United States

Empire State Building, Times Square and the Museum of Modern Art

Your second day is also filled with sightseeing! It's time to explore some of New York's most iconic spots like the Empire State Building, Times Square and the Museum of Modern Art. And what better way to end your day than with delicious cocktails on one of New York's most beautiful rooftops?

Empire State Building, Times Square and the Museum of Modern Art
4 days in New York City for first timers
Day 2 - 3
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West 34th Street 20, New York, United States

Start your day with iconic views at the Empire State Building

The Empire State Building is one of New York’s most famous tourist attractions. It has been featured in countless movies and series, and with good reason! Here you can find the city’s highest open-air observation deck with thrilling panoramic views of New York City. The way up is an interesting one as well. You get to learn a lot more about the history of the building and get a glimpse at what movies the Empire State Building has featured in. Such a great experience!

Your first walk of the day is a lovely stroll North on 5th Avenue. Shopaholics will have to show a little restraint, as we might come back here later during this trip.

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East 42nd Street 89, New York, United States

Admire the Grand Central Terminal

Next up: Grand Central Terminal. It is one of the busiest train stations in the world and a famous landmark. The intricate details and grandeur of the Beaux-Arts style transport you to another time, while the constant movement and activity make it clear that you're at the heart of one of the busiest cities in the world. Fun fact: the main lobby was used in Gossip Girl, remember the return of Serena Van der Woodsen to New York? ;-)

Once you step out of the Grand Central Terminal, the shortest way to your next destination is to head west on 43rd Street. However, we recommend taking 42nd street, as this route takes you past iconic landmarks like Bryant Park and the New York Public Library, an imposing Beaux-Arts building with its famous stone lions guarding the entrance.

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New York, United States

Stroll through Times Square

Nothing screams New York more than Times Square. It is one of the world’s most popular tourist attractions and known by literally everyone. The countless neon billboards and huge screens are a must-see, especially if you’re a first-timer. It can be a bit overwhelming, but is so impressive and exciting that you can’t stop looking at it. And, there’s something for everyone because every major brand has their flagship store here. M&M’s world? You got it. H&M? Check. Target? You betcha!

To get to your next destination from Times Square, head north on 7th Avenue for about 8 blocks (10 minutes) until you reach West 53rd Street. Along the way, you'll pass through the bustling hub of Midtown Manhattan with towering skyscrapers, street vendors, and the iconic Rockefeller Center featuring world-renowned attractions. Don’t take a detour yet, we might visit it at a later point :-)

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West 53rd Street 11, New York, United States

Visit the MoMa

The Museum of Modern Art is is a must-see for art lovers who happen to find themselves in New York City. MoMA’s collection offers an overview of modern and contemporary art, which includes Matisse, Dalí, Monet, Magritte and Warhol, as well as The Starry Night of Van Gogh! There are several floors so make sure to plan enough time to admire everything!

To continue your exploration of NYC, leave MoMa by heading west for about two blocks on 53rd Street until you reach Broadway. Then, head north on Broadway for roughly 10 blocks until you reach West 63rd Street. Along the way, you'll pass by Lincoln Center, a world-renowned performing arts center that hosts some of the biggest names in music, dance, and theater. We hope you’re hungry, thirsty, and in for some amazing views…

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West 63rd Street 44, New York, United States

End your day with delicious cocktails at the Empire Rooftop

End your second day at the Empire Rooftop, an incredible rooftop with outstanding views and amazing cocktails. They serve delicious cocktails and appetizers here and the interior is truly stunning! Another fun fact for the Gossip Girl fans among us: the Empire Hotel was the home base of Chuck Bass ;-).