New York City - 7-Days in the Concrete Jungle
New York City: The City of Dreams, The Big Apple, The Place Where Every TV Show Ever Seems to Be Set. When the opportunity arose to join the family trip for a 7-day adventure in this iconic city, we couldn’t pack our bags fast enough.
After all, New York is one of those places you just have to see with your own eyes, preferably while clutching a bagel and dodging taxis.
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Time of the Year
We visited at the end of August and into the beginning of September. If you’re a fan of saunas, this is a great time to go—it was hot. Very hot. But hey, nothing says "NYC experience" like sweating through your clothes while waiting for the subway.
Better Seasons to Visit (to avoid our mistake)
Spring (April to June): The city comes alive with blooming flowers, outdoor events, and more tolerable temperatures.
Fall (September to November): Crisp air, colorful leaves, and pumpkin-flavored everything.
Winter (December to February): The holiday decorations are pure magic, if you don’t mind the cold.
Budgeting Your Trip and What to Expect
Accommodation
Accommodation in New York can range from “Is this a closet?” to “I might have to sell a kidney for one night here.” That said, there’s something for every budget.
Budget Options: Hostels and budget hotels like The Pod Hotel or YOTEL offer small but stylish rooms. Prices range from $100 to $200 per night depending on the season. Be prepared for cozy spaces—it’s New York, after all.
Mid-Range: If you’re willing to spend a bit more, check out The Moxy Times Square or The Ace Hotel. These trendy spots offer comfort without the eye-watering prices of luxury hotels, averaging around $200 to $350 per night.
Splurge: Want to feel like a movie star? Book a stay at the Plaza Hotel or the Ritz-Carlton. Expect to pay $600 and up per night, but you’ll be living your best “Home Alone 2” life.
Food Prices
New York is a food lover’s paradise, but it can also drain your wallet if you’re not careful. Luckily, you can eat well without breaking the bank.
Cheap Eats: The city is famous for its street food. Grab a slice of pizza (usually $2-$4), a hot dog from a street cart ($2-$3), or a bagel with schmear (around $3-$5). Don’t miss iconic spots like Joe’s Pizza or Ess-a-Bagel.
Mid-Range: Sit-down meals at casual spots like Shake Shack or Katz’s Delicatessen will set you back around $15-$25 per person. A great option if you want a solid meal without the sticker shock.
Fine Dining: New York is home to some of the world’s best restaurants, and the prices reflect that. Expect to pay $75 and up per person at places like Le Bernardin or Per Se. But hey, sometimes you have to treat yourself.
Attractions
While New York can be expensive, some of its best attractions are surprisingly affordable—or even free!
Freebies: Stroll through Central Park, wander the High Line, or check out the public art in places like DUMBO or Hudson Yards. Walking across the Brooklyn Bridge is another must-do that costs nothing but your time (and maybe some blisters).
Museums: Many museums, like the Metropolitan Museum of Art and the American Museum of Natural History, suggest a donation or have free entry on certain days. Always check ahead for the best deals.
Broadway Shows: Seeing a Broadway show is a quintessential New York experience. If you’re flexible, try the TKTS booth for discounted same-day tickets, or check out sites like TodayTix for deals.
US Open: If you go in August like we did, make sure you have a look at the US Open if you are a Tennis Fan!
Transportation
Getting around New York is part of the adventure. The subway is your best friend (and sometimes your worst enemy), but it’s the fastest way to get around.
Subway: A single ride is $2.75, but a 7-day unlimited MetroCard for $33 is your best bet if you’re planning to explore the city.
Taxis and Ride-Sharing: Yellow cabs are iconic, but they can be pricey and slow during rush hour. Uber and Lyft are widely available but expect surge pricing during busy times. We tried some taxis and Sara always had her heart ready to jump out of her chest
Walking: Honestly, the best way to see New York is on foot. Pack comfortable shoes and prepare to rack up those steps!
Itinerary
Day 1: Get Your Bearings
Central Park: Start your trip with a stroll through Central Park. You’ll find landmarks like Bethesda Terrace and Bow Bridge. If you’re feeling energetic, rent a bike (starting at $12/hour) to cover more ground!
The Met: Make your way to the Metropolitan Museum of Art for an afternoon of culture. With over 2 million works of art spanning 5,000 years, it’s easy to get lost (both figuratively and literally, Sara can attest to this). The museum suggests a $30 donation for adults, but you can pay what you wish.
Dinner at Le Bar Italia (Option): This chic spot serves up exquisite Italian dishes that make you feel like you’re dining in a movie set. Expect to splurge around $50-$75 per person. Just remember to save room for dessert!
