13 day itinerary for New York

Itinerary

A 13-day adventure in New York City sounds like a fantastic family trip! Let’s dive into an itinerary that balances museums, parks, budget-friendly eats, and some free attractions. Get ready for a whirlwind of fun!

## Day 1: Arrival and Central Park

• Morning: Arrive in NYC! Settle into your accommodation.
• Afternoon: Head to Central Park. Explore the park’s highlights like Bethesda Terrace, The Mall, and Strawberry Fields. Let the kids run around and enjoy the playgrounds.
• Lunch: Grab a quick bite at The Loeb Boathouse (or pack a picnic).
• Evening: Stroll through the park and enjoy a casual dinner at Shake Shack (great burgers and shakes!).

## Day 2: Museums and More Parks

• Morning: Visit the American Museum of Natural History (free admission with a suggested donation).
• Lunch: Enjoy a budget-friendly meal at Café on One inside the museum.
• Afternoon: Walk to The High Line, an elevated park with beautiful views and art installations.
• Evening: Dinner at Chelsea Market—lots of affordable options to choose from!

## Day 3: Iconic NYC

• Morning: Visit the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island (consider the free Staten Island Ferry for views).
• Lunch: Pack a lunch or grab something from a food truck near Battery Park.
• Afternoon: Explore Battery Park and let the kids play.
• Evening: Dinner at Fraunces Tavern for a historical vibe (check for kids’ menus).

## Day 4: Brooklyn Adventure

• Morning: Head to Brooklyn Bridge and walk across it.
• Lunch: Stop at Grimaldi’s Pizzeria for some famous pizza.
• Afternoon: Explore Brooklyn Bridge Park—great views of Manhattan and plenty of space for the kids to play.
• Evening: Dinner at Time Out Market in Dumbo for a variety of affordable options.

## Day 5: Art and Culture

• Morning: Visit the Metropolitan Museum of Art (pay what you wish for entry).
• Lunch: Grab a bite at the museum’s café or a nearby deli.
• Afternoon: Explore Central Park again, perhaps visiting the Central Park Zoo (affordable family fun).
• Evening: Dinner at The Halal Guys for delicious and budget-friendly street food.

## Day 6: Science and Nature

• Morning: Visit the New York Hall of Science in Queens (great for kids!).
• Lunch: Eat at the museum café or nearby food trucks.
• Afternoon: Explore Flushing Meadows-Corona Park—check out the Unisphere and playgrounds.
• Evening: Dinner at Pio Pio for some tasty Peruvian chicken.

## Day 7: Day Trip to the Bronx

• Morning: Visit the Bronx Zoo (free on Wednesdays!).
• Lunch: Pack a picnic or eat at the zoo’s affordable eateries.
• Afternoon: Explore the New York Botanical Garden (free on Wednesdays).
• Evening: Dinner at Arthur Avenue for authentic Italian food (try Mike’s Deli).

## Day 8: Historical NYC

• Morning: Visit The Tenement Museum (family-friendly tours available).
• Lunch: Grab a bite at Katz’s Delicatessen (famous for pastrami sandwiches).
• Afternoon: Explore Lower East Side and visit Essex Market.
• Evening: Dinner at Russ & Daughters Café for a taste of NYC history.

## Day 9: More Museums

• Morning: Visit the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) (free on Fridays from 5:30 PM to 9 PM).
• Lunch: Eat at The Modern (the museum’s restaurant) or nearby food spots.
• Afternoon: Explore Bryant Park—great for kids with games and a carousel.
• Evening: Dinner at Joe’s Pizza for a classic NYC slice.

## Day 10: Exploring Queens

• Morning: Visit Socrates Sculpture Park (free entry).
• Lunch: Try Taverna Kyclades for some delicious Greek food.
• Afternoon: Explore Astoria Park—great views of the city and a playground.
• Evening: Dinner at Astoria Seafood for fresh seafood at reasonable prices.

## Day 11: Coney Island Fun

• Morning: Head to Coney Island. Enjoy the beach and boardwalk.
• Lunch: Grab a hot dog at Nathan’s Famous.
• Afternoon: Visit Luna Park for some amusement rides (check for family packages).
• Evening: Dinner at Tom’s Coney Island for a casual meal.

## Day 12: Last-Minute Sightseeing

• Morning: Visit The Museum at the Fashion Institute of Technology (free entry).
• Lunch: Eat at a nearby deli or café.
• Afternoon: Explore Hudson River Park—great for biking or walking.
• Evening: Dinner at Eataly for a variety of Italian options.

## Day 13: Departure

• Morning: Last-minute shopping or a stroll through Times Square.
• Lunch: Grab a quick bite at Pret A Manger or a local café.
• Afternoon: Head to the airport for departure.

Tips for Budget-Friendly Eating:

• Look for food trucks and local delis for affordable meals.
• Consider picnicking in parks with food from local markets.
• Many museums have cafés with reasonably priced options.

This itinerary balances fun, education, and relaxation, ensuring your family has a memorable time in the Big Apple! Enjoy your trip! 🍎✨