24 Hours in NYC: Must-See in New York City + Map

24 hours in NYC isn’t a lot of time in one of the greatest cities in the world, but it can still feel wonderful if you plan your day well. If its your very first visit or you’ve been here many times, there is always something new to notice and enjoy. In this guide, I’m sharing how I like to spend a full day in New York City, blending a few classic sights with local favorites and little moments that make the day feel special.

Table of Contents for 24 Hours in NYC:

Morning (High Line, Brunch, Chelsea Market)
Afternoon (Your Museum Pick Central Park, Classic Lunch)
Evening (Dinner, Broadway Show, or The Summit)
Late Night (Rainbow Room or Times Square)
Where to Stay
Google Map
Full List

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24 Hours in NYC Morning

Stops: Brooklyn Bridge --> Breakfast: Jack's Wife Freda --> High Line --> Chelsea Market
Total Walking Time: 1 hour (or 9 minutes if you remove Brooklyn Bridge)

Stop #1 - Brooklyn Bridge - Perfect Start To Your 24 Hours in New York City!

There’s nothing quite like starting a day in New York City with the sunrise at the Brooklyn Bridge. Getting up early is worth it. The views are beautiful as the Manhattan skyline slowly brightens and the city starts to wake up. It feels like one of those classic New York moments that stays with you.

My best advice is to get there as early as you can so you can enjoy the quiet and take photos without the crowds. I like starting my walk on the Brooklyn side and heading toward Manhattan. The skyline opens up in front of you in the prettiest way, and for a little while it almost feels like you have the bridge to yourself. It is such a peaceful way to begin the day and it sets the tone for everything that comes next.

Another option for an overview of the city is a 90-minute Cruise to see Lady Liberty, Bridges and the Skyline.

Stop #2 - Brunch at Jack's Wife Freda - My personal fav spot for brunch in NYC

CC by 2.0 by Bex Walton

I love heading to the West Village for breakfast after a walk on the Brooklyn Bridge. Jack’s Wife Freda is one of my favorites. It still feels like a little find even though it’s well known. I usually book a reservation through Google Maps because it fills up fast. The atmosphere is friendly and relaxed, which is exactly what I want in the morning. I almost always order the shakshuka because it is warm, flavorful and so satisfying. Their avocado toast is a close second when I want something a bit lighter.

If I’m in the mood for something more European, I’ll go to Buvette. It is a small French café with pastries and really good coffee. It is cozy and charming in a way that makes you want to linger. Either option is a lovely way to ease into the day.

Stop #3 - Walk Along the High Line to Chelsea Market

After breakfast, a morning stroll along the High Line is a must. This elevated park is one of my favorite places in the city because it blends greenery, art and some of the prettiest views of New York’s architecture. It feels like a small oasis above the busy streets, and it is such a peaceful way to ease into the morning.

My kids love the High Line too. They get such a kick out of the outdoor art, the wide open walkways and the little spots where you can look down at the traffic. It is one of those rare places where both adults and kids can enjoy the city at a slower pace.

As you walk, make sure to pause for the view of the Hudson River. On a clear day it is gorgeous. The park also has small corners with seating where you can sit for a few minutes and take in the surroundings. It is a simple moment, but it always makes me feel connected to the city.

24 Hours in New York City - Afternoon

Stops: Lunch Options, Choice: NYPL or MoMA, and Central Park
Total Walking Time: 1 hour, 7 minutes or highly recommend using the Subway from Chelsea Market (17 mins) and then Bryant Park to Central Park (11 mins)

CC by 2.0by Shinya Suzuki

Stop #4 Chelsea Market for Lunch on Your 24 Hour NYC Adventure!

Once you’ve had your fill of the High Line, head over to Chelsea Market. Chelsea Market is just a short walk from the High Line, and it is perfect for a quick browse through local vendors and small shops. Whether I am in the mood for something sweet, something savory or just a fun little souvenir, I can always find something interesting there.

