5 Days in New York City

By Casey Makovich
Published: May 16, 2024

Spending 5 days in New York City gives you plenty of opportunities to visit all of the essential tourist attractions and more. With 5 days, you won’t be too rushed, so you can relax and take your time enjoying the sights within the city. This 5-day NYC itinerary is just one example of how you can make the most of your trip to New York City - with The New York Pass, your sightseeing possibilities are endless and you can completely tailor your sightseeing itinerary to your interests.

This Sample 5 Days in NYC Itinerary Includes:

  • Big Bus New York Hop-on Hop-off Tour
  • The Brooklyn Bridge and DUMBO Neighborhood Tour
  • Yankee Stadium Tours
  • Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum
  • Museum of Modern Art (MoMA)
  • and more...

Save on Admission to Top NYC Attractions

With The New York Pass, you can save big on admission to more than 90 attractions in the city. Experience the best of NYC and visit as many sites as you want each day for one low price with this flexible pass. Simply put, you decide what to see and when you want to see it! Learn more about our available passes and attractions.

DAY 1

Big Bus New York Hop-on Hop-off Tour

Start your trip with an overview tour of the city to get acquainted with the top attractions and city layout. This will help you plan which sights and attractions you want to go back to and spend more time at later on during your trip. The Big Bus Hop-On Hop-Off tour lets you choose from 3 routes that explore all of Manhattan: Uptown, Midtown, and Downtown. Hop off at any of the over 25 popular stops along the way to explore an area by foot or visit attractions. As you ride along, you'll hear live commentary from your onboard tour guide, so you'll get an entertaining overview of the city's history, culture, popular spots, and more.

Greenwich Village Walking Tour

NYC - Washington Square Park By Jean-Christophe BENOIST (Own work) [CC BY 3.0], via Wikimedia Commons
Explore the artistic community of Greenwich Village and stop by the ever-exciting Washington Square Park, where you will always find some form of entertainment. This neighborhood was at the heart of the 1960s counter-culture movement and is still into one of the trendiest areas in New York City with cafes, jazz clubs, theaters, the picturesque Washington Square Park, and many NYU buildings. Getting in: Greenwich Village Walking Tour tickets are included with The New York Pass.

Madison Square Garden – All Access Tour

Madison Square Garden marquee 2007 EM NYC (2185085378) By Eddie Maloney from North Las Vegas, USA (NYC) [CC BY-SA 2.0], via Wikimedia Commons
Take a tour of the world's most famous entertainment arena, Madison Square Garden. This all-access tour knows no limits and will even take you into the locker rooms of your favorite New York sports teams. Getting in: Madison Square Garden: MSG All Access Tour tickets are included with The New York Pass.

Hudson River Sightseeing Bike Rentals

What could be more relaxing than a nice leisurely ride along the Hudson River? Head to Hudson River Sightseeing Bike Rentals and pick up a full day bike rental to explore the sights of New York City at your own place (can be a great way to get around to attractions on your New York City itinerary!). Getting in: Hudson River Sightseeing Bike Rentals are included with The New York Pass.

DAY 2

The Brooklyn Bridge and DUMBO Neighborhood Tour

Start your day with a tour of Brooklyn's DUMBO neighborhood and view one of New York's most iconic landmarks, the Brooklyn Bridge on a guided tour. You'll get to explore the vibrant and trendy Brooklyn neighborhood and get great views of the Manhattan skyline as you learn all about this historic neighborhood. Getting in: The Brooklyn Bridge and DUMBO Neighborhood Tour tickets are included with the New York Pass.

Shearwater Classic Schooner - Manhattan by Sail

Experience New York City's waterfront as you cruise on the historic Shearwater Classic Schooner ship and view the best sights that the city has to offer. This 1.5-hour cruise gives you plenty of time to relax and enjoy the sights as you sail along. Getting in: Shearwater Classic Schooner cruise tickets are included with The New York Pass.

Museum at Eldridge Street

After your cruise, head to the Museum at Eldridge Street, a historic synagogue. While exploring this museum's beautifully decorated interiors, you’ll learn all about its significance to Jewish history and culture, particularly in the Lower East Side of Manhattan. Getting in: Museum at Eldridge St. tickets are included with The New York Pass.

