New York a novembre

Four Days in New York

Planning to spend four days in New York City and wondering whether it’s enough time to see everything? One of the world’s most intense and invigorating, energetic, and ever-changing cities in the world, the sprawling metropolis has so much to offer, you could live there for a year without seeing and experiencing everything.

However, four days in New York is enough to see all the top attractions and get a feel for the city. While you’ll have your work cut out for you and will end up walking a good few miles, it’s just enough time for you to take a bite out of the Big Apple and fall in love.

So, what to see and where to go? This four-day itinerary will guide you through the top sights and food spots you simply can’t miss on a visit to New York City.

Top Tips for First-Time Visitors to New York City

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With just four days in New York, time is of the essence, so here are a few tips to help make the most of your stay.

  • Comfortable shoes are essential!

New York City is best explored on foot, and you’ll spend a lot of time walking around. It’s essential to bring a pair of comfortable walking shoes for your four-day adventure.

  • Expect long lines at popular places

New York City is one of the most visited cities in the world and is busy year-round. Prepare for long lines at the top attractions.

  • Get the 7-Day Unlimited Ride Metro Card

New York City has an outstanding public transportation system that provides a quick way of getting around the city. The 7-Day Unlimited Ride Metro Card is worthwhile if you plan on using the subway. For only $33 you’ll have unlimited access to the metro for seven days.

Now that you’re prepped, let’s hit the streets!

Four-Day Itinerary for New York City

Day 1

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Morning in Central Park

Your first stop on your Big Apple adventure must be Central Park. One of New York’s most recognized attributes, Central Park is the lush green heart of Manhattan. Designed by the award-winning landscape architect team, Frederick Law Olmsted and Calvert Vaux, the park spans 843 acres and is home to everything from a lake to an ice-skating rink.

You could spend the entire day in the park and not see everything, so why not use your pass to rent a bike from Central Park Full Day Bike Rental on two wheels!

Visit the most popular attractions in the park like the picturesque Loeb Boathouse, the historic Belvedere Castle, Sheep's Meadow, and the rolling Strawberry Fields.

When you’re done exploring, head to the Metropolitan Museum of Art, one of New York’s top museums. Founded in 1870, the MET is home to over two million pieces of art spanning 5,000 years. Don’t miss Monet’s Bridge over a Pond of Water Lilies and Vincent van Gogh’s Self Portrait with a Straw Hat.

If you prefer archeology over art, head to the American Museum of Natural History on the border of Central Park in the Upper West Side. Use your pass to gain access to the museum and marvel at the incredible collection of natural wonders. Don’t miss the life-size model of a 94-foot blue whale in the Hall of Ocean Life.

Afternoon in Midtown

After lunch, it’s time for a bit of retail therapy on one of the best shopping streets in the world! Head down Fifth Avenue to browse the stunning window displays of the top luxury brands in the world and do some shopping if your credit card will allow it.

Make a stop at the Saint Patrick’s Cathedral along the way. Hailed as one of the most beautiful churches in the world, the Neo-Gothic style cathedral took 21 years to complete due to the Civil War. Use your pass to enjoy express entry into the cathedral where you can wander around in awe of the breathtaking architecture.

Evening in Times Square

Times Square is one of New York’s most visited attractions and can’t be missed during your NYC sojourn. Brace yourself for the massive screens and neon lights lighting up the night sky. Be prepared for crowds – Times Square heaves with tourists, especially at night, but it’s an experience of a lifetime that will leave lasting memories.

Another must-do when in New York is to catch a Broadway Show if you can afford it. Broadway Shows are an integral part of New York and even if you’re not the greatest theater fan, watching a show like The Lion King or Wicked on Broadway is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Use your pass to enjoy a Broadway and Time Square Walking Tour. Walk in the footsteps of stars as you visit legendary Broadway locations like the Edison Hotel and Shubert Alley.

