How to spend 6 Days in New York: The Best Itinerary + Where to Stay

You want to spend 6 days in New York and you’re looking for the best things to do and activities?

You’re at the right place!

In order to help you plan your stay, I have prepared for you the perfect 6-day itinerary in New York.

I will start with my best tips to save time and avoid waiting in line in front of New York’s must-see attractions. Then, I will give you the day by day program, perfectly optimized to make the most of your stay.

In addition to the best places to visit and activities for each stage of your itinerary, I will also give you all my best tips and accommodation suggestions depending on your budget.

So, what are the best places to visit in New York in 6 days? Where to stay?

Let’s find out!

How to avoid waiting in line (and save a lot of time!) at New York’s tourist attractions

It’s a well-known fact: New York is undeniably one of the most visited cities in the world!

Regardless of when you’re planning your 6-day trip to New York, be prepared to encounter lengthy queues at major tourist attractions like the Empire State Building or the Rockefeller Center.

But don’t worry, I’ve got you covered!

In this guide, I will provide all the necessary tips to skip the line and optimize your New York visit.

So, here are the 2 best solutions to save time (and money!) during your stay in New York.

1. The New York Go City Explorer Pass

For your 6-day trip in New York, you should purchase the “New York Go City Explorer Pass”.

It’s what I did during my trip, and it was very convenient!

This 100% digital pass offers priority entry to New York’s must-see attractions. This means there’s no need to pick up anything from a ticket office. When you visit a monument or a museum, you just show your pass on your smartphone (or printed if you prefer), and you’re good to get in!

After your purchase, you will receive your pass by email, as well as a digital guide with useful informations about the attractions: opening hours, how to get there and if you need to book a time slot or not.

With this pass, you will have access to 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 or 10 attractions*, from a choice of 90 activities and visits. 

*If you have already visited other cities with a City Pass, the New York Explorer pass is a bit different. It works according to the number of activities, and not in terms of duration (no 24h/48h/72h limit, like most other City Pass).

For 6 days in New York, you should book the New York Explorer Pass for 10 attractions, as you will do a lot of visits.

This is truly the most convenient way to save time and money during your 6-day stay in New York!

The New York Explorer pass includes:

• Empire State Building
• The Statue of Liberty/Ellis Island Ferry
• Top of the Rock
• 9/11 Museum and Memorial
• MoMA
• American Museum of Natural History
• One World Observatory
• Madame Tussauds
• Circle Line Sightseeing
• St Patrick’s Cathedral Tour
• And many many more…

To purchase your New York Explorer Pass, simply click on the green button below:

There is another pass available to visit New York: the New York City Pass. But I don’t recommend it for 6 days, as it only includes 5 attractions.

2. Skip the line tickets for New York’s best tourist attractions

For your 6-day visit to New York, you can also purchase skip-the-line tickets one by one for each attractions.

This will allow you to tailor your itinerary to your interests and preferences.

For New York, you can book all your tickets, guided tours and activities online, saving you time, avoiding queues, and it’s often cheaper than buying on site!

Here is the list of the best skip-the-line tickets, simply click on the orange links below to check prices and book directly.

For your convenience, you will also find these links throughout this article.

6 days in New York: Must-See Attractions:

•  Central Park Zoo
• A private tour in Central Park in a horse-drawn carriage
• A pedicab tour in Central Park – choose between the 1 or 2 hours tour version
• American Museum of Natural History
• Guggenheim Museum
• Metropolitan Museum of Art
• St. Patrick’s Cathedral
• Top of the Rock
• National 9/11 Memorial & Museum
• One World Observatory
• Wall street guided tour
• Helicopter tour over New York
• Statue of Liberty
• Cruise around the Statue of Liberty
• Walking guided tour in Brooklyn
• Empire State Building
• Broadway show
• Intrepid Sea, Air and Space Museum
• Circle Line Sightseeing Cruises
• Madame Tussauds New York
• Edge Observation Deck
• MoMA
• SUMMIT One Vanderbilt
• Harlem guided tour
• Greenwich Village guided tour
• Luna Park in Coney Island

One Last Tip for a Perfect 6-Day Stay in New York

If you already know your travel dates (or as soon as you will have them!), you should really book your accommodation.

