Arts & Culture

Unusual & Non-Touristy Things to Do in NYC

July 01 2025 | Arts & Culture

New York City in summer offers more than just crowded landmarks and long lines. It’s a playground of hidden treasures and quirky adventures. If you've seen the Empire State Building and walked Central Park already, this guide will introduce you...

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10 Can’t-Miss June 2025 Events in New York City

June 01 2025 | Arts & Culture

As spring becomes summer, New York City transforms into an outdoor playground where every sidewalk becomes a stage and every park pulses with possibility. June brings the perfect weather, too: warm, sun-drenched days with gentle breezes that make strolling through...

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Best Spots to Watch July 4th Fireworks in NYC

June 01 2025 | Arts & Culture

There's something magical about watching fireworks burst across a city skyline, and nowhere in the world stages a more iconic Independence Day celebration than New York City. The city's balmy summer weather draws millions for the annual Macy's 4th of...

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Where to Watch Outdoor Cinema in New York City

May 01 2025 | Arts & Culture

There's always something magical about watching a movie under the stars, especially in New York. As the summer months bring calm evenings to the city, the Big Apple transforms into an outdoor moviegoers’ paradise — creating the perfect backdrop for...

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Why April Is the Best Time to Visit NYC

April 01 2025 | Arts & Culture

There's a sweet spot in New York City's calendar; one when the coldest days of winter have retreated, summer tourists haven't yet descended, and the city awakens with an energy that's both electric and intimate. That magical moment? April in...

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See You At Japan Fes 2025

April 01 2025 | Arts & Culture

As New York City welcomes the vibrant spring season, one of the area’s most treasured cultural celebrations is set to transform the city once again. Japan Fes 2025 — the world's largest Japanese food festival — returns with its signature...

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The Ultimate NYC Broadway Guide 2025

March 01 2025 | Arts & Culture

New York City and Broadway go hand in hand, offering a world of dazzling performances where stories come to life on stage. Whether you're a seasoned theater enthusiast or experiencing NYC Broadway for the first time, 2025 is set to...

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Experience the 2025 New York City St. Patrick's Day Parade

February 01 2025 | Arts & Culture

St. Patrick’s Day in NYC is shaping up to be a celebration for the ages with the long-awaited return of the iconic St. Patrick’s Day Parade! From lively parties to live music and classic Irish food, the city will be...

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15 Best NYC Photo Spots for Your Instagram Feed

February 01 2025 | Arts & Culture

New York City is a photographer’s dream, offering a mix of iconic landmarks, hidden gems, and breathtaking skyline views. Whether you're an avid Instagrammer or just looking for the perfect vacation snapshots, NYC has no shortage of stunning backdrops. And...

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Your Guide to NYC’s Indoor Adventures

January 01 2025 | Arts & Culture

New York City offers an endless array of experiences. Whether you're visiting during a frosty winter or a rainy spring, NYC’s indoor attractions are just as compelling as its outdoor adventures. Located on the Upper West Side, Hotel Beacon NYC...

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New York City’s Best Christmas Activities for 2024

December 01 2024 | Arts & Culture

New York City is truly the ultimate holiday destination, where festive magic comes alive at every corner. From dazzling light displays and iconic ice skating rinks to world-class holiday shows, the city offers a one-of-a-kind Christmas experience. Celebrate the season...

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Must-See Broadway Shows This Holiday Season

December 01 2024 | Arts & Culture

New York City transforms into a magical wonderland at Christmas; dazzling lights, iconic holiday markets, ice skating at Rockefeller Center, festive Broadway shows, and timeless traditions captivate every visitor. This time of year, the theaters of the Great White Way...

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Netflix on a tv screen in a living room with feet on the coffee table

A Television Lovers’ Guide to New York

July 08 2024 | Arts & Culture

New York has been the backdrop for some of the world’s most iconic TV shows. If you’re an avid television lover, a unique way to see the city is by exploring all the filming locations of your favorite shows. But...

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Black and white image of two people walking in front of a garage door with New York graffitied on the front

Loft Law Exhibition: The Last of New York’s Artists’ Lofts

June 10 2024 | Arts & Culture

Art and New York go hand in hand, and artists have flocked to the city from all over the world for centuries. From the world-famous pieces in the many NYC galleries to the intricate street art and murals, you can...

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Tracing the Steps of New York’s Most Famous Authors

June 03 2024 | Arts & Culture

New York has been home to some of the world’s most famous writers, and if you’re an avid reader there are plenty of spots in the city to retrace the steps of some of your favorite authors. If you’re looking...

