Vous vous apprêtez à passer 3 jours à New York, et vous vous demandez comment faire pour visiter du mieux possible cette ville immense et aux multiples facettes ? Ça tombe bien, Go City est là pour vous aider !
De Times Square à Brooklyn, en passant par Greenwich Village et Chinatown, découvrez sans plus attendre le meilleur de la Ville qui ne dort jamais.
Jour 1 : de Times Square à Central Park
Nous commençons notre visite à Times Square, bien sûr ! Ce quartier est l’un des plus animés de la ville, et ses lumières et ses publicités géantes sont célèbres dans le monde entier. Rien de tel pour être immédiatement plongé dans l’effervescence new-yorkaise. C’est aussi là que se trouvent Broadway et ses théâtres de comédies musicales, dont vous pourrez admirer les devantures.
Si nous avons choisi Times Square comme point de départ, ce n’est pas un hasard - outre le fait qu’il cristallise à lui seul l’atmosphère de la ville, il bénéficie aussi d’une localisation centrale. J’espère que vous avez mis de bonnes chaussures, car aujourd’hui, nous allons marcher ! Dirigeons-nous vers le Rockefeller Center : cet immeuble d’inspiration d’art déco, qui date des années 1940, est un des bâtiments historiques de la ville. En plus d’admirer son architecture intéressante, nous vous conseillons de prendre l’ascenseur pour monter à Top of the Rock, la plateforme d’observation située sur quatre étages, du 67ème au 70ème. De là-haut, vous aurez une vue imprenable sur Manhattan et sur Central Park ! Rien de mieux pour vous donner un bon aperçu de New York.
Le Rockefeller Center étant situé le long de la 5ème Avenue, nous allons continuer à remonter cette artère, l’une des principales de la ville, connue pour ses boutiques et ses grands immeubles. A deux pas du Rockefeller se tient l’impressionnante Cathédrale Saint-Patrick, dont le style néo-gothique détonne au milieu des bâtiments de verre et d’acier. Sachez que vous pouvez en visiter les catacombes.
Le MoMA, musée d’art moderne et contemporain, se trouve un peu plus loin : c’est un des musées les plus importants de New York, et vous pourrez y voir des collections riches et intéressantes de dessins, peintures, sculptures ou encore photographies.
En continuant de remonter vers le Nord, nous tombons sur un autre site new-yorkais ultra-connu : Central Park ! C’est LE poumon vert de la ville : les New-Yorkais aiment se promener au milieu des 341 hectares de verdure, faire du sport ou organiser un pique-nique entre amis. Central Park possède pas moins de sept points d’eau, parmi lesquels l’immense Reservoir et The Pond, qui offre une vue magnifique sur les immeubles de la 59ème rue. Vous pouvez en profiter pour faire une pause bien méritée, mais les plus sportifs préfèreront peut-être louer des vélos pour mieux parcourir les allées du parc.
Central Park est bordé par plusieurs des plus grands musées de la ville. Il vous faudra choisir parmi le Musée d’histoire naturelle, où ossements de dinosaures et animaux empaillés venus du monde entier côtoient fossiles et pierres précieuses ; le musée Guggenheim, qui possède une étonnante collection comprenant notamment des œuvres de Picasso, Mondrian, Kandinsky ou Chagall, et qui est également connu pour son architecture avant-gardiste surprenante ; et, bien sûr le très célèbre Metropolitan Museum of Art, plus connu sous son petit surnom de MET : c’est l’un des plus grands musées d’art au monde. Trésors de l’Antiquité, art américain, œuvres égyptiennes ou asiatiques, vous pourriez passer des heures à en explorer les collections. Et pour cause, le musée possède plus de 2 millions d’objets !
Pour terminer cette première journée déjà bien remplie, redescendez la 5ème Avenue et montez au sommet de l’Empire State Building pour le coucher du soleil : le spectacle des avenues qui s’illuminent progressivement est inoubliable.
Jour 2 : de Battery Park à Greenwich Village
Après cette première journée bien remplie, il est temps de découvrir une autre partie de la ville. Notre deuxième promenade commence à l’extrême Sud de Manhattan, à Battery Park. Pourquoi ? D’abord parce que c’est d’ici que partent les ferrys qui vous emmènent à Ellis Island et à la Statue de la Liberté. Consacrez une bonne partie de la matinée à cette excursion, où vous en apprendrez plus sur l’histoire de New York...de plus, vous aurez depuis le bateau et les îles une vue à couper le souffle sur la skyline que dessinent les gratte-ciels.
