The New York Experience: Exploring Midtown East
Article By: Ashley M Lands
— Visitors Guide —
MIDTOWN EAST
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MIDTOWN EAST -
This 2022 Travel series features an Insider's Look at New York City, what's reopened in the 5 Boroughs, the best economy hotels, as well as amazing adventures you don't want to miss!
These 3 articles cover: The Midtown East Experience (this article), Times Square Experience, and The 5th Avenue ExperiencE (including the empire state building).
A Brief History Of Midtown East
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History abounds in Midtown East. It has been the center of New York life for more than a century. It still feels like New York. It forms the city's primary central business district and is located in the Manhattan borough. In Midtown, you'll find some of the city's most recognizable buildings, such as the Empire State Building, the Chrysler Building, Hudson Yards Redevelopment Project, the United Nations headquarters, Grand Central Terminal, and Rockefeller Center, in addition to Broadway and Times Square, which become famous for their displays of art and architecture.
The majority of New York City's skyscrapers, including its tallest hotels and apartment towers, are in Midtown. The area hosts commuters and residents working in its offices, hotels, and retail establishments, tourists and students. Times Square, the brightly illuminated hub of the Broadway Theater District, is a major center of the world's entertainment industry. Sixth Avenue also has the headquarters of three of the four major U.S. television networks.
New York, New York
IF YOU'RE PLANNING TO STAY IN NEW YORK CITY IN 2022, THERE ARE NO SHORTAGES OF AMAZING THINGS TO SEE.
This list does not cover it all, for sure, there is so much NY has to offer her guests — however, these are some of my favorite recommendations for visitors, namely because: 1. The excursion says "Iconic New York" and 2: The activity is rich with history that can only be found here!
Jump to Activities
Jump to Accomodations
Jump to Dining
Where to stay
Courtyard New York Manhattan/Midtown East
866 Third Avenue, NY, NY 10022
In 2022, we’re all searching for budget-friendly travel options - where to save money without losing out on comfort and style. Something to consider for your trip is an economy hotel. Economy hotels are small to medium-sized hotel establishments that offer basic accommodations. The hotels in this category, often built by big names in hospitality (such as Marriott and Hilton), can be more affordable.
Courtyard New York Manhattan/Midtown East is close to, Central Park, Times Square, historical landmarks, and iconic attractions. In addition, it is a wonderful location for those who wish to visit New York's waterways and see the Statue of Liberty, Battery Park, Tribeca, or eat at any of the numerous restaurants on the southern tip of Manhattan!
(tap to open)
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Lodging in the heart of Times Square might seem like a dream for first-time visitors and those who love all the action, but it can be somewhat intimidating to others! If you’d like to be accessible to activities (but not in the middle of it) , this hotel is ideal for you! The 5 block radius surrounding The Courtyard New York Manhattan/Midtown East is filled with small, low-scale old buildings and shops so perfectly maintained they look as if they're part of a niche historical village! Their appearance is not at all in keeping with their exuberant surroundings!
A mezzanine/ visitors lounge with lovely views! The Courtyard Midtown East is situated perfectly to show you some lovely views of the midtown area. The space offers dining tables, a TV area, reading nook, separated conference space, as well as the 866 Bistro, all available for guests to enjoy.
This hotel offers Junior King Suites located on 14th Floor & above! They are quiet and spacious offering excellent views of the city! Room is equipped with a mini Fridge, Wireless internet, complimentary, Coffee/tea maker, & flat screen TV. This room type also offers mobility accessible rooms.
let's explore
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let's explore -
Must-See Excursions
CENTRAL PARK
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CENTRAL PARK -
central
park
Central Park continues to be enjoyed thoroughly by New Yorkers, as well as her visitors! The first public park in America, Central Park covers 843 acres and is one of the most visited parks in the world with over 25 million visitors annually. With over 50 fountains, monuments and sculptures, 36 bridges and arches, 21 official playgrounds as well as miles of paved paths, walkways and roads for the carriages, Central Park is a beauty to behold. The design and detail is truly breathtaking. Central park is a must see while visiting! The Park has so many areas, I’ve outlined some of my favorite entree points and locations in the dropdowns below. If you’re looking for a guide to the Best Photography spots, we outlined them in this article, scroll to #10 for the Central Park Breakdown!
