A week might seem like a lot of time to traverse one place, but when it comes to New York City, seven days is a perfect amount of time. Sure, you still won’t be able to see everything, but this packed itinerary gets you to all five boroughs and some of the City’s most iconic sights, both well-known and under the radar.
Day 1: Midtown, Central Park and Upper East Side Favorites
Get acquainted with some of Manhattan’s famous spots, like Rockefeller Center, Central Park, the Metropolitan Museum of Art and a legendary Upper East Side hotel.
La Grande Boucherie. Photo: Melissa Hom and Francesco Sapienza
Morning
Stop for breakfast at La Grande Boucherie or Black Seed Bagels
La Grande Boucherie: 145 W. 53rd St., Midtown, Manhattan
Black Seed Bagels: 30 Rockefeller Plaza, Concourse Level, Midtown, Manhattan
If you’re in the mood for a leisurely breakfast, settle into the lavish dining room or plant-lined covered courtyard at La Grande Boucherie. The menu leans into French classics like pain au chocolat, croque madame and fluffy omelets with goat cheese and spinach.
For something faster, head to Black Seed for a Montreal-style bagel, located right at the Rockefeller Center lower-level concourse. Whether you keep it simple with cream cheese or go all in on its signature pastrami-spiced salmon topped with pickled green tomatoes and red onions, you have a quick grab-and-go option for exploring the area.
If you’re coming from La Grande Boucherie, walk to Rockefeller Center.
Rockefeller Center. Photo: Lucia Vazquez
Explore Rockefeller Center for shopping and sightseeing
48th Street to 51st Street between Fifth and Sixth Avenues, Midtown, Manhattan
It’s easy to get lost in the bustle of Rockefeller Center, which is home to more than 40 retailers and dozens of eateries. In the winter months, catch a glimpse of the famous ice rink; no matter the season, make time for Top of the Rock atop 30 Rockefeller Plaza, which has three levels of observation decks with 360-degree views of NYC.
Walk uptown on Fifth Avenue from Rockefeller Center to 59th Street (Central Park South).
Courtesy, Sarabeth's
Afternoon
Opt for lunch at Sarabeth’s on Central Park South
40 Central Park South, Midtown, Manhattan
This New York institution has been feeding patrons since 1981. While Sarabeth’s is known for its weekend brunches, its lunch menu is promising any day of the week. Nosh on favorites like the chopped salad, lobster roll and roasted turkey club steps from Central Park and other nearby attractions.
Cross the street and enter Central Park.
Central Park. Photo: Lucia Vazquez
Stroll through Central Park
See some of Central Park’s most treasured sights, including the Pond (near 59th Street), Gapstow Bridge (around 62nd Street), the Mall (starting at about 70th Street), Bethesda Terrace (roughly 73rd Street) and Conservatory Water (between 73rd and 75th Streets).
The Metropolitan Museum of Art. Photo: Kate Glicksberg
Visit the Metropolitan Museum of Art
Fifth Ave. at 82nd St., Upper East Side, Manhattan
It’s easy to see why the Met ranks among the most celebrated museums in the world. Its collection stretches across more than 5,000 years of human creativity, from ancient civilizations to bold contemporary works. At more than 2 million square feet, it can also feel a bit daunting. Rather than attempting to conquer the whole museum, pick two or three exhibitions, or focus on a particular wing and spend a couple hours taking it in at a relaxed pace. To figure out what you’d like to do, avail yourself of our overview of the museum, as well as our guides to highlights from the permanent collection and accessibility.
Your next stop is six blocks downtown and one block east of the Met, on 76th Street.
Evening
Dowling’s at the Carlyle. Photo: Evan Angelastro
Dine surrounded by art at Dowling’s at the Carlyle
35 E. 76th St., Upper East Side, Manhattan
Continue your art journey at Dowling’s restaurant inside the Carlyle hotel, which displays more than 200 works by local artists. Start with oysters from the raw bar or wild Burgundy escargots before moving onto mains like the steak Diane, flambéed with cognac, or the Dover sole, prepared tableside.
