Explore New York in 3 days: perfect for solo travelers

3 days

12 stops

3 days

12 Attractions

Top of the Rock Observation Deck, American Museum of Natural History, Museum of Modern Art (MoMA), Bar Lounge & Rooftop Tour NYC, Food On Foot Tours, Edge, ARTECHOUSE New York, Mercer Labs – Museum of Art and Technology, Broadway and Times Square Tour, 9/11 Memorial & Museum, Landmark Cruise by Circle Line, Empire State Building Observatory

Experience New York’s vibrant culture and stunning views in three days designed for solo adventurers. This itinerary combines art, food, history, and unmatched cityscape moments for your ultimate downtown discovery.

1
Start at Top of the Rock Observatory
Begin your NYC solo journey at Rockefeller Center’s Top of the Rock Observatory. Enjoy a thrilling 360-degree view stretching over Central Park and the Empire State Building. This spot offers unbeatable photo ops and a sweeping introduction to the city’s skyline. Nearby, explore Fifth Avenue’s shops or relax in famed Rockefeller Plaza to set the perfect pace for your day.
Booking required
Top of the Rock Observation Deck
Up to 2 hours
$65.25Included with the The New York Pass®
When it comes to New York City skyline views, Top of the Rock is consistently one of the standout experiences. Located at Rockefeller Center, this observation deck delivers panoramic city scenes with some of the most famous landmarks framed perfectly in front of you.Your visit begins with a ride in a glass Sky Shuttle elevator, which carries you up 70 floors in under a minute to the Top of the Rock Observatory. The observation area spans 55,000 square feet and is spread across three separate viewing levels, combining both indoor and outdoor spaces. From here, you’ll enjoy unobstructed 360-degree views across Manhattan – from Central Park and the Hudson River to distant views of Connecticut on a clear day.One major highlight? You can look straight out at the Empire State Building, something you can’t do from the Empire State itself.Before heading to the top, take time to explore the exhibits and short films that explain the story of Rockefeller Center’s 10-year construction, completed during the Great Depression of the 1930s. Your ticket also includes access to a multimedia exhibition focused on the building’s history and the vision of John D. Rockefeller, bringing added context to what you’re about to see from above.Once at the summit, keep an eye out for some of New York’s most recognisable sights, including the Chrysler Building, One World Trade Center, the George Washington and Brooklyn Bridges and even the Statue of Liberty on a clear day.Top of the Rock is impressive at any time, but the experience changes dramatically depending on when you visit. Come during the day for clear panoramic views, or visit after dark to see New York transformed into a glittering grid of lights.
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2
Discover the American Museum of Natural History
Dive into fascinating exhibits that span dinosaurs, ocean life, and space exploration. The American Museum of Natural History invites solo travelers to explore at their own rhythm, uncovering interactive displays and scientific collections that spark curiosity. Don’t miss the adjacent Central Park for a tranquil stroll after your visit.
American Museum of Natural History
Up to 5 hours
$43.00Included with the The New York Pass®
The American Museum of Natural History in New York City is one of the largest and most celebrated museums in the world, welcoming over five million visitors each year. Spanning everything from dinosaurs and deep-sea creatures to space exploration and human history, it’s a must-visit for anyone curious about the natural world – and yes, you might recognise it from Night at the Museum.Inside, you’ll find some truly jaw-dropping highlights, including a 94-foot-long blue whale model, the 563-carat Star of India sapphire, and a towering giant sequoia nearly 2,000 years old. The museum is also home to one of the largest fossil and dinosaur collections on the planet, making it a favourite for science lovers of all ages.With your pass, you’ll get access to all permanent exhibition halls, plus entry to one ticketed exhibition of your choice, allowing you to tailor the experience to your interests.Our pass gives you access to all exhibition halls and one ticketed exhibition of your choice.Paid exhibitions you can choose from are: Invisible WorldsExplore nature’s hidden realms, from ocean depths to DNA strands, in this immersive family-friendly experience. Life at the Limits: Nature’s SuperheroesMeet the amazing species that survive and thrive on planet Earth. A spectacle of colors, textures, behaviors, specialized parts, and exacting skills. Encounters in the Milky Way A time-traveling journey about the cosmic movements that shape our galactic neighborhood, narrated by Pedro Pascal. The Giant-Screen FilmLupita Nyong’o narrates Worlds Beyond Earth, exploring our solar system’s dynamic worlds and Earth’s unique conditions for life. Butterfly VivariumEnjoy 80 species of free-flying butterflies in the year-round Davis Family Butterfly Vivarium. Impact: The End of the Age of Dinosaurs Impact: The End of the Age of Dinosaurs explores the before-and-after story of the cataclysmic asteroid collision that led to the mass extinction of the majority of life on the planet. Discover what happened sixty-six million years ago, and how it paved the way for new species.
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Get inspired at the Museum of Modern Art
Roam through MoMA’s halls to see masterworks by Van Gogh, Picasso, and beyond. This museum provides a thoughtful, creative atmosphere suited for solo visitors drawn to modern art’s breakthroughs, with rotating exhibits that keep the experience fresh. Nearby, grab a coffee or pause at Bryant Park to soak up the city’s energy.
Museum of Modern Art (MoMA)
Up to 4 hours
$30.00Included with the The New York Pass®
Rotating permanent collections, special exhibitions, and world-famous masterpieces—The Museum of Modern Art is a New York icon.MoMA is one of the most visited museums in the world, welcoming visitors attracted by the striking displays of architecture, design, drawings, paintings, sculptures, photography, prints, illustrated books, film, and mixed media.
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Unwind with the Bar Lounge & Rooftop Tour
Close day one by exploring NYC’s nightlife from rooftop bars with the Bar Lounge & Rooftop Tour. This guided tour lets solo travelers mingle and enjoy panoramic views in vibrant settings. It’s a fun way to connect with the city’s pulse after dark while savoring cocktails and atmospheric cityscapes.
Booking required
Bar Lounge & Rooftop Tour NYC
Up to 3 hours
$38.16Included with the The New York Pass®
Experience New York City after dark on this guided walking tour of its most atmospheric nightlife spots. Over the course of around three hours, you’ll visit three or more stylish bars, cocktail lounges, speakeasies and rooftop venues – all with express entry and the insight of a knowledgeable local guide.The tour takes you through Midtown West and Hell’s Kitchen, tracing the transformation of nearby Times Square from its gritty reputation in the 1970s to the bright, entertainment-filled district it is today. Along the way, your guide will share evocative stories about NYC’s immigration history and the dramatic regeneration of the area from the 1970s through the 1990s.Between venues, soak up skyline views from rooftop lounges, enjoy live music at select stops and discover where New Yorkers actually go for a great night out.Food and drinks are available to purchase at each stop, and you’re welcome to stay on at the final bar to continue the evening at your own pace. It’s the perfect blend of nightlife, history, and insider access.

