Sarah Funk

The Peninsula New York is the ultimate luxury stay in NYC. Located on Fifth Avenue in Midtown Manhattan, this 5-star hotel offers newly renovated rooms and suites blending classic elegance with modern comfort. Start your day with a swim in the glass-enclosed rooftop pool, then unwind at the award-winning Peninsula Spa. Enjoy contemporary American cuisine at Clement Restaurant, or sip cocktails at the chic rooftop bar, Pen Top, offering stunning city views. With its prime location, you're steps away from Central Park, Rockefeller Center, and the best shopping on Fifth Avenue. For a luxurious NYC experience that combines style, comfort, and convenience, The Peninsula is a must-stay.

The Refinery Hotel blends industrial-cool vibes with total luxury like exposed brick, high ceilings, and sleek decor in every room. The rooftop? Iconic. Enjoy epic Empire State Building views, craft cocktails, and vibes for days. You're also walking distance to Bryant Park, Times Square, and Fifth Ave shopping. Plus, there's a swanky on-site restaurant and fitness center. It’s giving style, comfort, and location all in one. Total NYC hidden gem.

Hotel 48LEX New York is a stylish boutique hotel in Midtown East, offering a peaceful escape. Its 116 "studio" rooms feature floor-to-ceiling windows, kitchenettes with mini-fridges, microwaves, espresso makers, plush bedding, and spa-like bathrooms with rainfall showers. And, for an even more luxurious stay, you can stay in the Lexington Penthouse, which is amazing! Guests enjoy free Wi-Fi, a 24-hour fitness center, and a daily manager’s reception with wine and bites - a rarity in NYC for sure! You're within walking distance of Grand Central, Rockefeller Center, MoMA, Times Square, Bryant Park, and Fifth Avenue shopping. Nearby subway lines (6, E, M, 4, 5, 7) make exploring the city easy. On-site dining includes Brasserie Cognac, a modern French bistro serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner every day. Room rates typically range from $175 to over $800 per night, depending on the season.

The 9/11 Memorial & Museum is not just another tourist stop. It’s a powerful, moving experience that really grounds you. The twin reflecting pools are absolutely stunning and incredibly emotional, set in the exact footprints of the towers. Inside the museum, the stories, artifacts, and visuals are so immersive. It can feel heavy, but it's also deeply meaningful. You’ll walk out with a whole new appreciation for the resilience of this city and the people in it. It’s one of those places that stays with you. Trust me, go.