Let our Trip planner tool create your New York itinerary!

Vacations to The Big Apple keep you busy from dawn ‘til dusk. There’s a reason the buzzing capital is known as the city that never sleeps. But, how do you fit all the bucket-list landmarks, museums and tours into one trip?

By Selina Whitby

Published: December 13, 2024

Trip planner tool

Trip planner intro

That’s where our new AI-powered Trip planner tool comes in. In just a few clicks it generates a personalized itinerary showing you how you can visit all your must-sees, so you can spend more time sightseeing and less time planning.

Here's everything you need to know and how to give it a go…

Step one

Step 1: Answer a few questions

Let us know how many days you’re sightseeing for and who’s going. Then, we just need a starting point for your trip and the attractions you want to visit. Don't worry – we make it easy for you to find your favorites!

Step two

Step 2: Check out your itinerary

Et voila! We’ll provide your perfect trip plan complete with a map of the attractions and directions, so you can hop from one to the next with ease.

Step three

Step 3: Save big with The New York Pass®

Want to save money on your trip? Of course you do! We’ll show you how to see it all and save with The New York Pass®.

Want to give it a whirl?

Build your unique New York itinerary with our trip planner

We’ll give you the best route to check off all your must-sees, museums, landmarks and more

Create my own Generate my trip

Powered by our data and AI

BETA

Trip planner in numbers

Infographic

*Stats based on data collected up to December, 2024.

Selina Whitby

Content Lead

Selina is a copywriter and seasoned backpacker who has visited over 50 countries if you count Vatican City, which she does. Her most memorable travel experiences include tubing in Vang Vieng, doing New Zealand’s Nevis Bungee with a fear of heights, and taking a nine-hour flight with a toddler. On her bucket list is Rio Carnival in Brazil, walking the Camino de Santiago, and flying First Class (when she wins the EuroMillions).