Bemelmans Bar. Photo: Daniel Harel
Indulge in Upper East Side luxury and live music at Bemelmans Bar
35 E. 76th St., Upper East Side, Manhattan
With its live jazz, whimsical murals and legendary martinis, Bemelmans, also in the Carlyle hotel, is a New York classic and worthy of an evening out. You can hear live music nightly, including a pianist at 5:30pm, followed by a jazz trio starting at 9pm.
Day 2: Harlem and City History
After breakfast in Midtown, you’ll be traveling uptown to experience the Museum of the City of New York, spending an afternoon in Harlem and then heading back down for an evening in Gramercy.
Morning
Ole & Steen. Photo: Evan Sung
Stop for breakfast at Altair or Ole & Steen in Bryant Park
Altair: 351 W. 38th St., in the Arlo Midtown hotel, Midtown, Manhattan
Ole & Steen in Bryant Park: Sixth Ave. at 40th St., Midtown, Manhattan
Altair’s glass-enclosed atrium makes for a beautiful place to begin the day. The sun-drenched room feels inviting in any season, especially when paired with dishes like buttermilk pancakes with whipped mascarpone or pan con tomate with ricotta and fried eggs. If you’re after something lighter, the café also puts out a tempting selection of freshly baked pastries.
If you want something lighter or quicker, Danish-style bakery Ole & Steen is a solid bet. Start your day with a vanilla danish or sourdough roll with butter and Havarti.
Take the 2 or 3 from Times Sq–42 St to 110 St–Malcolm X Plaza.
Museum of the City of New York. Photo: Lucía Vázquez
Visit the Museum of the City of New York
1220 Fifth Ave., East Harlem, Manhattan
To learn about New York City while also keeping a tight schedule, the Museum of the City of New York (MCNY) is an excellent primer before a visit to Harlem. The Metropolitan Museum of Art is also along this stretch of Fifth Avenue known as the Museum Mile, and while the MCNY is much smaller, it is extensive enough to offer a fascinating look at how New York became what it is today. Exhibitions explore everything from the City’s early history to the cultural movements that have shaped the neighborhoods. Through photography, art, artifacts and immersive displays, visitors get a deeper sense of the people and stories that have defined the City for centuries.
Take the 2 or 3 from 110 St–Malcolm X Plaza to 125 St. You can also take the uptown M1 bus, which reads “Harlem 147 St via Madison Ave,” from Madison Avenue and 104th Street to the Madison Avenue and 125th Street stop, then walk the rest of the way.
Afternoon
Sylvia’s Restaurant. Photo: Brittany Petronella
Dig into soul food at classic Harlem restaurant Sylvia’s
328 Malcolm X Blvd., Harlem, Manhattan
Sylvia’s has been a cornerstone of Harlem’s dining scene for more than six decades, making it an essential stop for anyone exploring the neighborhood. The kitchen turns out beloved soul food classics, like smothered pork chops, crispy fried chicken and waffles, and perfectly seasoned grilled catfish. Be sure to pile your plate with traditional sides, too, like collard greens, candied yams and black-eyed peas. Dessert here is a must, so save room for banana pudding or red velvet cake.
Studio Museum in Harlem. Photo: Albert Vecerka/Esto
Visit the Studio Museum in Harlem
144 W. 125th St., Harlem, Manhattan
A five-minute walk from Sylvia’s will take you to the Studio Museum in Harlem, which recently reopened in a striking new building on 125th Street. The updates feature welcoming community spaces and airy galleries that showcase everything from important historic works to multimedia pieces by emerging artists. The museum is devoted to art created by and about people of African descent, and for decades it has played a pivotal role in launching the careers of Black artists through its renowned artist-in-residence program. For more details, don’t miss our guide to this cultural space.
Evening
Gramercy Park. Photo: David Black
Stroll around Gramercy Park
East 20th and East 21st Streets between Gramercy Park West and Gramercy Park East
Even though the gates of Gramercy Park are famously closed to those who don’t live on the leafy square, it’s well worth peeking in and also exploring the surrounding neighborhood. The quiet blocks are lined with elegant 19th-century townhouses and brownstones, and the charming streets feel surprisingly tranquil compared with the rest of Manhattan.
