New York City is without a doubt the most famous city in the USA and the most popular for tourists. The Big Apple receives over 60 million tourists every year, who come to see the sights and soak up the culture. In such a big city with so much to do, it’s best if you can spend at least a week there. However, you can still do a lot even with a few days. Here’s a look at what you can do with a short visit to the Big Apple.

Day One

New York Bagels

Sunday Bagel by Brian Holsclaw from flickr.com is licensed under CC BY-ND 2.0.

Start your NYC trip off with a local classic – a New York bagel. This popular breakfast item originated in Jewish communities in Poland in the 17th century and eventually made their way to New York. Ask any New Yorker, and they’ll tell you the city has the best bagels in the country. A great place to go to try one is Murray’s Bagels. You can choose from a wide variety of bagels, such as everything or sesame seed. Pick your favorite flavor of cream cheese, and definitely be sure to add some lox – a filet of smoked salmon.

Central Park

Central Park

After that big breakfast, it’s time for a walk. Head to Central Park and spend a few hours exploring. This massive park is known as the “lungs of New York” and it’s the most visited urban park in the United States. Here you can paddle a boat on the lake, join a pickup game of basketball, take a ride on the carousel, and so much more. You can also include a visit to the MOMA (Metropolitan Museum of Art) if you’re interested. If your legs get tired, you can even take a ride in a pedicab or a horse-drawn carriage. There are several events that take place in Central Park throughout the year, so be sure to check the calendar before your visit to see what’s going on.

A New York Deli

Mmmm… pastrami sandwich.

Once you’ve finally worked up an appetite, it’s time for lunch. There are delis on just about every street in Manhattan, where you can go for a typical New York lunch. A great choice near Central Park is Pastrami Queen. Order up a massive pastrami sandwich with fries, and save room for dessert if you can. If you need a pick-me-up, you’re never far away from a coffee shop in New York.

Happy Hour and a Broadway Show

The Book of Mormon is a great Broadway show.

Next up, head to Broadway to try and get tickets for one of the many shows such as The Lion King or Chicago. While lots of shows sell out well in advance, it’s possible to get standing room tickets or even front row seats on the day of the show. You just might have to stand in line for a while for a chance to get them. Once you’ve got your tickets, find a local bar to enjoy Happy Hour. Grab a cocktail or a cold draft beer and then head into the show.

Top of the Rock

A great view from the Top of the Rock.

For a great view of the city, head to the Top of the Rock at 30 Rockefeller Plaza. Also known simply as “30 Rock,” this skyscraper is the home of NBC Studios, which produces such famous TV shows as The Today Show and Saturday Night Live. Buy a ticket and take the interesting elevator ride up to the top, where you’re treated to panoramic views of the Manhattan skyline.

Times Square

Center of the Universe

One of the most famous places in New York City is Times Square. It’s sometimes referred to as the “Center of the Universe,” and it’s a major tourist destination and commercial center. On New Year’s Eve, over one million people come to Times Square to watch the ball drop and ring in the New Year. Here you’ll see several street performers and people dressed up in interesting costumes. Get your camera ready, because it’s a great place to take photos!

See what Times Square looks like on NYE in this video.

Dirty Water Dog

So New York by owlpacino from flickr.com is licensed under CC BY-ND 2.0.

You’ve had bagels and a pastrami sandwich today, so you might as well make it a trifecta and have another New York classic – a dirty water dog. It’s just a silly nickname, so don’t worry. There are vendors selling hot dogs all around Times Square, so go ahead and grab one and cover it in ketchup, mustard, and relish.

After a very busy day in New York, it’s time to get some rest and prepare for another big day in the Big Apple. On day two, we’ll take in some of the city’s amazing architecture, see the Statue of Liberty, dig in to some New York pizza, and so much more.