Group Getaway in the City That Never Sleeps

New York City, a metropolis that pulses with life and brims with endless possibilities, is the ideal destination for a group getaway. Whether you’re exploring iconic landmarks, savoring diverse culinary delights, or choosing accommodations for your group, the Big Apple has something for everyone. In this guide, we’ll explore the best activities, dining experiences, and lodging options for groups in New York City.

Group-Friendly Activities in New York

New York City offers a wealth of group-friendly activities that are perfect for solo travelers looking to meet new people and socialize. Whether you’re interested in making new friends, networking, or simply enjoying the company of like-minded individuals, here are some group-friendly activities to consider in NYC.

Begin your group adventure with a visit to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. These historic sites offer insightful experiences into American immigration history. Consider booking a group tour for convenience. You can also rent bikes and embark on a group bike tour through the Central Park Group Bike Tour. You can cover more ground, see iconic sights like Bethesda Terrace and Strawberry Fields, and enjoy the park’s natural beauty. Another way to discover the city is with the Hop-On-Hop-Off Bus Tour

Art lovers in your group will appreciate a visit to MoMA, home to an impressive collection of modern and contemporary art. Group discounts are available, and guided tours can enhance your experience. Gather your group for a night of Broadway show entertainment. Choose from a variety of shows, from classic musicals to thought-provoking dramas. Group ticket discounts are often available. Explore the elevated High Line Park, an urban oasis featuring gardens and art installations. It’s a great place for group walks, and you can enjoy the views of the city below.

Opt for a group sightseeing cruise along the Hudson River with Circle Line. You’ll have an opportunity to see famous landmarks like the Statue of Liberty, the Empire State Building, and One World Trade Center. If your group includes history buffs and aviation enthusiasts, visit the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum. Explore the aircraft carrier USS Intrepid and learn about its rich history.

Citycard pass for groups in New York

  • The New York Turbo Pass is another well-regarded all-inclusive tourist pass for exploring the vibrant city of New York. Travelers can choose from passes valid for 1, 2, 3, 5, or 7 days, depending on their planned duration of stay. One standout service exclusive to the Turbo Pass is the provision of a complimentary airport transfer from LaGuardia, Newark, or JFK. This unique offering sets it apart from other passes and makes it an attractive option for those seeking convenient airport-to-hotel transportation. The price starts from $99 per adult. 
  • The New York Pass can be used at over 100 different New York City attractions and tours and can be purchased either a 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, or 10-day pass. The Pass comes with a travel booklet in English, Spanish, French, German, Dutch, Italian and Portuguese. This service is now offered exclusively on the Go City app. All you have to do is download it on your Smartphone and show your pass at the entrance to the attractions. Once you complete your purchase, you can use it immediately. The prices underneath each multiple-day pass listing are the average cost per day. The longer the pass, the lower the daily cost. The price for an adult is from $149.
  • The Sightseeing Flexpass offers the option to purchase 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 10, or 12 attractions chosen from an extensive list of 100+ top NYC attractions, tours, and museums. You can save up to 50% by using the FlexPass instead of buying entry to each attraction individually. You also get fast-track entry to several attractions. They also offer an all-inclusive pass, as well as sample itineraries to help with your planning. The price is from $79/adult. 
  • Go City New York Explorer Pass. This pass, like the New York Pass, is a mobile pass that can be used as a ticket for participating tours and attractions. The Go City New York Explorer Pass does not charge per day. Rather, you select a fixed number of attractions (3, 4, 5, 7, 10) that you want to visit during your time in NYC. You have over 90 attractions and tours to choose from. They provide sample itineraries to help you plan how to get the most out of your pass. Go City offers a 100% money-back guarantee for unused passes up to 1 year after your intended travel date, no questions asked, and no insurance to purchase. The price is from $72/adult. 
  • CityPASS is a digital pass that grants admission into 5 top attractions in New York City. The CityPASS is relatively flexible – you have 9 days to visit the included attractions in whatever order and at whatever times you would like. If the price of the pass works for your budget and you have several days in New York it could be a good option for you. Attractions included with CityPASS are the Empire State Building with an audio guide, The American Museum of Natural History, the 9/11 Memorial & Museum  OR  Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum, Top of the Rock Observation Deck OR the Guggenheim Museum and Statue of Liberty/Ellis Island Ferry OR a Circle Line Cruise. The price of this card is $129 for adults and $109 for children (ages 6-17).
  • The Big Apple Pass pass is very basic but if used wisely can save you time and money. This pass is best for people who are planning to visit a few attractions and like the convenience of having your pass before you even arrive in New York City. Unlike the CityPass booklet, this pass includes airport transfers. The price is Adult/Teen (17+) $79.

Group Dining Experiences in New York

Planning a group dinner in bustling NYC can be as challenging as securing a seat during rush hour on the subway. Downtown, a trendy Laotian eatery simplifies the process with online reservations, accommodating groups of up to 25 without the need for phone calls. In Midtown, a spacious French bistro puts a creative spin on the beloved shared appetizer with its butter board. Over in Brooklyn Heights, a family-style Palestinian restaurant serves up some of the borough’s most generously portioned entrées.