A votre retour sur la terre ferme, explorez le Financial District et promenez-vous aux milieu des hommes d’affaire qui arpentent Wall Street, puis prenez la direction du Mémorial du 11 septembre, qui se dresse à l’emplacement des tours jumelles, tristement connues pour les attentats ayant frappé New York en 2001. Il se compose de deux bassins carrés de 9 mètres de profondeur, alimentés en permanence par des chutes d’eau. Le musée attenant, très émouvant, retrace la chronologie de la tragédie et rend hommage aux 2977 victimes.
Vous serez ensuite tout près d’un des quartiers les plus surprenants de New York : Chinatown ! La vie s’y articule autour de la station de métro Canal Street. Explorez la rue commerçante Mott Street et pour les ruelles Pell Street et Doyer Street, qui abritent les bâtiments les plus anciens du quartier. Vous pourrez voir aussi le Mahayna, plus grand temple bouddhiste de New York ; et Columbus Park, le seul espace vert du quartier, où vous verrez les habitants jouer aux échecs ou pratiquer le tai-chi - idéal pour une petite pause au milieu de votre deuxième journée de visite...
En début de soirée, dirigez-vous vers Greenwich Village. C’est le cœur culturel de New York : il fut le terrain de jeu des artistes de la scène hippie, puis de la Beat Generation et des musiciens de folk. Dans les rues et les cafés, vous ressentirez encore cette atmosphère bohème...voici quelques-uns des clubs de jazz les plus mythiques de la ville : le Blue Note, le Zinc Bar ou le Bar Next Door.
Jour 3 : Brooklyn
En ce troisième jour, partons à la découverte d’un de nos boroughs préférés : Brooklyn ! Depuis Manhattan, vous pouvez vous y rendre en métro, mais aussi à pied, par exemple en traversant le célèbre pont de Brooklyn. Avec ses deux piliers de granite, il est reconnaissable entre tous. Long de 1825 mètres, il a fallu quatorze ans pour le construire, et il a été mis en service en 1883.
Vous arrivez ensuite dans le quartier de Dumbo, où vous pourrez longer les parcs pour avoir une vue magnifique sur la skyline que dessinent les immeubles de Manhattan. A Brooklyn, les activités ne manquent pas ; voici une petite sélection parmi laquelle vous pourrez choisir celles qui vous intéressent le plus :
- Prospect Park : le plus grand parc de Brooklyn est un écrin de verdure agréable et familiale, au sein duquel se trouve le Zoo ainsi que le très joli Jardin botanique. C’est aussi au bord de ce parc que vous pourrez découvrir le Brooklyn Museum, dont la collection d'œuvres d’artistes américains vaut le détour.
- Williamsburg : quartier branché et multiculturel, connu pour ses petits bâtiments en brique qui lui donnent une atmosphère à nulle autre pareille, Williamsburg est l’endroit idéal pour profiter de la vie nocturne de Brooklyn. On aime particulièrement la vue depuis Domino Park et les bars et restaurants de Berry Street.
- Bushwick : c’est le repère des jeunes et des familles à la recherche d’un mode de vie alternatif. On y circule en vélo, on y recycle, et certains lieux sont devenus des institutions de la slow life. Surtout, on vient pour y admirer les œuvres de street-art, car c’est une des capitales mondiales de cet art !
- Coney Island : si vous êtes à New York en été, vous aurez peut-être envie de profiter du soleil et de l’océan. Pour cela, direction Coney Island : c’est l’une des plages les plus célèbres et les plus populaires de la ville, et vous pourrez vous mêler aux new-yorkais qui viennent bronzer, faire du sport, manger des hot-dogs chez Nathan’s et se divertir au parc d’attractions Luna Park.
En bref
Une ville, trois jours, et tant de possibilités ! Mais avec cet itinéraire, vous aurez déjà un bon aperçu de la Ville qui ne dort jamais...on se revoit bientôt ?
Go City ne vous donne pas seulement des conseils de voyage : on vous aide aussi à économiser ! Pour tout savoir, jetez un œil à nos formules et attractions.
DAY 1
Stop #1: Hop-On Hop-Off Big Bus Sightseeing Tour
Begin your adventure by getting to know the city while on a hop-on hop-off double-decker bus sightseeing tour. It covers dozens of major sights and sounds that you must see when visiting NYC, all while providing informative and interesting narration. A few of the top sites you'll see include the Empire State Building, Brooklyn Bridge, Wall Street, Madison Square Garden, and many more.
The tour provides a great overview of the city's major landmarks and history while giving you the flexibility to hop on and off at any of the included stops along the way, making this a good option for those who like a little bit of freedom in their itineraries.
Getting in: Hop On Hop Off Big Bus New York Tours are available as an option on our pass.
Stop #2: Times Square (free!)