Unique Places In Central Park
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The Conservatory Garden is a formal garden near the northeastern corner of Central Park in Upper Manhattan, New York City. Comprising 6 acres, it is the only formal garden in Central Park. Conservatory Garden takes its name from a conservatory that stood on the site from 1898 to 1935.
It is also a favored photography spot for Photographers & Bloggers alike! This area is covered with beautiful cherry blossom blooms each spring!Address: 1233 5th Ave, New York, NY 10029
Hours:
Tuesday 8AM–6PM
Wednesday 8AM–6PM
Thursday 8AM–6PM
Friday 8AM–6PM
Saturday 8AM–6PM
Sunday 8AM–6PM
Monday
(4th of July)
8AM–6PM
Hours might differ
Phone: (212) 310-6600
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Address: East 72nd Street and Park Drive North New York, NY
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RowboatsWeather permitting–from April through November, a fleet of rowboats are available for rent from 10am until dusk.
Boats are $20 per hour (cash only), $5 for each additional 15 minutes with a $20 cash deposit. Each boat holds up to 4 people.
The Loeb Boathouse will provide life jackets.
Gondola
Take a romantic ride around the lake with our expert gondoliers. If you're lucky, they may even sing for you. Gondola season begins on May 1st.
Gondola rides are $50 per half hour and must be reserved in advanced. Call 212.517.2233 to make your reservation.
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One of the most iconic features in Central Park, this miniature castle is located atop the huge rock outcrop known as Vista Rock, the second highest natural point in Central Park.
LOCATION: MID-PARK AT 79TH STREET (Link to Park Map) -
A Central Park favorite for young visitors, Turtle Pond is home to five species of turtles who live there year-round.
LOCATION: The starting location is Belvedere Castle (site link here) -
For more than 70 years, Wollman Rink has served as a unique skating and welcoming venue for New York City. Located in the heart of Central Park, the rink is dedicated to advancing all communities through connection and cultural celebration.
In recent years, the Rink has begun shifting the venue to offer rollerskating in the warmer months, and traditional ice-skating in the winter!
Operated by Wollman Park Partners, besides ice skating, the rink will offer live events, neighborhood and community events and artistic programming.
Lady Liberty
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Lady Liberty -
the statue of liberty
It is worthwhile to visit the waterways during your stay in Midtown East, especially during the warmer months! If do plan a trip to Manhattan's south end, seeing the Statue of Liberty can be a wonderful experience! In 1886, France presented the United States with The Statue of Liberty, which rises 93 meters above Upper New York Bay. An idea that started as a romantic notion and resulted in the most important gift in American history. A symbol of hope and spirit, she continues to welcome guests today!
Visit the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island:
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We chose a 1-hour cruise! This was the perfect amount of time to hear some fun history about Ellis island, Snap a photo with Lady Liberty, and enjoy a beverage at the ships ’s bar!
Listed below are some popular sites that offer 1-hour tours:
getyourguide.com
circleline.com (we chose this tour)
viator.com -
Relax on a comfortable boat as it takes you around New York Harbor and Manhattan for an enjoyable 2-hour afternoon cruise that includes an all-you-can-eat buffet and DJ music. View the Brooklyn Bridge, the Statue of Liberty, One World Trade Center, and the Empire State Building from a different perspective. Enjoy a delicious buffet lunch while you do so. Consider upgrading the afternoon to receive a welcome glass of champagne in a souvenir glass, a table suitable for your party size, and access to a platinum open bar.
