New York Itinerary - 2 Days In New York

By Evangeline Leeder
new york

Planning on spending two days in New York City, but not sure what to do? We've put together the perfect New York itinerary to help you with your trip planning. You'll get a real feel for the city, from cruises and tours to museums and the famous skyline.

This itinerary will not only save you time, it’ll also save you money on your two days in New York. To make sure this itinerary works for you, we’ve included both walking and public transportation options to ensure you don't miss any of NYC’s highlights.

This 2-day New York itinerary includes...

Big Bus Hop on Hop off: 1-Day Classic Ticket

Empire State Building Observatory

Food On Foot Tours

Madame Tussauds

9/11 Memorial & Museum

Liberty Super Express Cruise

Whitney Museum of American art

Edge

If you’re planning on spending more days in NYC or you’re taking a whistle-stop one-day trip, we’ve also put together a 1 day in New York, a 3 day in New York, a weekend in New York, and a full week in New York itinerary.

DAY 1

Stop #1: Big Bus Hop on Hop off: 1-Day Classic Ticket

Hop on and hop off this double-decker bus sightseeing tour to explore most of the city! You’ll be guided through New York’s sights and sounds with the help of an informative narrator. You won’t miss a thing!

A few of the top sites you'll see include the Empire State Building, Brooklyn Bridge, Wall Street, Madison Square Garden, and many more.

You’ll get an excellent overview of the city's historical sites and landmarks while you hop on or off at any of the stops, making it an ideal option for you if you like a bit of flexibility.

Stop #2: Empire State Building Observatory

After seeing the Empire State building from the top of a bus, you’ll be eager to ride the elevator to the 86th floor and explore one of the most iconic buildings in all of New York. You’ll get the chance to snap plenty of Instagram-worthy pics 381 meters in the air, so don’t forget your camera!

Aside from its spectacular views, the Empire State Building has a lot of historical significance. Its art deco décor is an appealing feature for architecture enthusiasts. Check out the 24-karat gold, aluminum leaf mural on the ceiling!

We recommend you reserve at least two hours for this attraction. Keep in mind that elevator lines will add to your overall time spent at the attraction but you won’t regret it!

Read all of our tips for visiting the Empire State Building before you go to make the most of your visit.

Stop #3: Food On Foot Tours

Work up an appetite? Experience New York’s diverse culture by tasting a vast array of cuisines on The Food on Foot Walking Tour. A knowledgeable guide will lead you through the NYC neighborhoods, highlighting the best restaurants and food stops to explore.

You won’t be left hungry as there are several different tours available. So don’t worry, there’ll be a tour that caters to everyone's food desires. If you do plan on heading out for a lunchtime bite, the Midtown Mix tour might be the right option for you as it’ll give you the chance to try multiple cuisines .

Take a bite out of New York's streets.

Stop #4: Madame Tussauds

If you have time for one last stop...

Make your day memorable with some iconic faces! Sip tea with the Royal Family, start an election with Joe Biden, save the world with Spiderman, or get a rare selfie with both Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt. If none of these take your fancy, there are plenty more celebrities and experiences you’ll love!

Madame Tussauds is one of the top attractions in New York, combining both celeb-spotting opportunities and interactive experiences. These include: Suit Up with the Marvel Superheroes, Sit in the Oval Office, Join the Ghostbusters, Be a Tonight Show Guest, Star on Broadway, Face Off with King Kong, Walk the Runway.

Make your friends jealous with a photo of you kissing your favorite celebrity.

DAY 2

Stop #1: 9/11 Memorial & Museum

Starting the day at the 9/11 Memorial and Museum is an opportunity to avoid the crowds and pay your respects in silence. The 9/11 Memorial and Museum honors nearly 3,000 victims of these attacks and all those who risked their lives to save others.

Located in the footprint of the Twin Towers, the Memorial's twin reflecting pools are a must-see. With two enormous pools and trees surrounding them, it's a very moving place. A feeling of sadness is especially prevalent in the dark.

Both North Pool and South Pool were constructed on the same spots as the twin towers, creating a place of solemn reflection and remembrance.These pools are each nearly an acre in size and feature the largest manmade waterfalls in North America. The names of every person who died in the 2001 and 1993 attacks are inscribed into the bronze panels edging the pools.

It’s a place of deep emotion and great beauty.

Stop #2: Liberty Super Express Cruise

All aboard the big yellow boat! From Downtown New York City, it's the fastest way to see Lady Liberty!

You’ll see New York’s skyline from all angles while zooming across the seas to the Statue of Liberty. You’ll experience the magic of Lady Liberty in all her glory in just 45 minutes. Millions of tourists visit her monument every day as it serves as a symbol of hope for all who are fortunate to see its magnificence.

