Arrive into your chosen New York airport, and once you have collected your bags, transfer independently to your Manhattan hotel.

New York City is renowned for its iconic skyline dominated by skyscrapers like the Empire State Building and One World Trade Centre. It is also famous for its cultural landmarks such as the theatres along Broadway, the Metropolitan Museum of Art, and bustling Times Square.

Once you have settled into your hotel, head out to get your first taste of this electric city!

The New Yorker Hotel or similar

Kick off your morning with a visit to Times Square, the neon-lit heart of Manhattan. This area is buzzing with energy, street performers, and towering digital billboards. Just a short stroll away, you’ll find the Rockefeller Center. If you wish, you can head to the Top of the Rock observation deck for panoramic views of the city. Right across the street is the stunning St. Patrick’s Cathedral, a neo-gothic architectural gem. Take a few moments to appreciate the interior and escape the hustle outside.

Head uptown to Central Park, the city’s green oasis. Depending on your pace, you can walk along the scenic paths, visit Bethesda Terrace and Fountain, or rent a bike to explore more of the park. Don’t miss the Strawberry Fields memorial dedicated to John Lennon. You can also grab a bite at a café near the park or an Upper West Side deli.

After lunch, visit the Metropolitan Museum of Art, one of the world’s largest and most impressive art museums. Spend a few hours exploring its extensive collection, from ancient Egyptian artifacts to Renaissance masterpieces. On your way back, stroll down Fifth Avenue, passing iconic stores and landmarks like Trump Tower and Tiffany & Co.

Before the sun sets head to Summit, One Vanderbilt. More than just a scenic city observation deck, Summit One Vanderbilt, combines New York’s stunning skyline with a multi-sensory art installation that mirrors and warps the city around it. As the sun sets, the reflective exhibits take on a new dimension. Wrap up your day with a Broadway show or dinner in the nearby Hell’s Kitchen neighborhood, known for its wide range of international cuisine.

Optional Experience – Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour
With stops at 30 key landmarks all around New York City, this sightseeing bus route will enable you to view all the sights and sounds of Manhattan and beyond.

The New Yorker Hotel or similar

For your second morning in New York, tart early by taking the ferry from Battery Park to the Statue of Liberty and visit the Ellis Island Immigration Museum, where millions of immigrants entered the United States. After returning to Lower Manhattan, take a short walk to Wall Street, where you can see the New York Stock Exchange and the famous Charging Bull statue.

Visit the 9/11 Memorial, a poignant tribute to those lost in the attacks, with two reflecting pools set in the footprints of the Twin Towers then grab lunch near the One World Trade Center. In the afternoon take a leisurely walk across the Brooklyn Bridge, one of New York’s most iconic landmarks, and enjoy stunning views of the skyline and the East River.

End your day in Greenwich Village, one of New York’s most charming neighborhoods. Wander through its narrow, tree-lined streets and grab dinner at one of its many restaurants, from casual cafés to fine dining spots.

The New Yorker Hotel or similar

This morning return to the airport for your lunchtime flight up to Buffalo/Niagara Airport in the north of New York State.

On arrival, transfer to Niagara Falls and check-in to your pre-booked hotel. You can then spend the remainder of your day, getting your bearings and viewing the falls for the first time.

Wyndham Garden Inn, Niagara Falls or similar

Begin this morning with a visit to Niagara Falls State Park, the oldest state park in the U.S. The park offers some of the best viewpoints of the American Falls, Bridal Veil Falls, and a partial view of the Horseshoe Falls (mostly on the Canadian side). Head to Prospect Point for panoramic views of the falls and take in the roar and mist of the water.

One of the most iconic ways to experience the falls is on the ‘Maid of the Mist’ boat tour. Put on a rain poncho and board the boat, which takes you right into the heart of the mist, offering an unforgettable close-up view of the crashing falls. It’s an exhilarating experience, so expect to get wet! After your boat ride, grab lunch at the Top of the Falls Restaurant, located within the state park. The restaurant offers views of the falls and serves a variety of American fare, perfect for refuelling after a morning of sightseeing.

Next, head to the ‘Cave of the Winds’, one of the park’s most exciting attractions. After descending to the base of Bridal Veil Falls via an elevator, you’ll follow wooden walkways that bring you incredibly close to the falls, with the highlight being the Hurricane Deck, where the water rushes just feet away. It’s another wet and wild experience, but absolutely thrilling! For more breathtaking views, ascend the Niagara Falls Observation Tower, which extends out over the Niagara Gorge, giving you a spectacular vantage point of all three waterfalls.

In the evening, enjoy the illumination of the falls, when the cascading waters are bathed in vibrant colours. During the summer months and some weekends, you can also watch the Niagara Falls fireworks display, which adds even more magic to the evening atmosphere.

Wyndham Garden Inn, Niagara Falls or similar

Begin you last day at Niagara with a more peaceful adventure by hiking along the Niagara Gorge. Trails such as the Great Gorge Scenic Overlook Hike or the more challenging Devil’s Hole State Park trail provide stunning views of the Niagara River’s rapids and the surrounding nature. It’s a great way to experience the beauty of the area away from the crowds.

Another nearby gem is Whirlpool State Park, where you can witness the powerful whirlpool created by the Niagara River as it makes a sharp turn. The park has trails that lead down into the gorge, offering fantastic views of the swirling waters below. After your hike, head back into town for lunch.

For a more relaxed afternoon, visit the Niagara Adventure Theatre in the state park. They show a 30-minute film about the history of the falls, including the daredevils who attempted to go over them in barrels! The Aquarium of Niagara is another great option. It’s home to over 200 species of aquatic animals, including sea lions, penguins, and colourful tropical fish.

If you have some time left in the afternoon, hop on the Niagara Falls Scenic Trolley for a leisurely ride through the state park. The trolley makes it easy to see the main attractions while learning about the park’s history from the guides. Before returning to your hotel, take one last walk along the park’s many scenic paths, enjoying the sound of the falls and the mist in the air. The beauty of Niagara Falls is even more enchanting during the quieter evening hours.

Wyndham Garden Inn, Niagara Falls or similar

You may have time for one last stroll past the falls this morning, before making your way to Buffalo/Niagara Airport for your flight home.