New York City
I honestly am not sure how many times I have been to New York City but I would guess it is over 30. I have been there for work quite a bit and love to visit every few years. We try to do a long weekend with friends regularly, but have also taken our kids there in hopes they love it as much as us. They did! The energy, restaurants, activities and people watching are all worthy of a visit. We actually took our kids over Thanksgiving a few years ago as seeing the Macy’s Day Parade was on my bucket list. It was something all of us will remember. Below are some tips and some of our favorite things to do. We hope you enjoy it as much as us!
Hotels
Things to Do
Things to Do
There are countless hotels in New York City. You can stay everywhere from a large chain hotel to a smaller boutique hotel pending your preference. The important part is the location. If it is your first time, I suggest staying near the Theater District. While it is a LOT busier, it is where Times Square is, Broadway, restaurants and its not too far from Central Park. My home away from home for years when I traveled for work was the Marriott Marquis. Great hotel with a cool lobby bar overlooking Times Square.
Things to Do
Things to Do
Things to Do
Central Park: this is a great activity with or without kids. It is massive and inside the park you can take a carriage ride, rent bikes, stroll through the park, watch street performers, row a boat or grab lunch at the Boathouse. It is a must every time we visit.
Broadway Shows: we love going to the theater and took our kids to a show while we were there as well. You can secure tickets for a discount the day of at the TKTS booth in Times Square if you are flexible on which show to see.
Times Square: a must visit for first timers!
Shopping: it is everywhere! My favorite spot to shop is in SoHo. While you are there, you can head to John’s and grab a slice of their famous pizza.
Statue of Liberty: there are ferry boats all over Battery park that will take you around or to the Statue of Liberty. We opted to see from the boat rather than go there, but I have heard it is worth visiting.
Comedy Show: we have seen a few shows and got tickets to the Comedy Cellar which attracts big comedians to perform. Guaranteed laughs.
Top of the Rock: this is a great place to see the city from a different viewpoint. You can visit the Observation deck to see the skyline and grab some pictures. An alternative place for a view is the top of the Empire State Building. Tickets are required for both.
9/11 Museum: I have been here a few times to pay respects and to teach my kids more about that event in history.
Dining
Things to Do
Dining
Where do I start? New York is home to some of the BEST restaurants. Below is a list of some of our favorites, although not comprehensive.
Nobu: we love the sushi here and the vibe. You need a reservation and it is very pricey.
Katz’s Delicatessen: this is an iconic deli known for its mile high sandwiches. Get the Ruben!
One if by Land, Two if by Sea: this is the restaurant we got engaged at. It is an old carriage house with a romantic ambiance. Dark lighting, candle light and award-winning food.
Dante West Village – great ambiance to grab a cocktail!
Liberty Bagels: great spot for grabbing a bagel or breakfast sandwich.
Carbone: get the spicy rigatoni. You won’t regret it!
Toloache: this is located in the Theater district so we ate here on a whim before a show and loved it. The vibe and atmosphere are lively and the food is delicious. We have been repeat diners here!
Serendipity3: A really fun place for kids! This is an old school restaurant that is decorated in every vintage sign and décor you can imagine. While the food is okay, take the kids here for the Frozen Hot Chocolate – best we have ever had!
