A Guide for Visiting Families: What to See, Where to Eat and the Best NYU Hotels for Your Alumni and Families Weekend Stay

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Posted on
October 24, 2023
Written by
Luxurious Getaways Co.
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NYU has become the largest private university in the United States by enrollment and has a rich history dating back to 1832. Situated in the heart of New York City, NYU is sandwiched between Washington Square and Greenwich Village which have been hubs of cultural life in New York City since the early 19th century. Whether you are a prospective student or a proud parent, visiting NYU always makes for an exceptional trip whether for Family Weekend, Graduation, or just a special visit. Determining the right hotel in a city full of options is a key part of making for an unforgettable experience to maximize the annual NYU Alumni and Families Weekend or graduation.

Not only does this guide cover recommendations for accommodation near the NYU campus, but hits on the top local attractions, top rated dining options, and the local landmarks and attractions in the Big Apple.

Top Accommodation Options near NYU

At Luxurious Getaways Co., we specialize in organizing bespoke travel arrangements for your trip to NYU at no additional cost to you. When you book your stay through us, you can enjoy the comfort and luxury of New York’s top hotels while also receiving VIP treatment and a range of exclusive benefits at the following hotels:

  1. W NEW YORK - UNION SQUARE

Located just a short walk or drive from the center of NYU, The W New York - Union Square Hotel offers a memorable stay with the following Virtuoso exclusive benefits:

  • Complimentary daily breakfast for two people
  • Hotel credit valued at $100
  • Early check-in/late check-out**
  • Complimentary room upgrade**
  • Local welcome amenity and note
  1. The Greenwich Hotel

Situated in one of the most desirable neighborhoods, the prestigious Greenwich Hotel offers unmatched hospitality and convenience, along with some phenomenal benefits through our exclusive partnership with Virtuoso:

  • Complimentary daily breakfast for two people
  • Hotel credit valued at $100
  • Early check-in/late check-out**
  • Complimentary room upgrade**
  • Local welcome amenity and note
  1. Conrad New York Downtown

Experience panoramic views of the Hudson River from the Conrad located in downtown NYC. You’ll enjoy the following exclusive benefits when you choose the Conrad New York, a Hilton Impresario hotel:

  • Book 3 nights, get 4th free (Valid through March 26, 2024)
  • Daily full breakfast for two people in the hotel restaurant or in-room
  • Double Hilton Points
  • Room upgrades*
  • Early check-in and late check-out*
  • Welcome note and welcome amenity
  1. Four Seasons Hotel New York Downtown

The Four Seasons is among the most popular hotels for NYU graduation. After all, there's no better choice than staying at one of the 130+ global Four Seasons Preferred properties. When you use Luxurious Getaways Co. to book your stay at one of our Four Seasons Preferred Partner hotels, you can enjoy the following exclusive perks:

  • Daily full breakfast for two people in the hotel restaurant or in-room (A special perk to Four Seasons Preferred and not American Express)
  • Hotel/Resort credit for experiences such as spa, dining, and recreation ($100 for standard rooms/$200 for suites)
  • Room upgrades*
  • Early check-in and late check-out*
  • Welcome note and welcome amenity
  1. Crosby Street Hotel

With a storied history, you’ll enjoy the following exclusive benefits when you choose the Crosby Street luxurious hotel:

  • Daily full breakfast for two people in the hotel restaurant or in-room 
  • Hotel/Resort credit for experiences such as spa, dining, and recreation ($100 for standard rooms/$200 for suites)
  • Room upgrades*
  • Early check-in and late check-out* 
  • Welcome note and welcome amenity
  1. The Ritz-Carlton New York, NoMad

Just a short ride from the NYU campus, The Ritz-Carlton New York, NoMad offers the perfect escape to one of Manhattan's trendiest luxury hotels, right by Madison Square Park. Say goodbye to the dining hall and treat your student to a delightful experience at the on-site restaurant, The Bazaar by José Andrés.