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Black and white photo of a jazz musician with a woman

New York After Dark - Exploring New York’s Nightlife

May 13 2024 | Arts & Culture

As you would expect from the City That Never Sleeps, New York’s nightlife scene is some of the best in the world. As the sun sets on New York, the city comes alive - whether it’s nightclubs, bars, concerts, or...

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Building covered in graffiti with New York skyline in the background

Where to Find New York's Best Street Art

April 22 2024 | Arts & Culture

Like in any major city, you don’t have to go far to find street art in New York. You can find street art almost anywhere in the Big Apple, whether it's colorful murals or impressive graffiti tags - but for...

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Photo of an empty metro station in New York City

Is New York Haunted?

April 15 2024 | Arts & Culture

New York is the third oldest city in the USA and perhaps the US city with the most colorful history. The city is littered with historic landmarks, hidden alleyways, and forgotten apartments - but is the city haunted? Ghost stories...

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Crowd of people at an outdoor concert in front of New York's Skyscrapers

The Return of New York Concerts

April 08 2024 | Arts & Culture

As the weather warms up after the winter months, New York can be enjoyed alfresco again - whether it's meals out, picnics in the park, or the return of outdoor performances, there are endless ways to enjoy spring in the...

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Bridge in Central Park over a river. Greenery in the background with a large cherry blossom tree in front. There are blue skies and the sun is shining.

Best Springtime Walks to Enjoy in New York City

March 25 2024 | Arts & Culture

Spring is finally here in the city and it’s the best time to get out and about. Between the cold winter and the hot summer, New York thrives in Spring when the weather is “just right”. Despite being one of...

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Woman buys fresh produce from outdoor market vendor in the sun

Outdoor Markets: Make the Most of the Spring Weather

March 18 2024 | Arts & Culture

Spring is here - which means New York’s outdoor markets are finally reopening after a long winter. The Big Apple is home to plenty of outdoor markets, selling everything from fresh produce to artisanal goods. If you enjoy an outdoor...

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Outdoor Markets: Make the Most of the Spring Weather

March 18 2024 | Arts & Culture

Spring is here - which means New York’s outdoor markets are finally reopening after a long winter. The Big Apple is home to plenty of outdoor markets, selling everything from fresh produce to artisanal goods. If you enjoy an outdoor...

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Girl stands behind metal barrier watching a passing parade

Festival and Parade Season is Here

March 04 2024 | Arts & Culture

Spring is here, the sun is back in New York (finally!), and festival and parade season has begun. Whether it’s Easter, St Paddy’s, or Cinco de Mayo - there are plenty of parades and festivals taking place over the next...

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Family sit together watching an outdoor performance at night

Discover the Best Events in New York City this August

July 31 2023 | Arts & Culture

As we move into August, summer in New York reaches its peak, and the city transforms into a vibrant playground for children and adults alike. Whether you’re looking for live music, festivals, or a simple picnic in the park, New...

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Woman takes selfie with New York's Times Square behind her

An Insider’s Guide to TikTok Filming Locations in New York City

May 15 2023 | Arts & Culture

If you’re into content creation, chances are you already have a TikTok account – and you spend hours every week on the app, creating the perfect videos in the hope of going viral. Whether you create travel content, food content,...

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Birds eye shot of Governors Island in New York City

Governors Island Reopening: Making the Most of a Day on the Island

April 24 2023 | Arts & Culture

Located just off the southern tip of Manhattan, Governors Island is an often-overlooked oasis, hiding in plain sight in the heart of the city. Boasting green lawns, a large manmade hillside, and some of the best views available of the...

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The empire state building, with the next york skyline behind it during a misty sunrise/sunset

Happy 94th Birthday to the Empire State Building

April 03 2023 | Arts & Culture

When you think of New York skyscrapers, the Empire State Building is usually the first that comes to mind – and this year, the famous building will turn 94. The Empire State Building has been a well-loved part of the...

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Yankees Stadium in New York with New York skyline in the background at night.

A Local’s Guide to Your First Yankees Game

March 13 2023 | Arts & Culture

It’s the start of the season, and even if you’re not a baseball fan, seeing a Yankees Game is a rite of passage for New Yorkers. If you’re in New York over the coming months, there are plenty of games...

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Couple hold hands as they ice skate on open air iceskating rink with buildings in the background and lights hung above.

New York City: A Guide to an Alternative Valentine’s Date

January 16 2023 | Arts & Culture

Valentine’s Day, for some, is just another Hallmark Holiday, and for others, it is the most romantic day of the year. However you feel about it - if you’re in a relationship, it’s likely you’ll celebrate it whether you love...

