Category: THE CITY

For those of you who like to dodge the queues and would be happy to see the back of the bustling holiday season, New York City January offers a refreshing break.. With fewer tourists, it’s the perfect time to experience the city’s vibrant culture and unique winter beauty. Here’s why January is your ideal month to explore—and indulge in fitness, shopping, and more!

1. Fewer Tourists

After the holiday rush, New York takes on a quieter, more relaxed vibe. Major landmarks like the Empire State Building or Statue of Liberty are much easier to visit without the crowds. Museums, such as the MET and the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA), are also less crowded, giving you more room to enjoy their incredible exhibits without having to wait in line for long!

2. New York’s Unique Winter Beauty

January transforms the city into a serene winter wonderland. January is also the  most likely month to see snow and ice, with an average 6 days of snowfall during the month. Hedge your bets! Take a leisurely walk through a snow-dusted Central Park or admire the twinkling lights along Fifth Avenue. The crisp air and winter landscapes make for stunning photo opportunities. Don’t forget the ice skating rinks at Bryant Park and Rockefeller Center, quieter now than in December, but still a lot of fun.

3. Stay Active

If you are looking to start your new year with resolutions and a fitness boost, then New York might be just the palace to visit. 

• Outdoor Runs: Run through Central Park or along the Hudson River Greenway, there is no better way to explore these places.
• Indoor Fitness Studios: Try a class at popular spots like Barry’s Bootcamp.
• Rooftop Yoga – Join a sunrise or sunset class with breathtaking skyline views.
• Hotel Gyms: Fitzpatrick Hotels offer gym & pool facilities, making it easy to keep up with your fitness routine even while traveling.

Our top tip: Visit specialty fitness stores like Nike or Lululemon for your winter fitness gear!

4. January Sales

The January sales are a well-kept secret among savvy New Yorkers. Major department stores like Macy’s, Bloomingdale’s, and Saks Fifth Avenue offer excellent post-holiday discounts. It’s the perfect time to refresh your wardrobe or pick up fitness gear at a fraction of the cost.

Insider tip: Visit SoHo for unique boutiques or Woodbury Common Premium Outlets for designer deals.

5. Cozy Up and Indulge

After a day of exploring, relax and warm up with a hot drink. New York’s cozy cafes, like Bibble & Sip or Maman, are perfect for unwinding. For a more luxurious experience, enjoy a classic New York winter cocktail at The Fitz or The Wheelpapper in our Hotels.

Make the Most of January in NYC

With fewer crowds, stunning winter scenery, and plenty of fitness and shopping opportunities, January is an underrated gem for visitors. Stay at Fitzpatrick Hotels for a warm, welcoming base while you experience the quieter, cozier side of the city.

Ready to explore New York in January? Book your stay at Fitzpatrick Hotels and discover the magic of a quieter, more authentic New York City experience. Use code STAY4 for 20% off stays between Jan 1st and March 4th.

 

As you probably know, New York City transforms into a magical wonderland during winter. A stay in either of our hotel locations (Manhattan or Grand Central) places you right in the heart of these unforgettable experiences. Let’s take a look at what the city has to offer.

🎄 Christmas Events in NYC

The city sparkles brightest during the holiday season. First up we have the Rockefeller Center Christmas tree which must be the most famous NYC Christmas experience. Just a short walk from the hotels, you can marvel at this iconic tree aglow with thousands of lights. To keep in the spirit of Christmas, take a walk down Fifth avenue and admire the stunning displays at Saks, Macy’s and many of the other stores. Think Home alone 2! You can also take a trip to Radio City Music Hall to view the Christmas Spectacular starring the Radio City Rockettes. 

🎆 New Year’s Eve Extravaganza

Ring in the New Year like never before, join the world-famous celebration in Times Square (just blocks away) or watch it from a nearby rooftop bar with a cocktail in hand. Toast to 2025 with stunning views of the Manhattan skyline on a New Year’s Eve cruise on the Hudson.

