New York, United States
3 Days in New York
About this trip
Embark on a whirlwind 3-day backpacking adventure through New York City, designed for the budget-conscious explorer.
Day-by-day itinerary
Day 1
5 stopsStaten Island Ferry
9:00 AMTake a free round trip on the Staten Island Ferry for fantastic views of the Statue of Liberty and the Lower Manhattan skyline. A classic budget-friendly NYC experience.
Activity1 hr 30 minWhitehall Ferry TerminalJoe's Pizza
12:00 PMGrab a quintessential New York slice for lunch at this legendary, no-frills pizzeria in the Financial District. A perfect cheap and delicious meal.
Restaurant1 hrJoe's PizzaBrooklyn Bridge and DUMBO
1:30 PMWalk across the iconic Brooklyn Bridge from Manhattan to Brooklyn. Once across, explore the cobblestone streets and waterfront of the DUMBO neighborhood, enjoying stunning city views.
Activity3 hrBrooklyn BridgeJuliana's Pizza
6:30 PMEnjoy dinner at one of Brooklyn's most famous pizzerias, located right under the Brooklyn Bridge. Savor classic coal-fired oven pizzas in a historic setting.
Restaurant1 hr 30 minJuliana's PizzaThe Local NYC
8:30 PMCheck into your highly-rated hostel in Long Island City. It offers a great social atmosphere, a rooftop with city views, and is a perfect base for exploring.
Lodging1 hrThe Local NYC
Day 2
5 stopsEss-a-Bagel
9:00 AMStart your day with a classic New York breakfast. Grab a freshly baked, hand-rolled bagel with your choice of schmear from this iconic spot.
Restaurant1 hrEss-a-BagelCentral Park
10:30 AMExplore the southern part of Central Park. Wander through The Mall, see Bethesda Terrace and Fountain, and pay a visit to the Strawberry Fields memorial.
Activity2 hr 30 minCentral ParkGray's Papaya
1:30 PMExperience a New York institution for lunch. Get the 'recession special' which includes two delicious hot dogs and a tropical fruit drink for an unbeatable price.
Restaurant45 minGray's PapayaThe High Line
3:00 PMWalk this elevated park built on a former railway line. Enjoy unique perspectives of the city, public art installations, and beautiful landscaping.
Activity2 hrThe High LineXi'an Famous Foods
7:00 PMFor dinner, head to the East Village for authentic, spicy, and affordable hand-pulled noodles from this beloved local chain.
Restaurant1 hr 15 minXi'an Famous Foods
Day 3
5 stopsLIC Corner Cafe
9:30 AMEnjoy a quick and tasty breakfast at a local cafe near your hostel before heading out for a day of exploration in other boroughs.
Restaurant45 minLIC Corner CafeBushwick Collective
11:00 AMImmerse yourself in vibrant street art at this massive outdoor art gallery. Wander through the streets of Bushwick to see murals from artists around the globe.
Activity2 hrThe Bushwick CollectiveVanessa's Dumpling House
1:30 PMA Chinatown must-visit for a cheap and delicious lunch. Feast on pan-fried or steamed dumplings and sesame pancake sandwiches for just a few dollars.
Restaurant1 hrVanessa's Dumpling HouseWashington Square Park
3:30 PMSoak in the bohemian atmosphere of Greenwich Village at this iconic park. Watch street performers, see the famous arch, and enjoy some of the city's best people-watching.
Activity2 hr 30 minWashington Square ParkMamoun's Falafel Restaurant
6:30 PMHave a farewell dinner at one of the oldest and most beloved falafel spots in the city. A truly authentic, delicious, and incredibly budget-friendly meal.
Restaurant1 hrMamoun's Falafel Restaurant
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