DAY 3

Rockefeller Center Tour

Become an expert on the legendary Rockefeller Center by taking an entertaining and enlightening guided tour of the plaza and learn the building's history and symbolic status in NYC's history. Getting in: Rockefeller Center Tour tickets are included with The New York Pass.

Shopping at Macy’s Herald Square - Receive an 11% Saving Pass

Macy's Herald Square is one of the largest department stores in the world - and a New York City landmark - offering a huge selection of name brand designers and popular styles. You can use your New York Pass to enjoy 10% savings inside of the store. Getting in: 11% savings pass at Macy's Heral Square get an exclusive with The New York Pass.

Museum of the City of New York

Museum of the City of New York 1220 Fifth Avenue from west By Beyond My Ken (Own work) [GFDL or CC BY-SA 4.0-3.0-2.5-2.0-1.0], via Wikimedia Commons
Explore the massive collection at the Museum of the City of New York and see how multimedia and advanced technology are incorporated with the exhibits hosted by the museum. There's plenty to discover as the museum boasts a collection of over 1.5 million items. Getting in: Museum of the city of New York tickets are included with The New York Pass.

Yankee Stadium Tours

Travel to the Bronx and take a tour of the historic Yankee Stadium. This 1-hour tour takes you through the stadium while an experienced tour guide tells you everything there is to know about baseball's most storied franchise, the 27-time MLB World-Series champion New York Yankees. Getting in: Yankee Stadium: Classic Stadium Tour tickets are included with The New York Pass.

DAY 4

Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum

Climb aboard the award-winning USS intrepid and roam one of New York City's most unique museums. View groundbreaking exhibits and learn more about the aircraft as well as the team that operated it before it became one of the most popular museums in New York. Getting in: Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum tickets are included with The New York Pass.

Radio City Music Hall Stage Door Tour

Visit the world-famous Radio City Music Hall and go backstage to get a better understanding of what goes on during shows in the historic performance venue. An experienced tour guide will show you every corner of Radio City and you may even meet a special guest. Getting in: Radio City Music Hall: Stage Door Tour tickets are included with The New York Pass.

Museum of Modern Art (MoMA)

View artistic masterpieces created by legends like Claude Monet and Van Gogh as you stroll the halls of the Museum of Modern Art. You’ll find plenty of exciting installations waiting inside of the museum and a beautiful garden where you can relax after enjoying the exhibits. Getting in: Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) tickets are included with The New York Pass.

DAY 5

Circle Line Sightseeing Cruises

Enjoy the waves and take in the beautiful sights of New York City on one of several Circle Line Sightseeing Cruises. With Circle Line Sightseeing Cruises, you can choose which popular cruise option you would like to take and Circle Line provides multiple cruises throughout the day so you get to choose whether you’d like to sail in the day or at night. Getting in: Circle Line Sightseeing Cruise tickets are included with The New York Pass.

Inside Broadway Tours

New York City is the home of Broadway entertainment and not only can you catch a show while you’re in town, you can also take an informative tour that lets you know everything about Broadway. You’ll even meet Broadway actors who are kind enough to share their own behind the scenes experiences. Getting in: Inside Broadway Walking Tour tickets are included with The New York Pass.

The Cloisters Museum and Gardens

The Cloisters from Garden By Jose olivares (Own work) [CC BY-SA 3.0], via Wikimedia Commons

Journey to Fort Tryon Park where you’ll see one of New York City’s true gems. The Cloisters Museum specializes in artifacts from the medieval era and boasts an impressive collection of antique art that doesn't disappoint.

Getting in: The MET: Cloisters tickets are included with The New York Pass.

Remember to Save on Admission

With 5 days in NYC, there's enough time to see all the major sites and landmarks and really get to know the city. A lot of the activities and attractions mentioned in this post are included on The New York Pass–save money on admission to dozens of the most popular attractions in NYC is included for one low price. Save anywhere up to 70% off of the city’s most sought-after attractions with the pass versus regular gate admission prices. Learn more about The New York Pass here.

