Planning a NYC staycation – Your start-to-finish guide
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If reading the stories about the shortage of air traffic controllers, disruptive flight cancellations, and the alarming increase in “air rage” by airline passengers is making you hesitant to book your next getaway, I have the perfect solution for you. Many New Yorkers, as well as people in the Tri-state area, are finding joy in a staycation, offering a chance to recharge and take advantage of what most vacationers use so much energy to get here – traveling. Whether it’s a holiday weekend or a full-fledged week-long visit, we’ve got you covered.
It all begins with the right mindset. You are booking a vacation getaway without the need for a neck pillow and noise-cancelling headphones for the flight. No middle-seat worries for you, or the kids yelling “Are we there yet?” Reallocating the money you would have spent on a flight and adding those lost travel days to make the most of your vacation.
As with anything we do, there are two options: winging it or planning out the big decisions, such as the perfect hotel, some bucket-list restaurants, and must-see attractions, and then leaving space for spur-of-the-moment adventures.
The last thing you want to think of yourself as is a tourist. You’re a local, and even though the energy of the city is second-nature, you can still embrace your sense of adventure and enjoy what others come from around the world to experience.
If you’re a little rusty in planning a vacation, allow me to walk you through the process. We’ll go from the big picture and work our way down to the small details. Let’s use the 4 W’s to put all the facts together.
Table of Contents
Who will be going? Is it just you, or you and your significant other? Are you bringing kids, pets? Now that you’ve identified all the participants, we can plan accordingly to meet everyone’s needs.
When are you going? If your arrival and departure dates are firm, due to pre-determined off days or school time, you should start your search as soon as possible. If you have flexibility, you could take advantage of lower hotel rates by booking right after a holiday or big convention, when occupancy is reduced.
Another aspect of “when” is the season. This can change your desire for a fireplace in your room or an outdoor swimming pool as part of the amenities in your wishlist.
Why are you going? The more people involved, the longer this answer will be. Here are just some of the reasons why. Feel free to choose any or all of them:
1 – Relaxation – You want to unplug from the news, social media, and all negativity, and focus solely on yourself. Sounds like some pampering is in order here.
2 – Romance – with a vacation for two focused on quality time together, the city delivers big-time with options that don’t require pre-planning.
3 – Culture – One of the city’s crown jewels is its incredible array of choices to fill your senses, featuring an endless selection of museums, exhibitions, art galleries, opera, dance, and other live entertainment options.
4 – Broadway – Some vacations are planned entirely around the shows you’ll be seeing. Whether you buy your tickets months in advance or prefer to see what’s available last minute, there are few things as memorable as seeing a Broadway (or Off-Broadway) show.
5 – Bringing the kids – With kids in tow, there are many more things to consider, including hotel accommodations tailored to their ages, such as cribs, babysitting, connecting rooms, and access to a swimming pool. The last thing you want to hear is “I’m bored!”. We’ve got you covered, from filling their brains to their bellies and tiring them out for a good night’s sleep, with memories they’ll remember forever.
6 – Food – From street food to Michelin-starred restaurants and everything in between, picking the right restaurants may define the lasting memories of this trip. If you have a special place in mind that you must experience, we’ll provide you with some tips to get you there.
7 – Shopping – Whether you like to look or want something special and unique, nothing tops the stores of New York City. Every retailer is here, and the luxury stores, in particular, pull out all the stops to wow you and get you in the door. From upscale and fancy, to trendy and low-key, from Fifth Avenue to Madison Avenue to Soho – it’s all here.
8 – Sporting events – depending on the season, there’s always something amazing happening in the world of sports here in the city. From Madison Square Garden to CitiField to Yankee Stadium, you’ve got the Mets, the Yankees, US Open Tennis, Football Club Soccer, the Knicks, New York Liberty Basketball, Red Bulls Soccer, NYC Marathon – to name a few.
9 – Getting Back to Nature – Yes, Nature – If you think your choices are limited to just a luxury room in a swanky hotel, you’re in for a nice surprise. You can experience the best of both worlds – luxury amenities and camping (glamping) – without leaving Manhattan. Check out The Collective on Governor’s Island.