Discover {{destinationFullName}} itineraries

Continue reading

sunset over the new york skyline

Where to Catch the Perfect NYC Sunset

Ready to add a little glow to your NYC itinerary? This city might be famous for its non-stop energy, but New York also knows how to slow down and put on a terrific show at sunset. Whether you want an epic skyline photo, a romantic riverside stroll, or a rooftop toast as the day fades, we’ve tracked down the top spots for sunsets across Manhattan, Brooklyn, and beyond. Pack your camera and your walking shoes—as dusk falls, we’ll show you where NYC lights up in every sense of the word. Our favorite sunset spots in NYC include: Empire State Building Edge Top of the Rock One World Observatory Brooklyn Bridge Park The High Line Statue at Sunset Cruise by Circle Line Domino Park Gantry Plaza State Park DUMBO Waterfront Empire State Building Looking to see the whole city sparkle as the sun sets? Head straight to the Empire State Building. The 86th and 102nd-floor observatories offer sweeping views in all directions. As golden hour arrives, the city’s landmarks—think Chrysler Building, Times Square, and the Hudson—transform before your eyes, and the lights begin flickering on below. There’s an energetic buzz as everyone counts down to sunset, making it feel festive and a little magical. Pick a clear evening, and you’ll watch sunlight bounce off skyscrapers all the way to New Jersey, then fade into a sea of twinkling lights. It’s brilliant for photographers and romantics alike. Arrive just before sunset for the full day-to-night experience. Bonus: as darkness falls, the Empire State Building itself glows in ever-changing colors, so the show never really ends. If you want a bucket-list NYC moment, this is the view to beat. Edge If you’re after a thrill with your sunset, Edge in Hudson Yards is a must. The triangular observation deck juts out over 1,100 feet above Manhattan, and those glass floors and angled walls give you the feeling of floating over the city. As the sun dips west, you get front-row seats to the glow across the Hudson River, with the Jersey skyline silhouetted in orange. The space feels sleek and modern, with just enough adrenaline to make every sunset unforgettable. Grab a drink from the bar and step out onto the open-air section for the best views—wind in your hair, city at your feet. It’s part urban adventure, part meditative moment. Edge stays buzzy well into the evening, so stick around to watch the city transform from gold to neon. One World Observatory Down in Lower Manhattan, One World Observatory offers next-level views. The 360-degree panorama is especially striking at sunset, as you can trace the shifting colors along both the Hudson and East Rivers. From this height, you glimpse the Statue of Liberty, Brooklyn, Governors Island, and even the distant bridges—each washed in changing light. The glass-walled observation space feels wide-open and dazzling. There’s a sky-high cocktail bar, so toast the city as the sun dips below the harbor. The vibe here is sleek but welcoming, with interactive displays and plenty of room to soak in the moment. If you love watching sunlight shimmer over water (and a dazzling cityscape to go with it), this downtown perch is a can’t-miss. Brooklyn Bridge Park Prefer your sunset with a side of green grass and waterfront breezes? Brooklyn Bridge Park delivers. With its lawns, piers, and tree-lined walkways, this is a laid-back pick for families, friends, and anyone who loves seeing Manhattan’s skyline light up from afar. The best spots are Pier 1’s lawns or Pebble Beach, where the East River glows pink and gold. The people-watching is fantastic, and there’s always a buzz—roller skaters, boats, dogs, and families in good spirits. Hungry? Grab a pizza from the legendary Juliana’s or Grimaldi’s nearby, or snag an ice cream at the Brooklyn Ice Cream Factory. You’ll want to linger as city lights take over from the setting sun. It’s the picture of NYC at play—relaxed, lively, and absolutely beautiful at dusk. The High Line Set your sights on sunset with a stroll along the High Line, Manhattan’s elevated park built on a historic rail track. Urban gardens, art installations, and Hudson River vistas make for a sunset stroll like no other. Walk toward the park’s west side entrances as the sun begins to set. The walkways offer open looks at Chelsea’s rooftops and the river, while benches and overlooks invite you to pause and sip a coffee or snack from Chelsea Market nearby. As the sky shifts, the city quiets just enough to make you feel far away from the bustle below. The relaxing vibe and unique angles make the High Line a favorite for both evenings with friends and solo adventures. Domino Park Brooklyn’s Domino Park sits on former factory grounds with an unbeatable view of Manhattan’s lower skyline. Wide boardwalks, vibrant playgrounds, and Tacos at Tacocina (don’t skip the fish taco!) make this spot a favorite with locals. As the sun sets over the East River, you get dramatic reflections and all kinds of shimmering hues. The scene is relaxed—think joggers, picnic blankets, and friends sharing drinks as ferries putter by. For a casual, unhurried NYC sunset with a Brooklyn twist, it’s hard to top Domino Park. Gantry Plaza State Park In Long Island City, Gantry Plaza State Park offers one of the widest views of Manhattan at sunset. The boardwalk hugs the East River, and restored gantries add a little industrial flair to those skyline photos. Grassy lawns, old rail tracks, and fountains invite you to linger, while the Pepsi-Cola sign glows as the city switches from daylight to neon. Piers stretch out over the water—perfect for romantic walks or a quiet sit as skyscrapers catch the last light. The crowd is welcoming, mixing locals, families, and travelers with ease. Bring snacks and a camera for stunning river views that’ll make you want to stay just a little longer. DUMBO Waterfront For a dramatic classic, head to DUMBO’s waterfront between the Manhattan and Brooklyn Bridges. Cobbled streets, Jane’s Carousel, and awe-inspiring bridge views define this riverside stretch. Come sunset, the sun sinks behind Lower Manhattan, lighting up both water and skyline. Grab a pie from Juliana’s or pizza from Front Street, then find a spot along the East River for one of the city’s essential golden hour moments. The creative crowd and Insta-worthy scene make this a local and visitor favorite. Few places deliver the city’s blend of history, architecture, and modern energy quite like DUMBO at dusk. Whether you crave heart-racing views from a skyscraper, a chilled picnic in a riverfront park, or a scenic cruise on the harbor, New York sunsets never disappoint. So find your perfect perch, toast the city, and watch as NYC does golden hour—its way. Enjoyed this? Get the lowdown on NYC’s best food tours, and discover how to save money on your trip. 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!