If you want a great lunch option nearby, the Chelsea location of Katz’s Delicatessen is a nice surprise. The lines are much shorter than the original, which makes it much easier with kids. We have gone there a few times with our family and always end up ordering the pastrami on rye. It is not inexpensive at around twenty four dollars, but there is so much meat that we usually share it. It is one of those classic New York bites that feels worth it.

Option: You can also do lunch later at Bryant Park after the next stop!

Stop #5 Choose Your Own Adventure: New York Public Library or The Met

After your morning stroll on the High Line, it’s time to dive into a bit of culture with a late-morning museum visit. If you’re a fan of classic literature and beautiful architecture, I highly recommend stopping by the New York Public Library at Bryant Park. The original Winnie the Pooh stuffed animals are on display there, and seeing them in person always feels a little magical. The main reading room is also incredible. It is grand and peaceful, and it has this quiet sense of history that makes you slow down for a moment. It is such a calming break in the middle of the city.

Option 2: If contemporary and modern art is more your style, the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) is the place to be. I love how the collection moves from Picasso to Warhol to pieces that feel completely new and unexpected. If you want to make the most of your visit, I recommend downloading the museum app. It gives you a quick guide to the highlights, which is really helpful when you are short on time but still want to see the major works.

Stop #6 Central Park - Iconic 24 Hour in NYC Must Do!

After lunch, I love spending some time in Central Park. It is one of the most loved green spaces in the city, and even on busy days there are plenty of quiet corners where you can slow down for a bit. I usually start at Sheep Meadow, where you can stretch out on the grass and take in the skyline. From there, I like wandering over to The Ramble. It is a small wooded area that feels surprisingly far from the city even though you are still right in the middle of it.

If you are up for something a little more active, renting bikes is a great way to explore the park’s winding paths. If you want something more relaxing, you can rent a rowboat at the Loeb Boathouse and spend some time on the lake. I also always make a point to stop by Bethesda Terrace and the fountain. The views from there are some of my favorites in the entire park.

Optional Tour: If you are running short on time, check out the Central Park Pedicab Guided Tours which you can choose from 1-3 hours with free cancellation!

Evening in New York City on 24 Hours!

Stops: Dinner and Broadway Show or Late Night Rooftops!
Total Walking Time: Depends on your choices.

Stop #7 Dinner Options for New York City 24 Hour Trip

For dinner, NYC offers a plethora of options that cater to every palate, from iconic Italian cuisine to vibrant Korean flavors. A classic choice for an unforgettable dining experience is Carbone, located in the heart of Greenwich Village. This Italian-American gem is renowned for its timeless dishes like spicy rigatoni vodka and veal parmesan, served in a vintage setting that transports you to another era.

The last time I was in New York City for 24 hours, I had an incredible meal at Jongro BBQ in Koreatown. They offer sizzling meats and an array of banchan (side dishes) that make for a communal and flavorful feast in an almost K-Drama Village setting.

Stop #8 - Choice: Broadway or City Views

Now you have a choice between two incredible experiences: catching a Broadway show or taking in the city views at night from Summit One Vanderbilt. We loved going with 3 generations in the daytime but I bet night is so cool!

Of course Broadway is undeniably one of the must sees! We've never seen a production on Broadway but we have seenBroadway's Aladdin off Broadway and loved it!

Late Night in New York City on 24 Hours!

CC by 2.0 by Photographing Travis

As your whirlwind 24 hours in NYC comes to a close, there's no better way to end the day than at the Rainbow Room atop Rockefeller Center. The atmosphere is refined yet inviting, making it the perfect spot to unwind after a packed day. Sipping on a perfectly crafted cocktail, you can take in the panoramic views of the city that never sleeps, with the Empire State Building illuminated in the distance.

Hotel Recommendations in New York City

Our family has personally stayed in all of these hotels and highly recommend them:

Higher End: (We've stayed in these for biz conferences and WOW!)
1. The Ritz-Carlton New York, NoMad
2. JW Marriott Essex Hosue (right on Central Park, I saw some celebrities there!)
Medium Range:
1. AC Hotel Times Square (great restaurant and rooftop!)
2. Renaissance New York Chelsea (amazing views!)