Best of New York

Skip the tourist loop — the real city lives block by block.

8 daysLocal favorites

Trip length

Best time to visit: April to June, September to November

Late spring and early fall offer mild days and lighter crowds than peak summer. Winters are cold and summers can be hot and humid.

Day 1 · West Village Wandering & Greenwich Grooves

1
Washington Square Park
Iconic Greenwich Village park, great for people-watching and soaking in the bohemian atmosphere.
2
Bleecker Street Records
Legendary independent record store, a true relic of classic NYC.
3
The Comedy Cellar
Catch a show at this historic spot where countless stand-up legends got their start.
4
Employee's Only
Speak-easy charm, classic cocktails, and a late-night supper menu.

1
Tenement Museum
Step back in time and experience the immigrant history of the Lower East Side.
2
Russ & Daughters Cafe
Legendary appetizing store, perfect for a classic New York bagel and lox experience.
3
Artichoke Basille's Pizza
Indulge in a unique and delicious artichoke slice, a true NYC late-night staple.
4
Tompkins Square Park
Relax in this East Village park, a hub for local culture and community.

1
Brooklyn Bridge Park
Stunning waterfront park with incredible views of the Manhattan skyline and Brooklyn Bridge.
2
DUMBO (Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass)
Explore the cobblestone streets, art galleries, and vibrant atmosphere of this trendy neighborhood.
3
Jacques Torres Chocolate (Dumbo)
Satisfy your sweet tooth with artisanal chocolates from this renowned chocolatier.
4
Grimaldi's Pizzeria
Experience classic New York-style coal-fired pizza under the Brooklyn Bridge.

1
Smorgasburg (Weekends only)
Foodie paradise featuring a massive open-air food market with diverse and delicious offerings.
2
Bedford Avenue (Williamsburg)
Browse boutiques, vintage shops, and local cafes on Williamsburg's main thoroughfare.
3
Bushwick Collective Street Art
Immerse yourself in incredible outdoor murals and vibrant street art in Bushwick.
4
Roberta's Pizza
Enjoy delicious wood-fired pizza and a lively atmosphere at this Bushwick institution.

1
The Cloisters
Discover medieval European art and architecture in a stunning, tranquil setting overlooking the Hudson River.
2
Fort Tryon Park
Enjoy breathtaking views, gardens, and walking paths surrounding The Cloisters.
3
Washington Heights
Explore this vibrant, diverse neighborhood with a rich history and strong community feel.

1
The High Line
Stroll along this elevated park built on a historic freight rail line, offering unique city views.
2
Chelsea Market
Browse gourmet food vendors, unique shops, and artisanal goods in this bustling indoor market.
3
Gagosian Gallery (West 21st Street)
Experience contemporary art at one of the world's leading art galleries.
4
Pier 59 at Chelsea Piers
Enjoy waterfront views and watch the boats go by on the Hudson River.

1
Roosevelt Island Tramway
Enjoy scenic aerial views of the Manhattan skyline and East River on this unique commute.
2
Franklin D. Roosevelt Four Freedoms Park
A beautiful memorial and park with stunning views of the UN Headquarters and Manhattan.
3
The Cornell Tech Campus on Roosevelt Island
Explore the modern architecture and innovative spirit of this growing university campus.

1
Central Park (Southern end)
Take a leisurely walk or boat ride, and people-watch in NYC's most famous park.
2
The Plaza Hotel
Admire the iconic architecture of this historic luxury hotel, a New York landmark.
3
Bergdorf Goodman
Window shop or browse the luxurious offerings at this legendary department store.

Start from this curated plan — Runes copies it into your trips so you can tweak dates, budget, pace, and stops. Personalized to your style soon.