10 – Holiday Celebrations and seasonal events – New York City is renowned for numerous events that celebrate various holidays throughout the year. From New Year’s Eve in Times Square to 4th of July Fireworks to the Macy’s Thanksgiving Parade, make these moments real instead of just watching them on TV.
Where will you stay? Let’s start with the location. While Manhattan is only 23 square miles overall, choosing the right part of town can make or break your trip.
As you’ll see on our map, the majority of hotels are located in Midtown or nearby. This area is bustling with energy, featuring fast-moving people, cars, bikes, and buses. Fear not, there are so many choices away from the middle of it all. From Central Park to downtown, to Brooklyn and beyond – the perfect combination is waiting for you.
Now that you’re clearer about why you’re going, let’s narrow down your hotel choices. Using PowerSearchTM, you’ll choose all that are important to you, and see which hotels are the best match, check for availability, and book your stay – all in one place.
Getting Here
If you’re traveling from anywhere in the Northeast, taking the train is the most sensible option. You’ll arrive at either Penn Station, which is on the west side of Manhattan at 8th and 34th Street, or Grand Central, which is located at 43rd and Lexington Avenue, on the east side of Manhattan.
If you’re driving into the city, there’s really no need to park your car here, whether it’s self-serve or valet. It’s very expensive and unnecessary, unless you’re planning a side trip outside the city (I’d still take a train instead). I suggest parking your car at one of the long-term parking lots at either LaGuardia or JFK airports and taking the train from there into the city.
Choosing the right hotel with confidence
Once you know where you’re staying, the rest of your trip should fall easily into place. With PowerSearchTM, choose the amenities that fit your needs.
Using the examples I outlined earlier, here are some of the amenities you might choose based on your type of stay:
1 – Relaxation and Romance– Bathtub, Butler Service, Fireplace, Luxury Bed, Outdoor Terrace/Balcony, Pillow Service, Room Service, Spa, Swimming Pool, Wellness Center. By using your unique combination of choices, your results might include: Nine Orchard, The Chatwal, The Surrey, Casa Cipriani, and the Four Seasons Hotel – New York.
2 – Bringing the kids – Babysitting, Bathtub, Connecting/Adjoining Rooms, Cribs, Kid-Friendly, Kitchenette, Swimming Pool (indoor or outdoor). Some of the search results include: Gild Hall, The Marmara Park Avenue, The St. Regis, and The Ritz-Carlton Central Park.
3 – Bringing a pet – Dog Park access, Pet-Friendly (free), or Pet-Friendly. Be sure to check the specifics for any fees, restrictions, and rules regarding bringing your pet. Your results may include: The Roxy, Soho Grand, Kimpton Theta, and the Equinox Hotel – Hudson Yards.
Iconic NYC Adventures Reimagined for Your Staycation
New York City is filled with iconic NYC landmarks. Each tells a story of the city’s aspirations and its diverse population. A staycation offers the opportunity to revisit these famous places with a fresh perspective, free from the usual tourist rush.
The Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island
The Statue of Liberty stands majestically in the harbor, a symbol of freedom. A visit to Liberty Island to see her up close is a profound experience, yet many New Yorkers have never been there. The ferry ride itself provides incredible views of the Manhattan skyline, perfect for any New York City adventure.
Nearby, the Ellis Island museum powerfully recounts the stories of immigrants. This visit adds a rich understanding of our city’s history. For another perspective on Lady Liberty and the skyline, consider the Staten Island Ferry; this free ferry offers fantastic photo opportunities.
The island ferry itself is a classic New York experience, beloved by locals and visitors alike. Taking the Staten Island Ferry is a great option for budget-friendly sightseeing. It provides a relaxing journey across the water, passing Governor’s Island and offering views of the Verrazzano Bridge in the distance.
