Introduction

In the hustle and bustle of a 9 to 5, it can be hard to find time for a vacation. That’s why staycations have become so popular these days. They give you an opportunity to relax and have some new experiences in your home town or city while reducing the time and effort that is needed to plan a full blown vacation from scratch. So if you live in NYC and are looking to plan a perfect vacation here, here’s a quick guide on how to make your NYC staycation worthwhile.

7 Unique Experiences You Need For A Perfect NYC Staycation

As the global center of technology, finance, culture, and international relations, New York City has some popular tourist attractions along with hidden gems for gaining unique experiences on a staycation. All you need is a tourist like curiosity, and you can have some amazing experiences. Here are 7 experiences you can add to your NYC staycation to make it memorable:

Stay At A Great Hotel

Staycation is all about indulging in some well needed relaxation activities, and that includes not working at the office or home. Whether you are taking a solo staycation or one with your partner, there are many amazing hotels in NYC that are worth the money. Here’s my top three favorite hotels:

• SpringHill Suites, not to be confused with the Hills Hotel, a beautiful wedding venue in California, is a cute little bed and breakfast situated in the heart of Manhattan, making it a popular choice for those who want to explore the city. Apart from a scrumptious meal, the hotel also features a valet parking, free wifi, and a workout center.
• If you want to spend your staycation at a classic New York style hotel, you must check out Hotel Edison. Not only is the ambience fabulous, but the space has been designed creatively to incorporate multiple restaurants, and jazz bars. Its proximity to Times Square also makes it a popular staycation place.
• For a luxurious and modern stay, your ideal stay should include Motto by Hilton. Along with all the usual amenities, the hotel also offers premium wifi and Orange Theory Training and meditation class, a perfect accompaniment for your staycation.

Immerse Yourself In A Local Dining Experience

If you appreciate good food, then the best way to spend your NYC staycation is by enjoying the local cuisine at some of the most amazing hidden gems of the city. NYC is known for its delicacies like pizza, cheesecake and bacon along with its amazing wineries. 

Make use of your staycation to find local diners with old style recipes, or enjoy a slice of New York style cheesecake with a glass of wine at some of the most incredible wineries that you can find in the USA.

Here are my top picks for some delicious staycation food in NYC, that’ll make your staycation as good as the real thing:

• When you’re planning a staycation in the city that never sleeps, you can’t miss out on the cultural nucleus of NYC, Chinatown. While the place stays open all year round, if your staycation coincides with the Chinese New Year, you’ll find yourself amidst the glory of amazing food, fun parades, and fireworks, a must-see attraction after dark.
• Staycation is the time to tick classic food places off your bucket list. If you want to indulge in a care-free, delicious, pastrami sandwich then you have to visit Pastrami Queen.
• You can’t tour NYC without hitting a classic pizzeria. Don Antonia is every pizza lover’s dream when it comes to having a neapolitan pizza. So, don’t miss out on this heavenly retreat in midtown manhattan.

Enjoy The Art At The Guggenheim Museum

The museum of modern art is a well known sight for tourists around the world, but you can go above and beyond to enjoy some eccentric and modern art pieces at the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum during your staycation. Nestled in the heart of Manhattan, this beautiful museum is one of the only three Guggenheim museums found in the world.

Classified as one of UNESCO heritage sites, this beautiful museum is a perfect addition to your staycation, whether you plan to visit alone or with a partner. The guided audio tour, combined with the delicious refreshments at Cafe Rebay will make you experience the beautiful art museum from the eyes of a tourist, making your staycation more special.

Fall In Love With Nature At Bryant Park

Staycation is the ideal time to indulge in some recreational activities and connect with nature. Bryant Park is a beloved destination of tourists, only second to central park in terms of popularity. Even those who move from far off places to settle into the city of NYC, often using long distance moving services, find solace in the beauty of Bryant Park after a long day of moving and unpacking.

From ice skating to boating, and from winter village garden to a variety of games, you’re bound to find something to your liking at this beautiful recreational area. The spot also boasts of many walking and cycling trails for those who prefer action, as well as artificial lakes for those who want to sit and take in the beauty in front of them.

Spend A Day In The New York Public Library

If your idea of a happy day includes a blanket and a good book, the New York Public Library might come close. The fourth largest library in the world, the NY public library is a haven for book lovers around the world.

With over 50 million books and 100 different categories, you could spend a quaint day here without being disturbed. When not reading, you can wander around the space and admire the beautiful marble architecture of the building. If you are an introvert or just a simple joe who loves books, you would be surprised at the kind of experience you will have at NYPL.

Rejuvenate With A Spa Day

Whether you have recently gotten married and came back from a destination wedding in the beautiful woods of SoCal, or you’re in need of some pampering, you deserve a rejuvenating spa day as you enjoy your staycation back in NYC.

While there are many luxurious spa and massage places in NYC, these are my favorite ones for when I’m in need of a self-care day:

• If you want to treat yourself to a day of wellness and let go of your worries, then AIRE ancient baths is the best wellness place for you in NYC. inspired by the bath traditions of Ottoman, Greek, and Romans, these baths will transport your body and mind to a weightless realm of tranquility.
• If you’re in need of a deep tissue tension release, then Thai Massage Village is the place for you. With a modern ambience and professional spa therapists, the place will transform you into a state of relaxation.
• If your idea of an enjoyable staycation involves high intensity workouts, Soulcycle might prove to be your soulmate. Spin classes on wheels, the unmatched energy of the place will rejuvenate you and fill you up with a renewed sense of self.

Spend Some Time With Animals At The Bronx Zoo

Everyone loves animals. They’re cute and their quirky behavior makes them lovable. If you want to start or end your staycation on a happy note, then you must spend some time at the Bronx Zoo for a unique experience. This is a great option for when you’re enjoying a staycation with family and looking to find things to do with kids in NYC.

With over 11,000 different animals, Bronx is home to the world’s most unique mammals, reptiles, and birds. While the uncanny presence of Giant Anteater and Andean Condor may surprise you, the cuteness of California Sea Lions, and Baby Doll Sheep will bring a smile to your face. The best part is that you won’t get bored even during a solo trip to this stunning representation of global wildlife.

It’s A Wrap

A staycation in NYC is a great way to get out of the boring routine without spending too much time or effort. With a little creativity and curiosity, you can plan the best staycation of the year. Whether your idea of a staycation is about exploring new places or enjoying a relaxing day with good food, this guide will help you find some hidden gems around the city to make your experience unique.