Casey Makovich
New York Travel Expert

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Yankees or Knicks? Planning Your Perfect NYC Sports Venue Visit

If you're heading to New York and have sports or live entertainment on the mind, you're heading straight for a classic dilemma: do you explore the roaring history of Yankee Stadium up in the Bronx or opt for Madison Square Garden’s star-studded heart right above Penn Station? Both venues offer stadium tours with first-hand glimpses of locker rooms, press boxes, and plenty of “remember that night?” stories. We’ll unpack each experience—ambiance, action, photo ops, food, and more—so you can plan the perfect trip and soak in New York’s legendary energy, whichever side of town you end up on. The Lowdown  Yankee Stadium Tour  Location: The Bronx, 1 E 161st St, Bronx, NY 10451  Tour highlights: Dugout access, New York Yankees Museum, Monument Park, and select field views  Vibe: Reverent, nostalgic, baseball-focused  Accessibility: Modern amenities, wheelchair accessible  Best for: Baseball fans, families, and history buffs  Tickets: Timed, available most days  Madison Square Garden All Access Tour  Location: Midtown Manhattan, 4 Pennsylvania Plaza, New York, NY 10001  Tour highlights: Player locker rooms (when available), luxury suites, backstage, history exhibits  Vibe: Energetic, showbiz, multi-sport, and concert cool  Accessibility: Multiple elevators, guides available  Best for: Basketball, hockey, boxing, concert lovers, pop culture fans  Tickets: Timed, book ahead  Sounds Good, Tell Me More...  Okay, So Which One Is Most Impressive?  We’ve walked both tours and can confirm: each venue brings its own flavor of “wow.” At Yankee Stadium, Monument Park feels weighty, like you’ve stepped inside a living Hall of Fame. The museum—full of World Series memories and game-used bats—oozes nostalgia. There’s something about being in a place where history has been rewritten time and again: Babe Ruth, Derek Jeter, the unforgettable roll call from the Bleacher Creatures.  Madison Square Garden, though, lives up to its name as a showcase for stars. The sense of excitement crackles, from the glowing entrance hallways to the swooping sightlines of the arena floor. Your brain will start humming the theme song of every sporting highlight reel or concert you ever watched on TV. The exclusive areas, like the high-end suites and backstage corridors, amp up the VIP-feeling. If you spot the spot where musicians have scribbled their names on the wall, you’ll get a taste of the creative fire burning in-house.  Really, it’s spectacle in different forms: Yankee Stadium honors tradition and legends, while MSG sparkles with multi-purpose, multimedia grandeur.  Which One Is More Fun?  It genuinely depends on your flavor of fun. At Yankee Stadium, the guides tend to offer an energetic rundown of Yankees lore, playfully quizzing guests on trivia and letting kids pretend to call a home run over the PA system. Exploring the museum gets competitive—who can spot the weirdest piece of memorabilia?—and you’ll sense the buzz if there’s a game later that day.  MSG leans into that big-city, all-the-world’s-a-stage vibe. Interactive displays let you imagine calling a basketball play or performing to a sold-out arena. Tour guides tell stories of surprise celebrity concert appearances or wild championship celebrations—there’s star power at every turn. Sometimes you’ll even hear sound checks or spot techs prepping the floor, adding real behind-the-scenes flavor.  Both experiences are immersive and interactive, just different speeds: baseball’s tradition vs. the Garden’s grandeur.  Which Is More Beautiful?  Yankee Stadium’s beauty comes from its scale and classic architecture. The exterior, with its limestone façade and proud NY banners, has a strong, upright dignity. Inside, the stadium opens up to reveal the lush green field and bold blue seats; sunlit afternoon tours make everything shine, especially in Monument Park where the plaques and busts are beautifully set among blooming flowers.  