Plan for day 2 in NYC
Friday, 8th August 2025
- Walk to the Empire State Building – 9:15 AM to 11:00 PM
- Walk/Bus to East 34th St. Ferry Terminal
- Ferry to Roosevelt Island → The Room
- Roosevelt Tram to Tramway Plaza
- Walk to Carol’s Cafe, Greenacre Pocket Park
- Visit LEGO Store (10 AM – 9 PM)
- St. Patrick’s Cathedral
- (Optional) Nintendo Store
- Rockefeller Center → Magnolia Bakery (banana pudding, cheesecake)
Iconic Empire State Building
The Empire State Building was at the very top of Yuven’s New York bucket list, so we decided to begin our day here. Since the weather can affect the experience, we checked the forecast before booking our tickets. Our slot was at 9:15 a.m., so we arrived a little early, around 8:45 a.m., and joined the queue outside.
After entering, we passed through a few exhibits before heading to the ticket counter and clearing an airport-style security check. From there, the elevator took us to the museum area, where we learned about the building’s fascinating history. Displays included details about its construction, an old elevator model, and interactive exhibits. A short video about how the skyscraper was built added to the experience.
Finally, we reached the 80th-floor indoor observation deck. The sky was clear, and the 360-degree views of New York City were breathtaking. Helpful markers pointed out major landmarks visible from each side.
Next, we took the elevator to the 86th-floor open-air deck, which was crowded but worth the effort. We had to wait to find a good spot for photos, but the views of Manhattan from this world-famous building were absolutely unforgettable. The 102nd floor was also an option with an upgraded ticket, but we opted not to visit it this time.
Before exiting, we checked out the photos taken by the staff at the entrance. We liked them enough to purchase the digital copies for $35. There was also a souvenir shop, although we found the prices to be on the higher side.
Lunch at Rockefeller Center & the LEGO Store
Our visit to the Empire State Building took longer than expected, and with the heat rising, we decided to skip the Roosevelt Island visit and head straight to Rockefeller Center.
For lunch, we chose Madras Dosa Co., a South Indian restaurant located within the Rockefeller Center. We paid $70 for 2 dosas, 1 plate of idlis, and 1 plate of vadas — simple but satisfying!
Afterward, we walked around Rockefeller Center and then made our way to the famous LEGO Store. Spread over two floors, it felt like a mini-LEGO wonderland. From the Statue of Liberty and Empire State Building to Marvel characters and the classic NYC yellow cab, everything was built with LEGO bricks. The displays were impressive, and the store had a vibrant energy.
Yuven was beyond excited — clicking endless pictures and checking out the different sets. He eventually picked up the newly released ‘One-Piece’ LEGO set for himself. We easily spent over two hours here.
Right across from Rockefeller Center is the beautiful St. Patrick’s Cathedral. Since a ceremony was in progress, we didn’t go inside but admired the Gothic-style structure from the outside. From there, we hopped on an MTA bus and returned to our hotel for a quick power nap before heading out again in the evening.
Times Square & TopView Night Bus Tour
No trip to New York is complete without experiencing the magic of Times Square at night. To make it extra special, we booked a TopView night bus tour. Compared to Big Bus, TopView offers longer rides at a better price.
We purchased our tickets from an agent at the starting point of Topview buses, located opposite Hershey’s Chocolate World, for $90 for three people, which was cheaper than the online rates.
Since we wanted to start after sunset, we visited Hershey’s first, where we enjoyed milkshakes and chocolates before queuing to board the bus. The queue moved quickly, and within 15 minutes, we were on the double-decker bus.
This was the highlight of the day — sitting back, listening to the guided narration, and soaking in the glittering night views of Manhattan. The 1-hour 30-minute ride was the perfect way to wrap up our second day in New York City.
✨ Stay tuned for Day 3 of our New York adventure!
🗽 Arriving in NYC – Day 1
From the moment we landed to our first stroll through Times Square, this post captures all the little moments, surprises, and first impressions of our New York debut. Dive in as we uncover the city’s buzz, our cozy hotel experience, and that electric evening glow.
Read more ➤ Arriving in New York City
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One Plus One Three 
Enjoyed like anything, description is given in such way that we are also traveling with you.
very good.
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