Indulge in a cocktail at L’Americana
51 Irving Pl., Gramercy, Manhattan
Helmed by award-winning bartender Takuma Watanabe, L’Americana is one of our favorite bars in Manhattan. Yes, you are getting world-renowned cocktails when you step into the lively space, but the staff and overall vibe are anything but stuffy. Try the aromatic blossom sake martini or the adventurous but balanced yuzu and mustard sour.
ABC Cocina. Photo: Tagger Yancey IV
Share a meal at ABC Cocina
38 E. 19th St., Gramercy, Manhattan
Jean-Georges Vongerichten’s Latin-inspired ABC Cocina is a neighborhood favorite for its lively bar scene and rustic but warm interior. Start with a glass (or pitcher) of its famous sangria or margaritas (including variations like ginger and basil jalapeño) and snacks like yogurt dip with trout roe or poached wild shrimp. Plates are meant for sharing so you can try a variety of dishes. We love the shaved fennel and avocado salad, seasonal vegetarian quesadilla and crispy octopus with roasted cashew romesco.
Day 3: Lower Manhattan and Brooklyn’s Waterfront Neighborhoods
Start your day in Lower Manhattan before walking across the Brooklyn Bridge to adventure through a few of Brooklyn’s most vibrant neighborhoods.
Morning
Nosh on a pastry at Frenchette Bakery
220 Church St., Tribeca, Manhattan
From the team behind Frenchette, one of the City’s most beloved restaurants, Frenchette Bakery turns out an irresistible lineup of buttery laminated pastries. Expect French standards like flaky croissants and pain au chocolat alongside more playful treats like cinnamon rolls and a breakfast cookie packed with almond butter, cherries, rolled oats, seeds and coconut.
Walk south for 12 minutes, or take the downtown 1 at Chambers Street and get off at the next stop, WTC Cortlandt.
9/11 Memorial & Museum. Photo: Shanell Bryan
Visit the 9/11 Memorial & Museum
180 Greenwich St., Lower Manhattan
The 9/11 Memorial & Museum honors the people who died in the 2001 and 1993 attacks through a powerful collection of artifacts, personal stories and multimedia exhibits. Visitors can move through the museum at their own pace or opt for a guided tour that adds a deeper perspective on the events. Outside, the quiet memorial pools—set within the footprints of the original Twin Towers—offer a moment for reflection and remembrance.
Oculus. Photo: Gabby Jones
Stroll through the Oculus
185 Greenwich St., Lower Manhattan
Designed by architect Santiago Calatrava, the Oculus isn’t just a stunning piece of architecture; it’s also a crossroads for 12 subway lines and a PATH station, plus dozens of retailers. Take some time to marvel at its interior while popping into shops like Kate Spade New York and Tissot.
Take the Queens-bound A or C from the Fulton Street station to Hoyt-Schermerhorn in Brooklyn.
Afternoon
Courtesy, French Louie
Fuel up at French Louie for lunch
320 Atlantic Ave., Boerum Hill, Brooklyn
This charming Boerum Hill bistro is a perfect place for a lunchtime respite after a morning of exploration. Take a load off while you tuck into classic French dishes like moules frites and Nicoise socca (a chickpea flatbread). The lemon olive oil cake with strawberry preserves pairs well with an espresso to fuel your afternoon.
Walk northwesterly toward the waterfront (about a mile total), or take a taxi or rideshare to the Brooklyn Heights Promenade. Enter at Remsen Street.
Brooklyn Heights Promenade. Photo: Molly Flores
Stroll the Brooklyn Heights Promenade
Between the Brooklyn-Queens Expressway and Columbia Heights, from Joralemon Street to Orange Street
Set alongside the neighborhood's grand brownstones, the tree-lined Brooklyn Heights Promenade is a must-see for its unobstructed views of the Manhattan skyline, Statue of Liberty and Brooklyn Bridge. It’s a perfect spot for a stroll or photo op or to simply soak in one of New York’s most unforgettable waterfront vistas.
