BUDGET TRAVEL STYLE: 3 DAYS IN NEW YORK CITY(USA)

A city that never sleeps, promises an unforgettable – on a budget – experience. Don’t forget to save your QR code and bring it with you on your trip!

Day 1: Manhattan Marvels and Culinary Delights

Morning Exploration: Central Park and Breakfast in Midtown

8:00 AM – Begin your NYC journey in Central Park

Take a morning stroll through Central Park, an oasis in the heart of Manhattan. Breathe in the fresh air and enjoy the scenic beauty.

Our Suggested Path:

  • Start at The Pond:
    • Overview: Begin your journey at The Pond, a serene body of water located in the southeastern part of Central Park.
    • Highlights: Enjoy the views of the city skyline and the Gapstow Bridge. It’s a peaceful spot to start your exploration.
  • Wander through the Gapstow Bridge:
    • Overview: Cross the Gapstow Bridge, an iconic stone bridge that offers picturesque views of the city. It’s a popular spot for photography.
    • Highlights: Take in the reflections on the water and appreciate the architecture of the bridge.
  • Stroll along the Literary Walk:
    • Overview: Walk along the Literary Walk, a tree-lined promenade with statues of famous literary figures.
    • Highlights: Admire the sculptures of authors like William Shakespeare and Robert Burns. It’s a peaceful path surrounded by greenery.
  • Visit Bethesda Terrace and Fountain:
    • Overview: Reach Bethesda Terrace, a grand staircase that leads down to the Bethesda Fountain.
    • Highlights: Marvel at the intricate design of the terrace, and don’t miss the Bethesda Fountain with its Angel of the Waters sculpture.
  • Boat Ride on The Lake:
    • Overview: Head to The Lake and enjoy a boat ride. Rowboats and gondolas are available for rent.
    • Highlights: Take in the scenic views of the Bow Bridge and the surrounding landscape from the water.
  • Cross the Bow Bridge:
    • Overview: Walk across the Bow Bridge, one of Central Park’s most iconic and photogenic spots.
    • Highlights: Enjoy panoramic views of the city, including the skyline and the lake. The bridge is particularly beautiful in the fall.
  • Explore The Ramble:
    • Overview: Enter The Ramble, a wooded area in the park with winding paths, rustic bridges, and diverse flora.
    • Highlights: Immerse yourself in nature, birdwatch, and discover hidden gems like the rustic shelter Belvedere Castle.
  • Belvedere Castle:
    • Overview: Reach Belvedere Castle, perched on Vista Rock. The castle offers stunning views of the park and the city.
    • Highlights: Climb to the top for panoramic views, and explore the Henry Luce Nature Observatory within the castle.

10:00 AM – Breakfast at wo Little Red Hens

  • Overview: This bakery is known for its classic American desserts, including breakfast pastries and cakes.
  • Address: 1652 2nd Ave, New York, NY 10028
  • Suggested Dishes: Indulge in their cinnamon rolls and muffins.
  • Average Price: $5-15 per person

11:00 AM – Visit The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA)

  • Explore the iconic Museum of Modern Art (MoMA), home to an impressive collection of contemporary and modern art.
  • Address: MoMA, 11 W 53rd St, New York, NY 10019

MoMA Highlihts:

  • Starry Night by Vincent van Gogh: This iconic painting depicts a starry night sky over a small town. Van Gogh’s use of swirling brushstrokes and vibrant colors makes it one of the most recognized and celebrated works in art history.
  • Les Demoiselles d’Avignon by Pablo Picasso: Picasso’s groundbreaking painting is a cornerstone of modern art. The piece is known for its radical and fragmented depiction of five nude women and marked the beginning of Cubism.
  • The Persistence of Memory by Salvador Dalí: Dalí’s surreal masterpiece features melting clocks draped over various objects in a dreamlike landscape. The painting is a hallmark of Surrealism and reflects Dalí’s fascination with the fluidity of time.
  • Campbell’s Soup Cans by Andy Warhol: Warhol’s series of 32 paintings depicting Campbell’s Soup cans is a key work in the Pop Art movement. The repetition of the everyday object challenges traditional notions of artistic expression.
  • The Dance (I) by Henri Matisse: Matisse’s vibrant and dynamic painting captures the essence of dance through the use of bold colors and flowing lines. It’s a testament to Matisse’s mastery of color and form.
  • Water Lilies by Claude Monet: MoMA features several works from Monet’s Water Lilies series. These paintings, inspired by Monet’s own water garden, showcase his fascination with light, color, and nature.
  • Composition in Red, Blue, and Yellow by Piet Mondrian: Mondrian’s abstract masterpiece is a quintessential example of De Stijl art. The painting features geometric shapes and primary colors arranged in a grid, emphasizing simplicity and purity.
  • Guernica by Pablo Picasso: Picasso’s powerful and emotionally charged mural depicts the horrors of the bombing of the town of Guernica during the Spanish Civil War. The painting is a poignant anti-war statement.
  • The Starry Night by Henri Matisse: This captivating painting by Matisse is known for its dreamlike depiction of a starry night. Matisse’s use of color and form creates a visually stunning and immersive experience.
  • A Starry Night by Jackson Pollock: Pollock’s innovative drip painting technique is showcased in A Starry Night. The canvas is filled with energetic and chaotic splatters of paint, capturing the spontaneity and expressiveness of Abstract Expressionism.