As New York is one of the most touristic cities in the world, the hotels offering the best value for money are often fully booked months in advance.

As a seasoned traveler, I can assure you that it’s always by planning as far in advance as possible that I’ve found the best hotels or apartments deals.

You agree that it would be a shame to somewhat ruin your stay in New York by ending up in a not-so-great hotel that costed you a fortune, right? 😅

So your best bet is to take 5 minutes now to have a look at traveler’s favorite hotels in New York.

And if you like one of the hotels you find, book it!

It’s fast, it’s easy and most accommodation offer free cancellation. That’s the best way to protect yourself from the inconvenience of finding nothing but mediocre rooms at exorbitant prices.

To check the best hotels deals in New York, simply click on the green button below:

After securing your dream stay, it’s time to continue reading this guide!

The best itinerary for your 6-Day trip to New York

Let’s now start your 6-day itinerary in New York!

For each day, I will give you all the details you need to plan for your visits + a map that will allow you to visualize the itinerary a bit better.

I’m assuming you will be staying in New York for 6 full days, and that you will be using the New York Explorer Pass or Skip-the-Line Tickets.

It’s the best way to save time and money during your 6-day stay!

If you still have questions after reading this guide (or need help organizing your holiday), don’t hesitate to ask me in the comments section located at the very end of this article.

I will be glad to help you plan your trip.

So, what are the best places to visit in New York in 6 days?

Day 1 – The Heart of Manhattan

Day 1 visits:

A. Central Park
B. Museums
C. Fifth Avenue
D. St Patrick’s Cathedral
E. Top of the Rock
F. Times Square

A. Central Park

You should start your 6-day itinerary in New York with a visit to the city’s most famous public park: Central Park.

Featured in countless movies and stories, this expansive oasis amidst the urban jungle offers a quiet escape from the bustling NYC. You will for sure love to wander around, discover its charming attractions!

Here’s what you shouldn’t miss:

• The Bethesda Terrace and Fountain offer picturesque views and a perfect backdrop for photos.
• The Central Park Zoo, perfect if you’re visiting New York with kids
• Rowing a boat on the Central Park Lake, especially romantic during the spring and summer months
• The Strawberry Fields memorial dedicated to John Lennon
• The Belvedere Castle, offering panoramic views of the park and the city from its lookout towers.

To reach Central Park, you can take the metro to 72 Street Station, 81 Street Station or 86 Street Station.

B. Visit One or Two Must-See Museums Next to Central Park

After enjoying the natural beauty of Central Park, immerse yourself in the rich culture of New York by visiting one or two of the world-class museums located just a few steps away.

You can choose between:

• The American Museum of Natural History

Dive into the past and explore the mysteries of the natural world.

Home to a vast array of exhibits, from dinosaur fossils to the depths of the ocean, this museum offers a fascinating journey for all ages. It’s a very good idea of visit to do during your 6-day New York itinerary if you have kids.

Don’t miss the Rose Center for Earth and Space to learn more about the universe!

• The Metropolitan Museum of Art

Art enthusiasts should head to The Metropolitan Museum of Art, one of the largest and most prestigious art museums in the world.

With over two million works spanning 5,000 years of culture, from ancient Egypt to modern American design, it’s a must-visit for anyone looking to soak in human creativity and history.

• Guggenheim Museum

For a taste of modern and contemporary art, you should go to the Guggenheim Museum.

Its unique spiral design by Frank Lloyd Wright is a masterpiece in itself, housing a renowned collection that includes works by Picasso, Kandinsky, and Van Gogh.

Always check museum opening hours in advance and look out for special exhibitions that might require separate tickets.

C. Fifth Avenue

You can’t spend 6 days in New York without taking a stroll down Fifth Avenue, one of the most famous shopping streets in the world.

Whether you’re looking to indulge in luxury shopping or just want to window shop, Fifth Avenue is the perfect location!

Here’s what you need to know:

• You will find High-end boutiques and famous stores lining the avenue, such as Tiffany & Co., Apple, and Saks Fifth Avenue.
• Bryant Park is just a short walk away, and it’s the perfect place to relax a bit
• Window displays, especially during the holiday season, are really magnificent!

