2 Days in New York City
New York City is one of those destinations I never get tired of visiting. Every trip feels different, whether it's discovering a new restaurant, catching a concert, shopping along Fifth Avenue, or simply walking the city streets. It's an easy destination for a weekend getaway from Boston, yet every visit reminds me why it's one of my favorite cities in the world.
Things to do in New York City
SUMMIT One Vanderbilt
If you're choosing one observation deck in New York, this is my pick. The combination of incredible skyline views, immersive art installations, and mirrored rooms makes it much more than just another lookout. I visited at night and loved seeing the city lights, but I think sunset offers the best experience as you watch Manhattan transition from day to night.
Madison Square Garden
Whether you're seeing a concert, sporting event, or comedy show, Madison Square Garden is one of the world's iconic venues. I was impressed by how clean and organized it was, and there were far more food and beverage options than I expected.
Fifth Avenue shopping
From luxury boutiques to department stores like Bloomingdale's and Saks Fifth Avenue, this area is perfect for an afternoon of shopping. Even if you're not planning to buy much, it's fun to browse and enjoy the energy of Midtown.
Grand Central Terminal
More than just a transportation hub, Grand Central is one of New York's architectural gems. Stop inside to admire the famous ceiling, browse the shops, or grab a quick bite before continuing your day.
Walk Midtown
One of my favorite ways to experience New York is simply by walking. Staying in Midtown puts many of the city's highlights within easy reach, making it easy to explore at your own pace without constantly relying on taxis or the subway.
Travel by Acela
If you're traveling from Boston or the Northeast, I highly recommend taking Amtrak's Acela. It delivers you directly into Penn Station, avoids airport hassles, and makes a long weekend in New York feel incredibly easy.
Places to eat & drink in New York City
Le Pavillon
One of my favorite restaurants in New York City. The elegant dining room, exceptional service, and beautifully prepared French cuisine make it an outstanding choice for a celebration or special evening.
Monkey Bar
A classic New York institution with timeless charm. It's a great choice for cocktails, a lively atmosphere, and an upscale American dinner.
Avra Madison
Fresh Mediterranean seafood, beautiful presentation, and a vibrant atmosphere make this a favorite for both business dinners and celebrations.
Ess-a-Bagel
An iconic New York breakfast stop. The bagels are exactly what visitors hope for—fresh, chewy, and generously filled.
Club InterContinental at the Barclay
If you're staying at the InterContinental New York Barclay, Club access is absolutely worth considering. Breakfast each morning, afternoon refreshments, and evening wine and hors d'oeuvres add tremendous value while providing a relaxing break from the busy city.
Need to know
I recommend staying in Midtown for first-time visitors because it's convenient to many of New York's top attractions while offering easy access to the subway.
If you're visiting SUMMIT One Vanderbilt, reserve tickets in advance—especially for sunset time slots, which sell out quickly.
Comfortable walking shoes are a must. Even if you plan to use the subway, you'll likely walk several miles each day.
If you're traveling from Boston, Acela is often more convenient than flying and drops you right in the heart of Manhattan.
New York rewards flexibility. Leave room in your itinerary to wander into a neighborhood café, browse a bookstore, or simply enjoy the energy of the city.