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The best days in New York - Detailed New York itineraries

HomeNew York Hop-On Hop-Off toursNew York itinerary

There is no city like NYC! With stunning skyscrapers, high-end hotels, amazing nightlife, and attractions, New York City is a popular destination for many reasons. Whether you’re visiting for one day or one week, exploring the city can be overwhelming. However, you can choose Hop-on Hop-off tours for easy access to the various places. Hop off anywhere you want and get back on to continue your exploration. If you’re planning a short trip to NYC, hop-on-hop-off tours with this New York itinerary are the perfect way to make the most of your visit and explore the city’s top sights.  

New York City itineraries for those who are on the clock

Below are some of the best things to do in New York for various travelers for 24, 48, and 72 hours. You can pick and choose the attractions on the Hop-on Hop-off route, but this itinerary will be incredibly helpful in tailoring it to your tastes and requirements.

  1. New York for families
  2. New York for couples
  3. New York on a budget
  4. New York for art lovers
  5. New York for foodies

New York for families

There are plenty of ways to explore New York City with family. You will find kid-friendly attractions, islands, parks, and museums to entertain and educate your kids and yourself in New York, whether a one-day trip or a longer one.

New York in one day

If you have only a day to explore New York City, here are some recommendations:

M&M's World

Enter the world of chocolates. Go through the three-story candy store full of colorful chocolate, thousands of milk, peanuts, and M&M’s specialties. Get personalized printed candies in just a few minutes.

  • Nearest Hop-on Hop-off stop: M&M’s World (Big Bus)
  • Average time to spend: 1 to 2 hours

Empire State Building

The Empire State Building is one of the most famous skyscrapers. The building offers sprawling views of Manhattan, an open-air 86th-floor observatory, an exhibit, and much more. 

  • Nearest Hop-on Hop-off stop: Empire State Building/ Koreatown (Big Bus)
  • Average time to spend: 2 to 4 hours
Book Empire State Building tickets

One World Observatory

Also known as Freedom Tower, the One World Observatory is the main building of the rebuilt World Trade Center complex. The One World Observatory is 1,776 feet long and features gorgeous views of Manhattan and beyond. 

  • Nearest Hop-on Hop-off stop: World Trade Center (Big Bus)
  • Average time to spend: 1 to 2 hours
Book One World Observatory tickets

The Edge

The Edge is known for being the highest outdoor sky deck in the Western Hemisphere. Set at 30 Hudson Yards, experience the once-a-lifetime opportunity of floating in the sky with 360-degree views.

  • Nearest Hop-on Hop-off stop: Hudson Yards (Big Bus)
  • Average time to spend: 1 to 2 hours
Book The Edge tickets

New York in two days

World Trade Center

Visit the World Trade Center which is built to pay homage to the victims of 9/11. Visit the 9/11 Memorial & Museum and watch over 10,000 artifacts on display. 

  • Nearest Hop-on Hop-off stop: World Trade Center (Big Bus)
  • Average time to spend: 2 to 3 hours
Book 9/11 Memorial & Museum tickets

Central Park Zoo

Featuring the city's most unique views, Central Park Zoo is home to animals, outdoor and indoor exhibits, and rides. Explore the zoo, spot snow leopards, and lions, and enjoy exhibits and rides. 

  • Nearest Hop-on Hop-off stop: Central Park Zoo (Big Bus)
  • Average time to spend: 1 to 2 hours

Statue of Liberty

Visit the Statue of Liberty for its beautiful park, islands, innovative museum, and the most iconic symbol of promise and possibility. Hop onto the ferry, get closer to Lady Liberty, and visit Ellis Island and the museum. 

  • Nearest Hop-on Hop-off stop: Statue of Liberty / Battery Park (Big Bus)
  • Average time to spend: 2 to 3 hours
Book Statue of Liberty tickets

Hudson Yards

Hudson Yards is known for offering a unique experience in NYC and is home to more than 100 shops and culinary experiences. Whether you’re traveling with family or friends, Hudson Yards is not to be missed.  

