Category: Uncategorized

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.

We decided to put together a list of our favorite facts about New York City! Make sure you let us know if you have any facts or pieces of wisdom that we should add to the list!

 

Oysters were so popular in New York in the 19th century that the shells were used to pave Pearl Street. They were also used for lime for the masonry of the Trinity Church.

New York City became the first capital of the United States in 1789.

The New York Public Library has over 50 million books! Have you been to visit? It’s only a ten minute walk from our hotel at Grand Central so there’s no excuse!

Times Square got its name from the New York Times! Before they moved their offices there, the area was known as Longacre Square.

The first subway line was opened in New York in 1904. Today, the subway system is the largest mass transit system in the world with 468 stations and 1355 km of track.

There are over 13,000 licensed medallion taxis work the streets of New York City, so you’ll always be able to catch a cab!

The Statue of Liberty as many already know was a gift from France, given to America in 1886. However, what you might not know is that from the ground to the top of the torch the statue measures 93 metres, and weighs 204 metric tonnes. The statue was shipped as 350 pieces in 214 crates and took 4 months to assemble at its current home on Ellis Island.

The price of a slice of pizza and the cost of a subway ride are almost always the same. Back in the 1980’s, New Yorker’s began to notice that the price of a subway ride and a slice of pizza are almost always equal.

Brooklyn is the most populated borough in New York City.

It is said that there are 800 different languages spoken in New York City!

25% of the world’s gold bullion is stored in the Federal Bank Reserve’s vaults.

The ice cream cone, pasta primavera and eggs Benedict were all invented in New York City.

 

If you’re planning a trip to New York, make sure you check out our Special Offers at Fitzpatrick Hotels New York.

If you’re visiting New York this month, then make sure you check out our favorite things to do in the city.

 

Visit Governors Island

Come the 1st of May, Governors Island is open to visitors. Governors Island is a 172-acre island, located in the heart of New York Harbour, it’s only a short ferry ride from Manhattan or Brooklyn.  Throughout the summer, numerous events are held on the island so it is always worth checking their website before making the trip.

Cinco De Mayo
May 5th, 2019

Cinco De Mayo is a Mexican Holiday that commemorates the Mexican defeat of the French army at the Battle of Puebla in 1862. All over New York, there are different events and celebrations. If you’re looking for something to do then why not check out the Cinco De Mayo Parade that is hosted Uptown on Central Park West at 106th St to 97th St.

Mothers Day
May 12th, 2019

If you’re celebrating with your Mum in New York this year, why not call in to Fitzpatrick Grand Central or Manhattan to enjoy a bite to eat? You might even bump into Teddy Fitz!

Shakespeare in the Park
May 21st, 2019 – August 11th, 2019

Shakespeare in the Park runs from May 21 through August 11, 2019. With few exceptions, performances are Tuesday through Sunday at 8pm and is held in the Delacorte Theater in Central Park. It’s a popular event which means tickets aren’t always easy to come by. For more information check out The Public Theater’s website.

Fleet Week

Fleet Week offers members of the Navy and Marines the opportunity to experience New York City, while giving the public a chance to meet members of today’s maritime services. You can tour Navy ships, watch military formations and see a special screening of Top Gun on the deck of the USS Intrepid.

For a full list of events taking place, make sure you check out their website. Many of the events are free so if you’re in town be sure to check them out.

Visit the Vessel – NY’s newest landmark

Located in Hudson Yards, The Vessel is New York City’s newest landmark! Already loved by tourists, it’s worth visiting The Vessel if you’re in that part of town. If you would like to go inside The Vessel’s centrepiece spiral staircase, then you can book tickets on their website in advance of your visit but same-day tickets are also available.

Are you visiting New York this Memorial Day weekend? We have put together a list of all of the different things you can do. If you are planning on staying in the city, it’s a good weekend to visit the different attractions in New York as they tend to be quieter as many New Yorkers travel out of the city for the weekend.

What is Memorial Day?

Memorial Day is observed on the last Monday of May, honoring the men and women who have died while serving in the U.S. military. Its origins date back to the end of the Civil War when it was known as Decoration Day. Many Americans observe Memorial Day by visiting cemeteries or memorials, holding family gatherings and participating in parades.

It’s also the unofficial beginning of the summer season!

Fleet Week

Fleet Week offers members of the Navy and Marines the opportunity to experience New York City, while giving the public a chance to meet members of today’s maritime services. You can tour Navy ships, watch military formations or see a special screening of Top Gun on the deck of the USS Intrepid.
For a full list of events taking place, make sure you check out their website. Many of the events are free, so if you’re in town be sure to check them out.

Little Neck Douglas Memorial Day Parade

The largest of the city’s Memorial Day parades and takes place on Monday, May 27th. You can honor those lost in battle by cheering on veterans, the local members of the military, marching bands, brownie troops and boy scouts marching from Northern Boulevard in Queens from Great Neck to Douglaston. A wreath-laying ceremony at the Veterans Monument in the courtyard of St. Anastasia Church elegantly finishes off the parade.

Visit Coney Island

A trip to Coney Island is the perfect day out for all the family! With rollercoasters, an aquarium, lots of restaurants and shops, it’s a day out that everyone is sure to enjoy. If you’re thinking of visiting, then make sure you check out their website coneyislandfunguide.com

Memorial Day Concert

The annual Memorial Day concert at Green-Wood Cemetery, in Brooklyn features the New York City Symphonic Band in a free afternoon performance at 2.30pm. There are also local vendors are on hand to provide food and refreshments. To find out everything you need to know, then make sure you take a look at their website green-wood.com

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. We’ve picked some of our favorite places for you to visit so make sure you check out our previous blog.

And if you’re planning to visit New York later in the summer, make sure you check out our new special offers.