We recently listened to Stassi and Lo French talk about how they prepared for a month-long trip in Europe and it got us thinking about taking a girls’ trip of our own. Because let’s be honest, it doesn’t matter where you go. When you’re with your besties, you’re going to have a good time. But when you throw in an epic destination, you just might have the best time of your life! Case in point, a girls’ trip to NYC. With so much to see and do, you and your BFFs can live out your favorite Sex and the City, Gossip Girl, or Breakfast at Tiffany’s moments IRL, all while spending quality time together.
They say you never truly know someone until you travel with them. But we have the perfect reason for you to take a trip with your best friend. That’s right, the next Dear Media IRL event is in NYC! So, now that you have your destination, it’s time to focus on the rest of your girls‘ weekend in NYC itinerary. Don’t worry, we’re going to make it super easy with this guide on how to make the most out of your girls’ trip to NYC, so let’s get into it!
The Ultimate Guide To An Epic Girls Trip to NYC
Speaking of besties, what kind of friends would we be here at Dear Media if we left you hanging? There’s A LOT to consider when planning a trip to the Big Apple how can you possibly narrow it down? While we’re pretty confident that DM IRL will be the highlight of your time in NYC, there are countless other things to see and do before or after the event.
Plus, if you’re coming in from out of town, you need a place to stay. So, what’s a gal to do? Well, first, don’t panic, and second, save or screenshot this post. If you want to level up in your friend group and become bestie of the year (and rock this epic tee), pay attention! We’re giving you all the info you need to plan the ultimate girl’s trip to NYC!
Girls’ Trip Activities: What To Do In NYC With Friends
Go sightseeing.
If this is your first trip to New York City, you might be itching to see some of its world-famous landmarks. We wouldn’t recommend spending the entire day trying to hit every iconic spot in the city. But if you find yourself near one, feel free to embrace the touristy experience! Walk the Brooklyn Bridge, make your way to the top of the Empire State Building or Rockefeller Center (Top of the Rock), see Times Square up close and personal, or take a moment to reflect at the 9/11 Memorial.
Sit down for brunch.
Brunch is a New York City tradition, and we highly recommend indulging. For a memorable meal and a fantastic start to your day, check out one of these top-rated brunch spots:
Shop ‘til you drop.
Shopping in NYC is truly a one-of-a-kind experience. From high-end boutiques to vintage thrift stores, there’s something for everyone. Big spenders will want to head to the Upper East Side, where Fifth and Madison Avenues are lined with luxury stores like Cartier, Chanel, Coach, Dolce & Gabbana Gucci, and Prada, as well as Bloomingdales, Bergdorf Goodman, and Saks Fifth Avenue (hence the name).
SoHo, on the other hand, is the premiere shopping destination. There are dozens of shopping opportunities from Prince Street to Broadway, where you’ll come across luxury brands, fast fashion favorites, and everything in between.
Walk The High Line and Explore Chelsea Market.
If you have some downtime before lunch or dinner, and you’re anywhere near the west side, make time for a walk on The High Line. This railway-turned-park is unlike any city park you’ve ever seen. For the perfect way to kill a few hours, start with some shopping at Hudson Yards, then walk The High Line to Chelsea Market. Chelsea Market is like your favorite farmer’s market on steroids.
Stroll through Central Park.
The hustle and bustle of NYC can be overwhelming, so what better way to take a breather than taking a stroll through Central Park. This iconic 843-acre park is even larger than you might imagine, featuring both familiar sights and hidden gems throughout. Promenade through the center of the park and snap pictures on Bow Bridge, climb atop Umpire Rock on the west side, gaze upon the Obelisk on the east side, or meander through the breathtaking North Woods, the park’s largest woodland.
See a Broadway show.
Whether you’re on a girls’ trip, couples’ vacation, or traveling solo (more deets on that in this episode of Girls Gotta Eat), a trip to New York City isn’t complete without seeing a Broadway show at Broadway Theatre. If you’re heading to NYC for Dear Media IRL on November 2, you can squeeze one in on Friday, November 1, or Sunday, November 3. Whether you’re hoping to see Wicked, The Lion King, Hamilton, or Moulin Rouge, make sure to grab your tickets ahead of time!
Check out the museums.
New York City is home to world-renowned museums like The Met and the Guggenheim Museum, as well as countless others worth touring. The Museum of Illusions is packed with Instagram-worthy exhibits, the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) is a contemporary art lover’s dream, and The Museum of Sex is perfect for celebrating womanhood with your girls. Madame Tussauds is pretty neat too. Head there and snap selfies with all of your favorite celebrities!