  • Nearest Hop-on Hop-off stop: Hudson Yards (Big Bus)
  • Average time to spend: 2 to 3 hours

New York in three days

Madame Tussauds

The Madame Tussauds is home to the world’s biggest celebrities. Get up close, meet, and pose for a selfie with your favorite celebrities from world leaders to movie stars and sports legends.  

  • Nearest Hop-on Hop-off stop: M&M's World / Bryant Park (Big Bus)
  • Average time to spend: 2 to 3 hours

Guggenheim Museum

Guggenheim Museum is one of eight Frank Lloyd Wright buildings and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The museum was opened in 1959, featuring thousands of artwork of Picasso, Kandinsky, and Pollock. 

  • Nearest Hop-on Hop-off stop: The Metropolitan Museum of Art (Big Bus)
  • Average time to spend: 1 to 2 hours
Book Guggenheim Museum tickets

Trinity Church

Trinity Church is a more than 300-year-old church and one of the nation's earliest places of worship. Visit the church for its history, prominent location, and architecture. 

  • Nearest Hop-on Hop-off stop: Statue of Liberty / Battery Park (Big Bus)
  • Average time to spend: 1 hour

New York for couples

From romantic cruises to breathtaking beaches, NYC has so much to offer for couples. If you’re visiting with your better half, here are a few things that you wouldn’t want to miss in New York City.

New York in one day

Top of The Rock

Top of the Rock features three indoor and outdoor observation decks for visitors. Admire the spectacular views of the city skyline and New York City. 

  • Nearest Hop-on Hop-off stop: Outside M&M's World (Big Bus)
  • Average time to spend: 1 to 2 hours
Book Top of The Rock tickets

One World Observatory

One World Observatory is situated at the top of the tallest building in NYC, One World Trade Center. The Observatory features an incredible SkyPod Elevator ride to the top and offers 360 views of New York City’s iconic sights and surroundings.

  • Nearest Hop-on Hop-off stop: World Trade Center (Big Bus)
  • Average time to spend: 1 to 2 hours
Book One World Observatory tickets

The Metropolitan Museum of Art

Embark on an art journey at the Metropolitan Museum which showcases over 5,000 years of art from all around the world. The museum is located at two iconic sites in New York City—The Met Fifth Avenue and The Met Cloisters. 

  • Nearest Hop-on Hop-off stop: The Metropolitan Museum of Art (Big Bus)
  • Average time to spend: 2 to 3 hours
Book The Metropolitan Museum of Art tickets

Central Park

Recreate your own 'F.R.I.E.N.D.S' moment in Central Park. Share sweet moments and unforgettable kisses on the picturesque Bow Bridge and channel Ross and Rachel's iconic romance. Relax in the heart of Manhattan, amidst the lush trees, gardens, several bridges, arches, lakes, and other attractions.    

  • Nearest Hop-on Hop-off stop: Central Park Zoo (Big Bus)
  • Average time to spend: 1 to 2 hours

New York in two days

Statue of Liberty

Take a romantic trip to Liberty Island, home to the Statue of Liberty. Visit the beautiful park, an innovative museum, and the Statue of Liberty.  

  • Nearest Hop-on Hop-off stop: Statue of Liberty / Battery Park (Big Bus)
  • Average time to spend: 2 to 3 hours
Book Statue of Liberty tickets

Brooklyn Bridge

Brooklyn Bridge offers mesmerizing views of Manhattan, Brooklyn, and the river. The nearby Brooklyn Bridge Park at the Brooklyn waterfront is not to be missed. 

  • Nearest Hop-on Hop-off stop: Brooklyn Bridge (Big Bus)
  • Average time to spend: 1 to 2 hours

High Line

Take a scenic walk through the park hand in hand with your better half. The greenery, art installations, and city views create a romantic atmosphere, offering a one-of-a-kind experience in NYC.  

