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14 Ideal Destinations For A 3-Day Weekend From The US

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Discover Even More Incredible Destinations For a 3-Day Weekend Vacation From America

• Experience the natural wonders of Iceland on a three-day trip or discover the stunning Pitons of Saint Lucia over one long weekend.
• Consider less-popular European countries like Belgium or smaller Caribbean islands like Grenada for a 3-day getaway from the US.
• Visit diverse destinations like Mexico, Puerto Rico, or Costa Rica for sandy beaches, unique attractions, and delicious food.

For those who reside in the United States of America and have a long three-day weekend ahead of them, traveling is likely on the radar. While three days might seem too short, there are some nations that are ideal for a weekend with an extra-day getaway. For example, it's possible to see the essentials of Mykonos in a few days or enjoy a glimpse of the natural wonders in Iceland on a three-day itinerary .

With the world feeling more accessible each day, who else needs 3-day vacation ideas? Obvious choices like the Caribbean come to mind, but less obvious choices like smaller European nations shouldn't be overlooked. Sometimes, staying domestic even does the trick. Here are some top picks for a 3-day weekend getaway for those who live in the USA.

UPDATE: 2024/01/25 09:59 EST BY LAURALYN BROWN

An entire country in only 3 days? Challenge accepted! This list has been expanded with 2 more stunning places to vacation for a 3-day weekend. This list is also complete with the best cities to visit, hotels to stay in, and activities to enjoy.

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See the majority of the hot spots in Ireland over one weekend!

3 days of castles, pints of Guinness, and the most stunning seaside cliffs in the world? Yes, please! 3 days in Ireland is plenty of time to wander around this beautiful island and experience the friendly culture, rich food, and breathtaking scenery.

It's best to start an Irish adventure in Dublin, the capital city, and hit major stops like Dublin Castle , the Temple Bar District, and the Guinness Storehouse. From there, visitors can easily make day trips out to the Cliffs of Moher, Galway, Cork, or Dingle. First-time visitors should be sure to grab one of the many unique souvenirs in Dublin before leaving!

• Suggested Locations: Dublin, Cork, Galway, Killarney
• Where To Stay: Hotel St. George Dublin
• Best Things To Do: Trinity College, Cliffs of Moher, Blarney Castle, Guinness Storehouse

Thanks to its small size, travelers can easily visit major Belgian cities in three days

Anyone looking for 3-day vacation ideas from the USA will definitely find fun in Belgium. A weekend spent in Belgium is filled with plenty of chocolate, beer, and the most incredible feats of architecture in the world!

Like Ireland, travelers should start their whirlwind weekend in the capital city of Brussels. The city can easily be experienced in one day as most of the major attractions are close to each other. From there, visitors can make a quick drive to Bruges, Ghent, Antwerp, or Waterloo, which is only 30 minutes away.

Luckily, Belgium is a small country which makes it easier to travel to major cities and hidden gem towns in only 3 days.

• Suggested Locations: Brussels, Ghent, Bruges, Liège
• Where To Stay: Hygge Hotel Brussels
• Things To Do: Grand Place, Antwerp Central Train Station, Waterloo Battlefield , Royal Gallery of Saint Hubert

Visitors will have the best 3-day vacation surrounded by sandy beaches, unique attractions, and street tacos

Spending three days in Mexico is absolutely worth it, offering a taste of the country's diverse attractions. Begin with the beautiful beaches of Cancún, Playa del Carmen, or Puerto Vallarta, where travelers can soak up the sun, snorkel in crystal-clear waters, or simply relax.

For culture and history, explore the charming towns of Tulum or Mérida, known for their ancient ruins and vibrant markets. Savor authentic Mexican cuisine, from street tacos to fine dining. While three days won't cover all of Mexico's wonders, it's enough to experience its rich culture, stunning landscapes, and warm hospitality.

• Suggested Locations: Ciudad de México, Tulum, Cancun, Merida, Oaxaca
• Where To Stay: Villa Del Palmar Beach Resort & Spa
• Things To Do: Tulum , Chichén Itzá , The Arch of Cabo San Lucas, Two Eyes Cenote

11 Puerto Rico

Puerto rico is the perfect place for beaches, historic sites, and mouthwatering food.

Looking for 3-day weekend trips from the US without actually leaving the US (technically)? Puerto Rico is an ideal destination for travelers who are American citizens, as it's still part of the United States as an unincorporated territory, making it very convenient to visit for those seeking weekend vacation ideas from America.

Indeed, there are many things to do in the oldest European settlement in America , but three days offer this Caribbean gem's compact yet enriching taste. Visitors can start in San Juan, where historic Old San Juan's colorful streets and historic forts will transport tourists back in time.

Then, visitors can venture to the lush El Yunque National Forest, a tropical paradise for hiking and waterfall exploration. Tourists can take advantage of stunning beaches like Flamenco Beach on Culebra Island. On top of that, three days is enough to sample Puerto Rico's delectable cuisine, including mofongo and fresh seafood.

• Suggested Locations: San Juan, Ponce, Bayamon, Caguas
• Where To Stay: Rincon Beach Resort
• Things To Do: Cueva Ventana , El Yunque National Forest , eat at La Estación

10 Costa Rica

Spend a weekend vacation in costa rica surrounded by wildlife and nature.

Costa Rica is another one of the easy countries to visit in three days from the US, as it offers a whirlwind adventure through its rich biodiversity and stunning landscapes. While three days won't allow tourists to see it all, they'll experience Costa Rica's natural beauty, abundant wildlife, and a taste of Pura Vida, the country's laid-back way of life. An excellent way to be immersed in the country's nature is by staying in one of Costa Rica's rainforest resorts .

Travelers can start in San José, exploring local markets and visiting the impressive National Theater. Then, head to Arenal to witness the active volcano, soak in hot springs, and hike amidst lush rainforests. Wrap up the trip with a visit to Manuel Antonio National Park, home to white-faced capuchin monkeys and pristine beaches.

• Suggested Location: San Jose, Tamarindo, Puntarenas, Liberia
• Where To Stay: Pacuare Lodge
• Things To Do: Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Preserve , Manuel Antonio Beach, La Paz Waterfall Gardens Nature Park

It may be impossible to see all of Canada in three days, but a city or two is easily doable

Spending three days in Canada offers a glimpse into its diverse culture and natural beauty, and it is easy to plan due to its proximity to the United States. Travelers can consider Toronto, where they can explore the iconic CN Tower, visit vibrant neighborhoods like Kensington Market, and savor international cuisine.

Montreal is another city with much to offer, known for its European charm, historic Old Montreal, and dynamic arts scene. Quebec City also offers memorable days, with its charming cobblestone streets and French-inspired culture.

• Suggested Locations: Toronto, Quebec, Montreal, Vancouver, Banff
• Where To Stay: Fairmont Banff Springs in Banff
• Things To Do: Fairmont Le Château Frontenac, Jasper National Park , Lake Louise

Skip the touristy, crowded Caribbean islands and visit this underrated island instead

For those wanting to get away to a less-visited Caribbean tropical island, Grenada is a prime option for a quick 3-day weekend. Grenada is underrated, but with direct flights from New York, Miami, and Charlotte, it's an easy jaunt down to paradise. For a true cultural celebration, head down anytime between the 17th and 19th of May, 2024, for the annual Chocolate Festival , where the island showcases the chocolates grown locally.

Grenada is more than a Caribbean spicy island , offering a rich cultural connection to its cuisine, from chocolate to spices. With only three days, make sure to include enough time to snorkel or dive near the Grenada Underwater Sculpture Park, as well as explore some of the island's many famous waterfalls.

• Suggested Locations: St. George's, Gouyave, Victoria
• Where To Stay: Mount Cinnamon Resort
• Things To Do: Annandale Waterfall & Forest Park , Grenada Underwater Sculpture Park , Morne Rouge

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The Land of Ice and Fire's natural wonders and Northern Lights are perfect for a 3-day weekend

While this might be tough for a three-day weekend from the West Coast, getting to Iceland from the USA's East Coast is an easy feat. With only a four-hour flight from New York and several airlines offering direct flights to Reykjavík from major US cities, a three-day venture to Iceland is not as unimaginable to pull off as one might think.

Iceland is fairly small, but three days still won't be enough to see all that this stunning island has to offer, like all the natural wonders in Iceland , but it's enough time to get a taste. Those who travel from October to March might even see the northern lights in Iceland .

• Suggested Locations: Reykjavík, Húsafell, Akureyri, Husavik
• Where To Stay: Hotel Ranga
• Things To Do: Blue Lagoon, Thingvellir National Park , Sky Lagoon, Svartifoss Waterfall

Panama is easy to get to from the US and offers delicious food, historic sites, beaches, and the Panama Canal

With Copa Airlines having connections in several US cities , a quick 3-day escape down to Panama is hardly a hurdle. Panama has a lot to offer, but for the best trip possible, situate a stay in Panama City and book day trips from there.

Panama City, particularly the neighborhood of Casco Viejo, is full of history, colorful buildings, delicious food, and, of course, the notorious Panama Canal.

• Suggested Locations: Bocas del Toro, Portobelo, Panama City
• Where To Stay: The Santa Maria, A Luxury Collection Hotel & Golf Resort
• Things To Do: Panama Canal, San Blas Islands, Metropolitan Natural Park

5 The Netherlands

The netherlands is only a 7-hour flight from new york.

Does it seem borderline insane to head all the way to Europe for a three-day getaway from the USA? Perhaps so, but if there is one place to explore in just 72 hours, it's got to be The Netherlands. Fly direct to Amsterdam with KLM Airlines, and explore the flowers and canals of this European favorite.

Luckily, The Netherlands is one of the smallest countries in Europe, so though three days can be a little hectic, primarily due to air travel, it is ample time to explore this eclectic European nation.

• Suggested Locations: Rotterdam, Amsterdam, The Hague, Lisse, Giethoorn
• Where To Stay: InterContinental Amstel Amsterdam
• Things To Do: Van Gogh Museum , Unesco Werelderfgoed Kinderdijk , Keukenhof

4 Antigua & Barbuda

Leave reality for a weekend and enjoy the energetic atmosphere of antigua and barbuda.

For travelers where heading down to the Caribbean is the only admirable option, Antigua and Barbuda is one of the best nations to head to. Why? Well, they are notorious for having 365 beaches, meaning one beach a day per year!

Antigua and Barbuda is increasing in popularity but is still nowhere near the ranks of popular Caribbean destinations for Americans, such as the Dominican Republic, The Bahamas, or Jamaica. With so many unique things to do in Antigua and Barbuda , travelers can head down for a peaceful, pristine, and paradisiacal getaway, leaving all of their worries back in the USA while sipping rum, the national drink of the country.

• Suggested Locations: English Harbour, Jolly Harbour, Liberta
• Where To Stay: COCOS Hotel
• Things To Do: Shirley Heights Lookout, Dickenson Bay Beach, Stingray City Antigua

3 Guatemala

3 days is more than enough time to experience the beauty of lake atitlán.

Guatemala was one of the destinations that went viral in 2022 after visitor numbers jumped tenfold. So, for those who haven't caught onto this popular destination yet, what's the hold-up? Guatemala is a tiny nation in Latin America, and though it can easily be explored in two weeks or more, three days to the magical Lake Atitlán is the epitome of utopia.

Stay at the heavenly Casa Palopó , situated right on Lake Atitlán, and kick it back for a few days in this popular Central American nation.

• Suggested Locations: Guatemala City, Livingston, Chichicastenango, Quetzaltenango
• Where To Stay: Casa Palopó
• Things To Do: Tikal National Park , Santa Catalina Arch, Hill of the Cross, Lake Atitlan

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2 Saint Lucia

Discover the pitons, soufriere's drive-in volcano, and serene spas in just three days.

Fewer places in the Caribbean are as aspirational as Saint Lucia, which is home to many stunning destinations . Notoriously, one of the most beautiful islands in the Caribbean, Saint Lucia is known for The Pitons or volcanic plugs. The Pitons of Saint Lucia are a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and anyone who travels here will quickly understand why they have such notoriety (they're the standout feature of the country, as are its breathtaking beaches).

Moreover, Saint Lucia makes for an easy three-day getaway from the USA. Enjoy snorkeling, spa treatments at the many resorts on the island, paddleboarding, and exploring Soufriere’s drive-in volcano in just three short days. Three days might be enough to explore Saint Lucia, but don't be surprised when it still somehow feels impossible to leave due to how relaxing and divine this island nation is.

• Suggested Locations: Marigot Bay, Vieux Fort, Castries
• Where To Stay: Windjammer Landing Villa Beach Resort
• Things To Do: Soufrière Drive-In Volcano, Tet Paul Nature Trail , Diamond Falls Botanical Gardens & Mineral Baths

1 Trinidad & Tobago

Only a 3-hour flight from miami, these islands offer laid-back charm and bustling cities combined.

Finally, one of the most overlooked Caribbean islands is a land of delicious food, a vibrant culture, one of the best carnivals in the entire region, and two islands waiting to be explored. Trinidad and Tobago is easy to jaunt to from mainland USA thanks to Caribbean Airlines and is a perfect destination to explore in just three short days.

Tobago is where folks should head for a laid-back, typical "island" vibe, and Trinidad deserves to be explored by those who want the hustle and bustle of a busy city. Why not make time for both Trinidad and Tobago Islands , as there is a lot to discover? Just make sure to eat as much as possible when visiting since this fun nation is known to have some of the best cuisines in the Caribbean.

• Suggested Locations: Scarborough, Pigeon Point, Port of Spain
• Where To Stay: Hyatt Regency Trinidad
• Things To Do: Fort King George , Argyle Falls, Pigeon Point Beach, Store Bay

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The 10 Best 3-Day Weekend Trips in the U.S.

Travel experts say these spots have just the right amount to do, see, and explore..

When a three-day weekend is in sight, many of us are content with some time away from work and an extra day to relax. But these weekends also offer great opportunities to travel and discover new towns and cities without having to pull the kids out of school or request a day off. You probably can't fit a trip to Europe in a three-day stint, but there's likely a cool spot within driving distance from your home—or one that's accessible via a quick flight. Travel experts have recommendations for the best places to explore over long weekends, as there's just enough to see and do without getting bored or feeling like you missed out on anything. Read on to find out which 10 trips they say you should schedule for a three-day weekend.

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1 | Nashville, Tennessee

If you've always wanted to explore Music City , you might want to do so over a three-day weekend. You'll hear live music playing while walking up and down Broadway—the main drag in Nashville—and indulge in some good Southern cooking.

"Nearly 200 restaurants have opened throughout the city in the past two years,"  Rachel Heatherly , publicist for the Nashville Convention & Visitors Corp , says. "From chef-driven dining to classic Nashville cuisine like hot chicken, BBQ, and meat-and-three, Music City is a booming foodie destination that features trailblazing distilleries and breweries too."

You can also check out the city's numerous music museums over the course of three days, including the National Museum of African American Music, the Country Music Hall of Fame & Museum, The Johnny Cash Museum, and The Patsy Cline Museum.

"And of course, it wouldn’t be Music City without the over 180 live performance venues where visitors can experience music 365 days a year—of all genres," Heatherly says.

2 | Boise, Idaho

The capital of Idaho may not be the first place that comes to mind for a long weekend, but Megan Jones , travel writer and founder of Traveller's Elixir, explains that there are plenty of things to do here.

"Boise is a bustling city located right in the heart of Treasure Valley in Idaho," she tells  Best Life . "It feels wild and rugged with hundreds of hiking trails , mountains, and rivers to explore. In fact, you'll have the snow-capped Rocky Mountains as your backdrop the whole time!"

Another major draw is the ability to visit this city throughout the year. "There’s really no bad time to visit Boise, as they get over 200 days of sunshine every year," Jones says. "But fall/winter is definitely my favorite as Boise turns into a winter paradise."

If you're not located within driving distance, you can easily book a flight to Boise, Jones says, which is typically short and affordable, especially if you're already located on the West Coast.

"Boise is ideal for a three-day trip as there's more than enough to keep you busy," Jones explains. "This is the perfect amount of time to really relax and recharge."

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3 | Key West, Florida

Looking for a quick tropical getaway? Key West is a must-see,  Jim Campbell , CEO and founder of Honeymoon Goals , tells  Best Life .

"If you want a weekend escape in the U.S. but don't want to feel like you're still in the U.S., then I really recommend going to Key West in the Florida Keys," he says. "It's as close to the Caribbean as you can be without actually being in the Caribbean—and comes with all the luxuries."

The scenic drive to the Keys—which are the southernmost tropical islands in Florida—is breathtaking, but you can also sit back and relax on a flight or a short ferry ride from the mainland if you prefer. When you get to Key West, you'll be able to set up your beach chair right away, as temperatures hover in the 70s and 80s all year long.

You can then check out some "insane snorkeling spots" or try your hand at water sports, per Campbell's recommendations. When you get hungry, indulge in everything Key West has to offer, including fine dining and laidback local hubs.

4 | Aspen, Colorado

Get ready for a three-day adventure out West in Aspen, Colorado. According to Anthony Radchenko , travel expert and co-founder at Air Advisor, Aspen is a must-see spot, even if it's only for a quick getaway.

"Food, shopping, and adventure are the three things you look for in an ideal vacation, and Aspen offers all that," Radchenko says. "If you're a thrill seeker, you'd have the best weekend in Aspen, but rest assured, it's also an excellent location to unwind."

Radchenko suggests checking out a resort if you're looking to get some much-needed R&R, but if you want to make the most of your quick trip, be sure to check out the food scene and give skiing a go.

"If you're up there in the mountains, you just can't go without skiing or snowboarding," Radchenko says. "It's a once-in-a-lifetime experience."

If winter sports aren't your jam, you'll be happy to learn that Aspen is just as enchanting in the spring and summer. You'll find it's less crowded, also offering up opportunities to bike, hike, or even fly fish.

With so much to do, it's tempting to book an extended stay in Aspen, but it can get quite pricey. A three-day stay allows you to see the sights without breaking the bank.

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5 | Joshua Tree, California

Want to spend your long weekend camped out under the stars? Check out Joshua Tree, California—home to Joshua Tree National Park. You'll feel lost in nature at this iconic spot, which is best visited during the fall and winter, Leslie Gilmour , travel blogger and CEO of Outdoor Scott, explains.

According to Gilmour, you'll be surrounded by "iconic flora, geological phenomena, breathtaking vistas, rare wildlife, and rewarding hikes" at Joshua Tree, and you'll feel refreshed after spending three days in nature.

"There is something for every level of hiker, and it's all beautiful," he says. "At over 5,000 feet, Keys View is one of the park's higher elevations and provides a panoramic view of the Coachella Valley. The Juniper Flats area has a great Joshua tree forest and a loop trail on the way to Keys View."

Sunsets are particularly remarkable at Keys View, and when the sun disappears, stargazing is a must . "Stargazers will enjoy the park as well (due to good seeing conditions at night)," Gilmour explains. "There are also some parking lots with signs that say 'designated stargazing area.'"

6 | Burlington, Vermont

Nestled in the Northwestern portion of Vermont is the quaint town of Burlington, near Lake Champlain. If you don't have plans for upcoming three-day weekends this autumn, Lanie van der Horst , the travel blogger behind Make More Adventures, suggests putting Burlington at the top of your list.

During the winter, you'll find that Burlington is an ideal destination for skiers and snowboarders, as well as anyone looking to snuggle up in a snowy wonderland. But if you're planning in advance, van der Horst says autumn in Burlington is unbeatable.

"[Burlington] is perfect for a fall getaway , as the scenery is gorgeous and there is plenty to do to occupy a long weekend," she says. "Apple picking is available during the fall months and apple cider donuts are usually sold wherever there is apple picking."

The local markets are great to explore during the summer and early fall, and you can treat yourself to something sweet at Lake Champlain Chocolates all year round.

Running out of things to do in Burlington is tricky, but you can also venture to nearby Waterbury to take a tour of the Ben & Jerry's Factory or to the Vermont Teddy Bear Company in Shelburne, van der Horst says.

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7 | Ojai, California

Another Californian option for a three-day weekend is Ojai, Heather King , the travel blogger behind Go Gluten Freely, tells  Best Life .

"Just a two-hour drive north of L.A. and a world away, Ojai is the perfect three-day weekend getaway, and the Ojai Valley Inn is just the place to stay," she says. "There is no shortage of activities to fill your long weekend, but a few must-dos are the beekeeping and honey tasting experience, a pedal and picnic bike ride, and a relaxing visit to the Artist’s Cottage & Apothecary."

The resort hotel has a variety of amenities and restaurants on the property, and King notes that the staff is helpful in accommodating those with allergies or other dietary restrictions. If you want to explore the rest of the city, you'll find plenty to do to fill your weekend, including the Ojai area of the beautiful Los Padres National Forest .

"Ojai has beautiful hiking trails, charming shops, and olive oil tasting at the Ojai Olive Farm," King explains. "You’ll feel like you are on a Mediterranean holiday without leaving the U.S. "

According to King, fall, winter, and spring are the best times to visit, as the temperatures are in that sweet spot—ranging from the mid-60s to mid-70s.

8 | Chicago, Illinois

If you've never visited Chicago, book your tickets for an upcoming three-day weekend—especially if you're a sports fan .

"It is relatively affordable to visit, with a large airport near the city and grade-A public transportation," Larry Snider , VP of operations of Casago Vacation Rentals , explains. "You can spend your weekend, regardless of the season, attending a major sports game with the Bulls, Bears, White Sox, or Cubs organizations."

The views of Lake Michigan are stunning, and there's plenty to do depending on the season. In the summer, you can enjoy 26 miles of lakefront beaches, and while the winter might be a bit too cold for some, you can't deny the beauty of the expansive frozen lake.

"The food in Chicago is well worth the visit, with nearly every authentic cuisine within reach," Snider says. "Downtown's shopping hub is a great way to spend your time and money, and visiting the Bean is a good place for a memorable picture experience!"

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9 | Sedona, Arizona

A long weekend will be well spent in Sedona during any season—especially if you're looking for a spiritual refresh, Manou Maudgal , founder of the travel blog GPX Adventures, tells  Best Life .

"Nestled in the middle of striking red sandstone formations, Sedona’s spectacular landscape has attracted numerous outdoor enthusiasts, spiritual (seekers), artists, and healers for years," he says, adding that the vortexes are particularly enticing for visitors. These spots are located in the red rocks and are thought to be " especially alive with energy ," according to the official website for Sedona.

Maudgal says that Sedona is a "perfect combination of nature, spirituality, and culinary," as you can either embark on an outdoor adventure or explore the cozy downtown area.

"It’s a unique place to enjoy outdoor activities, with miles of hiking and mountain biking trails," he adds. "The city itself is bustling with art galleries and gourmet restaurants."

Consider planning your visit this spring, Maudgal says, as the ideal time to experience Sedona is between May and October. If you book a three-day stay in the summer, you might be greeted by more traffic and crowds, he adds.

10 | Las Vegas, Nevada

Another destination you can see in just three days is Sin City itself. You might first think of slot machines and roulette when someone mentions Vegas, but the city offers much more than meets the eye.

"There's no shortage of things to do in Las Vegas , and three days is the perfect time to explore it in,"  Taylor Beal , owner and author of the travel blog Traverse With Taylor , says. "Plus, it's a great location for some warmth during the winter months." You can also easily visit in the spring, fall, or winter and enjoy the cooler (but still warm) temperatures.

"In three days, you must explore the hotels and their quirky specialties, such as the ever-popular canals and gondolas in the [Venetian]," Beal explains. "Visitors should catch a show, such as Cirque du Soleil, stroll around the Miracle Mile Shops, and bar or club hop."

Beal adds, "It goes without saying that you should play a few casino games while you're in town, too. If none of that strikes your fancy, grab a brew at Hofbrauhaus, shop at the Outlets, see sharks at the Shark Reef at Mandalay Bay, or visit the Hoover Dam for some history!"

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7 North American Cities Perfect for a 3-Day Weekend

Shannon McMahon

Editor Shannon McMahon is always planning her next trip and often writing in her travel journal. Follow her on Twitter @shanmcmahon_ and on Instagram @shanmcmahon .

