Perfect 1-Day Trip to NYC: Ideal for First Timers (2025)
Planning a one-day trip to NYC? You’ve come to the right place! Having lived in New York City, we put together a 1-day itinerary that has been tried and tested by friends we hosted and co-workers who visited over the years.
New York City is one of the most iconic cities in the world. We get it – we lived there ourselves for 3 years. There are countless things to do and see, and you could easily spend weeks exploring new sights every day. But we know time isn’t always on your side, and sometimes all you have is one day to experience the city.
If you’re a time-crunched traveller, don’t worry! You can still get a fantastic feel for NYC, even if you’re only in town for 24 hours. During our time in the city, we hosted several guests for just a day and frequently provided recommendations to co-workers visiting for a short stay.
Our 1-day plan has been tested and refined with countless first-time NYC visitors. It’s based on our personal experiences and includes many iconic sights that make the Big Apple so unique.
In addition to the itinerary, you’ll find top tips for first-time visitors and a map indicating all the places in this guide to ensure you can make the most of your time.
Some of the links in this post are affiliate links. If you click on the link and purchase the item or service, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. By using our links, you’re supporting us to provide you with free content for your city trips. Learn more on our Privacy Policy page.
Short on time?
Here are our top picks for one day in NYC:
Must-See: Here are the top 3 things you shouldn’t miss on a trip to New York:
Best Hotels: These are our favourite central hotels in NYC:
Save Money: An attraction pass like the New York CityPASS or the Go City New York pass can help you save on attractions, depending on your final itinerary.
Tours & Experiences: You can find local tours & book tickets for NYC attractions on GetYourGuide (GYG) and Viator. We’ve saved our favourite NYC experiences and tours in this collection on GYG.
NYC in a Day: Perfect 1-Day Itinerary
Obviously, it’s impossible to see all that NYC has to offer in a single day, but this itinerary will give you a taste of some of its most famous places, buildings, historic landmarks, and parks.
It focuses on the must-see places that make New York unique; things you won’t find anywhere else.
We’ll start the day on the other side of the river in the trendy Brooklyn neighbourhood of DUMBO. From there, we’ll cross the iconic Brooklyn Bridge into Manhattan and make our way up to Central Park. You’ll see that this itinerary is packed with some of the best spots you can visit in New York City in just one day.
Morning: Brooklyn Bridge & Financial District
Start your day with breakfast at a classic NYC diner. Grab yourself a quintessential New York bagel and coffee. Whether you prefer a bagel with egg, sausage and bacon, or scallion cream cheese, there are some famous bagel shops you shouldn’t miss.
You could visit Murray’s Bagels or Ess-a-Bagel in Manhattan, or head to La Bagel Delight in Brooklyn’s DUMBO for an authentic New York bagel experience.
With breakfast sorted, it’s time to explore Brooklyn Bridge and Lower Manhattan.
Brooklyn Bridge
Start your day from DUMBO on the Brooklyn side of the Brooklyn Bridge. Opened in 1883, the bridge is one of the most iconic symbols of NYC.
DUMBO, which stands for “Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass”, is a trendy neighbourhood located in Brooklyn. It has some of the best views of the Manhattan skyline, especially from the waterfront facing the East River. Take a few minutes to walk around the waterfront area, then make your way onto Brooklyn Bridge.
Our top tip: Starting your sightseeing as early as possible is the best way to ensure you can make the most of your day. Visit Brooklyn Bridge in the morning as it’s the best time to see; the bridge will get very crowded later in the day. You only have one day in NYC, so making every second count is crucial!
By approaching Manhattan instead of walking away from it, you’ll be treated to incredible views throughout the entire crossing. From the bridge, you’ll have gorgeous views of the harbour and Lower Manhattan, and even a distant view of the Statue of Liberty. You’ll be able to take great Instagrammable pictures from here.
Financial District
Having crossed the Brooklyn Bridge, you’ve arrived in the Financial District in Lower Manhattan, also known as FiDi.
Financial District: Area around Wall Street
Wall Street is home to some of the most significant financial institutions in the United States. Walk down the street and soak up the atmosphere, then check out some of the below sights in the area:
- New York Stock Exchange: The epicentre of global finance, where stocks are bought and sold. While the trading floor isn’t open to the public, have a look at the building itself, as it’s very iconic.