The Empire State Building and Other Observation Decks
A visit to the Empire State Building is a quintessential New York experience, even on a staycation. Ascending to its observation decks offers unparalleled city views. Whether by day or by night, when the city lights sparkle, it is a breathtaking sight.
This is one of those NYC staycation ideas that reminds you of the city’s grandeur. Consider other viewpoints too, like Top of the Rock at Rockefeller Center, Edge at Hudson Yards, or Summit One Vanderbilt. Each offers a different angle on the sprawling metropolis, making for incredible photo opportunities.
Times Square’s Electric Atmosphere
Times Square is the vibrant core of Midtown Manhattan. With its dazzling neon billboards and bustling crowds, it pulses with energy. It showcases NYC’s role as a global entertainment hub, especially in the wee hours when the lights seem brightest.
While intense, its unique vibrancy is undeniably New York. Nearby, you’ll find attractions like Madame Tussauds and numerous theaters. Union Square, further downtown, offers a different kind of public space, often with markets, street performers, and a lively local scene.
Central Park & The Brooklyn Bridge
Beyond the skyscrapers, New York City boasts incredible beauty and tranquility. Central Park is a vast green oasis amid the concrete. It beckons exploration of its winding paths, serene lakes, and famed spots like Bethesda Terrace, Strawberry Fields, and Belvedere Castle.
Do not miss the Central Park Zoo for a family-friendly activity or a quiet visit to Shakespeare Garden. Consider a leisurely boat ride on The Lake or a visit to the Conservatory Garden for a more peaceful experience. This iconic park offers endless possibilities for relaxation and recreation, making it a cornerstone of many NYC staycation ideas.
Walking across the Brooklyn Bridge, linking Manhattan and Brooklyn, offers stunning views and a connection to architectural history. This landmark captures New York’s spirit. At the foot of the bridge on the Brooklyn side, Brooklyn Bridge Park awaits with recreational piers, lush lawns, and unparalleled views back at the Manhattan skyline and the East River.
This bridge park is a destination in itself, perfect for a picnic, a bike ride, or a leisurely stroll along the waterfront. You can easily spend an afternoon enjoying the green spaces, public art installations, and recreational facilities. It is a wonderful way to see the iconic NYC skyline from a new vantage point, especially at sunset from Point Brooklyn.
Roosevelt Island Tramway
For a different kind of aerial view and a charming escape, take the Roosevelt Island Tramway. This tram glides over the East River, offering picturesque scenes of Midtown East and the Queensboro Bridge. Roosevelt Island itself provides peaceful walking paths, like the Franklin D. Roosevelt Four Freedoms Park, and unique perspectives of the city.
It’s a quick and affordable trip, offering a quiet retreat from Manhattan’s bustle. The island has parks and historical landmarks, making it a worthwhile detour. This is one of those less common NYC staycation ideas that offers a lot of charm and impressive views without the crowds of other observation points.
NYC Staycation Ideas: The Magic of Broadway and Entertainment
Enjoying a Broadway show is a classic New York City indulgence. Broadway remains the premier destination for live theater. You can witness timeless hits, thrilling musicals, and profound dramas brought to life on stage.
Experiencing a Show Differently
Whether you prefer long-running productions like The Lion King or seek to discover new works, Broadway offers a vast selection. For locals on a staycation, an afternoon matinee is an excellent choice. This allows you to experience theatrical magic while leaving your evening free for dinner or exploring other vibrant neighborhoods.
Times Square, the entry point to Broadway, provides a stimulating backdrop, particularly at night with its dazzling lights. Consider looking for last-minute tickets at the TKTS booth for a spontaneous treat. Many locals find this a good way to see shows without extensive planning, making it one of the flexible NYC staycation ideas.
Beyond Broadway: More Entertainment Options
However, Broadway is not the sole entertainment option in this dynamic city. If theater is not your primary focus, numerous other attractions await. Legendary venues like Carnegie Hall and Radio City Music Hall host concerts by world-renowned musicians and spectacular stage shows.
