There is no backdrop quite like Manhattan for a weekend of celebration, style, and sisterhood. When planning the ultimate NYC escape, the secret is striking the right balance: pairing high-energy exploration with those quintessential, movie-worthy “New York moments.” A Girls’ Getaway to NYC

From sky-high suites with wrap-around views to secret beauty pop-ups and powerhouse Broadway hits, here is how to curate an unforgettable weekend in the city with your squad.

How to Enjoy a Girls’ Getaway to NYC

Stay With a View: The East River Suite

Elevate your stay—literally—by booking a room at the The Fifty Sonesta Select New York. In a city where space is the ultimate luxury, this suite stands out as a sprawling sanctuary designed for groups. Pro Tip- Book the East River suite for wrap-around views of Midtown East and the most luxe NYC experience ever.

The crown jewel? An expansive, private wrap-around balcony offering unobstructed, panoramic views of the Midtown skyline stretching out toward the East River.

The residential-style layout gives everyone room to stretch out and socialize. Having your own tranquil outdoor perch in the middle of Manhattan provides a serene contrast to the vibrant streets below, making it the definitive home base for your getaway.

Day 1: Retail Therapy, Pop-Ups & Broadway Energy

Afternoon: Hudson Yards & Sky-High Views

Kick off your afternoon at Hudson Yards, Manhattan’s modern shopping marvel. Featuring a curated mix of luxury fashion houses and trendy, accessible labels, it’s the ultimate setting for a group shopping spree.

After browsing the latest collections, take a colorful detour to iCandy NYC at the historic One Times Square. This whimsical sweets emporium delivers nostalgic candies and modern treats alongside vibrant, over-the-top decor—making it a mandatory stop for fun group photos.

Step onto the thrilling Times Square Skywalk (also located at One Times Square) for an exhilarating walk suspended above the heart of the city, get up-close-and-personal with the iconic New Year’s Eve Ball, and enjoy a bird’s-eye perspective of the city’s bright lights.

Pro Tip: Mastering the Art of the Pop-Up

One of the best-kept secrets to an insider NYC trip is staying flexible and staying in the loop:

• Follow City Guides: Check local Instagram channels daily for real-time announcements on flash events and seasonal activations.
• Catch Exclusive Pop-Ups: Manhattan is famous for high-end fashion and beauty takeovers—like the recent Dolce & Gabbana Beauty Pop & Glow activation, featuring luxury makeup touch-ups and interactive photo setups.
• Snag Unique Keepsakes: These temporary installations pop up across Midtown and SoHo weekly, giving your group a chance to score limited-edition samples and one-of-a-kind NYC souvenirs.

Stay in the Loop: Sign up for our monthly newsletter to get curated pop-up announcements and exclusive event updates delivered straight to your inbox!

Evening: Luxe Comfort, Broadway & Rooftop Nightcaps

As the sun dips below the skyline, head to Medium Rare for a dinner that keeps things fun, fast, and delicious. Specializing in an award-winning steak frites menu drizzled in their legendary secret sauce, the atmosphere here is loud, lively, and delightfully unpretentious. Don’t skip dessert—their decadent six-layer carrot cake is practically required sharing for a celebratory weekend.

Swap the dining room for the Theater District to catch SIX: The Musical at the historic Lena Horne Theatre. This global phenomenon transforms the history of Henry VIII’s six wives into a fierce, 80-minute pop concert. Celebrating self-expression and reclaiming one’s story, it’s the ultimate cultural highlight for a girls’ night out.

End the night high above the streets at Refinery Rooftop. Featuring an industrial-chic design, a year-round retractable glass ceiling, and stunning front-row views of the Empire State Building, it’s Manhattan’s premier late-night lounge. Raise a craft cocktail, soak in the DJ set, and toast to an unforgettable start to your trip.

Day 2: Skyline Icons, Pop Culture & Waterfront Dinners

Morning: Bagels, Ferries & The Top of the Rock

Start your morning fuel-up at Liberty Bagels, home to the city’s most famous hand-rolled bagels (and their showstopping, photo-worthy rainbow bagel with birthday cake cream cheese).

With coffee in hand, stroll down to catch the NYC Ferry toward Staten Island. The breeze, open upper deck, and sweeping, water-level views of the Statue of Liberty and Downtown Manhattan make this ride a classic harbor experience.

Once back on land, head straight to Top of the Rock at Rockefeller Center. While NYC has several observation decks, Top of the Rock offers the ultimate postcard perspective: an unobstructed, front-and-center view framing the majestic Empire State Building against the Midtown skyline.

Afternoon: Interactive Culture & Photo-Op Central

Keep the high-energy momentum going with an afternoon dedicated to pop culture:

• The Museum of Broadway: Dive into interactive, stage-set installations tracing the history of NY theater—complete with backstage costume displays and immersive photo rooms.
• Madame Tussauds New York: Snap glamorous, up-close selfies with life-sized wax figures of Hollywood stars, pop icons, and fashion legends across multi-floor interactive exhibits.

Late Afternoon & Evening: DUMBO & Waterfront Dining

Cross the river to spend your golden hour wandering Brooklyn Bridge Park. Take in the sweeping harbor air before heading to DUMBO—specifically Washington Street—to capture the famed shot of the Manhattan Bridge perfectly framed between brick stories.

Conclude Day 2 with dinner at Celestine. Nestled right along the East River waterfront, this Mediterranean-inspired gem offers delicious seasonal dishes alongside front-row, floor-to-ceiling vistas of the glowing NYC bridges and skyline reflecting across the water.

Day 3: Grand Central Architecture & Farewell Souvenirs

Before packing your bags and heading home, make the most of your final hours in the city:

• Breakfast at The Parliament: Enjoy artisanal pastries, fresh espresso, and breakfast bites in an elevated, stylish setting.
• Explore Grand Central Terminal: Marvel at the landmark’s astronomical teal ceiling and gold chandeliers in the main concourse.
• New York Transit Museum Gallery & Store: Wander through vintage transit exhibits inside the terminal and pick up authentic NYC subway poster prints, tokens, and gifts for home.