There’s something about New York City that makes you want to keep coming back. Maybe it’s the towering skyscrapers, the bustling streets, the food, or the fact that there’s always something happening around every corner. Whatever it is, the Big Apple has something for everyone.
And while you could spend weeks exploring everything this concrete jungle has to offer, you’d be surprised by just how much you can experience in a single weekend.
From taking in the Manhattan skyline on a sightseeing cruise to catching a Yankees game in the Bronx, exploring world-famous museums, and enjoying a night on Broadway, plenty was packed into this 72-hour getaway.
With the help of New York City Tourism + Conventions, Air Canada, and Walker Tribeca, I got to experience the city from a different perspective. Here are some things worth adding to your New York City itinerary.
Cue Alicia Keys’ “New York”.
Make Walker Tribeca your home away from home
First things first, you’ll need somewhere to stay, and if you’re looking to experience a different side of Manhattan, consider setting up camp in Tribeca.
And let me say, The Walker Tribeca is a fabulous and convenient option. This boutique hotel is located in one of the city’s most recognizable downtown neighbourhoods. Situated at 77 Walker St., the hotel offers a convenient home base for exploring Lower Manhattan and beyond.
But there’s more to this hotel than just a place to rest your head after a long day of sightseeing. There’s a rooftop bar that offers unparalleled city views and an intimate underground speakeasy; there are plenty of reasons to stick around once you’ve checked in.
And if you’re anything like me, having somewhere to grab a coffee before heading out for the day is always a plus. Vanilla Iced Latte to go, please!
Where: 77 Walker St., New York
Take in the Manhattan skyline on a sightseeing cruise
Now, let’s be real, what is a trip to New York City without seeing the Statue of Liberty? Though there are a number of ways to admire one of the city’s most famous landmarks, I recommend experiencing it from the water.
I made my way to Chelsea Piers, where I boarded a Classic Harbor Line sightseeing cruise for a scenic journey along the Hudson River and into New York Harbor.
The 90-minute experience offers views of the Manhattan skyline, Ellis Island, and Lady Liberty herself, all while aboard a classic-style yacht.
Guests can take in the sights from the outdoor deck or settle into the enclosed observation cabin. I enjoyed both.
It’s a great way to admire New York from a different perspective, especially if you want to get some incredible photos of the skyline.
And of course, I scored some stunning shots, too.
Where: Pier 62, Chelsea Piers, New York
Spend an afternoon discovering Harlem’s art and food scene
If you’re looking to venture beyond Manhattan’s typical tourist attractions, make your way uptown to Harlem.
One of our stops was the Studio Museum in Harlem, located along West 125th St.
Dedicated to artists of African descent, the museum offers visitors an opportunity to explore art, culture, and creative expression in a neighbourhood with a rich cultural history.
After spending some time exploring the museum, you can continue your Harlem experience with a meal at Sylvia’s Restaurant.
Located on Malcolm X Boulevard, Sylvia’s has been serving up soul food since 1962 and has become a beloved institution in the neighbourhood.
Known for dishes like fried chicken and collard greens, it’s a spot worth checking out if you want a taste of Harlem’s culinary history and some true soul food — filling your hunger and cravings.
We ended our Harlem visit with dinner here before heading to the Bronx for another kind of New York experience.
Where: Studio Museum in Harlem, 144 W. 125th St., and Sylvia’s Restaurant, 328 Malcolm X Blvd., New York
Catch a Yankees game in the Bronx
Whether you’re a baseball fan or just looking for an exciting way to spend an evening, catching a game at Yankee Stadium is one experience worth considering.
We made our way to the Bronx to watch the New York Yankees take on the St. Louis Cardinals.
Though I’m a Toronto Blue Jays fan through and through, there’s something magical about seeing the New York Yankees at Yankee Stadium. It was a complete “wow” experience.
Between the game itself, the atmosphere in the stands, and the chance to visit one of baseball’s most recognizable venues, it’s an experience that can appeal to even the most casual sports fans like myself.
Where: 1 E. 161st St., Bronx, New York
Get your art fix at the Museum of Modern Art
You can’t visit New York City without considering a stop at the Museum of Modern Art, better known as MoMA.