Day 2

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Morning in Greenwich Village

When in New York, do as New Yorkers do and grab a bagel for breakfast. You’ll find plenty of bakeries and cafés selling mouthwatering versions – try salmon and cream cheese if you really want to be a New Yorker.

The best way to explore this charming neighborhood is on a walking tour. Use your pass to join a Greenwich Village Walking Tour and enjoy a two-hour guided tour of the ‘birthplace of American Counter-Culture.’

Visit Washington Square Park, the symbolic heart of Greenwich Village and a gathering place for avant-garde artists and students from NYU. Eat your bagel on the steps of the fountain and watch street art performers and musicians ply their trade.

Discover film locations (Friends and Mozart in the Jungle) and learn about the area's famous residents like Edgar Allan Poe and John Wilkes Booth. Visit the birthplace of the LGBTQ+ Movement in America, the Stonewall Inn.

Afternoon in Soho, Little Italy, and Chinatown

Your next stop is the neighboring areas of SoHo (South of Houston Street), Little Italy, and Chinatown. Save some time by using your pass to enjoy a SoHo, Little Italy & Chinatown Walking Tour and dive right into the heart of Manhattan.

Enjoythe ritzy shops and their museum-worthy window displays in SoHo and shop until you drop. Venture into Little Italy and be prepared to salivate as you wander around NYC’s tastiest neighborhood. Discover the rich history of Chinatown and explore its secret underground tunnels.

Evening in Chelsea

As the sun begins to set , head to the unique High Line Park to take in some spectacular city views. The once-disused railroad track was converted into a verdant floating garden that now passes through some of New York City's most historic neighborhoods.

Wander along the elevated park on a High Line, Chelsea & Meatpacking District Walking Tour with your pass. Take in the art installations and admire some of New York's most famous buildings, including the Empire State Building and Frank Gehry’s IAC Building.

When you’re done walking the High Line, pop into Chelsea Market for something to eat. The world-famous food hall is home to a mix of restaurants and shops selling an array of mouthwatering gourmet goodies.

Day 3

Morning at the 9/11 Memorial and Museum and One World Trade Center

Visiting New York City without spending a few hours in the 9/11 Memorial and Museum would be remiss.

Based next to the overwhelming might of the monolithic One World Trade Center, the museum details the horrific events that took place on that day and honors the almost 3,000 victims of these attacks and all those who risked their lives to save others. Use your pass to gain entrance to the museum and be prepared for a deeply moving and reflective experience.

Join a 9/11 Museum Workshop with your pass where you’ll learn about the nine-month recovery period after the events of 9/11 and the people involved.

Don’t miss the never-ending waterfall that cascades into twin reflecting pools where the Twin Towers once stood. The names of victims of both the 1993 and 2001 attacks are engraved in stone around the waterfall.

Afternoon in Wall Street and Brooklyn

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As you wander towards Wall Street and the Financial District, be sure to check out the architecturally significant and rather curious design of the Oculus Mall, which is like the spine of a long-forgotten fish.

Walk around the Financial District and see the iconic New York Stock Exchange. Have a photo taken with the famous Charging Bull and admire the historic Trinity Church.

Next stop, the famous Brooklyn Bridge and the charming neighborhood of DUMBO. Connecting Manhattan to Brooklyn, the Brooklyn Bridge is one of the oldest bridges in the country and one of New York’s most iconic attractions.

A lovely way to explore this area is on a Brooklyn Bridge and DUMBO Walking Tour. Stroll across the architectural icon and be sure to take tons of photos – it’s one of the most photographed landmarks in NYC. Learn the history of the bridge from your guide as you soak up spectacular views of the Manhattan skyline.

Stroll around the trendy Brooklyn neighborhood called DUMBO which is famous for its art galleries, high-end boutiques, and scenic waterfront views. This is the place for out-of-this-world New York pizza, so find a spot for dinner!

Day 4

Morning at in the Diamond District

Your first stop today should be the beautiful Grand Central Station. Take in the breathtaking design and the grandeur of the celestial ceiling of the central terminal. Grab breakfast and a coffee in the food hall downstairs.

