Experience the Big Apple: A Day in New York City

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Explore the bustling streets, iconic landmarks, and diverse neighborhoods of New York City in just one day. Here, you’ll find a sampling of lesser-known spots you may want to check out during your visit.

One Day in NYC Itinerary

View of Manhattan from Empire State Building.
View from Empire State Building. Photo credit: Lisa MarcAurele

New York City is a large and bustling metropolis that can be overwhelming for first-timers. With so much to see and do, it can be hard to know where to start. These suggestions for a one-day NYC itinerary will help you maximize your time in the Big Apple.

Pier 57 NYC

Pier 57 NYC.
Pier 57 NYC. Photo credit: Devon MarcAurele

Do you want to blend in with the ‘New Yorkers’ and escape the tourist traps? Visit Pier 57 located between midtown and lower Manhattan!
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Little Island NYC

View of Little Island NYC.
Little Island NYC. Photo credit: Devon MarcAurele

Want to visit a city park with some stunning views? Check out Little Island NYC! This quaint little park recently opened up in 2021 in the greater Hudson River Park. It also offers some stunning views on the west shores of Manhattan.
See More: Little Island NYC

Pebble Beach in Brooklyn, NY

View from Pebble Beach Broooklyn.
Pebble Beach Broooklyn. Photo credit: Devon MarcAurele

Hanging out in Brooklyn? Looking for a quaint place to visit between so many iconic New York landmarks? Look no further than visiting Pebble Beach NYC. This picturesque beach is located in Brooklyn Bridge Park.
See More: Pebble Beach in Brooklyn, NY

Bushwick Inlet Park

View of Manhattan from Bushwick Inlet Park.
Manhattan from Bushwick Inlet Park. Photo credit: Devon MarcAurele

Spending time in Brooklyn and looking for a free green space to take family or friends? Look no further than Bushwick Inlet Park. This waterfront park overlooks the East River and the Manhattan skyline.
See More: Bushwick Inlet Park

North 5th Street Pier And Park

Pier at North 5th Street Pier and Park.
North 5th Street Pier and Park. Photo credit: Devon MarcAurele

Want a relaxing place along the East River? Need somewhere to take a break after a rough ferry ride? In search of a beautiful spot overlooking Manhattan and Williamsburg? Check out North 5th Street Pier and Park for all these and more.
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Grand Ferry Park Brooklyn NY

View at Grand Ferry Park Brooklyn NY.
Grand Ferry Park Brooklyn NY. Photo credit: Devon MarcAurele

Looking to catch a glimpse of the downtown Manhattan skyline? In need of a quiet getaway in beautiful Williamsburg? Want to sit back and enjoy the relaxing waves of the East River? Look no further than Grand Ferry Park.
See More: Grand Ferry Park Brooklyn NY

Union Square Park In NYC

Monument at Union Square Park.
Union Square Park. Photo credit: Devon MarcAurele

Union Square Park is one of the most beloved and scenic parks in the heart of New York City. Home to various iconic attractions, this park has something for everyone – from green spaces for relaxation and outdoor activities.
See More: Union Square Park In NYC

Marsha P. Johnson State Park

View at Marsha P. Johnson State Park.
Marsha P. Johnson State Park. Photo credit: Devon MarcAurele

Explore the natural beauty of Marsha P. Johnson State Park, located on the Hudson River waterfront in NYC. Enjoy stunning views, wildlife watching & more!
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Nino’s Restaurant NYC

Owner of Nino's Restaurant NYC.
Nino’s Restaurant NYC. Photo credit: Devon MarcAurele

Want some exceptional service and great food away from all of the tourists? Look no further than Nino’s Restaurant on the Upper East Side. You and your guests will have a great dining experience with delicious food, wine, and cocktails.
See More: Nino’s Restaurant NYC

Milk & Hops Chelsea NYC

Charcuterie board at Milk & Hops Chelsea NYC.
Milk & Hops Chelsea NYC. Photo credit: Devon MarcAurele

Milk & Hops in Chelsea in a cool place to grab some craft beers. The service is great, the food hits the spot, and it is a quaint place to escape the city’s hustle and bustle. Its convenient location has you near several parks, piers, and other local attractions.
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Barcade NYC

Bar at Barcade NYC.
Barcade NYC. Photo credit: Devon MarcAurele

Want to listen to good music in a great atmosphere? Also want to play Arcade games that you grew up on? Good time out of the house? Check out Barcade NYC. It’s a great place to hang out in Chelsea.
See More: Barcade NYC

Radegast Hall & Biergarten

Bar at Radegast Hall & Biergarten.
Radegast Hall & Biergarten. Photo credit: Devon MarcAurele

Looking for an authentic biergarten in Brooklyn? Want some authentic German beer and food? Want for a fun time out with friends or family? Then check out Radegast Hall & Biergarten on North 3rd Street in Brooklyn, New York.
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Botte Brooklyn NYC

Neon sign for Botte Brooklyn NYC.
Botte Brooklyn NYC. Photo credit: Devon MarcAurele

In search of a nice Italian restaurant in downtown Brooklyn? Want fantastic cocktails and great service? Head over to Botte Brooklyn NYC. The food and cocktails will not disappoint!
See More: Botte Brooklyn NYC

Other Half Brewing Company At Domino Park

Other Half Brewing Company bar.
Other Half Brewing Company in Domino Park. Photo credit: Devon MarcAurele

Are you looking to beat the summer heat in Brooklyn, NY? Want to try some great craft beer from a local Brooklyn brewery? Want to enjoy the Manhattan skyline? Look no further than Other Half Brewing Company in Domino Park!
See More: Other Half Brewing Company At Domino Park

Wolf And Warrior Brewing Company

Beer sampling at Wolf and Warrior Brewing Company.
Warrior Brewing Company. Photo credit: Devon MarcAurele

Looking to catch a bite to eat in White Plains NY just outside of the city? Want to try some local beer? In need of a fun vibe? Head over to Wolf and Warrior Brewing Company!
See More: Wolf And Warrior Brewing Company

More Ideas for a Trip to NYC

911 Memorial NYC.
911 Memorial NYC. Photo credit: Devon MarcAurele

Creating an itinerary for your trip to the Big Apple will depend on what you want to do. There are so many options that it can be challenging to choose. And there’s no way to see all the top attractions daily.
See More: One Day In NYC Itinerary

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