Ilili

For an unforgettable dining experience featuring some of Manhattan’s finest contemporary Lebanese cuisine, look no further than Ilili‘s inviting and sultry amber-hued dining room. Alternatively, indulge in a lavish feast within one of their stylish and private event spaces, which can accommodate groups ranging from 12 to 300 guests, characterized by wood-paneled walls and vibrant red chairs.

Opt for a family-style set menu that showcases Ilili’s culinary highlights, including seared lamb chops with za’atar salsa verde and hearth-baked loup de mer. And be sure not to miss out on the Lebanese wine pairings, thoughtfully sourced from the picturesque Bekaa Valley. For those seeking an extra special soirée, Ilili offers the Arabian Nights package, complete with traditional decor and a mesmerizing belly dance performance.

Yakiniku Toraji

Treat your loved ones to a delightful group barbecue experience while entrusting all the details to the experts. Toraji, an esteemed Tokyo import that first opened its doors in 1995, has truly mastered the art of grilling meats to perfection. Its New York location boasts expansive grill-top tables and numerous semi-private dining spaces, creating an ideal setting for group gatherings.

The star of the show is the shareable menu, featuring an array of premium beef and seafood options, all grilled to order. This culinary journey transforms your meal into a memorable and communal experience. Set menus are available, starting at $78, while à la carte selections offer a variety of rice bowls and noodle soups, ensuring that even the most discerning diners can find dishes to satisfy their preferences.

Oceans – New York

Oceans offers a lavish dining experience within its brass-and-leather adorned interior, featuring plush banquettes, semi-private dining areas, and a stunning undulating ceiling design inspired by the historic archways of NYC. This setting is tailor-made for elegant group celebrations.

The menu at Oceans draws inspiration from the Mediterranean coasts, as well as the bountiful Pacific and Atlantic oceans. Begin your culinary journey with exquisite sushi and a refreshing seafood plateau before savoring Maryland crab cakes and Dover sole, elegantly dressed in almond caper brown butter. 

In addition to these delectable offerings, Oceans caters to a variety of dietary preferences with thoughtful vegetarian options, including the enticing cauliflower steak served with Israeli couscous, almonds, and a zesty lemon caper vinaigrette. With its diverse menu and refined ambiance, Oceans promises to captivate the palates of both omnivores and herbivores alike.

Temple Court (Financial District)

Located just a stone’s throw away from The Beekman Hotel’s magnificent nine-story atrium, this Art Deco-inspired restaurant, led by the renowned chef Tom Colicchio, offers a picturesque escape. The restaurant’s stained-glass windows, aglow with gentle light, create a charming backdrop for gatherings of all sizes.

Temple Court presents a family-style dining experience tailored for groups ranging from 15 to 24 guests. This elegant and seasonal dinner party showcases a delectable array of Italian-inspired dishes. Highlights include chestnut agnolotti adorned with black truffle and Brussels sprouts, succulent roasted chicken served with spigarello (an Italian heirloom green), and a delightful finale of roasted pear sorbet for dessert. Temple Court promises an exquisite culinary journey for your group in a captivating Art Deco setting.

Chelsea Market

Chelsea Market, an iconic culinary destination, has transcended its humble beginnings to become a globally recognized brand. Nestled in the heart of New York City’s vibrant Meatpacking District, this marketplace has earned its status as one of the world’s premier indoor food and retail hubs.

Distinguished by a diverse array of merchants, Chelsea Market is far more than a conventional food hall, it’s a bustling marketplace where culinary enthusiasts can embark on a gastronomic adventure. Visitors have the opportunity to peruse the region’s finest fishmonger, procure top-quality cuts of meat from a renowned whole-animal butcher, indulge in artisanal cheeses, stock up on fresh produce, and acquire imported Italian dry goods.

Smorgasburg

Smorgasburg, a culinary phenomenon, has grown into the largest weekly open-air food market in the United States. This epicurean extravaganza beckons thousands of visitors each weekend. The market made its debut on May 21, 2011, as an offshoot of the Brooklyn Flea, established in 2008. Over the years, Smorgasburg has not only nurtured numerous small businesses but has also captivated millions of enthusiastic food lovers. Smorgasburg’s expansion continued with a Sunday market featuring 70 vendors in downtown Los Angeles in June 2016, drawing a staggering 10,000 visitors weekly.

Distinguished by its vibrant atmosphere and diverse array of local vendors, Smorgasburg has earned the moniker ‘The Woodstock of Eating,’ as lauded by The New York Times.

Group-Friendly Lodging Options in New York

New York City offers an abundance of group-friendly lodging options to cater to the diverse needs and preferences of travelers. Whether you’re visiting with friends, family, or colleagues, there are accommodations suitable for various group sizes and budgets. When booking group accommodations in NYC, it’s essential to plan well in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons. Consider factors such as location, budget, group size, and specific preferences to choose the best lodging option for your trip to the Big Apple.