Day 2: The Classics
Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island: Start your day with a ferry ride from Battery Park to visit Lady Liberty. Tickets start at $24 for adults and include access to Ellis Island, where you can dive into the history of immigration. Booking tickets in advance is highly recommended!
Wall Street and the 9/11 Memorial: After returning to Manhattan, wander down Wall Street. Don’t forget to snap a photo with the Charging Bull—it's practically a rite of passage. Then, visit the 9/11 Memorial, a moving tribute to resilience. Entry to the memorial is free, but the museum costs $33 for adults. We would still recommend it.
Dinner in Chinatown: Wrap up your day with a feast in Chinatown. Joe’s Shanghai is a must-visit for their famous soup dumplings. Expect to pay around $20 per person. For dessert, grab some egg tarts from a nearby bakery—they’re worth every calorie!
Day 3: Art and Architecture
Empire State Building: Kick off the day with breathtaking views from the Empire State Building. Tickets start at $44 for adults. If you want to avoid the lines, consider booking a skip-the-line ticket or visiting early in the morning.
MoMA: With works from Van Gogh to Warhol, it’s a must-see. Admission is $25, but if you visit on Fridays from 5:30 PM to 9 PM, it’s free!
Times Square at Night: After dinner, take a trip to Times Square. Yes, it's crowded and chaotic, but that’s part of the charm. Watch the lights, take in the billboards, and maybe even catch a street performer.
Day 4: Brooklyn Bound
Brooklyn Bridge: Start your day by walking across the Brooklyn Bridge. It’s a fantastic way to see both Brooklyn and Manhattan from a unique vantage point. Plus, it’s free—just be prepared for some photo ops and potential crowd congestion.
DUMBO: Once you’re in Brooklyn, explore the DUMBO neighborhood. Known for its cobblestone streets and trendy shops, it’s the perfect place for a walk and a coffee break. The view of the Manhattan Bridge through the archway is Instagram gold.
Brooklyn Heights: Continue to Brooklyn Heights and take a stroll along the Promenade. The views of Manhattan and the Statue of Liberty are amazing!
Dinner in Williamsburg: Head over to Williamsburg for a culinary adventure. With plenty of hip restaurants. Lilia serves up delicious Italian food, while Peter Luger offers legendary steaks. Or treat yourself with some delicious Sushi like we did! Dinner here will cost between $30-$100 per person, depending on where you choose to dine, so be careful.
Day 5: Shop and Explore
Fifth Avenue Shopping: Spend the morning along Fifth Avenue, where shopping is a sport. From high-end boutiques to flagship stores like Saks and Tiffany’s, it’s a shopper’s paradise. Even if you’re just window shopping, the experience is quintessentially New York.
Bryant Park: Take a break in Bryant Park. This green oasis is perfect for a coffee break or a bite from one of the food kiosks. If you’re visiting during the winter, the park is transformed with a holiday market and ice skating rink.
Broadway Show: Your evening is reserved for a Broadway show. Whether it’s a blockbuster musical or a captivating drama, the experience is unforgettable. Ticket prices vary widely, so keep an eye out for deals at TKTS or TodayTix. Expect to pay between $50 and $300+. But we can’t stress how amazing the experience is!
Day 6: Cultural Immersion
The Met Cloisters: Visit The Met Cloisters, a branch of the Metropolitan Museum dedicated to medieval art and architecture.
Harlem: Explore the cultural heartbeat of Harlem. Tour the Apollo Theater (tours start at $25), visit the Studio Museum, and savor soul food at Sylvia’s (expect to spend around $20-$30 per person).
Evening at the Jazz Club: Cap off your day with live jazz at a renowned club like The Blue Note or Village Vanguard. Cover charges are typically $20-$30, and the atmosphere is electric. We have to say that this was Vasco’s favorite experience and the food was delicious!
Day 7: Farewell to the City
SoHo and Greenwich Village: Spend your final day exploring SoHo’s art galleries and boutique shops, and wander through the charming streets of Greenwich Village.
Washington Square Park: Chill out in Washington Square Park. Whether you’re people-watching, enjoying street performers, or just relaxing by the fountain, it’s another must.
Final Meal at Katz’s Delicatessen: End your trip with a classic New York deli experience at Katz’s Delicatessen. Order the pastrami on rye and embrace the iconic taste of New York. Expect to spend around $25 per person.
Pro tip: Go early to avoid long lines!
Remember to stay hydrated, wear comfortable shoes, and embrace the city’s fast-paced rhythm.
New York City is waiting to dazzle you, one adventure-filled day at a time!!
