Only have one day in NYC and want to experience the best of the Big Apple? I got you covered!
I grew up in New York City, and lived all around Manhattan, so this guide is going to ensure you have the best time ever.
It’s truly my favorite city in the world and I’m so excited for you to visit, whether it’s your first time or hundredth.
Here’s how to make the most of 24 hours in New York City!
Sunrise at Brooklyn Bridge
Start your day early and catch the sunrise at Brooklyn Bridge. The bridge is less crowded at this time, so it’s ideal for photos.
Take an Uber or subway and start from DUMBO. You’ll want to walk towards Manhattan for the best skyline views!
Check out my guide for the famous DUMBO Manhattan Bridge View.
One World Observatory
After crossing the bridge, make your way downtown to the One World Observatory in the Financial District.
You can’t visit New York without a trip to Wall Street and home of the New York Stock Exchange (I may be biased because it’s where I once worked and lived).
Located atop the One World Trade Center, the iconic One World Observatory offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city from the 102nd floor.
You’ll get to see landmarks like the Empire State Building, Statue of Liberty, and even the edge of Central Park.
Breakfast at Chelsea Market
Walk, Uber, or subway up to Chelsea Market in the Meatpacking District, one of New York City’s most iconic (and one of my favorite) food halls.
Grab a coffee, fresh bagel, or pastry and explore the variety of gourmet food vendors.
Walk the High Line
Right next to Chelsea Market is the High Line, which is an elevated urban park built on a historic freight rail line.
There are beautifully landscaped gardens, street art installations, and scenic viewpoints. It’s a unique way to see the city from above while enjoying some green space.
Top of the Rock Observation Deck
There is basically a little city inside the Rockefeller Center.
You can go ice skating, shopping, and to Top of the Rockefeller to get views of the city from above.
There are always people around and there is so much to do here.!
Bar65 at the Rainbow Room is on the 65th floor of Rockefeller, so if you want to skip buying tickets, you can head over to the bar instead.
Personally, I prefer this over Empire State Building, but either will give you amazing views. You can even go to both!
Brunch
By now, it’s time for brunch, one of the most New York things you can do.
Whether you’re in the mood for classic eggs Benedict, avo toast, or bottomless mimosas, NYC has it all.
West Village, SoHo and Midtown all have plenty of charming cafés and trendy brunch spots.
Top picks:
- Jack’s Wife Freda (SoHo)
- Buvette (West Village)
- Sarabeth’s (Central Park South)
Helicopter Tour
After brunch, you’ll want to book a helicopter tour and fly over iconic landmarks like the Statue of Liberty, Empire State Building, and Central Park.
It’s a thrilling, once-in-a-lifetime experience!
Afternoon in Central Park
After the adrenaline rush, spend your afternoon in Central Park.
Rent a bike or take a stroll through famous spots like Bethesda Terrace, Bow Bridge, and The Mall.
If the weather’s nice, grab a coffee and relax by Sheep Meadow or row a boat at the Loeb Boathouse.
Tip: Rent a Citibike so you can bike around the whole park and streets of Manhattan.
Dinner
New York City is one of the culinary capitals of the world. Whether you’re in the mood for upscale dining or unique experiences, here are my dinner recommendations:
Best Steakhouses
- Peter Luger Steak House (Brooklyn)
- Keens Steakhouse (Midtown)
- STK (Meatpacking)
Best Sushi Restaurants
- Sushi Nakazawa (West Village)
- Nobu (TriBeCa)
- Blue Ribbon Sushi (SoHo)
Dinner Cruise
For something extra special, I would recommend to book a NYC dinner cruise.
You can s around the harbor with views of the Statue of Liberty, Brooklyn Bridge, and skyline all while enjoying a gourmet meal on the water.
Watch a Broadway Show
No visit to NYC is complete without seeing a Broadway show!
Whether you’re into musicals, dramas, or comedies, there’s something for everyone.
Head to Times Square’s TKTS booth for same-day discounted tickets or book ahead for my favorite shows: Hamilton, The Lion King, or Wicked.
Bonus Activities
If you want even more ways to explore:
- Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour: Great for seeing all the major sights without the hassle of subway navigation.
- Museum Visits: The Met, MoMA, or The Museum of Natural History are all fantastic options depending on your interests.
- Hudson Yards + The Edge: Another fantastic observation deck if you didn’t do One World Observatory.
New York in One Day
If you don’t want to plan and coordinate this yourself, you can also book a New York in One Day Guided Sightseeing Tour!
Many of my readers prefer this option as it’s completely hands off and they recommend how easy it is.
Best Bars in New York City
- Employees Only (West Village) – iconic speakeasy
- The Dead Rabbit (FiDi) – world-renowned cocktails
- 230 Fifth Rooftop (Flatiron) – unbeatable skyline views
Best Clubs in New York City
- Marquee (Chelsea)
- Le Bain (Meatpacking, at The Standard)
- Elsewhere (Brooklyn – for a more underground vibe)
Where To Stay in New York City
For a comfortable and central stay:
- The Standard, High Line – chic and centrally located near Chelsea Market and the High Line
- The Bowery Hotel – trendy and artsy in the Lower East Side
- The Ritz-Carlton Central Park – luxury and views
- citizenM Times Square – modern and affordable
Final Thoughts
And there you have it! The complete one day in New York City itinerary.
DM me on Instagram if you have any questions and have an amazing trip to my favorite city on earth!
What To Do Next
Buy an eSIM card so you are immediately connected as soon as you land! I always purchase an Holafly eSIM which gives you unlimited data. Use WANDERLOVER For 5% off!
Buy travel medical insurance so you are fully covered in case anything goes wrong. I use SafetyWing on all my travels and recommend them!
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