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Skeleton of dinosaur in a museum showing the head, neck and ribs

I’ll Be There for You: Friends Guide to NYC

November 28 2022 | Arts & Culture

What is the most iconic TV show to have come out of New York? For many people it’s Friends. The sitcom was filmed over 10 years, nominated for 62 Primetime Emmy Awards, and has been translated into 104 languages -...

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View of one of New York's Chinatowns, large crowd of people stand between the buildings on either side of the street with a tall skyscraper in the background, Chinese lanterns and traditional decor hangs between the buildings

Which is the Best Chinatown to Visit in New York City

October 10 2022 | Arts & Culture

When visiting a new city many people suggest visiting the local Chinatown. Offering amazing food, great drinks, and an insight into Chinese American culture, the Chinese Quarter is a great place to get lost for the afternoon. Most major cities...

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Outdoor concert in new york, crowd in focus dancing and singing, with the new york skyline out of focus in the background

Kick off the Start of Fall with Free Concerts in New York this September

August 08 2022 | Arts & Culture

Every summer New Yorkers and tourists alike are welcomed to enjoy a range of different shows and concerts across the city – completely for free. As the summer comes to an end and the cooler nights roll in, one of...

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Brooklyn Bridge at Sunset in New York City, there is noone on the bridge and the skyline is visible on both sides of the bridge

Where to Catch the Best Summer Sunsets in New York City

July 18 2022 | Arts & Culture

Summer sunsets are often the best ones we see all year – especially in New York City. Apart from being beautiful, it’s been suggested that watching the sunset (and sunrise) can help you feel more refreshed and get a better...

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Looking up at two people on a fairground ride at Luna Park in Coney Island.

Luna Park – A Perfect NYC Summer Day Out

June 20 2022 | Arts & Culture

Noted as NYC’s most iconic location for fun, Luna Park on Coney Island is not to be missed if you visit New York in the summertime. Luna Park was opened in 2010 on the site of Astroland which operated from...

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group of old school roller skaters with knee high rainbow socks

What to do in May on New York’s Upper West Side

April 18 2022 | Arts & Culture

As the weather gets a little warmer, New York City starts to defrost after the long, cold winter that grips the city. Now with spring here, outside activities can be enjoyed again – and there is something for everyone to...

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stable street skybridge at the old New York Hospital. bridge links two buildings, traditional fire escapes are on the buildings.

Hidden Gem Photography Locations for Trigger Happy Travellers in the Big Apple

April 11 2022 | Arts & Culture

They say Central Park and New York City are two of the most filmed and photographed locations in the whole world – but why is it that everyone always comes home with the same photos? Like in any city, the...

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sepia photo of unknown person playing sax in subway station at 42 st and grand central

Jazz in New York, A Short History

March 28 2022 | Arts & Culture

Jazz originated in New Orleans, Louisiana in the late 19th and early 20th century, with popularity growing quickly throughout the state and the rest of the country. By the 1920’s the Jazz Age had well and truly taken hold and...

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two children looking for easter eggs on easter egg hunt in prak

Celebrating Easter with Kids in New York City 2022

March 21 2022 | Arts & Culture

Easter isn’t celebrated as widely as the other main holidays are in New York, however if you’re looking for something to do over the Easter weekend there is still plenty to find – especially if you’re travelling as a family....

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Hayden Planetarium -a six-story glass cube encasing an 87 ft sphere that appears to float

Kid-Friendly Museums on the Upper West Side

November 15 2021 | Arts & Culture

If it’s your first time in New York City, knowing what to see and what to skip can be overwhelming – especially if you have your family in tow. In the winter months when the weather is unpredictable, finding indoor...

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Queensboro Bridge lit up as sun comes up, NYC skyline in the background.

New York City: A Holiday Movie Tour

November 08 2021 | Arts & Culture

What are the Holidays without relaxing evenings in front of fire, with a hot cocoa and rewatching your favorite festive movies? New York City has been the film set and backdrop of some of the best Christmas movies over the...

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Upcoming Shows at Beacon Theatre in 2020

January 16 2020 | Arts & Culture

Soul jam ballads, jam band tunes from Widespread Panic, legends like Ringo Starr, Styx and great stand-up from Ali Wong and Jerry Seinfeld can be expected at the Beacon Theatre for the first half of 2020. Of course we’re partial,...

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Delight in New York City’s Diverse Artforms

December 16 2019 | Arts & Culture

No other city in the world does the arts quite like New York City. Immerse yourself in the world of classical ballet, theatre, jazz, and opera with our partners. Lincoln Center Theatre The Lincoln Theatre is hailed for its...