Afternoon Adventure: Times Square and The High Line

1:00 PM – Lunch at Sophie’s Cuban Cuisine

  • Overview: Sophie’s offers affordable Cuban cuisine in a casual setting.
  • Address: 21 W 45th St, New York, NY 10036
  • Suggested Dishes: Try their Cuban sandwiches or the Ropa Vieja platter.
  • Average Price: $10-15 per person

3:00 PM – Explore Times Square

Take a stroll through the vibrant and bustling Times Square. Admire the billboards, soak in the energy, and maybe catch a Broadway show if time allows.

5:00 PM – Wander The High Line

Explore The High Line, an elevated park built on a historic freight rail line. Enjoy the unique perspective of the city and discover public art installations along the way.

Evening Delights: Dinner in Chelsea and Chelsea Market

7:00 PM – Dinner and exploration at Chelsea Market

Conclude your evening at Chelsea Market, a food and shopping paradise. It has a dynamic mix of vendors, and the offerings may change. It’s always a good idea to explore the market and discover new options based on your preferences. Sample local treats and browse unique shops before calling it a night.

Here are some popular places to consider for dinner inside Chelsea Market:

  • Los Tacos No. 1:
    • Cuisine: Authentic Mexican street tacos.
    • Highlights: Known for its flavorful tacos, including the adobada and carne asada.
  • Cull & Pistol:
    • Cuisine: Seafood-focused with a raw bar.
    • Highlights: Offers a variety of fresh seafood dishes, including lobster rolls and oysters.
  • Miznon:
    • Cuisine: Mediterranean street food.
    • Highlights: Known for its flavorful pitas, including the roasted cauliflower and lamb options.
  • Creamline:
    • Cuisine: Classic American comfort food.
    • Highlights: Offers burgers, sandwiches, and shakes using locally-sourced ingredients.
  • Takumi Taco:
    • Cuisine: Japanese-inspired tacos.
    • Highlights: Fusion tacos with a variety of fillings, such as miso chicken and pork belly.
  • Doughnuttery:
    • Cuisine: Gourmet mini doughnuts.
    • Highlights: Choose from a variety of unique flavored mini doughnuts, including cinnamon sugar and lavender.
  • Very Fresh Noodles:
    • Cuisine: Hand-pulled noodles.
    • Highlights: Offers made-to-order noodle dishes with various toppings and broths.
  • Beyond Sushi:
    • Cuisine: Vegan sushi and plant-based dishes.
    • Highlights: Creative and flavorful vegan sushi rolls with a variety of fillings.
  • Dizengoff:
    • Cuisine: Israeli-style hummus.
    • Highlights: Known for its creamy hummus bowls with various toppings.
  • Seed + Mill:
    • Cuisine: Artisanal halva and tahini.
    • Highlights: Offers a variety of halva and tahini-based desserts and treats.

Day 2: Cultural Immersion and Iconic Landmarks

Morning Exploration: The Met and Upper East Side

9:00 AM – Starting at Joe Coffee Company

  • Overview: A local coffee shop chain with a selection of breakfast items.
  • Address: 1045 Lexington Ave, New York, NY 10021
  • Suggested Orders: Enjoy their coffee along with a breakfast sandwich or pastry.
  • Average Price: $8-12 per person

10:00 AM – Visit The Metropolitan Museum of Art (The Met)

  • Discover art spanning over 5,000 years at The Met. From ancient artifacts to contemporary masterpieces, this museum has it all.

