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New York is known for shopping, but it’s even more special at Christmas time! We’ve picked some of our favorite Christmas shopping spots in the city.

Macy’s

Macy’s Herald Square is one of the largest department stores in the world, it covers almost an entire New York City block. With an amazing selection of brands to choose from, including Calvin Klein, Tommy Hilfiger and Levi’s, there is something for everyone and you’ll spend hours wandering the 9 floors! A shopper’s haven! It’s also great for Christmas decorations so make sure you pop in to take a look!

Bloomingdales

Located on Lexington Avenue, you may recognise the name from Rachel’s time in Friends, but Bloomingdales has been a New York Institution for over a century. You’ll find all your favorite designer brands here, including Gucci, Burberry, Michael Kors and many, many more!

Century 21

Century 21’s Flagship store can be found in lower Manhattan. Century 21 is a large discount department store, they offer up to 60% off some of the top designer brands. If you love a good bargain then this is the store for you this Christmas!

5th Avenue

Stroll down 5th avenue and you’ll find all of your favorite brands as well as passing some of NY’s most iconic landmarks including The Plaza, The Rockefeller Centre & St.Patrick’s Cathedral. You’ll find world-famous stores such as Bergdorf Goodman, Tiffany & Co and Saks Fifth Avenue on your walk down one of the world’s most famous streets! Remember to check out Saks Fifth Avenue’s Holiday Light Show during the Christmas season, it runs until 24th December! Directly opposite Saks, you’ll find the renowned Rockefeller Christmas tree, make sure you stop for a photo or two!

SoHo

From shoes to homeware, clothes to accessories, you’ll find everything you need in SoHo. There’s something to suit all budgets! You’ll find lots of vintage stores in SoHo and if you’re ready to search you can get some amazing bargains! You’ll find brands such as Opening Ceremony, Second Time Around and What Goes Around Comes Around.

Christmas Markets

You don’t have to travel to Europe to enjoy the Christmas markets, we have plenty to choose from in New York City! Why not head to the Winter Village at Bryant Park? With over 150 stalls and an ice-skating rink, it’s sure to get you in the festive spirit!

Only a short walk from our Grand Central hotel, visit the Grand Central Holiday Fair. Half of Vanderbilt Hall is taken over by 40 vendors—including local NYC artists —who specialise in hand-crafted products.

Union Square Holiday Market is another great market for experiencing Christmas cheer, over 200 local and national vendors come together at this outdoor market, selling things like leather goods, artisanal olive oil and skincare products so you’re sure to pick up some great Christmas presents.

If you’re planning a 2020 shopping trip to New York, make sure you check out our Eat, Sleep, Shop & Repeat package.

Spending New Year’s Eve in New York is one of the best ways to ring in a new year and a new decade in 2020! Everyone knows that the Times Square New Year’s celebrations are some of the biggest and the best in the world and we have to say we agree! We have had a look and we want to share some of our top tips and tricks if you plan on spending the evening in Times Square and also some alternative options should you wish to ring in the new year elswhere!

Our Top Tips For New Years Eve in Times Square

If you want a prime spot for all of the performances, it is recommended that you get there by noon. If you’re heading to Times Square after 3pm, we recommend entering from the north. As the ball drops at the southern end, the area fills up from the bottom which means it’s a lot busier! Don’t forget you can only access Times Square from Sixth Avenue and Eighth Avenue only on New Year’s Eve.

What time do the festivities start? Well, at 6pm, the Times Square New Year’s Eve Ball is raised to the top of the pole at One Times Square. Shortly after, the Times Square Alliance sanitation crew usually distribute thousands of party favors, including hats, glasses, noisemakers – so make sure you don’t miss out and join in the fun. The live, televised show and performances start at 8pm.

If you need any additional help to organise your trip to Times Square on New Year’s Eve, just ask any of our team who will be happy to help.

