Ultimate Travel Guide for a Weekend in NYC

New York City is a magical and crazy place to visit and is on most people's bucket list. Whether you can stay for a month or only a few days, there is so much to see and do! Here is the ultimate travel guide for a short visit to NYC.

For those of you that are new.. welcome to my blog! My name is Savanna Crowell and I'm a wanderer who likes to share travel tips and favorite destinations. If you are interested in knowing more about my background, travels, or dreams in life, check out the 'About Me' section of my website. And don't forget to follow me on Instagram @solowithsav to join me on my journeys!

From Central Park, to skyscrapers, to endless shopping and Michelin star restaurants, NYC has something for every kind of traveller.

In the first week of December 2020, I made a road trip from DC to NYC for a short weekend trip. This is my second time ever going to New York and I found myself doing some of the same things I really enjoyed in the previous trip while also finding new places to explore. I've created a list of my top things to do if you only have a weekend in New York City.

What To Do in A Weekend in NYC:

1. Visit Top of the Rock Observation Deck

This is a 3-level observation deck at the top of the Rockefeller Center. It's $38/adult and $0/children 12&under, but is worth every penny! If you only have a short amount of time in NYC, you need to see the skyline and this is definitely the place to do it. The other option to see the skyline in the city is from the top of the Empire State Building, but I prefer this observation deck because you can view the Empire State Building from the deck.

**Once you check out Top of the Rock make sure to visit the Rockefeller Plaza and Radio City Hall

2. Bike around Central Park

Going to Central Park while you're in NYC is a must, and biking is my favorite way to do it. It's $9/1 hour, and make sure to stop at places such as: The MET, American Museum of Natural History, Umpire Rock, Bethesda Terrace.

3. Brooklyn Bridge

Take the A or C train to the High Street-Brooklyn Bridge subway stop for $2.75/one way and it's free to walk across the bridge. This is one of my favorite stops because it's free and provides amazing views of the city! I've only ever walked about half way, but if you walk all the way across to Brooklyn I recommend checking out Brooklyn Bridge Park for more incredible skyline views!

4. Times Square

The bright lights of Times Square are what you see in the movies! I'd recommend going after sunset when all of the lights are on. While you are there you can go into the many shops, restaurants, or even attend a play on Broadway!

5. Statue of Liberty

The statue of Liberty is an iconic landmark of NYC. You can view it for free from The Battery, but to get the best views you can take the ferry that brings you to Liberty Island for $19.25.

6. Soho

Shopping is the most popular reason for going to Soho. I'm sure you don't want to spend even MORE money while in NYC, but regardless checking out Soho while you're in the city is a must (even if it is just for an insta-worthy photo). This area has every clothing store you could think of and more, along with beautiful apartments, cobblestone streets, and skyscraper views. If you have time (& money) I'd recommend going to the Ice Cream Museum, but if you just want to walk around the cute neighborhood to take photos or do some window shopping check out Nomo, Broadway, Greene St. (looking south From Either Houston or Prince Street), or Pietro Nolita.

Some other of my favorite places include: Grand Central Station, 5th avenue, One World Trade Center, The Vessel, 9/11 memorial, St. Patrick's Cathedral, Washington Square Park

My favorite restaurants: John's of Bleecker Street, Joe's Pizza, Nomo Kitchen, Electric Lemon

My favorite dessert spots: Levain Bakery, Insomnia Cookies

These are just a few of my favorite places in New York City. NYC is perfect for any length of a trip, but these are must see places if you only have a weekend or short time to explore! I hope I have inspired you to check out the city. Until next time friends..keep exploring!! -Savanna