Shannon joined SmarterTravel in 2015. A former news reporter, she's lived in the south of Spain, spotted elephants in Sri Lanka, gone spelunking in the Caribbean, hiked Jordan's Petra Basin, interviewed Sao Paulo's Michelin-Star chefs, and explored China via bullet train. Travel trends, news oddities, and her visits to up-and-coming destinations are some of her favorite things to write about.

Her stories have also appeared online on USA Today, The Sun, Huffington Post, Business Insider, blog.TripAdvisor.com, Boston.com, and more. Her educational background is in journalism, art history, gender studies, Spanish, and film. She's been quoted as an expert travel source by CNBC, People.com, MarketWatch, The Washington Post, USA Today, and more.

The Handy Item I Always Pack : "Plenty of extra thick hair elastics. They tame my frizzy curls and come in handy in a surprising number of packing and hotel dilemmas."

Ultimate Bucket List Experience : "Climbing (yes, climbing, it's steep!) the Great Wall of China before it's gone."

Travel Motto : "Travel is fatal to prejudice, bigotry, and narrow-mindedness." - Mark Twain

Aisle, Window, or Middle Seat : "Window, of course."

Email Shannon at [email protected] .

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Looking for a city you can savor on the rare three-day weekend, rather than on that’ll have you scrambling to see everything? You can cross these North American spots off your list in just a few days, and come home feeling cultured and invigorated, not tired and overwhelmed.

Best 3-Day Weekend Cities in North America

There’s an eclectic array of three-day weekend options around North America thanks to growing second cities and new flight routes. Here’s where to find them.

Minneapolis, Minnesota

There’s more to see in Minnesota than you might expect, and the larger of its Twin Cities beckons beer, music, and outdoor lovers for a three-day weekend. Often named the most bike-friendly city in America , Minneapolis can be easily canvassed on two wheels to fit in all its green parks, hip breweries, public art (like the famed Spoonbridge and Cherry at Walker Art Center), and swimmable spots like Lake Harriet and Lake Calhoun—this is the City of Lakes, after all. Of course, you’ll need to visit in warmer weather if you want to enjoy all the city’s outdoor adventures. Don’t miss music-famous spots like the First Avenue nightclub and Prince’s home and studios at nearby Paisley Park .

Thanks to the recent expansion of Minnesotan low-cost carrier Sun Country, Minneapolis is newly accessible to parts of the country like Las Vegas, New Orleans, and Santa Barbara, California.

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Savannah, Georgia

Slow down with Savannah’s warm sun and equally warm people on a three-day weekend of tantalizing food, iconic historic sights, and a heavy dose of Southern charm. Exploring colonial parks and estates hidden behind moss-draped tree tunnels will help you walk off the fried food and barbecue.

Stay in a historic inn, take a scenic Savannah River cruise, and be sure to work in a ghost or cemetery tour to stay true to Savannah’s reputation as one of America’s most haunted cities. You can also stroll the Downtown Historic District , where artisan shops and outdoor cafes bring new life to the old South. It’s all well within a relaxing weekend’s reach.

American Airlines added new daily flights to Savannah/Hilton Head International Airport this year from the Miami and Chicago areas, and the airport serves most major U.S. cities.

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Montreal, Canada

You don’t need to fly to Paris to experience incredible French food and feel immersed in the language. Montreal, Canada is a stone’s throw from most of the Northeastern U.S., but delivers a three-day weekend that feels far-off.

Trendy Mile End eateries and the famed Mount Royal hiking trails are perfect year-round for a romantic getaway that might not even require airfare. Nightlife revelers can head to Rue St. Catherine’s bustling bars, festival connoisseurs love Montreal for its near-weekly festival offerings in warmer months, and history buffs can take to Old Montreal for a food or walking tour that feels more like you’re exploring a historic French port than a French-Canadian one.

Book it:  Get prices for Novotel Montreal Center and other area hotels

West Hollywood, California

Introduce yourself to Los Angeles by opting for a high-energy three-day weekend in its trendiest neighborhood, West Hollywood. A trip to WeHo means boisterous nights out on the Sunset Strip, hiking and/or shopping by day, and a hotel pool to relax at in between. A rooftop patio, famous live-music bar, or row of chic independent boutiques is never far away.

Gay Pride and Halloween weekends are favorite times to visit this tiny corner of Hollywood, if you’re looking for a reason to take a vacation day.  

Book it:  Get prices for The London West Hollywood and other area hotels

Portland, Oregon

Oregon’s City of Roses is a gourmand’s dream, and has enough biking paths, trolleys, and cable cars for visitors to cover it almost completely without getting in a car. Stroll Pearl District cafes and shops, hop the Aerial Tram at Oregon Health and Science University or bike to Pittock Mansion for the best views, and hike Forest Park within the city limits for a mix of urban and natural scenery.

Mississippi Avenue eateries and McMenamins’ brew-and-view movie theaters offer a way to slow down and relax, or you can hop a tour to nearby Mount Hood and bike to Multnomah Falls if you’re looking for more adventure. Portland proper and the Columbia River Valley are close enough to fit both into a three-day weekend, and flights to PDX are cheaper than ever thanks to Alaska Air’s recent expansion.

Book it:  Get prices for Kimpton Hotel Monaco Portland and other area hotels

Houston, Texas

Forget Austin’s pricey flights and crowded bars, and try an underrated Texas city that often feels anything but Texan. Houston is a surprisingly diverse and bikeable hub perfect for exploring art and science museums, eating international cuisine in Little Saigon and Little India.

From craft beer to the Space Center, Houston’s possibilities are endless, but accessible enough to do in a weekend. It’s ideal as a family vacation or a treat-yourself couple’s getaway. Plus, you might be surprised how cheap it is to fly to one of Houston’s two international air hubs, no matter where in the U.S. you live.  

Book it:  Get prices for Hotel Derek and other area hotels

Nashville, Tennessee

The small but bustling city of Nashville is just as rock ‘n’ roll as it is country, and packed with enough unique to-dos to please any type of traveler. America’s Music City has its own full-scale replica Parthenon, historic mansions and parks, and museums covering topics ranging from science and art to Johnny Cash. There are enough hot chicken and live-music spots to ensure you couldn’t miss out on either even if you tried, and local breweries and the Jack Daniels Distillery are favorites to wash it all down.

Allegiant expanded to Nashville this year, opening low-cost options to Florida and Virginia. An abundance of Southwest options out of Nashville also makes it an easily affordable destination from most U.S. air hubs.

Book it:  Get prices for Renaissance Nashville Hotel and other area hotels

More from SmarterTravel :

• The 10 Best Cities to Visit in 2019
• Cheap Weekend Getaways from 9 Major U.S. Cities
• 15 Underrated Places in the U.S. You Should Visit Now

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24 Best Weekend Getaways in the USA for 2024

Welcome to JetSetting Fools, here you will find our best travel tips for destinations worldwide. Some of the links on this site are Affiliate Links and if you use them to make a purchase, we may earn a commission. For more information, read our Disclosure Policy .

Craving a vacation, but short on paid time off? No worries: you can get your travel fix on a quick US weekend trip! The United States may be vast, but it is also well-connected – and there is no shortage of short US trip ideas. To help you effortlessly plan your end-of-the-work-week vacation escape, we have rounded up the best weekend getaways in the USA!

Where To Go For a Long Weekend in USA?

We have first-hand experience balancing the tiring work week with easy weekend getaways. Having spent years grinding away on 60-plus-hour work weeks and looking forward to Friday afternoon on Monday morning. To get through the grueling workload, we became pros at planning the best weekend getaways in the US.

Our Friday-to-Sunday 3-day trips took us to destinations across America. From top US cities to lesser-known locales, we discovered many places to go on a mini weekend getaway.

Some of our favorite long US weekend destinations landed us on sandy beaches, atop rugged mountains, in historic towns and amid modern metropolises. As a bonus, the quick US vacation spots we chose were highlighted by regional cuisine, local craft beer or the area’s best wine.

What Makes the Best US Weekend Getaways?

Before we answer your burning question, Where should I go for a weekend in USA? , let’s chat about what makes good weekend trips. Limited to just a 3-day trip, you will want to maximize your experience. We are detailing our criteria for what makes the best long weekend getaways destinations in the US.

How To Get To Fun Getaway Trips

When planning the best long weekend trip in US, you need to consider how you will get to your destination. Will you need to fly? How long is the flight? Are there direct flights? Is it possible to drive? How long will it take?

You don’t want to spend an exorbitant amount of time on planes or in cars. The best long weekend trips in US will be relatively easy to get to from your current location.

How To Get Around on USA Weekend Getaways

An often-overlooked consideration for 3-day trips in USA is how you will get around your destination. Is the area walkable? How close are the attractions? Is there public transport? Is it easy to use? Does the destination have Uber/Lyft? Will you need to rent a car ?

When you plan a quick getaway for the weekend, make sure there are no surprises in the effort and cost involved in getting around. 

What To Do on 3-Day Vacations in USA

Of course, the best weekend vacations in US will offer activities and entertainment that are suitable to your style. What activities does the destination offer? Do you need a ticket or reservation? If so, are there tickets available? We use Viator to find tickets, tours and reviews for the best attractions in the USA.

Furthermore, if you plan to fill your itinerary for fun US weekend trips with outdoor activities, be sure to check the typical weather at your destination before booking your trip.

Affordable Weekend Getaways United States

As you make plans for short vacation trips, you will want to keep your budget in mind.  Some of the top weekend getaways in the US can be pricey – especially when considering airfare , accommodations , city transport, activities and eating out over a short period of time. If you are looking for cheap getaways in the US, be sure to price out your trip before booking anything that is non-refundable.

That said, travel insurance may help cover expenses paid when plans go awry (and, these days, we all know how quickly that can happen!). Check the affordable rates at World Nomads to insure your weekend getaways in United States.

Budget Weekend Getaways in US

If you are worried about the best getaways in the US costing a bundle, we don’t blame you! Travel costs even for the best mini vacations in the US can add up. 

To be honest though, we believe that any destination can be affordable! In fact, we have created a step-by-step guide to help you plan the best cheap weekend getaways in USA – plus, we share our free vacation budget planner. Get it now!  

24 BEST WEEKEND GETAWAYS IN THE USA

Alright, so what are the best weekend getaways in the USA? In our roundup, we feature the best cities for a weekend trip in the United States. The long weekend destinations we feature are perfect for traveling couples, groups of friends and families. At the end of the list, we offer our insider tips on how to plan the best mini vacation is the US – including packing tips !

Save, Pin or Bookmark our US Weekend Trip Destination Guide to plan your getaway!

#1 New York City, New York

When it comes to the best cities for a long weekend, New York City tops our list! The Big Apple dazzles visitors with iconic sights, incredible attractions and fabulous food. The only problem with choosing NYC as a quick getaway for the weekend is that there are so many things to do!

New York City offers something for everyone – which is why it ranks as one of the best weekend destinations USA. History buffs will be just enthralled by the city as fashionistas. Fans of Art Deco architecture get as excited about NYC as foodies. Although the weather is seasonal, there isn’t a bad time to visit NYC – each season has its perks.

Travelers will find there are endless ways to plan a fun 3-day trip to NYC. Even budget travelers can explore the city on a dime – find all of our tips on how to Visit NYC on a Budget .

First-time visitors on short vacation trips to New York City can spend the weekend seeing the highlights – like the Statue of Liberty, Empire State Building and Central Park. Return travelers, who have already checked off their bucket list of must-see sights, can instead plan a weekend of unique sightseeing and neighborhood discovery. Are you planning a weekend trip to NYC for the Holidays? Get all our top tips for Christmas in New York !

Use the advice in our New York Itinerary for planning your quick NYC getaway!

#2 San Francisco, California

San Francisco ticks all the boxes for a fabulous weekend getaway in the US! It is simple to get to, easy to get around without a car, and is packed with an array of entertaining sights that travelers can choose to visit on their trip.

On getaways for the weekend, visitors can take in SF’s iconic sights – like the Golden Gate Bridge and Pier 39 – and ramble through the streets on a classic cable car. However, the reason we think it is one of the best weekend getaways is that you can see so much of the city by the bay on a short trip!

Even on a 2-day trip, visitors have time to discover San Francisco’s vibrant Chinatown, explore Haight-Ashbury and wander through Golden Gate Park. Even better, there is plenty of time to devour some of the best eats. If you happen to have more time, consider a California Coastal Road Trip !

Plan the best short weekend getaways to SF with our San Francisco Weekend Itinerary .

#3 Denver, Colorado

For a fun weekend trip in the US, Denver definitely fits the bill! In fact, when I lived in nearby Boulder, which is less than an hour from the city, we loved spending weekends in Denver. Sports, shopping, nightlife and nearby nature are just a few of the reasons Denver ranks as one of the best places in the US for a weekend getaway.

While Denver, undeniably, appeals to sports fans and craft beer enthusiasts, there are many more reasons to visit the Mile High City. The thriving downtown, which is easy to discover on foot, features diverse neighborhoods, magnificent museums and lovely city parks.

Traveling with family? Denver is one of the best weekend destinations in the US for family fun! The Denver Zoo and Elitch Gardens Amusement Park are right in the heart of the city.

However, what makes Denver one of the great weekend getaways in the US is the spectacular nature just outside the city limits. The top places to explore that are just a mere hour away are Pikes Peak, Garden of the Gods, Red Rocks and the Flatirons in Boulder.

Use our tips for three-day getaway in our Denver Weekend Itinerary .

#4 Portland, Oregon

Hip and funky, Portland is one of the coolest weekend trips in US! “Stumptown” boasts a relaxed atmosphere, a phenomenal foodie scene and plenty of outdoor space. After my initial visit, Portland (and all of Oregon for that matter) became one of my favorite quick vacation destinations.

Perfect for a casual weekend trip, visitors can settle into the vibe and explore the city on two wheels – just like locals do. Spending time in the central historic Pearl District is a must, but it’s just a place to start! Visitors to Portland will want explore other parts of the city – from the famous rose gardens to the intriguing neighborhoods, like Hawthorne and Division Street. Time permitting, visiting the amazing Multnomah Falls is one of the best weekend vacation ideas in Portland!

For the best 3-day weekend getaways to Portland, travelers should plan where to eat, too. The food in Portland ranges from fabulous food trucks and fancy donuts to 5-star dining – and every bite is amazing.

We wrap our specific tips in our 3-Day Portland Itinerary . 

#5 San Diego, California

Mmm. San Diego. Drink it in. San Diego is ideal for beach weekend getaways and summertime fun! The sunny coastal city is a dream for visitors looking for some quality R&R. Easy going and entertaining, San Diego is the quintessential California destination and one of the best places for a long weekend trip.

For many travelers, the beach is the main draw, but downtown SD is a must-see, too. Visitors who can tear themselves away from the sandy shoreline (and those visiting outside of the warm summer season) should spend time in the Gaslamp District, Little Italy and the expansive Balboa Park.

One of the highlights of San Diego weekend trips is iconic Coronado Island, which is fun to visit in all seasons!

Find more of our tips for SD weekend getaways in our San Diego Itinerary .

#6 Boston, Massachusetts

A wicked pissa , Boston gets our vote as one of the best weekend trips in America! Steeped in history, yet vibrant and modern, Boston appeals to an array of travelers.

By day, visitors can tour some of America’s most historic sites, wander through picture-perfect parks and go on a Duck Boat Tour , a bit of a Boston oddity. At night, Boston tourists will want to take a seat at one of the best seafood restaurants, tuck into a legendary tavern or cheer on the Red Sox at a baseball game.

While “Beantown” ranks as one of the top long weekend destinations in the summertime, we personally think it is one of the best fall getaways in US. Boston is absolutely gorgeous decorated in autumn leaves amongst the crisp weather; and it’s also a great time to enjoy the fine museums and cozy taverns.

Use our Boston Weekend Itinerary to help plan your trip to the city! 

#7 Seattle, Washington

Anyone looking for the best short vacation in the US should take a look at Seattle. The Emerald City boasts intriguing architecture, cool cafes and an abundance of outdoor space – making Seattle one of the fun weekend getaways in USA!

There are endless ways to plan a weekend trip to Seattle, but the Space Needle, Pike Place Market and Waterfront Park are must-sees (and can all easily be visited in a single day). Historic Pioneer Square, the unique Seattle Underground and Bainbridge Island are more top attractions not to be missed.

Experiencing the coffee culture is a highlight of any trip to the Pacific Northwest, but especially so in Seattle. Not only is the city home of coffee giant Starbucks, but is well-known for it’s many local Seattle coffee roasters, too.

Get more advice in our 3-Day Seattle Itinerary . 

#8 Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

For a long time, we only thought of Philadelphia as a layover city. However, when we finally ventured out of the airport, we fell in love with Philly – so much so that we now consider it to be one of the best long weekend getaways in the US!

Philadelphia is absolutely packed with fascinating historical sights – from the famous Liberty Bell to the iconic Independence Hall, where the United States Declaration of Independence was signed by the country’s founding fathers.

That said, there is so much more to the City of Brotherly Love than the past! South Philadelphia is filled with eclectic sights, street art murals and, of course, the best Philly Cheesesteaks. Meanwhile, the north side of Philly hosts an array of museums, the famed ‘Rocky steps’ and heaps of craft breweries.

Read more reasons in our Philadelphia Itinerary .

#9 Chicago, Illinois

There is no doubt about it: A weekend in Chicago is one of the cool weekend trips in the US. Soaring skyscrapers, riverboat tours, shopping and spacious parks dotted with monuments and art are top attractions. As if that is not enough, the food scene in Chicago is amazing, as well!

There are many ways to plan a quick weekend getaway to Chicago, but we recommend first-time Windy City visitors get a little taste of everything (literally!). Explore downtown Chicago on foot and by boat, eat the most amazing meals (hello, deep-dish pizza!), and balance out the feasting with long walks on the Lakefront Trail, in Lincoln Park or along the 606 Bloomingdale Trail.

In the summertime, catch a baseball game in Chicago and we bet you will have one of the best weekend getaways in the USA!

For detailed tips use our 3 Days in Chicago Itinerary .

#10 Austin, Texas

With stellar live music, excellent BBQ and Texas-sized sights, Austin easily ranks as one of the best long weekend vacations in the USA. As a bonus, Austin delivers big on outdoor activities, as well!

If you are looking to escape frigid temperatures elsewhere in the States, be assured that Austin is one of the fabulous winter getaways in the US! High temps hover in the 60s throughout the winter, which is significantly warmer than most of the United States during wintertime.

Some Austin visitors could probably spend their entire weekend trip on Sixth Street – Austin’s legendary bar street (and if that is what you want to do, we won’t judge!).

However, we highly recommend spending the days exploring the Texas Capitol building, Lady Bird Lake, the University of Texas Longhorns campus and the incredible Barton Springs. Of course, listening to some live tunes is essential – Austin is the Live Music Capital of the World! 

We share specifics for the best quick getaways in our Weekend in Austin Itinerary .

#11 New Orleans, Louisiana

New Orleans is one of the classic, great long weekend trips in the United States. Perfect for girls weekends, couples’ trips and even family vacations, NOLA welcomes tourists of all kinds.

New Orleans is a feast for the senses – from the buzzing street scenes to the jazz music that is perpetually played by performers. Weekend visitors to the Big Easy should wander through the fabulous French Quarter, dine on divine Southern dishes, step into a spooky cemetery and have a drink on Bourbon Street.

On a well-planned New Orleans weekend getaway, travelers can even plan adventures beyond the city center, taking in the sights in nearby districts or further afield on a swamp boat trip or plantation tour.

Read why NOLA is one of the best short trips in the US: How To Spend 3 Days in New Orleans . 

#12 Glacier National Park, Montana

Hands down, Glacier National Park in Montana is one of the best places to go for long weekend in the outdoors. Although it can be a bit tricky to get to depending on where you are coming from, trust us, the Crown of the Continent is worth the effort!

Highlighted by soaring mountains and crystal-clear lakes, Glacier NP is stunningly beautiful. Hikers will take to the incredible and rewarding trails, but you don’t necessarily need to get out of your car to enjoy the beauty. Going To The Sun Road takes visitors through the heart of GNP up to Logan Pass on the Continental Divide.

As one of the best summer weekend getaways in the US, advance planning is essential. Do a little research before your trip to decide which Glacier National Park Hikes you may want to complete. Not into hiking? No problem. After driving through the scenic park, peruse the boutique shops or get a spa treatment in quaint Whitefish – or sip locally produced craft beer in cute Kalispell .

Use our detailed 3-Day Glacier National Park for tips to plan your trip!

#13 Las Vegas, Nevada

Las Vegas has long been touted as one of the best quick weekend getaways in the United States. Developed as a tourist destination since 1931, Sin City’s neon lights have been welcoming weekend visitors for decades.

While Las Vegas ranks as one of the top quick weekend getaways in USA for gambling and partying, there are plenty of other activities in the Entertainment Capital of the World. Adventure attractions, legendary Las Vegas shows, mesmerizing museums and celebrity chef restaurants all aim to please.

Once you have checked off your list of must-see sights in Vegas, leave The Strip behind and go on one of the excellent excursions – like a day trip to the Grand Canyon or the Hoover Dam .

For tips on what to see and where to eat, use our Las Vegas Itinerary Guide for First Timers .

#14 Phoenix, Arizona

Ranking as one of the best long weekend getaways in USA, Phoenix doesn’t disappoint! With a revitalized and vibrant downtown, desert hiking close to the city center, a sprinkle of history and heaps of trendy dining options, the Valley of the Sun is an oasis of fun.

Although we do not recommend visiting the scorching desert city in the summertime, it is a fabulous place to visit in the wintertime. In fact, it’s one of the Best Winter Getaways in the United States !

Top wintertime activities include hiking at Phoenix Mountain Preserve, attending Las Noches de Las Luminarias at the Desert Botanical Gardens, dining al fresco at hip restaurants (like Postino and The Vig) and sipping local craft beer (check out Four Peaks and Angel’s Trumpet!).

Use our guides to the Best Phoenix Hikes and all the Top Things to do in PHX !

#15 Spokane, Washington

Spokane flies under the radar as far as getaways go, but we are going to let you in on the secret: Spokane is one of the best long weekend trips in the US! The city is casual – almost quaint – but has plenty of attractions to keep visitors entertained.

Outdoor activities abound in Spokane – from Riverfront Park where the beautiful Spokane Falls tumble downstream to the 37-mile Centennial Trail highlighted by art sculptures to the impressive gardens at Manito Park.

Historic enclaves – like the Browne’s Addition Neighborhood and classic Davenport Hotel – tell the story of Spokane’s past. Meanwhile, modern craft breweries and the youthful Gonzaga campus keep Spokane moving forward.

Plan your weekend getaway using our list of Things To Do in Spokane .

#16 Columbus, Ohio

Columbus is often overlooked as a destination, but we think it is one of the best weekend getaways in America. The capital of the Buckeye State has a flair for the arts and thrives on community events – plus, the people are really friendly!

Weekend visitors can discover the many downtown districts (German Village is a must!), explore the numerous Columbus Parks  (Franklin Park Conservatory is a gem!) and feast on the city’s best food at North Market. The Short North is the hip place for nightlife – and features heaps of eateries, bars and fun events, like the Gallery Hop.

The best time to visit Cbus is in the summertime – when the festival season is in full swing and the Columbus Clippers minor league baseball team takes the field. Although the weather starts to cool off quickly in the autumn, it is the best time to experience the thrill of the Ohio State Buckeyes football season.

Use our guide to help plan your long weekend trip to Columbus . 

#17 Washington DC

As America’s capital, Washington DC regularly makes the list of Best Cities for Weekend Trips USA – and it makes our list for the best short trips in the US, too!

DC offers an incredible array of activities that appeal to a wide range of visitors. Not only is Washington DC a good choice for the best weekend getaways for families, but it is ideal for couples, groups of friends and solo travelers as well.

On weekend trips to DC, travelers have time to experience the essentials of the city – like visiting the monuments and museums on the National Mall, touring the Capitol Building and seeing the White House. Plus, there is plenty of time to visit the unique neighborhoods – like the Wharf, Capitol Hill, Penn Quarter, and Georgetown.

Plan your weekend getaway with our 3-Days in DC Itinerary .

#18 Savannah, Georgia

Savannah is often touted as one of the best girl weekend getaways – and while I can’t argue that fact, I actually think it is an ideal quick trip for all travelers! Savannah exudes Southern charm (it’s nickname is the Hostess City of the South!) with its pleasant squares, time-worn mansions, and eerily beautiful moss-covered trees.

