How to Spend Perfect 7 day Itinerary New York City

If you are looking for a “7 Day Itinerary New York City” or any number of days in New York City, you have come to the right place. If you are more interested in learning about Upstate New York, please check out our Finger Lakes Post.

Cos is originally from New York City. He served as the NYC Commissioner of the Department of Information Technology & Telecommunications (DoITT) during the Bloomberg Administration. As a result, we have some inside information to share with you.

What is the Perfect New York Itinerary 7-Days?

Like so many things in life, the answer to the Question “What is the Perfect New York Itinerary 7-days,” is that it depends. Because there is so much to do in New York City it clearly depends on what you want to do. Therefore, our “Perfect New York Itinerary 7-days” will provide you choices based on what you might be interested in doing. For your Perfect 7 Day New York City Itinerary you get to choose the activities based on your specific interests. Here are some of the topics that likely will focus your interest while in NYC:

1. Things to Do in New York First Time
2. Couple Activities in New York
3. Romantic Things to Do in Manhattan
4. Romantic Date Ideas NYC
5. Things to Do in New York For Birthday
6. Things to Do for 21st Birthday in NYC
7. Things to Do Downtown Manhattan
8. Things to Do in New York at Night
9. Underrated Things to Do in NYC

Create Your Own “7 Day Itinerary New York City”

Each of the following activities that you are likely to do are listed in this post, and  will be identified by the associated title and number to one or more of these interests: In other words, create you own “7 Day Itinerary New York City” based on your particular interests. Here we go:

Travel Around the City (Applies to all Interests 1-9)

Travel around NYC can be a challenge. NYC is a very crowded city and traffic is often very backed-up.  Modifications that were made during Covid to allow restaurants to expand outdoor dining into the parking areas on the streets, and bike lanes have made the street even more crowded. Recently introduced congestion pricing has reduced the overcrowded streets somewhat, but it is still difficult to get around the city.  Therefore we suggest public transportation and other alternatives.

Is NYC Subway Safe at Night?

Perhaps the number one question we get from first time visitors to NYC is “Is NYC Subway Safe at Night.” There are three challenges for the first time visitor to NYC regarding the NYC subway system:

1. It is complex because it is the integration of three different systems and connections can be confusing.
2. It is old and many stations are not readily accessible for those with handicaps.
3. It is uncomfortable traveling at night, and the subway is not always safe at night, as there are many undesirables on the trains. 

Nevertheless, if you get a good MTA Subway Map, you can manage the complexity and be safe during the day, by staying in the safe areas in Manhattan, which are most areas in Manhattan, and other safe areas of the city. Like most cities, you need to pay attention in crowded popular areas for pick pockets, and avoid areas where you will end up alone in an alleyway or other unsafe place. 

Unfortunately, if you are not comfortable taking the subway around NYC during normal hours, then you will be faced with the congestion that occurs regularly on the city’s crowded streets. While taxi and hide-share services are readily available, they can be pricey and slow do to New York’s congestion and congestion pricing fees. Therefore, we recommend you consider the subway. However, it is complex and, unfortunately, it is easy to make a mistake, and jump on a train that will not get you to your desired destination. Just be careful when you travel. We don’t recommend riding on the subway at night.

Try the Hop-on Hop-off Service (Applies Specifically to Things to do in New York First Time #1 and also for Interests #2 – #7)

As an alternative to get to know the city we recommend you try the Big Bus.

Couple Activities in New York #2: Midtown Manhattan

Midtown Manhattan covers a large area in the center of NYC that offers a number of fun things to do. Following are just some of our favorites which you can easily fit into your New York Itinerary 7 days visit. 

Things to Do in New York First Time: Times Square and Broadway 

Times Square is certainly the center of NYC.  It applies to all interests and certainly presents many Things to do in New York First Time #1. . But is especially good for Things to Do in New York at Night #8. Broadway runs through Times Square and so does the Theater District. We try to see at least one show every time we visit New York. If you want to learn more about Broadway and the Theater District please see our Famous Theaters Post.

New York Itinerary 7-Days: Bryant Park and the New York Public Library

In the heart of Midtown Manhattan is this wonderful small park that backs up to the New York Public Library. Bryant Park is a great place to catch a snack or a full meal. The Library is wonderful just to walk around. Together they consume two full New York City Blocks, from 5th Avenue to Avenue of the Americas between 40th and 42nd Street. 

