Wondering what to do in NYC in 3 days? Here’s the perfect NYC 3-day itinerary by a local that includes famous tourist attractions as well as off-the-beaten-path things to do in New York City in three days. The recommendations are presented by James from Travel Collecting and include all the information you need to make the most of a short visit in New York City. So, here’s what to see in New York in 3 days.

Included in this three days in New York City itinerary are:

• Central Park
• The Metropolitan Museum of Art
• Times Square
• Broadway
• The Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island
• Brooklyn Bridge
• Washington Square Park
• A comedy or jazz club in Greenwich Village
• shopping in New York City – Soho
• Walk along the High Line
• Empire State Building
• + the best places to eat

New York City is the city that never sleeps, and it still pulses with energy, history, and endless photo moments. If you’ve only got three days in NYC, this 3-day NYC itinerary is your ultimate shortcut: crafted by a longtime local, it blends iconic must-sees with hidden gems, saves you from tourist traps, and maximizes your time. Ready to see New York the smart way – without missing a thing? Let’s dive in. 

If you have more than a few days to spend in NYC, read our local’s guide to New York City. And remember that there are 20 free things to do in New York City you can enjoy.

NYC 3-day Itinerary with the best things to do in New York City in 3 days

New York City is the city that never sleeps. It is one of – if not THE – most exciting cities in the world. Being in New York is like being in a movie or TV show come to life. There is an energy and a magic that no other place in the world has.

You could easily spend three months exploring everything that the city has to offer, but in three days you can hit the highlights AND some lesser known places that will make your visit the best it could possibly be. Here is my itinerary for a perfect three-day visit to New York City.

What to see in New York City in 3 days
DAY 1

BREAKFAST: Grey Dog. Start your morning at Grey Dog, a popular casual-fare chain in NYC with locations in Union Square, West Village, Chelsea, Flatiron, and Nolita (all generally open 8:00 AM to 9:00 PM). Expect moderate wait times in the morning – if a staff member reserves your spot, great; otherwise, grab a seat when it’s free. (Menu items are modestly priced, typically $30 or less per person)

INSIDER TIP: Some branches may now serve silverware with food; the old tip to “grab condiments/cutlery” was from traveler anecdotes – check recent reviews of the specific Grey Dog branch you visit before relying on it.

MORNING: Central Park. Start your 72 hours in New York City in this amazing place. There is so much to see and do in Central Park that what you do will depend on your interests.

Highlights include the Loeb Boathouse, where you can row a boat in summer (a perfect thing on a sunny day) for $15 per hour (cash only); the Conservatory Water, where you can rent a miniature remote-control sail boat ($11 for 30 minute); Bethesda Fountain; Strawberry Fields and Imagine; Belvedere Castle; the Central Park Zoo and the nearby Alice in Wonderland Statue; and winter ice skating at the Wollman Rink.

INSIDER TIP: Time your visit to the zoo on the hour to see the Delacorte Clock play music and move around.

LUNCH: You won’t want to rush out of Central Park and there are few places for more romantic and relaxing than the Lakeside Restaurant at the Loeb’s boathouse, right on the boating lake.

INSIDER TIP: There is a casual café here if you want a quicker or cheaper option, and you still get nice lake views. Still wondering what to see in New York in 3 days? Read the next things to do in NYC in 3 days:)

AFTERNOON: After lunch in Central Park, continue your New York City in 3 days itinerary with a visit to The Met, one of the world’s greatest museums. In addition to amazing collections of art and artefacts from around the world, The Metropolitan Museum of Art has many incredible spaces to hang out and explore.

In 2025, general admission for adults is about $30, with reduced rates for students and seniors, and “pay-what-you-wish” for New York State residents and NY, NJ, and CT youth. Inside, wander through the Egyptian wing (including a full temple), European masterpieces, and the serene Chinese garden. During summer, the rooftop terrace opens for cocktails and sweeping views over Central Park – check current hours on the official site before you go. 

Have a cocktail on the summer rooftop terrace with amazing views of Central Park, enjoy a quiet moment in the indoor Chinese garden, wander through rows of Egyptian mummies and peek inside a complete Egyptian temple, admire famous European art, and much more. And remember: there are many more wonderful things to do in New York City in 3 days.

INSIDER TIP: Use the lower-level (side) entrance to the left of the main staircase for shorter lines, especially at coat check.

DINNER: Have an early dinner at Juniors in Times Square. Make sure you leave room for the authentic New York cheesecake!