Maybe the first option you think about for someplace to rent is a hotel. NYC offers a diverse range of hotels suitable for groups of all sizes and budgets. Major hotel chains like Marriott, Hilton, and IHG have multiple properties in the city, providing consistent quality and amenities. For a luxurious experience, consider options like The Ritz-Carlton and The St. Regis. Other options is Vacation Rentals, platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo offer an array of vacation rentals, including apartments, condos, and townhouses, which are ideal for accommodating larger groups. These rentals often provide more space, kitchen facilities, and a homey atmosphere.

Boutique Hotels

In contrast to conventional hotels, boutique hotels are typically characterized by their smaller, more intimate size, as well as their strong emphasis on artistic design. These unique establishments are known for their alluring services, Instagram-worthy aesthetics, and carefully curated decor, in addition to their prime locations.

  • The Ace Hotel New York is in the heart of the action and caters to the creative, the hungry, the young, and the adventurous with an affinity for aesthetic inspiration. In the daytime, the lobby is the perfect co-working space, with long tables lined with plentiful plug sockets and desk lamps. It’s located a few minutes via subway to Times Square.
  • Peering up at The Beekman’s iconic nine-story atrium, you can’t help but be dazzled by its towering majesty. Its maze of gold and brown balconies is lit up by a towering glass pyramid ceiling. Has a great rep for design excellence, but, with a phenomenal location in the Financial District, it’s also within very easy reach of Brooklyn Bridge.
  • The Kit Kemp-designed icon on SoHo’s Crosby Street simply oozes cool. From its exposed warehouse exterior to the lush sun-drenched courtyard for a spot of afternoon tea, there aren’t many more inviting places in the city. 
  • Boro Hotel. Staying in Manhattan is all well and good, but if you choose to rest your head on the other side of the East River, you’ll be rewarded with amazing views of The City skyline. Opt for Long Island City’s first design-centric hotel, Boro, which touts a minimalist, industrial-chic aesthetic with light-drenched rooms that boast floor-to-ceiling windows with jaw-dropping views. Once the sun goes down, head to the lobby bar where beer, wine, and craft cocktails abound until 11 p.m. 
  • In the boutique hotel William Vale you will enjoy their views with modern-luxe rooms, which feature floor-to-ceiling windows and open-air balconies looking over Manhattan’s iconic skyline. 

Hostels

If you’re traveling on a budget, consider hostels. Many hostels in NYC offer private rooms for groups, along with dorm-style accommodations for individual travelers.

  • HI NYC Hostel: If you’re traveling on a budget, consider staying at the HI NYC Hostel on the Upper West Side. It provides affordable dormitory-style rooms suitable for groups.
  • The Local NYC: The Local is a highly popular hostel in New York City, renowned for its welcoming atmosphere and amiable staff. For solo travelers, it offers ample communal spaces ideal for mingling and connecting with fellow guests. Additionally, the rooftop terrace provides stunning city views, perfect for relaxation. Should you require assistance with planning your next itinerary, the hostel offers a computer lounge with internet access.
  • American Dream Hostel: is a cherished family-owned establishment that has welcomed travelers to the heart of New York City for the past 15 years. Nestled conveniently within Manhattan’s historic Gramercy Park and Flatiron District, American Dream enjoys a prime location mere steps away from some of the city’s most iconic landmarks and attractions. Within easy reach, you’ll find the Empire State Building, the Flatiron Building, Madison Square Park, and Union Square. The neighborhood is also brimming with an array of dining options, bars, and specialty shops.
  • Chelsea International Hostel: is an independent establishment operating since 1992, and stands as one of the largest hostels in New York City. We are ideally situated in the vibrant neighborhood of Chelsea, right in the heart of Manhattan. Just a short 2-block stroll will lead you to the enchanting Highline Park, while a 15-minute walk through the illuminated streets will bring you to the iconic Times Square.

Extended Stay Hotels

For longer stays, extended stay hotels like Staybridge Suites or Element by Westin provide spacious rooms with kitchenettes and laundry facilities. The Staybridge Suites Times Square hotel is conveniently situated just two blocks away from the iconic Times Square and Broadway. It offers easy access on foot to other prominent landmarks such as the Empire State Building and the Jacob Javits Convention Center. The Element by Westin has rooms with a kitchen, spacious so you can work, and also accepts pets up to 18 kg. Travel agencies and websites often provide vacation packages that include both accommodations and activities, simplifying the planning process for groups.

Corporate Apartments

Corporate housing offers a unique advantage in that it provides a homely atmosphere, distinct from the typical hotel room, often at a more cost-effective price point. These accommodations come fully equipped with all the essentials you may require throughout your stay, affording you the convenience of residing in a fully furnished private apartment without the burden of long-term lease commitments. Corporate housing is an ideal choice for frequent travelers, offering flexibility for both short-term and long-term stays.

Conclusion on groups getaways to New York City

In conclusion, New York City is an ideal destination for group travel, offering a wide range of activities, dining options, and lodging choices to suit every preference and budget. Whether you’re exploring iconic landmarks, savoring diverse cuisines, or enjoying the city’s vibrant atmosphere, the Big Apple promises an unforgettable group adventure. So, gather your friends and family, plan your next group getaway, and immerse yourselves in the excitement of New York City.

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