Radio City is an art deco masterpiece, and seeing a performance at this music hall is an event in itself. The Christmas Spectacular at Radio City Music Hall is an iconic NYC tradition, but it hosts events year-round. Throughout the year, the city music hall hosts a variety of performers, from pop stars to comedians.
For those who enjoy live music, the city is teeming with options. You can find intimate clubs offering live jazz in Greenwich Village or the West Village, or larger venues like the Barclays Center or Madison Square Garden showcasing diverse genres. Cozy comedy clubs in areas like the East Village provide evenings filled with laughter from top comedians and rising stars.
If cinema is your preference, New York’s varied theaters, from historic movie palaces to independent cinemas like Film Forum or the Roxy Theatre in Tribeca, screen everything from major blockbusters to arthouse films. New York City always has something exciting happening, ensuring a good time for all entertainment seekers during their weekend getaways.
Finding Peace: Outdoor Escapes in the City
Many New Yorkers cherish Central Park for weekend outings or after-work unwinding. It remains a premier destination for a staycation as well. The park provides abundant activities year-round, from summer picnics on the Great Lawn to ice skating at Wollman Rink in winter.
This iconic park, bordered by Central Park West and Fifth Avenue, is a green haven. Its vastness allows for endless discovery, from the Ramble’s wild paths to the North Woods. Consider exploring areas like Central Park South for different entry points and experiences near Columbus Circle.
Familiar Parks, New Perspectives
Simply finding a bench to enjoy a coffee and observe the model boats at Conservatory Water can be a tranquil escape. A weekday visit to Central Park often offers a calmer experience than bustling weekends. For those new to its charms, meandering its paths is a delightful way to encounter one of New York’s most celebrated green spaces.
The High Line is another excellent choice for an urban oasis. This elevated park, built on a former railway, presents distinctive city views and beautifully landscaped gardens. While it can be popular, especially on sunny days, its design offers many nooks for quiet contemplation and art installations.
Battery Park, at the southern tip of Manhattan, offers refreshing breezes from the harbor and views of the Statue of Liberty. It is a historic area with gardens, memorials, and access to ferries, perfect for a contemplative walk. Hudson Yards also features public green spaces, including the Vessel (check for access) and Edge observation deck, art installations, and striking modern architecture, providing a newer outdoor experience.
Discovering Hidden Green Gems and Other Boroughs
New York City also boasts many lesser-known parks that are well worth exploring. Flushing Meadows Corona Park in Queens, site of two World’s Fairs, and Prospect Park in Brooklyn, designed by the same architects as Central Park, are fantastic options. These expansive green spaces, often overlooked by those unfamiliar with the outer boroughs, offer immense recreational opportunities, including boating, sports fields, and nature trails.
For a true retreat, Pelham Bay Park in the Bronx, the city’s largest park, provides remarkable natural landscapes, Orchard Beach, and wildlife. It offers a surprising contrast to the typical city environment. Even a trip to Long Island can feel like a mini-vacation, with its beaches and charming towns. Although it’s a bit beyond the typical NYC staycation boundary, it’s easy to access for a day trip.
Exploring green spaces in different boroughs like Brooklyn can provide a refreshing change of scenery. Brooklyn Bridge Park offers stunning views and recreational facilities along the East River. Other notable Brooklyn parks include Fort Greene Park and McCarren Park, each with its unique community feel.
Active Exploration: Biking the City
Before I extoll the virtues of biking around the city, allow me to repeat my favorite warning, “This is not Disneyland.” The streets of the city are dangerous and unforgiving. Pedestrians and bicyclists get hurt, or worse, almost every day. Drivers are reckless and in a rush, and you may have the “right” to be in a bike lane, but if they hit you, well, enough said. If a driver or passenger opens their door while you’re riding by, your staycation may get relocated to the local ER. Bike riding can be amazing, but why not reduce your risk, especially if you’ve got kids with you.
Here are my suggestions for beautiful, safe paths and scenic routes. At the top of my list is the Roosevelt Island Greenway. The entire island is car-free (you take the tram over), so this is as carefree as you can get. Check out The Graduate Hotel on Roosevelt Island to truly experience an oasis in the middle of the city.