  • Nearest Hop-on Hop-off stop: Chelsea Market (Big Bus)
  • Average time to spend: 1 to 2 hours

Times Square

One of the most popular areas of NYC, Times Square offers a wide range of things to see, do, eat, and shop. Enjoy the lively street performances, explore museums and galleries, and Broadway shows. 

  • Nearest Hop-on Hop-off stop: M&M's World (Big Bus)
  • Average time to spend: 1 to 2 hours

New York in three days

Empire State Building

Plan a visit to the iconic Empire State Building, featuring sprawling views of Manhattan and the ocean. Soaring 1,454 feet, the open-air 86th-floor observatory offers panoramic views of NYC. 

  • Nearest Hop-on Hop-off stop: Empire State Building / Koreatown (Big Bus)
  • Average time to spend: 1 to 2 hours
Book Empire State Building tickets

Brooklyn Botanical Garden

Take a visit to the Botanical Garden, covering a 52-acre garden. The garden is home to thousands of plants and trees and a Japanese garden. Enjoy the native flora, a wood covered in bluebells, and a rose garden. 

  • Nearest Hop-on Hop-off stop: Brooklyn Bridge, Park Row & Beekman St (Big Bus)
  • Average time to spend: 2 to 3 hours

Broadway

Plan a unique night with your partner at Broadway. Enjoy a musical theater and live show performed by actors, musicians, and performers. Experience the theater life for 90 minutes or 2 hours. 

  • Nearest Hop-on Hop-off stop: M&M's World (Big Bus)
  • Average time to spend: 1 to 2 hours
Book Broadway tickets

Battery Park

Soak in the views of the beautiful Battery Park with your better half. The serene park offers gardens, waterfront views, and ferry access to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. Hop into the romantic ferry ride, admire the views, and end the day with cherished memories. 

  • Nearest Hop-on Hop-off stop: Statue of Liberty / Battery Park (Big Bus)
  • Average time to spend: 1 to 2 hours

New York on a budget

If you’re limited on budget and looking for the most affordable destination, here are some places that you must add to your NYC itinerary. From beaches to parks, there are an array of budget-friendly attractions and activities to do in New York City.

New York in one day

Hope Sculpture

Located in the middle of New York City's Times Square, the Hope Sculpture is a symbol of optimism. Capture an Insta-worthy snap in front of Hope Sculpture reflecting the power of hope in the world. Build by the artist Robert Indiana, a pop art artist - this is a must-visit in NYC for budget travelers. 

  • Nearest Hop-on Hop-off stop: Hope Sculpture (Big Bus)
  • Average time to spend: 1 to 2 hours

Bryant Park

Bryant Park is the perfect destination for budget travelers. Located in the heart of Manhattan, the park features gardens, monuments, eateries, bars, concerts, and free summer outdoor movie nights. The park also features New York City's only free admission ice skating rink.

  • Nearest Hop-on Hop-off stop: Bryant Park (Big Bus)
  • Average time to spend: 2 to 3 hours

Empire State Building

A visit to NYC is incomplete without taking a visit to the Empire State Building. The open-air 86th-floor observatory features breathtaking views of Manhattan and the ocean which are not to be missed. You will require a small admission fee to visit the observatory, the views are worth it.

  • Nearest Hop-on Hop-off stop: Empire State Building / Korea Town (Big Bus)
  • Average time to spend:  1 to 2 hours
Book now

Brooklyn Bridge

The Brooklyn Bridge is one of the must-visit places in NYC with family. The Brooklyn Bridge is 3,460 feet long and was once the longest suspension bridge in the world. You can enjoy the panoramic views from the bridge.

  • Nearest Hop-on Hop-off stop: Brooklyn Bridge (Big Bus)
  • Average time to spend:  1 to 2 hours

Lincoln Center

Home to free performances, art installations, and cultural events—-Lincoln Center is a must-visit place for budget travelers. The center features iconic modernist architecture, film screenings, lectures, festivals, and educational programs for visitors.