Watch The Fireworks

When the clock strikes 12, the New York skyline is lit up with numerous fireworks! We want to make sure you have the best view of the cities spectacular firework displays, so we have put together a list of where to watch them

1. Times Square – join the crowds for one of New York’s biggest events
2. Spend the evening in Central Park – They are set off from Cherry Hill, Bow Bridge and the Belvedere Castle
3. Brooklyn Bridge – look back at the city as the famous skyline is lit up with some of the best fireworks

If heading out into the cold this New Years Eve isn’t for you, don’t forget to join us at The Fitz Bar or The Wheeltapper Pub, our team will be making sure all of our guests are set and ready for the evening’s festivities and if you’re joining us for midnight – we’ll be happy to provide each guest with a glass of bubbly to toast to the New Year!

Is your New Year’s resolution a trip to New York city? Make sure you check out our exciting new 20+20 in 2020 Special Offer where you can enjoy 20% off our best available rate and 20% off food and beverages in our bars. Find out more.

Are you visiting us this January? We’ve put together a list of the top things you can do while you’re in the city! Don’t forget to ask our team for help with ideas, attractions and bookings when you stay with us at Fitzpatrick Hotels New York.

Jazz Festival
Date: 8 Jan – 18 Jan | Location: Various Locations

NYC Winter Jazzfest is a destination for avid jazz fans, industry professionals, and new listeners to get together and experience the exciting and vibrant contemporary jazz scene in New York. Winter Jazzfest’s programming is inclusive of a broad spectrum of musical styles under the banner of jazz.

Shop The Sales

January is a great time to snap up some bargains in New York! The post Christmas Sales are in full swing, so why not treat yourself to something extra special to commemorate your stay in New York? We recommend visiting the department stores including Macy’s and Bloomingdale’s or visiting the different stores located along 5th Avenue.

Big Apple Circus
Date: 8 Jan – 2 Feb | Location: Lincoln Center

The Big Apple Circus is a circus based in New York City. Opened in 1977. It has become a major tourist attraction. The circus is also known for its community outreach programs, including Clown Care, as well as its humane treatment of animals. It makes for a great family day or night out!

NYC Winter Outing
Date: 21 Jan – 9 Feb| Location: Various Locations

Back again, NYC Winter Outing is the perfect excuse to get out an enjoy all that the Big Apple has to offer this winter! With fantastic offers on a selection of Broadway shows, museums, attractions and tours will be available at a two-for-one price, and nearly 400 restaurants will offer prix-fixe menus, it’s the best reason to get out and about this January and February!

New York City Wine Fest
Date: 25 Jan | Location: The Tunnel Building

Travel through the world of wine at The Tunnel Building! You will have the chance to enjoy wine samples for their entire session paired with live entertainment, food and interactive games.

If you’re planning a trip for later in year, check out some of our exciting special offers.

Shop The Sales

January is a great time to snap up some bargains in New York! The post Christmas Sales are in full swing, so why not treat yourself to something special? We recommend visiting the department stores including Macy’s, Bloomingdale’s and Barneys New York!

Visit the Theater

With less tourists in the city, January is a great time to get tickets to some of Broadway’s most sought after shows including Hamilton, The Lion King, The Book of Mormon and Chicago! Remember to check out the NYC Winter Outing website for 2 for 1 tickets from January 21st through February 10th.

Holiday Train Show January 1st – 21st

With nearly a half-mile of track hosting over a dozen large-scale model railway locomotives, this is a great way to spend a few hours! For more information, take a look at The New York Botanical Gardens website.

The Winter Show January 18th – 27th

Looking for something a little different to do this weekend? Why not pay a visit to the Winter Show? It’s a leading art, antiques, and design fair in America, featuring 70 of the world’s top experts in the fine and decorative arts. It’s held every year in the historic Park Avenue Armory in New York City. The fair highlights a mix of works, dating from ancient times through the present day and maintains the highest standards of quality in the art market For more information, check out their website for more details

NYC Winter OutingJanuary 21st – February 10th

From January 21 through February 10, 2019, NYC & Company will launch its three signature programs simultaneously for the first time ever—NYC Broadway Week, NYC Restaurant Week® and NYC Must-See Week—on January 21. During this period, a selection of Broadway shows, museums, attractions and tours will be available at a two-for-one price, and nearly 400 restaurants will offer prix-fixe menus.

For more information head to their website.