Weekend visitors are warmly welcomed to the city that is best explored on foot and with wonder. History (and some say ghosts) lurk around every corner and savory Southern dishes simmer in restaurant kitchens around the city. Trust us, Savannah cuisine is not to be missed!

Even though Savannah has a small-town vibe, it really comes alive at night. Weekend guests can partake in live music and festive cocktails at the city’s numerous outdoor bars – or keep it cozy in one of Savannah’s secret speakeasys.

Use our quick trip ideas in our Savannah Itinerary to plan your vacation!

#19 Nashville, Tennessee

There is no question about it: Nashville is one of the best weekend getaways in the United States! Nicknamed Music City, Nashvegas and even Smashville, Nashville knows how to show weekend visitors a good time.

Many of the top attractions revolve around the epic country music scene – but visitors don’t need to be country music fans to appreciate the sights and sounds of Nashville. The Grand Ole Opry, Ryman Auditorium, Country Music Hall of Fame and the Johnny Cash Museum are top picks for sightseeing, but city sights – like the Capitol Mall State Park – are equally interesting.

That said, two things not to miss in Nashville are the Honkytonk bars on Lower Broadway and the famous Hot Chicken from Hattie B’s. 

Plan your best weekend getaways using our 3 Days in Nashville Itinerary . 

#20 Santa Barbara, California

Situated on the cool California coastline, Santa Barbara is a classic coastal town that is ideal for a relaxing weekend getaway. In fact, we think Santa Barbara is one of the best weekend vacations in the US for its laid-back ambiance, hip wine district and ample outdoor activities.

On arrival, visitors will want to head straight for West Beach and Stearns Wharf for time in the sun and sand. Later in the afternoon, travelers can take a leisurely stroll up State Street, shopping at the boutique shops and visiting art galleries. However, we highly recommend detouring into the cool Funk Zone to get a taste of local wines from the many Santa Barbara tasting rooms. 

While we think Santa Barbara is an ideal weekend vacation on its own, ambitious weekend travelers can tour more of the Cali Coast to nearby destinations – like Malibu , Solvang and Los Angeles.

Get our advice for planning long weekend getaways with our detailed guide to Driving the California Coast . 

#21 Cincinnati, Ohio

A classic midwestern metropolis with a penchant for craft beer and sports, Cincinnati, OH is a prime destination for the best weekend trips in the US. In fact, growing up in Columbus , just a short two-hour drive away, Cincy has long been one of my favorite US getaways.

Visiting the fun Over the Rhine district is an absolute must on a trip to Cincinnati. Home to the Queen City’s hottest restaurants and coolest craft breweries, visitors could spend their entire weekend trip in the district eating and drinking…but then they would miss out on everything else Cincy has to offer!

Cincinnati is rife with fabulous and intriguing museums (many of which are free) and the city’s architecture is superb. That said, we actually rank Cincinnati as one of the best weekend vacations in US for the sporting events. The Cincinnati Reds are the beloved hometown baseball team and catching a game is a highlight of a weekend getaway to Cincy in the summer!

Read why Cincy ranks as a top weekend getaway in our article, Things To Do in Cincinnati !

#22 Louisville, Kentucky

With excellent museums, quirky attractions, cool districts and lots of bourbon, it is easy to understand why Louisville, KY ranks as one of the best weekend getaways in the US.

The city’s top attractions to visit on a weekend trip are the famous Louisville Slugger Museum (featuring baseball memorabilia), a repurposed pedestrian bridge (where trekkers can walk to Indiana) and the hip Nulu district (which is the place to go for food and drink).

Of course, a weekend getaway to Louisville would not be complete without sampling some of Derby City’s finest bourbon. Distillery Tours and Tastings abound in Louisville and it marks the official beginning of the Kentucky Bourbon Trail. Is beer your beverage of choice? There are numerous Louisville Breweries producing tasty local craft beer, as well!

Whether you are looking for cool weekend trips in the US for a guys’ weekend, a relaxing couples’ getaway or a fun family vacation, Louisville fits the bill!

Find out more in our article, Top Things To Do in Louisville .

#23 Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

A long way from its gritty Iron City past, Pittsburgh has become quite hip in recent years, which is why we rank it as one of the most fun cities for a weekend trip in USA.

The Burgh is marked by modern museums, historic sights, iconic architecture and an astounding number of beautiful bridges. Better yet, the downtown core is surrounded by casually cool neighborhoods that are a pleasure to explore on foot.

The North Side (along with its quirky attractions) and the revitalized Strip District (packed with fun bars and eateries) are top Pittsburgh districts to explore…and both are within walking distance from the city center. 

Toss a Pittsburgh Pirates baseball game in the summer into the mix and there is no doubt that you, too, will be raving about how Steel City is one of the most fun weekend trips in the US. 

Use our list of Pittsburgh Things To Do to plan your best weekend trip!

#24 Miami, Florida

While Miami has long been a popular destination for snowbirds escaping long and cold winters , the Magic City makes a fantastic spot for weekend trips all year long! Whether you’re seeking vibrant nightlife, a shopping extravaganza or just some R&R on the beach, Miami has you in mind!

From ritzy South Beach to hip Coconut Grove, Miami’s neighborhoods offer a different vibe for travelers seeking some weekend fun in the sun. Sports also features heavily as top Miami things to do, with the NFL, NBA, NHL and MLB all fielding professional teams. Additionally, there’s a certain soccer player named Messi attracting a lot of attention over at Inter Miami CF!

How To Plan the Best Weekend Getaways in US

We have highlighted the prime weekend vacation spots in US, but we have a few more tips for how to plan your weekend trip.

Organize your Weekend Getaway USA

While we are all for taking USA weekend trips on a whim, a little research and organization is essential for great weekend trips in the US. Get (and stay) organized for your weekend vacation with our Trip Planning Printables !

Booking Flights for Long Weekend Getaways in US

If flying to your weekend destination is the most convenient option, you will want to score a deal on your tickets. When we buy plane tickets, we always look at Skyscanner first, so that we can compare prices and easily see the cheapest flights.

For more airfare tips, read our guide to Booking the Best Flights .

Where To Stay on Long Weekend Trips in USA

On short trips in the US, we think it is essential to stay in centrally located accommodations. You will want to be in the heart of your destination so that it is easy to reach the must-see sights.

While we usually opt for Airbnb during our travels, for quick weekend trips we actually recommend staying in a hotel. The Airbnb fees can be exorbitant on short stays and coordinating check in and check out can be time consuming. A hotel, on the other hand, will likely have 24 hour check in and you can search for the best hotel prices on Booking.com .

Find more of our tips in our article, Booking the Best Hotels .

What You Will Need to Pack for U.S. Weekend Getaways

Packing your backpack or suitcase for a weekend trip can be a bit tricky. You will want to make sure you bring everything you need…without over-packing.

Use our Packing Hacks or top space-saving tips and find all of our advice on our Packing Page .

We think the lighter the better when it comes to packing. It is best to plan coordinating outfits that can be layered. Also, determine which everyday items are necessary for such a short trip (especially if you are staying in a hotel where amenities are provided).

Looking for somewhere off the beaten path? 

Start planning your USA Trip ! Search for the lowest airfares , the best accommodations and fun things to do …then start packing !   Want more travel planning tips? Head over to our Travel Planning Page for more information on traveling!

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3 Days in New York: The Ultimate Guide for 2024

My nyc itinerary for 3 days.

If you want to experience the best of New York in 3 days, this is the article for you. I’ve been to my favorite city more than 20 times and I’ve put together the most important sights, restaurants, stores, galleries and much more in this itinerary for 3 days in New York. My goal with this is for you to have a great time in the Big Apple, experience and see a lot, and still have enough time to just enjoy the city.

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Before we get started: since three days are not really much time, it makes sense to plan your time wisely and, for example, buy your tickets in advance to save time when you’re there. Another option is to buy one of the New York sightseeing passes . With a pass you are best prepared AND you can save even more money!

Table of Contents

NYC Itinerary: Day One

Day one of our three-day itinerary focuses on Midtown Manhattan and the must-see attractions, from parks and buildings to observation decks and museums.

The Perfect First Morning in NYC

01 Start Your Day in Central Park!

Central Park is an attraction that every NYC visitor must see. Not only is the park a sprawling, gorgeous natural oasis in the middle of a busy city, but it’s also full of history, folklore, and character.

However, considering Central Park encompasses 843 acres, seeing everything in one visit is nearly impossible. For your first trip, we’ve included two stops to explore.

First is Bow Bridge , arguably the park’s most famous landmark. This bridge has been featured in many movies and is popular with locals and tourists alike. Then, you will head over to the Bethesda Terrace , where you will find one of the first structures constructed in Central Park. In this area, you will find lots of history, street performers, Instagram stars, and more.

Choose Between Two of The Best Museums!

As a note: New York may be one of the best cities in the world for museums. In fact, we’ve outlined all of our favorite New York museums here. With your 2-day NYC itinerary, however, we know you don’t have time to visit them all, so we’re recommending two of the best here.

02 Option A: Metropolitan Museum of Art

After Central Park, we are providing you with two options, of which the first is the Metropolitan Museum of Art. More commonly known as The Met, this museum is the largest art museum in the country and is also one of the largest art museums in the world. It is home to a permanent collection of more than two million works of art that are divided into 17 curatorial departments. The museum was founded in 1870 with the mission of bringing art and education to the American people. Located near Central Park, here you will find a permanent collection of works from ancient Egypt and classical antiquity, sculptures and paintings from nearly every European Master, and a large collection of modern and American art.

03 Option B: Museum of Modern Art

Your other option is to visit the MoMA or Museum of Modern Art. This museum is located in Midtown Manhattan and is home to more than 300,000 exhibition catalogs and books, 40,000 files of ephemera about groups and individual artists, and over 1,000 periodical titles. In fact, the MoMA plays a significant role in collecting and developing modern art, making it one of the world’s most influential modern art museums. It’s also one of the world’s most visited museums, making it a must-see attraction in NYC.

04 Stroll Down Millionaire's Row

Even if you’ve never visited NYC, you have heard of 5th Avenue. It’s been deemed the most expensive and famous shopping district in the world, and for a good reason! Just walking down this main thoroughfare that connects Upper Manhattan to Lower Manhattan gives you a feeling like nowhere else in the world!

From world-famous restaurants to high-end luxury shops and everything in between – you’ll find it on 5th Avenue! So, for day one of our itinerary, you will spend a bit of time taking in the sights and tastes of 5th Avenue before moving on with your day.

05 Visit the Rockefeller Center

You simply cannot visit New York City and not see Rockefeller Center, even if just for a short time. This national historic landmark is situated in the heart of Midtown Manhattan and comprises 19 buildings across 22 acres. This complex is home to NBC Studios, Top of the Rock Observation Deck, Radio City Music Hall, and much more. So, here you can simply take a stroll and enjoy the many sights and sounds of Rockefeller Center, or you have many options for activities such as shopping and dining. One thing I will reiterate is that if you plan to visit the Top of the Rock, you should book tickets in advance to save time on day one.

You can find out more about Rockefeller Center at their official website.

06 Marvel at St. Patrick's Cathedral

NYC is home to many gorgeous architectural styles, but some structures just stand out more than others. One such structure is the St. Patrick’s Cathedral in Midtown Manhattan. This building is the end result of centuries of planning, hard work, and refurbishing, but it captures the admiration and attention of every person who passes by. Constructed in 1878, this Cathedral is one of the largest Gothic Revival Catholic cathedrals in America. Given that this building is located right across from Rockefeller Center, there’s no better time to marvel at this beautiful building and snap some pictures to capture the memory!

For more on the history of this Catholic cathedral in Manhattan, visit their official website .

07 Take a Break in Bryant Park

Bryant Park is located between Fifth and Sixth Avenues in Midtown Manhattan and covers just over 9 acres. One of the largest features in the park is the large lawn that’s situated just below the surrounding pathways. Aside from serving as a lunch spot for office workers, this area is also seating for major events hosted here, like Broadway in Bryant Park, Bryant Park Movie Nights, and Square Dance. While in Bryant Park , be sure to watch for numerous sculptures placed around the property and take a ride on the iconic Carousel before heading to your next stop.

The Perfect First Afternoon in NYC

01 Visit The Impressive New York Public Library

And Bryant Park also brings us to the next stop: the New York Public Library. In fact, the main branch of the system is housed within this park. Easily recognizable by the lion statues out front, the Main Branch was constructed in 1911 and is one of four research libraries within the library system.

The building is open to the public, but wear your walking shoes if you go inside. The structure is four stories tall and is said to contain more than 2.5 million volumes in its collection. Still, even if you do not venture far inside, just seeing the New York Public Library in Bryant Park is exhilarating!

For more on the NYPL, including upcoming events, you can visit their site .

02 Stop by Macy's

Macy’s Herald Square location in Midtown is the flagship store for the company and serves as Macy’s corporate headquarters. The building spans an entire city block and encompasses over 2.5 million square feet, of which 1.25 million square feet is retail space.

Thus, this is your opportunity to visit the largest department store in the U.S. and one of the largest in the world. Not only can you shop until you drop, browsing some of the most iconic brands, but there are also many places to grab food. Moreover, during the holidays, Macy’s Herald Square location is an excellent place to catch the Macy’s Day Parade or simply look at the holiday window displays.

For more information you can visit Macy’s official website .

03 Marvel at Manhattan from the waterside

This Circle Line cruise will take you past NYC’s most famous attractions and landmarks. You will head past the Statue of Liberty, the One World Trade Center, the Empire State Building, Ellis Island, the Brooklyn Bridge, amd much much more. If you are looking to explore Manhattan from the water and learn some of the history of NYC at the same time, this is definitely the cruise for you. At a lenght of approximately 1.5 hours, this cruise will take you half way around the Island of Manhattan as well as once around the Statue of Liberty for the ultimate photo opportunity.

04 Spend Some Time at The Remarkable Hudson Yards

There’s no better time to visit Hudson Yards, now that it’s gotten a face-lift and is home to a state-of-the-art building facility. At 28 acres, Hudson Yards is larger than Rockefeller Center and boasts an impressive neighborhood that is fun to experience. While here, you will find a hotel, monumental sculpture, art space, offices, restaurants, residences, a mall, an observation deck, and 14 acres of green public space. Regardless if you just stop by Hudson Yards to browse and say you’ve been there or shop and have a meal, this is one NYC attraction you don’t want to miss!

There are two amazing attractions in Hudson Yards, and you will choose one for the sake of this three-day NYC itinerary.

Option A: The Edge The first option is The Edge, and, trust me, you will not experience NYC like this anywhere else in the city! Edge is the Western Hemisphere’s highest outdoor sky deck that features a unique, one-of-a-kind design. Suspended in mid-air, Edge gives you the feeling of floating in the sky. When you combine this with the 360-degree views of New York, it’s understandable why this is one of the area’s most-visited attractions. Just keep in mind that this option may not be best for those with a fear of heights, as The Edge allows you to peer 100 stories below from the glass floor.

Option B: The Shed If heights are not your thing, the other unique experience at Hudson Yards is The Shed. This cultural center commissions original artwork for all audiences across all disciplines. The Shed combines emerging and established artists in fields ranging from classical music to hip hop, digital media to painting, literature to theater, and dance to sculpture in a unique moveable structure that can adapt to support many inventive types of art in one building. The Shed is located at 15 Hudson Yards and borders the Gardens and Public Square. And even if you don’t go inside to see the exhibits of these attractions , just know that Edge and The Shed both feature innovative building techniques that are wonderful to marvel at from the outside.

For more on everything related to the Hudson Yards, visit their official website .

05 Wander Above The Streets at The High Line

Continuing on day one, the next stop is NYC’s High Line. Built atop a defunct viaduct section of the New York Rail System, you will find the High Line, which is an elevated linear greenway and park. The park is 1.45 miles long and will take you from Hudson Yards through Chelsea to the Meatpacking District. Here you will find artwork, lush horticulture, community events, seasonal food vendors, and unique views of the city skyline and Hudson River.

If you want to make even more out of your time around the High Line, stop at the Chelsea Piers and take a cruise.

To discover more about this elevated landscape on the West Side of Manhattan, visit the High Line’s official website .

06 Visit Little Island, a Park on The Hudson River

As you make your way into Chelsea and the Meatpacking District, you’ll find an artificial island park called Little Island.

Situated on the Hudson River, Little Island opened in 2021 to serve as an oasis for New Yorkers. With over two acres of distinctive architecture, magnificent landscaping, free programs, and dazzling views, Little Island is not like any other park you’ve visited. Here you can enjoy the gorgeous scenery, grab food from local vendors, or play the various games and activities that are placed around the island. Entrance is free, and Little Island is a great place to reflect on the day for a few minutes.

For more about Little Island, including upcoming events, check out their official website .

07 Come to Union Square

As you head back toward 5th Avenue, you will find your next stop: Union Square. This is not just another neighborhood. It is a park where Flatiron, Gramercy, and East Village meet. From the famed George Washington on horseback statue to the Union Square Greenmarket, Fotografiska, and the various local eateries and shops, Union Square is a bustling centrally-located attraction that has much to offer. Tourists and locals alike enjoy spending time around Union Square, and this is also an excellent place to catch street performers and other entertainment. Don’t forget to stop by Breads Bakery and get one of their iconic buttery croissants before moving on!

For a full list of restaurants, bars, and a calendar of events, visit Union Square’s official website .

08 Come to Flatiron Building and Madison Square Park

Madison Square Park is named after America’s fourth President, James Madison, and is most famous for providing the name of the iconic sports arena Madison Square Garden. The park is located at the northern end of the Flatiron District and is a public park that encompasses over six acres in the heart of NYC. Perhaps the coolest thing about this park is that it has been a public space since 1686!

This is a must-stop location for day one, as you’ll have spectacular views of many famous buildings such as the Flatiron Building, New York Life Building, the Toy Center, Appellate Division Courthouse, One Madison Park, and the MetLife Tower.

For more information visit the official website of Madison Square Park .

09 A New York City Must-See: The Empire State Building

As you continue on the trek, enjoy the sights and sounds of 5th Avenue as you head toward Times Square. Yet, before you make it there, be sure to stop out front of the Empire State Building. Once the tallest building in the world, this towering structure is home to an observatory on the 102nd floor. And it’s a good thing the building is equipped with 73 elevators. Otherwise, you would have to climb 1,872 stairs to reach the top. Of course, going inside the Empire State Building is optional, but at the very least, stop by and take a few pictures out front!

For more information about the building and the kinds of tickets available, visit our guide about the Empire State Building .

10 End Your First Day Surrounded by Colorful Lights at Times Square

Times Square is one of NYC’s most popular tourist attractions and is the epicenter of all things media. So, it’s only fitting that you visit this area on the first day of your trip. Depending on what time of the day you make it to Times Square, strolling through the area, you may find it illuminated under the bright lights of the night or during the day with its digital billboards and skyscrapers looming above.

Either way, Times Square is impressive and a place everyone should experience at least once in their lives. When visiting Times Square, consider catching a Broadway show at one of the many local theaters!

11 Soak up One Last View of NYC

Finishing out day one of your trip, we are providing you with two options for your last attraction of the day.

Option A: Summit One Vanderbilt (my favorite observation deck in NYC!) First, check out the Summit One Vanderbilt, which is, hands down, the best observation deck in NYC! Located on the top three floors of one of Manhattan’s tallest skyscrapers is a multi-sensory, immersive experience that combines floor-to-ceiling mirrors with art installations and amazing views. Summit One Vanderbilt is a different experience than what you get with any of NYC’s other observation decks. And this is a good thing! Of course, if you’re feeling really adventurous, you can also take part in Ascent, which is the largest external glass-bottomed elevator in the world.

You can find more information in our guide about the Summit One Vanderbilt observation decks , including info about tickets.

Option B: The Refinery Rooftop The Refinery Rooftop is a fan favorite for both tourists and locals alike. Located on top of the Refinery Hotel, this coveted spot offers awe-inspiring views of the Empire State Building and the NYC skyline. By day, the Refinery Rooftop is a melange of fashion, culture, and culinary delights as chef Jeff Haskell prepares a full lunch menu with options like Seared Yellowfin Tuna and Little Gem Caesar salads. At night, which is around the time you’ll probably arrive, the Refinery Rooftop is transformed into a more lively place to sip on some signature cocktails. Regardless of which option you choose, both attractions offer spectacular city views and overall experiences.

Check out the menu and make your reservations at the Refinery Rooftop here .

NYC Itinerary: Day Two

Moving a bit south, day two of the itinerary focuses on Lower Manhattan, primarily the areas just south of Gramercy Park to Chinatown . From shopping, cafes, and unique neighborhoods to Union Square and the Meatpacking district , let’s take a look at day two.

Start into Your Second Day

01 Enjoy a Delicious Breakfast in the West Village

To kick off your second day, the tour will begin in the West Village. This is a popular attraction thanks to its trendy restaurants and designer boutiques. Yet, the other draw to this area is the quaint streets, some of which are still made from cobblestone. Here you’ll find Federal-style townhouses lining the streets that are dotted with public spaces. Though West Village is historically artsy and home to many cabarets, theaters, and piano bars that are busy at night, during the day, it’s a whole different atmosphere.

Given that you will be here first thing in the morning, stop by Dante West Village for breakfast and then browse the shops before stopping by a cafe for a snack or tasty beverage.

02 Take a Walk in Greenwich Village

Heading west from West Village to Greenwich Village , you’ll be entering one of NYC’s most historically wealthy areas. This neighborhood is highly coveted thanks to its appealing architecture that spans every decade.

When in the area, don’t forget to look for the famed Friends apartment building and check out Washington Square Park . One of the city’s most beloved parks, Washington Square Park is much smaller than Central Park, only covering about 10 acres. Here you will find a wide array of people from all walks of life. From families and NYU students to poets, artists, chess players, and musicians, you really never know who you will see here!

03 Explore the Neighborhoods of SoHo, Little Italy and Chinatown

• SoHo Located just Northeast of Greenwich Village is the ever-popular SoHo neighborhood. Here you’ll find lots of shopping and dining options. From fancy chain stores and designer boutiques to art galleries and more, SoHo is a common shopping destination for out-of-towners. Admired for its elegant cast-iron building facades and cobblestone streets, this area is a magnet for fashionable crowds who gather at restaurants and nightlife spots. You will be visiting SoHo during the day, so prepare to fill your time shopping, and don’t forget to check out the street vendors who offer everything from original artwork to jewelry.
• Little Italy The next stop on day two is Little Italy. This location is usually included on every tourist’s must-see list because it offers a romantic, old-world New York atmosphere that is world-famous and features authentic Italian dishes that cannot be beaten. At one time, Little Italy stressed from Houston to Canal Streets, between the Bowery and Lafayette Street, as immigrants from Sicily and Naples flooded the neighborhood in the 1880s. Today, Little Italy is primarily confined to the blocks around Mulberry Street. Nonetheless, here you will find some of the trendiest clothing shops and best bars in the city.
• Chinatown Home to many Asian immigrants, New York City’s Chinatown is one of the most evocative neighborhoods in the city. Walking its narrow, busy streets reveals surprise after surprise. Marvel at sights like Chatham Square’s statue of Lin Zexu, a Qing dynasty official credited with leading the fight against Britain’s illegal opium importation. Then, keep walking and check out the unique pagoda-style roofs and the Buddhist Temple. Many tourists also venture over to Doyers Street, where you’ll find speakeasies and basement bars that will make you think it’s the 1920s all over again. Bring your appetite and work your way through dumpling dens, dim sum palaces, and noodle joints.

Your Second Afternoon

01 Discover the Lower East Side

The Lower East Side is an eclectic Manhattan neighborhood where tenement-style buildings and gritty alleys mix with chic boutiques and upscale apartments. If you want to visit this area at night, you’ll find it draws young, hip crowds with local music venues, restaurants, and trendy bars. During the day, take in the city’s Jewish heritage as you pass by the Tenement Museum and old-world fabric stores.

Finish out your time in the Lower East Side by stopping at Katz’s Delicatessen and Yonah Schimmel’s Knish . These two restaurants have been in the city for decades and offer up the freshest and tastiest Jewish delicacies and comfort food – you will not be disappointed!