Feel the wind blow through your hair as you hear some of New York's most recognizable sights described in a brilliant guided narration. When you reach the majestic Lady Liberty, the boat will slow down for you to capture some memorable snaps while you get a detailed description of its history and significance.

No trip to New York City is complete without visiting the famous landmark, and the cruise is the best way to get up close and personal. You can't beat the view from the water. But expect a new hair-do by the end of the super fast cruise!

Stop #3: Whitney Museum of American art

 

Do you have an eye for art? The artistic genius in you will love The Whitney Museum of American Art. The Museum is home to modern and contemporary art of the United States, storing artwork from living artists and notorious favorites.

Lose yourself in the abstract strokes of O’Keeffe’s Music Pink and Blue No.2 (1918) piece. This is one of the many iconic artworks to explore from Whitney’s collection. You’ll be amazed by the collection which holds over 25,000 works, created by more than 3,700 American artists during the twentieth and twenty-first centuries.

You’ll get the chance to get up close and personal with upcoming artists, especially if you attend one of their exhibitions. The exhibitions often focus on socio-political and economic themes. The Museum’s flagship exhibition is the Biennial, which has been surveyed as the country’s leading recent developments in American art.

Name the artist before anyone else can!

Stop #4: Edge

 

Take in the city views from the angled glass walls while sipping champagne in the sky to top off the perfect two-day trip.

You’ll have perfect unobstructed 360-degree views of the sunset from the 100th floor. The 360-degree view includes the glass floor, where you can see the streets illuminated by the sun from beneath your feet.

Not only will you be thrilled by the panoramic view, but also the design of the building. You’ll question the safety of the dramatic observation deck that extends out of the building. It’s a masterpiece of architecture.

End your day on the Edge of New York City. It’s a sky-high experience!

 

 

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Evangeline Leeder
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King Kong Returns to the Empire State Building!

The Eighth Wonder of the World, a.ka. King Kong has returned to the Empire State Building. Not only is he the inspiration for a brand new Broadway show, but he’s also back where he belongs. The 86-year-old giant ape that first tormented the Big Apple in 1933 has returned with a vengeance in the form of an interactive exhibit at the iconic Empire State Building. Kong is a part of the new ESB museum that opened last week - a fun extension of the recently revealed tech-driven observatory entrance at 20 West 34th Street.   How to see King Kong at the Empire State Building To experience Kong in all his glory, guests can enter a thirties era office designed in line with the building’s Art Deco sheen. The most unnerving aspect of this room are the broken windows showing two giant ape hands reaching into the building. King Kong himself peeps in through the window via a video installation as he climbs to the top of the skyscraper. The new museum is another exciting phase of the building’s $165 million renovations, which includes a new lighting ceremony installation and digital hosts. Work is expected to wrap up by the end of this year. In addition to the King Kong exhibit, the museum looks at the history and cultural impact of the 45th tallest building in the world. The Empire State Building has popped up in over 250 TV shows, and films: the building’s first appearance was in, you guessed it, King Kong. These two icons go way back.   The Museum Be sure to check out these immersive experience featured across its nine galleries. Admission tickets ensure access to the new second-floor immersive exhibits; as well as entry to the iconic 360-degree view open air Observatory: The Site in the 1920s Starting at its very beginning, black and white photos show the empty site of the original Waldorf Astoria Hotel before the skyscraper’s construction began. Through building surveyors, Guests can look in and see the New York City streets of the late 1920s come to life in full color. Construction Step into the past with moving photographs based on the work of Lewis Hine. Visitors can also interact with specially commissioned cast sculptures of construction workers as they work and take their lunch break. Modern Marvel Creating a safe space for the environment is precisely what the building aims to achieve. The Modern Marvel exhibit outlines the specific measures taken to make the Empire State Building a world leader in sustainability. Otis Elevators Otis Elevators designed the original elevators for the 102 floors. Walk through a simulation of an actual elevator shaft in this dedicated exhibit from Otis Elevators. It showcases not only how the original elevators operated, but the latest technology installed in the newest elevators. With more than 10 million tenants and Observatory Guests each year, these enduring machines are truly fascinating feats of engineering. Urban Campus Most visitors aren’t aware that the building houses tenants from airline offices to tourist boards. The Urban Campus display offers a glimpse into some of the significant tenant spaces, amenities, and hidden views of the building. World’s Most Famous Building An original score has been created especially for the exhibit. Guests are free to explore the space, surrounded by more than seventy screens displaying ESB’s starring role in pop culture. These have been sourced from every decade since the 1930s with movie posters and clips. King Kong Stroll into an office from the 1930s where the famous giant ape’s fingers reach through the walls. Just like the classic movie, he dangles from the building and dodges vintage bi-planes. Those feeling brave enough can step into Kong’s hands for the ultimate Instagram post. Celebrity Many famous faces from around the world have graced the windy observatory atop the ESB. This exhibit highlights some of the most-famous visitors (athletes, musicians, actors) to the attraction. Their images and signed memorabilia adorn the walls. Guests can stop to admire these as they head to the elevators that will take them to their next stop: NYC: Above & Beyond on the 80th Floor. The museum is open from 8 AM to 2 AM, seven days a week. Get down there and meet Kong for yourself!   Need more inspiration on things to do in NYC? Grab a New York attraction pass and you'll save on all of the best New York attractions around!
Suz Pathmanathan
rain nyc
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Things to do in New York When it Rains