- Trinity Church: This Gothic Revival church offers a great contrast to the bustling financial district.
- Charging Bull Statue: Snap a photo with this iconic bronze sculpture, a symbol of American financial aggression.
- Federal Hall National Memorial: A beautiful building and the site where George Washington took his oath of office as the first President of the United States.
Financial District: World Trade Center
The original World Trade Center with its famous twin towers was tragically destroyed in the terrorist attacks of 11th September 2001. Today, the rebuilt World Trade Center site stands as a symbol of resilience and renewal on the same site as the original.
The main building of the 16-acre complex is One World Trade Center, the tallest building in the Western Hemisphere.
Here are the three other sights we recommend you to see:
- Oculus: Just a short walk from the memorial, the Oculus is a must-see for architecture enthusiasts. Also known as the Oculus Transportation Hub, this unique building was designed by Spanish architect Santiago Calatrava (you might recognise his style if you’ve ever been to Valencia in Spain). It’s home to the Westfield shopping mall. Even if you don’t have time to shop, the Oculus’s design is worth stopping by for a photo opportunity! Plus, it’s one of the best spots to enjoy in NYC during rainy days.
- 9/11 Memorial Pools: These twin pools are located in the footprints of the original Twin Towers. There, you’ll find waterfalls and panels inscribed with the names of the nearly 3,000 victims of the attacks.
- 9/11 Museum: We highly recommend a visit to the museum to learn more about the events of that day. The exhibits are very well done and informative. Just be prepared for an emotional experience. Due to its popularity, it’s advisable to buy skip-the-line tickets to avoid long waiting times – you don’t want to queue for 2 hours!
For a more comprehensive understanding of 9/11, consider taking a guided Ground Zero tour to gain deeper insights into the history and significance of the area.
Battery Park & Statue of Liberty
Pause for a moment to take in the breathtaking views from Battery Park. From here, you can glimpse the famous Statue of Liberty across New York Harbour.
Usually, a full trip to see the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island takes about 4-6 hours. But if you don’t have that much time to spare, the view from Battery Park still lets you see the statue without needing to go on a lengthy tour.
If you really want to get closer to the statue, you could take this 50-minute express cruise from Battery Park. This boat ride gives you the best close-up views of Lady Liberty from the water and doesn’t take up half your day.
Another option is to hop on the free Staten Island Ferry, which goes between Lower Manhattan and Staten Island. It’s a great way to see the Statue of Liberty up close without spending money. Just remember, the ferry doesn’t come as often, only every 15-30 minutes. And the round trip takes about 25 minutes each way. So, if you go this route, it might take you about 1.5-2 hours to get back to Battery Park.
Lunch: Chelsea Market
From Battery Park, consider taking an Uber, taxi, or the Metro to Chelsea Market. While walking is an option (we’ve done the route many times while we lived in NYC), it takes about 1 hour. With only one day in the city, it’s essential that you make the most of your time.
Chelsea Market is a trendy food hall and shopping destination in a historic factory building in the heart of Chelsea. In our opinion, it’s one of the best indoor food destinations in NYC, with over 40 incredible eateries.
We’ve been to Chelsea Market many times, and we have a two recommendations:
- Miznon – They have delicious Middle Eastern food.
- Los Tacos No. 1 – Treat yourself to authentic tacos, a local favourite!
Afternoon: Midtown Manhattan & Central Park
High Line
New York City’s High Line is one of the coolest places you can see during a one-day visit. This old elevated freight rail line was built in the 1930s and later transformed into a park.
This 2.4km-long (1.5-mile-long) park is perfect for taking photos and taking in the views of the city. The path is lined with various plants and art installations.
Did you know? The New York High Line was inspired by the Promenade Plantée, a park built on an old railway line in Paris. Since then, similar projects have appeared around the world, such as the Seoullo 7017 in Seoul (South Korea) or The Rail Park in Philadelphia, PA (USA).
You’ll arrive in Hudson Yards, an up-and-coming neighbourhood in Midtown Manhattan. From there, you can either take a cab or Uber to the next stop (12 minutes) or walk for about 30 minutes.
New York Public Library & Bryant Park
Next, head to the New York Public Library, an iconic NYC landmark.