Biking allows you to cover more ground and appreciate diverse sights. New York City offers excellent bike paths, such as the scenic Hudson River Greenway, the East River Greenway, and routes across the Brooklyn Bridge and Manhattan Bridge.
It is a fantastic way to enjoy the city’s open spaces and waterfronts.
A Culinary Journey: Savoring NYC on Your Staycation
Discovering New York City’s food scene is a significant pleasure for any food enthusiast. The city presents flavors to suit every palate. For those who wish to indulge, New York City features numerous Michelin-starred restaurants, each offering a distinct and memorable dining experience.
Indulgent Dining & Hotel Options
Staying almost anywhere in Manhattan or Brooklyn allows for exceptional dining experiences without the need for extensive travel, adding a luxurious and convenient element to your NYC staycation ideas.
Food Markets & Tours: A Guided Taste Adventure
To fully immerse yourself in the city’s food culture, consider a food tour or exploring a bustling food market. Chelsea Market, an indoor food hall in the Meatpacking District, offers a wide array of vendors, from seafood to baked goods. It is a lively spot to sample different cuisines under one roof, making it a great option for a varied lunch.
Food tours combine culinary adventures with cultural exploration. You could sample Asian delicacies in Chinatown or traditional Italian dishes in Little Italy. Some tours delve into historic areas, such as Arthur Avenue in the Bronx (the “real” Little Italy) or the diverse offerings of Sunset Park in Brooklyn, which is known for its Asian and Latin American cuisine.
If beverages are more your interest, craft beer tours offer a unique tasting experience through local breweries in Brooklyn and Queens. Many vibrant neighborhoods have their distinct culinary character. Exploring these areas is a treat for the senses, uncovering hidden gems and local favorites.
Beyond the Tourist Hotspots: Local Eateries & Coffee Shops
A staycation in NYC provides the perfect opportunity to venture beyond the city center. You can uncover hidden gem restaurants in various boroughs and vibrant neighborhoods. From iconic pizzerias in Brooklyn to authentic dim sum in Queens, the options are boundless; the city boasts an incredible diversity of food.
Don’t forget the city’s thriving coffee shop culture. Numerous independent coffee shops offer expertly brewed beverages and cozy atmospheres, perfect for a morning pick-me-up or an afternoon break while people-watching. Finding local favorites, from famous ice cream parlors to gourmet food trucks, is part of the joy of a New York staycation.
The city boasts countless eateries offering every imaginable cuisine. Whether you crave spicy Thai, comforting soul food, or innovative fusion dishes, you will find it here. Exploring the culinary landscape is an adventure in itself, and it’s easy to find something delicious, regardless of your budget.
Immerse Yourself: Arts and Culture Staycation Highlights
New York City hosts some of the world’s most prestigious museums and art galleries. This makes it a haven for art aficionados and history buffs. A staycation offers the perfect opportunity to explore these cultural institutions at a leisurely pace.
World-Class Museums at Your Leisure
The Metropolitan Museum of Art and the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) are essential visits. Their collections span from ancient wonders to contemporary art. The Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum, with its iconic spiral architecture designed by Frank Lloyd Wright, is another key cultural destination showcasing impressive exhibitions.
The Whitney Museum of American Art offers an extensive view of American art and culture, particularly from the 20th and 21st centuries. For science and history enthusiasts, the American Museum of Natural History is a must-see, with its fascinating exhibits on dinosaurs, ocean life, and human origins. This museum of natural history provides an engaging experience for all ages, from the Hayden Planetarium to the Milstein Hall of Ocean Life.
A staycation is perfect for New Yorkers to visit those places they have always intended to see but have not found the time for. Consider exploring smaller, specialized museums too, like the Tenement Museum on the Lower East Side or the Morgan Library & Museum. The New York Public Library’s main branch on Fifth Avenue, the Stephen A. Schwarzman Building, is also a stunning architectural and cultural landmark worth visiting, with impressive reading rooms and exhibitions.