Rain; the burden of humanity. For millennia we've built roofs to keep it out, and created devices to keep it from touching our delicate skin. While you may be tempted to stay in when the heavens open, why let an entire weekend go to waste? Get out there and see what things there are to do in New York when it rains. Don't worry about the research; we did all that for you. Simply scroll down and learn all about the best things to do in New York when it rains! Including: American Museum of Natural History Madame Tussauds New York & MARVEL Universe 4D New York's amazing art museums Escape Virtuality Area 53 and more! Get historical, naturally What better way to dodge mother nature's shower than dipping into a museum? New York's full of the beauties, but we'd recommend the American Museum of Natural History. Why? Well, because it has freaking dinosaurs. What else do you need? The site of the famous Night at the Museum movies, inside you'll find one of the biggest collections of dinosaur bones on the planet. But of course, there's much more than just that. How does a 94-foot whale model sound? Equal parts awe-inspiring and terrifying? Absolutely. How about a giant, 2000-year-old sequoia tree? Brilliant. Why not top things off with a 563-carat sapphire named the 'Star of India'? Yes. All that and much more awaits you in one of the world's premier museums. So why wait? Easily one of the best things to do in New York when it rains.   Rub waxy shoulders with the stars Hollywood has become somewhat synonymous with plastic surgery. The ever-evolving need to reach perfection has resulted in generations of body augmentation. But if you think Hollywood is plastic, wait till you get a glimpse of the static stars at Madame Tussauds! Everyone's favorite fame celebration is here, letting you snap photos with all the stars. And best of all, there won't be a streak of blur in sight! Throw gang signs with Donald Trump, hop on E.T.'s bike without his permission, and mingle with other people who do acting! And, for you superhero fans out there, you can also attend Marvel Universe 4D, an immersive cinema experience that brings your favorite spandex-wearing heroes to life. And best of all, it's all inside! If it wasn't, would the famous people melt? Who knows? Get some much needed culture in you Speaking of ducking the rain, why not fill your mind while doing it? We're talking art, ladies and gentlemen, and New York's got more art museums than you can shake a brush at. Let's start with the Museum of Modern Art — or 'MoMA', because you've got to love an acronym in this day and age. It's one of the most influential modern art museums in the world, with a fantastic collection of contemporary pieces housed within its delightful walls. See the likes of van Gogh's 'Starry Night', and Warhol's 'Soup Cans' up close. And take photos aplenty, of course. Or, go check out the famous Guggenheim, another brilliant collection of works from artists around the world. With big hitters like Picasso, Manet, Cézanne, Gauguin, and Renoir on show, you're bound to find something inspirational within its beautifully-designed walls. Or, for more modern art from more alive artists, go hide in the Whitney Museum of American Art. Focusing on active artists from the US, it helps ensure the American art scene survives and thrives throughout the years. And who knows, maybe you'll discover the next big thing there, or find your new favorite artist? Whichever you decide to go to, having your mind blown at one of New York's art museums is definitely one of the best things to do when it rains in the city. Reality, but virtually better What better way to avoid the reality of a rainy day in New York than to escape our reality completely? Discover new, exciting realities via a funky headset at Escape Virtuality - NYC's biggest and best virtual reality fun house! Challenge a friend, or a stranger, to a myriad of sports, activities, and other immersive experiences. Glide down a mountain on skis, or run from monsters in a haunted house. Climb a sheer cliff, jump out of a plane, or hop behind the wheel of a souped-up racecar. Let your imagination come to life, thanks to the movement replication of Escape Virtuality's ergonomic setup. Feel every hill, every fall, and every turn. It really has to be seen to be believed, so go and get your mind blown on the next rainy day!   Area 51-adjacent Sometimes, the thrill of outdoor adventure is too good to pass up. We all have to get extreme sometimes, right? But if you're averse to a little downpour, you needn't throw cold water over the idea. Instead, head to Area 53 - New York's funner, safer alternative to Nevada's secret UFO base. Whether you're with friends, family, or planning a date, Area 53 has a wealth of fun activities on offer. Take your chances on the ninja course, try and escape the laser maze, bomb it down slides, or go head-to-head in the Battle Beam arena (think laser tag meets foam party). All that and much more awaits you at Area 53. Oh, and if you're looking for some kid-free fun, they also host over 21s nights with no rascals and sight, and a packed bar to boot. Secret drinks Let's round off our list of the best things to do in New York when it rains with a more refreshing downpour. We're talking bars, but not just any bars. Nope, today let's talk about secret speakeasies. Like many big cities these days, New York has seen the recent craze of faux-speakeasy slash cocktail bars hit its shores. So why not duck out of the rain and dive into a drink or three? La Noxe is one such place, and you'll find it tucked inside the 28th street subway station. Along with its rather diverse and affordable cocktail menu, you'll find a delightfully low-key ambiance, tapas bites, and smooth tunes in the background. Or, head to The Little Shop in Lower Manhattan. On first glance, it looks like your average convenience store, with snacks, household items, and other necessities on offer. However, head to the back, and you'll make your way into a secret speakeasy with a brilliant drinks menu. Your discovery will be the talk of the water cooler come Monday. And finally, pop into Attaboy, snuggled secretly into an often-overlooked part of Eldridge Street. This little speakeasy even has merch if you want to represent, and a patio - when the weather clears up. And that's our list of the best things to do in New York when it rains! With so many New York attractions to check out when the heavens open, why not see them all without breaking the bank? Grab a New York Pass and you can do just that.   
Dom Bewley
drummers at macys thanksgiving parade in nyc
Blog