  • Nearest Hop-on Hop-off stop:  Columbus Circle (Big Bus)
  • Average time to spend:  1 to 2 hours

New York in two days

9/11 Memorial Museum

The 9/11 Museum was built to pay homage to remember and honor the 2,983 people who were killed in the attacks of 9/11. Visit the museum to explore the artifacts, images, personal stories, and interactive technology. 

  • Nearest Hop-on Hop-off stop: World Trade Center (Big Bus)
  • Average time to spend: 2 to 3 hours
Book 9/11 Memorial Museum tickets

World Trade Center

World Trade Center is known for being the highest building in New York City. If you’re a Spiderman fan, you are in for a treat. Take a picture in front of the famous building where Spider-Man hung upside down to kiss Mary Jane.  

  • Nearest Hop-on Hop-off stop: World Trade Center (Big Bus)
  • Average time to spend: 1 to 2 hours

St. Patrick's Cathedral

The St. Patrick's Cathedral is a neo-Gothic Catholic masterpiece that can accommodate up to 2400 people. The cathedral is known for its magnificent sculptures and architecture.

  • Nearest Hop-on Hop-off stop: Midtown East (Big Bus)
  • Average time to spend: 1 to 2 hours
Book St. Patrick's Cathedral tickets

Times Square

Visit the famous Times Square filled with huge television screens. This place is the hub of the Broadway Theater District and the world's entertainment industry. Click the Insta-worthy snaps!

  • Nearest Hop-on Hop-off stop: M&M's World (Big Bus)
  • Average time to spend: 1 to 2 hours

New York in three days

The Metropolitan Museum of Art

The museum features over 5,000 years of art from around the world. The museum was founded in 1870 and features paintings, sculptures, collections of musical instruments, costumes, and accessories.  

  • Nearest Hop-on Hop-off stop: The Metropolitan Museum of Art (Big Bus)
  • Average time to spend: 2 to 3 hour
Book The Metropolitan Museum of Art tickets

Central Park

Central Park attracts thousands of visitors for its green meadows, sprawling waters, gardens, and unique bridges. The park also hosts music performances, educational facilities, classical architecture, and more. 

  • Nearest Hop-on Hop-off stop: Central Park Zoo (Big Bus)
  • Average time to spend: 1 to 2 hours

Chinatown

If you’re looking for bargain shopping and eating, this is the place to be at. Explore the vibrant world of Chinese immigrants showcasing their culture, food, and sightseeing. This is the perfect place to buy gifts for friends and family. 

  • Nearest Hop-on Hop-off stop: Chinatown / Little Italy (Big Bus)
  • Average time to spend: 2 to 3 hours

Chelsea Market

Chelsea Market is the hub of food markets, bookshops, clubs, clothing, and art shops. The market is filled with unique shopping and dining spots making it a must-visit for shopaholics and foodies. 

  • Nearest Hop-on Hop-off stop: Chelsea Market (Big Bus)
  • Average time to spend: 1 to 2 hours

New York for art lovers 

New York in one day

SoHo

Enter this vibrant neighborhood that will captivate you with its historic architecture, renowned art galleries, trendy boutiques, shopping experiences, and diverse dining options. SoHo is heaven for everyone, whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or a shopaholic. 

  • Nearest Hop-on Hop-off stop: SoHo (Big Bus)
  • Average time to spend: 2 to 3 hours

The Met Museum

The Metropolitan Museum of Art is a haven for history lovers, showcasing a stunning collection of art from around the world spanning 5,000 years. The museum features collection areas, exhibitions, and shops for visitors. 

  • Nearest Hop-on Hop-off stop: The Metropolitan Museum of Art (Big Bus)
  • Average time to spend: 2 to 3 hours

The American Museum of Natural History

The history museum is known for housing 45 permanent exhibition halls, a planetarium, and a library. The museum showcases about 32 million specimens of plants, animals, fungi, fossils, minerals, rocks, and human cultural artifacts. 