We love unique libraries, like the beautiful Metropolitan Ervin Szabó Library in Budapest, and this one in NYC is just as fascinating. The New York Public Library houses over 50 million items, making it one of the largest libraries in the world.
Our top tip: Check out the Rose Main Reading Room for free. It has a slightly Harry Potter vibe, with its majestic architecture and scholarly atmosphere.
While you’re there, stop by Bryant Park just outside the library. It’s a fantastic place to relax with a coffee. During the winter months, the park transforms into a charming ice-skating rink. If you bring your own ice skates, you can skate for free, which we did a lot when we lived in NYC.
Panoramic Views from an Observation Deck
When you have just one day in the city, you can’t miss the chance to get a bird’s-eye view of the Big Apple! The city has several incredible observation decks. Here are five of the most popular decks:
- Top of the Rock (Rockefeller Center) – Our #1 choice
- SUMMIT One Vanderbilt – Our #2 choice
- Edge Observation Deck (Hudson Yards)
- One World Observatory (One World Trade Center)
- Empire State Building Observatory
Having lived in NYC, we’ve experienced dozens of panoramic views. Our top pick is Top of the Rock. Why? We believe it offers the best views (360-degree views of Central Park, the iconic Chrysler Building and Empire State Building, and the entire Manhattan skyline) and doesn’t have glass barriers to obstruct your photos.
Our second choice is SUMMIT One Vanderbilt, the newest observatory, with mirrored walls and ceilings that create an infinity effect.
Quick comparison of NYC’s top observation decks
>> Scroll to the right to see the entire table
| Feature | Top of the Rock | Edge | One World Observatory | Empire State Building | SUMMIT One Vanderbilt |
| Height | 260 metres (850 feet) | 345 metres (1,131 feet) | 381 metres (1,250 feet) | 381 metres (1,250 feet) | 369 metres (1,210 feet) |
| Views | 360-degree views of Central Park, Midtown Manhattan | Westward views overlooking the city | Panoramic views of Lower Manhattan, Statue of Liberty | 360-degree panoramic views of the entire city | Mirrored walls and ceilings for an infinity effect |
| Observatory Floor | 70th floor | 100th floor | 100th floor | 86th + 102nd floor | 91st floor |
| General admission | From $40 | From $40 | From $44 | From $44 | From $43 |
| Special Features | No glass barriers | Glass floor | Interactive exhibits | Iconic landmark | Mirrored infinity effect |
Our top tip: If you visit Top of the Rock (our #1 recommendation), don’t miss the famous Channel Gardens and the lower-level concourse at Rockefeller Plaza. During the Christmas season, you can ice skate there and see the iconic Rockefeller Christmas Tree – it’s gorgeous! Plus, Radio City Music Hall and St. Patrick’s Cathedral (two other famous NYC landmarks) are just around the corner.
Grand Central Terminal
NYC’s Grand Central Terminal is probably the world’s most famous train terminal. Also known as Grand Central Station, it has been featured in countless movies and TV shows, such as “Breakfast at Tiffany’s” and “Mad Men”.
The architecture of the terminal is stunning, especially the main concourse. One of our favourite features is the ceiling in the main concourse, which has over 2,500 stars.
Here are two other highlights you shouldn’t miss: the famous four-faced clock on top of the info booth and the Whispering Gallery. In the gallery, you can stand in opposite corners and softly speak against the wall – you’ll be able to hear each other crystal clear across the busy concourse.
Our top tip: If you’re keen to learn more about Grand Central Terminal, we highly recommend the NYC Secrets of Grand Central Walking Tour. You’ll discover the building’s rich history and importance, along with some hidden spots in the station you’d never find on your own.
Central Park
No NYC itinerary is complete without Central Park. You’ve seen it in movies and pictures, and now you can experience it for yourself. So, in the late afternoon, head to Central Park.
While it’s too big to explore entirely in an hour or two, you can still get a taste of its charm. Here are some must-see sights with the limited time you have:
- Gapstow Bridge and the Pond
- Bethesda Terrace and Bethesda Fountain
- View from Cherry Hill over the Lake
- Bow Bridge
- Central Park Boathouse (Loeb Boathouse)
Right next to Central Park is New York’s Fifth Avenue. It’s among the most famous shopping streets on the planet, packed with some of the most renowned storefronts and tourist sights!