The New York Boat ShowJanuary 23rd – 27th

Whether you’re in the market for a boat or just want to see the latest in marine technology, The New York Boat Show is the place to be. With its 110-year history, the show is recognized as the place to see the latest and greatest in boating. If this sounds like something that may float your boat (excuse the pun!) then head to Jacob Javits Convention Center, located on Eleventh Avenue, between 34th and 40th streets!

So you’re planning a trip to New York with the whole family, but you’re not sure what to do or where to go? We’ve got you covered with our top 6 list of family-friendly activities for you and the kids.

Central Park:
Kicking off our list is Central Park in Manhattan. It’s a great place to visit if you want to get some fresh air or fight back against your jet-lag after travel. With luscious green grass, plenty of playgrounds, and beautiful lakes, there’s always things to do in Central Park. Head over to the Central Park Zoo to see some unique animals, like the leopards, sea lions, and penguins. If you’re looking for more activities check out the central park website for full details on events being held in the park.

Top of the Rock:
Another fantastic attraction is the Top of the Rock observation deck in the Rockefeller Center. From 70 storeys up in the sky you get a fresh perspective of the New York skyline. Most notably you see the Empire State building at elevation and up close, like you’ve never seen it before. Pair up the visit with a guided tour of the building and learn about the history, art, and architecture of New York.

The Empire State Building:
You knew it was coming! The Empire State Building offers you New York’s most breathtaking view. On a clear day you can see all of Manhattan and the neighbouring boroughs. With 360º views in every direction you can see every building in New York. Be sure to take in the incredible lobby, with its 24-carat gold ceilings and walls, and the beautiful engravings. On the way up you can stop off at the museum, where you can learn about how the famous building was designed and built.

Times Square:
This one is a quintessential New York landmark and an absolute must-see, especially at night. The atmosphere at Times Square is electric and brightly lit by the flashing billboards and signs that light up the sky; the perfect family photo opportunity. Once the wonder and awe has worn off you can grab a bite to eat or head into one of the huge shops nearby. Be sure to check out the Disney, M&M, and Hershey stores and watch your kid’s eyes light up! You can also visit Broadway to see a show at one of the many theatres nearby.

Statue of Liberty:
It wouldn’t be a trip to New York if you didn’t visit the Statue of Liberty. Located off the coast of Jersey, the Statue of Liberty is only accessible by ferry. Keep in mind that this ferry is public transport, so you may not get a seat or a perfect view of the statue. The ferry goes to Staten Island and you can choose to simply see it from the boat or take another straight to the island it stands on.

9/11 Memorial at Ground Zero:
One of the more emotional locations on the list is the 9/11 Memorial at Ground Zero. The sight features a museum and memorial, both of which are stunning pieces of architecture. There are countless exhibitions and events being held at the museum, giving you the full history of the tragedy. The memorial features two one acre large pools at the base of where the North and South World Trade Center towers once stood.

Looking for some tips on what to do in New York in the coming months? We have compiled a list based on what our guests tell us they enjoy most!

Broadway: See A Show

In the quieter months of January and February, you can get tickets to see some of Broadway’s most famous shows including The Book of Mormon, The Lion King and Wicked! Make sure you check out NYC Winter Outing’s Broadway Offers between January 21st and February 10th, where you can avail of 2 for 1 tickets on some of the best Broadway shows! Check out their website to see their amazing offers.

Catch a Game

Why not head to Madison Square Garden? It’s basketball season so pay a visit to MSG and see the New York Knicks play at home. If basketball isn’t your pick, you can also catch the New York Rangers throughout February.

You can check out all of the upcoming games at Madison Square Garden on their website.

One World Observatory

Located on top of the tallest building in the Western Hemisphere, you will admire the unrivaled panoramic views of New York City from this unique location.

Tickets are available at oneworldobservatory.com.

Explore Grand Central

We love recommending a trip to Grand Central Terminal, especially since it’s located such a short distance from Fitzpatrick Grand Central! This world-famous landmark is much more than just a train station! With over 60 shops and 35 restaurants, a visit here is a must for anyone looking to enjoy a piece of New York City culture!
You can even catch a tour by heading to The Tours Office in the Terminal’s Main Concourse.

