I was thoroughly delighted when a late night phone call from a friend turned into plans for a last minute trip to the Big Apple. We packed our bags and jumped on the Amtrak headed for the city. New York is hands down my favorite place. It may sound cheesy, but to me, the spirit of the city is what life is all about – it’s exhilarating and magical. So naturally, I never turn down a chance to visit.
3:00 P.M. – Arrival at Grand Central
There’s no feeling I’ve encountered quite like the moment you step through the doors exiting Grand Central and entering the magical world of Manhattan. Surrounded by the excitement of the city, it’s hard not to feel like you’ve been transported to another world – one where anything is possible.
4:00 P.M. – Check in at Sanctuary Hotel in Midtown
Located in the heart of Times Square, this hotel was a lovely retreat from the hustle and bustle. The low-lighting, water fixtures, and zen music make the Sanctuary Hotel just that.
5:00 P.M. – Drinks at the rooftop bar
Sanctuary Hotel is home to Haven Rooftop Bar, conveniently located just an elevator ride away. One hour and two Cosmos later, it was time to head a few blocks over to Gershwin theater for a performance of Wicked.
8:00 P.M. – Curtains
We sat down to see the Broadway sensation, Wicked, which has been making box office history since its release nearly two decades ago.
11:00 P.M. – A walk through Times Square
I’ve spent enough time in the city to be exhausted by the tourist attractions. I generally avoid Times Square like the plague, but there is something so magical about walking through it at night, nothing makes you feel more alive.
8:00 A.M. – Good Morning New York!
We headed uptown for Açaí bowls at Loco Coco.
9:00 A.M. – The Metropolitan Museum of Art
As an art history minor, I may be biased but the Met is my favorite place in the city. It always amazes me that in a city so full of commotion I can feel so at peace once I walk through those doors. My only complaint is that I didn’t have more time to spend here!
12:00 P.M. – Shopping on Madison Ave.
Well, window shopping that is.
12:00 P.M. – Lunch at Sarabeth’s
Sarabeth’s is my favorite NYC lunch spot, the cozy atmosphere is perfect for rainy days. My go-to? Grilled cheese and tomato soup (just like mom’s).
3:00 P.M. – Back to Boston
One three hour nap on the train later we were home!