While exploring Fifth Avenue, don’t forget to look up and admire the impressive architecture that defines New York’s skyline.

D. St. Patrick’s Cathedral

On Fifth Avenue, you’ll also find the majestic St. Patrick’s Cathedral.

This Gothic Revival masterpiece, a true architectural marvel, is really worth a look!

And to learn more about the cathedral, you can attend one of the free guided tours.

The New York Explorer Pass includes the entrance to the cathedral but if you don’t want to buy it, you can still purchase your online ticket by clicking on the button below:

E. Top of the Rock

During your 6-day trip to New York, you will for sure want to see the city from above!

The Top of the Rock observation deck offers breathtaking 360-degree views of the city skyline, it’s really must-see, especially if it’s your first time in New York.

Here’s what you need to know:

• Located at the summit of Rockefeller Center, Top of the Rock offers unparalleled views of iconic landmarks such as the Empire State Building, Central Park, and the Hudson River.
• For the best experience, you should visit around sunset time, to witness the city lighting up all around you!
• You need to purchase tickets in advance online to avoid the (extremely) long waiting lines at the entrance, as the number of simultaneous visitors is limited!

Entrance to Top of the Rock is included with the New York Go City Explorer Pass.

From the top of the Rockefeller Center, you’ll understand why New York is called “The City That Never Sleeps”. 😄

F. Times Square

Your first day in New York wouldn’t be perfect without visiting the iconic Times Square!

Known for its neon lights, Broadway marquees, and bustling crowd at any time of the day, Times Square is the heart of New York City’s entertainment district.

Times Square is especially impressive at night when it’s fully lit by the bright lights of the billboards and screens.

To end your day, you can explore the shops and restaurants in the area. However, you should keep in mind that prices are higher here than in the rest of the city, as it’s really the most touristic place in NYC!

Day 2 – Exploring Brooklyn and Downtown Manhattan

Day 2 visits:

A. Brooklyn district and DUMBO
B. Brooklyn Bridge
C. Statue of Liberty
D. Financial district
E. 9/11 Memorial and museum
F. One World Observatory
G. Little Italy and Chinatown

A. Brooklyn District and DUMBO

You will start the second day of your 6-day itinerary in New York by going to one of the city’s most dynamic boroughs: Brooklyn.

To reach it, take the subway to York Street station.

You should start your exploration in DUMBO (Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass), a neighborhood renowned for its stunning waterfront views, cobblestone streets, and thriving arts scene.

Begin with a walk through Brooklyn Bridge Park, where you can enjoy breathtaking views over the Manhattan island and the Brooklyn Bridge.

Then, head to Washington Street, to snap your version of the famous Manhattan Bridge photo, where the bridge frames the Empire State Building in the distance.

In DUMBO, you will also find numerous art galleries and shops, where local artists and designers showcase their work.

And if you’re feeling hungry, no problem!

Whether you’re craving artisanal pizza, handmade chocolates, or a scoop of gourmet ice cream, you can find everything in DUMBO. Juliana’s Pizza and Brooklyn Ice Cream Factory are must-visits for any foodie.

B. Brooklyn Bridge

Connecting Manhattan and Brooklyn, the Brooklyn Bridge is an iconic symbol of New York.

You will love walking across this historic bridge offering unmatched views of the city’s skyline and the East River.

Along the bridge, you will be able to take beautiful photos featuring Manhattan’s skyscrappers in the background.

Don’t forget to stay in the pedestrian lane. The walkway is shared with cyclists, so be careful while taking pictures!

C. Ferry to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island

While in New York, you will for sure want to go see the Statue of Liberty, a universal symbol of freedom and democracy.

Located on Liberty Island, this iconic monument is accessible by ferry from Battery Park, offering stunning views of New York Harbor.

With your ferry ticket, you will also get a free audio tour. It will allow you to learn more about the history of the Statue of Liberty, making your visit more interesting!

You have the choice to set foot on the islands or enjoy a one-hour cruise around them.

The New York Explorer Pass includes round trip ferry ticket for the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island.