From $104
Viator.com
getyourguide.com -
Book a 2-, 3-, 4- or 8-hour private daytime sailing tour, exploring a variety of breathtaking NYC sights, with up to six guests.
sailingislandernyc.com
tribecasailing.com -
The island has become a place where people and families honor and celebrate those who made the arduous journey to a new life in America.
You can visit statueoflibertytickets.com to see all of the available tour options for visiting!
Dining
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Dining -
Grand Banks Restaurant in Tribeca
Grand
Banks
(Tribeca)
Inspired by the floating "oyster barges" that lined Manhattan's waterfront in the 18th and 19th centuries, Grand Banks is a NY dining experience like no other. Enjoy sustainably harvested oysters, nautically inspired cocktails, and awe-inspiring views from the deck of this historic wooden schooner. Furthermore, this restaurant is located close to the Liberty Cruise Piers, making it the perfect companion to your Ellis Island excursion! Visit Their Website
midtown
dining
We have listed some dining recommendations near the hotel in the Midtown area!
ANGELO’S PIZZA
(0.2 Miles from the Hotel)
Voted #1 in NYC Pizza by Barstool Sports!
Angelo’s Pizza is a 4th generation pizza-making family dynasty that starts with the original Angelo, who humbly came to this country in the late 1930’s. Settling in New York City, he worked a lifetime making great and authentic Italian Pizza, first at various pizza shops around the city, and then at his own store, the legendary Pizza Chef, on Brooklyn’s Fulton Street.
OBAO (Midtown East)
(489 feet from Hotel)
OBAO bridges the gap from the streets of Southeast Asia to the Streets of NYC, offering combinations of various Thai and Vietnamese comfort foods with a twist. OBAO takes traditional dishes from Thailand and Vietnam like Pad Thai and Pho Noodles and adds a touch of luxury and elegance without ever compromising on authenticity. At OBAO, you will taste the highest quality ingredients while experiencing comfort through food you never thought was possible.
MAMAN (Rockefeller Center)
(0.7 Miles from Hotel)
Enjoy breakfast at Maman - A provincial style café, bakery, and restaurant. Their menu highlights favorites from the south of france and north america. You do not need a reservation to enjoy this establishment. They are best known for their use of vintage porcelain dishware - c'est trop mignon!
THE SMITH (Midtown)
(0.2 Miles from Hotel)
The Smith is classic brasserie-style restaurant offering food & drink perfect for a casual, yet sophisticated vibe. A go-to spot for after-work drinks, quick and comforting dinners, group celebrations, and to -go/delivery offerings.
more to do nearby
Explore other New York City attractions & Excursions we’re covering in this series!
Enjoy a Broadway show, a museum visit, or a helicopter ride high above the city! Find out what Times Square has to offer here.
Take in a sunrise at the Empire State Building. We’ve shared all the insiders info for planning your visit!
Visit Bryant Park -
Explore more in the 5th Avenue area that’s adjacent to North end of Times SQ
Go to: The 5th Avenue Experience
Also Nearby: Grand Central Terminal
THANKS FOR EXPLORING:
THE NEW YORK EXPERIENCE
(video recap)
The New York Experience 2022 - by Stuff Oui Love
We would like to thank The Courtyard New York Manhattan/Midtown East for inviting us to feature their business!
#marriottbonvoypartner
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Images by:
Victoria Potter-Lands
- 2nd Camera (Statue of Liberty): Nelson Morales Jr.
Also Featuring: Daniel Afonin
@Ashleymlands on Instagram
Random Musings, the Daily Edit, and Fashionable Moments for all
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Stuff Oui Love is aimed at the fashionable, independent traveller. By embracing local traditions, communities, and cuisine globally, Stuff Oui Love shares experiences that are as authentic as they are unique.
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Interested in Collaboration on one of our advertising platforms? Please email: stuffouilove@gmail.com -we’re pairing classic styles with modern stories.
If you’re searching for the perfect day trip from Manhattan, look no further than the historic town of Sleepy Hollow.