  • Nearest Hop-on Hop-off stop: The Metropolitan Museum of Art (Big Bus)
  • Average time to spend: 2 to 3 hours

New York in two days

Grand Central Terminal

Take a tour through the century-old lanes and the world’s largest train station. Go through the Grand Central Terminal, explore secret passageways, peek into the history, and admire the architecture. 

  • Nearest Hop-on Hop-off stop: Midtown East (Big Bus)
  • Average time to spend: 1 to 2 hours

9/11 Memorial & Museum

Visit the 9/11 museum, built to pay tribute to the people who lost their lives on that unfortunate day. You will find multimedia displays detailing the history of the attack and its aftermath, personal artifacts, and profiles of the victims here.

  • Nearest Hop-on Hop-off stop: World Trade Center (Big Bus)
  • Average time to spend: 2 to 3 hours
Book 9/11 Memorial & Museum tickets

Intrepid Museum

Enter a world where you can admire the American military and maritime history. The museum features the world's first space shuttle, nuclear weapons-carrying submarine, aircraft, and more.

  • Nearest Hop-on Hop-off stop: Circle Line Sightseeing (Big Bus)
  • Average time to spend: 2 to 3 hours
Book Intrepid Museum tickets

El Museo

El Museo Museum is a source of absolute titillation for every art and history lover. Filled with European paintings, El Museo was founded in 1969 in a quaint corner of NYC. 

  • Nearest Hop-on Hop-off stop: Central Park (Big Bus)
  • Average time to spend: 1 to 2 hours

New York in three days

Union Square

Explore the vibrant world of urban experience with its bustling atmosphere, diverse cultural events, and rich historical significance. Watch local farmers showcase fresh produce and artisanal goods. The place is also a hub for street performers, community gatherings, shops, cozy cafes, and restaurants, making it an ideal spot for foodies. 

  • Nearest Hop-on Hop-off stop: Flatiron District (Big Bus)
  • Average time to spend: 2 to 3 hours

Whitney Museum

Explore the history of American Art from the 20th and 21st centuries. Take a walk through a collection of over 21,000 paintings, sculptures, drawings, and more. 

  • Nearest Hop-on Hop-off stop: Chelsea Market (Big Bus)
  • Average time to spend: 1 to 2 hours

Carnegie Hall

Carnegie Hall is a historic landmark dating back to the 1890s. The hall is known for hosting over 50,000 events and world records. The place is ideal for history buffs and music lovers. 

  • Nearest Hop-on Hop-off stop: Carnegie Hall (Big Bus)
  • Average time to spend: 1 hour

New York for foodies

If you’re a food lover, you are in for a treat. Explore and taste the diverse cuisines from all over the world. From Michelin-starred restaurants to bustling food trucks, New York promises a delightful journey of flavors.


New York in one day

Chelsea Market

An ideal place for food lovers and people who love shopping, Chelsea Market is not to be missed—the market is filled with food markets, clothing, and art shops. Try the famous Friedman's to enjoy a brunch in a contemporary vibrant setting.

  • Nearest Hop-on Hop-off stop: Chelsea Market (Big Bus)
  • Average time to spend: 1 to 2 hours

Chinatown / Little Italy

Chinatown is heaven for all shopaholics and foodie travelers. The picturesque restaurants, shops, and immigrants showcasing their culture make this place a must-visit in NYC. Established in 1920, visit Nom Wah Tea Parlor for its delectable dumplings, dim sum, and Chinese delights. 

  • Nearest Hop-on Hop-off stop: Chinatown / Little Italy (Big Bus)
  • Average time to spend: 2 to 3 hours

Brunch at Sarabeth’s

A stroll through the streets of the Big Apple city is incomplete without a bite of the 200-year-old recipe of Orange Apricot Marmalade! Follow it up with a rejuvenating stroll through Central Park nearby. 