You can check out their website for more details on everything there is to see and do!

Visit A Museum

New York City is full of museums! Why not pass away a day exploring some of our favorite museums, there’s truly a museum to suit every interest, from art to science, fashion to history, we are sure you’ll find a museum that you will love!

We have listed some of the top museums in the city to help get you started on your adventure!

• Guggenheim
• The Metropolitan Museum of Art
• MOMA
• The Frick Collection
• Tenement Museum
• Museum of the City of New York
• Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum
• American Museum of Natural History

Walk in Central Park

There is nothing nicer than a walk through Central Park on a crisp cold winter’s day! Explore the city’s favorite urban escape and take some time to wander through one of the world’s most famous parks!

Why not check out our previous blog on Our Favourite Spots in Central Park

Walk Across The Brooklyn Bridge

Make sure you wrap up well if you plan on walking across this iconic New York landmark! The walk across the Brooklyn Bridge usually takes between 30 – 40 minutes, but the views of the Manhattan Skyline are not to be missed! Some of New York’s up and coming restaurants call Brooklyn home, so make sure you treat yourself to a delicious meal afterwards!

Are you looking for something to do this February in the city? Check out our guide to our top ways to spend your time in New York!

NYC Winter Outing – runs until February 10th

Make sure you don’t miss out on the last few days of NYC & Company’s NYC Winter Outing! Don’t forget that a selection of Broadway shows, museums, attractions and tours will be available at a two-for-one price, and nearly 400 restaurants will offer prix-fixe menus.

New York Fashion Week – February 8th – 16th

Love Fashion? Well then you need to visit New York during Fashion Week. With shows all over the city, prepare to see all of your favorite celebrities, fashion icons, designers and models as New York is filled to capacity with the who’s who of the fashion world! When walking around the streets of New York, make sure you keep your eyes peeled!

National Pizza Day – February 9th

At Fitzpatrick Hotels New York it is no different, we really love pizza. And we think it’s an essential part of New York life! So we have decided to share some of our favourite Pizza Spots with you!

Lombardi’s New York City was founded in 1905, it was the first pizzeria in The United States and the pizza is still great. With great pizza and good atmosphere, Lombardi’s is a good one if you are visiting New York as a family.

Joe’s Pizza – They call themselves ‘The Greenwich Institution’ because they really are! Open since 1975, they are a true classic and have been sharing their delicious pizzas with New Yorkers for over 38 years!

Robertas – Based in Brooklyn, don’t miss this spot, although be prepared to queue if you’re heading there! With really creative toppings, Roberta’s never fails to satisfy that pizza craving.

And last but not least, don’t forget about joining us for a slice at The Fitz! You might even catch Teddy Fitz tucking into his favorite!

Valentines Day – February 14th

We think New York is one of the most romantic cities out there, we may not have the Eiffel Tower but we do have The Empire State Building! We have listed out our favorite things for you to do with a loved one in the city that never sleeps!

Visit the Empire State Building, open until 2am, you can spend your evening on top of one of the iconic locations for many romantic films. Why not try to recreate the famous scene from An Affair To Remember with your loved one?

Take a romantic stroll around Central Park – another setting for many famous romantic scenes, a walk or cycle through Central Park with a loved one is the perfect way to enjoy Valentines.

Take in a Show – head to see your favorite shows on Broadway or head to a more intimate setting by visiting one of the numerous comedy clubs located across New York.

Don’t forget that if you ever need any advice on what to do in New York, you can ask any of our team members who will be more than happy to help you make the most of your time in the city!

 

New York is a city filled with museums, there is one to suit the tastes of everyone! Here, we have gathered the top 10 museums we think you will want to visit on your trip to New York! As always, we love to hear from our guests, so make sure you let us know your favorites!