Walk north on the promenade, then downhill on Columbia Heights toward Old Fulton St. Take a left to reach the dock for the East River Ferry bound for North Williamsburg.
Evening
Williamsburg. Photo: Alexander Thompson
Peruse the shops in Williamsburg
Williamsburg is one of Brooklyn’s liveliest and most upscale neighborhoods. Its streets are lined with a mix of familiar chain stores and independent boutiques, offering everything from handcrafted jewelry to curated vintage finds. Wander this area if you’re looking for a one-of-a-kind souvenir or want to experience the neighborhood’s creative vibe.
Meadowsweet. Photo: Evan Sung
Dine at farm-to-table Meadowsweet
149 Broadway, Williamsburg, Brooklyn
This lovely Williamsburg restaurant has been serving the neighborhood for more than a decade, and it’s become a mainstay for both locals and visitors. The friendly service is complemented by the fresh fare, which often includes vegetables from the owners’ upstate New York farm. Though the menu changes daily, expect creative dishes like Nantucket bay scallops with Meyer lemon and sesame, spiced duck breast with Oaxacan mole, and charred broccolini and chickpea fritters with pistachio dukkah.
Catch a comedy show at the Second City
64 N. 9th St., Williamsburg, Brooklyn
Known for its improvisational roots, the Second City features sketch comedy, improv and stand-up that often riffs on current events, pop culture and everyday life. A night here is perfect for anyone who wants to laugh, experience the energy of live performance and see up-and-coming talent honing their craft.
Day 4: More Brooklyn and Broadway
Visit one of Brooklyn’s museums before lunch in Manhattan’s Chinatown and a dazzling Broadway show.
Allan's Bakery. Photo: Vincent Tullo
Morning
Dig into a Caribbean breakfast at Allan’s Bakery in Flatbush
1109 Nostrand Ave., Flatbush, Brooklyn
This third-generation, family-owned Caribbean bakery has been putting out its excellent breads and pastries for more than 60 years. If you’re in the mood for something sweet, the currant rolls and fruit-filled turnovers are sure bets. For those craving something savory, you can’t go wrong with the codfish patties and buss-up shut, a flaky Trinidadian flatbread. While you’re in the neighborhood, take some time to get acquainted with everything else Flatbush has to offer.
Walk around 1.3 miles, or take the 2 or 5 from Sterling St to Franklin Av-Medgar Evers College.
Courtesy, Brooklyn Museum
Visit the Brooklyn Museum
200 Eastern Parkway, Prospect Heights, Brooklyn
The Brooklyn Museum is well worth a visit for its eclectic mix of art and cultural and historic objects, all housed in a striking beaux arts building. From ancient Egyptian artifacts to contemporary installations like The Dinner Party by Judy Chicago, the museum’s galleries showcase a range of works that appeal to all kinds of interests. The museum often hosts special exhibitions and programs, so check the events calendar to see what’s on.
Head a few blocks down Eastern Parkway to Grand Army Plaza
Prospect Park. Photo: Scott Rossi
Stroll through Prospect Park
Designed by landscape architects Frederick Law Olmsted and Calvert Vaux, the same duo who did Central Park, this 585-acre park is one of the jewels of Brooklyn. Spend some time strolling through and admiring elements like the Long Meadow, Nethermead and Picnic House. It’s a great for people watching, and you’ll definitely run into more locals than visitors in this expansive green space.
Take the Manhattan-bound 2 or 3 from Grand Army Plaza to Atlantic Av Barclays Ctr and transfer to the Manhattan-bound N. Get off at Canal St.
Afternoon
Joe’s Shanghai. Photo: Tagger Yancey IV
Try the soup dumplings at Joe’s Shanghai
46 Bowery, Chinatown, Manhattan
Joe's Shanghai is famous for its soup dumplings and has been a staple on New York’s Chinatown dining scene since the early 1990s. The restaurant serves classic Shanghainese dishes—dumplings, of course, but also spicy salt and pepper soft shell crab—in a lively setting that’s in a league of its own.