  • Nearest Hop-on Hop-off stop: Central Park Zoo (Big Bus)
  • Average time to spend: 1 hour

Greenwich Village

The artist’s haven with its Jazz Clubs, off-broadway theaters, and the famed Washington Park, Greenwich Village came to life in the 1960s. Do not miss out on taking a bite of the falafel from Mamoun’s while soaking up the chaos of Washington Square Park!

  • Nearest Hop-on Hop-off stop: SoHo (Big Bus)
  • Average time to spend: 2 to 3 hours

New York in two days

Breakfast at Clinton Street Baking Company & Restaurant

Indulge in a country-styled breakfast sourced locally at the acclaimed foodie’s haven, the Clinton Street Baking Co. and Restaurant. Opened in 2001, the restaurant offers a delectable delight inspired by the flavors of South America, Coastal New England, and more, leaving you desperately yearning for more!

  • Nearest Hop-on Hop-off stop: SoHo (Big Bus)
  • Average time to spend: 2 hours

Lunch at Russ and Daughters

Grab a morsel of perfect Caviar at one of the top 10 restaurants in NYC. Head over to the Russ and Daughters in Brooklyn. Spend some quiet while at the McNally Jackson Books.

  • Nearest Hop-on Hop-off stop: Chinatown (Big Bus)
  • Average time to spend: 1 to 2 hours

Brooklyn

One of the five boroughs of New York City, Brooklyn is where the spirit of NYC truly comes alive! Grab a bite of some of the best New York Pizza from Grimaldi’s Pizzeria and take a walk across the all-famous Brooklyn Bridge or explore Coney Island.

  • Nearest Hop-on Hop-off stop: Brooklyn Bridge (Big Bus)
  • Average time to spend: 1 to 2 hours

Dessert at Magnolia Bakery

Home to the World’s Best Banana Pudding! Treat yourself to the famous banana pudding or a freshly baked cupcake that dates its roots back to 1996. You can take a food tour in Greenwich Village to discover hidden gems and taste traditional Italian pastries and cannolis.

  • Nearest Hop-on Hop-off stop: Chinatown (Big Bus)
  • Average time to spend: 1 hour

New York in three days

The Grey Dog

Home to the World’s Best Banana Pudding! Treat yourself to the famous banana pudding or a freshly baked cupcake that dates its roots back to 1996. You can take a food tour in Greenwich Village to discover hidden gems and taste traditional Italian pastries and cannolis.

  • Nearest Hop-on Hop-off stop: Flatiron District (Big Bus)
  • Average time to spend:  1 to 2 hours

The Union Square

The Union Square of NYC with its historic intersection, marks the coming together of some of the most loved thoroughfares of the city. Take a leisurely walk to soak in the sights and sounds while dropping in at the Union Square Café nearby. 

  • Nearest Hop-on Hop-off stop: Flatiron District (Big Bus)
  • Average time to spend:  1 to 2 hours

Lunch at Shake Shack

Explore the lunch experience at the Shake Shack, known for building a sense of community over the decades. Let your afternoons blend in with the chaos that defines the Big Apple city with their gourmet burgers, crinkle fries, and milkshakes to win your heart. 

  • Nearest Hop-on Hop-off stop: Bryant Park (Big Bus)
  • Average time to spend:  30 minutes to 1 hour

Katz's Delicatessen

Welcome to Katz's Delicatessen, one of the oldest deli in New York. Renowned for its ‘mile-high’ sandwiches and classic delis, it has been an integral part of the NYC culture since 1888. Located near Houston Street, visit this deli and also check out the Hester Street Fair. 

  • Nearest Hop-on Hop-off stop: SoHo (Big Bus)
  • Average time to spend:  1 to 2 hours

Dessert at Levain Bakery

No food sojourn is complete without the iconic ‘Big Chocolate Chip Walnut Cookie’ of the Levain Bakery that has continued to melt hearts since 1995. So visit the famed ‘cookie spot’ of New Yorkers before exploring the renowned American Museum of Natural History. 

  • Nearest Hop-on Hop-off stop: Columbus Circle (Big Bus)
  • Average time to spend:  2 to 3 hours