Guggenheim

The Guggenheim Museum is instantly recognizable due to its appearance. It is one of the most significant architectural icons of the 20th century, designed by Frank Lloyd Wright, it was designated a National Historic Landmark in 2015. As well as its stand out appearance, visitors can experience a number of different exhibitions, including modern and contemporary art, performances and film screenings, occasionally there are also lectures by famous artists and critics! For those wanting to learn a bit more about the art housed there, you can enjoy one of the daily tours of the galleries led by the museum educators! The Guggenheim Museum is ever evolving, often adding new pieces to their collection and is definitely one to visit if you have the time to do so.
For more information or to book your visit, why not visit their site: https://www.guggenheim.org

The Metropolitan Museum of Art

With over 5,000 pieces of art, The Metropolitan Museum of Art, or The Met, as it is more commonly known is sure to have someone for everyone to enjoy and experience. Measuring almost a ¼ of a mile in length, with over 2 million square foot of space, The Met is a stand out building on the East Side of Central Park and Fifth Avenue. The Met’s permanent collection consists of works of art from classical antiquity and ancient Egypt, paintings, and sculptures from nearly all the European masters, and an extensive collection of American and modern art.
For more information, please see their website: https://www.metmuseum.org

MOMA

In 2000, The Museum of Modern Art and P.S.1 Contemporary Art Center merged, creating the largest platform for contemporary art in the United States — and also one of the largest museums in the world, dedicated to modern and contemporary art! The Modern Museum of Art is located in central Manhattan at 11, W 53rd Street only a short walk from both Fitzpatrick Hotels.
For more information or to book your visit, why not visit their site: https://www.moma.org

The Frick Collection

Located in the Henry Click Frick House, on the Upper East Side of Manhattan, The Frick Collection is dedicated to preserving the art collection of Henry Frick. Henry Frick collected a number The museum opened in 1935 and has continued to acquire works of art since Mr. Frick’s death. The collection features some of the best-known paintings by major European artists including Vermeer, Rembrandt and Monet.
For more information or to book your visit, why not visit their site: https://www.frick.org

Tenement Museum

Opened in 1988, The Tenement Museum is located at 103 Orchard Street. The Tenement Museum has carefully and successfully restored 7 apartments and a German Beer Saloon. The aim of the Tenement Museum was to preserve and interpret the history of immigration through the personal experiences of the generations of newcomers who settled in and built lives on Manhattan’s Lower East Side, America’s iconic immigrant neighborhood. It enhances appreciation for the profound role immigration has played and continues to play in shaping America’s evolving national identity.
It is important to note that the Museum can only be seen by guided tour, for more information or to book your visit today, please see their website: https://www.tenement.org

Museum of the City of New York

Founded in 1923, the visit of this museum is to give visitors an understanding of New York by celebrating, documenting, and interpreting the city’s past, present, and future. Featuring over 750,000 objects, depicting the story of New York, it is a true tribute to the city.
For more information or to book your visit today, please see their website: https://www.mcny.org

Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum

Located at Pier 86, The Intrepid Museum welcomes over 1 million visitors a year! The Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum is an American Military and Maritime Museum featuring aircraft, spacecraft and a collection of ships. One of it’s biggest attractions is the Space Shuttle Enterprise, built by NASA, it was the world’s first space shuttle.
For more information or to book your visit today, please see their website: https://www.intrepidmuseum.org

American Museum of Natural History

If you’re a fan of the movie A Night At The Museum, then this museum is a must-see for you! Founded in 1869, it is now one of the largest museums in the world, with over 33 million different specimens and artifacts! With lots and lots to explore, we recommend allowing a day if you want to explore all that the museum has to offer!
For more information or to plan your visit, take a look at their website: https://www.amnh.org

9/11 Memorial

The National September 11 Memorial Museum is the country’s principal institution for examining the implications of the events of 9/11, documenting the impact of those events and exploring the continuing significance of September 11, 2001.
To learn more about the museum or to plan your visit, please see their website: https://www.911memorial.org

Ellis Island & The Immigration Museum 

For many immigrants between 1892 and 1954, Ellis Island was the gateway to The United States. The Ellis Island National Museum of Immigration is located in the Main Building of the former immigration station complex, it tells the story of the 12 million immigrants who passed through its doors, using artifacts, photographs, prints, videos, interactive displays and much more! The Museum allows visitors to explore the immigrant arrival records stored in the Port of New York Passenger Records between 1820-1957.
To learn more about the museum or to book tickets, please visit their website: https://www.libertyellisfoundation.org/

If you’re planning a stay in New York soon, make sure you join us at Fitzpatrick Hotels New York, don’t forget to check out our latest special offers on fitzpatrickhotels.com

The Armory Show
March 7th – 10th

Now in its 25th year, The Armory Show takes place at Piers 92/94. It is a premier art fair and a leading cultural destination for discovering and collecting the world’s most important 20th- and 21st-century art. Welcoming over 65,000 visitors each year, the show aims to provide a platform for new artists to present.

