It’s difficult to have a bad time in NYC, but if pizza and Coney Island aren’t your idea of an ideal vacation, make sure your vacation to NYC is luxurious, iconic and unforgettable with these tips for where to stay, eat, drink and play.
Stay
There is no more iconic a hotel than the Plaza, which has set the standard for NYC luxury for more than 100 years. If you are traveling with children, they will love to explore the backdrop of the beloved Eloise series, and can even have a tea party in an Eloise-themed tea room or watch their favorite scenes in the library. Even if you don’t end up staying at the Plaza, make sure to stop by for the unbeatable afternoon tea.
Eat
NYC moves at a mile a minute when it comes to the next best things in dining. Stay ahead of the curve and eat at Irvington, the latest in farm-to-table meals. Chef David Nichols sources the freshest local ingredients, and the result is obvious in his food. According to Just Luxe, a great source for luxury living by city guide, says that the Wild Boar and Roasted Garlic Sausage with marinated roasted peppers, and the Rotisserie Glazed Muscovy Duck with scallion crêpes, Bibb lettuce and baby radish are the two must-try items on the menu.
Drink
The Penthouse at Dream Downtown, also known as the PHD Lounge can’t be beat if you’re looking for drinks with a view. You can enjoy full skyline views from the rooftop lounge or from a garden terrace. The PHD Lounge hosts internationally acclaimed DJs and also offers dinners with an exclusive champagne section.
If you’re looking to rub elbows with the stars while you enjoy cocktails, look no further than Avenue. The spacious venue, which is located in the middle of the trendy meatpacking district, has hosted events for Marc Jacobs, Kim Kardashian, Derek Jeter and more. They offer a unique combination of an elegant interior and a popping night club, and have a private bar if you want to visit with a group.
Play
Nominated for three 2014 Tony Awards, the revival of Les Misérables is a classic can’t-miss on a iconic NYC vacation. Make sure you get your choice of seats ahead of time. Check out Telecharge for tickets.
If you’re looking for something off-Broadway that is still on the pulse in NYC, be sure not to miss Here Lies Love, an immersive theatre event that incorporates the audience into the show itself, all in a dance club atmosphere and featuring four decades of hit music. This is one to miss if you’re shy: the show listing says that “Comfortable shoes and clothing are recommended. Dancing is encouraged.”
Pets
If you are traveling with a pet, look no further than Kennedy airport’s new luxury pet terminal to make sure Fido travels in style. Aptly called the ARK at JFK, the world’s first pet terminal is planned to open in 2016, and will feature pools, massage therapy and pedicures for dogs. Owners can also check in on their pets via webcam.