Our Suggested path:

  • The Great Hall:
    • Take a moment to appreciate the grandeur of The Great Hall. Pick up a map or check for any temporary exhibitions.
  • Egyptian Art (The Temple of Dendur):
    • Head to the Egyptian Art section on the first floor to see the Temple of Dendur. It’s a reconstructed Egyptian temple gifted to the United States.
  • Greek and Roman Art:
    • Explore the Greek and Roman Art section, including the impressive collection of sculptures and artifacts.
  • European Paintings (European Masterpieces):
    • Move to the second floor to explore European paintings. Highlights include works by Vermeer, Rembrandt, and Van Gogh.
  • The American Wing:
    • Visit The American Wing to see iconic American art, including paintings by John Singer Sargent and decorative arts from different periods.
  • Asian Art (Asian Art Galleries):
    • Head to the Asian Art section, where you can explore a diverse range of art from China, Japan, Korea, and other Asian cultures.
  • Islamic Art (Islamic Art Galleries):
    • Explore the Islamic Art galleries, which feature stunning artifacts from the Islamic world.
  • Ancient Near Eastern Art:
    • Visit the Ancient Near Eastern Art section to see artifacts from Mesopotamia, Persia, and other ancient civilizations.
  • American Decorative Arts:
    • Take a stroll through the American Decorative Arts section to see furniture, silverware, and decorative items from various periods.
  • European Decorative Arts (Period Rooms):
    • Explore the European Decorative Arts section, including the period rooms that showcase interiors from different time periods.
  • Musical Instruments:
    • Visit the Musical Instruments section to see a fascinating collection of instruments from around the world.
  • Modern and Contemporary Art:
    • Head to the Modern and Contemporary Art sections, including works by artists like Picasso, Warhol, and more.
  • The Rooftop Garden (Seasonal):
    • If the weather allows, visit the rooftop garden for a stunning view of Central Park and the Manhattan skyline.

Afternoon Adventure: Empire State Building and Grand Central Terminal

1:00 PM – Explore the Upper East Side

  • Wander through the elegant streets of the Upper East Side. Admire the architecture, visit boutique shops, and feel the sophisticated atmosphere.

3:00 PM – Visit the Empire State Building

  • Ascend to the top of the iconic Empire State Building for panoramic views of the city.
  • Address: Empire State Building, 20 W 34th St, New York, NY 10001

5:00 PM – Explore Grand Central Terminal

Step into the historic Grand Central Terminal. Marvel at the celestial ceiling, explore the shops, and soak in the grandeur of this transportation hub.

Evening Delights: Dinner in Midtown and Broadway Show

7:00 PM – Dinner at Pizza Suprema

  • Overview: A classic New York pizzeria known for its tasty slices.
  • Address: 413 8th Ave, New York, NY 10001
  • Suggested Dishes: Grab a classic New York slice or a whole pizza.
  • Average Cost: $3-5 per slice

9:00 PM – Broadway Show at the Majestic Theatre

  • End your night with a Broadway show. Check the schedule for a captivating performance at the Majestic Theatre.
  • Address: Majestic Theatre, 245 W 44th St, New York, NY 10036

Getting cheap tickets for Broadway shows, including those at the Majestic Theatre, often requires a combination of strategies and flexibility. Here are some tips to help you find affordable tickets:

  • TKTS Booth: Visit the TKTS booth in Times Square for same-day discounted Broadway tickets. These tickets are typically for evening performances and can be up to 50% off.
  • Lottery: Some Broadway shows, including those at the Majestic Theatre, offer lotteries for discounted tickets. Check the official website of the specific show for lottery details.
  • Rush Tickets: Some shows have rush ticket policies, where a limited number of discounted tickets are available on the day of the performance. Check the show’s website or contact the box office for details.
  • Digital Lotteries: Some shows conduct digital lotteries where you can enter online for a chance to purchase discounted tickets. This is often done through a lottery app or the show’s website.
  • Student and Military Discounts: Broadway shows often offer discounted tickets for students and members of the military. Check the show’s official website or contact the box office to inquire about available discounts.
  • Discount Ticket Websites: Explore reputable discount ticket websites, such as TodayTix, BroadwayBox, and Ticketmaster’s Deals page. These platforms may offer discounted tickets for select performances.
  • Subscription Services: Consider subscription services like BroadwayBox or Playbill to receive alerts about discounted tickets and special offers.
  • Midweek Performances: Tickets for midweek performances (Tuesday through Thursday) are often more affordable than weekend performances.
  • Off-Peak Seasons: Broadway tickets might be more affordable during off-peak seasons or non-holiday periods.
  • Box Office Discounts: Visit the box office directly, especially on the day of the performance, to inquire about any last-minute discounts or rush tickets.
  • Group Discounts: Check if the show offers group discounts. Sometimes purchasing tickets as part of a group can lead to reduced prices.
  • Follow Social Media: Follow the official social media accounts of the show or the theater for announcements of special promotions or discounted ticket offers.