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Bring the Kids to these Glimmering Light Displays in NYC

December 02 2019 | Arts & Culture

There is no place that does the holidays like New York City. Light displays, holiday markets, ice skating rinks and piping hot cocoa add to the feeling of being in a Christmas movie. If you want to take the kiddos...

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Celebrating the 4th of July Outdoors in NYC

June 24 2019 | Arts & Culture

The country’s birthday is right around the corner and there’s no better place to celebrate than New York City. The second president of the United States, John Adams, predicted exactly how the event would be celebrated when he said 242...

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All About Midsummer Night Swing at the Lincoln Center

June 11 2019 | Arts & Culture

There’s no place like New York in the summertime. The city that never sleeps takes advantage of the sunny season with lots of activity, outdoor concerts and festivals. Looking for a memorable way to spend the evening? The Lincoln Center’s...

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Portugal in NYC: All Things Portuguese in NYC

May 17 2019 | Arts & Culture

Seeking the laid-back feel of Portugal in New York City? Here’s a guide to Portuguese food, shopping and culture in Manhattan, all just a short walk or subway ride from Hotel Beacon. Food For meticulous petiscos to traditional bacalhau, the...

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Surprising Museums You'll Only Find in New York City

February 19 2019 | Arts & Culture

You’ve visited all the big-name museums in New York, with paintings from Europe and ancient Chinese textiles. You’ve browsed modern art installations at the MoMA and took in the power of the plains at the American Museum of Natural History....

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Enjoy Presidents’ Day Weekend in NYC

January 23 2019 | Arts & Culture

Presidents’ Day is a favorite in New York City, which is no stranger to U.S. history. The February holiday also marks the mid-winter recess for kids, which is a great opportunity to get out and get active. Soak up history...

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The Best Interactive Museums for Kids in Manhattan

January 15 2019 | Arts & Culture

The short, cold days of winter can leave adults and kids feeling a bit lethargic. After all, it’s hard to get your blood pumping when you’re cooped up indoors all day. Want to get moving? Check out these interactive museums,...

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Argentina in New York City: Cuisine, Culture and Tango

December 26 2018 | Arts & Culture

From empanadas to tango, Argentina is part of the life blood of the big apple; one of many cultures that gives the city its unique flavor and style. Find out how to get your dose of Argentine flavor and spirit...

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Brazil in New York City: All Things Brazilian in NYC

November 21 2018 | Arts & Culture

Looking for the flavor and optimism of Brazil while in New York City? Com certeza! Here’s a guide to Brazilian food, culture, and nightlife in Manhattan, all a quick a subway ride from Hotel Beacon. Food There’s a Little Italy,...

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Hello Kitty balloon in the macy's day parade

Here's How to Get the Best Views of the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade

November 14 2018 | Arts & Culture

Every Thanksgiving, upwards of 3.5 million hit the streets of New York City to watch the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, an annual holiday event since 1924. Floats, crowds, and performances all make for a bigger-than-life spectacle that you’ll want to...

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Colombia in New York City: Your Guide to All Things Colombian in NYC

October 26 2018 | Arts & Culture

Colombian culture isn’t as obvious as other Latino cultures in Manhattan, but cumbia rhythms in dance clubs, guava-stuffed empanadas and a vibrant Colombian community in Queens give New Yorkers a little taste of the South American country. Is your knowledge...

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Iconic New York Experiences to Cross Off Your Bucket List

October 25 2018 | Arts & Culture

The city of New York appears in so many American movies, that most visitors have a clear idea of what it’s like before even setting foot in the iconic metropolis. The truth is, most of their conceptions aren’t far off....

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Korea in New York City: Your Guide to All Things Korean in NYC

October 18 2018 | Arts & Culture

Korean culture doesn’t escape New York City. You’ve heard of Chinatown, but there’s also a vibrant Koreatown located right near the Empire State Building. Doing some Seoul searching? Look no further – here’s your guide to all things Korean in...

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Ireland in New York City: Your Guide to All Things Irish in NYC

October 08 2018 | Arts & Culture

Looking for a piece of Ireland in New York City? There’s more to the Emerald Isle than just pubs (though there’s plenty of those too). Explore Ireland’s rich history and culture, which has intertwined with New York City since the...

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Image of exhibit inside the Museum of Modern Art.

Check Out These Fall 2018 NYC Museum Exhibitions

September 20 2018 | Arts & Culture

School is back in session, and that means fall is right around the corner. Here in the Upper West Side, that means a fresh influx of brisk air, the leaves changing color in Central Park, and new exhibits to discover...