Madison Square Garden is sleeker—a blend of modern and retro, from the polished, LED-lit concourses to the classic rounded bowl of the arena proper. Some parts even feel like a glammed-up spaceship. When you stand on the Chase Bridges looking out over the court or ice, the patterns of the stadium lights create a magical atmosphere. MSG might not have that “ballpark in spring” vibe, but its urban energy is undeniable and thrilling.  Which Has the Better View?  Both tours have their show-stopper moments. At Yankee Stadium, standing at the edge of the diamond or the dugout looking out onto the vast field is unforgettable. Monument Park, especially in the morning light, offers quieter photo ops framed by retired numbers and pinstriped greenery.  MSG’s standout views come from the Chase Bridges and suites perched high above the arena floor. You'll feel suspended above the action, imagining thundering crowds cheering below you. There’s also a dizzying vantage from the event-level corridors, where you can peer across empty seats and imagine a sold-out event.  If you’re after uninterrupted skyline views, though, MSG’s Midtown location wins—step outside and you’re greeted by the full-on Manhattan energy, just steps from the Empire State Building.  How Do I Get There?  Yankee Stadium sits at 161st Street and River Avenue in the Bronx. Take the 4, B, or D subway lines to 161st-Yankee Stadium. Coming from Midtown Manhattan only takes about 25 minutes when the trains are flowing, with station exits right at the ballpark gates. There’s parking nearby, but driving in the Bronx can slow you down on game days.  Madison Square Garden hovers above Penn Station, smack in Midtown. Any subway line hitting 34th Street (1, 2, 3, A, C, E), New Jersey Transit, Amtrak, or LIRR drops you at the front doors. MSG couldn’t be easier to reach, and you’re a quick stroll from Times Square, Broadway, or Herald Square shopping.  Both venues offer accessible entrances for visitors needing assistance.  Best Choice for Families, Couples or Friends  Families will feel right at home at Yankee Stadium. The tour mixes baseball facts with engaging moments for kids: they can peek into dugouts, hold field dirt, and try out their sports commentator voices. There’s lots of space to roam and plenty of room for strollers or sibling squads.  Couples might enjoy Madison Square Garden’s glammed-up adrenaline, especially if you catch a behind-the-scenes look at concert setups. The All-Access Tour is great for music or basketball-loving duos.  Friends going out in a group may want to pick MSG for its everything-in-one-place cool or Yankee Stadium if they want to mix baseball history with bites and brews in the neighborhood. Both tours are packed with selfie moments and shared trivia.  I’ve Got Fidgety Kids to Entertain – Which Has More ‘Hands On’ Activities?  Yankee Stadium tours tend to be more tactile: kids can touch the warning track surface, see artifacts up close (sometimes even holding a real World Series ring), and the open spaces offer room for wiggling about. The museum draws kids in with interactive displays, video clips, and plenty of hands-on exhibits related to baseball legends. Guides are ready with fun stories, and younger fans love trying on Yankees caps in the gift shop or practicing their play calls at the mock announcer booth.  At Madison Square Garden, the All Access Tour steps up the interactivity by letting visitors pretend they’re presenting the sports news at an interactive broadcast studio, track their voices on a jumbotron simulation, or get a feel for the high-stakes moments in a VR setting (sometimes available, always a hit with teens). Some tours even let you stand right where NBA or NHL teams warm up pre-game. MSG’s focus is broader—music, sports, and culture—so everyone usually finds something to spark their imagination.  