Manhattan · Midtown and the park
Walk up Fifth Avenue from Rockefeller Center, then turn into Central Park near 59th Street. Fifth Avenue route
Sightseeing / Neighborhoods
The five boroughs of New York City
Understand the difference between New York City and Manhattan, and choose a half-day route in Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, the Bronx or Staten Island.
What are the five boroughs of NYC?
New York City is in New York State. It consists of Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, the Bronx and Staten Island. Manhattan is one borough. A good first trip can cover a few landmarks and still leave time to explore a neighborhood in another borough.
A half-day idea in each borough
Brooklyn · DUMBO and Brooklyn Heights
Start near Jane’s Carousel, follow the waterfront to Pier 1, then head uphill to the Brooklyn Heights Promenade. DUMBO guide
Queens · Jackson Heights or Long Island City
For a food walk, start near Roosevelt Avenue and 74th Street. For a skyline afternoon, choose the Long Island City waterfront. Jackson Heights guide · Skyline viewpoints
The Bronx · Belmont and Arthur Avenue
Choose lunch and a bakery stop along Arthur Avenue, or make a longer day by pairing it with the Botanical Garden. Arthur Avenue guide
Staten Island · St. George and the North Shore
Ride the free ferry from Lower Manhattan, then explore St. George or continue to Snug Harbor. Confirm venue hours before leaving. St. George guide
How to fit them into a trip
Group nearby stops together and check the return route if you’ll be out late. If you only have a free half day, pick one borough outing that matches what you most want to do. Use the individual neighborhood guides to find nearby restaurants and public spaces.