02 Another beautiful neighborhood: The East Village

Heading north toward NoHo is East Village. Once the birthplace of punk rock music, today, East Village is still an artsy section of town, as it is home to many music venues, comedy clubs, and theaters. While in East Village, stop by Astor Place, which was named after John Jacob Astor, America’s richest man at one time. This is a cool area that is famous for the Joseph Papp Public Theatre and the Blue Man Group.

Of course, Astor Place and East Village are both home to some wonderful restaurants and cafes to enjoy while in the neighborhood.

03 Come back to Union Square

As you make your way back toward Greenwich Village, the next stop is another visit to Union Square. Union Square NYC is the heart of everything that happens and is one of the best places to experience everything the city has to offer.

Use this visit to do something different than you did on day one. Perhaps you can go to 14th Street and spend an hour or two strolling, shopping, and dining. Regardless of what you choose to do, Union Square is home to many businesses, from restaurants and bars to shopping, lodging, and theaters.

04 Get to know the glamorous Meatpacking District

Once a neighborhood full of factories and slaughterhouses, NYC’s Meatpacking District has transformed into one of the city’s most glamorous neighborhoods. This luxury destination is home to stylish restaurants, trendy hotels, and luxe clubs. Along the historic cobblestone streets, you’ll also find many upscale salons and boutiques, as well as world-class attractions like the High Line and the Whitney Museum of American Art.

While here, stop at the Sugar Factory, Chelsea Market, or venture over to the Gansevoort Market, where you’ll find a food area and farmer’s market that have been in NYC since 1884. The Meatpacking District is a wonderful place to grab a bite to eat, sip on a signature cocktail, or simply take in the sights of one of the local area attractions like the High Line.

05 Let the day end on Bleecker Street

To finish out an amazing day two of your trip, spend the evening on Bleecker Street. This is basically a one-mile stretch of road that starts in the West Village and runs to Greenwich Village. Bleecker Street is a great way to spend an evening because it is home to so many tasty restaurants, including one of my personal favorites, Dante’s NYC . However, if the tastes of Dante’s aren’t right for you, no worries – Bleecker Street is home to many restaurants, bars, clubs, theaters, art galleries, hotels, and more. In fact, here you will find NYC’s oldest rock and roll club known as The Bitter End , and one of the most authentic blues clubs in the city, Terra Blues.

NYC Itinerary: Day Three

Welcome to day three of your three-day NYC trip! Today will focus on some of New York City’s most famous and iconic landmarks. From Tribeca and the Statue of Liberty to DUMBO and Brooklyn, let’s take a look at day three.

Start Your Third Day in NYC

01 Take a Stroll Around Tribeca

Tribeca is one of NYC’s most hip areas and is renowned for its old industrial buildings that now serve as residential loft spaces. The area’s cobblestone streets are lined with trendy restaurants and boutiques, and you’ll find historical buildings such as the 1884 red-brick New York Mercantile Exchange. Families and other visitors enjoy quiet weekends along the Hudson River and through Washington Market Park.

If you’re lucky, perhaps the Tribeca Film Festival will be taking place, which is held here in the spring each year. Regardless, Tribeca is full of NYC charm, architecture, and other unique sights to see.

02 Take Some Time at 9/11 Memorial & Museum

The terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001, are forever etched in the minds of people around the world, but especially in New York City. Your second stop on day three is the 9/11 National Memorial and Museum .

Here you can pay your respects to those who were lost that fateful day, spend quiet time gathering your thoughts around the reflection pools, and view some of the artifacts saved from that day. In fact, you can check out the Survivor’s Stairs, pieces of the aircraft, damaged steel beams, the Survivor’s Tree, and much more. Just remember that this attraction does get busy, so the earlier you arrive at this stop, the better.

03 Enjoy a Breathtaking View From One World Observatory

Next up, you’ll enjoy the breathtaking views of Lower Manhattan from the One World Observatory.

Once you enter the building, you begin an ascent to the 102nd floor, where the deck is located. As you travel up the building, you are placed in a lift that is covered by screens and depicts an amazing time-lapse of New York City’s evolution from its founding as a 17th Century Dutch colony to the present-day marvel that it is. At the top of the skyscraper, which is the tallest building in NYC, you’ll enter the Observatory and enjoy views of New York that you won’t find anywhere else.

For more information about the One World Observatory, including information about tickets, head to our complete guide .

Make The Most of Your Last Afternoon

01 Say Hello to Lady Liberty

Arguably two of the most famous landmarks in the world, you cannot visit NYC for the first time and not see the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. The place where so many immigrants began their American dreams and the perfect gift from France, these two attractions have long been a draw for many tourists in NYC. Regardless if you just arrive at the area and marvel from afar or plan visits to both Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty, which is located on Liberty Island, you will not be disappointed.

If you are feeling extra adventurous, sign up for the Hard Hat Tour of Ellis Island, which gives you a tour of the Ellis Island Hospital, where some 275,000 immigrants were treated as they entered the country. Defunct since 1951, the hospital has fallen into disrepair, and the tour is a way to Save the Ellis Island Hospital.

02 Visit The World's Most Famous Financial District

After seeing what American dreams are made of, it’s time to head toward another infamous landmark: Wall Street.

Located in the heart of New York City’s Financial District, Wall Street is famous for the Charging Bull statue and the New York Stock Exchange building. As you stroll down this famous street, also be sure to check out the Fearless Girl statue in front of the NYSE building, Federal Hall with its famous statue of George Washington, and then stop by Trinity Church for a free tour if you’d like.

Once the sights on Wall Street are over, you can enjoy a quick bite to eat or grab a drink at one of the many cafes and restaurants in the area.

03 Take Some Classic NYC Pictures on Brooklyn Bridge

The legendary Brooklyn Bridge was constructed from 1869 until 1883 and was designed by John A. Roebling. When it was built, the Brooklyn Bridge was the world’s longest suspension bridge and the first bridge to use steel as cable wire. This bridge connects Manhattan to Brooklyn and spans the East River. This is a must-see attraction that is known for its beloved stone arches.

Just beware, it accommodates six lanes of traffic as well as a bicycle and a pedestrian path. It is estimated that the Brooklyn Bridge is used daily by 30,000 pedestrians, 3,000 cyclists, and 116,000 vehicles.

04 Enjoy Amazing Views of The Manhattan Skyline From Brooklyn Bridge Park

Brooklyn Bridge Park has something for everyone. Whether you want to explore the rich ecology, sweeping vistas, vibrant programming, or expansive piers, you’ll find it here. Spanning 85 acres, this waterfront park features riverfront promenades, rolling hills, lush gardens, and dazzling city views.

Quite simply, if you are visiting NYC for the first time and planning to see the Brooklyn Bridge, do not miss this accompanying park. Spend a few minutes relaxing by the waterfront or engage in a fun game of bocce ball, basketball, or handball. No matter what you choose to do, Brooklyn Bridge Park is a treasure that you have to see!

For more on what you can do while you’re at the park, including upcoming events, visit their official website .

05 Take a Picture of The Manhattan Bridge in DUMBO

Now that you are on the Brooklyn side of the bridge, it’s time to check out the Manhattan Bridge view from DUMBO. If you are wondering what DUMBO stands for, it means “Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass.” Situated along Washington Street, you’ll find the Manhattan Bridge viewpoint. This is hands down the best view of this bridge that you’ll find in the city and makes for the perfect photo-op backdrop. The bridge view, combined with the tree-lined cobblestone streets and red brick buildings, provides one of NYC’s best places to take photos and create memories.

Here’s a pro tip: look directly beneath the bridge, and you’ll see the Empire State Building peeking through!

06 Explore Some of The Best Restaurants at Time Out Market

All of this walking and sightseeing may have made you a bit famished, but not to worry, DUMBO is home to the Time Out Market. You’ve never experienced a food court quite like this before! First of all, having so many food options you can eat at the same place is amazing! But when you consider how different your family’s tastes are, it’s so wonderful for everyone to enjoy what they want. From Asian fusion, barbecue, and Indian to bakeries, healthy options, and other specialty restaurants, you can find nearly every type of dish here! The bonus is that the Time Out Market is located on the fifth floor of the building, so you can see the East River, Brooklyn Bridge, and Manhattan Bridge right from the terrace!

Get ready to visit Brooklyn’s Time Out Market by checking the full list of dining and drinking options here.

07 Take The NYC Ferry Back to Manhattan

There’s no doubt you may be tired of walking by this point of day three, so we’re going to give you a break.

One of the last stops on your final day is taking a ride on the NYC Ferry back to Manhattan. Rather than walking across the Brooklyn Bridge again, hop on the ferry and enjoy the ride back to either Wall Street or Pier 11. If you’re not a fan of the ferry, you can also rent a bike at Citi Bike and ride over the Manhattan Bridge. Regardless of which “ride” you take back to Manhattan, this is an excellent way to see some additional sights as you close out your final day.

08 Let The Day End in The Lower East Side

East Village and the Lower East Side both make wonderful options for some nightlife activities. In fact, these are some of the most famed nightlife spots in the city! The bar scene is phenomenal, as they have cocktail lounges, dive bars, speakeasies, and karaoke bars. Then, if it’s dinner or a late-night snack you want, that’s here too! Though some come for the Japanese food of bars, others flock to this area for the eclectic mix of people who attend the area’s many nightclubs.

Whether you enjoy a quiet night at a cocktail lounge or a wild night at The Pyramid Club, have fun and enjoy your last night in the Big Apple.

Tips for Visiting NYC for the First Time

New York City is an amazing Megacity that can be quite overwhelming even for locals. Yet, the good news is that New Yorkers are busy, but they are also very helpful. Traffic cops and signs are always present to guide you, but with a few tips and tricks, your NYC visit can be as hassle-free as visiting the store near your house. Here are our tips for visiting NYC for the first time.

• Pack Comfortable Shoes If you are traveling to the Big Apple and plan to follow our itinerary, be sure to pack comfortable shoes. This is non-negotiable because you will do a ton of walking! After all, it’s the greatest city in the world, so who wants to be stuck in a car?
• Pay Attention Not only can NYC streets be dirty, but you never know who or what you may run into on the street. Remaining vigilant and aware of your surroundings will keep you safe and ensure you have a great first trip.
• Invest in Passes Before you arrive in the city, it’s best to have a clear plan for what you will see and do. Buying a New York CityPASS and subway pass will not only save you money but a great deal of time as well.
• Stay Close to Transportation The last thing you want is to be located far away from the primary types of transportation, i.e., the subway. Traffic is horrendous, and to make the most out of your three days, you will want to quickly access different parts of the city.
• Research Places to Eat Yes, NYC is full of Michelin-star-rated eateries, but it’s also home to many hole-in-the-walls, local restaurants, and food trucks. Before arriving in the city, take some time to research places to eat near your hotel and on your tour route. Doing this is a great way to save money on food or at least prevent going over budget.
• Live in the Moment NYC is one of the world’s most vibrant cities. So, while you are there, save a bit of time to just stop and live in the moment. Take videos and pictures, but remember to see New York City with your eyes as well!

Where to Stay

As you would imagine, there are many wonderful places to stay in the Big Apple. However, before you book a super luxe Upper Midtown hotel, you should know that it takes about twenty minutes to get to Midtown Manhattan.

Still, the truth is that every NYC neighborhood offers a unique and distinct style and personality. From trendy or luxurious to family-friendly. Hence, it can be challenging to pick the perfect lodging destination. Depending on your preferences, travel style, and who you are visiting with, you may decide to avoid some areas to make your trip more memorable.

That said, you still want to enjoy what NYC has to offer. So, it’s probably best if you choose a place that is centrally located. Here are our top three neighborhoods to stay in NYC during a short trip:

Option 1: Midtown Manhattan

If you are like most people, then you want to spend your first time in the city seeing the places you have been watching on TV and in movies for years. The part of Manhattan that you usually see depicted is Midtown. Midtown is where you will find most of the iconic buildings, and the location is central, so getting anywhere in the city is easy. It is important to note that because Midtown is home to so many tourist attractions, it’s always crowded and busy. Yet, it’s a great area to stay for first-time travelers because there are hotels to fit every budget.

Find the best hotels in Midtown Manhattan and everything you need to know about this neighborhood in my guide about Midtown Manhattan .

Option 2: Financial District

NYC is often referred to as the world’s financial capital, and the Financial District serves as its epicenter. This lower Manhattan neighborhood is home to Wall Street and the New York Stock Exchange and is where business travelers are commonly found. First-time travelers enjoy the Financial District because it is a business-centric area that is steeped in history. In fact, some of the historic restaurants, bars, and cobblestone streets date back to the 1800s.  Staying in the Financial District puts you close to the 9/11 Memorial, One World Trade Center, Ellis Island, the Statue of Liberty and so much more!

Find the best hotels in the Financial District and everything you need to know in my guide about the Financial District in New York .

Option 3: SoHo

SoHo, or South of Houston Street, is where you will find many shops, art galleries, designer boutiques, and cobblestone streets. The good thing about staying in this district is that it’s more of a residential area, so there are fewer crowds. So, while everyone else is waiting to access landmarks, you can enjoy some of the art galleries and shops. If you are visiting NYC for the first time and are a pizza enthusiast or fashionista, then this is where you want to be! Just be sure that your phone is fully charged for endless photo ops and possible celebrity sightings!

Sounds like you? Then check out my hotel tips for Soho and my neighborhood guide for SoHo in New York here!

The Ultimate New York Travel Guide 2024

The ultimate NYC Christmas itinerary for 1, 2 and 3 days

2 Days in New York: The Ultimate Guide for 2024

I'm a true New York fan! Not only have I visited the city over 25 times but also have I spent several months here at a time. On my blog I show you the best and most beautiful spots of the city, so that you have a really good time! You can also find lots of insider tips in our New York travel guide . Also check out my hotel finder for New York !

Hole dir deine wöchentliche Dosis New York mit meinem Loving New York-Newsletter! Er ist vollgestopft mit den neuesten Artikeln, Videos, Erfahrungsberichten und allem, was gerade Interessantes und Wissenswertes im Big Apple passiert.

Ich selbst war über 25x in meiner Lieblingsstadt und möchte dir mit meinen Emails dabei helfen, eine sensationelle Zeit vor Ort zu haben.

Und als BONUS bekommst meine ✔️ "24 Tipps für deine New York-Reise" ✔️ die U-Bahn-Karte und ✔️ die offizielle NYC-Karte zugeschickt. Ganz KOSTENLOS!

Start of your trip: We will remind you with current events when you are in NYC!

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• Romantic Getaways

The Best Weekend Getaways for Couples

Getting out of town could be just the thing to spice up your relationship.

Nothing keeps the sparks flying like traveling together. Navigating new places with your significant other while spending quality one-on-one time is a great way to deepen your bond and create lasting memories.

Whether for Valentine's Day, an anniversary , or just a long weekend, why not go away together to a rustic lodge, laze on a tropical beach, or toast at a countryside winery? Whatever your idea of a romantic escape is, we'll help you get there with these great weekend destinations perfect for couples. Get ready for starry-eyed bliss.

• Best for outdoor adventures: Park City, Utah
• Best for luxury: Playa del Carmen, Mexico
• Best for culinary experiences: Charleston, South Carolina
• Best for a glamorous getaway: Palm Springs, California
• Best for beach days: Watch Hill, Rhode Island

Read on for the full list of our recommendations.

Park City, Utah

Tessa Desjardins/Travel + Leisure

What's more dreamy than cozying up by a fireplace in a snowy mountain lodge? Having local whiskey and chocolates in hand, of course. Park City is a winter wonderland rich with small-town charms, and it's quickly accessible from Salt Lake City International Airport.

Hit the slopes at two world-class resorts — Park City Mountain and Deer Valley — which offer some of the world's greatest ski conditions. In between runs on fresh powder, savor magnificent snow-capped landscapes and gourmet fare at several on-mountain pit stops. For a stellar après-ski situation, make your way to the ski-in, ski-out St. Regis Deer Valley resort for decadent hot chocolate, fireside s'mores, and craft cocktails.

Beyond mountain sports, Utah's historic mining town is like a holiday postcard come to life, full of perfect date activities like sleigh rides, ice skating, hot-air balloon rides, dog sledding, and shopping along historic Main Street, where the facades of many acclaimed restaurants and saloons are preserved from the 1880s. Unwind with a whiskey flight at Park City's own High West Distillery . For an excellent candlelit dinner featuring local live music, head to Riverhorse on Main , then saddle up to the popular No Name Saloon Bar & Grill for a nightcap. There's so much for couples to see and do in "Winter's Favorite Town."

Playa Del Carmen, Mexico

Taylor McIntyre/Travel + Leisure

Just a short drive south from the Cancun airport, Playa del Carmen is situated along the Yucatán's palm-lined Caribbean coastline. With its unspoiled natural setting and upscale hotels, Mexico's Riviera Maya is a first-rate vacation destination — and an ideal escape for lovebirds seeking warm weather.

If privacy and luxury are your speed, say "hola" to one of the area's most romantic resorts: The five-star Rosewood Mayakoba . Set along the edges of a freshwater lagoon, the property features refined accommodations with over-the-top amenities, heated plunge pools, and in-room mezcal to spice things up. You'll also find three infinity pools, an open kitchen for interactive culinary experiences, and a beachfront fire pit to curl up next to in the moonlight.

And if you want to explore off-property, other nearby resorts, like Andaz Myakoba and Banyan Tree Myakoba , are connected by bike paths. Simply borrow a complimentary bike and set off through the jungle.

Charleston, South Carolina

Charleston , called "Holy City" because of its long history of religious tolerance, is a beloved destination of many travelers due to its historic landmarks, cobblestone streets, booming food scene, and Southern charm.

Foodie couples will be in heaven: The culinary capital of the South boasts a myriad of standout spots and immersive experiences. Don't miss oysters at King Street's seafood stunner, The Ordinary , spicy fried chicken at Leon's Oyster Shop , and Texas-style brisket at Lewis Barbecue , just to name a few. For a post-dinner classic cocktail, belly up to The Bar & Patio at Husk . Fancy some bubbly? Check out the Champagne bar Camellias at Hotel Bennett.

Opt for a stay at the French Quarter Inn , a boutique gem in the heart of the historic district. At the end of a jam-packed (and no doubt delicious) day, the hotel's top-notch turndown service with a "pillow menu" — featuring seven different comfy options for resting your head — will ensure the sweetest dreams.

Palm Springs, California

Glamorized as Old Hollywood's vacation destination of choice, Palm Springs is still as hip as it was in Frank Sinatra's day. The desert oasis entices travelers with stylish resorts, world-class restaurants, and majestic desert views. It's a haven for hikers, adventure seekers, and golfers — with more than 100 courses in the area.

Try a backcountry Jeep tour through the San Andreas Fault Zone or make a trip to Joshua Tree National Park , about an hour's drive away. Looking to unwind? Soak in the natural healing waters at Desert Hot Springs or head to one of the area's many day spas for a hot-stone couples massage. Palm Springs also has a foodie scene, and many of the city's finest establishments offer patio dining under the stars.

For a relaxing stay, book a suite at The Ritz-Carlton, Rancho Mirage . With everything from clifftop dining to a luxe spa surrounded by the beautiful Santa Rosa Mountains, you won't have to leave the grounds to have an unforgettable weekend. There's postcard-worthy scenery in every direction, and we recommend taking it all in from a cabana at the pool while sipping an Arnold Palmer. The golf legend debuted the now-famous iced tea-lemonade drink in Palm Springs in the late '60s.

Watch Hill, Rhode Island

Just a short drive from many locations in the northeast, Watch Hill is an idyllic place to visit year-round. For an intimate stay, hightail it to Ocean House , a grand 1868 Victorian oceanfront beauty and the crown jewel of the New England town. Couples can enjoy long walks on the private white-sand beach and canoodling in front of the stately stone fireplace, cocktail in hand. There's a farm-to-table restaurant on site, plus a prestigious cooking school offering guests gourmet classes and intimate tastings.

Providenciales, Turks and Caicos

Turks and Caicos is one of the Caribbean's best destinations for a romantic retreat. These easy-to-access islands — flights are under two hours from Miami and under four from New York — will have couples in paradise in no time.

For a dreamy place to call home for a few days, settle in at The Shore Club . The first resort on beautiful Long Bay Beach — the most private stretch of sand on the island of Providenciales — offers seclusion and modern amenities. Start your day on a paddle board over dazzling turquoise waters, lap up some much-needed R&R at four cabana-lined pools, and cap off your night with fresh seafood at SUI-REN, the resort's Japanese-Peruvian restaurant.

In between lounging on the white-sand beach, couples can enjoy watersports like stand-up paddleboarding or indulge in a stress-relieving spa treatment. And don't miss downtown Grace Bay, a hub for eateries, bars, shopping, and nightlife. There's so much on offer to refuel the spark in any relationship.

Montreal, Canada

If you're seeking a European-esque destination without the transatlantic flight, head to Montreal. This sophisticated Canadian metropolis is rich with history, centuries-old architecture, and bustling French bistros.

Most tourists shy away from Montreal until spring, so those who enjoy a winter wonderland vibe can delight in a quieter visit full of cold-weather charms, like ice skating at Parc La Fontaine , dogsledding in Mont Tremblant , and guided nighttime snowshoeing on Mont Royal complete with beautiful views of the city lights. Travelers can then warm up with hot chocolate by a roaring fire at one of Old Montreal's cushy hotels.

After checking out the vibrant downtown scene, couples can treat themselves to an indulgent massage or facial at The Ritz-Carlton's luxurious Spa St. James or enjoy cocktails and tapas at the W Montreal's Living Room . The sexy space and its relaxed vibe will set the mood for romance.

Walland, Tennessee

Blackberry Mountain

Take your love of adventure to new heights with a luxurious mountain retreat. Blackberry Mountain , a Relais & Châteaux resort nestled among 5,200 wondrous acres in the Great Smoky Mountains, is the perfect place to get cozy with your other half.

This rustic sanctuary balances a peaceful environment with active and wellness offerings. Outdoorsy couples can revel in everything from hiking, mountain biking, and candlelight yoga to relaxing forest baths, woodland meditation, and restorative spa treatments. After nourishing your mind and body, feed your soul at three one-of-a-kind restaurants that showcase Blackberry Farm's celebrated hospitality and culinary program.

Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands

The largest of the three Cayman Islands is the ultimate sanctuary for couples looking for a Caribbean beach oasis — at any pace. With warm, dry weather and fewer crowds than during the height of winter, early spring is an ideal time to visit Grand Cayman and its world-renowned Seven Mile Beach.

A range of water sports invites epic adventures surrounded by the island's sparkling waters. You can kayak through lush, tropical mangroves or charter a catamaran to Rum Point on the north coast. Want to indulge in some rest and relaxation with your beloved? Sun-drenched afternoons spent lounging on beaches or entwined in a hammock will do the trick.

Grand Cayman's spectacular sunsets are a quintessential backdrop for passionate evenings. Catch magical views of the fiery spectacle at Kimpton Seafire Resort + Spa , followed by an exceptional dinner experience at Avecita with a custom chefs' counter tasting of seasonal, wood-fired fare that's unique to the Caribbean. Pro tip: snag a reservation in advance — there are only 10 seats and just one seating per night.

Paso Robles, California

Uncork that lovin' feeling with a getaway to California's third-largest wine region (following more famous territories, Napa and Sonoma). A vast rolling countryside specked with vineyards, olive groves, farms, and ranches is nestled halfway between Los Angeles and San Francisco along the state's central coast.

With its natural beauty and laid-back vibe, Paso Robles is a perfect stop for a relaxing long weekend. Sip your way through cabernet sauvignon, zinfandel, merlot, and more at over 200 wineries. Many tastings occur in sun-drenched outdoor spaces with breathtaking vistas, creating a next-level experience. Visitors tend to fall in love with Paso's chill ambiance, and lodging is typically more affordable than in California's more well-known wine regions.

If you get wined out — as if that happens — you can switch it up by sampling local olive oils, touring a craft brewery, or taking a dip in a hot spring. Downtown, you'll find interesting boutiques and great eateries. Stop by The General Store for honey, olive oil, soaps, and handmade goods from area producers to bring home.