1
Taste the City with Food on Foot Tours
Explore vibrant neighborhoods on foot and sample authentic local flavors. Food on Foot Tours are ideal for solo travelers keen to connect with New York’s diverse culinary scene, learn about the city’s food culture, and enjoy casual chats with fellow travelers while savoring hidden gems.
Booking required
Food On Foot Tours
3-4 hours
$59.00Included with the The New York Pass®
Renowned for its dizzying selection of tasty treats, New York is a delicious melting pot of diverse food and cuisines. On a tour from Food On Foot you'll discover how to navigate the options, find the top local picks and enjoy the most authentic NY eats.Get a true taste of the city as you find the New Yorker's favorite areas with your knowledgeable guide. Pick where you stop, what you get, and how much – it's all up to you.
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2
Rise Up to Edge for Skyline Views
Ascend to Edge, the highest outdoor sky deck in the Western Hemisphere, for unmatched panoramas. Take your time alone absorbing the vast skyline, snapping photos, and enjoying the exhilarating open-air experience. Nearby Hudson Yards offers shops and public art to explore.
Booking required
Edge
Up to 2 hours
$68.51Included with the The New York Pass®
Edge NYC Tickets Hudson Yards offers an unforgettable adventure for those seeking an unparalleled experience in New York City.Located in the vibrant Hudson Yards district, Edge NYC promises to take visitors to new heights with its exhilarating observation deck, which stands at an impressive elevation of 1,131 feet, making it the highest outdoor observation deck in the Western Hemisphere.One of the most exciting features of the Edge New York is the glass floor that extends out over the city, allowing visitors to step onto it and experience the thrilling sensation of walking on air. The eight-inch tempered glass is strong enough to withstand the weight of several people, and the 360-degree view it provides is simply breathtaking. Visitors can also enjoy the Skyline Bar, which offers a perfect vantage point to soak in the city's glittering lights and vibrant energy.Edge in New York is a truly remarkable attraction that offers a memorable and immersive experience.Whether you're a seasoned New Yorker or a first-time visitor, The Edge is a must-visit destination in Hudson Yards, Manhattan that will leave you with an indelible memory of the city that never sleeps.
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3
Experience Immersive Art at ARTECHOUSE
Step inside ARTECHOUSE for an innovative blend of art, science, and technology. Solo travelers can interact with dynamic digital installations that engage the senses and spark creativity. Located near the High Line, it’s easy to extend your visit with a scenic walk or riverside pause.
ARTECHOUSE New York
Up to an hour
$39.00Included with the The New York Pass®
ARTECHOUSE is New York's Original Home for Digital Art! Located in a 150-year-old boiler room beneath the famous Chelsea Market, ARTECHOUSE New York pushes the boundaries of art and science to create multi-sensory displays using state-of-the-art technology. Covering themes such as space, culture and nature, their technology-driven exhibitions use seamless megapixel count projections and Hyperreal Sound technology to create engaging and often emotional works of digital art.Once you've wandered through this impressive gallery space, we recommend making a pitstop at the bar.
With The New York Pass®
Get 50% off drinks at the XR Bar with your pass!
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4
Explore Creativity at Mercer Labs
Discover cutting-edge art that meets technology at Mercer Labs. This innovative space invites you to dive into interactive exhibits and new media art, making it a stimulating stop for solo travelers fascinated by the future of artistic expression and immersive environments.
Mercer Labs – Museum of Art and Technology
1-2 hours
$57.70Included with the The New York Pass®
Get ready for a one-of-a-kind, all-senses-on experience like nothing you’ve seen before. Mercer Labs isn’t your typical art gallery—it’s a multi-sensory, tech-fueled wonderland where every room pulls you deeper into a world of sound, light, and interactivity.Spanning 15 immersive exhibition spaces in the heart of NYC, this multi-level gallery is designed to make you feel. From mind-warping visual illusions to pulse-pounding sonic landscapes, Mercer Labs is an artistic playground where imagination runs wild and boundaries don’t exist.Maestros and the Machines ExperienceExperience the past and future collide at Maestros and the Machine. This groundbreaking exhibition, led by visionary artist Roy Nachum, explores how legendary artists like Mozart, Da Vinci, and Hokusai might have harnessed modern technology to create their masterpieces.Walk through a world where art is no longer static but living, breathing, and evolving. Maestros and the Machine reimagines timeless artistry through cutting-edge innovation, offering visitors a fresh and immersive look at creativity without limits.Art isn’t bound by time—and in this unforgettable experience, it’s brought vividly to life.
With The New York Pass®
You'll get one free mochi with your pass!

