New York City Travel Tips: Practical Planning Advice from Real Experience

Manhattan Skyline

Practical New York City travel tips based on our 6-day experience—where to stay, transportation, passes, money-saving ideas, and what we’d do differently next time.

Departure Day in New York City: Visiting Grand Central Terminal & the New York Public Library

New York Public Library

Our final day in New York City was packed with iconic sights like Grand Central Terminal and the New York Public Library before a series of unexpected travel delays turned our 23-hour journey into a 30+ hour adventure. From exploring NYC landmarks to navigating flight disruptions, here’s how our departure day unfolded.

Day 6 in New York City – Central Park & AMNH – Walking Route & Sunset Ferry

The Lake, Central Park

Day 6 in New York was all about exploring Central Park’s iconic spots, visiting the fascinating American Museum of Natural History, and ending the day with a breathtaking sunset ferry ride. From quiet green trails and dinosaur fossils to stunning skyline views from the water, this day was one of the most memorable parts of our NYC trip.

Day 5 in New York City – Roosevelt Island, Intrepid Museum, Hudson Yards & Pier 57

Little Island Pier 54

Explore New York Day 5 with Roosevelt Island, the Intrepid Museum, Hudson Yards, The Vessel, the High Line, Pier 57, and Little Island in one perfect NYC itinerary.

Day 4 in New York City – Exploring the Best of Lower Manhattan & the Statue of Liberty

Statue of Liberty

Our Day 4 in New York City was dedicated to exploring the icons of Lower Manhattan — from the majestic Statue of Liberty to the emotional 9/11 Memorial and breathtaking views from the One World Observatory. We began early at Battery Park to catch the first ferry to Liberty Island, explored the museum, and admired Lady Liberty up close. Later, we walked through Wall Street, visited the Charging Bull, and experienced the calm at St. Nicholas National Shrine. The day ended high above the skyline at One World Observatory, where the 360° city views left us speechless. Whether you’re planning your first visit to NYC or revisiting, this itinerary covers the best of Manhattan in one memorable day!

Day 3 in New York City – Brooklyn Bridge Walk, DUMBO, Flatiron District & Harry Potter Store

Brooklyn Bridge and Manhattan Skyline

Day 3 in New York City: Walk the Brooklyn Bridge, explore DUMBO & Pebble Beach, visit the Flatiron District, and shop at the magical Harry Potter Store.

Day 2 in New York City – Empire State Building, Rockefeller Center & Night Bus Tour

Inside Empire State

Day 2 in New York City: Visit the Empire State Building, Rockefeller Center, LEGO Store, St. Patrick’s Cathedral & enjoy a Times Square night bus tour.

Best NYC Observation Decks in 2025 – Prices, Views & Family-Friendly Tips

Discover the best NYC observation decks in 2025—compare height, ticket prices, views, photography tips, and kid-friendly recommendations for your trip.

Day 1 – Arrival in New York City & First Impressions

NYC Cab

Discover our first day in New York City - from arriving at LaGuardia Airport and choosing the best transfer to Times Square, to exploring Bryant Park, savoring Angelina hot chocolate, reuniting at Times Square, and ending the night with magical Empire State Building sparkles.

New York City Itinerary Planning: 6 Days of Exploration

Planning 6 days in NYC with family? From the Statue of Liberty & Central Park to DUMBO & Hudson Yards – here’s your day-by-day plan, budget tips & accommodation advice.