New Paltz, New York

Looking for a place that's a short drive from New York City but feels worlds away? Reserve a room at Mohonk Mountain House . Family-owned and -operated since 1869, this Victorian resort is perched on the banks of crystal-blue Lake Mohonk in New Paltz .

The grand, castle-like property offers couples an award-winning spa, farm-to-table cuisine, and a range of daily outdoor activities. In winter, you can go snowshoeing or cross-country skiing on groomed trails and ice skating on the private pavilion. Warmer months bring horseback riding, canoeing, and hiking in the surrounding Shawangunk Ridge.

Leisurely, romantic days are also welcome: Sip hot chocolate and snuggle up by one of the stone fireplaces, soak in the outdoor heated mineral pool, or watch the sunset from rocking chairs on the porch. Being with your sweetheart, surrounded by pristine mountain wilderness, is enough to make you fall in love all over again.

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2 Days in Boston: The Ultimate Weekend in Boston Itinerary

We adore Boston, and I love writing detailed travel itineraries–so you’d think this 2 days in Boston itinerary would have been fairly easy to write, right?

As it turns out, a full summer of living in and exploring Boston in-depth with the intention of blogging about it resulted in having more favorite things to do in Boston than can be squeezed into a 2 day Boston itinerary–but lots of research and writing later, I managed to whittle down the best of Boston into a 48 hour Boston itinerary.

And, that surprisingly consequential summer led to another reason to return to Boston again and again: my Dad met my fabulous now-stepmom during that visit (hi, Christine!), and with 30 years of living in Boston under her belt, she has brought Boston and New England as a whole into our lives forever (and yes, she has provided many tidbits to help us enhance this Boston itinerary even further).

Some links in this post may be affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Please see our disclosure policy for more detail.

From someone who spent 3 months living there and fell head-over-heels for the city despite assuming that wouldn’t happen, here is everything we recommend you do–plus all the logistics you need to know–to pull off the perfect 2 days in Boston.

Delicious food, literary interests, American history, pretty neighborhoods, penguins, and more can all be covered with just 2 days in Boston–but fair warning, your feet might be a bit sore at the end!

Table of Contents

The Ultimate 2 Day Boston Itinerary

But what about walking the freedom trail, don’t want to walk consider a duck tour., where to stay in boston, the boston go card: worth the money, have more than 2 days in boston, ma, where to eat in boston, getting around during a weekend in boston, read more about visiting new england (and beyond).

Day 1 in Boston Itinerary : Back Bay, Beacon Hill, and Beyond

Start your morning in the boston public garden..

The Boston Public Garden is one of our favorite places in the city: quiet and beautiful, it’s a great place to relax, take a walk, and enjoy a bit of peace and (relative) quiet in the midst of the hustle and bustle of the city.

Be sure to check out the Make Way for Ducklings Statue, put in place for the famous children’s book that features Boston, while you’re there! If you’d like to enjoy views of the Boston Public Garden from the water, the swan paddle boats in the garden’s pond are famously inexpensive at $4.50/ride.

Head to Back Bay for brunch and beautiful houses.

Back Bay is one of Boston’s trendiest addresses: here is where you’ll find stunning mansions, high-end shopping, and the occasional burst of surprising quirkiness (like The Fairy Shop , which features oodles of Harry Potter memorabilia and makes my inner eleven-year-old quake with joy).

Here are a few of the best places to check out as you explore Back Bay on foot!

Commonwealth Avenue

Some of the most fashionable addresses in Boston can be found on Commonwealth Avenue!

S tretching into Back Bay from its endpoint at the Boston Public Garden, don’t miss the chance to walk down this stunning street and gawk at the beautiful homes.

This is a fantastic place to start your explorations of Back Bay.

Trinity Church

One of the most beautiful churches in Boston, this 19th-century church sticks out amongst the more modern feel of Back Bay.

Boston Public Library

In addition to being exquisitely beautiful, bibliophiles across the USA owe a debt of gratitude to the Boston Public Library for its continuing advances forward.

This was the first publicly funded library, the first library to open additional branches, the first to lend books out, and more recently, the first to install free wifi.

In other words, they’re pretty cool (and the reading room is a must-see during 2 days in Boston).

Peruse Brattle Bookshop.

As a book lover, I can’t write a 2 days in Boston itinerary without including the epic Brattle Bookshop !

Dating back to 1825 and specializing in used and rare books, Brattle Bookshop is located just off Boston Common and includes three stories and–my favorite–an outdoor courtyard stuffed to the brim with books.

Even if you don’t make it inside, the courtyard is worth seeing. I t boasts hundreds of inexpensive, used books (perfect for a cheap souvenir!) and enormous murals that climb the courtyard walls.

Stroll through Boston Common and enjoy views of the Massachusetts State House.

Boston Common is the heart and soul of Boston (and it’s definitely the Common, not the Commons, as locals will be quick to tell you).

W ithin a few minutes walk you can be in Beacon Hill, Back Bay, at the Massachusetts State House, at the theatre, shopping at Downtown Crossing (this is where you’ll find all the standard chain stores), or exploring a piece of American history.

The park is gorgeous to walk through, too. Be sure to stop by the carousel, take in the views of the gold-domed Massachusetts State House while you’re there , and count how many impeccably groomed golden retrievers you pass (it will be a lot) while you’re there!

Pay a visit to Beacon Hill.

Beacon Hill is my favorite neighborhood to explore in Boston.

This is the Boston you see on postcards: redbrick mansions, black shutters, a cobblestone path or two, tree-lined streets.

It is absolutely stunning to wander through–we recommend walking from Boston Common up to Louisburg Square, which boasts some of the most prestigious addresses in Boston (former Secretary of State John Kerry lives here), and then taking a quick stroll to Acorn Street to take advantage of one of Boston’s most photogenic spots.

Keep in mind that Acorn Street is very popular these days! Make sure to be respectful of people’s property (some residents have complained about visitors using their stoops–best to stick to the cobblestones).

Visit Park Street Church and Granary Burying Ground.

After enjoying a bit of time in Beacon Hill, head back down to Boston Common and pay a visit to the Park Street Church and Granary Burying Ground, which are right next door to the Common.

You’ll notice a large monument with a very familiar name in Granary Burying Ground: Benjamin Franklin’s parents are buried here, and a monument to the family is erected toward the center of the cemetery.

Stop by the King’s Chapel & Burying Ground.

The King’s Chapel is my favorite church in Boston to go inside–not because it is ornate, but because it is so unusual among US churches.

Built originally as an Anglican Church in the 18th century, the church has enclosed “boxes” instead of rows of pews.

Originally, prominent families who were members of the church would have a box of their own that they would sit in each Sunday.

The King’s Chapel still has an active congregation–but these days, instead of Anglicans, Unitarians call the chapel home.

Eat the original Boston Creme Pie at Omni Parker House.

Think you need to make a reservation and sit down to a meal to eat the original Boston Creme Pie?

You definitely don’t!

The Omni Parker House has a small shop on the first floor selling the delicious cakes, and we recommend stopping to pick one up.

If you want to also try the original Parker House rolls (which are, in fact, delicious), consider planning a meal–home to one of Boston’s many historic restaurants –at the Omni Parker House as well.

And, while we’ll talk more about hotels later, suffice it to say that if you’re looking for a luxurious, historic, and centrally-located place to stay in Boston, the Omni Parker House is a great choice .

Take a peek at the Old Corner Bookstore.

The former home of Anne Hutchinson has acted as a bookstore, apothecary, home, Boston Globe souvenir shop, diamond store, and now a Chipotle: talk about evolution!

The building is still worth a nod as you go by, though, and also happens to be set right across from the Irish Famine Memorial–a striking statue worth taking a look at during your 2 days in Boston.

Pay a visit to the Old State House and the site of the Boston Massacre.

As you wander your way through Boston on your way to the Old State House, be sure to note the Old South Meeting House along the way!

The Old State House and the site of the Boston Massacre that is right out front is the perfect final sightseeing stop on your first day in Boston.

As the oldest surviving public building in Boston, the Old State House has seen more than its fair share of American history: it was once the seat of the colonial government, then became the seat of the Massachusetts state government and eventually Boston City Hall.

The Old State House has been a museum since the 19th century, after more than 100 years in public service and a brief stint as a commercial building.

Day 2 in Boston Itinerary : Marketplace District, the North End, and the Waterfront

Begin in the marketplace district..

The marketplace district is all about the food, so come hungry and ready to explore as you start the second day of your Boston itinerary (just ignore the hideous city hall that’s across the street).

Here are the essential stops to make when visiting Boston’s marketplace district!

Boston Public Market

Looking for some New England specialties, whether to devour immediately or to take home?

Boston Public Market is the perfect spot for that: featuring exclusively New England-based products and companies, you can pick up anything from produce to donuts to crafts here.

This is one of my favorite spots in Boston–and not just because of how good the ice cream is!

If you’re lucky enough to have your 2 days in Boston overlap with a Friday or Saturday, be sure to swing by Haymarket (located right in front of the Boston Public Market) to check out a fabulous farmer’s market!

Faneuil Hall Marketplace

Made up of closely located Faneuil Hall, Quincy Market, South Market, and North Market, this is the heart of Boston’s historic market district–and also one of the most touristy places in the USA.

While we definitely feel it’s worth stopping by during your 2 days in Boston to appreciate the markets and the history behind them (Faneuil Hall dates back to the 18th century), unless crowds, chain stores, and overpriced food are your thing, you won’t need to stick around long.

Stop by the New England Holocaust Memorial.

Right in between the Boston Public Market/Haymarket area and the Faneuil Hall Marketplace sits the sobering New England Holocaust Memorial.

It takes very little time to walk through–no line, no entrance fee–but it is worth taking a moment to slow down and appreciate it.

Head into the North End.

Boston’s North End (also known as “Little Italy”, though you won’t catch a local calling it that) is the oldest neighborhood in Boston and a fascinating sort of place.

It’s one of the oldest parts of Boston, and is famous for being a neighborhood popular with Italian immigrants, though there are more tourists than Italians there these days.

It’s home to tons of Italian food (from the very good to the very bad), beautiful architecture, several noteworthy spots in American history, and a couple of very famous pastry shops.

Paul Revere House

The oldest remaining building in downtown Boston once belonged to none other than Paul Revere!

Whether you head inside for a tour or simply admire the facade as you walk by during your 2 days in Boston, be sure to note this piece of American history sitting in the North End.

Old North Church

And speaking of Paul Revere…

The whole “one if by land, two if by sea” story? That lantern was said to have been hung here, at the Old North Church.

(Modern note: there is a popular scam around the world that consists of fake monks collecting money–and they have a big presence right here. Best not to engage with them!).

Copp’s Hill Burying Ground and the Spite House

Boston’s second-oldest cemetery holds more than 1200 marked graves that include plenty of notable burials from the colonial era… but that’s not the only reason to visit.

Right across from Copp’s Hill Burying Ground sits the Spite House (also known as the Skinny House), which is home to one of my favorite Boston stories.

As the story goes, two brothers inherited land from their father. While one was away serving in the American Civil War, the other brother built a large home, taking over part of the soldier’s inheritance.

When the soldier returned home, he built the “Spite House”–incredibly skinny, and yet incredibly effective at blocking his brother’s view.

The legitimacy of the story is somewhat questionable, but it sure is a classic Boston tale.

Mike’s Pastry and/or Modern Pastry

If you’ve heard one thing about eating cannoli in the North End, it’s probably about how delicious Mike’s Pastry is.

If you’ve heard two things, it’s probably that Modern Pastry is better and more “unknown”.

Here’s what we can tell you firsthand: Modern Pastry is tasty, and the line at Mike’s Pastry was always too long for us to bother with (though we’ve heard from others it dies down sometimes–if you visit in the offseason, you might get lucky!).

And, if you are looking for a fantastic interior and an atmosphere that feels slightly like actually being in Italy, Caffé Vittoria is an even better option, though I’d have to do a back-to-back comparison to offer an opinion on the pastries (all of these places have tasty treats, though).

Regardless of where you choose to get one, we certainly recommend eating a cannoli or two during your 2 days in Boston.

Take a whale-watching cruise or visit the penguins at the New England Aquarium.

It doesn’t get more classic New England than a whale-watching cruise!

While the cruises require a bit of a time commitment (3-4 hours), if you’re hoping to hit the water during your weekend in Boston, a whale-watching cruise like this is an incredibly memorable option.

Of course, like all attractions involving animals in the wild, there’s no guarantee regarding how many whales you’ll see–but so many whales call Boston home that your odds are much better here than in many popular whale-watching ports around the world, to the point that many captains even guarantee at least one sighting during a trip.

Book your whale-watching cruise in Boston today!

Prefer to stay on dry land, or visiting Boston in the dead of winter when whale cruises aren’t available? If so, the New England Aquarium is one of the best aquariums we have ever been to.

T here’s a huge emphasis on conservation, the exhibits are striking and education-focused, and the aquarium’s location on the harbor means that it is even able to use the natural seawater for some of its exhibits!

Though the five-story ocean tank, complete with an ancient sea turtle named Myrtle, is incredible, the real showstopper for us is the penguins.

We adore penguins, and the New England Aquarium is home to several species.

If you want to see something truly adorable, visit the aquarium at 9:00 AM or 2:30 PM–aka penguin feeding time.

Want to avoid waiting? Purchase a  skip-the-line aquarium ticket  before you get there!

Take a stroll along the Harborwalk.

At around 43 miles long, you definitely won’t see even a quarter of the Harborwalk with only 2 days in Boston–but this continuous trail along Boston’s coastline is definitely worth checking out for a little bit.

Luckily, the New England Aquarium is located right on it, making it easy to go for a walk before or after your visit.

Enjoy the sunset from the water with a harbor cruise and/or dinner in the North End.

The perfect end to a 2 day Boston trip isn’t in Boston at all–it’s in the water, staring back at the city that boasts one of my favorite skylines in the world.

If you didn’t already take a whale-watching cruise, we recommend taking a harbor cruise around sunset to enjoy the end of the day.

C ruises are available at literally all price points, from a basic group cruise in a shared boat to a memorable cruise on a tall ship and beyond.

For a less expensive harbor cruise,  this sunset cruise  is a great option!

Had enough of the water for today–or want to enjoy a fabulous dinner after the boat ride?

If so, consider saying goodbye to Boston with a fabulous Italian-American dinner in the North End.

Like many iconic neighborhoods around the world, you’ll find a mix of mediocre-to-terrible tourist traps and delicious restaurants here, so it’s imperative to check reviews before sitting down!

We have loved our experiences at both  Ristorante Euno  and  Tresca  (pictured below: everything was delicious, but their house special of chicken parm made with vodka sauce was a standout!).

If you know one thing about what to do in Boston, it’s probably the Freedom Trail.

T he famous 2.5-mile trail covers 16 historical sights related to American history in Boston and is easily one of the most popular things to do in the city.

So don’t worry–it’s definitely on the list!

In fact, 14 of the 16 sights on the Freedom Trail are covered in this 2 days in Boston itinerary, including Boston Common, Park Street Church, King’s Chapel, Faneuil Hall, every historical sight I discuss in the North End, and more.

If you follow this itinerary during your weekend in Boston, you’ll spend quite a bit of time walking the Freedom Trail, and you’ll have tons of opportunities to check out the brick markings that denote where it leads!

Rather than simply list something so vague and malleable on our 2 days in Boston itinerary, though, we wanted to be sure to give specific suggestions.

A fter all, the trail can be seen in any order and doesn’t need to be done all at once .

Cheesy? Yes.

Entertaining? Absolutely.

Boston’s Duck Tours are famous for the unmistakable truck-slash-boat contraptions that they cart tourists around in by both land and sea.

Corniness aside, if you’re looking for an excellent way to get an overview of Boston’s most famous sights and history without too much walking, signing up for a Duck Tour might be the right choice for you!

The tours do sell out, especially in the summer, so be sure to book in advance if you want to make a Duck Tour part of your 2 days in Boston itinerary!

Book your Boston Duck Tour today!

With only 2 days in Boston, we recommend staying somewhere close to the T (aka Boston’s subway) that is near the center of the action.

The North End is a tempting option, but it is fairly difficult to get in and out of. Instead, we’d recommend staying somewhere in Back Bay or the Historic Downtown if possible. The Theatre District (near Downtown Crossing and Chinatown) is another solid option with a great central location.

If budget is an issue, you may need to go a bit further out. That’s not a problem–just make sure you’re within walking distance of a T stop!

For budget travelers not willing to sacrifice on location,  the HI Boston Hostel  is a great option.

Mid-range travelers will love the location (and breakfast) at  the Boston Park Plaza .

Want access to a kitchenette in your room?  Copley House  features some studios and apartments!

For travelers looking to splurge, the  Boston Omni Parker House Hotel  has it all: history, a prime location on the Freedom Trail, plenty of ambiance, and of course, the original Parker House rolls and Boston cream pie served right on-site.

Check rates & book your stay in Boston today!

The Boston Go Card is promoted as an all-access pass, allowing you to buy included and/or discounted tickets to dozens of Boston attractions at once.

With this 2 days in Boston itinerary, you won’t need it: the 2-day pass won’t allow you to break even or get ahead with the attractions we opted to include here (after all, so much of Boston is about exploring outside, on foot–which is free).

However, if you’re staying in Boston longer, or you are interested in participating in a Hop On/Hop Off trolley tour , completing a Fenway Park tour, visiting View Boston on top of the Prudential Tower (the new version of the old Skywalk Observatory), or visiting several museums, then the Boston Go Card is probably the right option for you.

Find out more about the Boston Go Card and see if it’s right for you!

Boston is full of things to do: even after 3 months in the city, plus return trips, we still have a list of unchecked Boston bucket list items longer than we would like.

If you’re lucky enough to have more than 2 days in Boston, consider visiting Revere Beach (it’s the oldest public beach in the USA!), touring the Samuel Adams Brewery, attending a Boston Red Sox game (or just touring Fenway Park, the oldest baseball stadium in the USA), taking a walk along the Charles River Esplanade, or heading out a bit farther along the Freedom Trail to take in the two remaining sights not covered on this itinerary, the USS Constitution and the Bunker Hill Memorial.

If you’re a museum fan, Boston has enough to keep you occupied for months: for example, the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum is built in the form of a Venetian palace, holds gorgeous artwork, and is the victim of a heist .

For science lovers, the home of MIT and Harvard has you covered: the Boston Science Museum and MIT Museum are both worthy of a visit.

With time to plan in advance, consider going stargazing at the Coit Observatory.

If you’re visiting in the summer, a visit to the Harbor Islands is always a good idea for nature lovers .

Looking for day trip ideas? Salem, Rockport, Newport, Concord, and Lexington are all popular for good reason, and less-iconic but gorgeous New England beach towns like Hingham, Cohasset, and Hull offer less-crowded and more easily accessible day trip options than the Cape.

I could keep going forever, but suffice it to say: you can do a lot with only 2 days in Boston, but you can’t do it all!

We are far from experts on Boston cuisine, but we have had some truly stellar meals in Boston. .. and also asked my stepmom to help us round this section out a bit.

Here are some delicious restaurants that can easily fit into your 2 days in Boston itinerary!

Buttermilk & Bourbon — Commonwealth Avenue (Back Bay)

I love biscuits.

More than that, I love southern biscuits, and I’ve been eating them all my life, in North Carolina and beyond.

So when I say that Buttermilk & Bourbon serves southern-style biscuits so delicious that I still think of them fondly a year later, I really mean it.

All of the food we had was incredible, and we can’t recommend their brunch enough (and I assume lunch and dinner are fabulous as well).

Neptune Oyster — Salem Street #1 (North End)

I’m not a huge oyster fan, but Jeremy sure enjoyed these (and the lobster roll he happily consumed after downing the oysters).

A friend of ours took us here when she came to visit us in Boston, touting it as one of her favorite restaurants–and judging by the fact that she looked to be having almost a religious experience the entire time she was eating their oysters, it’s a well-earned spot on her list.

As the resident non-oyster eater, I can attest that their burger was delicious.

Ristorante Euno — Salem Street (North End)

Many Italian restaurants in the North End are duds.

Ristorante Euno is not one of them–in fact, this is the only restaurant in the USA we have eaten in that even begins to approximate having dinner in Italy.

We ate here with a big group and had the opportunity to taste everything from several kinds of pasta to veal to steak to we-stopped-counting-at-some-point amounts of wine, and it was all delicious.

Tresca — Hanover Street (North End)

I mentioned this restaurant above as well, but it’s worth repeating!

Offering a more modern twist on Italian food, Tresca draws inspiration from Tuscany in particular (though is solidly Italian American food, not traditional Italian).

The food, service, and ambiance were all excellent, and you can’t go wrong ordering the chicken parm with the house vodka sauce!

Tatte Bakery and Cafe — Charles Street (Beacon Hill)

Tatte Bakery & Cafe has several locations around Boston (and they’ve even expanded to the DC area since we first ate there), but the Beacon Hill location is easy to reach as part of your 2 days in Boston itinerary!

Home to delicious sweets, tasty sandwiches (I had a brie and prosciutto sandwich that was incredible), and pastries that look too beautiful to eat, Tatte Bakery is a great place for a snack or quick lunch while you’re running around trying to see Boston in 2 days.

Bell in Hand Tavern — Union Street (Marketplace District)

America’s oldest tavern has been pouring ale since 1795, so you’d assume that puts them at risk of being gimmicky with mediocre food, but nope!

We never had a bad dish at Bell in Hand Tavern, and their burgers are incredible.

If you’re hungry while in the marketplace district, this is the stop for you!

Union Oyster House — Union Street (Marketplace District)

Right across the street from America’s oldest tavern sits America’s oldest restaurant, which has been serving up seafood (and especially New England chowder) since 1826.

We didn’t eat here personally, and reviews are mixed–some say the food is excellent, some say it is just okay. Most agree that you’re paying a bit more to eat at a historical location, which is not surprising.

Regardless of the ups and downs, though, I couldn’t bear to leave it off–even if you just snap a photo of the exterior as you walk by on the Freedom Trail, it’s worth being aware of this landmark during your 2 days in Boston.

La Voile — Newbury Street (Back Bay)

Looking for delicious French food served in a beautiful setting?

If so, head to Back Bay to indulge at La Voile, where you can either order a la carte or opt for the nightly 3-course prix fixe menu.

You can enjoy your meal either indoors or outdoors, weather permitting, though you may want to make a reservation if you have a preference!

Parker’s Restaurant at Omni Parker House — School Street (Historic Downtown)

I’ll admit: the main dishes here were good-not-great for the prices they charge… but gorging ourselves on the original (and delicious) Parker House Rolls and Boston Cream Pie made us glad we experienced the food once.

If you want to try out Parker’s House, we recommend going for lunch or brunch to keep costs down a bit.

Dunkin’ Donuts — Literally Everywhere

… Or is that just “Dunkin'” now?

Okay, this is (mostly) on here as a joke–but okay donuts and subpar coffee aside, there’s no denying that grabbing a coffee at Dunkin’ is a true Boston cultural experience.

Boston is consistently rated as one of the most walkable cities in the USA and is also home to one of the densest public transportation networks in the country.

During our 3 months in Boston, we relied exclusively on the subway, the occasional bus, and our feet to get around the city, and we recommend you do the same during your 2 days in Boston.

There are two ways to buy tickets to the T, aka the subway/metro system: with a CharlieCard or CharlieTicket (which are free and reloadable), and individually.

The CharlieCards can be picked up from any attendant in the subway stations, but they aren’t always available.

While they can making paying for the T simpler, with only 2 days in Boston, I wouldn’t worry too much about getting one.

Bonus piece of history: if you ride the Green Line of Boston’s metro system, specifically between Park Street and Boylston, you’ll be riding on one of the oldest metros in the world (and arguably the oldest one in the USA).

Excited to hit the road soon and ready to keep planning your trip?

You can browse our 100+ blog posts about traveling in the USA here , or check out these guides:

• 55 Best Things to Do in Boston (+ Travel Tips!)
• 21+ Best Places to Visit in November in the USA (Fall Vacation Ideas!)
• 15 Wicked Fun Quotes About Boston
• USA Bucket List: 50 Best Places to Visit in the US
• 13 Epic East Coast Cities for Weekend Getaways

About Kate Storm

In May 2016, I left my suburban life in the USA and became a full-time traveler. Since then, I have visited 50+ countries on 5 continents and lived in Portugal, developing a special love of traveling in Europe (especially Italy) along the way. Today, along with my husband Jeremy and dog Ranger, I’m working toward my eventual goal of splitting my life between Europe and the USA.