NYC in November: Your Guide to an Unforgettable Fall Trip

NYC in November packs a punch: there’s a leaf-crunchy, pie-scented buzz in the air, half the city’s bundled in scarves, and every park feels camera-ready. Thanksgiving magic, twinkling early holiday lights, and enough cozy eats to keep you fuelled for days—it all makes this one of our favorite times to visit. Whether you’re a first-timer ticking off bucket-list sights or a return visitor hungry for New York’s hidden autumn gems, November’s a goldmine of experiences. Ready for parade confetti, world-class museums, and serious festive feels? Let’s dive into our top picks for NYC in November!  Our fave November activities in NYC include:  Watching the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade  Viewing fall foliage in Central Park  American Museum of Natural History  Ice skating at Rockefeller Center  Top of the Rock  Exploring the High Line  Edge  Broadway and Times Square Tour  NYC’s legendary food scene  Holiday window displays along Fifth Avenue  Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade: NYC’s Cult Classic  Stepping out on a crisp November morning to see towering cartoon balloons drifting down Sixth Avenue? It doesn’t get more “New York in November” than the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. This century-old event draws crowds wrapped in layers, clutching hot drinks, and beaming at gigantic Snoopy, sparkling floats, and high-energy marching bands. The vibe is pure celebration—kids and grownups alike find themselves waving at the confetti flurries while celebrities croon from showstopping displays.  If you love behind-the-scenes adventures, check out the balloon inflation event near the American Museum of Natural History the night before the parade. It’s festive, lively, and honestly just a little bit surreal as you stroll past colossal characters springing to life. During the main event, nab a spot along Central Park West early (or book a parade-view brunch at a nearby hotel for the VIP treatment). Whether you cheer from the streets or watch on TV in your hotel rocking PJs, the energy is contagious. It’s an only-in-NYC memory you’ll talk about for years.  Central Park: Autumn’s Grand Finale  November turns Central Park into a tapestry of gold, orange, and red, and every path seems designed for that perfect leafy photo. Crunch along The Mall’s canopy of American elms or stroll around the Reservoir, where reflections look almost cinematic. Near Bow Bridge, the views are show-stopping—especially when framed by golden leaves.  If you’re feeling active, a Central Park Bike Rental by Unlimited Biking lets you cover more ground at your own pace (and warm up on chillier afternoons). Prefer to move slow? Pack a picnic to enjoy at Sheep Meadow, or grab a hot chocolate from a nearby kiosk and people-watch by Bethesda Fountain. No matter your route, Central Park in November is New York's cozy, colorful heart.  Top of the Rock: Sweeping Skyline (and Leafy Park) Views  Why not swap sidewalk leaves for a leafy view from above? Top of the Rock, Rockefeller Center’s observation deck, is a standout November experience. The 360-degree panorama highlights both the skyscraper canyons and the autumn colors of Central Park, which look patchwork-perfect from this height.  Come early for softer morning light or, if you lean towards drama, visit at sunset when the city starts to twinkle. The deck never feels too rushed, so you can take your time snapping photos or simply gawking at the skyline’s changing mood. And with the Rockefeller Center ice rink gliding into action below, there’s a dose of impending festive joy in the air—a nice bonus for November wanderers.  Skate at Rockefeller Center: Classic NYC Winter Warm-Up  In November, Rockefeller Center becomes the city’s unofficial winter playground. The famous ice rink opens for the season, and even if you’re wobbly on skates, the setting is so dazzling you’ll want to give it a try. Skating here, surrounded by gleaming art deco towers and holiday decorations flickering to life, feels delightfully old-school.  