A short walk from Grand Central Station is the Museum of Modern Art. Fondly known as MoMA, the striking Yoshio Taniguchi-designed building houses one of the most significant collections of modern art in the world, with works by world-renowned, such as Van Gogh, Picasso, Cézanne, Magritte, Pollock, Matisse, and Warhol.

Use your pass for free access to the Museum of Modern Art and spend the morning marveling at masterpieces.

Afternoon at the Empire State Building

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You can’t leave New York without visiting the Empire State Building. This world-renowned building is a short walk from Bryant Park and is the perfect place to see the sunset over Manhattan.

Built during The Great Depression, Empire State Building is a glorious example of Art Deco design with a magnificent lobby boasting 24-karat gold and aluminum leaf ceiling murals. Use your pass to gain access to the Empire State Building and head up to the 86th floor to get a 360-degree panoramic view of the city.

Take in the city from the observatory deck and see Connecticut and Pennsylvania more than 80 miles away on a clear day or watch the city lights begin to twinkle as it gets darker.

Evening at Madison Square Garden

Spend your last evening in New York watching a Knicks basketball game or the New York Rangers on the ice at Madison Square Garden. The 20,000-seat venue in the heart of Herald Square witnessed Marilyn singing ‘Happy Birthday’ to JFK and hosted two Ali-Frazier fights.

If you aren’t lucky enough to get tickets, you’ll find plenty of top-notch restaurants in and around the square for your last NYC dinner.

Alex Birungi
Go City Travel Expert

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Empire State Building vs The Shard - Comparing the Major Differences