Tip: After the festivities, retreat to the comfort of Fitzpatrick’s for a restful New Year’s morning and brunch!

🍽️ Winter Holiday Dining Near Fitzpatrick’s

NYC’s winter culinary scene is thriving! Here are some cozy spots in The Rockefeller centre where you can make the most of the Christmas lights:

• Five Acres: A farm-to-table restaurant in Rockefeller Center, highlighting seasonal American dishes with a focus on fresh, local ingredients.
• Le Rock: A modern French brasserie in Rockefeller Center offering refined classics with bold flavors and an elegant atmosphere.
• Lodi: A stylish Italian café and bakery at Rockefeller Plaza, known for its artisanal pastries, fresh bread, and authentic Northern Italian cuisine.
• NARO: A contemporary Korean fine-dining spot in Rockefeller Center, showcasing inventive takes on traditional Korean flavors and techniques.

 

❄️ January & Beyond: Extend Your Stay

The holiday crowds may dwindle, but NYC’s winter charm doesn’t! Stay longer and take advantage of exclusive post-holiday offers. Stay longer, save even bigger at Fitzpatrick’s hotels. Stay 4 nights and save 20% off our Best Available Rate for stays between January 01 and March 02, 2025. Book Manhattan or Grand Central. Make the most of Broadway Week In late January, you can get 2-for-1 tickets to Broadway’s biggest hits. Finally escape the chill and explore the Met, MoMA, or the Whitney without the holiday rush.

Fitzpatrick’s Hotels offer the perfect home base for your NYC winter escape, blending comfort, charm, and convenient access to the city’s top attractions. Make this getaway one to remember! ❄️🏙️

For more details Please contact on sales@fitzpatrickhotels.com.

 

The holidays are one of the most magical times in New York City. From Thanksgiving parades to iconic lights and holiday markets, there is no better time to experience the city. Here is your ultimate guide to making the most of Thanksgiving and the holiday season in NYC during your stay with us at Fitzpatrick Hotels.

Thanksgiving 

The iconic Macy’s hosts a Thanksgiving Day Parade every year and this beloved tradition draws crowds from all over the world. Held on Thanksgiving morning, the parade starts in Central Park and travels to Macy’s Herald Square with festive floats, balloons and broadway stars! 

There are many restaurants in NYC that offer Thanksgiving menus. The Smith, Carmines and Balthazar to name but a few provide the traditional turkey and seasonal favourites, a perfect way to engage in the festivities on your visit!

The Holidays

The Rockefeller Center Tree Lighting is one of the most iconic events of the holiday and marks the start of the festive season in NYC. The annual Rockefeller Center Tree Lighting Ceremony will take place on Wednesday, December 4th, 2024 during the live broadcast “Christmas at Rockefeller Center”. The event is free but it will attract large crowds so be sure to arrive early if you want to get a good spot!

NYC has an array of famous holiday markets. Winter Village at Bryant park is not to be missed and has an array of artisan stalls with a cosy festive atmosphere! Union Square Holiday Market known for it;s handcrafted gifts is a great spot for one of a kind presents. Finally, Columbus Circle Holiday Market, located on the edge of Central Park offers beautiful city views and an array of holiday goods and gift options!

Of course, what is a trip to NYC during the holiday season without going ice skating! Some of NYCs most iconic ice skating rinks include the Rockefeller Center, Wollman Rink in Central Park and in Bryant Park, the winter rink at the holiday village is free and you have to rent the skates. 

NYC’s holiday lights and window displays are a must see. Check out Saks Fifth Avenue known for it’s dazzling window displays and light shows! Dyker Heights in Brooklyn is famous for extravagant home decorations. Hudson Yards is 1.7 miles from our Grand Central location and is decked out with millions of twinkling lights which offers a beautiful holiday ambiance. 

One of the best ways to get into the holiday spirit is to see a classic holiday show on Broadway. Classics like Radio CIty Christmas Spectacular, The Nutcracker Ballet by the New York CIty Ballet and other holiday themed broadway shows will be shown in the famous theatre district this holiday season, check out the listings in advance to guarantee your booking!