couple shopping in new york

Shopping New York: Chic Boutiques, Cool Markets & More

New York City promises shopping adventures at every turn—whether you dream of designer stores on Fifth Avenue, one-of-a-kind boutiques in SoHo, or quirky treasures at local markets. We’ve scoured the city to bring you the best spots for everything from fashionable finds to unforgettable food gifts. Ready to shop like a New Yorker? Grab your comfiest sneakers and let’s explore NYC’s top shopping districts, hidden gems, and markets that’ll tempt you to fill another suitcase (or two). We’re sharing our favorite places to shop in NYC, including: Fifth Avenue SoHo Chelsea Market Bleeker Street in the West Village Brooklyn Flea Canal Street Market Hudson Yards & The Shops at Columbus Circle The Strand Bookstore Grand Central Market Artists & Fleas Fifth Avenue Let’s start with the grand stage of retail therapy: Fifth Avenue. This stretch dazzles with a mix of world-famous department stores, luxury flagships, and beautiful window displays that feel worthy of their own walking tour. Stop in at Saks Fifth Avenue for high-end fashion and beauty floors that’ll make you swoon. Stroll past Tiffany & Co.—where sparkling jewelry takes center stage—or duck into Bergdorf Goodman, an NYC retail legend bursting with designer everything (check out the dreamy shoe department on the second floor). But don’t worry—Fifth Avenue isn’t just haute couture. The Apple Store’s striking glass cube, Nike’s five-story mega-shop, and LEGO’s playful flagship bring the fun to visitors of all ages. Want to snap the ultimate NYC shopping selfie? The Cartier façade is photo gold any time of year. We love Fifth Avenue for its sheer scale and New York glamor—you never know when a window display will stop you in your tracks, or you’ll catch a pop-up event on the sidewalk. Even if you’re just window shopping, the people-watching is unbeatable. SoHo SoHo’s cobblestone streets have long been a playground for fashionistas and trend-setters, overflowing with cool boutiques, high-end designers, and everything in between. Start your stroll along Broadway for favorites like Bloomingdale’s, then slip down side streets for indie fashion boutiques, jewelry studios, and dreamy home décor spots you won’t find anywhere else. The vibe here is effortlessly stylish, mixing classic cast-iron architecture with creative window displays. Shops like Reformation, Glossier, and KITH are seriously photogenic, and you’ll stumble on unexpected pop-up stores, street art, and vintage treasure troves if you wander off the beaten path. For a sweet treat while you shop, pop into Dominique Ansel Bakery for a famous Cronut or the Instagrammable cookie shots. We love SoHo because it feels like a living, breathing shopping magazine—trendy, historic, and always full of surprises. Bleecker Street, West Village If you’re looking for charming, neighborhood vibes, Bleecker Street serves up shopping with a side of classic NYC character. This leafy West Village lane is lined with independent boutiques, cool shoe stores, designer brands, quirky bookstores, and plenty of gorgeous bakeries when you need a pit stop (hello, Magnolia Bakery’s banana pudding). From the effortlessly elegant Maison Margiela to cult denim favorite Rag & Bone, you’ll find global designers sharing the block with local gems like McNally Jackson Books. Bonus: The picturesque street itself is the perfect spot for an old-school New York photo op. We’d happily spend an afternoon wandering, shopping, and sipping a coffee at an outdoor table. It’s the perfect place to find gifts—or fashion statements—you won’t see back home. Brooklyn Flea Ready to hunt for treasures? Brooklyn Flea is a vintage market lover’s dream, popping up on weekends in trendy Dumbo (under the Manhattan Bridge archway). Vintage clothing, one-of-a-kind jewelry, records, mid-century furniture, and quirky collectibles line the stalls, run by friendly locals eager to share the story behind each piece. There’s something magical about sifting through old movie posters or checking out stacks of vinyl while snacking on wood-fired pizza or locally-baked doughnuts. The crowd skews young, creative, and up-for-anything—making