World travelers often wonder how the globe’s most famous observation decks stack up against one another. While there are some obvious differences, when it gets down to the tiny details it can be a difficult task to sort out when the attractions are in different countries. If you’re trying to compare the Empire State Building and the Shard, we’ve put together a handy guide to help you consider which attraction appeals to you the most. Visit one, or visit them both on different trips. Both observation decks are located at significant heights above street level, and both have plenty to offer adventurers looking for an exciting view of the city below. Each is also located in a building of cultural significance. However, there are many differences between the two, the most basic of which is their location: the Empire State Building is located in New York City and the Shard is located in London. For your convenience, we’ve put together a list of the more nuanced differences and similarities between the two attractions, arranged by: What’s Included with General Admission Location Scenic Views Building History Tips for Visiting Thinking about Visiting the Empire State Building or The Shard? Save up to 50% on admission to the Empire State Building plus your choice of other popular New York attractions with the New York City Explorer Pass. Tickets to The Shard are separately priced and are not included with the New York City Explorer Pass. Another fun alternative in New York City the Top of the Rock, which also provides stunning aerial views of the city and is also available on the New York City Explorer Pass. Or, if your trip takes you to London, a great alternative is the Coca-Cola London Eye, a famous observation wheel that’s an iconic part of the London skyline. What’s Included with General Admission Both attractions include admission to the relevant observation decks, as well as informative exhibits and guides. Location Empire State Building: Located in Midtown Manhattan by Penn Station, Grand Central Terminal, and the famed NYC Macy’s. The Shard: Located in Southwark, London, near the iconic Tower of London, Tower Bridge, and the HMS Belfast. Comparing the Scenic Views Each observation deck offers unique views of their respective cities, and both are located at a significance height above ground level. The Empire State Building offers panoramic views of Midtown Manhattan, as far north as Central Park, and as far south as the Statue of Liberty. The Empire State Building offers open-air and enclosed observation decks. The Shard offers excellent views of the Thames, the Tower of London, and the London Bridge, as well as London riverfront. You can also see as far as 40 miles in any direction on a clear day. The Shard also has both open-air and enclosed observation decks. Building History The Empire State Building In 1931, the Empire State Building came into the world as a symbol of hope in a dark time. Designed and executed by the architecture firm Shreve, Lamb & Harmon Associates, this iconic NYC landmark was among the most beautiful of all Art Deco buildings in the city. Designed to honor American industrial strengths and capitalist progress, the Empire State Building still stands today as a monument to commerce. It was awarded the distinction of being classified as one of the seven greatest architectural achievements in the United States in 1955, and its reputation has only grown since. Today the building is home to a variety of companies – nearly 1,000 all told (including restaurants and bars that are worth a quick trip to snag a cocktail and some photos) – as well as the observation deck and historical exhibits. It is located on Fifth Avenue between 33rd and 34th Streets. The Shard The Shard is a much newer construction, begun in 2009 and opened to the public in July of 2012. The View from the Shard (the official name of the observation deck) opened in February of 2013. It was designed by iconic Italian architect Renzo Piano (who is also known for his work on the Art Institute of Chicago and the Whitney Museum of Art in NYC). Piano intended for the Shard to evoke the feeling of emerging from the Thames, so the design is very modern and sleek. The Shard was part of the redevelopment of the then very industrial Southwark neighborhood of London, in an effort to revamp the area and bring new business to the city. Today it is home to a number of businesses, including restaurants and a hotel on the ground floor (as well as the luxurious Shangri-La Hotel located on floors 34-52). There are also residential floors above the hotel but below the observation deck. Tips for Visiting The Empire State Building and The Shard In Summary (The Biggest Differences) Each of these attractions is incredibly popular with tourists, but both offer different views and cultural perspectives. The Empire State Building is an iconic historic structure with a long legacy of standing tall and proud in NYC’s skyline. It also features gorgeous Art Deco décor and a variety of special exhibits on multiple floors. The Shard is much newer, but also boasts a beautiful, striking design – by none other than Renzo Piano. The Empire State Building offers views in Midtown Manhattan, where you can see as far north as Central Park and as far south as the Statue of Liberty and New Jersey. The Shard offers views along the Thames waterfront, including Big Ben, the Tower of London, Tower Bridge, the London Eye, and much more. Visit the Empire State Building and Save on Admission Remember to visit the Big Apple with the New York City Explorer Pass! You’ll get admission to the Empire State Building plus tickets to dozens of other top attractions in the city, like the American Museum of Natural History, a Statue of Liberty Ferry, the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Top of the Rock, and many more. Save up to 50% on combined admission versus paying at the gate with the New York City Explorer Pass – it’s a smart choice for savvy travelers! If you are planning your trip to London rather than NYC, consider picking up a London Explorer Pass. You can save up to 40% on the city’s top attractions, including another great observation option in the Coca-Cola London Eye.
Katie Sagal
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Tips for Visiting the Statue of Liberty – Discount Tickets & More

The Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island are among the most iconic landmarks in all of New York. Both represent an important period in the history of immigration in this country. They reflect the long-held ideal of America as a safe haven for all who seek liberty and freedom. The Statue of Liberty is located on Liberty Island in New York Harbor. Ellis Island was once the home of the primary immigration center in the United States. Today, it is a fascinating museum. Head to both of these top attractions on a fun ferry ride and spend an educational afternoon with the whole family. Check out our helpful guide for visiting the both the Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island Immigration Museum, packed full of ways to save on admission, tips for visiting, other nearby attractions, and much more. Looking for Discount Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island Ferry Tickets? We’ve got you covered - ferry tickets for the Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island are available with the below money saving options, so you can choose the attraction pass that's right for you: The below options include a ferry ticket, audio tours, and access to the grounds of both Liberty Island and Ellis Island. 1. Explorer Pass - Choose as you go. Includes admission of up to 10 attractions. 2. Build Your Own Pass - Select the attractions you want to visit prior to visiting. See all available passes, attractions & prices – Learn more. Please note: tickets to access the Pedestal and Crown of the Statue of Liberty are not included with the Explorer Pass. If you wish add access to those parts of the statue, you will need book Crown Reserve tickets and/or Pedestal Reserve tickets separately. Make reservations as soon as possible as space is limited and tours often sell out months in advance. Top Statue of Liberty Facts Tips for Your Upcoming Visit You may use either two of the ferry departure points for your trip. Battery Park in New York - departs every 25 minutes, 8:30am - 4:00pm (last departure at 3:30pm) Liberty State Park in New Jersey - depearts every 40 minutes, 8:30am - 4:00pm (last departure at 3:30pm) If time is a concern, then we strongly encourage using the Liberty State Park, New Jersey location for faster processing, boarding, convenient access and ample parking. Save on Statue of Liberty Ferry Tickets with the New York City Explorer Pass®. If visiting using an Explorer Pass, you must pick up your ferry boarding pass before entering the security line. All visitors are required to pass through a mandatory airport grade security screening, so be prepared for a long wait. We suggest arriving early in the morning. Allow at least 2 hours to visit one island and 4 hours to visit both islands. Bring your camera. You'll want to take pictures of the Statue of Liberty from the shore, from the ferry, and from up close on Liberty Island. A limited number of wheelchairs are available for use on a first-come, first-served basis for no fee from the National Park Service. Visiting the Pedestal or Crown of the Statue of Liberty requires a reservation. Book well ahead to ensure availability the day you want to visit. When is the best time to visit the Statue of Liberty? What should I bring to The Statue of Liberty? There are a number of limitations on what is permitted on either island, so it’s best not to bring much if you want to avoid paying for a locker. You won't be permitted to bring large bags, and backpacks and strollers are not allowed at the Pedestal and Crown areas of the Statue. You'll have to put everything except your camera and medication inside a locker beforehand. Some things you you plan to bring include: Camera - You'll take a lot of photos trying to capture the statue from every angle. Don't forget to take photos of the NYC skyline, too. Money for souvenirs Comfortable shoes - Most of the visit will be on your feet. The boat deck can be slippery, so wear shoes with good traction. If you're visiting the pedestal or crown, you'll need shoes that are safe for climbing stairs. On Ellis Island, the Hard Hat Tour prohibits sandals or open-toed shoes. Dress for the weather - Much of the visit is outdoors, so come prepared with the layers you need to stay warm. Sunscreen - You will likely be waiting in long lines outside. What are things to do at Liberty Island? Self-Guided Audio Tours Self-guided audio tours are included with every ticket for both the Statue of Liberty National Monument and the Ellis Island Immigration Museum, with special tours for children and those with vision impairments. The Audio Tours are available in different languages including Arabic, English, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Mandarin, Russian and Spanish. If you'd like to be able to ask questions while you explore, there are ranger-led tours at both islands as well. The Pedestal of the Statue of Liberty A Pedestal Tour includes access inside the Statue of Liberty Pedestal and the Statue of Liberty Museum. The lowest part of the Statue of Liberty, just above the lobby, the Pedestal forms the base of the Statue. Be sure to visit the Statue of Liberty Museum on the second floor to learn all about the history and heritage of the world’s most famous statue. The pedestal's observation deck offers panoramic views of the harbor. The pedestal is partially wheelchair accessible, with elevator access part of the way up. There are 215 steps to the top of the pedestal for those who choose to climb. The museum presents the history of how France and the United States cooperated to erect the statue and