New York City: A Stay at the InterContinental New York Barclay

Macy's—The World's Largest Store

For this trip, we traveled from Boston to New York City by Amtrak, which I highly recommend for anyone looking to skip the airport hassle. We took the Amtrak Regional from Boston to New York’s Penn Station and returned home on the Acela. While both are convenient, the Acela was noticeably faster, smoother, and more comfortable—ideal for business travelers or anyone wanting a more premium experience. If timing and comfort matter, Acela is absolutely worth it.

We stayed at the InterContinental New York Barclay, and it exceeded our expectations on every level. The location is ideal—quiet enough to feel calm, yet perfectly positioned near Madison Avenue, Grand Central, and Midtown highlights. The staff was consistently warm and attentive, and the overall feel of the hotel is polished, classic, and welcoming.

Lobby at Waldorf Astoria New York during holiday season

We received Club InterContinental access, which was a standout perk: a full breakfast each morning, snacks available throughout the day, and beer and wine offered in the early evening. A personal favorite detail? Cold brew coffee on tap—an underrated luxury that made mornings effortless.

Dining was a highlight of this trip and showcased just how diverse and high-quality New York’s food scene is, even within a compact radius. Le Pavillon was a standout dinner—an elegant yet approachable French restaurant that’s perfect for a special night out. For lighter or more casual options, Valerie impressed with what might be the best beet and burrata salad I’ve ever had, Parker & Quinn was ideal for a relaxed, no-fuss dinner, and Isla delivered an exceptional espresso martini—worth stopping in for alone.

Dinner at Parker & Quinn

One of the main events of the trip was seeing Phish at Madison Square Garden. My husband is a huge fan, and while the concert was incredible, I was equally excited to experience MSG itself. It’s massive, iconic, and surprisingly well-run given its size. Whether you’re attending a concert, sporting event, or show, Madison Square Garden is a quintessential New York experience and something I highly recommend building into an itinerary if the timing aligns.

Madison Square Garden

• Train travel tip: If you’re deciding between Amtrak Regional and Acela, Regional is perfectly fine for budget-conscious travelers, but Acela is ideal for shorter trips, comfort seekers, and business travelers.

• Hotel perks matter: Booking with advisor access can unlock valuable benefits like club access, upgrades, and personalized service—especially at properties like the InterContinental Barclay.

• Dining reservations: Restaurants like Le Pavillon should be booked in advance, especially on weekends.

• Location strategy: Staying in Midtown near transit hubs (like Grand Central) makes getting around the city incredibly easy without needing a car.

• Entertainment: If there’s a concert or event at MSG during your stay, it’s worth prioritizing—it’s an unforgettable venue.

For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our New York City page.