31 thoughts on “2 Days in Boston: The Ultimate Weekend in Boston Itinerary”

I’ve never been to Boston before but I would love to see Beacon Hill in person. It looks beautiful from the photos in your post. I also have a slight obsession with Boston Creme Pies so that’s a must try as well lol

Haha, yes, it definitely is! There are SO MANY amazing Boston Creme Pies in Boston… including in Beacon Hill! ;-)

Thank you so much for the time you spent in Boston so I could so easily enjoy the city on a quick stop. Your writing is engaging and your personal insights and recommendations so valuable. I have saved your site for future trips.

Thanks so much, Connie! We appreciate you reading. :-)

Hi! Great Itinerary! I’m heading to Boston this Friday for a week and I’m super excited to check out these places :)

Thanks so much, Evelyn!

Hope you have an amazing time during your trip to Boston! :-)

loved your page with all its information. I have a question : we are going to be staying at the North End soon at Battery Wharf , what is the fastest way to Salem ? I have heard there is a train from the North End straight to Salem. But I am really confused. Can you tell me your opinion ? I have copied your page and will use it for my trip. Thanks

Hi Kathy! Thanks for reading. :-)

Yes, a train runs from North Station (which is essentially right next door to the North End, it’s a quick walk away) directly to Salem. It’s a commuter rail, so very dependable and easy to use. We visited Salem that way personally and had no issues–it takes a little over half an hour to get there if I remember correctly.

Brilliantly written. Unfortunately not many of the pique my interest. Definitely worth the read and also learn a few things. Love it!

Thank you for this 2-day itinerary! We are looking forward to our time in Boston, and this will help us make the most of our short time there.

So glad we could help, Regina! Have a great time in Boston. :-)

Hi! Thanks for the info. Invaluable! Question. Can this be done easily on bikes or at least the harbor walk? Do you think we could fit in a Sam Adams tour in? What would you cut out?

So glad you found it helpful, Milissa! Yes, the Harborwalk is also a bike path, you can definitely ride there.

You can definitely rearrange things to fit a Sam Adams tour in! As for what to cut, it’s completely up to what you guys most prefer–I adored the penguins, for example, but some people wouldn’t care about the aquarium at all.

Some of the sites, such as Faneuil Hall or the Boston Common, can take anywhere from a few minutes to get a quick look at to an hour or more of perusing it in detail, so there’s a lot of flexibility with timing built in depending on your tastes.

Beacon hill is a tough pedal up, otherwise biking is fairly easy, although bike lanes are inconsistent.

I’d personally prioritize the uss constitution. It’s a free tour and think they are going below decks again as they weren’t for a while during covid.

Sam Adams is a good tour, but I might recommend harpoon instead. It’s closer, is almost as old, and is still local.

Hi, My husband & I will be in Boston in October for two days and I love this itinerary! Great job! So we’ll written! Thank you for sharing! One question… we will have a rental car and driving from Freeport, Maine. What is the best place to stay, B&B preferably, so that we can just walk from our B&B to all of these sites… and just leave our car at our B&B. Is that possible? We plan on driving to Plymouth and onto Rhode Island and then Connecticut after our time in Boston. Thank you for your help and suggestions, Pam

Thanks so much, Pam!

I’m not familiar with any BNBs off the top of my head that would meet both of those needs–generally, if you’re staying close enough into town to be within walking distance of the sights, small BNBs will have limited or no parking available.

I’d recommend plugging your requirements into your preferred hotel booking site (we use Booking dot com), including parking as a requirement, and seeing if anything pops up in a central neighborhood.

That being said, you can also park (paid, but convenient) in the garage under the Boston Common, which is very convenient for sightseeing!

Great post! Just what I was looking for. Real advice from a real person. Thanks for all of the great tips and restaurant suggestions.

Thanks so much, Andrea! Hope you guys love Boston as much as we do!

I love your post. Me and my husband will use your itinerary this weekend. Please give us suggestions of the hotels we can stay. We will be driving from Hanover NH and plan to park the car in the hotel, and we will just walk to all the places you mentioned for 2 days. Please let me know of your hotel suggestions. Thank you so much for your help.

Hi Susan! We have a few hotel recommendations in the post, after the itinerary section.:-)

Great review of my beloved city!!! But… I’m not sure how you could focus on Back Bay and not mention Newbury Street–filled with some of Boston’s best shopping and restaurants. Also, since I am a local, we would never refer to the T (formally known as the MBTA) as a metro. Honestly, if you said “metro” to any Bostonian, we wouldn’t know what you were talking about. Lol. Thank you for appreciating all the beauty Boston has to offer!!

Thanks so much, Patty! I hadn’t realized we didn’t mention Newbury Street in this post–it’s in our things to do in Boston post, though. :-) Beautiful street, I love it there!

Great 2 days itinerary!Really useful tips and informative content about boston.Thanks for sharing.

Hi Kate – loved the write up! We came to Boston in 2010 and fell in love with the town – and hence, have stayed on. If you ever edit the article – do please consider adding two great experiences: (1) that the Boston Library has one of the finest “afternoon tea” experiences in the world but has to be booked 4+ months in advance and 2) the nearby towns of Lexington (I live here) and Concord still have a ton of historical sites and ceremonies connected to the first revolutionary war… and are just 20-25 Min away at most from Boston Backbay.

I’ve had the Boston Library tea on my bucket list for years! One of my friends got to do it and raved about it. :-) Maybe next time!

This article and guide has been fabulous. My cousin and I are planning our first trip to Boston. It will be short, two and half days, prior to boarding a cruise ship. I cannot thank you enough for making it easy to map out, for the recommendations of places to eat and stay and for the history and photos. We want to make sure and hit all the highlights and to see the real Boston. This covers it all. Over the top great and I am so very thankful!!!

It makes my day to hear that, Sharon! Hope you and your cousin have a fantastic couple of days in Boston! :-)

Thank you for this post! My husband and I will be first-timers in Boston in October (14-18), and I was wondering if there are any fall specific activities/sights you’d recommend?

The main thing will simply be to appreciate the foliage, which you should definitely see! I’d plan to spend extra time in the parks, burying grounds, etc, as they’ll all be decked out in color.

If you have a chance to take a day trip outside of Boston, apple-picking (and apple-cider-donut eating) is a classic fall activity with plenty of options close to Boston. :-)

Salem is ridiculously crowded in October, of course, but it’s also an easy day trip from Boston, and arguably there’s no better time to visit than October! The whole town goes all-in on spooky season.

Thanks so much for this information! We will be traveling with my parents, and will have a couple of days in Boston. Mom gets around fine, but occasionally has trouble with her knees. Would you recommend a hop on/hop off bus or the duck tour instead of walking? I’m wondering about steep hills, and stairs – things of that nature. I am just asking for a general idea – I realize you have no way to assess someone’s abilities, lol! Your blog post will be a great help!

So glad you’ve found it helpful!

Much of the route is fairly flat, but Beacon Hill in particular has very steep sections–I’d be on the lookout for that.

A hop on/hop off tour might be a great compromise between going alone versus a fully scheduled option like a duck tour, as you can walk as much as makes sense but also always have another stop fairly close by. That way, you don’t have to commit to an enormous amount of walking at one time if energy starts to wane.

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The Ultimate 3 Days in New York City Itinerary (2024 Guide)

• Last Updated: September 10, 2024

If you’re looking for the perfect 3 days in New York City itinerary to make the most of your first time in the Big Apple, then this is the one for you!

The Big Apple, the city that never sleeps, the capital of the world – No matter how you’ve heard it called, there’s no denying that New York City is one of the most vibrant and fascinating cities on the planet.

Visiting this cosmopolitan metropolis has been a lifetime goal for millions of people around the world. With the bright lights of Times Square, the freedom the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island represent and the human element of everybody trying to make it big here on Hollywood movies and TV screens for decades.

There’s something incredible about exploring New York City’s many neighbourhoods, districts, and attractions that you won’t find anywhere else in the United States, or in most cities around the world.

Table of Contents

One World Observatory

9/11 memorial museum, battery park, statue of liberty and ellis island, wall street, cross the brooklyn bridge, brooklyn bridge park, get dinner in dumbo, take a walk on the high line, empire state building, american museum of natural history, metropolitan museum of art, central park, fifth avenue, see a broadway show, times square, little italy, new york city hall, greenwich village, washington square park, madame tussauds, bryant park, st. patrick’s cathedral, rockefeller center, top of the rock, buy a new york citypass, purchase a metrocard, start your days early, walk between places on short distances, best hostel in manhattan – jazz on columbus circle, best mid-range hotel – pod 51 hotel, best luxury hotel in manhattan – hotel giraffe by library collection, the property, what we liked, what we didn’t like, overall impression, how to spend a perfect 3 days in new york city.

Three days in New York City might not be enough to see the entirety of the city – after all, it is enormous – but those 3 days would be just enough to see a lot of its most popular attractions.

Check out our  best tips for travel photography  to help you capture some amazing pictures of New York City on your trip.

The best way to experience the city on your first trip to New York is to explore its attractions in sections, breaking it up area by area. Manhattan is massive with a lot of things to do, so by dedicating your time to particular locations you will end up with the most efficient use of your limited time here.

If you’ve never been to the Big Apple before and are feeling a bit lost on what to see in New York City in 3 days, we recommend buying the New York CityPASS , as it will give you access to some of the most popular things to see in town at heavily discounted rates.

So without further ado, here is our perfect 3 days in New York City itinerary and travel tips to help you get the most out of your first trip to the city that never sleeps.

Day 1 – Morning

After enjoying a delicious New York City breakfast (go either as big or as small as you like), it’s time to jump on the famous New York Subway and head to WTC Cortland Station.

It’s from here that you’ll begin the first activity of your 3-day New York itinerary.

The One World Observatory was officially opened in 2015 as the replacement to the Twin Towers that made up the World Trade Centre, and since then it receives thousands of visitors every single day.

It’s one of the best ways to start your three days in New York because you’ll be observing the city in all its majesty from the 100th, 101st and 102nd stories of the tallest building in the western hemisphere (a dizzying 1776 feet, or 541 metres, high).

Make sure to arrive as early as possible, since this is a very popular attraction and the lines can get pretty long. The wait is worth it though, and on a clear day you’ll have amazing views of the entire city (and beyond).

We recommend purchasing your tickets ahead of time though , so you can get the priority express lane and avoid any queues. Buy them for a discounted price here .

Once you’re done with the One World Observatory, you should head on immediately to the 9/11 Memorial Museum,  which is just around the corner.

This is one of those museums that’s regularly packed with people, so get as early as possible to try and beat the crowds that will undoubtedly form.

The 911 Memorial is a very memorable site, and it feels quite distressing to learn more about the event that completely shook the world. No matter your views, it’s a tragic part of history.

Despite the confronting imagery and stories, you can easily spend hours there, so be sure to take that into account when planning your New York City itinerary.

If you have a personal connection to the tragedy of 9/11, or just want to pay your respects, you might want to set aside an entire morning just for this place.

We’ve been to a lot of museums and memorials around the world, and the 911 Memorial was honestly one of the most well thought out and moving museums we have been to.

Once you’re finished, be sure to check out the 9/11 Memorial Site outside, as it’s also a fascinating attraction in its own right.

The 9/11 Museum is included in your New York CityPASS.

Spending 3 days in New York City without seeing the stunning architectural wonder of The Oculus would be a shame.

It’s a beautiful reimagining and replacement of the previous PATH train station that was destroyed during 9/11, and is only a few steps away from the 911 Memorial and museum site.

This futuristic train station also serves as a shopping mall and plaza, so you’ll surely spend a lot of time looking around.

It’s a great way to wind down before going out to grab a bite to eat and continue on with your exploration of New York City.

Day 1 – Afternoon

After you grab some lunch from one of the many diners around the area (or you can grab a hot dog or something quick on the go from the street vendors), it’s time to continue the sightseeing.

You’re sure to love the afternoon, as you’re going to visit one of the most famous places in the entire city.

Take a short walk to the southernmost part of Manhattan and the famous Battery Park, which is where tour ferries operate to take you to visit Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty.

Battery Park has some amazing views of the waterfront and is a great place to stroll through.

Although it’s a generally relaxing place where many people simply walk around or chill out on the grass, you can also find a few attractions to visit.

There’s the Museum of Jewish Heritage and the Skyscraper Museum, which are great places to see in New York City if they pique your interest.

There are some unique artistic installations in Battery Park too, such as the beautiful sculpture called The Sphere.

Battery Park itself is free to enter, but some of the attractions have entrance fees.

If you’re just walking through Battery Park it will only take you a few minutes, then head down to the ferry dock and get ready to cruise over to the Statue of Liberty.

Visiting the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island will take most of your afternoon, but it’s one of the most satisfying places to see in the city.

The Statue of Liberty is one of those true New York City icons, with the famous ‘Lady Liberty’ representing freedom and opportunity for millions of overseas immigrants throughout the years.

Sent over as a gift to the US from France in the 19th century, the State of Liberty was dedicated on October 28th, 1886 and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

This is a must-do during your New York City itinerary. So get in line and use your New York CityPASS to grab your included ticket.

Everyone that embarks on the ferry to Liberty and Ellis Islands will have to pass through security, which as you can imagine is a very important deal here.

Once you’re on the boat it’s a quick trip over to Liberty Island, where you can jump off to walk around the famous statue, and even climb up to the viewing platform if you’d like.

The next stop is Ellis Island, home to a fascinating museum dedicated to the city’s history of immigration.

Even if you have no intention of going to Liberty Island, you’ll still have to stop there before going to Ellis Island.

This is one of the most popular and must see attractions in the city so be prepared for large crowds. Both Liberty Island and Ellis Island are great experiences, so make sure to give yourself adequate time to explore both of them.

Visiting the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island is included in your CityPASS!

Once you’re back from your great tour to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island it’s time to hit up another major New York City attraction – Wall Street!

You have no doubt heard of Wall Street, as it is the financial hub of the entire US and features in hundreds of Hollywood movies and TV shows.

So what is there to do on Wall Street?

First up spots like the statue of George Washington and the Federal Hall National Monument are pretty interesting sights to check out.

The New York Stock Exchange is another fascinating place to see on Wall Street, so you definitely shouldn’t skip out on it in your 3 days in New York City.

Unfortunately, you can’t enter the Stock Exchange (unless you are a registered stockbroker!), but the building itself is pretty impressive from the outside too.

But the number one thing to do on Wall Street is to get your photo with the famous Charging Bull!

This must see bronze sculpture is extremely popular (arguably one of the most iconic sculptures in the entire city), and you’ll find dozens of excited tourists crowded around trying to get their snap with the bull that represents market optimism.

If you’re feeling peckish at this point there are tonnes of other eateries around Wall Street, so grab a snack to take you into the evening.

Keen to learn more while you’re here? Definitely check out this fantastic tour with a Wall Street insider !

Day 1 – Evening

By now the sun should be getting low on the horizon, and it’s time to go check out New York’s funkier, hipster town away from the island of Manhattan – Brooklyn.

Starting from Wall Street it’s only a short walk to get to the Brooklyn Bridge on the east side of Lower Manhattan. And no NYC itinerary would be complete without walking it.

The pedestrian walkway is a little over a mile long and is kept separate from the zipping cars on your side, so you can wander across safely.

Once you start the walk over the Brooklyn Bridge you’ll probably want to take your time though for two reasons.

First, the crossing is something you’ll probably want to savour for the views. And second, the crowds on the Brooklyn Bridge are likely hectic (plus you’ll have to watch out for cyclists).

Crossing the Brooklyn Bridge is a perfect way to ease into the evening at the end of your first day in New York City.

Once you’ve made it over the Brooklyn Bridge, head to the west and start your exploration of the amazing borough of Brooklyn, which is one of the best places you must see when you visit New York in 3 days.

We’re going to start with walking around Brooklyn Bridge Park, which has been revitalised in recent times and is now one of the trendiest spots in town.

It stretches 85 acres along the Hudson River, on the west side of Brooklyn, and there are constant events happening there.

However as you’re there at night, the best thing to do is simply sit down and enjoy the view, which has some of the best vistas of the New York City skyline.

When you’ve finished taking pictures of the NYC skyline walk back to the other side of the Brooklyn Bridge and check out the cool area of DUMBO.

DUMBO (which stands for Down Under Manhattan Bridge Overpass) is a great neighbourhood to check out, and from here, you’ll have some of the finest views of both the Brooklyn and Manhattan Bridges.

The best thing to do when you are down here is simply walking around and soak in the atmosphere.

This is also the best spot to grab dinner before ending the first awesome day of your 3-day New York City itinerary.

Jump on the Subway to head back to your hotel for a well-deserved rest.

Day 2 – Morning

Make sure you set the alarm early today so you can have a nice breakfast, then continue your adventures in New York City.

We’re going to start the day with a pleasant walk through one of New York’s most surprising and chilled out places – The High Line. To get there take the Subway to 34th Street-Penn Station or 23rd Street Station and walk west.

The High Line is an attraction you wouldn’t want to miss, especially if your goal is to get away from the hustle and bustle New York City is known for a brief while.

This elevated pedestrian walkway is a public park built on what used to be an old freight rail line, and with its high platforms twisting around a small part of Manhattan it’s delightfully peaceful compared to the traffic below.

During the summer months, the High Line turns into a garden oasis of sorts, lined with plenty of gardens and flowers that are maintained by volunteers.

It’s a brilliant way to see a different side of New York City that is loved by locals and tourists alike. The walk won’t take you too long, and 30 minutes should be plenty of time to see most of it.

You can start your walk from a number of different entry points, but we began ours from the Hudson Yards railway area.

Grab a taxi or walk the 1 mile to the Empire State Building for a step back into New York history from atop one of the most famous buildings in the world.

The Empire State Building opens up at 8 am, and we recommend you arrive right around then to beat the crowds, as it’s one of the most popular attractions in New York.

A single hour can mean the entire difference between waiting in a long line or breezing right on in.

The Empire State Building is like the Statue of Liberty, in that it is an emblem that most people instantly associate with New York City, and it features in plenty of postcards and movies of Manhattan.

Use your New York CityPASS to skip the ticket line and head straight through the photo and story gallery, before jumping in an elevator to take you to the observation deck on the 102nd floor.

Gazing at the city under you from atop the Empire State Building observation deck is one of best things to do in New York City in 3 days.

As crazy, hectic and loud as New York City is, there’s a certain feeling of calmness as you’re looking at the sprawling city from way up in the sky.

Besides the views, you’ll also have the chance to learn all about the construction of what was the tallest building in the world when completed in 1931.

The whole experience should take you about an hour if you read all of the information dotted around the place. Don’t forget to climb to the very top of the observation deck for your photos.

Visiting the Empire State Building is included in your CityPASS!

Jump back on the Subway (B Line) and take a ride to the American Museum of Natural History – one of the most important museums in New York City.

This museum is one enormous complex comprised of over two dozen interconnected buildings.

It’s such a giant house of knowledge that even if you dedicate an entire year of your life, you still won’t have time to see everything in it.

The museum holds tens of millions of different items on display, and you’ll find some of the most fascinating bits of human and natural history here.

You’ll learn about Lucy, one of our ancestors from millions of years ago, as well as the Great Blue Whale, the rainforests, and so much more.

This museum is so massive and enthralling, you’ll want to stay for days. Our best recommendation to tackle it is to just pick a handful of exhibits that really interest you and focus on those, as you won’t be able to see everything in just a few hours.

Visiting the American Museum of Natural History is included in your CityPASS!

Day 2 – Afternoon

You can choose to grab lunch in the American Museum of Natural History, from one of the many street vendors scattered around the place, or wait until you wander over to The Met on the east side of Central Park, which is your next stop.

The Metropolitan Museum of Art (commonly referred to as ‘The Met’) is one of the most visited art galleries in the world and housed in a stunning building constructed in 1874.

The Met has over 250,000 works of art on display and it showcases over 5,000 years of art.

Here you’ll find works from Ancient Egypt, the Middle Ages, and even Japan, but also American Art from the 17 th century to the present day.

This museum is a place you can get lost in for hours and you’ll definitely want to go back again in the future to explore it a bit more.

This was honestly one of the best art galleries we have ever visited.

Visiting the Met is included in your CityPASS!

Considered as New York’s backyard, Central Park is absolutely one of the most iconic spots in the entire city.

After spending several hours in the nearby museums, you’ll definitely want to get out into nature and wander around this sprawling, scenic park.

Located right in the centre of Manhattan, in what is obviously prime and expensive real estate, it’s amazing to see that New York has prioritised keeping the city’s loveliest scenery.

From the Strawberry Fields, the Belvedere Castle, to the Zoo, there’s no shortage of things to see in Central Park.

No matter your plans for a trip to the Big Apple, you must see Central Park during your 3 days in New York City.

If you’re into shopping and fashion, then you absolutely need to visit the legendary Fifth Avenue, just across the road from the east side of Central Park.

You’ll find every kind of high-end fashion brand here, from Chanel to Luis Vuitton, and if your budget allows then you’ll probably end up walking away with something that will set you back way more money than you’ll want to think about.

Most tourists spend a lot of time just window-shopping this upper east side destination, as you’ll find some of the finest items in the entirety of New York City without having to spend a dime.

Day 2 – Evening

You’re probably tired after a massive day of sightseeing, but it’s not time to head to bed just yet, because there’s still plenty of amazing things to do on this New York City 3-day itinerary.

Visiting Broadway should be a must for any trip to NYC, and no matter how tired you are, always make sure to check a show if possible.

Here you’ll have some of the most memorable moments from your New York itinerary for 3 days.

However, if you do plan to catch a show, make sure you are well prepared because the best shows sometimes book out months in advance.

If you haven’t had a chance to grab tickets beforehand, or if you don’t have the budget to spend USD$200 for a show, check out the website Broadway for Broke People , where they have ticket lotteries every day.

After your Broadway show, you should definitely head on to Times Square, as it’s the place where New York’s energy truly comes to life.

It is not actually a square, but rather a spot where 7 th Avenue and Broadway intersect and create the surrounding four quarters.

No trip to NYC is complete without visiting Times Square, making it one of the most touristy spots in New York, and the bright lights are the main appeal for people who have constantly seen this place plastered all over TV screens.

You’ll find a lot of street performers working off tips, churches performing gospels, expensive but amazing restaurants, and so much more.

Even if you don’t want to take part in the current of people and energy, you can always sit down and watch the crowds of people.

To be completely honest we really disliked Times Square, as we felt it was just bright commercial lights with far too many advertisements and people around.

However we did a survey on our Instagram to see if anybody else liked the place and almost 50% said they loved Times Square, so head there for yourself and make your own judgment call.

Day 3 – Morning

Today is your last day in New York City and we’re going to spend exploring some of the best neighbourhoods in Manhattan to get a taste of what the city is really like.

If you don’t have breakfast already organised at your hotel we recommend holding off until you get to your first stop of the morning.

Jump on the Subway and make your way to Canal Street to check out Little Italy.

One of the most common misconceptions people have about Little Italy is that the only thing that’s worth visiting in the place is the amazing food.

In fact, there are plenty of things to see and do in Little Italy that are just as great as anywhere else.

Here, you will also find some of trendiest clothing stores in New York, as well as some of the best bars in the city.

If you’re lucky to catch the annual Feast of San Gennaro held during September, visiting Little Italy will definitely become one of your favourite things to do in New York.

No long weekend in New York is complete without visiting the famous Chinatown, and luckily it is just across Canal Street from Little Italy.

This is a popular spot for everyone as it includes history and community, as well as delicious food.

The entirety of this district feels like one giant attraction, which is very interesting to think about as it’s also the place where the largest Chinese community lives outside of Asia.

Here you’ll find a large number of genuine restaurants, quirky little shops, and street markets with a general sense of community.

Don’t forget to check out some of its many pharmacies to grab unique herbal remedies.

A short 15-minute walk from Chinatown is the City Hall of New York, which happens to be one of the oldest ones in the entire US.

It’s a stunning piece of architecture, and its style is one of the most iconic places in New York City. It’s appeared in a lot of movies and TV shows and is just as famous as many other landmarks in the city.

