New York City is filled to the brim with world-famous landmarks, museums, restaurants, and attractions – enough to fill a lifetime! But what do you do when you only have a weekend?

If you’ve only got a few days in the Big Apple, trying to decide what to do and see can feel overwhelming. But have no fear, this guide has got you covered. We’ll dive into where to stay and the must-see attractions, as well as some top tips and tricks to make the most of your short visit.

Where to Stay

If you’ve only got a few short days to explore New York, where you choose to stay can have a huge impact on your experience. Staying in Manhattan means easy access to all the major sights, but bigger crowds and potentially higher prices. Booking a hotel in other neighborhoods may mean a more authentic experience, but you could end up spending a lot more time on public transport.

It really comes down to what you’re priorities are. If you’re a first-time visitor to the city and want to have the quintessential New York experience, then we recommend getting a hotel room in Midtown Manhattan. Many of the top attractions are within walking distance or, at the very least, a short subway ride away. You may have to battle crowded streets, but it’s worth it for the convenience of having so many iconic landmarks on your doorstep.

On the other hand, if you’re looking for a trendier and more contemporary atmosphere that’s not quite as touristy, the Brooklyn neighborhoods of Williamsburg and DUMBO are ideal bases. With spectacular views of the New York skyline, vibrant nightlife, and a wide range of shopping options, it’s only a short commute to lower Manhattan.

Before deciding on where you want to stay, think carefully about what you’re main goal for the weekend is. Are you planning on non-stop sightseeing, or are you looking for something a bit different? Also, factor in how willing you are to navigate New York’s public transport. This should help you decide where your base should be for your visit.

What to see in a weekend

There are too many attractions and landmarks to fit into a single weekend, but with some careful planning, you can fit in quite a few of them. Below is a classic itinerary for the first-time visitor. We’ll also throw in some hidden gems that are well worth a visit.

Day 1: Lower Manhattan to Midtown

Start your first day early in Manhattan to avoid the worst of the crowds and to make the most of the day. Head to Lower Manhattan at Battery Park to board a ferry to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. It can take up to 4 hours to enjoy this immersive experience, but what trip to New York is complete without a visit to this iconic landmark? Next, head to the 9/11 Memorial & Museum, which features twin reflecting pools and the names of the victims etched in bronze.

In the afternoon, you’ll want to move north to the city’s iconic skyscrapers. From one of the many observation decks, you’ll have the best chance to catch the sunset and enjoy city views. One of the most iconic is the observation deck on the 86th floor of the Empire State Building, or you could head to the Top of the Rock in the Rockefeller Center, which has spectacular views of the Empire State Building itself.

Finally, pay a visit to Times Square, which is best enjoyed at night with its flashing lights and massive billboards. Then, end your night with a Broadway show and dinner for classic conclusion to the day.

Day 2: Uptown & Brooklyn

On your second day, visit one of the many world-class museums and art galleries that New York has to offer. The Metropolitan Museum of Art (The Met) and the Museum of Natural History are both excellent options, but there are plenty of others to choose from.

From there, head for a stroll through Central Park. Visit Bethesda Fountain, Bow Bridge, and Belvedere Castle. And, if the weather permits, take a boat ride out of Loeb Boathouse.

It’s then time to leave Manhattan and cross the Brooklyn Bridge to experience a different side of New York. Explore DUMBO, Brooklyn Bridge Park, and soak up the atmosphere on the brownstone-lined streets of Brooklyn Heights and Cobble Hill.

Hidden Gems

For those looking for some unique attractions that are not on the standard tourist circuit, consider factoring these into your weekend plans:

• Museum at FIT: Located in Chelsea, this is the only museum in the city dedicated to the art of fashion.
• Tenement Museum: Take an intimate look into the lives of immigrants through preserved apartments from the 19th and 20th centuries.
• Roosevelt Island Tramway: Ensure a short scenic ride across the East River with stunning skyline views
• High Line: This elevated park was built on a former railway line and provides a scenic and artistic walking path through the city’s West Side.

Tips and Tricks for a Seamless Weekend

To help your weekend go off without a hitch, bear in mind these top tips:

• Make use of the subway: The subway is the most efficient way to travel around the city and provides a 24/7 service. Buy a MetroCard or use the contactless OMNY system to pay, and make sure you check for any service changes on the MTA website.
• Walk where possible: Walking is often much faster than catching a taxi. Just remember to keep to the right side of the sidewalk and avoid stopping suddenly.
• Invest in the New York CityPass: If you’re planning on visiting multiple major attractions, then this can be a real money-saver. It bundles admission to popular sights and effectively provides a pre-packaged itinerary.
• Wear comfortable shoes: This might sound obvious, but you really want to make sure your shoes are comfortable and well-broken in.

So, there you have it, the best way to make the most of your weekend in New York!