Evening: Entertainment
Option 1: Broadway Show
We couldn’t possibly create a one-day New York itinerary without mentioning Broadway. Even if you’re not a fan of musicals, seeing a show at NYC’s theatre district is a must. It’s a quintessential New York experience and a vital part of the culture.
These shows are some of the best theatre productions in the world. We love them and have seen more than 200 musicals and plays so far, both on Broadway and at London’s West End. Not all of them are awesome, but most are.
When we lived in NYC, we loved using the TodayTix app, which offers Lottery tickets to musicals and plays or specially priced day-of Rush tickets. This is great if you’re flexible, but since you only have one day there, you might want to buy your tickets in advance.
Our top tip: There are so many shows that it can be hard to pick one. Based on our experience, you can’t go wrong with Aladdin, The Lion King, Wicked, The Book of Mormon, Hamilton, or Come From Away.
Option 2: Evening Cruise
If Broadway isn’t your thing, an evening cruise along the Hudson is a brilliant way to round off your day. The Harbour Lights Cruise gives you a front-row seat to the New York skyline as it lights up after dark.
You’ll sail past landmarks like the Statue of Liberty, the Empire State Building, and the Brooklyn Bridge, all while getting a fresh look at the city from the water.
Option 3: Rooftop Bar
Another fantastic option for your evening in the Big Apple is to enjoy the Manhattan skyline from a rooftop bar. There are plenty of options.
Here are a few great rooftop bars (our favourites!) to get you started:
- Beast & Butterflies at M Social Hotel: Modern atmosphere with views of Times Square
- Magic Hour Rooftop Bar & Lounge at Moxy Times Square: Multiple cocktail bars, carousel décor, live music, and stunning views
- Dear Irving on Hudson: Retro-chic cocktail bar with a waterfront location
- Bookmarks Rooftop Lounge at the Library Hotel: Literary-inspired cocktails and a rooftop garden
Times Square
Last but not least, Times Square! A trip to NYC without seeing Times Square is like visiting Paris without seeing the Eiffel Tower. It’s a must-do in the City that never sleeps!
Times Square is one of the most famous symbols of NYC. While you can visit during the day, we think seeing the bright lights and billboards at night is most interesting. It’s a great place to observe the city’s vibrant energy, people-watch, and take pictures.
Head to the red TKTS staircase for the best Times Square view and photos.
Our top tip: If you’re there right before midnight, check out the Midnight Moment. It’s the world’s largest and longest-running digital public art program. Every night, from 11:57pm to midnight, the massive electronic billboards in Times Square synchronise to showcase a single digital artwork.
Summary of 1-Day Itinerary + Interactive Map
1-day itinerary
Our 1-Day Itinerary for New York City
Here’s a summary of our itinerary, including the cost of each attraction:
Here’s an interactive map for you that outlines our 1-day itinerary:
How to use this map: Access the list of locations by clicking on the top left corner of the map. For a larger view, open the map in a new tab by clicking on the top right corner. Alternatively, save our map to your Google Maps by clicking the star next to the map title.
Best Places to Stay
Best Neighbourhoods in New York City
For one-day visitors, we suggest picking a neighbourhood that prioritises convenience, central location, and access to iconic sights. Our top options include Midtown Manhattan, the Financial District (FiDi), Upper West Side, Soho, and Lower East Side.
Here’s a short description of these neighbourhoods:
- Midtown Manhattan: The most central location, near Times Square, Broadway theatres, and major attractions like Rockefeller Center and the MoMA. Excellent public transportation options.
- Financial District (FiDi) – Lower Manhattan: Close to the Brooklyn Bridge, Statue of Liberty (ferry access), and the 9/11 Memorial & Museum. Often offers better hotel deals compared to Midtown.
- Upper West Side: Has a more residential feel, with a good mix of restaurants and shops. It’s close to Central Park and museums like the American Museum of Natural History, offering a slightly quieter atmosphere than Midtown.
- Soho & Lower East Side: Trendy neighbourhoods with great restaurants, bars, and shopping. They have a younger vibe and more unique shops and boutiques.