exhibits the original torch. Remember: Statue of Liberty Pedestal tickets are separately ticketed. The Crown of the Statue of Liberty The Torch Exhibit Featuring the original torch (which was actually replaced in the 1980s) and a number of drawings, and photographs depicting this iconic symbol of freedom, this exhibit is a good replacement for not being able to ascend to the torch itself. Things to Do at Ellis Island Ellis Island Immigration Museum With nearly 400,000 artifacts and over 1 million archival records, the Ellis Island Immigration Museum is an expansive collection of historical records pertaining to the millions of immigrants who passed through this island on their way to a better life. Search the American Family Immigration History Center’s databases in person at Ellis Island or online before you go. The museum's exhibit "Journeys: The Peopling of America" presents the immigration experience before Ellis Island opened and after it closed, but the museum emphasizes the arrivals process experienced by immigrants to the United States at Ellis Island. Begin in the Baggage Room, where immigrants checked their bags after disembarking their ships. Upstairs, the Registry Room and the Hearing Room are where immigrants were examined before being granted entry to the United States. The Dormitory Rooms, where travelers who were briefly detained stayed overnight, host special exhibits. Peopling of America Center This is a must-see on your trip to Ellis Island. This exhibit space tells the story of immigration to America before the opening of Ellis Island in 1892. It explores the way immigration works today following the closure of the Island in 1954. These galleries follow the lives of real immigrants as they make their way into the United States and try to build a new life for themselves. American Family Immigration History Center For those of you with a particular interest in your family’s history, this Center is going to be a real treat. Get a chance to explore the entire archival collection of immigration arrival records at Ellis Island and search for your ancestors. Search by passenger record, ship manifest, and ship information. Have any family on the Wall of Honor? Search for the location of their name with the Foundation’s Search the Wall. Ellis Island Hard Hat Tour The Hard Hat Tour takes visitors on a 90-minute tour of the South Side of Ellis Island. The tour visits the Ellis Island Hospital facilities, including the contagious disease wards and autopsy rooms. The tour also includes the art exhibit "Unframed – Ellis Island" by JR, featuring full-size photographs of immigrants. No children under 13 are allowed on this tour. Nearby Attractions Liberty Island and Ellis Island stand apart from New York City in its harbor. However, there are many attractions near both the New York and New Jersey ferry landings. For a couple ideas, check out our things to do in lower Manhattan post. Here are a few others we suggest adding to your itinerary... See the famous Charging Bull statue and walk over to Wall Street, where you'll find Federal Hall, a National Memorial marking the spot where George Washington became president. Honor more of our nation’s important history with a visit to the poignant 9/11 Tribute Center & Memorial Museum. If you’d like to see the statue but don’t feel like waiting in lines at the actual island, try these fun options out on the water... Landmark Cruise by Circle Line Sightseeing Clipper City Tall Shop Sail Shearwater Classic Schooner Sail The Museum of Jewish Heritage is also right on the waterfront. New York City Hall is an interesting place to snap photos. Pedal across the Brooklyn Bridge on a bike tour. If you're departing from the Jersey City location, take time to appreciate the views of New York City's West Side skyline. Liberty State Park's greenery provides a respite from the concrete city and its trails can even take you through a salt marsh. The Liberty Science Center helps visitors understand science and technology through hands-on exhibits. Where to eat near the Statue of Liberty? What restaurants are near the Statue of Liberty? You are allowed to bring your own food for lunch. However, it needs to be sealed prior to entering the screening facility. Coolers are not allowed. The boat ride to the islands is brief. But if you get hungry on the way, you can purchase food on board. Evelyn Hill Inc. is the food concessionaire located on Liberty Island and Ellis Island. It offers a variety of high quality food options. Back in Manhattan, you'll find hot dog vendors and the Battery Gardens restaurant tucked as far south on the island as you can get. Dine with a view of Lady Liberty at Battery Gardens. Gigino at Wagner Park also features great Statue views alongside Italian fare. Are you a Seinfeld fan? Then head to the Original Soup Man. Beaubourg offers high-end French cuisine and a delicious raw bar. In the mood for Japanese fare? Check out Shinjuku Sushi. History buffs will enjoy Trinity Place, located in a converted bank. Kids will love Peanut Butter & Co. Sandwich Shop. Families can find a wide variety of affordable chain options from Shake Shack to Subway. Save on Admission with a New York Explorer Pass Remember, the New York City Explorer Pass is the best choice for maximum savings and flexibility, which includes Statue of Liberty ferry tickets, plus admission to your choice of dozens more top attractions. Save up to 50% on top museums, tours, and activities vs. paying at the gate. Visit multiple attractions for one low price.
Lindsay Eagan

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