Located right in Midtown Manhattan, this world-famous museum is home to an extensive collection of modern and contemporary art.
From paintings and sculptures to photography, film, and design, there’s plenty to discover as you make your way through the galleries. I made sure to check out a few of Van Gogh’s paintings, including “Starry Night”. Though completely crowded, I managed to admire the artwork just for a moment. Such a surreal experience!
And whether you’re a serious art enthusiast or someone who just enjoys wandering through museums, it’s an easy addition to your weekend itinerary.
Definitely set aside a couple of hours to explore, especially if there’s a particular exhibition you’d like to see.
Where: 11 W. 53rd St., New York
Enjoy dinner with a view before catching a Broadway show
Now, here’s one way to make your New York City getaway feel extra special.
Can you say you were even in New York if you didn’t catch a Broadway show? It’s practically a must when visiting the Big Apple, but why not make an entire evening out of it?
Before heading to the theatre, I stopped for dinner at The View Restaurant, Bar, & Lounge, located inside the New York Marriott Marquis in Times Square.
The revolving restaurant offers sweeping views of New York’s skyline as you dine, making it a memorable spot for a pre-show meal.
Time for Broadway
After dinner, I made my way to the Lena Horne Theatre to catch SIX on Broadway.
The musical puts a modern spin on the stories of Henry VIII’s six wives, transforming them into pop-star-inspired queens who take centre stage to share their stories.
Between its catchy music, energetic performances, and contemporary take on history, it’s a fun addition to a night out in the Theater District.
Where: The View, New York Marriott Marquis, Times Square, and Lena Horne Theatre, 256 W. 47th St., New York
Make a pit stop at The Museum of Broadway
The Museum of Broadway is an interactive and experiential museum that celebrates Broadway’s rich history. And if you’re a newfound fan like me, you’ll want to give some time out of your day to explore the space.
Thoughtfully curated, bright, and engaging, the museum is a spot where you can easily get lost as you travel through time, learning about the history of Broadway.
From costumes to puppets, set displays, and scripts, there’s lots to discover.
Where: 145 W 45th St, New York
See New York City from the top of the Empire State Building
Few landmarks are as synonymous with New York City as the Empire State Building.
Just like me, you’ve probably seen the iconic skyscraper countless times in movies and television, but there’s something special about experiencing it in person.
Its observation decks provide sweeping views of the surrounding skyscrapers and city streets, giving you a chance to appreciate just how expansive New York really is. You can basically see every borough on a clear, sunny day.
If there’s one thing to keep in mind, it’s that this is an incredibly popular attraction, so booking tickets ahead of time is worth considering.
Where: 20 W. 34th St., New York
End your night at a hidden speakeasy in Tribeca
Looking for somewhere to unwind after a busy day of sightseeing? You don’t have to venture far if you’re staying at Walker Tribeca. The city was hit with a tremendous thunderstorm, which in turn kept me indoors. Luckily for me, there was an intimate speakeasy-style cocktail bar tucked beneath the hotel.
Saint Tuesday offers a different kind of nightlife experience, with live music and cocktails in a cozy underground setting.
It’s a great alternative to the bustling bars and clubs found elsewhere in Manhattan.
Where: 77 Walker St., New York
Whether you’re visiting for the first time or returning for another adventure, there’s no shortage of ways to fill a weekend in New York City.
And if my trip proved anything, it’s that you don’t need an entire week to experience some of the city’s most memorable attractions.
From cultural landmarks and iconic views to Broadway performances and hidden nightlife gems, 72 hours can go a long way in the city that never sleeps. And I made sure to make the most of it — rain or shine.
The author was hosted by New York City Tourism + Conventions, in partnership with Air Canada and Walker Tribeca.
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Karen Doradea
Managing Editor, Toronto – Karen is a multimedia journalist based in Toronto. With a strong knowledge of reporting and editing through all forms of media, she has a true passion for storytelling. She carries several years of journalistic experience and has covered the Toronto scene from local stories to national news. When Karen isn’t publishing fire content, you can find her binge-watching sitcoms on Crave, at a must-try restaurant, or scrolling endlessly on TikTok looking for the next best thing – News never sleeps.
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