Best Hotels in NYC
Even before and after living in NYC, we visited the city many times for work and stayed in numerous hotels. The three hotels we loved the most were:
You can also use our map below to browse accommodations and real-time prices. It’s currently set to Midtown Manhattan, one of the city’s most popular areas to stay in. However, you can easily switch locations if you prefer another neighbourhood in the city.
NYC Insider Tips & Common Mistakes to Avoid
Conquering NYC in a single day is an ambitious feat, but with the right strategy, you can maximise your experience!
Here are some essential tips (from former NYC residents) to navigate the Big Apple like a seasoned pro:
- Consider buying an NYC city pass: There are multiple city passes available, like the New York CityPASS or the Go City New York Pass. Depending on your final itinerary, these can save you serious cash on popular attractions. Do your research and choose the pass that aligns best with your must-see sights!
- Public Transportation: Having navigated NYC daily for 3 years, we can confidently say that the city has an efficient subway system. Pay your subway fare with your contactless credit/debit card, a MetroCard, or an OMNY card (a rechargeable, contactless fare payment system in NYC). Then use Google Maps to navigate the system. Remember to tap your card upon entering and exiting the station.
- Don’t try to walk everywhere: While you could walk from one attraction to the next, it will take time away from your one day in NYC. Instead, opt for taxis, Uber, or the metro for longer distances to spend more time seeing the city.
- Never stop in the middle of the sidewalk: New Yorkers move fast, so don’t stop abruptly in the middle of the sidewalk. Maintain a steady pace and stay to the right if you need to pause to check your map or phone.
- Book as many attractions as possible in advance: Popular attractions in New York often have long lines. To maximise your time, book tickets for must-see sights like museums, observatories, or Broadway shows well in advance. This will help you avoid last-minute scrambles, get better deals, and ensure you don’t miss out on experiencing iconic landmarks. You can book tickets for NYC attractions on platforms like Viator and GetYourGuide.
- Opt for an eSIM for internet access: If you’re visiting from abroad, skip the hassle of finding a physical SIM card in NYC. Opt for an eSIM for seamless mobile data during your trip. It’s straightforward to activate and ensures you stay connected without needing to switch SIM cards. Our top pick is Ubigi eSIM. Learn more in our Ubigi eSIM review.
- Bring a portable charger: A portable charger is essential in a city like NYC. With so much to capture and navigate on your phone, you’ll want to make sure your battery lasts all day. We always travel with our favourite one from Anker; it’s compact, fast, and has never let us down.
FAQ: 24 Hours in New York City
Is one day in NYC enough?
One day in NYC is enough to give you a taste of the city’s energy and see some of the iconic landmarks, but it won’t cover everything. To fully experience all that NYC has to offer, plan a longer visit.
How many days do I need in NYC?
For a deep dive into NYC’s culture, sights, and neighbourhoods, plan to stay for at least 5-7 days. This lets you explore beyond Manhattan and truly experience the city.
Can you explore NYC without a car?
Yes, you can easily explore NYC without a car. The city’s efficient public transportation system, including the subway and buses, along with taxis and ride-sharing services, makes it convenient to get around. Walking and biking are also great ways to experience the city.
Is it worth going to NYC for a day?
Absolutely, it’s worth going to NYC for a day! A day in NYC lets you experience some of the city’s iconic landmarks, vibrant energy, and diverse culture. Prioritise your must-sees, book attractions in advance, and embrace the whirlwind adventure!
Final Thoughts
We hope this itinerary, tested with many first-time visitors, helps you experience the best of NYC in just one day. With our insider tips and a focus on must-see sights, you’ll get a taste of the city’s energy and iconic landmarks. It is packed for a one-day trip but offers you most for a tight schedule.
As former NYC locals, we’ve made a conscious effort to explore as much as possible, and we’re confident we’ve seen more of the city than most lifelong New Yorkers.
Our 1-day NYC itinerary includes some of the best things that NYC has to offer. The itinerary has been tested many times by family, friends, and co-workers visiting NYC for the first time, ensuring it’s the perfect guide for a one-day trip to NYC.
For those planning a 24-hour day trip to NYC, remember to prioritise your must-see sights and book activities well in advance to ensure you can see as much as possible.
And if you visit on a rainy day, don’t worry – there are plenty of exciting indoor activities to keep you entertained.
Like this post?
Save it to Pinterest for later!