If you haven’t bought the pass and you want to disembark on the island, you need to book your tickets here:

If you prefer to take the one-hour cruise, click here:

D. Financial District

Once back on solid ground, head to the Financial District, the heartbeat of America’s economic power.

This district is not only home to Wall Street, but also to other iconic New York locations:

• Wall Street: Take a photo with the famous Charging Bull statue, symbolizing aggressive financial optimism and prosperity.
• The New York Stock Exchange: While entrance to the building is restricted, the exterior facade itself is impressive and a symbol of American capitalism.
• The 9/11 Memorial & Museum (which you will visit immediately after).

E. 9/11 Memorial and Museum

The 9/11 Memorial and Museum stands as a solemn tribute to the lives lost and those affected by the tragic events of September 11, 2001.

Located at the World Trade Center site, the memorial features two reflecting pools set within the footprints of the original Twin Towers.

For more information, you can download the free app or rent an audio guide. Both allow you to learn more about the exhibits and hear the personal stories of victims and survivors.

Entrance to the National 9/11 memorial and museum is free with the New York Go City Explorer Pass.

A 90-minute guided walking tour around Ground Zero and the 9/11 Memorial is also available. You can book it here!

Otherwise, you need to purchase a priority ticket here:

F. One World Observatory

It’s now time to discover another impressive vantage point, the One World Observatory, located atop the One World Trade Center.

It’s the tallest building of America!

First, you will experience the SkyPod Elevators, taking you to the 102nd floor in just 47 seconds. During this time, you will enjoy a time-lapse video of New York’s transformation over the centuries.

Once at the top, you can enjoy a superb 360-degree view of New York City.

Each of the 3 levels of the observatory offers unique perspectives and interactive experiences, including the See Forever Theater and the Sky Portal, where you stand above real-time video of the streets below.

Entrance to One World Observatory is free with the New York Go City Explorer Pass.

If you don’t have the city pass, you really need to book your tickets in advance, especially if you want to go there around sunset (the best time to visit, but also the busiest!).

Simply click on the green button to book your tickets if you don’t have a pass:

G. Dinner in Little Italy or Chinatown

After a day of exploring New York’s landmarks, it’s time to discover the culinary delights of Little Italy or Chinatown, two of the city’s most flavorful neighborhoods.

Whether you’re in the mood for authentic Italian pasta or Chinese dim sum, you will for sure find something that suits your taste!

Walking into Little Italy is like stepping into a charming Italian small town, with its cozy restaurants, gelato stands, and Italian flags fluttering in the breeze.

Here’s what you should do:

• Try classic Italian dishes like spaghetti carbonara or osso buco at one of the neighborhood’s traditional restaurants.
• Don’t skip dessert. Visit a gelateria for a scoop of authentic Italian gelato or enjoy a cannoli filled with sweet, creamy ricotta.
• Explore the specialty shops. After your meal, browse the local stores for Italian imports like fine olive oil, aged balsamic vinegar, and artisanal pasta.

Alternatively, you can go to Chinatown and discover its bustling streets, exotic aromas, and colorful markets.

Here’s how to enjoy your visit:

• Sample diverse Chinese cuisine, from Cantonese dim sum to fiery Sichuan dishes. Joe’s Shanghai is famous for its Xiao Long Bao (soup dumplings), one of my favorite Chinese dishes.
• Enjoy bubble tea from one of the many street vendors or cafes. This Taiwanese drink, made with tea, milk, and tapioca pearls, is both refreshing and fun to drink.
• Visit a traditional bakery for mooncakes, egg tarts, or sesame balls.

Third day: Best things to do in New York?

Day 3 visits:

A. Intrepid Sea, Air and Space Museum
B. Circle line Sightseeing cruise
C. Madame Tussauds
D. New York Public Library / Grand Central Terminal / Chrysler Building / United Nation Headquarters
E. Empire State Building
F. See a musical on Broadway

A. Intrepid Sea, Air, and Space Museum

Start your day at the Intrepid Sea, Air and Space Museum, a legendary museum located on the aircraft carrier Intrepid, a National Historic Landmark.

To get there, take the metro to 50 Street Station and then walk for about 15 minutes.

