4-Days in New York.
From iconic landmarks like Central Park and Times Square to off-the-beaten-path gems nestled in the city’s diverse neighborhoods, I’ve curated a guide that’s perfect for solo travelers seeking unforgettable experiences.
In crafting this guide, I’ve drawn inspiration from several travel books (DK Eyewitness, and Lonely Planet), ChatGPT, communities from Reddit, and numerous travel blogs. I want this guide to be a one-stop resource for fellow travelers planning their next quarter-life crisis trip (I’m here with you, friend). I believe in the power of traveling as a way to broaden our horizons and deepen our understanding of the world around us. So this guide isn’t just about ticking off tourist attractions — it’s about immersing ourselves in the rich tapestry of New York City life. Each neighborhood and landmark has its own story to tell. Most importantly, this guide is a reflection of my own experiences and insights as a traveler.
So whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned New Yorker, I invite you to join me in this journey of discovery. Together, let’s dive into the heart of NYC’s vibrant culture, discover aesthetic coffee shops, indulge in flavorful eats, and explore captivating attractions — most importantly, let’s make memories that will last a lifetime. Welcome to the ultimate guide to the Big Apple — I’m so excited to finally share this guide with you!
Check out my vlog to view this guide in video format for an immersive journey!
Before You Go: What You Should Know
Weather: New York experiences four distinct seasons, with hot summers and cold winters. Pack accordingly, and check the weather forecast before your trip.
Safety: While New York is generally safe for tourists, it's essential to remain vigilant, especially in crowded areas like Times Square and subway stations.
Etiquette: New Yorkers are known for their fast-paced lifestyle, so be prepared for busy streets and sidewalks. Remember to tip in restaurants and for services like taxis and bellhops.
Where to Stay in NYC
New York City offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit every budget and preference:
Luxury Hotels: Treat yourself to a stay at iconic hotels like The Plaza or The St. Regis, offering luxurious amenities and impeccable service.
Boutique Hotels: Experience the charm of New York's neighborhoods by staying in boutique hotels like Moxy Hotel Times Square. Their location is extremely convenient, only 10 minutes away from Times Square, and you can easily access multiple bus and subway lines.
Check hotel prices here:
Getting there (transportation)
Upon arrival at one of New York's airports (JFK, LaGuardia, or Newark), several transportation options are available to reach your accommodation:
Airport Shuttles: Many hotels offer shuttle services to and from the airports, providing a convenient option for travelers.
Public Transportation: The New York City subway system is the most efficient way to navigate the city, with trains running 24/7. Consider purchasing an unlimited MetroCard in advance for unlimited rides. You can also use your Apple Wallet to pay for bus/subway tickets, then tap on the card reader. We did not rent a car for this trip and relied on buses, subways, and ferries to access all the locations published in this guide.
Walking: New York City is a pedestrian-friendly city, and many attractions are within walking distance of each other, especially in Manhattan. Wear comfortable shoes and explore the city on foot.
Neighborhoods in NYC
New York City is comprised of several diverse neighborhoods, each offering its unique attractions and atmosphere:
Greenwich Village: Wander through tree-lined streets filled with charming brownstones, boutique shops, and cozy cafes. Visit Washington Square Park, a hub of activity with street performers and chess players, and explore the vibrant LGBTQ+ scene along Christopher Street.
Chelsea: Dive into the contemporary art scene with a visit to the Chelsea galleries, showcasing works by both emerging and established artists. Stroll along the High Line, an elevated park built on a former railway line, and indulge in gourmet dining at Chelsea Market.
Brooklyn: Cross the iconic Brooklyn Bridge and discover the borough's diverse neighborhoods. Explore the hipster haven of Williamsburg, sample artisanal foods at Smorgasburg, and admire panoramic views of Manhattan from the Brooklyn Heights Promenade.
Upper East Side & Central Park: Experience the elegance of the Upper East Side, home to world-class museums like the Metropolitan Museum of Art and the Guggenheim. Escape the hustle and bustle with a stroll through Central Park, stopping to admire landmarks like Bethesda Terrace and Strawberry Fields.
Financial District: Immerse yourself in the heart of New York's financial center, where towering skyscrapers stand alongside historic landmarks. Visit the 9/11 Memorial & Museum to pay tribute to the lives lost, then explore the cobblestone streets of the South Street Seaport and Battery Park.
Soho: Explore one of New York's trendiest neighborhoods, known for its cast-iron architecture, upscale boutiques, and art galleries. Browse designer shops along Broadway, dine at chic cafes and bistros, and discover hidden gems in the bustling streets of this artistic enclave.
4-Day NYC Trip Itinerary
Day 1:
Morning: Kick-start your day like a true New Yorker with a trip to Ess-a-Bagel, where customers rave about their everything bagel with scallion cream cheese, a classic combination that hits all the right notes.
