The Perfect New York City Weekend Guide
I used to be a professional NYC tour guide. I like to say that I “lost my license” because it sounds like I malpracticed historical facts. But in fact I misplaced it… then it expired. But I still love dragging loved ones around NYC. SO when my parents came to visit for the first time last October I wanted to give them the perfect tour aka, the perfect New York City Weekend guide.
This 3 day tour of Midtown and lower Manhattan is perfect because 1. It’s not overwhelming, and 2. it’s totally DIY. Don’t kill yourself trying to see everything in New York! You won’t make it and you’ll hate your boyfriend by the time you guys get home. Follow my guide. It alternates between site-seeing and food-eating / alcohol drinking. And listen to our podcast Lady Journey for the full scoop on my parents visit to NYC!
For starters, plan your trip to NY during the only good travel months. June or October. Let’s face it: this city is a nightmare. It’s winter 6 months a year. The summer is scorching. And the spring is really more of a wet season. June and October are your best bets for a temperate, enjoyable weekend!
Where to stay? If you’re desperate to stay in Times Square because you saw it on MTV or whatever, go for it. I’ll say it: it’s gross and crowded. Don’t. I put my parents up in the neighborhood of Gramercy which is quiet, convenient and gives “I visit the city often!” Try Freehand. This hotel is cute, reasonable and my parents said it made them feel like millennials, which is questionably a plus.
Use this tour guide by clicking the links below. Each location is linked to google maps. Follow your phone!
Day 1 – 4pm
Washington Mews – It’s former horse stables converted into cool apartments and NYC faculty offices. Walk down the block and feel transported to an old European town! Highly instagramable.
Washington Square Park – The stunning view of the arches will make you total forget the news stories you heard about people getting stabbed at night there last summer! But seriously it’s very safe (in the day).
Mamoun’s – Head south on Macdougal and stroll through the heart of Greenwich Village. Stop at Mamoun’s a village staple, and get either a fresh baklava, OR a side of babaganoush.
Bleeker Street – Head East on Bleeker. This old street is lined with pubs. Find a happy hour!
The Original Vincents – Walk through Soho to Vincents. This is BEST Italian food in Nyc and some of the oldest. It was open in 1902! You can’t loose with pene alla vodka, chicken parm, or rigatoni bolognese!
Ferrara – Walk back up through Little Italy and get dessert. These cannolis are honestly now pretty expensive because of the pandemic, so skip it unless you refuse to apologize for your cannoli obsession like me.
Day 2 – 11 am
Sunburst Cafe – This cheap brunch spot is fantastic. Get there before 11:30 to get a free coffee! I get bacon and eggs, and it’s $9!
East River Ferry – Walk East to get a great view of the river. Download the ferry app on your phone. Hop aboard and ride under 3 old bridges: The Williamsburg, Manhattan and Brooklyn! Tour companies will charge you $40 for this same ride and you’ll also have to listen to a crotchety old tour guide talk about his failed acting career. Take the ferry ONE STOP to Pier 11.
Fraunces Tavern – Time for brunch cocktails at this historic pub. George Washington and whoever else planned the Revolutionary War here in secret! Pay homage to our freedom with a mimosa, the way God intended.
9/11 Memorial – If you’re here with your dad, obviously visit the 9/11 memorial. If you’re on a romantic getaway or doing a girls trip, skip it!
Nom Wah Tea Parlor – The oldest Chinese food in NYC and IMHO the all time best. This dim sum spot is both delicious and filling. This was my parents’ favorite!
Day 3 – 3pm
Moma – Get your art on so you can tell your friends back home you did something other than eat and get hammered! I love the Moma because it’s simply do-able. Couple hours, couple paintings and you’re good!
Le Grande Boucherie – Walk through midtown and treat yourself to this exquisite French spot, in an utterly unique surrounding. Tiktok score 10/10.
Theater District – Continue west until you hit the theater district. You’re in NYC you MUST see a show. I took my parents to Wicked, not bad!! If you’re not sure what to see, get the Todaytix app and get a last minute deal.
Junior’s – After show drinks dessert at this classic NYC diner. It’s a little touristy. But, when in Times Square… revel in the basic-ness!
