The Secret Street

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Planning a trip to New York City? With so much to see and do, it can be overwhelming to fit everything into a week. This itinerary blends iconic landmarks, cultural experiences, engaging tours, and some of the best vegetarian and vegan eats NYC has to offer to help you make the most of your time in the Big Apple.

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Day 1: Arrival & Exploring Lower Manhattan

• Check into your hotel and get familiar with the subway system (grab a MetroCard!).
• Take a stroll through Lower Manhattan, visiting landmarks like the World Trade Center, The Oculus, and Battery Park.
• If time allows, take the free Staten Island Ferry for fantastic views of the Statue of Liberty. The ferry runs 24/7 and departs every 30 minutes from Whitehall Terminal in Lower Manhattan. The round trip takes about 50 minutes, offering stunning views of the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, and the Manhattan skyline—all for free!
• Walk to Wall Street to see the famous Charging Bull and Fearless Girl statues.
• Explore Stone Street, one of the oldest streets in NYC, with great restaurants and bars.
• Where to Eat: Spicy Moon (affordable and flavorful vegetarian Szechuan dishes in Chinatown) or The Original Buddha Bodai Kosher Vegetarian (a Chinatown staple for delicious dim sum and plant-based Chinese cuisine).

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Day 2: Central Park & Midtown Highlights

• Explore Central Park: Take a walk or rent a bike to explore the park’s history, scenic paths, and famous landmarks.
• Visit an art museum such as the MoMA or The Met.
• Explore Midtown’s famous landmarks: Times Square, Rockefeller Center, and Grand Central Terminal.
• Visit the Chrysler Building and the New York Public Library for stunning architecture.
• Enjoy city views from an observation deck like the Empire State Building or Top of the Rock.
• Where to Eat: PLNT Burger (casual plant-based burgers) or Le Botaniste (plant-based, organic bowls with a focus on wellness) or Beyond Sushi (innovative plant-based sushi and small bites).

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Day 3: History & Broadway

• 9/11 Memorial & Museum: Arrive early to secure tickets and explore the moving exhibits.
• One World Observatory: Take in panoramic views from the tallest building in the Western Hemisphere.
• Walk through the Financial District and Trinity Church.
• Take a walking tour of SoHo, Chinatown, and Little Italy to learn about their rich histories.
• Visit Broadway and Times Square—stop by the Stranger Things Official Store if you’re a fan!
• Broadway Show: Book a ticket for an evening performance of a hit musical.
• Where to Eat: Nix (vegetable-forward fine dining in Greenwich Village) or Superiority Burger (a cult-favorite vegetarian spot known for its creative, flavorful veggie burgers and sides).

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Day 4: Shopping & Downtown Adventures

• Shopping Spree: Visit Macy’s, FAO Schwarz, and the Flatiron Building.
• Stop by the Harry Potter New York Store (935 Broadway), the largest Harry Potter store in the world, for exclusive merchandise, immersive VR experiences, and Butterbeer.
• Chelsea Market: A must-visit for food lovers, housed in the old Nabisco factory (home of the Oreo!).
• Explore the High Line, an elevated park with unique art installations.
• Visit the Hudson Yards district and see The Vessel.
• The Edge Observatory: One of NYC’s newest and highest observation decks.
• Play board games at The Uncommons, a fun café offering a huge selection of games.
• Where to Eat: Jajaja Mexicana (trendy, colorful vegan Mexican spot with tacos and cocktails) or Delice & Sarrasin (charming French bistro offering plant-based versions of classics like crêpes, escargots, and steak frites).

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Day 5: Brooklyn & Unique Experiences

• Walk across the Brooklyn Bridge for amazing skyline views.
• Explore DUMBO, a picturesque neighborhood with cobblestone streets and great photo spots. Rooftop Drinks: Head to Time Out Market Rooftop for spectacular views.
• Take in the iconic view from Washington Street, one of the most photographed spots in NYC.
• Head to Williamsburg for street art, vintage shopping, and waterfront views.
• Visit Domino Park and Bushwick to check out some of the best murals in NYC.
• Take the Roosevelt Island Tramway for stunning aerial views of Manhattan.
• End the day with a visit to a speakeasy bar or live jazz club.
• Where to Eat: Hartbreakers (retro-inspired vegan comfort food with crispy sandwiches and loaded fries) or Modern Love Brooklyn (elevated plant-based dining featuring mac and cheese and hearty mains).

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Day 6: Harlem & Uptown Discoveries

• Gospel Mass: Experience an authentic Harlem gospel service at a local church, such as Bethel Gospel Assembly or First Corinthian Baptist Church. Expect powerful choir performances and a welcoming atmosphere. Arrive early for a good seat, dress modestly, and avoid photos or videos during the service.
• Walk through Harlem and visit the Apollo Theater and the “Walk of Fame.”
• Explore Columbia University’s historic campus.
• Relax at Riverside Park or Morningside Park.
• Visit the American Museum of Natural History to see dinosaur fossils and the giant blue whale exhibit.
• Visit Magnolia Bakery for their famous banana pudding.
• Where to Eat: Fieldtrip (fast-casual grain bowl spot with globally inspired flavors) or Seasoned Vegan (soul food classics like BBQ crawfish, mac and cheese, and po’ boys—all plant-based).

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Day 7: Final Day & Last-Minute Sightseeing

• Walk along Fifth Avenue and browse luxury stores.
• Stop by Hershey’s Chocolate World, M&M’s World, and the Disney Store for fun souvenirs and themed merchandise.
• Explore the iconic Plaza Hotel and grab a coffee inside.
• Take a final stroll through Central Park or visit the Metropolitan Museum of Art if you missed it earlier.
• Stop by Levain Bakery for one of NYC’s most famous cookies.
• Where to Eat: Le Botaniste (organic, European-style plant-based bowls and spreads) or PLNT Burger (quick, satisfying vegan fast food with delicious shakes).

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Must-Try NYC Pizza

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Travel Tips for NYC:

• Subway: Get a MetroCard for easy travel. A 7-day unlimited pass is a great deal for frequent rides.
• Passes: Consider getting a CityPASS or New York Pass to save money on attractions.
• Reservations: Some attractions require advance booking—check ahead to avoid missing out.
• Walking: Be prepared to walk a lot! Comfortable shoes are a must.
• Tipping: Tipping is customary in restaurants, bars, and for taxi rides (around 15-20%).

This itinerary blends must-see attractions, unique experiences, and delicious eats to give you an unforgettable NYC adventure. Whether it’s your first visit or a return trip, there’s always something new to explore. Enjoy your journey!