Getaway Guide: Weekend Trip to NYC
New York City offers everything you might want in a vacation, yet is only a four-hour drive from Boston. Famous for everything from sight-seeing to cuisine, it also boasts ample historical landmarks, fabulous hotels and an exciting nightlife. Explore the streets or take in a show, but don't miss out on a weekend opportunity to find out what New York City is all about. Here are just some of the highlights.
Getting There
Take I-90 west out of Boston to I-84 west through Hartford and Danbury. Connect to I-684 south in New York before merging onto the Hutchinson River Parkway south. Continue onto Cross County Parkway as you keep an eye out for the George Washington Bridge. Merge onto the Saw Mill Parkway, past Lincoln Park, and then onto the Henry Hudson Parkway. Continue on New York 9A south into the city.
Central Park
830 5th Ave.
New York, NY 10024
(212) 310-6600
www.centralparknyc.org
Central Park boasts more than 250 acres of lawns. The trees, lakes and streams, flowers, woodlands, monuments and bridges are a visual wonderland, while the benches, ballfields and playgrounds leave no shortage of outdoor activities. Enjoy a guided walking tour to learn the history of the park, or take a ride on the carousel, one of the park's main attractions. If you get hungry, grab a snack at one of the many concession stands, or enjoy a full meal at Loeb Boathouse or Le Pain Quotidien.
Top of the Rock
30 Rockefeller Center
70th floor
New York, NY 10112
(212) 698-2000
www.topoftherocknyc.com
Click here for pricing
The Top of the Rock elevator takes you to the top of the Rockefeller Center. Three floors of indoor and outdoor decks allow you to take in every view. Bring your camera to get pictures of the New York skyline, see Central Park from up high and be sure to spot the Empire State Building lit up if you're there at night. Grab a camera or a bite to eat on-site, with three outdoor levels for observation you're likely to stay for a while. Don't forget sunscreen and weather-appropriate clothing unless you're viewing exclusively from the indoor space up top.
Il Mulino
86 W 3rd St
New York, NY 10012
(212) 673-3783
www.ilmulino.com
This Italian eatery serves authentic cuisine from the Abuzzo region of Italy. Expect fresh, simple ingredients in its meat, fish and vegetable dishes. Pace yourself and enjoy bread, appetizers, an entree and dessert the old-fashioned Italian way. With the wonderful service and excellent food, Il Mulino stays busy, so make reservations in advance. Private dining is also available for an intimate and romantic experience.
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Zebu Grill
305 E 92 St
New York, NY 10028
(212) 426-7500
www.zebugrill.com
This family owned hidden gem serves up the best in Brazilian cuisine. Stop in early for brunch or later for dinner and drinks. The dinner menu is a meat lovers dream, but also offers vegetable dishes. Brazilian flan or passion fruit brulee make for the perfect ending to the meal. The staff is attentive, the atmosphere is classy, and the open view to the kitchen provides a unique experience.
New York Palace Hotel
455 Madison Ave.
New York, NY 10022
(212) 888-7000
www.newyorkpalace.com
This Midtown hotel will provide you with a luxurious stay while in New York. Room and suite amenities include Internet access, 24-hour room service and housekeeping, complimentary shoe shine, an in-room safe, nightly turndown service and complimentary weekday delivery of the "New York Times." Dine on the property at Gift Restaurant and Bar, have a drink outdoor at the Palace Gate, or enjoy dessert at Istana. Spend some time at the luxury spa or fitness center to round out your stay.
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Kim Vareika is the owner of Vareika Personal Training and Yoga in Plainville. She has been in the fitness industry for over ten years, and believes that wellness is about more than just physical health. When she is not teaching, practicing, or writing, she resides in Bridgewater where she enjoys spending time with family, friends, and her nephew Caesar. Her work can be found at Examiner.com.