Day 3: Harbor Views and Cultural Gems

Morning Exploration: Statue of Liberty and Battery Park

8:30 AM – Start your day at Battery Park strolling and then take a ferry to see the Statue of Liberty

Embark on a ferry to visit the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. Take in the breathtaking views of the Statue and learn about the immigrant experience.

12:00 AM – Lunch at Burger Burger

  • Overview: A casual spot focusing on burgers and comfort food.
  • Address: 77 Pearl St, New York, NY 10004
  • Suggested Dishes: Choose from their variety of burgers and hand-cut fries.
  • Average Cost: $10-15 per person

Afternoon Adventure: The Oculus and 9/11 Memorial

1:30 PM – Visit One World Observatory

  • Ascend to the top of One World Trade Center for awe-inspiring views of the city skyline.
  • Address: One World Observatory, 285 Fulton St, New York, NY 10007

3:00 PM – Explore The Oculus

  • Visit The Oculus, a striking transportation hub and shopping center near the World Trade Center site.
  • Address: The Oculus, Westfield World Trade Center, 185 Greenwich St, New York, NY 10007

4:30 PM – 9/11 Memorial

  • Take a moment of reflection at the 9/11 Memorial. Explore the grounds and visit the museum to gain a deeper understanding of the tragic events.
  • Address: National September 11 Memorial & Museum, 180 Greenwich St, New York, NY 10007

Evening Farewell: Dinner in Tribeca and Brooklyn Bridge Walk

6:00 PM – Discovering Tribeca neighorhood

  • Start at Washington Market Park:
    • Begin your exploration at Washington Market Park, a green oasis in Tribeca. Take a stroll, enjoy the greenery, and relax in this community park.
  • Head to Greenwich Street:
    • Walk south on Greenwich Street. This street is lined with historic buildings and offers a glimpse into Tribeca’s architectural charm.
  • Visit the Tribeca Film Center:
    • Check out the Tribeca Film Center at 375 Greenwich St, founded by Robert De Niro. It’s a hub for the film industry and a landmark in the area.
  • Explore Duane Park:
    • Continue to Duane Park, a charming pocket park with benches and greenery. It’s a peaceful spot to take a break and enjoy the surroundings.
  • Stroll Along Duane Street:
    • Walk along Duane Street, known for its cobblestone streets and historic architecture. You’ll find a mix of boutiques, cafes, and art galleries.
  • Visit the African Burial Ground National Monument:
    • Head east to the African Burial Ground National Monument. This historical site preserves the burial ground for free and enslaved Africans in the 17th and 18th centuries.
  • Explore Hudson River Park:
    • Walk west towards Hudson River Park. Enjoy scenic views of the Hudson River, relax by the waterfront, or take a bike ride along the Hudson River Greenway.
  • Tribeca’s Art Galleries:
    • Tribeca is home to several art galleries. Explore some of them along your route, such as Apexart or Postmasters Gallery, to appreciate the local art scene.
  • Visit Pier 25:
    • Head towards Pier 25 in Hudson River Park. This pier features recreational activities, mini-golf, and great views of the river and the city skyline.
  • Tribeca’s Historic District:
    • Wander through the historic district, especially along Harrison Street and Franklin Street. You’ll encounter beautiful cast-iron buildings that characterize the area.

8:00 PM – Dinner at Bubby’s Tribeca

  • Overview: A comfort food spot known for its classic American dishes and pies.
  • Address: 120 Hudson St, New York, NY 10013
  • Suggested Dishes: Enjoy their burgers, mac and cheese, or a slice of pie.
  • Average Cost: $15-25 per person

9:00 PM – Brooklyn Bridge Walk

Conclude your NYC adventure with a walk across the Brooklyn Bridge. Witness the skyline transform as the city lights up, creating a magical ambiance. Take Instagrammable photos.