The 15 Best Staycations NYC Has to Offer
Intro to NYC Staycations
No matter if you call NYC your home or you’re just visiting, there’s always more to explore in this bustling metropolis. With its world-class museums, Michelin-starred restaurants, and iconic landmarks, it can seem like there is an endless supply of things to do in the Big Apple. Even without leaving the city limits, you can have a vacation experience that rivals any other city on earth. At times, jetting off to a far-flung location isn’t feasible, advisable, or desirable. When those moments arise, don’t fret! You can still satiate your wanderlust by embarking on a staycation right in New York City. There are countless staycation opportunities that can help erase routine ennui and make you feel like a tourist in your own town. Staycations offer all the benefits of a traditional getaway, but without the hassle of travel. They’re cost-effective, comforting, and they give you a chance to fall in love with your city all over again. From Luxurious hotels to tranquil parks, every day can be filled with new experiences. Think about spending a weekend acting like a tourist at Times Square. Delight yourself with its busy streets, towering buildings, colorful digital billboards, and diverse food options from around the world. The following list sums up what one can do:
- Browse in the numerous souvenir shops.
- Take a picture with your favorite celebrity wax figure at Madame Tussauds.
- Gaze upon NYC from above at the Empire State Building or Top of The Rock.
- Catch a Broadway show, adding an artsy touch to your trip.
- Savor authentic Italian cuisine at Tony’s Di Napoli.
- Join the late-night crowd enjoying live music at a local club.
The Charm of Central Park Staycation
One of the great things about New York City is its vast, verdant, and vibrant parks. Central Park is one such oasis located in the heart of Manhattan. Covering over 843 acres, it’s a world onto itself, making a staycation there completely unique and refreshing. A Central Park staycation lets you step away from the concrete jungle and immerse yourself in nature. You can wander through scenic paths, admire fountains and sculptures, visit the zoo, indulge in bird watching, and even go boating on the lake. It’s like vacationing in a charming countryside while still being inside the city. Consider spending a day or two exploring this beautiful oasis. Use the time to clear your mind, relax, connect with nature, have fun, and most importantly, create memorable experiences. In Central Park, you could:
- Ride the iconic Central Park Carousel.
- Visit Belvedere Castle for some stunning views of the park and city skyline.
- Rent a rowboat at The Loeb Boathouse.
- Jog, bike, or roller skate around the park’s extensive trails.
- Dine alfresco at Tavern on The Green or The Boathouse Restaurant.
- Catch a free performance at the Delacorte Theater during summer.
| Staycation Location | Top Activities Offered |
|---|---|
| Times Square | Browse souvenir shops, Visit Madame Tussauds, Savor authentic Italian cuisine at Tony’s Di Napoli, Catch a Broadway show, Gaze upon NYC from Empire State Building or Top of the Rock, Join live music crowd at a local club |
| Central Park | Ride Central Park Carousel, Visit Belvedere Castle, Rent a rowboat at The Loeb Boathouse, Jog or bike around the park, Dine at Tavern on The Green/The Boathouse Restaurant, Enjoy a free performance at Delacorte Theater during summer |
| The staycation possibilities in NYC are nearly endless! | |