This museum is the perfect place to learn more about American military and maritime history, with a collection that includes the legendary aircraft carrier itself, the space shuttle Enterprise, the world’s fastest jets, and a submarine.

I really loved the visit!

The New York Explorer Pass includes free access to Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum.

Without the pass, you should book your ticket in advance by clicking here:

B. Circle Line Sightseeing Cruises

To relax a bit after the museum, you should hop on one of the Circle Line Sightseeing Cruises.

From the sea, you will get a unique vantage point of New York City, from which you can enjoy its skyscrapers, iconic landmarks, and bridges.

Circle Line offers various cruises, including a Best of NYC Cruise, which goes around Manhattan Island, and shorter options focusing on specific landmarks.

During the cruise, you will learn more about the city’s history and architecture, while discovering New York from a different angle.

C. Madame Tussauds New York

For a fun and interactive experience during your 6-day trip to New York, head to Madame Tussauds New York, located in the heart of Times Square.

This famous wax museum is home to life-like figures of celebrities, historical icons, and sports figures as well as the Marvel Super Heroes 4D experience.

Entrance to Madame Tussauds museum is included with the New York Go City Explorer Pass.

If you don’t have the Explorer Pass, book your tickets online here:

D. Discover New York Public Library / Grand Central Terminal / Chrysler Building / United Nations Headquarters

You should now dedicate some time to explore some of New York City’s most famous buildings.

Each offers a unique glimpse into the city’s history and culture:

• New York Public Library: an architectural wonder, the library is worth a visit not just for its vast collection of books, but also for its stunning Beaux-Arts design. Don’t miss the Rose Main Reading Room, with its majestic ceilings and grand windows.
• Grand Central Terminal, probably the most famous train station in the world, that you have seen in countless movies! Look up to see the “celestial ceiling” in the Main Concourse.
• Chrysler Building: an emblem of Art Deco architecture, the building is known for its stunning spire and terraced crown. While the interior is not open to the public, its exterior alone makes it a must-see for architecture enthusiasts. It’s my favorite building in NYC 😄.
  
• United Nations Headquarters: a symbol of global diplomacy, the United Nations Headquarters offers guided tours that provide insights into the UN’s role in world. It’s a unique opportunity to learn about international relations and view gifts donated by member countries.

E. Empire State Building

Another place to visit in New york, another icon for the city!

The Empire State Building offers breathtaking views from its observation decks on the 86th and 102nd floors. 

Just like for the other viewing platforms, sunset visits are very popular for the stunning panoramic views of the city bathed in golden light.

Before reaching the observation deck, you’ll pass through a series of exhibits showcasing the building’s history and construction.

To visit the Empire State Building and avoid the huge waiting line, purchase your tickets online here:

But don’t forget that it’s already included with the New York Explorer Pass.

F. See a Musical on Broadway

Going to a Broadway show is an activity you don’t want to miss during your 6-day trip to New York.

The world’s most famous theater district offers a wide range of shows, from timeless classics to modern hits.

Popular shows like The Lion King sell out quickly, so it’s wise to purchase your tickets ahead of time. You can see all Broadway shows tickets and book them by clicking here!

While there’s no strict dress code for Broadway shows, smart casual attire is recommended to match the theater’s elegant setting.

Day 4: Visiting New York

Day 4 visits:

A. Greenwich Village
B. Chelsea Market
C. High Line
D. The Vessel
E. The Edge
F. Rooftop bars

A. Greenwich Village

On the fourth day of your 6-day tour in New York, let’s explore one of the city’s historic neighborhoods: Greenwich Village. 

Known for its bohemian past, the area boasts winding, tree-lined streets, beautiful brownstone buildings, and a lively arts scene.

Here’s how to enjoy Greenwich Village:

• Stroll through Washington Square Park, famous for its iconic arch and bustling atmosphere, filled with musicians, artists, and street performers.
• Explore the local shops: In Greenwich Village, you will find numerous independent bookstores, record shops, and small local boutiques.
• Visit historic sites: Don’t miss landmarks like the Stonewall Inn, the birthplace of the modern LGBTQ+ rights movement, and the Jefferson Market Library, a stunning example of Gothic Revival architecture.

