Your 24-hour itinerary: The Main Eventer

Starting at Gansevoort Street and newly extended to 34th Street, this elevated walking path (converted from a freight rail line) is a lovely slice of nature in the city. And the earlier you go, the less likely you’ll be stuck in a single-file line of tourists with selfie sticks.

The world-famous modern art museum could keep you captivated for hours—especially considering the current Bjork retrospective, featuring three floors of sounds, video, costumes and more. Make sure to hit both gift shops (one’s across the street) for eclectic kitchenware, cards and much more.  

The five-inch-high stack of juicy pastrami balanced precariously between slices of rye bread at this iconic NYC deli could build five normal-sized sandwiches. Prepare for leftovers.

Feeding times change daily at the New York Aquarium (check the board once you arrive), but linger for an afternoon of spying on sea creatures and you’ll surely see at least one of these adorable animals gobble up its lunch.

Find any of the three TKTs booths in Manhattan and Brooklyn, which start selling cheapo tickets—up to 50% off!—for evening shows at 3pm. Choose from a long list of Broadway and Off Broadway musicals, plays and dance productions.

The AMC Loews in Lincoln Square was one of the first in the country to open an IMAX theater. And at 600 seats, the space is still one of the biggest in the U.S.

Brandish the supersaver tickets you scored earlier today (see 3pm) and sit back to see some of the country’s finest actors do their thing in some of the country’s most iconic theaters.

Matthew Broderick, Nathan Lane and Mel Brooks are all investors in this Theater District restaurant, so you’ll often see them and other hot performers dining here after shows. Play it cool!

Feel fancy among the mahogany walls, spiral staircases and warmly lit bookshelves at this NYC classic, where the only thing better than the décor is the classic cocktails. No, it’s not lame to order a Manhattan.

Late-night jazz is a hallmark of the New York nightlife scene, and this unmarked spot (look for the blue light and smokers outside) is the place to see it. Be prepared to pack into a tiny space, which spills out into a backyard garden on warm nights.

As seen forever ago on Sex and the City, this restaurant—a sleeker take on a 24-hour diner—has still got serious street cred. From fried chicken and waffles to mac ‘n’ cheese spring rolls, you can’t go wrong.

The iconic green space closes from 1am-6am. Head here at opening to watch the city wake up alongside its most hardcore joggers—and fit in a run without having to dodge horse carriages and kids.

Cupcakes are the famous dessert at Magnolia Bakery, but locals know the creamy banana pudding, littered with crunchy vanilla wafers, is the way to go. Just make sure you hit the Rock Center location—the only one in the city to open at 7am.