1
Walk Through Broadway & Times Square
Join a guided stroll with the Museum of Broadway through Broadway and Times Square’s bustling streets. Perfect for solo visitors eager to soak up vibrant stories, flashing billboards, and the famed theatre district’s energy. Nearby, explore eye-catching shops and street performances for added fun.
Booking required
Broadway and Times Square Tour
1-2 hours
$42.00Included with the The New York Pass®
Explore New York City's Theater District along this exciting two-hour tour and get a first-hand look at what it takes to be a star on Broadway.Not only will you have expert tour guides to lead you on the trip, but you will also hear from experienced actors that will tell you about their personal stories in the industry and how things have worked out for them with obtaining roles in big production Broadway shows. You'll also get to see some of New York's famous theaters that have featured the biggest Broadway shows.Broadway is a must-visit destination for theater enthusiasts. To immerse yourself in the world-renowned theater district and gain insights into the inner workings of Broadway productions, consider taking a Broadway tour.Just a few blocks away, Times Square tours provide a thrilling way to experience the energy and excitement of one of the busiest and most vibrant intersections in the world. To make the most of your trip, why not combine a Broadway tour with a Times Square tour?
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Visit the 9/11 Memorial and Museum
Spend time reflecting at this solemn tribute to September 11. The 9/11 Memorial and Museum’s moving exhibits and peaceful memorial pools offer a meaningful experience for thoughtful solo travelers. The surrounding Financial District invites exploration of historic landmarks and nearby parks after your visit.
Booking required
9/11 Memorial & Museum
2-3 hours
$36.00Included with the The New York Pass®
The 9/11 museum takes an in-depth look at the story through artifacts, testimonies, and first-hand accounts. Gaze into the reflecting pools and take in the tranquil pavilion of the 9/11 memorial before learning more about the Twin Towers tragedies through respectful interactive exhibits.Learn about the monumental impact of September 11, 2001, at the 9/11 Memorial & Museum, where the world-changing events are meticulously documented and commemorated. As you navigate the museum's exhibits, you'll uncover the stories of heroism, resilience, and unity that emerged from the ashes. The Memorial Plaza, featuring the two reflecting pools marking the former Twin Towers' footprints, pays tribute to the nearly 3,000 lives lost on that fateful day. Examine artifacts recovered from the World Trade Center site, including damaged fire trucks and personal mementos, to grasp the scale of the tragedy. Through interactive displays, witness how 9/11 shaped global politics, national security, and our collective consciousness, transforming the world forever.Get up close and personal with the human stories behind the tragic events of September 11, 2001, at the 9/11 Memorial & Museum. The museum's exhibits artfully combine personal testimonies, multimedia presentations, and evocative memorabilia to provide a comprehensive understanding of the day's events. You'll be moved by the stories of courage and sacrifice shared by first responders, survivors, and victims' families. The museum's historical exhibition meticulously chronicles the events leading up to the attacks, the day itself, and its aftermath, fostering a deeper understanding of the tragedy. The Memorial Plaza offers a serene space for reflection and remembrance, ensuring the legacies of those lost will never be forgotten.Start your educational journey at the 9/11 Memorial & Museum to learn about the events of September 11, 2001, and their lasting repercussions. The museum offers a detailed examination of the day's timeline, from the hijackings to the collapse of the towers, shedding light on the harrowing experiences of those affected. Multimedia exhibits and personal narratives bring you closer to the victims, survivors, and first responders who faced unimaginable circumstances. Engage with educational programs, guided tours, and public talks to broaden your knowledge of 9/11 and its impact on the world.The Memorial & Museum serves not only as a powerful reminder of the lives lost but also as a testament to the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity.
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3
