NYC Itinerary: A Day In Manhattan

I learned quickly why it's deemed the city that never sleeps. New York City stays true to its name. After my first day in the city, I reached probably well over 17,000 steps (I wouldn't know because I sheepishly chose not to wear my Apple watch so I didn't mess up my outfit—rookie mistake!). I only saw my hotel room to get some R&R at night before the next jam-packed day.

In October, I visited New York City for the first time. After months of saving every TikTok post known to man of NYC recommendations and carefully curating a Pinterest board for fall in the city, the trip I've been dreaming about came to fruition. We stayed the heart of the city, and by that I mean, Times Square (I'm sure locals would argue that this is in fact not the heart of the city). Over two days, I visited all the stops that my Type A self strategically laid out via a Canva itinerary template. Here's all my favorite stops in Midtown NYC for the perfect day trip.

Stop 1: Ralph's Coffee

I'm sure there's much better coffee in the city, but Ralph's Coffee was the quintessential NYC fall coffee photo op. There's a few different locations, but I opted for the location right across from the St. Patrick's Cathedral, which is a stunner on its own. This location is an adorable green truck with the iconic Ralph Lauren teddy bear behind the wheel. The cuteness appeal made up for the overpriced coffee. Jokes aside, the coffee was the perfect start to a fall day in NYC. I got a hot hazelnut latte with oat milk. It was the perfect ratio of coffee and milk.

Stop 2: Liberty Bagels

Did you even come to New York if you didn't get a bagel? The answer is no. Liberty Bagels was a short walk from Ralph's Coffee. When you walk in, you can see why it's TikTok famous. The amount of spreads and bagel offerings were more than I've ever seen. I was overwhelmed trying to decide what to get—a great problem to have. I opted for a sandwich, which I can't recall the name, on a salt bagel. It was filled with hot sauce, egg whites, avocado, turkey bacon, and swiss cheese.

I'm not the most reliable source for determining if this sandwich was good or not because I actually hate bagel sandwiches. I know, I'm a fraud. But, what I am a reliable source on is bagels. The bagel was fluffy, soft, and very very hot. All the best bagels are scalding hot with steam coming out.

Stop 3: Central Park

The epitome of a fall day in NYC is taking a stroll around Central Park. I was lucky enough to go at a time where the park was boasting fall foliage and hues of red, orange, yellow, and everything happy. Something about the juxtaposition of the lush greenery nestled between skyscrapers is beautiful.

The park is big enough where you can spend hours perusing all the sights it has to offer, from the row boats in Central Park lake to artists and live music.

Stop 4: The Met

Spotted: You at the steps of the Met. It's a Gossip Girl reference, IYKYK. This is simply on the list so you can have a great photo op and TikTok video. However, art lovers need to go inside the Met and see all it has to offer. On your way back from living out your Blair Waldorf fantasy, admire the stoops and charming houses of the Upper East Side. (I sadly didn't make it to the Met this go around.)

Stop 5: Shopping on 5th Ave

Ok, I will admit that by the time I finished with Central Park, my feet were toast. But, if you have some energy left in you, window shop (or actually shop) the stores of 5th Ave. From Zara to Brandy Melville, and of course, designers galore, there's plenty of retail therapy.

Stop 6: Miss Nellie's NYC

If you're staying near Times Square, I would take some time after stop five to rejuvenate at your hotel. After you're refreshed and ready to hit the streets again, make reservations at Miss Nellie's. This eclectic restaurant was in the heart of Broadway. The dim lights and artsy decor had a fun ambiance perfect for a night out. The food was amazing, too. I got the lemon ricotta tortellini and it was superb. The best part, however, was that at the end of the meal, they bring the table shots.

Stop 7: Broadway Show

Miss Nellie's is the perfect pregame for a Broadway show. The show you attend is truly up to your tastes. My favorite, which I didn't even see in New York, is Mamma Mia. You can save some coin by visiting the red TKTS booth in Times Square for discounted prices.

Stop 8: Times Square

I think Times Square is responsible for why New York never sleeps. No matter what time of the day you go, it's bustling with people and lights and just everything stereotypical New York—and it's awesome. I will say I'm like one and done for Times Square, but it's a must-see if you're playing tourist.