If you are staying with us this holiday season here are some tips. Public transport is the easiest way to navigate NYC during the busy holiday season. Check in with us at reception if you are having difficulty in planning your days. NYC can also get quite chilly in November and December so pack layers and make sure you have comfortable walking shoes for exploring the city!

We are sure that the holiday season in NYC has something on offer for everyone so make sure to get planning and create unforgettable memories with family and friends!

 

No other city comes alive during fall than NYC. Manhattan is full of festivities, cultural events and scenic orange and gold beauty! If you are looking for an autumnal stroll in Central Park or a cosy Broadway show, Manhattan has it all. Here’s a roundup of the top things to do.

1. Stroll Through the foliage in a famous NYC Park

There’s no better way to experience fall in Manhattan than a walk through some of it’s famous parks. As the foliage changes to wonderful shades of gold and orange it offers a chance to escape the hustle and bustle of the city!

• Central Park – One of the best spots to see the leaves change without leaving Manhattan. Take a stroll along the Mall, visit the Ramble, or head to the Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir for a picture-perfect fall scene.
• The High Line – This elevated park offers unique views of fall foliage amidst the city’s architecture. With its curated plantings and urban surroundings, it’s perfect for those looking to enjoy nature without leaving the city
• Foliage Cruise – You could even go that extra mile and experience a fall foliage cruise along the Hudson River. Classic Harbor Line offers cruises departing from Chelsea Piers which sail along the Hudson River, you can enjoy a mulled wine to really get into the spirit.

 

2. Halloween in NYC

As you are probably aware, Halloween in NYC is a city-wide celebration, with events and activities for all ages.

• The legendary Greenwich Village Halloween Parade is one of NYC’s most famous fall events. Thousands of participants take to the streets for a festive march through the heart of the Village. This iconic event will take place on October 31st— you can either dress up and join in or watch the unfoldings on Sixth Avenue!
• Head to Hudson Yards for a pumpkin-filled spectacle. The Pumpkin Arch is well worth the photoshoot spectacle. Be sure to check out seasonal markets nearby! 
• Stroll around Manhattan on any of the days surrounding Halloween and you are sure to find a spectacle of costumes and kids out trick or treating who you can watch and enjoy the fun they are having.

 

3. Broadway Shows

Fall is a fantastic time to catch a Broadway show, especially as the weather cools down and the evenings turn dark. Cosy up to an unforgettable performance in one of the top Theatre districts in the world! 

• Broadway favourites like Hamilton, The Lion King, and Hadestown will likely be showing. Make sure to check out any new fall debuts and book your tickets in advance to avoid disappointment!

 

4. Museum Exhibits for Chilly Days

Of course we can’t predict the weather so if it is getting chilly or even rainy, the museums below never disappoint!

• American Museum of Natural History – This one is great for families and offers an exciting and educational experience, discovering dinosaurs, elephants, a turtle odyssey and immersive experiences!
• The Metropolitan Museum of Art (Met): The Met, being the most famous museum in NYC, is always a safe option where you can discover ancient civilisations and modern masterpieces!
• The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA): Another must-visit is MoMA. See Van Gogh’s Starry Night along with favourites by Monet, Warhol, Rothko, and more. The overall collection will be sure to keep you engaged for hours. Special fall exhibitions often draw big crowds, so check ahead for tickets.

 

5. New York City Marathon

The famous New York City Marathon takes place in early November and it is quite the event to spectate, especially if you have never witnessed one before. The energy and emotions will be high on the day.

• When: Sunday, November 3rd, 2024
• Where to Watch: Some of the best spots to cheer on the runners are along First Avenue between 59th and 96th Streets or near the finish line in Central Park. Join the enthusiastic crowd as the marathon runners push through the final leg of their journey and cheer them on across the finish line!

