NYC Getaway Weekend

This post has been sponsored by IHG Hotels and Resorts. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Since I work in fashion, I travel to New York City regularly for work but usually just for a quick night or two. Since my trips are so brief, I’m often itching to come back to explore for a little NYC getaway weekend to just enjoy this vibrant and bustling city! Recently, I booked a two-night stay, but this time, it was just for fun! I chose the InterContinental New York Barclay, nestled right in Midtown Manhattan, so I’d be in an easy central location and would also have a cozy, luxurious refuge to retire to.

GETTING THERE:

Since I’m back and forth between NYC and Boston so often, I’ve truly tried every single method of transportation available to me. I’ve taken the train, I’ve flown, I’ve taken the bus, I’ve driven myself, and I’ve even taken a car service. I’ve literally tried everything! But since my current lifestyle means I’m splitting my time between Boston and the Berkshires, I’m not always in Boston to easily jump on a train or plane.

Little known secret: the easiest (in my opinion) and least expensive way to travel to NYC from anywhere in Massachusetts is to drive to Stamford and take the MetroNorth from there. It takes me about two hours from either Boston or the Berkshires to drive to the Stamford, CT train station. I will park in the garage there and leave my car. It’s only about $12 per 24 hours to park so if you go for the weekend (or even a long weekend), it’s totally reasonable.

Then, I hop on the MTA from Stamford to Grand Central. Depending on the time of day (peak or off-peak), the price will vary but will likely not be more than $20. Again, very reasonable.

I’ve found the train from Boston can be rather pricey—sometimes even more expensive than flying. Flying means quicker travel time, but it can be quite a hassle in terms of getting to the airport, going through security, and boarding the plane. Door-to-door, it ends up being about the same amount of time as taking the train. And with either of these options, you are completely tied to the predetermined schedule. Although the trains run fairly regularly, you’re in trouble if you miss it!

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WHERE TO STAY:

Upon getting off the train at Grand Central Station, the InterContinental New York Barclay is just a short 5-minute walk away. I chose the InterContinental New York Barclay hotel because it’s a little refuge of luxury amidst the bustling city. Plus, its central location means I can visit all of my favorite spots within reason.

The best part of any getaway is the fluffy hotel bathrobes…am I right?! And the cozy slippers, of course! I got in fairly late in the evening, so you know I slipped right into my robe and slippers and cuddled up for a night in. If I wasn’t so tired, I would DEFINITELY have ordered room service.

I love the intersection of the old world New York decor motif with super modern amenities. I felt right at home with the comfiest of beds and switched the smart TV right on. A wall mural of historic New York, contrasted with black and white tile flooring and a super luxurious white marble bathroom, gave me serious design inspo for my future home.

In the morning, I hung out at the InterContinental hotel restaurant for the most expansive and delicious continental breakfast. Afterward, I got to work on one of the lobby couches with my laptop and latte in hand. I love working in a bustling environment—for some reason, it makes me feel inspired—and the plush seating all across the lobby was ideal.

Later on in the afternoon, I popped back into my room to change into athletic wear and headed to the fitness center. The fitness center has so many state-of-the-art machines, but I just hopped on an elliptical for a light cardio workout. Getting in some exercise definitely made me feel like I deserved a cocktail down at the bar afterward!

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EAT & DRINK:

Like every good vacationer, I planned my trip around food! Here are a few of my favorite spots in the neighborhood

Gin Parlour – The restaurant right in the lobby of the InterContinental New York Barclay is a great option for breakfast. The spread is extensive, and the scrambled eggs are some of the fluffiest and creamiest I’ve ever had. Stop by the bar in the evening for a drink. The cocktail selection is very unique. I recently got a “Dirty Aperol Spritz,” which combined two of my favorite drinks: a Dirty Martini and an Aperol Spritz. You’d be surprised at how well these flavors worked together (and THREE olives is a win in my book).

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Urbanspace Vanderbilt – This is just a quick 5-minute walk from the hotel and is a vibrant, upscale foodcourt. There’s so much to offer, from fresh juices and salads to oysters and pizza—and even doughnuts and crepes. If you’re traveling with a group, this is a MUST because everyone will surely find something they like. My favorite is the Chinese crepe from Mr. Bing.

The Smith– Another spot within a 5 to 10-minute walk from the InterContinental New York Barclay Hotel, The Smith is great for drinks and comfort food. It has a buzzing, vibrant atmosphere and the specials are always spot on. If you’re ever there on a Taco Tuesday, be sure to try the fish tacos.

Little Collins – For a solid cup of coffee, take another 5 to 10-minute walk up Lexington Avenue to Little Collins. It’s a little tight inside but if you just want a quick (but amazing!) cup of coffee on the go, this is your spot.

Felix Roasting Co. – For the cutest coffee shop around, venture a little further away to Felix Roasting Co. If you want to enjoy an amazing matcha latte with a homemade nut milk blend (almond, cashew and pepita—are you kidding me?!) in an aesthetically pleasing environment, this is your spot.

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Estiatorio Milos – One of my all-time favorite restaurants in NYC is in Midtown, and I always make an effort to get to Milos. The seafood is flown in daily from the Mediterranean, so it really is the freshest of the fresh! And the Greek salad is like no other. With a nice wedge of the highest quality feta, I’m in heaven!

NYC is really quite close to Boston, and even closer to the Berkshires, but it feels like worlds away. I definitely don’t make an NYC getaway trip for leisure often enough, but I’m already planning a fun trip back just to hit all my favorite restaurants.

What are your favorite spots for an NYC getaway? I’m always adding to my list!

XO -Leigha