Either tour will keep busy minds engaged, but for the tactile, physical “try it yourself” moments, Yankee Stadium leads slightly, especially for younger kids. MSG is more about big, multi-sport interactivity and music magic, a plus for older children or teens.  What’s the Accessibility Like?  Yankee Stadium is purpose-built for accessibility. Wide ramps and modern elevators make every tour stop reachable, and staff offer support at any step. Accessible restrooms, seating areas throughout, and wheelchair accommodations ensure everyone’s comfort. Signage is clear, and guides are prepared to answer any questions about mobility concerns.  Madison Square Garden has undergone recent renovations aimed at inclusivity. Multiple elevators connect levels, assistive listening devices are available, and ADA seating can be requested as needed. Guides happily adjust pacing for visitors with mobility needs, with early access to elevators and private tours available if your group requires extra assistance. Both venues encourage visitors to call ahead for specific accommodations.  Best Lunch Spots Nearby?  You’ll work up an appetite on either stadium tour, so here are our favorite stops in each neighborhood:  Near Yankee Stadium:  Hard Rock Cafe Yankee Stadium Loud, proud, and stuffed with baseball memorabilia. The burgers (try the Legendary Steak Burger) are always a solid pick, and kids love scoping the music exhibits.  Court Deli Less flashy, more neighborhood flavor. Grab a classic New York deli sandwich—pastrami on rye is a local staple—or fresh bagels in the morning rush.  Loeser’s Deli Over at 214 W 231st Street, this legendary Bronx institution (take a quick bus or rideshare) serves up hand-carved hot corned beef and old-school pickles.  Gianfranco’s Pizza For something casual, walk over to 162nd Street. The slices here are big, cheesy, and best eaten folded in one hand while retelling your favorite moments from the stadium.  Near Madison Square Garden:  Friedman’s Tucked inside Penn Station, Friedman’s blends casual with farm-to-table. The fried chicken and waffles are legendary for a reason.  Keen’s Steakhouse Around the corner at W 36th Street, Keen’s is a splurge-worthy, wood-paneled classic—mutton chops, dry-aged steaks, and ceilings lined with vintage clay pipes once smoked by luminaries like Teddy Roosevelt.  Num Pang Sandwich Shop If you want fast, inventive Cambodian-style sandwiches, this is your stop. Bold flavors, lots of vegetarian choices, and that sweet-spicy chili mayo.  Pennsy Food Hall Right above Penn Station, go with a group and pick from tacos, sushi, pizza, and cocktails in a lively space with communal tables and lots of sunlight.  Eataly Flatiron A short subway hop away, this Italian food market is bursting with fresh pasta counters, espresso bars, Nutella stations, and open seating. Pick up a picnic for Bryant Park nearby.  Where Are the Best Photo Opportunities?  Yankee Stadium delivers its best shots from Monument Park, especially with the row of retired numbers and the field’s sweep behind you. The dugout view—gazing out at the empty expanse of outfield grass—is another essential pic. Don’t miss the stadium’s classic limestone exterior, a smart spot for selfies that scream “I’m in New York!” Top tip: Arrive for an early-morning tour if you want the lush green field in its brightest natural light, or just as the gates open for golden hour.  Madison Square Garden shines brightest from the Chase Bridges walkways; snap an overhead panorama of the court or ice (empty or set for a big event). The grand lobby with player banners and rotating exhibits gives you a “red carpet” moment. Ask your guide to point out the wall of signed performer posters—this shot signals your place among legends. Top tip: Afternoon tours sometimes coincide with arena preparations; you’ll get bonus action shots of crews or maybe even a visiting team.  We’re Finished and Thirsty – Is There a Decent Bar in the Area?  Near Yankee Stadium:  Stan’s Sports Bar An institution since 1979, this wall-to-wall Yankees memorabilia den is all about cold beers and ballgame vibes. The crowd is lively, especially before and after games, and bartenders know how to pour a proper pint.  