Fun Weekend in New York City: Exploring Midtown
I’m a big fan of short weekend trips. Short trips are a great way to discover new things while breaking free from day-to-day routines. With five boroughs and more neighborhoods than you can imagine, planning a weekend trip to New York City can be overwhelming. Although it’s great having so many options, when time is of the essence, this becomes a big problem. For weekend travel, less is sometimes more! So with a particular focus on Midtown Manhattan, make the most of your stay in New York City by discovering the outdoor spaces and delicious restaurants near the beautiful Lexington New York City Hotel. You’ll be pleasantly surprised by just how much you’re able to fit in 36 hours. Take it from me, a local who has been there!
Friday Evening
Start your weekend in New York City by checking-in the ultra-stylish Lexington New York City, Autograph Collection. Inspired by an exclusive art collection commissioned by Paige Powell, this sophisticated art deco Marriott Hotel is incredibly personable.
Only a few blocks away from Grand Central Terminal and Times Square, The Lexington New York City combines high-end architectural designs with historic 1920 accents.
At this modern Midtown hotel, experience a new take on New York City’s contemporary jazz scene. As you walk around the hotel, notice the unique pieces of art. This includes stylish murals, photographs and three-dimensional installations from renowned artists.
Like what you see? Some art pieces are even on sale!
Where To Drink
You don’t have to leave your hotel to enjoy Midtown’s bar scene. Head over to The Lexington’s on-site cocktail bar, The Mixing Room. Order a signature Mr. Lex Martini or The Sidewinder.
At The Mixing Room, mingle with locals, business professionals, and other travelers before calling it a night.
Related: Bangerz & Mash: 8 New Plays Made For NYC Millennials
Saturday
Where To Eat Breakfast
Before starting your first full day in New York City, grab breakfast at Raffles Bistro.
Raffles Bistro is The Lexington’s on-site, full-service restaurant. It offers an extensive breakfast menu and a casual dining ambiance.
If you rather grab a cup of coffee, head over to Starbucks.
Where To Sightseeing
Avoid the midday crowds at The High Line by visiting early in the morning.
The High Line is New York City’s first (and only) elevated public park. Built on former freight rail lines, this gem stopped operating in 1980. In 2009, the rail line ingeniously became a 1.45-mile urban park after threats of demolition for over 25 years.
Although The High Line has many access points, I would recommend starting at the beginning – 34th Street and 12th Avenue. Coincidentally, this is the only point where the High Line reaches street level. The park ends at the Whitney Museum of Art overlooking the Meatpacking District.
Visiting The High Line is a perfect way to see Manhattan’s West Side. During a casual stroll, enjoy magnificent views of the Hudson River to the west. As well as New York City’s skyline to the east.
Reference the art maps as you discover a variety of artwork including exhibitions, sculptures, wall murals and live performances. During a recent stroll, I enjoyed musical performances by a drummer.
Marvel at the park’s natural landscape, which includes a variety of greenery including colorful wildflowers, perennials, shrubs, and trees.
If you want to learn more about New York City’s park in the sky, join a free guided walking tour. With an insider’s perspective, you will learn about the park’s history and unique design. Garden tours, art tours, and private tours are also available.
Where To Eat & Drink In the Afternoon
Just in time for brunch, make your way to Bubby’s. Conveniently right across the street from The High Line, Bubby’s serves traditional American-style comfort food. Fan favorites include eggs, pancakes, and fried chicken. They even have authentic Canadian maple syrup that pairs well with their delicious James Beard and Sourdough pancakes.
Wash it all down with a refreshing mimosa or classic Bloody Mary.
Where To Sightseeing
For more sightseeing, visit the Flatiron Building before having dinner.
The NYC Flatiron Building is one of the most iconic skyscrapers in the city. This thin triangular 22-story building resembles a cast-iron clothes iron.
Fun fact: The Flatiron Building was originally “The Fuller Building” named after the architect George A. Fuller.
Related: Iconic Landmarks To See On A NYC Helicopter Tour
Where To Eat & Drink
Near Madison Square Park, grab dinner at Eataly NYC Flatiron, one of the largest Italian food halls in the world.
Eataly features succulent Italian food and drink at a number of restaurants, food stalls, and bakeries.
If you’re visiting during the spring or summer months, check out La Birreria. La Birreria is a rooftop restaurant and microbrewery. This is the perfect place to experience New York City’s craft beer scene. With perfect views of the Empire State Building, toast to an enjoyable day in the city.
Day 2: Sunday
Just a few minutes from The Lexington New York City, walk to Bryant Park. There enjoy the emerald-green lawn or free activities, classes and events.
From juggling lessons to film festivals, there is always something happening in New York City’s “favorite backyard”. If you are an avid gamer, play tabletop games including ping-pong, chess, Connect 4 and more.
Alternatively, if the weather is nice, you can go kayaking. It’s the perfect combination of concrete jungle meet outdoor adventure. From the kayak admire New York City’s gorgeous skyline!
Before saying your goodbyes, join a DIY workshop at CraftJam.
From classy leather clutches to chic macrame plant hangers, make something cool that will remind you of your epic weekend in New York City. Don’t forget to BYOB and enjoy your favorite adult beverage!
This is a collaborative post with The Lexington New York City Hotel, all opinions are my own.
Danielle Desir Corbett paid off $63,000 of student loan debt in 4 years, bought a house at 27, and has traveled to 27 countries, including her favorites, Iceland, China, and Bermuda. Go here to learn Danielle’s incredible story, from struggling financially and in debt to finding creative ways to earn more and live on her terms. Listen to The Thought Card Podcast, where Danielle shares how you can creatively travel more and build wealth regardless of your current financial situation. Reach out to Danielle by contacting: thethoughtcard (at) gmail (dot) com.
The Lexington looks fabulous! (and I love Bubby’s and Eataly!) Pinning for my next NYC trip!
Love hearing new blogger approved places to visit and I’m always looking for good NYC reviews. I like hotel hopping in the city and over the years have stayed at probably 50 different properties but the Lexington is one I have not yet been to. Filing away for my new trip. ;)
50! Wow that’s incredible – do you have a favorite that you’d recommend?
I still haven’t made it to the High Line park! Thanks for the reminder here — we’ll be in the city at the end of August. The Lexington NYC looks like a great hotel find — love that location!
I recently visited the High Line for the first time so I could totally relate. On a nice day it’s perfect for both exercise and sightseeing!
New York City never disappoints. I went to school in this area and I always discover something new, every time i happen to walk around there.
That’s the beauty of NYC – there’s really something to do at every corner.
Looks like a wonderful hotel to explore NYC from! These are some great suggestions, I’d totally love to join a craft workshop, that sounds like a lot of fun too :)
With CraftJam so far I’ve done the plant hanger macrame class and their essential oil class – so much fun!