Curator’s statement
Sometimes the best escapes are right around the corner. As a local to the NYC area, I love making a staycation weekend in the city to enjoy a luxurious hotel, explore all that the city has to offer and not have to take a flight. Here are my top recommendations on how to create a staycation weekend that feels like you traveled far away. Reach out for help planning your next visit to NYC, or to enhance your stay with VIP amenities.
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Where to stay in New York City
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Where to stay in New York City
The Plaza - Palm Court
The Plaza
You likely know The Plaza from Home Alone or Eloise, and it lives up to its iconic reputation. Traditional yet modernized decor, luxurious rooms and suites, steps from Central Park and 5th Avenue, onsite spa, fitness and dining, including the popular afternoon tea at Palm Court. There are many suite types, including several with specialized decor, such as Eloise or Great Gatsby. This is the perfect stay for those seeking a quintessential NYC experience, proximity to Central Park and the feeling of being pampered.
The Ritz-Carlton New York, Central Park
Overlooking Central Park and 6th Avenue, there is no better place to stay to capture the panoramic park views or the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. Renovated in 2019, rooms are spacious, and suites offer various setups to accommodate families. Grab a cocktail at the Contour Bar before heading out to explore the city, or enjoy the famous La Prairie spa. This is the perfect stay for those seeking 5-star accommodations, proximity to Central Park and stunning views.
The Greenwich Hotel
Rich wood tones, artwork by Robert De Niro Sr., a spa with elements from Kyoto, Japan and a private garden transport you out of the city and into a relaxing, sophisticated escape. Enjoy the indoor pool and spa, or dine at the onsite Locanda Verde. This is the perfect stay for those seeking exclusivity and seclusion in the city, proximity to Tribeca, SoHo or the West Village, and decor with rich character.
The Beekman
This 19th century landmark has a full history as the original center of the theater district. The history is kept alive through unique touches throughout the hotel, such as decor paying homage to the writers and artists who filled the space. Rooms and suites carry through the same unique character, and the several onsite dining and bar options offer an elevated experience. This is the perfect stay for those seeking charm and unique decor, proximity to downtown and a touch of NYC history.
Hotel Barrière Fouquet's New York
Filled with pastels, art-deco pieces and Parisian influence, you’ll have an elevated experience with exceptional service. Enjoy the Spa Diane, dine at Brasserie Fouquet’s or explore the Tribeca neighborhood. This is the perfect stay for those seeking colorful decor, proximity to Tribeca or the West Village and the feeling of a European escape.
Four Seasons Hotel New York Downtown
With elegant decor and spacious rooms and suites, the Four Seasons Hotel Downtown offers guests a luxury retreat in downtown Manhattan. The onsite indoor pool and fitness center are very large, and the pool is reserved for hotel guests only. This is the perfect stay for those seeking crisp and modern decor, proximity to downtown and 5-star service.
Places to eat & drink in New York City
View from Manhattan
Manhatta: Upscale dining experience with panoramic views of NYC and contemporary creativity.
The Corner Store: A difficult-to-get reservation but a fantastic upscale take on classic American cuisine.
Polo Bar: Ralph Lauren’s first restaurant with a cozy, sophisticated ambience.
La Veau D’Or: New York’s oldest French bistro (reopened) in the Upper East Side.
Carbone: renowned Italian cuisine in Greenwich Village.
Need to know
What to do:
The key to making a staycation feel like a vacation is to explore parts of the city outside of your regular routine. For some, this might be seeing a Broadway show and for others, this could be exploring a speakeasy cocktail bar downtown. Personalize your staycation and enjoy the city from a different perspective.
Travel Advisor
Megan Freedman
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For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our New York City page.