 

6. Bryant Park Fall Market and Ice Skating

Each fall, the ever seasonal Bryant Park brings a wonderful market with various vendors offering artisanal goods, seasonal foods, and holiday gifts. This will be running from late October and is the perfect place to shop for gifts for yourself or friends! In addition to this, the park’s iconic ice-skating rink opens in late October, so you can lace up your skates and enjoy a few spins! Admission to the rink is free although skate rentals are available for a fee!

There’s no shortage of ways to enjoy fall in Manhattan. If you are feeling particularly halloweeny you could take a trip to Masker Orchards (Warwick, NY) or Harvest Moon Farm & Orchard (North Salem, NY) for some Apple Picking along with many more seasonable activities. This Fall there really is something for everyone in Manhattan, the heart of NYC. Embrace the season and make the most of the crisp air and vibrant foliage!

Planning a trip to New York City and need help organising your stay? We’ve got you covered! Explore our 6-day itinerary for the perfect NYC experience.

Day 1

Arrive at your chosen Fitzpatricks hotel, check in and freshen up. Start your New York adventure by visiting the iconic Times Square where you can explore the billboards, street performers including the Naked Cowboy, shops and famous red stairs! If you have the energy, you can catch a show on Broadway. Be sure to purchase your tickets in advance to guarantee a viewing and good seats! If you’re feeling tired after a day of travel, unwind with a meal at our very own Wheeltapper (Grand Central) or The Fitz (Manhattan).

Day 2

Start your day by taking a leisurely stroll or bike ride through Central Park. Grab a coffee or a hot dog along the way and get into the true New York spirit. Make sure you visit the Bethesda Terrace, Bow Bridge and Strawberry fields as you explore! After grabbing a bite to eat, spend a few hours exploring one of the world’s finest art museums, The Metropolitan Museum of Art (The Met). Here you can check out some of their key exhibits like the Costume Institute, European Paintings and The Egyptian art. If time allows, you could also check out Museum Mile. In the evening, try a meal in a classic New York steakhouse like Capital Grill or Smith & Wollensky.

Day 3

Time for some shopping! Explore the array of luxury shops along 5th Avenue and check out some of the landmark destinations such as Tiffany & Co, The Apple Store and LuLuLemon. You can check out our full shopping blog here. In the afternoon, head for the Rockefeller centre, where you can spend some time touring this iconic cultural landmark, home to NBC Studios. Make sure you visit Top of the Rock and indulge in panoramic views of New York City! Enjoy dinner in a local restaurant on the Upper East side like Quality Italian or Piccola Cucina Uptown.

Day 4

Get the day started with a guided walking tour of the iconic Grand Central where you can learn about its history, architecture and secrets! You can even reminisce on Serena Van Der Woodsen’s Gossip Girl debut! In the afternoon, take the short walk to Bryant Park that is bustling with activities and entertainment. Take a look at their calendar to see what’s on when you visit. The stunning New York Public Library is just off Bryant Park where you can take in the Rose Main Reading Room and observe the historic architecture. In the evening, head to the Empire State Building’s observation deck for stunning views of the city. Be sure to book your tickets in advance.

Day 5

Take an early ferry to visit the Statue of Liberty. You can learn about the immigrant experience at the Ellis Island National Museum of Immigration. When you return to the mainland, head for Wall Street. Check out the Financial District, Stock Exchange and famous Charging Bull. You can also then visit the 9/11 Memorial Museum and pay your respects. In the evening dine in Lower Manhattan, perhaps at Fraunces Tavern (George Washington bid his officers of the continental army farewell in 1783) or Delmonico’s (Oldest restaurant in nyc established in 1837).

Day 6

On your final day in New York City, visit the Chelsea Market for some last minute shopping and a bite to eat. Walk the High Line and take in the views of the city and the Hudson River. If you have time in the afternoon, head to Soho to check out it’s fun atmosphere and trendy shops.

Transport: Use the subway and buses to get around efficiently!.

CityPass: A CityPass will save on admission fees to major attractions.

Reservations: Make reservations in advance for popular restaurants and attractions.

We hope that this guide proves useful to you on your upcoming trip to New York. If you have any questions on the above, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us.