Bronx Draft House Sleek but unpretentious, this spot offers 20+ rotating taps (IPA fans will be impressed) and wild loaded fries. Try the Yankee Julep—a minty, bourbon-packed nod to the home team.  Billy’s Sports Bar Iconic for pregame drinks, expect plenty of TVs, a friendly crowd, and pitchers of domestic beer perfect for sharing.  Near Madison Square Garden:  The Lobby Bar at The New Yorker Hotel Swanky Art Deco décor, signature Manhattan cocktails, and classic nibbles like sliders and truffle fries.  Foley’s NY Pub & Restaurant Baseball heaven with over 3,500 signed baseballs, hearty pub food, and killer Guinness pours. Try the “Home Run Bloody Mary” loaded with toppings.  Haymaker Bar and Kitchen Thoughtful craft beer selection, chill crowd, and inventive cocktails (hello, MSG Mule with ginger and lime). Their happy hour is a Midtown gem.  Any Other Good Stuff Nearby?  Around Yankee Stadium:  The Bronx Museum of the Arts Just five minutes from the stadium, this free museum highlights contemporary art with a focus on local voices. Easy to pair with your tour!  Grand Concourse & Art Deco Buildings Explore the Grand Concourse’s historic architecture—try a walking tour to spot Deco masterpieces.  Poe Cottage Literary buffs can pop over to the Bronx’s own Edgar Allan Poe Cottage, offering a peaceful glimpse into New York life centuries ago.  Near Madison Square Garden:  High Line A leafy, elevated park built on an old freight line—walkable from MSG in 20 minutes, and perfect for photos, people-watching, and skyline views.  Moynihan Train Hall Surprising as it sounds, the newly renovated Penn Station extension is a destination for architecture and public art—grab coffee and marvel at the vast skylights.  Bryant Park & New York Public Library About a 10-minute walk, this urban oasis offers gardens, seasonal markets, and plenty of outdoor tables for snacks picked up at Eataly or local delis.  Koreatown Across 32nd Street, find bubble tea shops, sizzling barbecue joints, karaoke spots, and bakery-cafes like Paris Baguette—a hidden gem for late-night treats post-tour.  Summary  Yankee Stadium and Madison Square Garden both deliver legendary, uniquely New York experiences, loaded with fascinating history and memorable moments. If you’re drawn to nostalgia, baseball legends, and a leisurely, “step back in time” feel, the Yankee Stadium tour is a do-not-miss. For those who crave heart-of-the-city pace, stories of showbiz and sporting superstars, and energetic behind-the-scenes moments, the MSG tour is as New York as it gets.  Each venue offers easily accessible tours with friendly, knowledgeable guides. Both deliver plenty of hands-on excitement for families, romantic moments for couples, and post-tour hangouts for groups of friends. Whether you’re noshing on corned beef in the Bronx or sipping a Manhattan in Midtown, you're in for a treat.  The toughest part? Deciding which legendary venue to tackle first. But trust us—whichever you pick, you’ll walk away with stories, snaps, and a new appreciation for the vibrant culture that keeps the city buzzing. In New York, the best adventure is often the one you didn’t plan for—so maybe (just maybe!) there’s room for both on your itinerary.    Enjoyed this? Check out our guide to making your morning in NYC memorable, and which tourist traps to avoid.    Step up your sightseeing with The New York Pass®  We make it easy to explore the best a city has to offer. We’re talking top attractions, hidden gems and local tours, all for one low price. Plus, you'll enjoy guaranteed savings, compared to buying individual attraction tickets.  See more, do more, and experience more with The New York Pass® – just choose a pass to get started! 
Twilight view of the Empire State Building from Top of the Rock, New York.
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Top of the Rock vs SUMMIT One Comparison

