24 Hours in NYC: Mix of Must-See & Local Favs + Map!

24 hours in NYC may not be a lot of time in one of the greatest cities in the world but it can be WONDERFUL if you plan your time right! Whether you’re here for the first time or you’ve visited before, there’s always something new to discover. In this guide, I’m sharing my perfect 24 hours in NYC, packed with a mix of classic sights, local favorites, and a few surprises along the way.

Table of Contents for 24 Hours in NYC:

Morning (High Line, Brunch, Chelsea Market)
Afternoon (You Pick Museum/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!

Let me tell you, there’s nothing quite like starting your day in New York City with a sunrise at the Brooklyn Bridge. Trust me on this one—getting up early is so worth it. The views are absolutely stunning, with the Manhattan skyline lighting up as the sun rises. It’s one of those quintessential NYC moments that just feels magical. Here’s my little insider tip: get there as early as you can to avoid the crowds and snag the best photos. Start your walk on the Brooklyn side and make your way toward Manhattan. This direction gives you that perfect view of the skyline unfolding before you, and you’ll feel like you’ve got the city all to yourself, at least for a little while. After soaking it all in, you’ll be ready to dive into the day, feeling like you’ve already had a truly New York experience.

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

After soaking in the sunrise at the Brooklyn Bridge, there's no better way to start the day than with breakfast in the West Village. I absolutely love Jack’s Wife Freda—it’s one of those places that feels like a hidden gem, even though it’s pretty popular. I highly recommend you make reservations on Google Maps. The vibe is friendly and laid-back, making it perfect for a relaxed morning. I usually go for the shakshuka, which is just the right mix of hearty and flavorful, but their avocado toast is a close second. If you’re in the mood for something cozy and classic, Buvette is another great option. It’s a tiny French café known for its pastries and coffee, and it’s perfect if you’re craving something a bit more European. Either way, you can’t go wrong!

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 spots in the city, offering a unique blend of greenery, art installations, and some of the best views of the city’s architecture. It’s like a little oasis above the hustle and bustle of the streets below. I’d recommend starting early, especially on weekends, to enjoy a quieter walk before the crowds arrive. As you make your way along the High Line, don’t miss the view of the Hudson River—it’s especially beautiful on a clear day. The park also has these little nooks with seating, where you can just sit back and soak in the surroundings.

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. It’s just a short walk away and is perfect for a quick browse through local vendors and shops. Whether you’re in the mood for artisanal treats or unique souvenirs, Chelsea Market has something for everyone. You can also have the famous Katz Delicatessen for lunch, which has much fewer lines than the original. We've gone here a couple of times with our family and had the indescribable pastrami on rye. It is $24 but enough meat to feed a family!

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. Not only can you see the original Winnie-the-Pooh stuffed animals, but the library’s reading room is a sight to behold—grand, peaceful, and filled with history. It’s a quiet moment of reflection in the heart 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. MoMA’s collection is world-renowned, featuring works from Picasso to Warhol. To make the most of your time, download the museum’s app for a quick guide to the must-see exhibits. It’s a lifesaver if you’re on a tight schedule.

Stop #6 Central Park

After lunch, take some time to explore Central Park, one of the city’s most beloved green spaces. While the park can be bustling, there are plenty of peaceful spots to unwind. I suggest starting at Sheep Meadow for a bit of relaxation on the grass, then making your way to The Ramble, a woodland area that feels miles away from the city’s noise. If you’re feeling adventurous, rent a bike and take a ride through the park’s winding paths, or for something more leisurely, consider renting a rowboat at the Loeb Boathouse and spending some time on the lake. Don’t miss the iconic Bethesda Terrace and Fountain, which offer some of the best views in the park. Whether you’re looking to relax or explore, Central Park has something for everyone, and it’s a perfect way to recharge before continuing your day in the city.

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. The allure of Broadway is undeniable—there’s nothing quite like the magic of live theater, the energy of the crowd, and the chance to see world-class performances up close. Whether it’s a classic like The Phantom of the Opera or a new hit like Hamilton, the thrill of Broadway is something that stays with you long after the final curtain falls. We saw Broadway's Aladdinand loved it!

On the other hand, we loved our visit to the top of Summit One Vanderbilt and gazing out over the sparkling cityscape. The panoramic views from this modern marvel are breathtaking, especially as the sun sets and the city lights begin to twinkle. It’s a tough choice, but no matter which I pick, I know the night will be unforgettable. Tickets here!

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: (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!)