7 days in New York, United States: What to see, eat and do. Full city guide
Imagine a city where skyscrapers stretch toward the heavens, neon lights illuminate the night, and dreams come true on every corner. Welcome to New York City, the beating heart of the United States and the world’s most famous metropolis. As you wander through its bustling streets, you’ll come across iconic landmarks like the Statue of Liberty, Times Square, and Central Park. Indulge your taste buds with culinary delights from around the globe, catch a Broadway show, and make friends with fellow dreamers in this city of possibilities. From the artsy vibe of SoHo to the high-end shops of Fifth Avenue, there’s something for everyone in the Big Apple. So pack your bags, friends, because New York City is waiting for you!
Things to Consider Before Arriving in New York City
Multicultural melting pot: New York City is home to a diverse mix of people from all corners of the globe, embracing various cultures in a harmonious blend.
Never-ending entertainment: From comedy clubs and Broadway shows to live music and art galleries, you’ll never run out of things to do in New York City.
Expensive living: With high rent prices and a generally high cost of living, New York City can put a dent in your wallet.
Perfect for: Culture enthusiasts, foodies, entertainment-seekers, and anyone who loves exploring urban jungles.
What to Bring With You
– Comfortable shoes: New York City is a walking city, so be prepared for long strolls through its streets.
– Weather-appropriate clothing: The city experiences all four seasons, so depending on when you visit, pack accordingly.
– An open mind: Embrace the diversity and immerse yourself in the different cultures that make New York City so unique.
Best Time of the Year to Visit
The ideal time to visit New York City is during the fall (September to November) when the weather is pleasant, and the stunning colors of the foliage create a magical atmosphere. Springtime (April to June) also offers favorable weather and fewer tourists than summer.
How to Get into the City
1. Air: New York City is served by three major airports – JFK International Airport, LaGuardia Airport, and Newark Liberty International Airport. Upon arrival, you can catch a taxi, Uber/Lyft, or public transportation to the city center.
2. Train: For those coming from nearby cities, Amtrak and regional trains connect to Penn Station, located in the heart of Manhattan.
3. Bus: Several bus companies, like Greyhound and Megabus, operate services to-and-from New York City’s Port Authority Bus Terminal, located in Midtown Manhattan.
7 day city guide trip to New York
Day 1: Exploring Manhattan
Start your day by grabbing a coffee and bagel from Ess-a-Bagel, then walk through Central Park and visit the Metropolitan Museum of Art. After a quick lunch at Joe’s Pizza, head down to the One World Observatory for a stunning view of the city. End your day with a Broadway show and dinner at Carmine’s.
Day 2: Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island
Take the ferry to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island, learning about the history of immigration to the US. Grab a hot dog from a street vendor for lunch, then explore the trendy neighborhood of SoHo for some shopping and people-watching. End the day with dinner at the Shake Shack in Madison Square Park.
Day 3: Brooklyn Adventure
Cross the Brooklyn Bridge on foot, taking in the stunning views of the skyline. Enjoy a slice of pizza at Grimaldi’s and visit the Brooklyn Museum for a dose of culture. In the evening, check out the live music scene at the Brooklyn Bowl.
Day 4: Upper East Side and Harlem
Visit the Guggenheim Museum for some contemporary art, then head up to Harlem for some soul food at Sylvia’s Restaurant. Walk off your meal with a stroll through Central Park, then catch a jazz show at the iconic Apollo Theater.
Day 5: Day trip to Philadelphia
Take a day trip to the historic city of Philadelphia, just a quick train ride away. Visit Independence Hall, the Liberty Bell, and the Philadelphia Museum of Art, and don’t forget to try a Philly cheesesteak for lunch.
Day 6: Exploring the Village
Visit the vibrant neighborhood of Greenwich Village and walk through Washington Square Park. Stop for a cup of coffee at the famous Cafe Reggio, then browse the boutiques on Bleecker Street. End the day with dinner at Carbone for some Italian-American fare.
Day 7: Museums and Central Park
Spend your last day in New York visiting some of the city’s many museums, such as the Museum of Modern Art and the Whitney Museum of American Art. In the evening, have a picnic in Central Park and catch a movie at the outdoor SummerStage.
How to continue your travel after you have spent 7 days in New York
If you’re looking to explore more of the East Coast, head north to Boston for some history and seafood. Alternatively, head south to Washington D.C. for some political and cultural sights. Both cities are easily accessible by train or bus, and offer plenty of attractions to keep you busy for a few more days.