Ever since King Kong first swatted planes like flies from atop the Empire State Building, the Big Apple has been obsessed with creating towers that reach ever further heavenwards. As a result, nearly a century after that iconic movie first astonished audiences, the Manhattan skyline is liberally dotted with skyscrapers of 1,000 feet or higher (though the Empire State Building remains resolutely within the top 10, fact fans). All of which means New York isn’t short of an observation platform or six, all vying for your dollar with their superspeed elevators, interactive displays and dizzying 360-degree views across the city and beyond. Our Top of the Rock vs SUMMIT One Vanderbilt comparison takes a look at two of the tallest New York attractions! Top of the Rock Name: Monikers don’t come much more literal than Top of the Rock. You’ll find this stunning observatory on floors 67-70 of The Rockefeller Center. In other words at the, um, top of the Rock. Age: Considered one of the most impressive projects of the Great Depression era, The Rockefeller Center was built and opened in the 1930s. Top of the Rock opened at the top of 30 Rockefeller Plaza way back in 1933. What is Top of the Rock? One of the oldest observation platforms in town (second only to the Empire State Building, which beat it by a mere two years), Top of the Rock boasts 360-degree views of the Big Apple and beyond from the 67th, 69th and 70th floors of 30 Rockefeller Plaza. Top of the Rock: Vital Statistics  Height: 850 feet (260 meters). Number of floors: Rockefeller Plaza has 70, the Top of the Rock experience is on floors 67, 69 and 70. Elevators: 60. Top of the Rock’s Sky Shuttle elevator takes less than a minute from bottom to top. Visitors: around 2.5 million every year. What’s the Top of the Rock Experience Like? The Rockefeller Center – aka 30 Rock – is a glorious, skyscraping work of art in its own right. Feast your eyes on this piece of iconic Art Deco eye candy before heading inside for more Instagram-feed-filling snaps of the Joie Chandelier, a sparkling confection that soars three stories through the Grand Atrium lobby and contains no less than 14,000 crystals. Suitably bedazzled, it’s time to step aboard the Sky Shuttle to speed skywards for the main event. And what an event! We’re talking 360-degree views across the entire city to Long Island, New Jersey and even – on clear days – as far as Connecticut. This is also where you can find some of the finest Empire State Building views in town, as well as spotting Central Park, the Chrysler Building, Brooklyn Bridge, the Statue of Liberty, the Yankee Stadium and more. There are indoor and outdoor spaces, with some of the very best views to be had from the 70th floor’s panoramic outdoor terrace. Drink it in at your leisure; there’s no time limit on your visit. Fascinating Top of the Rock Fact of the Day The architectural design of Top of the Rock is intended to mirror that of a grand 1930s ocean liner. Try not to get seasick! Top of the Rock Fast Facts Opening hours: 9AM-11PM daily, year round. Last entry is at 10.10PM. Tickets: general admission to Top of the Rock is included with a New York Pass, which also gives you access to over 100 more NYC attractions. Alternatively, you’ll find various ticket options at the Top of The Rock website. Closest transport links: multiple subway services call at 47th-50th Streets-Rockefeller Center station. There’s also discounted parking available at Rockefeller Center SP+ garage at 25 West 48th Street. But how does Top of the Rock compare to SUMMIT? Let’s find out... SUMMIT Name: SUMMIT One Vanderbilt. Or just plain old SUMMIT to its friends. Age: A relative newcomer to the NYC skyscraper scene, this humongous wedge of glass, steel and concrete opened to the public in September 2020, with SUMMIT following in October 2021. What is SUMMIT? Well, if the marketing blurb is to be taken at face value, it’s three levels of immersive space that will, amongst other things, ‘reset your senses’, help you ‘escape the boundaries of perception’ and see you ‘break through to a new realm’. In short: it’s a thrilling immersive experience in the sky; a futuristic take on more traditional observation platforms like Top of the Rock, the Empire State Building and the One World Observatory. SUMMIT: Vital Statistics  Height: The One Vanderbilt building is 1,401 feet (427 meters) tall and its SUMMIT observation platforms are a dizzying 1,100 feet (336 meters) above Madison Avenue. Number of floors: 93. Elevators: 42. Visitors: SUMMIT welcomed 1.4 million visitors in its first year (up to October 2022). What’s the SUMMIT Experience Like? Where to begin? The standard ticket includes several extraordinary experiences. There’s a trippy art installation in four different ‘chapters’ by Kenzo Digital, in which mirrored walls and ceilings reflect you, the sky, the clouds, the city skyline and everything else to infinity. Interact with floating silver balls and see your own face take shape in the clouds. Meanwhile, Levitation sees brave souls step out into glass boxes that hover a knee-trembling 1,100 feet above Madison Avenue. Yikes. Steady your nerves with a drink at Après, where the wraparound outdoor terrace affords views stretching for up to 80 miles, before deciding whether to opt for the ultimate add-on experience. Called ‘Ascent’, this part of the SUMMIT journey involves traveling a further 120 feet above the observation platforms inside – wait for it – a glass-bottomed elevator. Nerves of steel are essential! Fascinating SUMMIT Fact of the Day One Vanderbilt’s elegant facade is made mainly from glass and terracotta tiles. The tiles are the same as those used on the ceiling in the adjoining Grand Central Station; a respectful nod to the old from the new. SUMMIT Fast Facts Opening hours: 9AM-midnight, year round. Last entry is at 10PM. Tickets: there are several booking options available on the SUMMIT website. Closest transport links: the entrance to SUMMIT is located on the main concourse of Grand Central Terminal. Top of the Rock vs SUMMIT: Which Should You Visit? If it’s just great views you’re after, Top of the Rock does the job for significantly less dollar than you’ll have to part with for SUMMIT’s all-singing, all-dancing multisensory experience in the sky. If, however, you like a slice of immersive action and some properly scary sky-high experiences alongside your city views, SUMMIT may well be the one for you. Save on New York Activities and Attractions Save on admission to 90+ London attractions with The New York Pass. Check out @NewYorkPass on Instagram for the latest top tips and attraction info.
Stuart Bak
Stuart Bak
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A Guide to The RIDE & Tips for your Trip