New York Itinerary 7-Days: Visit the United Nations and Grand Central Station

The United Nations is located on the East River in Midtown Manhattan, and is a short walk from Grand Central Terminal which is also a must visit while in NYC. While the UN is probably the #1 most important places to visit in NYC,  unfortunately, arranging a visit is not easy.  Visitors are only permitted on certain days, and arranging a reservation is not an easy process.  Nevertheless, if you are able to work your way through the application process, like Cos and Robin did in June of 2025, then you will experience a life-time event. 

Grand Central Station is also a must visit.  While there, also check out Summit One Vanderbult, next door to Grand Central Station. It is NYC’s newest high-rise observation deck.  

Underrated Things to Do in NYC #9: Visit Hudson Yards

Hudson Yards in on the West or Hudson River Side of Midtown Manhattan and for years was clearly underrated. Then some influential people in New York teamed-up with Dan Doctoroff during the Bloomberg Administration and created the High Line, from the abandoned, elevated rail road tracks that ran from the Hudson Yards south to Greenwich Village and Union Square in lower Manhattan. They created a beautiful park out of the abandoned rail road tracks and a walk on the High Line has become one of the Romantic things to do in Manhattan. Along the walk you can visit Chelsea Market which is an interesting place created out of an old warehouse near the former NYC Meat Market.

Romantic Date Ideas NYC #4: Rockefeller Center

Okay, the Hidden Gems come later, but for the moment enjoy “The Rock“. Home to the famous Christmas Tree, the ice-skating rink with Prometheus watching the skaters and Atlas holding up the world. The Rockettes perform here at Radio City Music Hall, and the Today Show, the Tonight Show and Saturday Night Live have their studios here. You can also travel up to the “Top of The Rock” to the observation deck and even eat up there at the Rainbow Room. Applies to all interests, but a particular great place for “Romantic Things to Do in Manhattan #3” and “Romantic Date Ideas #4.”

Also, while you are visiting “The Rock”, there are a number of other fun things to do in the area. If you are a shopper, you will want to visit all the great shops on 5th and Madison Avenues. The Diamond District is close by on 47th Street. You should also check out St. Patrick’s Cathedral and perhaps the Museum of Modern Art.

Things to do in New York at Night #8: Best Time to Visit Empire State Building

The “Best Time to Visit the Empire State Building” depends on what kind of experience you’re after—whether it’s avoiding crowds, catching a stunning sunset, or seeing the city sparkle at night. Ever since the Empire State Building became taller than the Chrysler Building back in 1931, it has been a NYC landmark. 

Here’s how to time your visit to meet your interests:

🌅 For Sunset Views
• Time: Arrive 45–60 minutes before sunset
• Why: Watch the city transition from golden hour to twinkling lights—absolutely magical
• Tip: Sunset slots are popular, so book in advance to secure your spot

🧘‍♂️ To Avoid Crowds
• Time: Right when it opens—9 AM during peak season (April–September), 10 AM otherwise
• Days: Monday or Tuesday are the quietest
• Why: Fewer lines, peaceful observation decks, and better photo ops

🌃 For Night Views – things to do in New York at Night
• Time: After 10 PM
• Why: The city lights are dazzling, and the decks are much quieter
• Bonus: Great for romantic vibes or a relaxed solo visit

📸 Best for Photography
• Morning (9–10:30 AM): Clear skies and crisp light
• Sunset: Dramatic lighting and city glow
• Night: Iconic skyline lit up like a constellation

How to See Central Park: Romantic Things to Do in Manhattan #3

A few blocks north of Rockefeller Center is NYC’s Central Park. This is a great place for a stroll through some beautiful scenery. Not having been overly familiar with the north end of the park, we took a tour in 2021 from Get Your Guide and really got to learn about and appreciate the more remote parts of the park. The lower end of the park, starting at 59th Street, is full of statues and other memorabilia. The Conservatory that runs the park has moved in recent years to install more balanced statues that appeal to a broader crowd than just old war heroes on horses.