EVENING: See a Broadway show. No trip to New York City is complete without catching a Broadway show. There are same-day half-price ticket booths, but for a three-day visit, don’t waste your time standing in line – buy your tickets in advance. There are always great musicals and serious plays to choose from.

After the show, spend some time in Times Square. The lights, bustle, people and energy are like nowhere else on earth. Relax on the red steps and people watch until you are ready for bed.

INSIDER TIP: Avoid the costumed characters – they can get aggressive if you don’t tip them for having their photo taken.

DAY 2

BREAKFAST: Grab a bagel to go, as you want to get an early start as you only have 3 days in NYC and so much to see and do.

INSIDER TIP: The most common filling is cream cheese – this should be very thick! An “everything bagel” refers to the toppings (sesame seeds, poppy seeds, onion flakes, etc.).

MORNING: Start early: take the ferry via Statue City Cruises (the only official operator) from Battery Park to Liberty Island and Ellis Island.

In 2025, combined adult ferry + general grounds admission tickets are typically around $55 (varies by tour package) Attraction Tickets. You can choose options that include access to the pedestal or, if booked far in advance, the crown (which is limited and often sells out months ahead).

Insider tip: Aim for the first ferry in the morning (often before 9:00 AM) to beat the crowds – lines build as the day progresses. Also, beware of unauthorized ticket sellers near Battery Park; always book via the official provider (Statue City Cruises) to avoid scams.

LUNCH: Battery Garden restaurant. This is great restaurant is a little hidden at the eastern end of Battery Park. In nice weather, get seats outside for views of the harbor and the Statue of Liberty – there is pl

AFTERNOON: Walk across the Brooklyn Bridge for iconic views of Manhattan from the Bridge and from Brooklyn Heights across the East River. Read our complete local’s guide to Brooklyn. so that you make the most of your 3 day trip to NYC.

INSIDER TIP: Take the subway to Brooklyn Heights and then walk back across the Brooklyn Bridge towards Manhattan. Most people walk from Manhattan, but if you do it in reverse, you get Manhattan views the whole way. Take the 5 train from Battery Park to Fulton Street station and the A or C to High Street in Brooklyn Heights.

Washington Square Park. Head to Greenwich Village and relax before dinner with great people watching in Washington Square Park.

DINNER: La Lanterna. This cute Italian restaurant is opposite the park. It has great pizza.

INSIDER TIP: Ask for a table in the covered garden in the back. This is a very romantic spot, but also good for non-couples.

EVENING: Go to a comedy or jazz club in Greenwich Village. The village isn’t the bohemian place it used to be, but you can still catch great jazz at the Blue Note or stand up comedy (of varying quality) at one of several venues on and around Macdougal Street.

You will need a reservation for the Blue Note, but won’t for the comedy clubs. You can also often catch live (non-jazz) music at clubs here.

DAY 3

BREAKFAST: Balthazar. Feel like you are in Paris at this super chic Soho restaurant. Breakfast here is a real treat.

INSIDER TIP: Ask for a bench seat – they are more comfortable and you people watch more easily. Also, get the bread basket – it’s enormous (so share) – and delicious.

MORNING: Shopping. The shopping in New York City has no rival. Choose from hitting the designer stores in Soho or have everything all together at the original Macy’s. It will definitely be an unforgettable long weekend in New York.

INSIDER TIP: In Soho, the cheaper stores are on Broadway between Houston and Canal.

LUNCH: If you were shopping in Soho, head to Katz’s Deli for a pastrami sandwich, or if you were at Macy’s, head out to Herald Square for an authentic New York hot dog from a roadside hotdog stand. Katz’s Deli is one of the last truly authentic Jewish delis and it is a real treat. You will probably NOT be able to eat the entire sandwich.

INSIDER TIP: When you enter Katz’s, you will get a ticket – don’t lose it! You need it at the end when you pay on the way out.

AFTERNOON: Walk along the High Line. This is a park created along an abandoned elevated freight railway line. It runs from Gansevoort Street in the Meatpacking District to West 34th Street, between 10th and 12th Avenues.

INSIDER TIP: Start at the southern end and walk north – most people tend to walk this way, so you will be going with the traffic.

Late Afternoon → Evening: Empire State Building & Vatan Dinner + Nightcap

As evening approaches, head to the Empire State Building observation decks. In 2025, ticket pricing is dynamic / surge-based, meaning prices may exceed $100 during peak sunset hours (daytime entry is generally in the $79 to $96 range)
New York Post. Purchase timed-entry tickets in advance to guarantee a slot.

