I've lived in NYC for over 25 years and have only recently discovered a way to hit a few parts of the city I've never explored.

All in the same day. With incredible City views. For a reasonable price.

It's the NYC Ferry.

Overview

The ferry allows you to ride a boat across the East River from the East Side of Manhattan.

It zigzags between 5 stops in Manhattan (Wall St. through East 90th St.) and 12 stops in Brooklyn, Queens and Roosevelt Island. Passengers can sit on the boat's open 2nd deck in good weather, providing incredible views of the Manhattan skyline.

It costs $4 per ride or $27.50 for 10 rides.

Key Stops

The most frequented stops in Manhattan are Wall Street, East 34th and East 90th Streets.

In Brooklyn, you can get to the Brooklyn Bridge (DUMBO), Brooklyn Bridge and Domino Park. The ferry has also opened up access to Long Island City, Hunters Point and Astoria in Queens and Roosevelt Island, which sits in the East River between Manhattan and Queens.

By purchasing a Citibike day pass, you can zip through parts of Brooklyn and Queens so much quicker than on the subway.

Breweries and a pizza lunch

NOTE: I recommend splitting a pint with a friend or drinking a 4oz taster at each of your first two stops.

Disembark at Long Island City (Queens):

It's easy to walk to Fifth Hammer Brewing. Order a pizza for pickup at Roberta's in Domino Park, near your next stop. It will be ready when you arrive.

From Fifth Hammer, grab a Citibike and head to Other Half:

Cross the Pulaski Bridge and head to Domino Park. Pick up your pizza at Roberta's. Enjoy it with a cold Hazy IPA from Other Half next door.

Other Half to Evil Twin:

Pick up another Citibike near Other Half and ride to the Brooklyn Bridge. Visit your final stop, Evil Twin in DUMBO. They have incredible skills with fruited sours.

You can take the ferry back to Manhattan from the pier near Brooklyn Bridge.