Relax on the Circle Line Landmarks Cruise
Unwind aboard a scenic Circle Line Landmarks Cruise along the Hudson and East Rivers. View NYC’s landmarks like the Statue of Liberty and Brooklyn Bridge from the water, offering a peaceful perspective after busy days. It’s a refreshing way to engage with the city’s skyline and harbor life solo.
Landmark Cruise by Circle Line
1-2 hours
$45.00Included with the The New York Pass®
Sit back and experience New York City from a unique perspective on the Circle Line Landmark Cruise. Over 90 minutes, you’ll glide past some of the city’s most famous sights, including the Statue of Liberty, Brooklyn Bridge, Chrysler Building and more.Choose a seat on the outdoor deck for fresh-air views, or stay warm inside the temperature-controlled indoor cabins with panoramic windows. Throughout the cruise, engaging onboard commentary shares the history and stories behind the landmarks, giving you a richer understanding of the city as you take in that iconic skyline.This cruise is the perfect introduction to New York, offering both breathtaking views and fascinating insights.Whether you’re visiting for the first time or returning to see the city from a new angle, the Landmark Cruise promises a memorable experience on the waters of Manhattan.
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End Your Day at the Empire State Building
Conclude your adventure with a visit to the Empire State Building’s observatory on the 86th floor. From this legendary vantage point, enjoy sweeping city views and capture a memorable farewell photo. The surrounding Midtown area offers late-night dining options to cap off your trip.
Booking required
Empire State Building Observatory
Up to 2 hours
$56.62Included with the The New York Pass®
Ride up to the 86th floor, standing 1,050 feet above street level, and step out onto one of New York City’s most famous observation decks. From here, you’ll enjoy 360-degree views of the city that never sleeps, whether you visit in daylight or after dark. With outdoor heaters in place year-round, you can take your time soaking up the stunning NYC skyline in comfort, whatever the weather.Rising from the heart of Midtown Manhattan, the Empire State Building was constructed during the Great Depression and has since become a powerful symbol of ambition, resilience and progress. Today, it remains one of the most recognisable buildings in the world and is an essential stop on any New York itinerary.Your self-guided experience begins at the newly restored Observatory entrance, before leading you through the Empire State Building’s interactive museum. Spread across 12 immersive galleries, the exhibits trace the building’s remarkable story – from its rapid construction to its starring role in pop culture – with highlights including the chance to grab a photo with King Kong. You’ll also pass through the reimagined 80th floor, home to artistic installations and clearly labelled views that help you pinpoint what to look for once you reach the top.After exploring the exhibitions, make your way up to the 86th-floor observation deck for the main event: sweeping city views in every direction. To get even more from the experience, download the official Empire State Building multimedia guide, which offers detailed commentary on the landmarks and neighborhoods visible from each vantage point.

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Explore New York in 3 days: perfect for solo travelers

Day 1 – City views and world-class museums

Start at Top of the Rock Observatory

Top of the Rock Observation Deck

Discover the American Museum of Natural History

American Museum of Natural History

Get inspired at the Museum of Modern Art

Museum of Modern Art (MoMA)

Save your itinerary and get an extra discount

Unwind with the Bar Lounge & Rooftop Tour

Bar Lounge & Rooftop Tour NYC

Day 2 – Flavorful neighborhoods and sky-high thrills

Taste the City with Food on Foot Tours

Food On Foot Tours

Rise Up to Edge for Skyline Views

Edge

Experience Immersive Art at ARTECHOUSE

ARTECHOUSE New York

Explore Creativity at Mercer Labs

Mercer Labs – Museum of Art and Technology

Day 3 – History, landmarks, and relaxing cruises

Walk Through Broadway & Times Square

Broadway and Times Square Tour

Visit the 9/11 Memorial and Museum

9/11 Memorial & Museum

Relax on the Circle Line Landmarks Cruise

Landmark Cruise by Circle Line

End Your Day at the Empire State Building

Empire State Building Observatory

Dive into {{destinationFullName}} itineraries