The Perfect NYC Morning Itinerary

New York City is overflowing with incredible sights to see, museums to explore, and attractions to enjoy. While you could spend years delving into all the best things to do in NYC, most visitors only have a few days. It is important to have a well-thought-out New York City itinerary to make the most of your stay. This is the perfect NYC morning itinerary that will leave you feeling immersed in the heart of Manhattan while also soaking in all five boroughs. (Read on to see how that is possible!) The best part is this itinerary leaves your afternoon free so you can wander, explore, and let the city surprise you. 

BIRD’S-EYE MORNING VIEWS

There are few things on the planet more magical than watching the day’s first beams of light creep over the Manhattan skyline. The deep purples, vibrant pinks, and effervescent oranges radiate behind iconic NYC buildings such as the Empire State Building, Chrysler Building, and One World Observatory. For the absolute best vantage point, visit Top of the Rock Observation Deck as soon as it opens.

The earlier you visit any of New York City’s attractions the less crowded they will be. Top of the Rock is the same. If you are one of the first guests in, you might even have all three floors of Top of the Rock to yourself! This is perfect for taking those famous photographs you see online. The morning is also famous for being a photographer’s friend by having the best light. 

What sets Top of the Rock’s view apart from the other observation decks is its views of the Empire State Building and Central Park. Top of the Rock puts you at eye level with the Empire State Building. The Empire State Building is smack dab in the middle of your view, beautifully framed by the surrounding city. This is why so many locals claim Top of the Rock is the best observation deck in New York City.

In addition to the spectacular views of the Empire State Building, you can see all five boroughs, and even the Statue of Liberty, from Top of the Rock. This is how you can soak in the entire city in just a few moments. You can spend as much time as you would like exploring Top of the Rock’s three levels and expansive 360-degree views. When you are ready, head down to continue your perfect NYC morning.

BRUNCH

The Top of the Rock elevators take you to Rockefeller Center’s lower concourse. There are lots of dining options in the lower concourse at all different price points. You could simply grab a cup of coffee and a pastry at Bluestone Coffee or a doughnut at Dough. But for this itinerary, you’re going to sit down for a delightful brunch at the exquisite restaurant Five Acres. 

Five Acres has a vegetable-forward menu that changes seasonally. It’s the brainchild of chef Greg Baxtrom who truly poured his heart and soul into the restaurant. In fact, the wood used in the private dining room comes from Greg Baxtrom’s family farm! 

Every bite of food at Five Acres will put a smile on your face. They also have bubbly mimosas made with real champagne. The restaurant also has an “open-air” feel thanks to lush greenery decorating it, but is safe from the elements, completely indoors, at rink level in Rockefeller Plaza.

SKATING

The Rink at Rockefeller Center might be the most famous ice-skating rink in the world. It’s been featured in movies such as Elf, Home Alone 2: Lost in New York, Autumn in New York, and Mr. Deeds. In the wintertime, a morning skate or early afternoon at the rink is the perfect way to work off brunch.

In the summertime, Flipper’s Roller Boogie Palace takes up residence at Rockefeller Center. Starting at noon daily, you roller skate in the heart of Rockefeller Plaza while awesome tunes play through the loudspeakers. This is the best place to take a photo with the famous golden statue Prometheus. 

For both ice skating and roller skating, you will want to make reservations ahead of time. Skate times can sell out, especially in the busier months.

SHOPPING

Once you’ve finished skating, you can enjoy the unique shops around Rockefeller Center. Kids always squeal with glee when they notice there is both a Nintendo Store and a Lego Store in Rockefeller Center. Directly across from Rockefeller Center is the world-famous Saks Fifth Avenue. Saks is a luxury department store with several levels of high-end shopping. There are also more moderately priced stores such as Anthropologie in and around Rockefeller Center.

It’s also worth noting that across from Rockefeller Center is the majestic St. Patrick’s Cathedral. It is usually open to the public and all are free to walk in and wonder at the impressive architecture. This cathedral holds the title of “largest neo-gothic cathedral in the United States!” On holidays such as Easter and St. Patrick’s Day, parades begin at St. Patrick’s Cathedral, and they are always joyous occasions.

SHOW OFF YOUR PHOTOS

Surely you took some breathtaking photos at Top of the Rock or snapped some fun shots at the skating rink! Show these photos off to the world by putting them on a giant Times Square billboard. While this might sound prohibitively expensive, Welcome to Times Square has made it possible for just $150! Your photos will show at least 22 times throughout the day, 15 seconds each time, and you submit them the same day you want to see them illuminating the crossroads of the world. Simply visit timessquarebillboard.com to learn more! 

We have the unbeatable price of $500 per day for your Billboard:

Option 1: Your 60 second video/photo will be shown, 60 seconds per hour 22 times a day.

Option 2: Your 30 second video/photo will be shown, twice an hour, 44 times a day.

Option 3: Your 15 second video/photo will be shown 4 times per hour 88 times per day.

Please let us know which option you would like to choose. Remember that we have a response time of 72 hours.