You can also enter the City Hall for a tour if you’d like, and learn more about its fascinating history.

You’ll find out about the inner workings of New York City’s government as well as the Mayor’s Office and the City Council’s office.

Day 3 – Afternoon

Jump back on the Subway and check out the West Village neighbourhood at the 9th Street Station, and legendary Greenwich Village.

Just like plenty of other locations in New York City, Greenwich Village has appeared in a lot of movies. So if you’re on a mission to visit all of the most famous spots in town, you’ll have to stop by.

The entire village used to be the rundown home of artists and bohemians in the 60’s, and it still counts as one of the trendiest spots in the city.

Today many of the ramshackle units have been replaced with trendy bars, cafes, and restaurants, and lots of amazing music venues, like at Bleecker Street, as well as plenty of unique architecture.

It’s only a 5-minute walk to get to Washington Square Park, where you’ll be greeted by the beautiful marble arch, impressive fountain and lots of lovely, shady trees.

This is a spot where many of New York City’s avant-garde artists gather, a place for people to enjoy games of chess, and you’ll find plenty of joyful children running around.

The famous district of SoHo is quite close too if you didn’t get your shopping fix over on 5th Avenue yesterday.

Jump back on your favourite public transport system, the Subway, and make your way to Times Square to see the surprisingly realistic wax figures of Madame Tussauds (HOT TIP – pre-purchase your entrance ticket for a cheaper price here ).

There is something eerie about standing next to a lifelike sculpture of someone you’re used to reading about or maybe seeing on TV.

However, it’s not only merely about taking selfies with the wax figures as much as it’s about atmosphere and presentation.

Unlike most other types of museums, Madame Tussauds in fact encourages interactivity.

Don’t forget, instead of simply standing idly and looking at the figures from afar, you’re encouraged to touch them, take pictures and do all kinds of funny poses.

Day 3 – Evening

You’ll find no shortage of places to eat around Times Square, so grab your favourite dish before continuing with the exploring.

Your final evening in New York City is going to take you to some beautiful places to see at night, especially if you have to see the bright lights that make the city so unique.

Bryant Park, only a short distance from Times Square, is a relatively calm place considering it’s practically in the centre of Manhattan.

Here you’ll enjoy the huge lawn surrounded by lovely gardens, and it’ll almost feel like you’re in an oasis between the chaos of the city.

While it’s not as green and lush in the colder months, it’s one of the spots in New York City with the best Christmas decorations.

An ice-skating rink is a place you wouldn’t want to miss if you are planning your 3-day trip to New York City in winter.

If you’re trying to figure out what to do in New York City in 3 days and St. Patrick’s Cathedral is not on that list, then you’re missing out on something special.

The cathedral was originally constructed in the second half of the 19 th century in a beautiful (and striking) style. However, due to years of wear and tear, pollution, and acid rain the exterior started to crumble.

The city decided to renovate the gorgeous building, both on the inside and out, and the renovation itself cost around $200 million.

That might seem like a crazy amount of money, but once you step foot inside you’ll know that it was entirely worth it.

It’s a must-see spot that has a lot of intricacies in its design, but it’s also incredibly important, both spiritually and historically.

You absolutely must see it as the sun starts to set and the lights turn on.

Rockefeller Center, just south of Central Park on the east side of Manhattan, is one of the most well-known spots in all of New York City as it houses different and important studios for various networks and programs.

From the NBC building to the Radio City Music Hall and even the American Girls Doll Store, the Rockefeller Center is a place to easily get lost in.

This is also the place where the Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon is filmed, and you might be able to join the audience if you’re a fan for a live show.

However, the real reason to visit the Rockefeller Centre is to head to the top…

Use your New York CityPASS to grab a ticket to take you to the very top of the Rockefeller Center, a spot that has been cleverly dubbed the ‘Top of the Rock’ Observation Deck.

Enjoying a nice evening view of Manhattan from the Top of the Rock observation deck is the best way to end your 3 days in New York City itinerary.

It’s truly lovely to see more and more lights in Manhattan come to life just as the night starts to settle in. However make sure you give yourself lots of time to head up, as it’s quite popular in the evenings.

Overall, viewing New York from so high atop is one of the best ways to experience the city. We think the view from here is actually better than others because you can look at the iconic Empire State Building all lit up just across the way.

Visiting the Top of the Rock Observation Deck is included in your CityPASS!

Tips for Making the Most of Your New York City Itinerary

Now that we’ve shared with you the perfect 3 days in New York City itinerary, we also want to let you know some of our best travel tips to help you make the most of your holiday.

Buyinga New York CityPASS is by far our number one travel tip for any NYC itinerary. We’ve talked about it a lot in this article, and that’s because the New York CityPASS is just great value. For only USD$136 you’ll get access to some of the most popular attractions in the city.

This includes the Empire State Building, the 9/11 Memorial and Museum, Rockefeller Center Top of the Rock, a Statue of Liberty or Circle Line cruise, entrance to the Met as well as the American Museum of Natural History.

If you did all of these independently it would cost you $92 more, giving you a saving of 42%. Well worth it if you’re planning on seeing all the best things in this NYC itinerary.

Another great NYC itinerary travel tip is rather than buying single tickets for every single Subway journey, which will cost you $3 each time, grab yourself a MetroCard from the stations and save money in the long run.

You have to pay $5.50 for the card itself, but it is reusable and brings the cost of each fare down to $2.75. Plus for you get a 5% bonus each time you top it up.

So by adding $20 to the card, you actually get $21.

If you think you’ll be riding the Subway even more, or want to take buses too, you can get yourself a 7-day unlimited pass for $32. Great if you don’t feel like walking between sights, or are staying in New York City longer.

As you can tell from this NYC itinerary, your days are jam-packed, so make sure you start every day as early as possible to make the most of your 3 days in New York City.

This can of course be hard if you’re planning on hitting up some of the hundreds of awesome bars, clubs and speakeasies that the city is known for. But it’s worth laying off the expensive drinks if you have a limited time in town.

Walking around New York City can be crazy, and a couple of blocks may take a lot longer than you’d ever think because of all the people and traffic around.

But if you’re feeling fit and love to explore a city on foot, then New York is a great place to do it.

There are tonnes of excellent little shops, galleries, churches, bars and restaurants to be found if you simply wander around and keep your eyes open.

Another good resource for all things New York City is the NYC & Co website .

Where to Stay in New York City

There’s absolutely no shortage of accommodation in New York City, and the first thing you’ll need to do when deciding where to stay is to pick a Manhattan neighbourhood to use as a base.

It all depends on your budget and what you want to see when you’re in town, and there’s plenty of great articles online to help you decide which one suits you.

Best Accommodations in Town

We personally stayed in two different neighbourhoods – TriBeCa and Midtown West – and both are great options. TriBeCa feels a little more local, and has good access to the southern tip of Manhattan, while Midtown West is more central located on the west side of the island.

Staying downtown in Manhattan is always going to be expensive, but if you’re in a budget and still want to be in the heart of everything, then the absolute best hostel in town is Jazz on Columbus Circle .

It’s a small, boutique hostel and has been renovated to have modern amenities throughout. It has a funky vibe with some awesome decor, and the dorms are small with between 3-6 beds.

High-quality accommodation in New York City is not cheap, but the closest balance you can get between affordability and quality is at Pod 51 Hotel .

The rooms are no-frills, but clean, bright and more spacious than you might expect. The location is great, there’s fast wifi and an amazing rooftop garden to enjoy.

This is it – the top of the cream for hotels in New York that you can still get for well under $1000 a night.

The Library Collection has some of the best hotels all around the city, but our favourite is Hotel Giraffe. You’ll be treated like a king or queen here!

The rooms are enormous, breakfast is lovely, the hotel boasts some fantastic relaxing areas and lounges, but the best part is the 3-hour long wine & cheese receptions held every evening.

If it’s a special occasion in the city, splurge out and stay here for your 3 days in New York itinerary!

Hotel Review – YOTEL New York

We spent a couple of nights in the funky, futuristic YOTEL New York hotel in Midtown West, and it was one of the most interesting and unique places we’ve stayed in for a long time.

The YOTEL chain has been taking off around the world with its 21st-century approach to how hotels should be, introducing all kinds of elements such as computer check-ins, high tech rooms and even a robot to store your bags to make your stay pretty awesome.

If you also work online or need to conduct business while you’re travelling then you’ll love the co-working focus that YOTEL has.

Located a short walk from Times Square in one direction and the High Line in another, YOTEL New York is in a great spot and the building itself has some great hangout areas.

Once you check-in on the computers downstairs you head up the elevator to the 4th floor, which is the main hub of the property.

Here you’ll find a reception desk with staff ready to help you with any questions you might have and a large chill-out area with couches.

There’s also a couple of places to eat, drink and hang on this floor – The Green Fig for all your Middle Eastern fare, KOMYUNITI, the co-working space with a full cafe waiting to serve up coffee, and Green Room 42 for late-night parties and gigs.

This is also where you’ll be able to access The Terrace – one of the biggest rooftop terraces in all of New York City, with huge green spaces, lots of places to sit and even some games to entertain you such as mini-golf.

During the night it comes alive with guests mingling, sipping on cocktails and making the most of the beautiful New York evenings.

The rooms at YOTEL are known as Cabins and are the core of the futuristic side of things in this accommodation.

It starts with the bed, which is a super comfortable ‘SmartBed’, which you can adjust with a push of a button. It can go from upright positioning like a couch, flat for sleep mode and everything in between if you just want to lay down and read a book.

This is actually a great feature because the rooms in New York can be quite small, so by being able to turn the bed into a couch (without being a futon or fold-out) during the day gives you a lot of extra room.

The Smart TV connects to your phone and laptop so you can stream anything you want, and there’s plenty of charging hubs around the cabin.

The bathroom also makes the most of limited space, and the huge rain shower head is a great feature.

We really liked how bright the cabins were, and how they made use of limited space in really intelligent ways. The bed was amazingly comfortable and perfect for relaxing at the end of a big day exploring.

The chill-out spaces downstairs were also brilliant, and when we had to get some work done in between outings we’d much rather hang out there than in our rooms.

The wifi was also free and quite fast, which is great for us needing to work online and for anyone that likes to stay connected with their friends and family.

As great as YOTEL New York was, it wasn’t perfect, and there are a few things that we didn’t love about the place.

First up was the YOBOT, the futuristic robot that was used to store luggage. We arrived at the hotel before check-in and decided to use the YOBOT to store our luggage.

It was quite slow and there was a long line up of people doing the same thing. In the end, we stood in line for over 20 minutes, then when it finally came time for our turn the storage was full, so one of the helpers downstairs just took our bags and placed them out the back for a fee.

We felt like it was a huge waste of time, and even though the YOBOT was cool, it did seem kind of gimmicky. And we weren’t impressed that even though we were staying there we had to pay for luggage storage.

There’s also a ‘facility fee’ of USD$35 plus tax, which supposedly gives you some special features. These include access to the FOUR level, where the Terrace, bars and restaurants are, free wifi (not really ‘free’ then) and the use of the gym and co-working spaces.

Our issue with this is that anybody can access the FOUR level, even if they aren’t staying there, by just going up the elevator. The entire area is completely open to the public and you don’t need a room key to go up there. So essentially guests pay USD$35 for the same thing that anybody not staying there gets for free.

That being said we did talk to one of the managers there and they said they were planning on bringing in a bunch of extra features like free bike rental and other benefits to make the $35 worth the money.

At the end of the day, we did like YOTEL New York and would stay there again. The futuristic style was unlike anything we had seen before, and we can see many of these elements being brought into hotels around the world.

It is also pretty affordable for a hotel of this quality in what is a very popular area in one of the most expensive cities in the world.

If you want to stay in central Manhattan, be within walking distance of many great attractions and would like a funky, cool and comfortable place to rest your head at night, YOTEL is a great spot to stay for your 3 days in New York City.

Our trip to New York City was made in collaboration with ‘NYC and Company’. All thoughts, opinions and hours spent wandering the streets are, as always, our own.

Alesha and Jarryd

Hi, We’re Alesha and Jarryd!

We’ve been traveling the world together since 2008, searching for the planet’s best destinations and adventures.

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Kudos, for the incredible NYC insights! Following your advice, we savored the diverse cuisines in Hell’s Kitchen and marveled at the city lights from the Brooklyn Bridge. What a ride!

Nice Post. Thanks for writing the right information.

Thank you so much. Happy to help 🙂

Thanks for the information you shared about Romantic Places in New York City. I appreciate your efforts and taking the time and sharing this content.

The itinerary strikes a good balance between seeing the classic must-see sights and experiencing some of the lesser-known hidden gems of the city. However, as with any city as vast and dynamic as New York, it’s impossible to see everything in just three days. Visitors may need to prioritize based on their own interests and time constraints. Still, this is a valuable resource for anyone looking to make the most of their trip to New York City. Thanks!

Great information! Using it as a guide for my upcoming 3 days trip to NYC.

Happy the article could help. Have a great trip. 🙂

Thank you for taking your time and provide us with this helpful post.

Soon we will travel to New York and we already know a lot of things.

Glad the article was helpful. Have a great time in New York. 🙂

We have just returned from four days in New York and I just want to thank you so much for your itinerary. We followed it pretty much all the way and covered so much in ground and saw so many things. It was amazing. Thank you so much again!

Thanks for sharing this. I find it so help you.

Thank you SO much for such a great breakdown – I was worried 3 days would be impossible, but seeing how much you’ve fit in I’m feeling confident with some comfy shoes and a few coffees I can do this 😀

Hi Claire, NY is definitely overwhelming. We fitted a lot in when we were there. They were long days and a lot of walking but we thought “when are we going to be in NY again”. There is so much fun things to do. Have a wonderful time. Happy travels

Hi, thanks for the guide. We are planning our trip for April, so this will be really helpful. It sounds like a City Pass is the way to go! Jan

Hi Jan, that is exciting you are heading to NYC. It is such an incredible city with so much to do. When we were there, we had the city pass and it was so convenient. If you want to go to the locations that the city pass offers, then it is definitely worth it. As it was our first time visiting, it saved us money. Have a great time. Happy travels.

Hello and thanks for all the tips! We are going in April and I was trying to book a Crown visit for the Statue of Liberty. I saw somewhere you need to purchase tickets 4 months in advance but now I can’t find the site to do so. Plus I read a lot of scam sites. Do you recommend how to do this?

Hi Dannie, that is great you are heading to NYC. We never got book the crown visit for the Statue of Liberty. We only saw it from a cruise on the water. I went to the NYC Tourism Website ( https://www.nycgo.com/ ) and they link to the State of Liberty website here https://www.statueofliberty.org/statue-of-liberty/ . Maybe you could contact the State of Liberty and they may be able to help with your booking. Sorry we can not help. It would be an amazing view from the top. All the best and have a great trip.

Can you recommend any alterations to this itenirary if we choose to go around Christmas time?

Dawn, that is so exciting you are going there for Christmas. We would love to see NYC during the festive season one time. We only visited outside of the this time. We are not too sure about the Christmas activities that will be going on. This itinerary on our article would be good to follow and add in Christmas activities when you can. Have a great time.

Thanks on your marvelous posting! I seriously enjoyed reading it, you’re a great author. I will ensure that I bookmark your blog aand definitely will come back aat some point. I want to encourage yourself to continue your great job, have a nice weekend!

whoah this weblog is wonderful i really like studying your articles. Keeep up the good work! You already know, a lot of persons are lopoking round for this info, you can aiid them greatly.

Thanks for finally writing about > 3 Days in New York City – The PERFECT Itinerary (2020 Guide) < Liked it!

what an amazing city! now it is one of my favorite ones! i’ve been to different places but no city has impressed me as much as New York! I really like travelling and as the person who does it really often i can reccomend to everyone to use some car rental service to make the process much more comfortable!

So glad you enjoyed the city Michael. What was your favourite part of the city?

Hi, this is not a comment, just asking for advice which is the best time to visit New York? i suffer from arthritis so cant do winter, looking for inexpensive but comfortable accommodation in Manhattan for 4 people with a strict budget. Kind regards Pam from South Africa

Hi Pam, summer or spring sounds like a great time for you. Do give booking. com a look for the best budget rooms for the 4 of you. Here is the link – https://www.booking.com/district/us/new-york/manhattan.en-gb.html?aid=899664 Have a great tip. Happy travels.

your 3 day plan is great, however, if you could include the pricing of the attractions, will enable people to budget for the visit!!

Hi Pani, we purchased City Pass cards so all the attractions are included on this card. We feel it is the best way to see them all. You can even skip the lines sometimes if you have the card. Check out the card for yourself. 🙂 https://bit.ly/2ya654E

I am going with a group of 6 and we want to fast track the attractions with skip the lines access, etc. Does the City Pass allow this? Also, want to go to the crown of the statue of liberty. Is it worth that? And does City pass allow that?

Yes. You get to go in another line. I don’t know if it is the fast track line but we got in way faster than all the other people in the other line as we had a ticket all ready.

Just got back from nyc with my family (3 kids). I stumbled upon this blog when I started stressing about not having an itinerary of sorts. We followed it almost completely. Moved a few things around based off that we were there 3.5 days and our hotel location. But this was a lifesaver and helped us make the most of our time. I also like how it was a plan that used the city pass which we had already planned to use. Thanks!

Hi, Thank you for the information, this is really useful, but do think it would be still possible with 2 kids (2 & 5)? we will be there in Jul 24, booked in Staybridge hotel

Great article guys! I would also suggest a helicopter ride over the spectacular New York skyline, which is a sight to behold. These rides are absolutely safe for children as well; could be something of a mind-blowing experience for them.

Great information, thank you so much! I am going to New York this summer for a conference and hoping to use many of these tips during my free time, as it is the first time I am actually staying overnight in New York. I have the list of things I want to see while there, and this helped me to map the sights in my mind. Perfect timing with this detailed information!

Hi Anu – Riikka, we hope you have a great time. It is a big city and so much to do. Work out what you really want to do and concentrate on them. Happy travels

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Washington, D.C.   Travel Guide

Courtesy of Kevin Voelker Photography | Getty Images

3-days Itinerary in Washington, D.C.

• 3-Day Itinerary
• All Things To Do
• 1-Day Itinerary
• 2-Day Itinerary

Lincoln Memorial Lincoln Memorial free

U.S. News Insider Tip:  The best time to see this monument is after dark when it's illuminated. You'll still contend with crowds, but it will be worth it. – Marisa Méndez, Senior Editor

Although the Lincoln Memorial is just one of the District's many monuments, the larger-than-life Honest Abe is also among travelers' favorites. History buffs might enjoy reading Lincoln's  two famous speeches – the Second Inaugural Address and the Gettysburg Address – which are both etched into the memorial's north and south walls, respectively. Meanwhile, art history and architecture aficionados will enjoy admiring the building's striking design by Henry Bacon, complete with 38 Doric columns, 36 of which signify the states in the Union at the time Lincoln passed away.

Vietnam Veterans and Korean War Veterans Memorials Vietnam Veterans and Korean War Veterans Memorials free

One of the most moving war memorials, the Vietnam Veterans Memorial – or "the Wall," as it's commonly referred to – is a long black granite wall with the names of more than 58,000 Americans who perished during the Vietnam War emblazoned on its surface. Recent travelers said their visits to the site were heartbreaking but thought-provoking and powerful, adding that even the toughest of individuals will find it hard to not become emotional while reading the wall's names. If you're looking for a specific person, keep in mind that the soldiers' names are ordered by the date they died, not alphabetically. Also, reviewers recommend using the attraction's name books and visiting during the day when there's ample sunlight.

When you're wandering along the eastern side of the Mall, venture to the Korean War Veterans Memorial. Paying tribute to the 1.5 million who served in "The Forgotten War," this privately funded site contains 19 stainless steel statues of soldiers in combat. In a triangular area known as the Field of Service, soldier statues march toward an American flag. Next to the soldiers is a 164-foot-long granite wall that pays homage to the unnamed troops that fought in the Korean War. Another highlight of the memorial is the Pool of Remembrance, a tranquil place for reflection. However, some past travelers cautioned that the memorial lacks signage, so younger visitors may not understand as much as those who lived through the war.

World War II Memorial World War II Memorial free

U.S. News Insider Tip:  While it's pretty during the day, the memorial is incomparable at night. Visit after sunset. – Marisa Méndez, Senior Editor

The World War II Memorial was dedicated in 2004 to the 16 million American military members who served during World War II, including the thousands of individuals who lost their lives during the fight. A circle of 56 columns (representing the U.S. states and territories from the era) looks over the Rainbow Pool. At night, with lights shining, this memorial can be quite ethereal. The structure also has a wall of more than 4,000 gold stars – one for every 100 Americans who died in the conflict.

The White House and the Washington Monument The White House and the Washington Monument free

Even if you're only in town for a short trip, visiting the Washington Monument and the White House – two marble symbols of the U.S. – is a must for any first-time D.C. visitor.

Standing just shy of 555 ½ feet, the Washington Monument was the tallest structure in the world at its completion in 1884. Nowadays, you can ride one of the monument's glass-encased elevators to the top observation deck to enjoy 360-degree views of the city, which invariably impress visitors. You can explore the attraction's exterior for free 24 hours a day, but National Park Service rangers are only available from 9:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. to answer questions. The monument itself is open to visitors every day from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Free timed-entry tickets can be reserved up to 30 days in advance via Recreation.gov . (There is a $1 nonrefundable service charge for each ticket.) Some same-day tickets are distributed daily on a first-come, first served basis. The ticket window opens at 8:45 a.m.; be prepared for a line. The Smithsonian Metro stop is closest to the monument. Visit the National Park Service's Washington Monument page for more information.

Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum free

Note: Beginning in 2018, the museum embarked on an ambitious, multiyear, multimillion-dollar effort to renovate and reimagine all of its exhibits and put 1,400 new objects on display. It's reopening galleries in stages, but the IMAX theater is closed. Check the website to see what's on display before you go.

Attracting millions of people each year, the Smithsonian National Air and Space Museum contains a trove of celebrated aircraft, including Amelia Earhart's Lockheed Vega 5B, the Apollo 11 Command Module, Charles Lindbergh's Spirit of St. Louis and Wilbur and Orville Wright's 1903 Wright Flyer, among others. Exhibits include flight simulators, an IMAX theater and the Einstein Planetarium. And parents beware: The gift shop is huge, so get ready for pleas from your kids. 

U.S. Capitol and the Library of Congress U.S. Capitol and the Library of Congress free

Arguably the most magnificent building in Washington, the U.S. Capitol is where visitors go to witness politics in action. Inside, members of both houses of Congress debate and create national policy and law, while visitors explore the building's north and south wings and circular centerpiece: the Rotunda. This iconic hall houses paintings, frescoes and sculptures depicting famous scenes from American history, not to mention an iconic cast-iron dome added to the structure in 1868. Though some travelers express mixed reviews on whether the U.S. Capitol warrants the time and effort spent (both making reservations and going on the actual tour), most agree the site is well worth a visit.

If you're not that stoked about exploring the building's innards, consider taking a stroll outside of the building. It's located on the National Mall nearby the U.S. Botanic Garden and the National Air and Space Museum . The easiest way to reach the Capitol is via the Metro to the Capitol South or Federal Center SW stops (both on the Blue, Silver and Orange lines) or the Union Station stop (on the Red Line). Additionally, there are bike racks outside the Capital Visitor Center and Capital Bikeshare stations nearby. For more information, check out the official U.S. Capitol Visitor Center website .

National Gallery of Art National Gallery of Art free

U.S. News Insider Tip: There are two things you won't want to miss here: the rooftop terrace, which affords panoramic views of the city and a photo op with a giant blue rooster, and the only Leonardo da Vinci oil painting on permanent exhibition in the U.S. – Catriona Kendall, Associate Editor

If you're any kind of art connoisseur, you should make a stop at the National Gallery of Art. Composed of the East Building, which houses the gallery's more modern works (think: Henri Matisse and Mark Rothko), and the West Building, which contains the collection's older works (from Sandro Botticelli to Claude Monet), this museum has enough to fill an entire afternoon. Visitors often remark on the museum's large size and expansive collection. Pace yourself and maybe order a coffee, gelato or lunch at one of the gallery's five bars and cafes.