After viewing, walk to Vatan, a cozy Indian vegetarian restaurant in Midtown (409 3rd Ave). As of now, it primarily serves dinner only (starting in early evening) and offers a fixed menu, potentially all-you-can-eat style in some versions. Be sure to reserve ahead and ask for the atmospheric downstairs seating if available.

For your final night, if you still have energy, consider heading to The Aviary (Mandarin Oriental, 35th floor) for a cocktail with sweeping views of Manhattan – check current hours and booking requirements. 

As you can see, if you are planning to spend 3 days in New York City, you have enough time to visit many wonderful New York City tourist attractions. This 3 days in New York itinerary has all you need to make the most of your visit!

If you need help creating your itinerary, read this article on how to create an itinerary for all your trips!

FAQ: Planning the Perfect 3 Days in New York City

1. How many days do you need to see New York City?

You could spend weeks exploring New York City, but three days is enough to see the highlights and get a real feel for the city’s rhythm. A well-planned 3-day NYC itinerary covers world-famous attractions like Central Park, the Statue of Liberty, and the Empire State Building, while still leaving time for local favorites and off-the-beaten-path experiences.

2. What is the best way to get around New York City in 3 days?

The subway is the fastest and most affordable way to explore NYC. Pair it with walking – you’ll see more and avoid traffic. Use a MetroCard or tap-to-pay with OMNY for convenience. Avoid driving in Manhattan; parking is scarce and expensive. Rideshare apps are best for late-night trips or when it’s raining.

3. How much does it cost to visit New York City attractions?

Ticket prices vary by attraction:

Statue of Liberty + Ellis Island: about $25–$55, depending on access (grounds, pedestal, or crown)

Empire State Building: from $79, with higher prices for peak sunset hours due to dynamic pricing

The Metropolitan Museum of Art (The Met): $30 for adults, discounts for students and seniors

Broadway shows: range from $60 for weekday matinees to $200+ for premium seats
Consider attraction passes like New York CityPASS or Go City Explorer Pass to save up to 40% if you plan to visit multiple paid attractions.

4. What are the best free things to do in New York City?

There are dozens of amazing free things to do in New York City: stroll through Central Park, walk the High Line, cross the Brooklyn Bridge, visit Times Square at night, and people-watch in Washington Square Park. You can also ride the Staten Island Ferry for free views of the Statue of Liberty and the skyline.

5. How can I avoid tourist scams in NYC?

Only buy tickets from official sources. For the Statue of Liberty, use Statue City Cruises – the exclusive authorized ferry operator. Avoid ticket sellers in Battery Park or near subway exits. Skip pushy costumed characters in Times Square unless you’re ready to tip, and be cautious with “free comedy show” offers that often include hidden cover charges.

6. What should I wear for a 3-day trip to New York City?

Comfort comes first. You’ll walk a lot, so wear comfortable sneakers or shoes. Layer your clothing – temperatures can change quickly between subway, street, and indoor venues. In summer, lightweight clothes and sunscreen are essentials; in winter, bring a warm coat, hat, and gloves. For evening outings, a smart-casual look works perfectly.

7. When is the best time to visit New York City?

The best times to visit NYC are spring (April–June) and fall (September–November) – pleasant weather and fewer crowds. Summer brings outdoor concerts and rooftop bars, while winter offers festive lights and skating rinks. Every season has its charm, but booking major attractions and accommodations early is always smart.

8. Is a New York Pass or CityPASS worth it for 3 days?

Yes, if you’re visiting several paid attractions. The New York CityPASS and Go City Pass both include top sights like The Met, the Empire State Building, and the Statue of Liberty. They save money and time by skipping ticket lines. Compare each pass based on what’s on your personal 3-day New York City itinerary.

9. Can I explore New York City in 3 days with kids?

Definitely! Central Park Zoo, the American Museum of Natural History, and the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum are perfect for families. Teens enjoy walking the Brooklyn Bridge, exploring The High Line, or visiting interactive exhibits at The Met. Add breaks and snacks — NYC sightseeing days can be long.

10. Is three days enough to see everything in New York City?

Three days won’t cover everything, but you’ll see the most iconic places. This 3-day New York City itinerary includes the Statue of Liberty, Central Park, The Met, Times Square, Broadway, Brooklyn Bridge, and more – giving you a perfect mix of sightseeing, dining, and local life. Add extra days if you can to explore deeper into neighborhoods like Greenwich Village or Williamsburg. 

About the author

James from Travel Collecting spent several months in New York City as a tourist before falling in love with a New Yorker (and New York) and getting married. He has lived in NYC for over 11 years. Follow his stories on Facebook, Instagram, and Pinterest as well.