Exploring History and Neighborhoods on Foot
Beyond museums, consider discovering the city through a guided walking tour. These tours offer insightful perspectives on New York’s historic sites, such as Federal Hall on Wall Street, and hidden gems. They cater to a variety of interests, from architectural history to culinary explorations of vibrant neighborhoods like Greenwich Village or Harlem.
Walking tours are an excellent way to connect with the city’s rich past and dynamic present. You can explore the historic streets of the West Village, the financial powerhouses around Wall Street, or the artistic legacy of SoHo. You will undoubtedly find a tour that piques your interest and enriches your understanding of this multifaceted city.
Exploring different areas, like the Financial District, can offer insights into the city’s economic history and early development. Many tours focus on specific themes, such as street art in Bushwick, Brooklyn, or historical periods like the Gilded Age. This allows for a more focused exploration of New York City’s diverse stories and cultures.
Creating Your Perfect Romantic NYC Staycation
A staycation can be exceptionally romantic, offering a chance to connect with your partner away from daily routines. Considering romantic NYC staycation ideas can lead to truly special and memorable moments together. It is time to focus on each other in the city you both love.
Setting the Scene: Luxury Accommodations
Selecting a high-end city hotel can significantly enhance the romantic atmosphere. The comfort of a beautifully appointed suite, perhaps one with sweeping views of the Manhattan skyline or the East River, makes a considerable difference. Small luxuries, such as in-room dining or room service with breakfast in bed, contribute to a pampered hotel experience.
Imagine soft lighting, a luxurious bed, and simply enjoying each other’s presence; this is what a romantic night during a staycation can provide. Some guest rooms might feature a deep soaking tub or a walk-in shower for two. Thoughtful amenities create a perfect backdrop for romance.
Romantic Activities for Two in the Big Apple
Numerous activities can make your staycation particularly special. Enjoy sunset cocktails, perhaps with some sparkling rosé, at a chic rooftop bar overlooking the glittering city lights. Consider a couples spa treatment for shared relaxation and rejuvenation at one of the city’s many spas.
Take long, leisurely strolls through enchanting neighborhoods like the West Village, with its cobblestone streets and charming boutiques, or Brooklyn Heights, known for its promenade and historic brownstones. Just enjoying each other’s company in these settings can be wonderfully romantic. An intimate dinner at a cozy restaurant, perhaps one serving modern French cuisine you have always wished to try, can be the perfect culmination of your day.
These simple pleasures become extraordinary when experienced in the relaxed state of a staycation. You could also attend a live jazz performance in a dimly lit club, take a sunset cruise around the harbor, or even try a cooking class together. The key is to choose activities that you both will cherish, creating a memorable romantic escape within New York City for a truly good time.
Final Thoughts
Ultimately, exploring NYC staycation ideas allows you to give yourself a genuine break without departing the city you cherish. It is an opportunity to rediscover your affection for New York City, viewing it with refreshed and relaxed eyes. You can bypass travel-related stress and immerse yourself directly in new experiences, tranquil moments, and delightful culinary adventures, from a bustling coffee shop to an elegant on-site restaurant.
These NYC staycation ideas, covering everything from iconic NYC landmarks like the Brooklyn Bridge and Central Park to luxurious hotel stays at places such as The Wall Street Hotel or The William Vale, hopefully inspire your planning. Consider a ride on the Staten Island Ferry for amazing skyline views, an afternoon in Brooklyn Bridge Park, or exploring vibrant neighborhoods and green spaces from Battery Park to Hudson Yards. Whether it is a romantic getaway or a solo adventure, New York City offers endless possibilities for a memorable hotel stay.
From the sweeping views offered by a rooftop bar to the cultural richness of the Metropolitan Museum or the American Museum of Natural History, your perfect city escape awaits. You deserve to uncover the magic that the Big Apple holds, right in your own backyard, perhaps even finding a new favorite spot in Union Square or enjoying the exhibits at the Guggenheim Museum. It is time to enjoy all that New York has to offer, creating a good time without going far.
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