National Archives Museum National Archives Museum free

If you love history, you'll enjoy visiting this museum. A treasure trove of the United States' founding documents, the National Archives Museum is high on travelers' to-do lists and almost always has long entrance lines. But once you do get inside, you'll see the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution and the Bill of Rights, along with one of the surviving copies of the Magna Carta. Other interactive and kid-friendly exhibits fill the museum, which is located off the Archives-Navy Memorial-Penn Quarter Metro station on the Green and Yellow lines. Conveniently, the museum is also a popular stop on many of the city's best bus tours .

Though the museum welcomes visitors every day from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., visitors are not permitted to enter after 5 p.m. A gift shop, cafe and restrooms are on-site. 

Washington National Cathedral Washington National Cathedral

U.S. News Insider Tip: Opt for a tour instead of exploring on your own, especially if you want to spot some of the cathedral's weirder gargoyles (like the famous Darth Vader). – Marisa Méndez, Senior Editor

Construction first began on this massive cathedral – the sixth largest in the world – in 1907, but it wasn't actually completed until 1990. (Though work on the building continues, including extensive and ongoing repairs after an earthquake damaged the structure in 2011.) Designed in the Gothic style, the Washington National Cathedral sits surrounded by gardens, creating a pleasant atmosphere for visitors. Take a stroll around the cathedral and peer at its high vaults and flying buttresses, keeping a close eye out for gargoyles (there's one of Darth Vader!). Step inside to admire the building's intricate stained-glass windows.

Smithsonian's National Zoo & Conservation Biology Institute Smithsonian's National Zoo & Conservation Biology Institute free

More than 1,800 animals reside at the Smithsonian's 163-acre National Zoo & Conservation Biology Institute, from Asian elephants to cheetahs to sea lions. Look up every now and then as you stroll beneath the Orangutan Transport System (called the O Line): You may spot orangutans swinging along cables between steel towers. Or, if you're more intrigued by animals native to South America, head over to the Amazonia exhibit, home to creatures like titi monkeys and multiple frog species. The Great Cats exhibit features Sumatran tigers and African lions, among other feline predators. The zoo also has a playground and other attractions geared toward kids. If you time your visit for the holidays, swing by the zoo after dark for its ZooLights exhibition, when animal lanterns and lights bedazzle the park.

Recent visitors praised the zoo's pleasant surroundings and broad selection of species. Others warn future travelers to temper expectations: It's popular during the spring and summer seasons and there are long lines for (somewhat overpriced) food. Though some said the zoo could be more exciting and have a broader array of animals, keep in mind the more than 360 species are free to visit.

The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts

U.S. News Insider Tip:  Even if you don't have time to catch a performance, head to the rooftop of the Kennedy Center to grab a drink and see an incredible sunset from the terrace. The on-site REACH art gallery and sculpture garden (free) are also fun to wander around. – Erin Evans

Many travelers highly recommend a visit to The John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, built and named for America's beloved Camelot president. The Kennedy Center houses the National Symphony Orchestra and the Washington National Opera and hosts numerous other dance, theater and musical performances throughout the year. Although ticket prices can run a bit high, you can take in a performance for free on the Millennium Stage. The Kennedy Center debuted a new permanent exhibit in 2022: Visitors can explore the free "Art and Ideals: President John F. Kennedy" immersive exhibit to learn about the relationship between Kennedy's presidency and the arts. The facility also includes the REACH, an indoor/outdoor complex comprising an art gallery, sculpture garden, classrooms and studios, lecture halls, a video wall and more interactive spaces.

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The Perfect 2 to 3 Days in Portland Itinerary

Last Updated on February 20, 2024

by Kate Daniel

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Planning a 2 or 3 days in Portland itinerary can be an absolute joy when it comes to all of the cool and unusual things to do in this eclectic Oregon city. Echoing Austin — Texas’ hipster oasis — the Rose City’s motto, “Keep Portland Weird,” sums up its distinctive character, one affectionately satirized in the cult favorite TV show Portlandia .

But Portland’s quirkiness isn’t its only quality. Far from it. This modern metropolis, a gem of the Northwest, is also famous for its incredible food scene, eco-consciousness, gregarious locals, and much more.

If you’re planning a long weekend in Portland, read on to find some of the must-see attractions in this delightfully, proudly off-beat city. 

Table of Contents

How Many Days in Portland?

Many would-be visitors to the Rose City will inevitably wonder how many days in Portland is enough to really do it justice and not feel too rushed.

Though it is Oregon’s largest city, Portland is also relatively compact and you can easily get a good feel for it in just a couple of days. With 2 days in Portland, you will have time to see all of the highlights in the downtown area and experience some of the city’s nightlife!

And if you happen to be visiting for a weekend trip, you can also have the opportunity to browse the Portland Saturday Market, which is considered to be the largest outdoor market in the USA.

If you have more time, consider spending another day in the city. Seeing Portland in 3 days allows you to venture further and maybe head out on a day trip from the city. However, there are plenty of things to do in Portland that you will be just as happy staying within the city!

Best Time to Visit Portland 

Like its infamously rainy northern neighbor Seattle, Portland, too, upholds the Pacific Northwest’s cold, damp stereotype for much of the year. You’re almost guaranteed to see some rain, no matter when you visit.

Bring a jacket and, as long as you don’t mind standing out, an umbrella! Pacific Northwesterners are weirdly umbrella-averse. I don’t know why. It’s just how it is. We’ll walk in a literal downpour with our hoodie pulled way up over our beanie-clad head, soaking wet, and act completely unbothered. Don’t be like us; umbrellas exist for a reason.

However, it’s not all rain all the time. You can expect some days that exceed 90 ° F (32 ° C), chilly mornings, and cool nights on any given summer day in Portland.

Late spring, summer, and early fall are undoubtedly the best times to visit, not just because of the sunshine. It’s also when the rose, rhododendrons, and other flowers that line the city streets and urban gardens will be in full bloom, making the already-colorful city extra bright.

This is also prime time for outdoor events and festivals. 

If you visit in winter, expect to be cold and wet (like, really wet). The good news is Oregon’s coast and near-coast region doesn’t usually drop to freezing during winter, meaning you should be safe from snow and ice. If you want that sort of thing, though, Mt. Hood isn’t far! 

Getting To & Around Portland

As its name denotes, Portland is and always has been a significant transport hub. But not just for seafarers. It’s also well-connected to the region via a train station, numerous buses, and an international airport. It’s also just under three hours’ drive from Seattle . 

Portland is relatively easy to navigate. The MAX light rail from the airport to downtown takes about 40 minutes and costs about $2.50, or you can Uber or Lyft if you don’t have a car. 

While traffic can be heavy, it’s not as bad when compared to nearby Seattle. Most people walk or cycle everywhere or take public transport. 

The city’s stellar public transit network consists of MAX light rail, streetcars, and commuter rail, making it easy to get around Portland. If you’re going to stay within city limits, you really don’t need a car at all. 

Most tourist attractions in the Rose City are located on the west side of the Willamette River and neighborhoods like downtown, the Pearl District, and Nob Hill. If your home base is in this area, you can walk or cycle most places. 

The Rose City is famously bike-friendly, yet unlike some cycle-centric metropolises (Amsterdam), you’re not likely to get hit by a bike if you do prefer to hoof it. If you didn’t bring a bike, you could rent one for a few hours, the day, or the weekend from providers like Bike Town. 

If you want to venture outside the city to the Oregon Coast or even down to San Francisco , which I can’t recommend strongly enough, a car will be helpful. You can rent one through Rentalcars.com if you don’t have your own. 

Don’t fret if driving isn’t your thing, though! There are buses to some of the best destinations, like Seaside and Cannon Beach. A Greyhound from Union Station to Cannon Beach takes about two hours. Just be prepared to navigate a sporadic bus system once you get to your destination or walk/taxi everywhere. 

2 to 3-Day Portland Itinerary

There’s always something happening in The Rose City, and you may find it hard to fit in everything you want to do in just one weekend. But if you do only have two days in Portland, here are a few stops you won’t want to miss. 

Day 1 – Doughnuts, Bookshops & Museums!

Voodoo doughnuts .

The first stop is the city’s most famous and beloved doughnut shop,  Voodoo Doughnuts , where you can grab a breakfast pastry and coffee. 

Kenneth “Cat Daddy” Pogson and Tres Shannon, two entertainment-minded entrepreneurs, opened the first Voodoo Doughnuts in 2003. At the time, there wasn’t a single doughnut shop in downtown Portland, so you can imagine the craze that erupted when a shop as wacky as the city itself opened up and started serving up delicious pastries in a medley of classic and unconventional flavors.

Within a month, the shop had achieved a national press mention and a loyal, die-hard following at home. They’re now world-famous and an absolute must-stop on any Portland weekend itinerary.

If you’re still hungry or the line at Voodoo is absurdly long, head to Blue Star. While Voodoo’s patrons are about a 50/50 mix of tourists and locals, many Portlanders eschew the shop, insisting  Blue Star  is far better. 

The lesser-known but no less tasty Blue Star serves up various tantalizing flavors, including Cointreau Crème Brûlée, maple bacon, Valrhona chocolate crunch, and The O.G., featuring an orxata (horchata) glaze. 

If you’re really into your doughnuts you can even do a doughnut tour!

Powell’s Books 

Powell’s Books  is heaven for bookworms. The world’s largest independent bookstore, it is undoubtedly one of Portland’s most prized assets and another quintessential stop on a Portland, Oregon itinerary. 

The shop spans an entire city block and is packed with a vast array of new and used books in every genre. 

Grab a basket; you’ll need it to carry everything you pick up as you browse the labyrinth. 

Powell’s is also famous for its rare book room, featuring rare first editions and signed copies of antique and contemporary titles. 

After checking out, head to the café to rest for a bit and have a bite and a coffee. You’ll need to re-energize after spending a couple of hours wandering the store! And yes, you will probably be drinking a lot of coffee on your weekend in Portland. When in Rome… 

An Afternoon at the Museum 

Before heading out to get a taste of Portland’s vibrant nightlife, check out one (or both!) of the city’s most prominent museums.

The  Oregon Museum of Science and Industry  features various temporary exhibitions throughout the year and the Natural Science Hall, Empirical Theater, USS Blueback Submarine, and Kendall Planetarium. 

Learn about everything from ancient natural history to contemporary scientific innovations and get lost in the mind-blowing vastness and complexity of the night sky. 

Founded in 1892, the  Portland Art Museum  is one of the West Coast’s oldest art museums. 

It features various temporary exhibitions featuring world-renowned artists in painting, print, mixed media, film, and more. The museum also houses permanent collections, including Native American Art, Asian Art, Northwest Art, European Art, American Art, and Photography. 

Fancy a history lesson? Check out  Pittock Mansion , which offers an immersive look at the city’s past in the setting of one of its oldest and most beautiful historic homes. The mansion also has a fantastic view of the city! 

Enjoy Portland’s Nightlife

People joke that everyone in Portland is a barista, in a band, or both. And it’s not that far from the truth. There’s pretty much always a live show going on somewhere.

On your first night out, head to a venue or go bar-hopping and let yourself get swept into the vibrant nightlife scene.

Head to Alberta Street, the place to be for hip, local flavor. Start at Alberta Street Pub , a high-end establishment with a terrace perfect for sipping a cocktail on a summer evening. Then, stop by Radio Room , an art deco-themed bar with vegan treats and seasonal cocktails.

Next is Bye and Bye , a Southern-inspired bar with superb vegan cuisine. If it wasn’t clear by now, Portland is also one of the easiest places to be a vegan tourist! 

Also on Alberta Street is Alleyway Bar, which is a bit grungy in the best possible way and often hosts live music. 

McMenamins Crystal Ballroom, Revolution Hall, Alladin Theater, Dante’s, and Mississippi Studios are other hot spots for live music. Grab a copy of  Portland Mercury  to see what’s happening on any given evening. 

Day 2 – Food Trucks, Parks & Arcades

Check out the food truck scene .

The Rose City is a foodie paradise, with a vast array of establishments from small cafes to Michelin restaurants. 

For the second day of your time in Portland, grab brunch at a food cart. 

Portland famously has the  most strip clubs per capita  of any U.S. city, about twice as many as public restrooms. But it’s also home to one of the nation’s biggest food truck scenes!

More than 600 food trucks throughout the city dishing up every kind of cuisine imaginable, from Korean to Ethiopian to and down-home barbecue to vegan pizza. Seriously, they have it all.

Unlike most food truck scenes, Portland’s are not mobile. Instead, they are organized into stationary “pods.” You can find a map of all the carts  here , divided by categories to make finding your next meal a cinch. 

You won’t get to try them all on your weekend in Portland, but you can try at least a few throughout the day! According to locals and critics, some of the best include Yoshi’s Sushi, Farmer & the Beast, Bing Mi, Matt’s BBQ, and Baby Blue Woodfired Pizza. 

Washington Park 

Next up on your Portland weekend itinerary is a stroll through Washington Park. 

This urban green space is massive, with a zoo, arboretum, amphitheater, children’s museum, Japanese Garden, and International Test Rose Garden. The latter two are especially worth a visit. 

The Portland Japanese Garden comprises 5.5 acres with impeccably landscaped greenery and water features, and a tea house. 

The International Test Rose Garden features more than 10,000 roses in over 650 varieties of numerous colors and styles. This is reason enough to come in summer! June is peak bloom season, but there will likely be sweet-scented blossoms in late April through early October.

Ground Control 

Want to feel like a kid again if you’re spending 2 days in Portland? Head to  Ground Control , the family-friendly, nostalgia-inducing vintage-meets-futuristic arcade. It’s usually open from midday ‘til late. 

With an arcade and video games, pinball machines, and a dance mat, it’s the perfect spot to spend a couple of hours on a rainy afternoon! 

McMenamins 

Next, grab a bite or a drink at McMenamins. 

McMenamins  is a local chain of family-owned establishments, primarily hotels, restaurants, and bars, located in repurposed or rejuvenated historic buildings. Each location is unique, with distinct features reflecting the city and its history. 

McMenamins Kennedy School is one of the best. Located in a former abandoned elementary school, it might sound like the stuff horror movies are made of.

But there’s nothing spooky going on here unless there’s a scary flick showing at the in-house movie theatre. Besides the cinema, there’s also a hotel with unique rooms that evoke a sense of school-age nostalgia, a pool, a bar, and a brewery. 

McMenamins Crystal Hotel, next to the Crystal Ballroom, in the Pearl District, the White Eagle Saloon & Hotel, and St. Johns Theatre & Pub are other popular McMenamins locales in Portland. 

Day 3 – Day Trip from Portland

If you can spend 3 days in Portland, then there are a few great day trips you can take from the Rose City, if you’d like.

If the weather is nice, take advantage of the city’s status as one of the best spots for eco-tourism in the US! 

If you’re craving something unusual and distinctly Portland, take a short but somewhat challenging hike up to Witch’s Castle. The “castle” doesn’t have anything to do with witches. But the abandoned structure has had many unpleasant lives throughout the past 150 years and is said to be haunted.  

A bit further afield, there are multiple spots to check out the Pacific Northwest’s beauty along the Columbia River, at Multnomah Falls, Silver Falls, Hood River, or Mt. Hood. 

A little further still, but so worth it, is the stunning Oregon Coast, with vast stretches of sandy, atmospheric beaches and quaint towns like Seaside and Astoria.  

Where to Stay in Portland

If you’re looking for a great place to stay during your weekend in Portland, you really are spoilt for choice. There are countless great places to rest your head in the Rose City and if you’re looking for something great, check out these suggestions:

The Society Hotel – Situated within easy walking (or cycling!) distance of the Rose City’s top attractions, this chic hotel is perfect for those looking for a great place to stay. There are a number of rooms available and also a restaurant on site.

Kimpton Riverplace Hotel – If the life of luxury is more your style, then you can’t go wrong with this great hotel. Located on the banks of the Willamette River, there are a number of plush rooms available and countless other amenities to ensure your stay is a luxurious one.

HI Portland – Northwest – For budget backpackers or solo visitors, this hostel is a great choice for you. They have dorm beds and private rooms and there are also some great self-catering facilities and common areas to make meeting other traveller’s a breeze!

Private Rental – If you’re after a bit of privacy on your trip to Portland or would rather have a more “local” feel, then a private rental is the choice for you! There are a myriad of great properties in the Rose City, like this quaint, centrally located house .

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more hotels in Portland!

Planning the perfect weekend in Portland itinerary really isn’t a hard task as there are so many amazing things to do in this Pacific Northwest city.

Are you planning to visit Portland? Have any questions about this itinerary? Let us know in the comments!

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About Kate Daniel

Kate Daniel is a writer for The World Was Here First. Originally from Washington State, she is a slow traveller and digital nomad who loves exploring both her own backyard and far-flung destinations. When she isn't writing, she is most likely befriending stray cats or daydreaming about the next adventure.

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Us Weekly’s Favorite New TV Couples of 2024: From Maxton Hall’s Ruby and James to Bridgerton’s Polin

From Ruby and James from Maxton Hall to  My Lady Jane’ s Jane and Guildford, TV couples have kept Us fed this year.

There have been many fictional relationships we wanted to see come to life in 2024 , but the best surprises sprouted from the pairings we weren’t expecting to fall in love with this year.

Prime Video’s Maxton Hall is a great example. The series quietly premiered in May before blowing up because of the incredible chemistry between the leads: Damian Hardung and Harriet Herbig-Matten .

Maxton Hall introduced Ruby Bell (Herbig-Matten) as a scholarship student at a prestigious university in the U.K. who unwittingly witnessed a secret that put her on the wealthy Beaufort family’s radar. James Beaufort (Hardung) specifically set his sights on Ruby after realizing she knew something that could destroy his family. Their rivalry evolved, however, into an undeniable connection that Ruby and James were determined to make work despite their backgrounds creating constant obstacles for them.

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The first season ended with James and Ruby hopeful for their future — until a cliffhanger turned things upside down again. Luckily fans — including Us — can rest easy knowing there are more episodes coming our way after Prime Video renewed the series within a week of its release.

Bridgerton is another successful series built off romantic love. Season 3 thrust Colin Bridgerton ( Luke Newton ) into the spotlight as he began to question whether his friendship with longtime friend Penelope Featherington ( Nicola Coughlan ) was something more.

Keep scrolling for Us ‘ favorite new TV ships from 2024:

Credit: Prime Video; Netflix

Us Weekly's Favorite New TV Couples of 2024: From Maxton Hall's Ruby and James to Bridgerton's Polin

From Ruby and James from Maxton Hall to  My Lady Jane' s Jane and Guildford, TV couples have kept Us fed this year. There have been many fictional relationships we wanted to see come to life in 2024 , but the best surprises sprouted from the pairings we weren't expecting to fall in love with this year. Prime Video's Maxton Hall is a great example. The series quietly premiered in May before blowing up because of the incredible chemistry between the leads: Damian Hardung and Harriet Herbig-Matten . Maxton Hall introduced Ruby Bell (Herbig-Matten) as a scholarship student at a prestigious university in the U.K. who unwittingly witnessed a secret that put her on the wealthy Beaufort family’s radar. James Beaufort (Hardung) specifically set his sights on Ruby after realizing she knew something that could destroy his family. Their rivalry evolved, however, into an undeniable connection that Ruby and James were determined to make work despite their backgrounds creating constant obstacles for them. [poll id="3606705"] The first season ended with James and Ruby hopeful for their future — until a cliffhanger turned things upside down again. Luckily fans — including Us — can rest easy knowing there are more episodes coming our way after Prime Video renewed the series within a week of its release. Bridgerton is another successful series built off romantic love. Season 3 thrust Colin Bridgerton ( Luke Newton ) into the spotlight as he began to question whether his friendship with longtime friend Penelope Featherington ( Nicola Coughlan ) was something more. Keep scrolling for Us ' favorite new TV ships from 2024:

Credit: Disney+

Osha and Qimir ('Star Wars: The Acolyte')

Star Wars isn't exactly known for romance, which is why the “enemies to something more” connection between Osha (Amandla Stenberg) and Qimir (Manny Jacinto) took Us by surprise. The first episode started out with Osha never imagining that she would go to the dark side — only to end the season holding hands with Qimir while looking at a sunset. 

Now all fans need is for Disney to renew the show for a second season so we can watch Qimir train Osha as their bond continues to deepen. 

Credit: Prime Video

Jane and Guildford ('My Lady Jane')

What could have been just a historical reimagining turned into so much more because of the chemistry between Emily Bader and Edward Bluemel . The costars had Us invested from their very first scene together and Jane and Guildford's romance only got better as the season continued. 

Now where is that renewal?

Credit: Amazon MGM Studios

Ruby and James ('Maxton Hall')

Sometimes all you need is two actors with insane chemistry, an enemies to lovers story line and a dream. Prime Video's Maxton Hall had all of that — and more — when it premiered in May. 

Based on Mona Kasten 's Save You book series, Maxton Hall: The World Between Us followed Ruby, who accidentally witnessed a shocking secret at her private school that subsequently brought millionaire heir James into her life. What started out as an antagonistic relationship between classmates turned into something unexpected as Ruby and James fought for a future together against all the odds.

The six-part German-language TV series quickly found record-breaking success by being the most-watched non-U.S. title during its first week on Prime Video. Maxton Hall was renewed for a second season one week after its debut.  

Credit: Courtesy of Netflix

Francesca and Michaela ('Bridgerton')

Bridgerton fans only had Francesca ( Hannah Dodd ) and Michaela ( Masali Baduza ) for a few brief seconds during season 3 but they are already anxiously awaiting their season. Their first interaction held even more meeting considering Francesca's love interest in the When He Was Wicked novel was Michael. 

Credit: Teddy Cavendish/Netflix

Emma and Dex ('One Day')

Based on the 2009 novel of the same name by David Nicholls , One Day made Us fall in love with friends Emma Morley ( Ambika Mod ) and Dexter Mayhew ( Leo Woodall) whose lives remained intertwined although they went their separate ways. It took years and years for the stars to align for Emma and Dex , and just as swiftly as they got together, their relationship got taken away from Us . 

Despite the heartbreaking ending, the Netflix series left a mark largely because of Mod and Woodall's commitment to their roles. 

Credit: Liam Daniel/Netflix

Penelope and Colin ('Bridgerton')

After two seasons of buildup, it was finally time for Colin and Penelope to shine as the newest Bridgerton couple. The pair started out as friends but a season 3 kiss made Colin realize that Penelope was The One. Romance fans were subsequently in for a treat as Colin came to terms with his feelings and fought for Penelope before she got engaged to someone else. 

Their story doesn't stop there though since Netflix is releasing a second part — which includes more steamy moments — in June. 

Credit: Ed Araquel/The CW

Max and Ellis ('Wild Cards')

The police procedural introduced The CW viewers to demoted water-cop Cole Ellis ( Giacomo Gianniotti ) who was offered an opportunity at redemption if he worked with con woman Max Mitchell ( Vanessa Morgan ) to help solve crimes. The duo didn't make sense on paper but on screen the sparks were flying as soon as Gianniotti and Morgan appeared in their first scene together.

Ellis and Max's blossoming romance was rocky at best due to her past — and the secrets she continued to keep from him. But the show appeared to be in it for the long haul with Ellis and Max. Now The CW just needs to renew the Canadian import series for another season.  

Credit: Ed Araquel/CBS

Colter and Billie ('Tracker')

Justin Hartley knew what he was doing when he cast his wife, Sofia Pernas , to play his character Colter Shaw's ex Billie Matalon, who previously tricked him out of a reward.

Tracker , which premiered in February, centered around the survivalist as he traveled the country helping people and law enforcement tackle a variety of mysteries. One of the cases led Colter to reunite with Billie and it didn't take long before they started working together. 

Colter and Billie's reunion was full of potential — and chemistry — but they ultimately didn't reconcile. Their connection was undeniable however and Hartley has since confirmed that fans will see Colter and Billie again during season 2 of the hit CBS series.  

Credit: Netflix

Joanne and Noah ('Nobody Wants This')

Nobody Wants This follows the unlikely relationship between an agnostic woman named Joanne (Kristen Bell) and a Jewish rabbi Noah (Adam Brody).

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In this article

Justin Hartley

Kristen Bell

Nicola Coughlan

Sofia Pernas

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