Soho. Photo: Brittany Petronella
Shop in Soho
This Manhattan neighborhood is a shopper’s paradise, known for its mix of high-end designer boutiques, flagship stores for major chains and independent boutiques. Wandering the cobblestone streets, you’ll find everything from luxury fashion and jewelry to unique home goods and contemporary art, making it a vibrant and exciting shopping destination. Be sure to read our guide about shopping in Soho.
Evening
Courtesy, Ocean Prime
Sit down for a pretheater dinner at Ocean Prime
123 W. 52nd St., Midtown, Manhattan
There are few grander places to have a preshow meal in Midtown than Ocean Prime. Its double-height dining room cultivates a lively atmosphere, and the menu is sizable, with excellent food, cocktails and wine. Start with chilled seafood from the raw bar or a jumbo lump crab cake with sweet and sour slaw. From there, you can try sushi, seafood specialties like lobster linguine or a prime steak served with accouterments like black garlic butter.
Broadway marquees. Photo: Lucía Vázquez
See a Broadway show
Catching a show on Broadway is one of New York City’s quintessential experiences and a must for any visitor. From dazzling, large-scale musicals like Wicked and The Lion King to critically acclaimed plays like Death of a Salesman, Broadway offers a performance for every taste across its many theaters. First-timers, return visitors and locals alike should watch the TONY-nominated Two Strangers Carry a Cake Across New York, a romantic buddy comedy that follows an eager tourist and a jaded local traversing through both the City's neighborhoods and larger-than-life attractions.
Day 5: Queens, a Day in the World’s Borough
Queens is New York City’s most diverse borough. Communities of all cultures live side by side, so you really get an authentic taste of the City by spending a day in its neighborhoods.
Morning
Grand Brasserie. Photo: Jovani Demetrie
Stop for breakfast at Grand Central Terminal
15 Vanderbilt Ave., Midtown, Manhattan
Start the day at one of Grand Central’s many excellent eateries, whether you want something quick and casual at Tartinery, Bien Cuit or Café Grumpy or prefer a sit-down meal at Grand Brasserie.
Grand Central Terminal. Photo: Brittany Petronella
Explore Grand Central Terminal
Grand Central Terminal is one of the City’s most stunning public spaces, featuring a soaring celestial ceiling and an architectural grandeur that’s uniquely New York. More than just a transit hub, it’s a historic landmark filled with shops, eateries, and tucked-away corners waiting to be discovered. Take your time exploring, and consider a self-guided audio tour to dive deeper into its fascinating history.
Take the Queens-bound 7 from Grand Central-42 St to Flushing-Main St.
Afternoon
Lunch at Hunan Cafe
137-40 Northern Blvd, Flushing, Queens
Hunan cuisine is celebrated for bold flavors, its generous use of chiles and a garlicky punch. Flushing’s Hunan Cafe stands out for its braised fish head, but if that seems too adventurous, diners can also choose from smoked duck, pork belly in garlic sauce, and spicy crab.
New World Mall. Photo: Alexander Thompson
Visit the New World Mall
136-20 Roosevelt Ave., Flushing, Queens
New World Mall is a must-see when visiting Flushing, offering multiple levels of shops and eateries. Even if you’re too full for dumplings or hand-pulled noodles, it’s fun to wander the food stalls and treat yourself to something sweet (you can’t go wrong with shaved ice or brown sugar bubble tea).
Take the Manhattan-bound 7 from Flushing-Main St to 74 St-Broadway, then transfer to the Manhattan-bound R and get off at Steinway St.
Museum of the Moving Image. Photo: Marley White
Wander the Museum of the Moving Image
36-01 35th Ave., Astoria, Queens
This museum combines interactive exhibits, behind-the-scenes artifacts and screenings to give visitors an inside look at how movies and television shows are made, from classic cinema to modern films with cutting-edge technology. The well-known Jim Henson exhibit is drawn from the museum’s permanent collection, featuring puppet friends like Kermit, Miss Piggy, Big Bird and Elmo. It’s both educational and entertaining, making it a must-visit for cinephiles and casual fans alike.
