3 day itinerary for New York City

Itinerary

New York City is a fantastic place for families, and there’s so much to see and do without breaking the bank. Here’s a fun and affordable 3-day itinerary that’s perfect for families. Let’s dive in!

## Day 1: Exploring Manhattan

Morning: Central Park Adventure

• Start your day with a stroll through Central Park. It’s free and offers so much to see! You can visit the Central Park Zoo (tickets are affordable) or just enjoy the playgrounds. Don’t miss the Alice in Wonderland statue and the Bethesda Terrace for some great photo ops!

Lunch: Picnic in the Park

• Pack a picnic or grab some sandwiches from a nearby deli (like Zabar’s or The Halal Guys) and enjoy lunch in the park. There are plenty of grassy spots to relax and enjoy your meal.

Afternoon: Museum Time

• Head to the American Museum of Natural History. It’s a family favorite! The suggested admission means you can pay what you can afford. The dinosaur exhibits and the planetarium are sure to be a hit with the kids!

Evening: Times Square Lights

• After the museum, take a walk to Times Square. The bright lights and bustling atmosphere are mesmerizing! Grab some affordable dinner at a nearby pizza place (like Joe’s Pizza) or a food truck.

Night: Broadway for Kids

• If you’re up for it, check out a family-friendly Broadway show. Look for discounted tickets at the TKTS booth in Times Square. Shows like “The Lion King” or “Aladdin” are always a hit!

## Day 2: Brooklyn and Beyond

Morning: Brooklyn Bridge Walk

• Start your day by walking across the Brooklyn Bridge. It’s a beautiful walk with stunning views of the Manhattan skyline. Don’t forget to take lots of pictures!

Lunch: DUMBO Delights

• Once you reach Brooklyn, head to DUMBO (Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass). Grab lunch at Time Out Market or one of the many pizza spots like Grimaldi’s. Enjoy the views of the Manhattan skyline from Brooklyn Bridge Park.

Afternoon: Brooklyn Museum or Prospect Park

• Depending on your family’s interests, you can either visit the Brooklyn Museum (which has a suggested admission fee) or spend some time in Prospect Park. The park has playgrounds, a lake, and even a zoo!

Evening: Return to Manhattan

• Head back to Manhattan and explore Chinatown. It’s a great place to find affordable dinner options. Try some dumplings or noodles at a local spot.

Night: Nighttime Views

• If the kids aren’t too tired, take a quick trip to the Top of the Rock at Rockefeller Center for stunning nighttime views of the city. It’s a bit of a splurge, but the views are worth it!

## Day 3: Culture and History

Morning: Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island

• Start your day with a ferry ride to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. You can get tickets online for a good price. The ferry ride itself is a fun experience, and the views are fantastic!

Lunch: Financial District

• After your visit, head to the Financial District for lunch. There are plenty of affordable options around, like Leo’s Bagels or Eataly.

Afternoon: 9/11 Memorial & Museum

• Visit the 9/11 Memorial (free to visit) and, if your family is up for it, the 9/11 Museum (tickets are available at a discount for kids). It’s a moving experience and a great way to learn about history.

Evening: Explore the West Village

• Spend your last evening in the West Village. It’s a charming neighborhood with tree-lined streets and cute shops. Grab dinner at a family-friendly spot like Bleecker Street Pizza or The Meatball Shop.

Night: Ice Cream Treat

• End your trip with a sweet treat! Head to Morgenstern’s Finest Ice Cream for some delicious flavors. It’s a perfect way to wrap up your NYC adventure!

And there you have it! A fun, family-friendly, and affordable 3-day itinerary in New York City. Remember to wear comfortable shoes, stay hydrated, and most importantly, have fun exploring the Big Apple! If you have any questions or need more tips, feel free to ask! 🌆🍎