It's about one of the most touristy things to do out there, but it's a must-see for a reason. The hustle and bustle of New York City life really converge on Times Square, and it's a unique chance to see some of the more bizarre figures in NYC pop culture.
It's also a great place to souvenir shop, with everything from iconic shops like the Disney Store to hole-in-the-wall trinket joints. You'll likely only want to spend a short time here unless you're shopping, so reserve between 30 minutes and an hour of your morning.
Check out our guide, Things to Do in Times Square, to make the most of your visit to this busy neighborhood.
Stop #3: Intrepid Museum (indoor option)
This science and history museum is dedicated to preserving and showcasing the history of American military craft across generations. They offer a variety of permanent and special rotating exhibits that highlight specific conflicts or vessels, all with real artifacts, authentic photographs, and behind-the-scenes info. The Intrepid itself is also a National Historic Landmark, so even just a quick walk across the ship is like stepping back in time.
Now, as an exciting bonus, our admission includes the Space Shuttle Pavilion! See the Enterprise, the shuttle which was responsible for so much of the progress made in early NASA spaceflight programs (Mercury and Gemini). There are also several photos and other artifacts as part of this exhibit, so be sure to stay for a while to scope the whole area out.
Getting in: Intrepid Museum tickets are included as an option on our pass.
Stop #3: Landmark Cruise by Circle Line Sightseeing (outdoor option)
This comprehensive two-hour NYC cruise is a perfect option for those looking for panoramic views of the New York City skyline. You'll see all the best features and landmarks of NYC, like the Statue of Liberty, Battery Park, the Brooklyn Bridge, the Empire State Building, the United Nations, and more!
Tours run every couple of hours; be sure to confirm your desired cruise time and arrive around 45 minutes in advance to allow for ticketing and boarding. This tour runs only seasonally, so be sure to check on their website (or ours) to see when the cruise is available.
Getting in: Landmark Cruise: Circle Line Sightseeing tickets are available as an option on our pass.
Stop #4: Guggenheim Museum (indoor option)
Welcome to the work of art filled with works of art!
The fabulous, swirling white helix of a building it totally unique in it surroundings of townhouses on the Upper East Side, and within its walls you'll discover even more treasures. Home to the works of Cézanne, Gauguin, Manet, Monet, Picasso, Pissarro, Renoir, and more, its an impressionist-enthusiast's dream and hosts the finest temporary exhibitions too.
Viewing priceless art always stirs up an appetite, and happily there is the fabulous Café 3 within the museum that has stunning views over central park to enjoy while you break for coffee and cake.
Getting in: Guggenheim Museum tickets are included with our pass.
Stop #4: Central Park Bike Tour (outdoor option)
If the weather is nice and you're not feeling roaming around inside, explore the great outdoors with a bike ride through the beautiful Central Park. A Central Park bike tour is an ideal way to get some fresh air and an eco-friendly way to tour one of the city’s most beloved landmarks.
It's also one of the best ways to cover a lot of ground in Central Park and really get a feel for what locals love about this vast green space. Some of the many of the top Central Park attractions you’ll see on your tour include the Cherry Hill Fountain, Strawberry Fields and Imagine Mosaic, Shakespeare Garden, Belvedere Castle, and the Great Lawn.
For more information about the Park, check out our comprehensive guide, Things to do in Central Park. This bike tour lasts about 2 hours.
Getting in: Central Park Bike Tours are available as an option on our pass.
Stop #5: American Museum of Natural History
This attraction is a favorite with adults and kids alike and has something to appeal to every interest and taste. The American Museum of Natural History is filled with natural wonders, historic artifacts, and exciting, interactive exhibits that span a vast array of subjects. Some of the highlights of the museum include their impressive collection of dinosaur fossils, a beautiful room filled with gems and minerals, the Milstein Hall of Ocean Life, and their detailed dioramas of various animal life.
Getting in: American Museum of Natural History tickets are available as an option on our pass.
Day 2 Stop #1: Empire State Building
Begin your afternoon with a visit to one of the most iconic buildings in all of New York City – the Empire State Building. Ascend to the 86th floor of the Empire State Building of this architectural marvel for some of the best views and photo opportunities. In addition to being a fascinating structure, the Empire State Building is also steeped with historical significance.
There’s a lot to offer for architecture buffs, for example, with regards to its art deco décor. Don’t forget your camera! We recommend reserving at least 2 hours for this attraction. Keep in mind that elevator lines will add to your overall time spent at the attraction.
Getting in: Empire State Building tickets are available as an option on our pass.
Stop #2: High Line Park (Free!)
The High Line is one of New York City's hidden gems. It's a beautiful green park made from the remains of an old elevated rail line that runs from the Meatpacking District to West 34th Street. Along the way, you'll pass through the artsy neighborhood of Chelsea. Visitors can choose to walk the entire 1.45 miles or get off at one of several descent points.