Walk around a mile south, take a car or get on the Q101 bus at Steinway St and take it to 30th Avenue.
Evening
Order a predinner drink at Sweet Afton
30-09 34th St., Astoria, Queens
This mainstay is one of the best bars in Astoria and responsible for bringing the craft cocktail movement into the neighborhood. It has a nice array of great beers, but you can’t miss its famous dirty pickle martini, made with McClure’s spicy pickle juice.
Get dinner at Nisí Estiatorio
32-07 30th Ave., Astoria, Queens
There are too many great Greek restaurants in Astoria to name, but Nisí Estiatorio is one of the best, serving traditional dishes in a lovely atmosphere. Start with fried calamari and saganaki before having traditional salads and entrées like chicken souvlaki and psarosoupa agioritiki, a fish and vegetable soup.
Day 6: The Bronx and an Evening Downtown
You’re going to cover a lot of ground on day six, visiting both the north and south Bronx, then spending an evening in Manhattan’s beautiful West Village.
Morning
Courtesy, Mae Mae Cafe & Plant Shop
Stop in for breakfast at Mae Mae Cafe
2417 Third Ave., Mott Haven, the Bronx
This plant-filled café is a perfect place to pop in for a quick coffee and pastry to start your day. If you’re hungrier, the bacon, egg and potato breakfast bowl is delicious and filling.
Walk around a mile or take a car to the intersection of Third Avenue and E. 149th Street, then get the Bx41 bus to Webster Ave/Bedford Park Blvd. You can also take a car or access the Metro North Rail from Harlem 125th St. to get to the New York Botanical Garden.
New York Botanical Garden. Photo: Tagger Yancey IV
Immerse yourself in the greenery of the New York Botanical Garden
2900 Southern Blvd., Bedford Park, the Bronx
From the Holiday Train Show to spring’s dazzling Orchid Show, there's always something splendid to see at the New York Botanical Garden. Across 250 acres, you can peruse everything from ornamental conifers to an elegant rose garden. Check out this handy guide to the garden or learn more about its accessibility.
Take a car or walk a mile to Arthur Avenue.
Afternoon
Arthur Avenue. Photo: Brittany Petronella
Treat yourself to an authentic Italian lunch on Arthur Avenue
Arthur Avenue and East 187th St., Belmont, the Bronx
Arthur Avenue and the surrounding streets are New York’s true Little Italy, and many of the restaurants’ delis and bakeries look the same as they did decades ago. Grab a sandwich at Mike’s Deli or a sit-down lunch at Pasquale’s Rigoletto.
Walk 20 minutes to the Fordham Rd subway station; take the B or D to 161 St-Yankee Stadium.
Yankee Stadium. Courtesy, New York Yankees
Tour Yankee Stadium
1 E. 161st St., South Bronx
Yankee Stadium is one of the most iconic places in American baseball. A stadium tour lets you in behind the scenes—from the dugout and locker rooms to the press box—while learning about the team’s legendary players and milestone moments. Even if you’re not catching a game, walking through the ballpark gives a sense of the energy, tradition and excitement that makes Yankees games so legendary.
Evening
Dante West Village. Photo: Steve Freihon
Settle in for a predinner drink at Dante in the West Village
551 Hudson St., West Village, Manhattan
The original Caffe Dante has been serving the Village since 1915. The team now behind the legendary establishment on MacDougal Street opened this new location in 2020. They offer a $10 martini special from 3pm to 5pm as well as its famous Garibaldi, made with Campari and fluffy orange juice.
Jack & Charlie’s No. 118. Photo: Dillon Burke
Save room for an elevated dinner at Jack & Charlie’s No. 118
118 Greenwich Ave., West Village, Manhattan
This modern American restaurant cooks most of its menu items in a wood-fired oven, turning out delectable dishes in a warm, welcoming dining room. House-made pasta and the duck meatloaf are standouts, but if you’re lucky enough to dine on a Friday or Saturday night, the slow-roasted prime rib is a must.
