More than 60 million people visit New York City every year, and a huge percentage of them only hit the big sites—Times Square, the Empire State Building, etc. I get it: They’re iconic. But as someone who has lived in this city for more than 30 years, I’m here to tell you that you’re missing out if you don’t mix in some off-the-beaten path locations. Luckily, five days gives you plenty of time to do just that.

As the saying goes, “New York is not a city—it’s a world.” You could spend a lifetime here and still never see everything. (And I can confirm: I’ve lived in NYC forever, and there’s always more to discover.) But in four days, you’ll be able to get a good taste that will leave you hungry for more.

Welcome to the concrete jungle that is New York City. Over the next three days, I'll guide you through some of the most inspiring and iconic spots of my hometown. From the towering buildings of Manhattan to the artsy blocks of Brooklyn, I’ve crafted an itinerary that’s designed to show you different sides to the city. And to make sure you experience the very best of the best, I’ve curated a selection of top-rated spots and experiences from Tripadvisor, blending the must-see sights with hidden gems.