72 Hours in New York City
Spend three days eating, drinking, and exploring your way through the Big Apple during the December holiday season with these local recommendations from our on-site Concierge team.
It’s the most wonderful time of the year in New York City. Christmas lights twinkle on the trees, skaters glide across the ice in Bryant Park, and there’s a chill in the air. For those seeking some holiday cheer, look no further than The City That Never Sleeps—you will, however, be able to catch some very comfortable shut eye at the Exclusive Resorts residences.
If there ever was a time to visit, it’s now. The city is buzzing with life, but because of the pandemic, there are far less tourists and fewer crowds—meaning you can explore more of the city with greater peace of mind. Many restaurants, museums, shops, and sites have taken extra precautions to ensure you have a safe and memorable vacation.
Whether you’re traveling with your entire family or just a special someone, read on for our on-site Concierge team’s insider itinerary on how to spend three days in the Big Apple.
What To Do
Day 1
Morning | Have a leisurely morning sipping coffee while overlooking the breathtaking city view from your private home-away-from-home at Park Avenue Place.
Afternoon | Wander through The Whitney, a museum of modern and contemporary American art. You can easily see it all in about 90 minutes as it is relatively small. Due to limited capacity, reserve your tickets online in advance. Once you’ve had your art fix, take a three-minute stroll down the street to RH Rooftop for lunch.
Evening | Fans of the smash Broadway hit Hamilton can’t miss the Hamiltour—a tour based on the life of Alexander Hamilton and the inspiration for the show. In addition to seeing historical sites, expect to hear stories and secrets from the creation of the record-breaking musical. Be sure to book tickets in advance.
Day 2
Morning | For a heart-pounding and blood-pumping start to your second day, ride along to the beat of the music—while staying socially distanced—at one of SoulCycle’s SoulOutside outdoor classes.
Afternoon | Head over to Brooklyn for the Smorgasburg Winter Market. This buzzy indoor market is held on Saturdays and Sundays and features over 100 local food vendors and flea market finds.
Night | Hire a private driver for a ride through the Dyker Heights Christmas Lights, a residential street display featuring several blocks of homes strung with thousands of lights and holiday décor. Sip a cup of cocoa and crank up the carols as you drive slowly through, taking in the sparkling sight.
Day 3
Morning | For the ultimate photo opportunity, kids and kids at heart will love The Color Factory, an interactive exhibit featuring playful installations in every shade of the rainbow. Jazz up your Instagram with bright backdrops and colorful delights.
Late Morning | Located in Upper Manhattan, The Cloisters Museum features medieval art and architecture—and it is never too crowded.
Afternoon | After your museum tour, hike through Fort Tryon Park which boasts some of the highest elevation in Manhattan.
Night | Newly named one of the best al fresco restaurants in New York, the popular Parisian café La Mercerie has worked hard to create an incomparable dining experience complete with planters, heaters, and string lights for a welcoming atmosphere.
New York Day Trips
If you’re staying an extra day or want to explore destinations outside of the city, here are our top picks for day trips.
Beacon
Venture to Beacon to see the Dia Beacon modern art gallery and museum, located inside a former Nabisco factory. Admission is limited, so we recommend buying your tickets online in advance.
Cold Spring
Explore Bannerman Castle, hike in the beauty of nature, and breathe in the fresh air for a quick escape from city life.
Monticello Motor Club
An Exclusive Resorts partner, MMC hosts track driving adventures in a range of luxury vehicles, including BMW. Race around the track and perfect your skills during their winter driving experiences.
Wolffer Estate
For foodies and wine lovers, be sure to make the trip out to the incredible Wolffer Estate winery in Sagaponack. The rosé is not to be missed!
Where to Stay
The Club's luxury vacation residences at Park Avenue Place are located in the heart of the city—Midtown East. Soak in the sights of the city from floor-to-ceiling windows in the luxury residences, each outfitted in chic metropolitan flair and all of the comforts of home. With an exceptionally well-connected dedicated Concierge at your service, indulge in the very best of the city's sights and cultural charms.