5 day itinerary for New York

Itinerary

New York City is such an exciting place for families, especially with teenagers. There’s so much to see and do, and I’m thrilled to help you plan a fun-filled 5-day itinerary. Let’s dive in!

## Day 1: Arrival and Exploring Midtown

Morning:

• Arrive in NYC and check into your hotel. If you’re staying in Midtown, you’ll be close to many attractions!
• Grab breakfast at a classic New York diner. Try the Ellen’s Stardust Diner for a fun experience with singing waitstaff!

Afternoon:

• Head to Times Square. The bright lights and bustling atmosphere are a must-see. Snap some photos and maybe pick up a souvenir.
• Walk to the Top of the Rock at Rockefeller Center for stunning views of the city. The observation deck is perfect for those Instagram shots!

Evening:

• Have dinner at Carmine’s, a family-style Italian restaurant in the Theater District. The portions are huge, so you can share!
• If you’re up for it, catch a Broadway show! Check out what’s playing and see if there’s something that interests your family.

## Day 2: Central Park and Museums

Morning:

• Start your day with breakfast at Sarabeth’s near Central Park. Their pancakes are a hit!
• Spend the morning exploring Central Park. Rent bikes or take a leisurely stroll. Don’t miss the Bethesda Terrace and the Bow Bridge.

Afternoon:

• Visit the American Museum of Natural History. The dinosaur exhibits and the planetarium are sure to impress your teens!
• Grab lunch at the museum’s café or nearby at Shake Shack for some delicious burgers.

Evening:

• Head to the Upper West Side for dinner at Jacob’s Pickles, known for its comfort food and great atmosphere.
• If you have energy left, take a walk along the Hudson River at Riverside Park.

## Day 3: Downtown Adventures

Morning:

• Have breakfast at Balthazar in SoHo, a charming French bistro.
• Explore SoHo for some shopping and unique boutiques. Your teens will love the trendy shops!

Afternoon:

• Visit the 9/11 Memorial & Museum. It’s a poignant experience, and it’s important to reflect on this part of history.
• Afterward, take a stroll through Battery Park and enjoy views of the Statue of Liberty.

Evening:

• Head to Brooklyn via the Brooklyn Bridge. It’s a great walk with fantastic views!
• Have dinner at Juliana’s Pizza in Brooklyn. Their pizza is often rated among the best in NYC!
• After dinner, take a walk along the Brooklyn Heights Promenade for stunning skyline views.

## Day 4: Culture and Fun

Morning:

• Start with breakfast at The Bagel Store in Williamsburg for some iconic New York bagels.
• Visit the Metropolitan Museum of Art. The museum is huge, so pick a few exhibits that interest your family.

Afternoon:

• Head to The High Line, an elevated park built on a former railway track. It’s a unique way to see the city and has beautiful gardens and art installations.
• Grab lunch at Chelsea Market, where you can find a variety of food options to satisfy everyone’s cravings.

Evening:

• Explore Greenwich Village. Have dinner at The Spotted Pig, a cozy gastropub.
• If your teens are up for it, check out a comedy show at the Comedy Cellar for some laughs!

## Day 5: Iconic NYC

Morning:

• Enjoy breakfast at Jack’s Wife Freda, a popular spot with a great vibe.
• Visit the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. Take the ferry from Battery Park and explore these iconic landmarks.

Afternoon:

• After returning, head to Wall Street and see the Charging Bull statue.
• Have lunch at Fraunces Tavern, a historic spot with a great atmosphere.

Evening:

• Spend your last evening in Times Square again, soaking in the energy one last time.
• Have a farewell dinner at Hard Rock Cafe or Planet Hollywood for a fun, themed dining experience.
• If you have time, consider a night-time visit to the Empire State Building for breathtaking views of the city lights.

Tips:

• Make sure to check for any special events or exhibitions happening during your visit.
• Consider getting a CityPASS if you plan to visit multiple attractions; it can save you money!
• Don’t forget to take lots of photos and enjoy the moments together!

I hope this itinerary helps you have an unforgettable family trip to New York City! If you have any specific interests or preferences, feel free to let me know, and I can adjust the plans accordingly. Happy travels! 🌆✨