Maries Crisis. Photo: Phil Kline
Raise a glass at Marie’s Crisis Cafe
59 Grove St., West Village, Manhattan
This tiny piano bar has been delighting Broadway fans for decades. What makes it special is the sing-along culture: Patrons belt out show tunes on the piano, creating an intimate, high-energy experience where everyone joins in. It’s part performance, part community gathering and a quintessential New York spot for a drink and a song.
Day 7: Staten Island and Downtown Manhattan
Start with a Staten Island adventure and end at a couple of Noho’s most stylish haunts.
Morning
Stop by Conwell Coffee Hall for breakfast
6 Hanover St., Lower Manhattan
Situated in a grand old bank building, Conwell Coffee Hall is a nice place to grab a quick breakfast before a day exploring NYC. Pastries, avocado and salmon toast, and even breakfast tacos will fill you up for the adventure ahead.
Walk a half-mile downtown to the Staten Island Ferry Terminal and hop aboard for free (check out the view of the Statue of Liberty during the ride). After disembarking, take the S40 bus at Gate D and let the driver know you want to get off at Snug Harbor.
Snug Harbor Cultural Center & Botanical Garden. Photo: Gabby Jones
Roam the grounds at Snug Harbor Cultural Center & Botanical Garden
1000 Richmond Terrace, Staten Island
This gem combines history, art and nature in one beautiful setting. The grounds are filled with historic buildings, serene gardens and unique art installations, making it a lovely place to wander. Whether you’re exploring the botanical garden, checking out a gallery or just taking in the peaceful surroundings, it’s a refreshing escape from the City.
Take the S40 bus back toward St. George and get off at Richmond Terr/Schuyler St.
Afternoon
Enoteca Maria. Photo: Clayton Cotterrell
Thank the “Nonnas” for your homestyle meal at Enoteca Maria
27 Hyatt St., St. George, Staten Island
Enoteca Maria is one of Staten Island’s most charming and memorable dining experiences. The restaurant invites grandmothers from around the world to cook family recipes passed down through generations, giving diners a taste of authentic homestyle cooking. Its heartfelt story even inspired the Netflix movie Nonnas, which celebrates the restaurant’s real‑life founder and the grandmothers who make each meal special.
Take the Staten Island Ferry back to Manhattan. Walk 8 minutes to the Broad St subway station and board a Queens-bound J to Delancey St-Essex St.
Tenement Museum. Photo: Gabby Jones
Tour the Tenement Museum
103 Orchard St., Lower East Side, Manhattan
The Tenement Museum brings the New York immigrant experience to life by guiding visitors through restored apartments and telling the stories of the families who once lived there. Rather than a typical gallery, this museum uses immersive tours to spotlight specific people, places and moments, revealing how generations shaped the City. It’s one of the most personal and human ways to understand New York’s history, giving context and heart to the neighborhoods you’re exploring. For more information, check out our in-depth guide to the Tenement Museum.
Evening
Fish Cheeks. Photo: Pierce Harrison
Dine on Thai food at Fish Cheeks
55 Bond St., Noho, Manhattan
This vibrant restaurant serves some of the best Thai food in the City, alongside beer, wine and excellent cocktails. You won’t find the typical pad Thai here. Instead, you’ll feast on wings with chile and makrut lime, coconut crab curry and pork belly stir-fried with chile and crispy garlic. If you’re really hungry, spring for the chef’s selection for two, which includes two starters, three shared plates and a side.
Courtesy, Temple Bar
Get an after-dinner drink at Temple Bar
332 Lafayette St., Noho, Manhattan
Temple Bar is a downtown favorite. It originally opened in 1989 and was known for its oversize martinis and glamorous crowd. After closing in 2017, the bar was revived in 2021 with the same dark wood and fashionable downtown patrons. Yes, the martinis might be smaller, but they are over-the-top delicious, as is everything else crafted by the talented bartenders.