The RIDE is a new way to see New York. This theatrical experience puts a twist on the age-old bus tour format thanks to the hilarious commentary of two comedic hosts, the stadium-style seating on the bus providing you with 360 degrees of amazing views, and even the chance for a spot of impromptu karaoke! And, of course, you'll have the chance to see all the biggest landmarks that New York has to offer, and with the unrivaled freedom courtesy of floor-to-ceiling windows inside the vehicle, your phone better have enough memory for the countless snaps you'll be taking! How to get The RIDE discount tickets? We’ve got you covered – The RIDE admission is available with the below money-saving options, so you can choose the attraction pass that’s right for you: 1. All-Inclusive Pass – All you can do. Includes admission to dozens of attractions. 2. Explorer Pass – Choose as you go. Includes admission of up to 10 attractions. Tips for riding The RIDE As one of the newest, hottest attractions in New York, The RIDE is incredibly popular. As such, we recommend you book it far in advance of your trip - we wouldn't want you to miss out! You'll be spending around 75 minutes on your ride sitting down. So, be sure to wear something you're comfortable sitting in for that long! Perhaps leave those high-waisted jeans at home... Make sure to pack a camera with plenty of film, or make sure you've got enough space on your phone - you'll be taking lots and lots of photos, and you won't want to miss any of the surprising sights and sounds you'll see! When is the best time to experience The RIDE? Since you're in a sealed vehicle, really you can check out The RIDE at any time of year! However, you're likely to see more activity going on outside the bus when the weather's good, so think about hopping on from the beginning of spring to the end of summer. What is there to see and do on The RIDE? Take your seat on the three-tiered, stadium-like bus seats, and buckle up for a ride you'll never forget. Listen to the guides as they weave hilarious tales of Big Apple Hijinks, look on as you see street performers strutting their stuff, and snap pics of all the biggest highlights of New York's skyline. The RIDE highlights Be on the lookout for New York's most iconic landmarks, such as Times Square, the Chrysler Building, the Empire State Building, Central Park, Carnegie Hall, and many more! Enjoy 360-degree views of the city thanks to the floor-to-ceiling windows across the whole of the bus. Split your sides thanks to the hilarious running commentary provided by your two comedic guides. See all the city's hotspots in under 2 hours. What attractions are near The RIDE? The famous Times Square is right around the corner, if your RIDE by gave you the itch to see more. You'll also find Madame Tussauds and the MOMA a stone's throw from the pick up point. Where is there to eat nearby? If you're in the mood for an authentic New York slice, Pizza 42 is right across the street. For fast food lovers, there's an Applebee's, Dave & Busters, Chick-fil-A, and Mcdonald's a short walk from the pick up point. If you're in the market for something heartier, you're in New York! Go explore and see what you find! Need to Know For the full schedule of operation for The RIDE, visit their website here. Tours will be canceled for severe weather or mechanical issues. Directions and Address Departs from 259 West 42nd Street near 8th Avenue. New York, NY 10036 United States Closest Subway Stops A, C, E, or S trains to Port Authority/42nd Street; 1, 2, 3, N, R, Q, or 7 trains to Times Square/42nd Street. Save on Tickets with a pass Remember, Go City is the best choice for maximum savings and flexibility, which can include The RIDE tickets, plus admission to your choice of other top attractions. You'll make great savings on entry to top museums, tours, and activities vs. paying at the gate. Visit multiple attractions for one low price.
Dom Bewley
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