Experience NYC nightlife.
When it comes to NYC nightlife, your options are endless. From cocktails and appetizers on one of the many rooftop bars in the city to dancing the night away at a lively dance club, there is a venue for every vibe!
In NoMad, there’s 230 Fifth, the largest year-round indoor and outdoor bar and event space in NYC. If you’re into live music, check out Cafe Wha! Denitia hits the stage on Sunday, November 3 at 7:00! And for an all-out rave, head to Avant Gardner and dance your ass off to killer mixes courtesy of some of the most famous DJs.
Hotel Recommendations: Where To Stay In NYC With Girl Friends
The Carlyle, A Rosewood Hotel
Now’s your chance to live like the rich and famous, even if only for a few nights. The Carlyle in Upper Manhattan is an iconic, opulent 5-star hotel that has catered to big names like Elizabeth Taylor, Princess Diana, Tom Cruise, Madonna, Calvin Klein, and Lady Gaga. From the minute you arrive, you’ll understand why this luxury hotel in Manhattan’s Upper East Side is consistently recognized as one of the best in the city, and perhaps even the country.
The Plaza
Perfectly situated on Fifth Avenue, The Plaza is another iconic 5-star hotel. Its celebrated for its elegance, luxurious accommodations, and impeccable service. Nestled in Upper Manhattan, this hotel may look familiar, especially if you’ve seen The Great Gatsby or American Hustle. It’s no surprise, then, that staying at The Plaza will make you feel like an A-list celebrity, even if you opt not to indulge in a treatment at the Guerlain Spa.
Lotte New York Palace, a.k.a The Palace
Lotte New York Palace, more commonly referred to as The Palace, was the very first luxury hotel in Manhattan, yet it remains a top choice among guests hoping for true luxury and comfort during their stay in the Big Apple. Gossip Girl fans will recognize The Palace as Serena Van Der Woodsen’s temporary home. And if it’s good enough for Serena, it’s beyond perfect for us!
NoMo SoHo
For something a little more affordable, consider staying at NoMo SoHo. Located in lower Manhattan, NoMo SoHo is a 4-star luxury boutique hotel that perfectly represents what SoHo is all about; both nostalgic and modern. Naturally, it’s been recognized as one of the more Instagrammable hotels in NYC, mostly because of the lush greenery archway that greets you as you enter the lobby.
Untitled at 3 Freeman Alley
Last, but certainly not least, is our pick for the most ‘aesthetic’ hotel. Located on the lower East Side, Untitled at 3 Freeman Alley is urban, chic, and art-inspired. The cobblestone-paved alley surrounded by towering walls covered with graffiti just barely clue you in to the vibe that defines this modern New York City hotel.
Dear Media IRL in New York City
Are you ready to catch up with your favorite Dear Media hosts at the ultimate live experience in New York City? Dear Media IRL is back, and this time we’re heading to the Empire City!
Mark your calendars because come November 2, 2024, you and your best girlfriends are gonna want to slip on your It Sure Is A Beautiful Day Sweatshirts and head to Center 415 in midtown Manhattan! Guests and podcast hosts alike will enjoy fun and fare, with panels taking place in the morning and afternoon. Grab your ticket now and be sure to take advantage of the ticket and hotel package to save a chunk of change on your girls’ trip.
Get more info on Dear Media IRL here.
NYC is the ultimate destination for a memorable getaway with your best friends.
Attending Dear Media IRL is reason enough to plan a trip to New York City. But naturally, there’s so much more to see and do while you’re there. If a girls’ trip is long overdue, consider this your cue to start putting those plans into action!
Be sure to check out these awesome podcast episodes for more tips, tricks, and super helpful info on traveling: Him & Her: Travel Hacks and Travel Bugs, Tips and Tricks for Travel, Note to Self: Travel Routine For The Easiest Travel Day Ever: Prep, Packing & Airport Musts, and Girls Gotta Eat: Let’s Talk About Traveling.
We truly believe that taking a trip together is a great way to strengthen friendships. But if you’re not quite there yet, no worries! Check out our post on how to make female friends for some practical tips on finding your new bestie. And if you find yourself asking “why are female friendships important?” Well, we have a post on that too! Oh, and be sure to listen to the Transform How to Build Your Best Friendships.