And if you want to make the most of your visit to Greenwich Village, you should book this 2-hour guided tour.

B. Chelsea Market

Just a short walk from Greenwich Village, Chelsea Market is a food lover’s paradise.

Housed in a historic factory building, you will find plenty of food vendors, artisanal shops, and restaurants.

From gourmet cheeses and artisan bread to international cuisines, you will for sure find something to try at Chelsea Market!

In addition to food, you’ll also find a number of shops selling handmade jewellery, handicrafts and homewares.

Perfect for finding a one-of-a-kind souvenir of your trip to NYC!

C. The High Line

The High Line is a perfect example of innovative urban renewal: they have turned a disused railway line into an elevated public parc!

Stretching from Gansevoort Street to the Hudson Yards, it’s a great place to enjoy a bit of greenery, art, and architecture amidst the New York City’s tall buildings.

On the High Line, you can also find sculptures and murals by contemporary artists.

D. The Vessel – Hudson Yards

From The High Line, walk for a few minutes to reach The Vessel at Hudson Yards, one of New York’s newest tourist attraction.

This honeycomb-like structure of interconnected staircases is worth to see, but you can only admire it from the outside now.

You used to be able to climb to the very top of the stairs to enjoy the view, but the building had to close for an indefinite period after several people sadly committed suicide by jumping from the top.

E. Edge Observation Deck

Perched high above Hudson Yards, the Edge Observation Deck is New York’s newest and most thrilling viewpoint.

As the highest outdoor sky deck in America, Edge offers an amazing 360-degree views of the city skyline. 

And if you’re looking for an adrenaline rush, you can go to the glass floor area, which allows you to look straight down to the streets below!

Access to The Edge is included with the New York Go City Explorer Pass.

Without the pass, you need to book your tickets online by clicking here.

As always, try to go there for sunset in order to enjoy New York under a golden hue, and then see the city slowly illuminating as the night falls.

F. Rooftop Bar

For a perfect evening, you should then head to one of New York City’s famed rooftop bars.

They are the perfect place to enjoy amazing cocktails with great night views of the city!

Whether you’re looking for a view over the Empire State Building or a cozy atmosphere with lush greenery, you will find a rooftop bar that suits your taste in NYC.

I’ve got a few personal favorites like the 230 FIFTH Rooftop Bar NYC, The Rooftop at The Standard, High Line and The Press Lounge.

Some rooftop bars have dress codes or require reservations, especially on weekends. You should thus check their website or call ahead to ensure a great evening!

Day 5: More places to visit in New York

Day 5 visits:

A. MoMA
B. Summit One Vanderbilt
C. Shopping in New York
D. Speakeasy or Michelin-starred restaurants

A. MoMA

The Museum of Modern Art, commonly known as MoMA, houses some of the world’s most famous works by artists like Van Gogh, Warhol, and Picasso.

As MoMA’s collection is huge, you should check the museum map and select the exhibits you don’t want to miss. You can also download the MoMA app for guided tours and additional information about the artworks.

Entry to the MoMA is included in the New York Explorer Pass.

Alternatively, you need to buy your tickets here:

B. SUMMIT One Vanderbilt

Continue the fifth day of your 6-day stay in New York by going to SUMMIT One Vanderbilt.

This observation deck offers a unique experience, with immersive art installations that play with reflections, light, and sound.

All this, of course, with stunning panoramic views of the city!

If you dare, you can also step into one of the transparent glass boxes that extend out from the building to see the streets, 368 meters below!

Unlike the other buildings, entry to Summit One Vanderbilt is NOT included in the New York Explorer Pass.

So there’s only one way to visit it is to book your tickets online in advance:

C. Shopping in New York

With 6 days in NYC, you will have plenty of time to do a bit of shopping!

New York City is a shopper’s paradise, offering everything from high-end boutiques and world-famous department stores to unique indie shops and trendy outlets.

