Tap any contactless card on the subway turnstiles to use OMNY; after 12 paid rides in a week the rest are free, effectively giving you an unlimited pass. Plan neighborhoods by cluster to cut down on zigzagging through Manhattan traffic.
Day 1: Midtown and Museums
Start at the Museum of Modern Art for the 10:30 a.m. opening, then walk to Bryant Park and the New York Public Library. For skyline views on a budget, book Summit One Vanderbilt’s first time slot; sunrise tickets are cheaper and less crowded.
Day 2: Downtown + Brooklyn
Ride the Staten Island Ferry (free) for a Statue of Liberty view, then explore the 9/11 Memorial. Cross the Brooklyn Bridge before lunch and head to Time Out Market for varied vendors under one roof. Finish with sunset in DUMBO or at the rooftop bar of 1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge.
Food You Can Trust
- Xi’an Famous Foods for hand-pulled noodles (multiple branches, line moves fast).
- Los Tacos No.1 inside Chelsea Market for al pastor—order at the far-left counter for quicker service.
- Levain Bakery for cookies; the Upper West Side location is less chaotic than the midtown kiosk.
Always check the MTA Weekender map for service changes before late-night rides and avoid empty subway cars. Yellow taxis display rate codes on the roof; if the center light is off, the cab already has a passenger.