Lunch: Walk over to Konban NYC, and indulge in a taste of Japan. The Pork Loin Katsu, Tenderloin Katsu and Mackerel Sushi are fan favorites among Yelp reviewers, offering a flavorful journey for your taste buds.
Coffee: Head over to Intelligentsia Coffee inside the High Line Hotel in Chelsea, and sip on a perfectly crafted latte. I recommend trying the Black Cat Classic Espresso for a bold and rich coffee experience that will kickstart your day with a caffeine punch. Don’t forget to take pictures in front of the red double decker bus at the courtyard.
Attractions: Take a leisurely stroll along the High Line in Chelsea, and don’t forget to stop by The Vessel for stunning views and Instagram-worthy photo opportunities.
Dinner: Indulge in authentic Korean cuisin at Take 31, an intimate Korean restaurant tucked in Koreatown. My personal favourites include the Braised Pork Belly, Crispy Corn Pancake, and Tuna Kimchi Tuna Rice Balls.
Day 2
Morning: Enjoy a classic New York breakfast at Zucker’s Bagel, where the lox and cream cheese bagel is a must-try, offering a perfect balance of flavors and textures. They also offer gluten-free bagel options.
Attraction 1: Escape the hustle and bustle of the city and find solace in the serenity of Central Park. Take a leisurely stroll along the winding paths, admire the beauty of the Bow Bridge reflected in the shimmering waters of the lake, and revel in the timeless charm of this urban oasis
Attraction 2: Immerse yourself in art and culture at The MET, where visitors recommend checking out the Egyptian wing and European paintings for a journey through history and creativity.
Coffee: Relax and recharge at Cafe Leon Doré with a cup of their signature cappuccino freddo, praised by customers for its smooth and velvety texture that will satisfy any coffee lover's cravings
Attraction 3: Discover the vibrant energy of SOHO while shopping at Gentle Monster and COS, where fashion-forward locals and stylish tourists flock to find the latest trends and unique pieces.
Dinner: Experience old new york with steak and salmon at Steak Frites NYC, where Yelp reviewers recommend pairing it with a glass of red wine for the ultimate dining experience.
Day 3
Brunch: Warm up with a comforting bowl of soon tofu soup at BCD Tofu House, a popular spot known for its flavorful Korean cuisine and generous portions that will leave you feeling satisfied.
Attraction 1: Take the subway to head over to the Financial District and explore the architectural marvel of The Oculus, and don't forget to snap a few photos of its striking design and impressive scale to capture the essence of modern New York.
Coffee: Sip on freshly brewed coffee at Blue Bottle Coffee, where customers rave about the New Orleans iced coffee for its bold flavors and refreshing taste.
Attraction 2: Pay your respects at the 9/11 Memorial, and take a moment to reflect on the events of that tragic day while surrounded by the serene beauty of the memorial pools
Attraction 3: Experience the hustle and bustle of Wall Street, and be sure to snap a photo with the Fearless Girl statue for a quintessential New York City souvenir.
Attraction 4: Walk over to Pier 11 and take the ferry to cross the river to Brooklyn, and wander through the charming streets of DUMBO, savoring breathtaking views of Brooklyn Bridge and Manhattan skyline, and immerse yourself in the artistic vibe of Brooklyn.
Dinner: End your day with a delicious fine-dining michelin star experience at Joomak Banjum. This restaurant is owned by two pastry chefs, so their Korean-Chinese cuisine are executed with French technique and expressed through New York culture.
Day 4
Brunch: Start your day with a leisurely brunch at Bluestone Lane, a chic Australian cafe serving up classic dishes with a Down Under twist. Indulge in their signature avocado smash, piled high with creamy avocado, cherry tomatoes, and feta cheese, and washed down with a refreshing flat white.
Coffee: Take a moment to savor the simple pleasures of life at Ralph's Coffee, a cozy corner of the iconic Ralph Lauren flagship store. Sip on a perfectly brewed cup of coffee, and let the world melt away as you bask in the warmth of old-world elegance and charm.
Attraction 1: Experience the magic of winter at the Ice Rink at Rockefeller Center, where the twinkling lights and festive music create a holiday wonderland straight out of a fairy tale. Glide across the ice hand in hand with loved ones, and feel the joy of the season fill your heart with every graceful turn.
Attraction 2 : Rediscover the wonder of childhood at FAO Schwarz, where shelves are filled with treasures just waiting to be discovered. Lose yourself in a world of imagination and nostalgia, and let the magic of play transport you back to simpler times.
Outfits I wore in New York
Hey, I’m Jenn
Let’s travel the world together!
I travel to deepen my understanding of the world around me. I post my detailed traveling guides on this blog — I hope my guide acts as a one-stop resource for you to plan your next trip! Join me as I discover and document captivating attractions, delicious food, and aesthetic coffeeshops.
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