There are so many things to do and see in New York City, making it the perfect place for a fun staycation.
Midtown Manhattan Itinerary
Even if you only have 24 hours, you can’t be bored with so many amazing sights and dining options. Here are some of our favorite spots for a 24-hour jaunt to Midtown.
Check-In
Conrad New York Midtown provides the perfect location mere blocks away from Broadway theaters, Times Square, Central Park and numerous NYC attractions. Many of the rooms are apartment-style (many with full kitchens) and perfect for more extended stays, giving guests the comfort and feel of luxury living in the heart of the city (Conrad New York Midtown is also pet-friendly). The hotel’s onsite restaurant Dabble is open all day, serving breakfast early in the morning along with bites and cocktails later in the day.
Lunch Time
The CrazyShake® milkshakes at Black Tap Craft Burgers & Beer break the internet on a regular basis. The picture-perfect shakes loaded with toppings are artistic and tasty wonders. If you’ve ever looked at milkshakes on Instagram, odds are the Black Tap shakes were one of the top hits. The original SoHo location (as well as other locations around the world) frequently collaborates with companies like Hershey’s and Netflix to create limited-edition shakes that will blow your mind (and your taste buds). Some shakes come with an entire slice of cake on top while others have a whole cookie “glued” to the side of the glass. The fantastical cotton candy shake looks like something out of a fairytale.
Enjoy the City Views
One of the best views in New York City (and easily the world) can be found at Top of the Rock. You’ll spot the red carpet entry to the observation deck right away, and you won’t want to miss a single moment of the journey. Stop by the Mezzanine Exhibit to learn all about the history of Rockefeller Center and, of course, Top of the Rock. Stop and get your photo taken at the Beam Walk next, on your way to the Theatre. The Sky Shuttle is next and whisks you up 850 feet in under 60 seconds. Make sure to enjoy all three observation levels—the first stop is the 67th floor, with a viewing area and the Swarovski Radiance Wall. Your next stop will be the 69th floor which is home to viewing areas and the Breezeway. Top of the Rock saves the best for last with the 70th-floor rooftop viewing, which offers 360° views with no obstructions (this is the spot to get your picture-perfect NYC selfies).
Dinner Time
This brand new restaurant concept by Chef Isao Yamada pairs an innovative menu with unexpected flavors. Kaiseki Room by Yamada provides an authentic culinary experience perfect for special occasions and celebrations (the chef’s tasting menu is priced at $300 per person). The restaurant serves only 20 diners who will enjoy menu items like the “Hokkaido Sea Urchin with Kinmedai, Apple Foam and Ponzu Crystal” and the “Simmerd Japanese Rosy Seabass with Foie Gras.”
Show Time
Originally conceived as an “American People’s Palace,” Radio City Music Hall has long been a beloved New York City landmark and venue. Hosting performances of all kinds (concerts, stage shows, special events, etc.), it is the perfect location for a night on the town. Now that shows and events are back in full force take advantage of your convenient location and take in a show (the world-famous “Christmas Spectacular Starring the Radio City Rockettes” is a holiday favorite among tourists and locals).
Art-Filled Morning
After a night out on the town and a wonderful night’s sleep in your comfortable hotel, make sure to take in a great breakfast at Dabble located inside the Conrad New York Midtown. Breakfast is served from 6:30 a.m. until 11 a.m. so don’t worry if you got a bit of a late start. If you’re not quite ready to get out of bed, try the in-room dining (breakfast also runs from 6:30 a.m.-11 a.m.).
Plan for both indoor and outdoor art time at the Museum of Modern Art with their smart timed entry system. The spacious galleries don’t feel crowded and there’s plenty to keep you busy and away from others as you explore. Permanent collections mix with feature exhibits like the re-opening Handles by Haegue Yang, a full-scale riot of color and shape. Escalators connect the floors, so it’s easy to stay socially distanced as you travel around. For efficient navigation, start on the top floor and work your way down. Before you leave, head to the outdoor sculpture garden where scattered seating will allow you to chill and safely appreciate the return of museums in Manhattan.
Farewell Lunch
It might almost be time to return to your regularly scheduled programming, but that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy one last great meal. World-renowned chef Alain Ducasse brings the charming bistros of Paris to New York at Benoit. Featuring a modern take on classic French restaurants, Benoit serves contemporary and traditional French cuisine for lunch, dinner and brunch. Try French staples like the Tarte flambée and the duck foie gras terrine before moving onto classic entrees such as the traditional cassoulet or the quenelles de brochet. Make sure to save room for dessert and a cheese course—perfect for pairing with a pour from Benoit’s in-house wine bar.