The “Best time to Visit Central Park”  is pretty much anytime, except it is probably not one of the best things to do in New York at Night, as is can be a little dangerous in areas that are not well lit. Surprisingly, one of the more “Underrated Things to Do in NYC” is to visit the northern-end of the park near Harlem, where there are plenty of trees and birds, and you feel like you have left the city. 

Things to Do Downtown Manhattan #7

Lower Manhattan has always had a charm. Greenwich Village, Washington Square Park, Little Italy, Chinatown, Wall Street, Trinity Church, the Brooklyn Bridge and the Manhattan Bridge all have a special charm.  We will focus on two places we strongly recommend you visit, Chinatown and Battery Park where you will find the best way to see Ellis Island and Statue of Liberty on Liberty Island. 

New York Itinerary 7 Days: NYC Chinatown

We head downtown to what we consider to be one of the best places in NYC to get a good meal at a good price. Heck, even McDonald’s is getting into the food business in Chinatown. Peking Duck, if done right, as shown on the menu, is one of Cos’s most favorite meals. The Peking Duck House, at 28 Mott Street is the best place to get a great Peking Duck meal. Check out Our Favorite Restaurants page for even more great places to eat in New York City and other great food joints around the world, or check out our post on places to eat near Houston Street, NYC.

This activity applies especially for “Things to do in New York First Time.” A trip to NYC is not complete without a visit to Lady Liberty, “Things to do in Downtown Manhattan.”

Oldest Bar in Manhattan (Applies to all Categories 1-9, and especially for “Things to Do for 21st Birthday NYC)

Manhattan is steeped in history, and its bars are no exception. If you’re looking to sip your way through time, here is the “Oldest Bar in Manhattan”, and some additional old bars and most iconic watering holes in the borough:

Fraunces Tavern (1762) – Financial District

• The oldest bar in NYC, once frequented by George Washington.
• Features multiple themed rooms like the Independence Bar and the Piano Bar Upstairs.

The Ear Inn (1817) – West Village

• Housed in the historic James Brown House.
• Originally a sailor’s haunt, now a laid-back dive with a rich past.

McSorley’s Old Ale House (1854) – East Village

• Famous for its motto: “Be Good or Be Gone.”
• Served only men until 1970; now a beloved spot for locals and tourists alike.

Pete’s Tavern (1864) – Gramercy

• Claims to be the oldest continuously operating bar and restaurant in NYC.
• O. Henry allegedly wrote The Gift of the Magi here.

Landmark Tavern (1868) – Hell’s Kitchen

• Originally an Irish waterfront saloon.
• Rumored to be haunted and full of Civil War-era charm.

Old Town Bar (1892) – Flatiron District 

• Known for its vintage vibe, long mahogany bar, and classic NYC burgers.

Mulberry Street Bar (1908) – Little Italy

• Featured in films like The Godfather Part III and Goodfellas.
• A true cinematic and cultural relic.

These bars aren’t just places to grab a drink—they’re living museums of New York’s past.

NYC Outer Boroughs

Cos’s friends who he worked with in New York City Government, would hold him in contempt if he didn’t at least mention one or two attractions that are perfect to visit outside of Manhattan. Despite being born in Queens, and having grown up and moved into NYC from the suburbs, to him NYC was Manhattan. The only places he frequented in NYC outside of Manhattan was to go to a baseball game at either Yankee Stadium in the Bronx, or Shea Stadium (now Citi Field) in Queens.  he He had to learn that the other four boroughs were equally important, and never refer to “The City,” as Manhattan. 

What to Do at Coney Island in Brooklyn

 At least at this point in developing your “7 day Itinerary New York City,” we will focus on What to Do at Coney Island. First a word of caution. If you have limited time, chances are a trip out to visit Coney Island, may not be possible, as it will take most of a day.  However, if you are traveling via JFK airport, ask you driver to take the Belt Parkway route to the airport, and you will pass right by Coney Island. It is not as good as visiting Coney Island, but at least you will get a feel for the place.

On a recent trip in 2022 coming back from a long stay in Europe, Cos’s connecting flight was cancelled at JFK and he found himself stranded. So, since Robin had never seen Coney Island they decided to stay in Brooklyn and check out the famed amusement park. Here are some of the famous pictures including the original Nathan’s Hot Dog store.