There are some excellent options for lunch in Chelsea (including the famed Chelsea Market) if your timing works out to find you in this area around mid-afternoon. The High Line is free for all! Visit the High Line website for more detailed information about what you can see and do along the trail.
If you like, walk the full length of the High Line all the way up to the glimmering new neighborhood of Hudson Yards where you'll find the stunning lattice-like structure and exciting outdoor viewpoint, The Vessel. This network of staircases reaches 150 feet into the sky and gives daring climbers a whole host of new perspectives to view the city in.
Getting in: Top of the Highline and Vessel tour tickets are available as an option with our pass.
Stop #3: Top of the Rock Observatory
For comparative purposes, you'll want to conclude your afternoon with the amazing aerial views of New York available from the Top of the Rock Observatory. It’s one of the most popular things to do in all of New York, and it’s truly a unique perspective on the city. The Top of the Rock has three floors of indoor and outdoor observation decks, plus 360-degree views of the city below.
Some of the landmarks you’ll be able to spot from this vantage point include the Chrysler Building, the Freedom Tower, Central Park, and more. We recommend reserving between 1-2 hours for this attraction, although visiting this late in the day will mean longish wait times. If you're only choosing one observation deck on your NYC itinerary, make sure to visit early in the day.
Getting in: Top of the Rock Observatory tickets are available as an option on our pass.
Stop #4: Museum of Modern Art (MoMA)
Spend the remainder of your afternoon in one of the best art institutions in the world – the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA). Located in an airy and contemporary space, their significant collections of painting, sculpture, drawing, photography, and more are thought-provoking and inspiring.
The world’s greatest artists are all represented at this museum. You’ll see works by Monet, Warhol, Seurat, Dali, Picasso, Pollack, and more. Be sure to check out the gift store before you leave! We recommend reserving between 2-3 hours for this attraction.
Getting in: The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) tickets are available as an option on our pass.
DAY 3 Stop #1: Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island
Hop aboard a ferry to set sail for two of New York City's most famous attractions - the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. Liberty Island features the iconic Lady Liberty statue, with tours of the grounds and access to different parts the statue available through the National Park Service. The Ellis Island Immigration Museum is another awesome attraction on a separate island, offering a chance for many Americans to explore their heritage, and for all to soak up the vibrant history of this once-hectic immigration center. Your pass provides round-trip ferry transportation only; some areas of the Statue of Liberty require separate tickets purchased in advance.
Getting in: Statue of Liberty Ferry tickets are available as an option on our pass.
Stop #2: 9/11 Memorial & Museum
The indoor option for your last day is one of the most important attractions in all of NYC – the 9/11 Memorial and Museum. It’s a poignant reminder of all that we lost in the tragic attacks on September 11, 2001, and reminds us all about the way the world changed after that fateful day. Explore the museum’s several exhibition galleries that study the attacks, honor the lives lost both in 2001 and 1993, and feature several artifacts.
Getting in: 9/11 Memorial and Museum tickets are available with our pass.
Stop #3: Battery Park (free!)
Head down to the southernmost point of Manhattan and enjoy the lovely waterfront views available at Battery Park. There are a number of small attractions within the park, like the Museum of Jewish Heritage and the Skyscraper Museum, as well as some public art pieces like the beautiful sculpture entitled "The Sphere."
Admission to the park is free for all, but some of the activities may require additional costs. We recommend reserving about a half hour for Battery Park if you aren't planning to visit any of the other attractions.
Stop #4: Whitney Museum of Art (indoor option)
Another one for the art lovers is the beautiful Whitney Museum of American Art. This innovative museum has long been important to New York City’s arts scene for its dedication to living artists, both established and up-and-coming, and for their groundbreaking exhibitions of never-before-seen American art. Visitors to this Lower Manhattan mainstay will get to enjoy their full range of exhibits and programming, which includes everything from twentieth-century painting to works of art made just last year!
Getting in: Whitney Museum of Art tickets are included as an option with our pass.
Stop #4: Brooklyn Bridge Walking Tour (outdoor option)
This is another one of those can’t-miss landmarks you’ll want to make sure you get a chance to see before leaving NYC. Take a walking tour of the Brooklyn Bridge and the DUMBO neighborhood with experienced and insightful tour guides to get a real feel for the area. You’ll learn about the inspiring and exciting history of this iconic bridge, plus get a chance to explore the boutiques, shops, art galleries, and tasty restaurants in Brooklyn. Advance reservations are required. This tour lasts 1.5-2 hours.
Getting in: Brooklyn Bridge Walking Tour tickets are available as an option on our pass.
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