9 Great Ideas for a New York City Staycation
When your heart says “go” but your bank account says “no,” consult our nine great ideas for a New York City staycation. A beach getaway, European escape, and more adventures can be found much closer than you might think. Set up your “out of office” message—you’re going on a staycation.
1. Have an Asian-inspired spa day at the Mandarin Oriental
Spa, Health Spa
2. Explore the real Little Italy on Arthur Avenue in the Bronx
Park, Building
3. Learn to cook Italian food at Eataly’s La Scuola
Greengrocer, Market, Restaurant, Grocery Store, Bar, Charcuterie, Butcher, Fishmonger, Cheesemonger, Italian
If you like to get your hands (and not just your plates) dirty, learn to prepare your favorite pasta dishes, cheeses, and more at an authentic Italian cooking class. Surrounded by fine Italian products, Eataly’s La Scuola offers a mouth full of Italian in the heart of Manhattan. Classes like “Hands-On Fresh Pasta Intensive Workshop” and “Lots of Mozz(arella)” are the staycation experiences you’ve been craving.
4. Enjoy sun and surf at Rockaway Beach
Natural Feature
5. Experience a not-so-urban jungle at New York Botanical Garden
Botanical Garden, Museum, Park, Zoo
6. Discover Staten Island
Park, Building
7. Have a timeless night out at the Metropolitan Opera House
Opera House
8. Pretend you’re on Cape Cod aboard the Frying Pan
Bar, Restaurant, American
Fly above the city on a helicopter tour
Is it technically still a staycation if you have to board a flight? We’ll let you decide, but one thing is certain: soaring above one of the world’s most famous cities and enjoying a bird’s-eye view of icons such as the Brooklyn Bridge and Central Park feels like the most epic escape you’ve never considered.
Culture Trips launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes places and communities so special.
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