it a perfect spot for people-watching while you shop. Brooklyn Flea proves that shopping can mean hunting for history and supporting small, sustainable businesses—often with the best city views in sight. Canal Street Market If you love the buzz of a modern indoor market, Canal Street Market in Chinatown combines shopping and snacks under one beautifully designed roof. It features indie artists, jewelry makers, home goods, skincare brands, and a rotating mix of New York’s hottest pop-up ventures. Hop from artisan ceramics to sleek fashion finds, then head to the food stalls for matcha lattes, Japanese crepes, or sushi burritos. The market’s minimalist decor and neon signage make it as much a vibe as a shopping stop. This is the kind of spot where a quick browse can easily become a whole afternoon. We love Canal Street Market for its creative energy—and the chance to discover up-and-coming brands before they hit the big time. The Strand Bookstore Book lovers, rejoice: The Strand is a pilgrimage-worthy stop just off Union Square. With 18 miles of new, used, and rare books, plus tote bags and quirky NYC souvenirs, this shop feels like the city’s living room for readers. The staff make spot-on recommendations and themed displays change weekly, so you’re bound to discover something new. Don’t miss the rare book room (ask a bookseller for a peek) and the outdoor carts loaded with bargains. On weekends, the mix of tourists and locals all hunting for the perfect beach read or gift-worthy classic adds to the energy. We never leave the Strand empty-handed—it’s as much an experience as a store, and perfect for rainy-day browsing. Grand Central Market Grand Central Terminal is more than just trains—it’s home to the Grand Central Market, a bustling spot for gourmet treats, fresh pastries, cheeses, spices, and gifts. Pick up New York classics like Zabar’s smoked salmon or Eli Zabar sourdough, sample chocolates, or assemble a picnic for nearby Bryant Park. The bustling interior (with soaring ceilings and old-world charm) feels intensely New York, and the selection is all about local businesses and big flavors. It’s an easy stop during sightseeing—and you’ll leave with some of the best snacks in the city. Artists & Fleas For one last shopping spree, head to Artists & Fleas in Chelsea or Williamsburg—these lively spaces spotlight dozens of local designers, indie brands, vintage curators, and crafters. Every stall feels different, and you’ll come across everything from graphic tees to hand-poured candles, retro accessories, and upcycled art. It’s the go-to for handmade jewelry, creative prints, and vintage finds that make memorable souvenirs. We love chatting with the makers themselves—each vendor has a passion project and a story. If you want to show off something unique back home, there’s nothing better than answering “Where’d you get that?” with “Oh, just a little place in NYC!” The Chelsea location is tucked inside Chelsea Market (double win), while the Williamsburg outpost is just steps from hip cafés and the waterfront. The atmosphere feels buzzy and unpretentious, perfect for lingering and discovering something totally unexpected. New York City shoppers have it all: high-fashion legends, indie boutiques, inventive marketplaces, and treasure-packed street stalls. Each neighborhood brings a spin you won’t find anywhere else, from SoHo’s trendsetting style to Brooklyn’s vintage cool. Whether your suitcase comes home full of designer threads, rare books, local cheese, or artisan jewelry, you’ll have a whole city’s worth of stories and finds to savor long after your trip. Happy shopping! Enjoyed this? Check out our guide to making Pride in NY memorable, and discover the city’s best hidden gems before they secret’s out! 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!

Presidents Day New york

10 Things to do on President’s Day in New York

President's Day in New York often means special events are going on at the city's best museums, art galleries, and more. Check out our guide and make a plan for the holiday.

Get your free guidebook!

Plan your perfect trip with our insider guide – top attractions, itineraries and local tips straight to your inbox.