St. Patrick’s Day Parade
March 16th

The St. Patrick’s Day Parade is one of the oldest parades in New York City. The parade usually starts at 11 AM on 44th Street and 5th Avenue and then runs north along Central Park, turning east on 86th Street and finally ending on 3rd Avenue. For more information on the parade, make sure you check out the official website https://www.nycstpatricksparade.org/parade/

St. Patrick’s Day
March 17th

Make sure you visit us at Fitzpatrick Hotels New York to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day! We’ll have lots happening and it’s also Teddy Fitz’s birthday so it’s double the celebrations!

Macy’s Flower Show
March 24th – April 7th

The Macy’s Flower Show is a sure sign that Spring is here! The whole department store at Herald Square is filled with flowers, making for a unique shopping experience! This year the theme is ‘Journey to Paradisios’, allowing their customers to immerse themselves in an experience that’s out of this world!

Explore the Park’s of New York City

March is the perfect month to explore the parks of NYC! There’s nothing we love more than a trip to Central Park on a sunny Spring day, make sure you check out our previous guide to Central Park if you’re looking for everything to see and do!

Don’t forget to check out our Spring Fling and Easter Things offer if you’re planning a trip to New York in the coming months!

Are you planning a trip to New York with your family this year? We have picked our top things to do with your family this year in New York.

1. Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum

Located at Pier 86, The Intrepid Museum welcomes over 1 million visitors a year! The Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum is an American Military and Maritime Museum featuring aircraft, spacecraft and a collection of ships. One of it’s biggest attractions is the Space Shuttle Enterprise, built by NASA, it was the world’s first space shuttle.
For more information or to book your visit today, please see their website. Or if you fancy visiting some of the other museums in New York, take a look at our Top Museums to Visit.

2. Central Park

No trip to New York is complete without a visit to Central Park, located between Fifth Avenue and Eighth Avenue and running from 59th Street to 110th Street, it is the most visited urban park in the United States. With a zoo, a castle and the sets of many famous movies! You can spend a day exploring all that Central Park has to offer! If you want to visit some of our favorite spots, make sure you check out our Central Park blog!

3. Brooklyn Bridge

At over 125 years old, this iconic structure provides great views of the East River and the Manhattan Skyline just remember to snap a few pics. The walk across the Brooklyn Bridge usually takes between 30 – 40 minutes, but the views of the Manhattan Skyline are not to be missed! Some of New York’s up and coming restaurants call Brooklyn home, so make sure you treat yourself to a delicious meal afterwards!

4. Walk along the High Line

The High Line is a grand example of New York ingenuity. Formerly an abandoned freight rail line elevated above Manhattan’s West Side, the High Line is now one of NYC’s most popular parks offering scenic views that no other green space can provide. Now is the perfect time to visit as the flowers are in full bloom. Plan ahead to attend one of their garden tours or to see a concert overlooking Manhattan’s busy streets. Afterwards, visit Chelsea Market, an indoor marketplace renowned for its wide variety of eateries and shops.

5. Take in a show on Broadway

Seeing a show on Broadway is an experience not to be missed! With shows such as The Lion King, Wicked and Aladdin, there is something to suit everyone in the family! For more information or to see what’s on when you’re in New York, take a look at the Broadway website

6. Empire State Building

The most iconic New York city building, The Empire State Building stands at 20 W 34th St. Head to the 86th-floor observation deck! On a clear day, you can see for over 80 miles! An experience that the whole family can enjoy together, you can get your tickets on their website

Remember, you can always contact our concierge team to help with any bookings or trips you would like to organize.