Here are my favorite places to go shopping in New York:

• 5th Avenue: Known as one of the most prestigious shopping streets in the world, 5th Avenue is home to famous brands like Nike, Apple, Guess, Sephora and luxury stores such as Tiffany & Co., Bergdorf Goodman, and Louis Vuitton.
• Madison Avenue: For a more exclusive shopping experience, head to Madison Avenue, where you’ll find designer boutiques and luxury labels such as Ralph Lauren, Tom Ford, and Chanel.
• Macy’s: Don’t miss Macy’s Herald Square, the largest department store in the United States. Spanning an entire city block, Macy’s offers an extensive range of products from fashion to home goods.
• Soho: If you’re seeking trendy boutiques, art galleries, and upscale streetwear, Soho district is the perfect place.
  

D. Speakeasy or Michelin-starred restaurant

After all this shopping, it will be time to treat yourself to an unforgettable evening in New York City.

For a unique night out, explore one of New York’s speakeasies, offering an intimate atmosphere and excellent cocktails.

Places like Please Don’t Tell (PDT) and The Back Room require you to know the secret entrance or password, adding an element of adventure to your evening.

For speakeasies, arrive early to secure a spot, as these venues often have limited seating and fill up quickly.

In New York, you will also find more than 70 Michelin-starred restaurants, catering to every taste and cuisine.

From the innovative dishes at Eleven Madison Park to the delicious sushis at Masa, dining at one of these establishments is a culinary experience you will remember forever!

And don’t forget to book as early as possible, as the best Michelin-starred restaurants of New York cities are fully booked weeks in advance.

Day 6: Exploring Staten Island

For your last day in New York, you will visit Staten island!

Start your day with a ride on the Staten Island Ferry, a free service that provides stunning views of the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, and Manhattan skyline.

Once you arrive, head to Snug Harbor Cultural Center & Botanical Garden, a cultural hub set within a stunning 83-acre park.

Explore the Chinese Scholar’s Garden, the Connie Gretz Secret Garden, and the Newhouse Center for Contemporary Art among other attractions.

And if you want to enjoy a bit of nature during this last day, you should head to The Greenbelt, a great spot for a bit of hiking in the forest near NYC!

Then, step back in time at Historic Richmond Town, a village-museum that offers a glimpse into American life from the colonial period through the 19th century.

There, you can attend a guided tour and watch the various demonstrations that bring history to life.

Where to stay in New York?

To discover all the best places to visit in New York I talk about this article, you will need a place to stay!

There are hundreds of hotels in New York, and choosing the perfect one for your stay can be a bit complicated.

In order to help you out, I have thus selected for you the best hotels in New York depending on your budget.

As always, to get the best prices, you should book your hotel as early as possible!

Here is my selection of the best hotels to stay when visiting New York in 6 days (around Times Square / Empire State Building / Central Park).

• HI New York City Hostel: Youth hostel located right next to Central Park. Dormitory beds from €50 per night. An excellent choice for cheap accommodation in New York City Center!
• Club Wyndham Midtown 45: Located next to Grand Central Station. Bright and spacious double room from €200 per night. Strong Points: the rooftop and the location.
• Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott New York Manhattan/Times Square South: Located 1 km from Times Square. Cosy, comfortable double rooms from €330 per night, including breakfast. Strong points: friendly staff, view, peace and quiet.
• Hyatt Place New York City/Times Square: Located next to Madame Tussauds. Double room with impeccable cleanliness and comfortable bedding from €350, breakfast included. Strong points: central location for visiting New York on foot, very generous breakfast, very friendly staff.
• The Iroquois New York: Located less than 500 metres from Times Square, this 5-star hotel offers superb rooms with very chic decor, from €410 including breakfast. Strong points: ideal, quiet location, attentive staff.
• Riu Plaza Manhattan Times Square: Located next to the Rockfeller Center. Very comfortable, noise-isolated room from €450, breakfast €23. Strong points: very professional staff, varied breakfast, very easy to visit the centre of New York on foot.
• Hard Rock Hotel New York: Located next to the Rockfeller Center, this luxury hotel offers elegant, contemporary rooms from €500, breakfast €47. Strong points: the rooftop, the comfort, the classy design. This is my recommendation for a luxury stay in New York!

If you don’t mind being a bit further from the centre (don’t worry, it’s still very easily accessible by public transport), here is my list of the best hotels in Wall Street.