Need a break from gliding? The rinkside restaurants and cafés serve up everything from warming hot cocoa to fancy winter cocktails. Nearby, the Prometheus statue and festive decorations provide the perfect backdrop for your annual holiday card photo (yes, it’s never too early!). Whether you’re skating solo or making memories with the crew, this is New York nostalgia in motion.  Edge: Thrills and Chills at Hudson Yards  Ready for one of the most thrilling city views around? Head to Edge, the highest outdoor sky deck in the Western Hemisphere. Here, glass floors temper any fear of heights as they offer direct views 100 stories down—and November winds will put some color in your cheeks! The glass walls mean spectacular, uninterrupted photo ops of the Manhattan skyline (and beyond, if it’s clear).  The vibe is dynamic and futuristic, with friendly guides sharing fun facts while you soak up those high-altitude views. Stick around for sunset: as the city lights flicker on and the last glow of daylight hits the Hudson River, you’ll understand why Edge is rapidly becoming one of New York’s top experiences.  Explore the High Line: Art, Gardens, and Autumn Air  November still brings a crisp energy to the High Line, Manhattan’s elevated park and urban art trail. The wildflowers may have faded, but you’ll find beautiful late-season grasses, sculptural trees, and ever-changing public art installations along the way. The combination of nature and city—plus Hudson River views—makes every stroll feel a bit cinematic.  You’ll pass creative food vendors serving up apple cider donuts, hot pretzels, and other seasonal snacks. Benches and overlooks invite you to linger, while Chelsea’s galleries and the Whitney Museum are just steps away for bonus exploring. Late autumn’s gentler crowds mean peaceful meandering with those big city views all to yourself.  Broadway and Times Square Tour: Theaterland in Full Swing  November marks the start of Broadway’s busiest season—perfect timing for theater buffs and curious newbies alike. Consider a guided Broadway and Times Square Tour for a behind-the-scenes peek at what makes this district hum. Passionate guides know all the best stage-door stories and can point out hidden gems among the dazzling theaters, vintage signage, and costume stores.  Times Square sparkles with light as holiday displays ramp up, adding extra glam (and plenty of great photo ops). Whether you score discount matinee tickets or stick to the tour, you’ll be walking in the tracks of legends and feeling NYC’s creative pulse. Top tip: Duck into a nearby deli for a post-tour slice of New York cheesecake.  Fifth Avenue Window Displays: Magic Before December  The holiday season starts early on Fifth Avenue, and mid-to-late November is prime time for shop windows bursting into full sparkle and creativity. Big-name department stores like Saks Fifth Avenue, Bergdorf Goodman, and Macy’s unveil elaborate window displays that blend artistry, storytelling, and a touch of winter fantasy. You don’t have to shop to enjoy it—just join the crowd of locals and fellow tourists as you wander from window to window, each one more enchanting than the last.  The best part about doing this stroll in November? It’s usually less crowded than the December rush, so you get a clear view of dazzling miniature villages, twirling ballerinas, and all the glittering details. The displays often come with music and light shows (especially at Saks, where the nightly light show is pure joy), and the entire stretch from 42nd Street to Central Park feels festive. If you’re in the area, pop into St. Patrick’s Cathedral for a moment of peaceful grandeur—it’s a dramatic contrast to Fifth Avenue’s holiday cheer just outside.    There you go—November in New York City is overflowing with cultural highlights and local rituals, each one a memory in the making. From leaf-crunching walks to sky-high views, from skating rinks to theatrical magic, there’s no shortage of ways to fall for New York this autumn.    Enjoyed this? Check out our guide to weekends in New York, and squeeze your pennies with the best freebies in the city.   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! 
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