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Sweden in New York City: Your Guide to All Things Swedish in NYC

September 18 2018 | Arts & Culture

If you’re Swedish, you’ve recently visited Sweden, or you just like Swedish meatballs, you won’t have trouble finding a little piece of the Scandinavian country in the US. Check out where to scope out Swedish culture, goods, sweets and meals...

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Everything You Need to Know about Newark Liberty International Airport

September 06 2018 | Arts & Culture

Don't be fooled — just because Newark Liberty International Airport is in New Jersey doesn't mean it's far from NYC. In fact, a lot of New York-bound travelers fly there, and make the quick commute to the city. Here's a...

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6 Quintessential Things To Do in New York This Summer

August 20 2018 | Arts & Culture

As the “Capital of the World,” New York City is a premier destination any day of the year. There’s always something new to see or do here. But there are some things in New York City that are best experienced...

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Australia in New York City: Your Guide to All Things Australian in NYC

August 15 2018 | Arts & Culture

There’s no better place for that international feel than New York City. Looking for a change of scene or a taste of home? Check out all things Australian on this side of the equator with Australian coffee shops, Aboriginal art...

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The History of the Beacon Theatre

August 10 2018 | Arts & Culture

The Hotel Beacon and the Beacon Theatre were built in tandem as an eight-million dollar venture in the late 1920s. Adorned with a fully-functioning overhead airway beacon during the early days of flight, both the hotel and theatre were met...

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Everything You Need to Know About LaGuardia Airport

August 10 2018 | Arts & Culture

We've discussed JFK, but what about LaGuardia Airport? While this smaller hub — located on the northern tip of Queens — isn't quite as busy or well-known as JFK, it is closer to Hotel Beacon, and more tailored to domestic...

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Your Intro to All Things Japanese in NYC

July 31 2018 | Arts & Culture

While New York City doesn’t technically have one big “Japantown,” you’ll find plenty of Japanese culture and cuisine here. More than 30,000 Japanese nationals live in the five boroughs, so you’ll find the beauty of Japanese culture spread all throughout...

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Where To Swim in NYC This Summer

July 30 2018 | Arts & Culture

Summer is at its peak in the city, with temperatures shooting through the roof. (Hello, real-feel of 100 degrees!) Keep cool with a day trip to one of NYC's best swimming pools. Asphalt Green For a small fee of $35,...

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Everything You Need to Know About JFK Airport

July 18 2018 | Arts & Culture

You’ve booked your room at Hotel Beacon, you’ve packed your bags, and you’ve purchased a flight to NYC. All that’s left is landing at JFK Airport and making your way to the Big Apple. Here’s everything you need to know about...

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The Hotel Beacon Guide to Deciphering the NYC Subway System

July 05 2018 | Arts & Culture

The New York City subway system is enormous, one of the oldest and largest public transportation systems in the world with approximately 5.7 million riders every weekday. If it’s your first time visiting, that can be intimidating. But the NYC...

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Classic Movies Shot on the Upper West Side

July 03 2018 | Arts & Culture

Sure, Hollywood has the walk of fame, but in the Upper West Side, you can walk in the footsteps of fame. New York City is full of film history, and the Upper West Side is no exception, as many beloved...

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Check Out These Museums Just Blocks from Hotel Beacon

June 14 2018 | Arts & Culture

This spring and summer are great times to visit New York City and get out on the town. The beautiful weather makes strolling the streets of Manhattan an experience like no other. But the even better thing about New York...

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Upcoming Spring 2018 Events at Beacon Theatre

May 03 2018 | Arts & Culture

At Hotel Beacon, to say that entertainment is within walking distance is an understatement. That’s because our building is attached to the aptly named Beacon Theatre, a historic, 2,894-seat, three-tiered theatre designed by Chicago architect Walter W. Ahlschlager. It’s nearly...

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The Flight History of Hotel Beacon

March 30 2018 | Arts & Culture

All things considered, planes haven’t been around that long — just 115 years. Orville Wright and his brother, Wilbur, invented the airplane in 1903 and set off an absolutely unprecedented age of innovation. To understand just how fast the world changed...

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Upcoming Spring 2018 Events at Lincoln Center

March 23 2018 | Arts & Culture

Just one mile south of Hotel Beacon, Lincoln Center is alive with New York City’s creative spirit. It’s just a 15-minute walk or 5-minute drive, so if you’re staying with us on the Upper West Side, Lincoln Center is easily...

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