It’s a bit quieter than the hotels in Times Square and also slightly less expensive for equivalent quality.

• Hilton Garden Inn NYC Financial Center/Manhattan Downtown: Located 160 metres from Battery Park. Comfortable, modern rooms from €225, breakfast €23. Strong points: the location close to the metro, very comfortable, practical for going to the Statue of Liberty and Staten Island.
• The Washington by LuxUrban: Located 200 metres from the 9/11 Memorial and museum. Stylish rooms from €240, breakfast included. Strong points: metro stations right next to the hotel – perfect for sightseeing, view of the One World Trade Center, quality of bedding, peace and quiet.
• Club Quarters Hotel World Trade Center: Located next to Ground Zero. Spacious and cosy double room from €330. Strong points: location next to several metro stations, views from the rooftop and some rooms, free unlimited water and coffee/tea, in-room fridge.

6 days in New York with your family

If you’re planning to visit New York in 6 days with your family, you will be pleased to know that there are numerous kid-friendly attractions.

Here are visits and activities your kids are guaranteed to love:

• Central Park Zoo: from snow leopards to grizzly bears, this zoo, even if small, will for sure keep the little ones entertained!
• American Museum of Natural History: dinosaur fossils, a giant blue whale model, a planetarium – your kids won’t know where to look first.
• The iconic toy store, FAO Schwarz, is an absolute must-visit. With its giant floor piano and aisles overflowing with toys, it’s sure to bring out the inner child in everyone. 
• Pass by the M&M and Disney’s stores in Times Square and the Lego’s store on Fifth Avenue
• Take a Ferry to the Statue of Liberty
• Broadway Show: many shows like ‘The Lion King’, ‘Frozen’, and ‘Aladdin’ are perfect for kids.

The New York Explorer Pass is available for children (The price depends on their age).

Additional activities for your 6 days in New York

This suggested itinerary allows you to see the best attractions New York and its surroundings has to offer in 6 days.

And as it’s perfectly optimized, you won’t waste time going back and forth in the city.

However, if you wish to modify or add more activities, you should check out my detailed article on the 57 best places to visit in New York. It will undoubtedly help you tailor your itinerary to your preferences!

You can read it here: The 57 best things to do in New York.

Map of your 6-day itinerary in New York

To help you visualize your daily itineraries during your 6 days in New York, I have created this map with all the places to visit day by day. You can view the map’s legend by clicking on the top left button, the one with a little arrow.

You can thus see the suggested itineraries for each day.

Flight prices to New York

As always, you should book your plane tickets as early as possible to get the best prices.

To check the rates and schedules for flights to New York, you can use our flight comparator, in partnership with Skyscanner:

You need help to plan your 6-day trip to New York? Don’t hesitate to ask me in the comment section located below!

You’re traveling in the US? These articles will help you!

Discover all my articles about USA: All my articles to help you plan your trip to USA are listed there.

• Itinerary: 10 days USA West coast – How to visit Western USA in 9, 10 or 11 days
• Itinerary: 2 weeks USA West coast – The perfect 14-15 days road trip!
• Itinerary: 3 weeks USA West coast – An epic 20-21 days road trip!

• Las Vegas: Top 30 Best things to do and must-see attractions
• Los Angeles: The 45 best places to visit
• New York: The 57 best things to do
• San Francisco: The 27 epic must-see attractions

• 2 Days in Los Angeles – How to visit L.A in 48h
• 3 Days in Los Angeles – The perfect itinerary to discover the city
• 4 Days in Los Angeles – Epic itinerary with all the best things to do
• 5 Days in Los Angeles – Itinerary + All the best places to visit + Tips
• One Week in Los Angeles – The perfect 7-day itinerary

• 2 Days in New York – The best itinerary to visit the Big Apple in 48h
• 3 Days in New York – All the best places to visit + Detailed itinerary
• 4 Days in New York – The perfect itinerary for your visit
• 5 Days in New York – Itinerary + Best things to do + My Tips
• One Week in New York – The perfect 7-day itinerary

• 4 Days in San francisco – An epic itinerary for your visit

• Where to stay in New York ? My guide of the best hotels for an EPIC stay!

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