Unlock the full potential of this exceptional stay through our exclusive perks with Virtuoso:

  • Guaranteed upgrade at time of booking
  • Daily breakfast for up to two guests per bedroom
  • $100 USD  Hotel credit
  • Early Check-In / Late Check-Out
  1. The Dominick

A posh highrise hotel situated in Soho, you’ll enjoy the following exclusive benefits when you choose the Crosby Street luxurious hotel:

  • Daily full breakfast for two people in the hotel restaurant or in-room 
  • Hotel/Resort credit for experiences such as spa, dining, and recreation ($100 for standard rooms/$200 for suites)
  • Room upgrades*
  • Early check-in and late check-out* 
  • Welcome note and welcome amenity
  1. The Beekman, A Thompson Hotel

Located in the epicenter of Lower Manhattan, old world glamor meets modern luxury at The Beekman, you’ll enjoy the following Hyatt Prive exclusive benefits:

  • Daily full breakfast for two people in the hotel restaurant or in-room 
  • Hotel/Resort credit for experiences such as spa, dining, and recreation ($100 per stay)
  • Room upgrades confirmed at time of booking (Exclusive Hyatt Prive benefit)
  • Early check-in and late check-out* 
  • Welcome note and welcome amenity

*Terms & Conditions apply

**Perks and upgrades may be subject to availability

Image: Little Island, New York City, Night

Local Attractions

With no shortage of restaurants & attractions, New York offers something for everyone. If you’re a parent wondering what to do during Family Weekend, know that New York City offers plenty to see and do outside of visiting your child’s school. The city is filled with attractions for parents and families alike.

  1. Washington Square Park: One of the best known of New York City's public parks, it is an icon as well as a meeting place and center for cultural activity. Be sure to take a photo of the Washington Square Arch at the northern gateway to the park.
  2. Grey Art Gallery: For art enthusiasts, a visit to the Grey Art Museum  is a must stop. The Grey distinguishes itself by emphasizing art's historical, cultural, and social contexts, with experimentation and interpretation as integral parts of programmatic planning. 
  3. Merchant's House Museum: The Merchant's House Museum, known formerly as the Old Merchant's House and as the Seabury Tredwell House, is the only nineteenth-century family home in New York City preserved intact—both inside and out. Read more about the history here.
  4. Little Island: Little Island is a new public park, located in Hudson River Park, where all New Yorkers and visitors can experience nature and art in a unique urban oasis on the Hudson River.

College Landmarks

NYU’s campus is rich in history and architectural beauty. Don't miss these iconic landmarks:

  1. Washington Square Arch: At the heart of the campus, Washington Square Park offers a central gathering place for families, students, professors, and visitors alike. The famous and picturesque Washington Square Arch is a must see.
  2. Bobst Library: with nearly 3,000 seats, is the largest and most comprehensive facility in NYU’s more than 5.8 million–volume, eight-library system
  3. Washington Mews:  is a quaint cobblestone block whose buildings are owned by the university and offer historical significance

Dining Options near NYU

New York is a culinary hotspot and destination and the culinary scene near NYU is no exception. With so many varieties of dishes and cuisines, you will have no shortage of options.

Student Favorites: Living in a city always on the move, NYU students have plenty of quick food options and here are some NYU Student Favorites: Mamoun's Falafel for delicious falafel, Pommes Frites for a NYU favorite french fries, and All'Antico Vinaio for the best Italian sandwiches straight from Florence.

Must-Visit Restaurants: Explore restaurants like John’s Of Bleeker for their famous coal fired New York pizza, Carbone for some delicious Italian food, and Minetta Tavern for an unbelievable experience.

Foodie Experiences: From extremely popular pizza tours to neighborhood specific food tours taking you to all the popular spots, New York City is a foodie destination. Reach out to booking@luxuioursgetawaysco.com for any recommendations on a perfect itinerary for your trip.

Events around Family Weekend

During Family Weekend, NYU organizes a variety of special events and gatherings that provide a deeper insight into campus life. Ranging from meet and greets with the faculty to special lectures, don’t miss out on a guided tour of the campus. Be sure to check the official Family Weekend schedule to make the most of your visit.

Image: Grand Central Terminal, New York City

Travel Tips

Getting Around

Getting To NYU is easy given the campus is in the heart of New York City and you have several options for getting around:

By Air: Getting to NYU by air is quick and easy, with the 3 airport options being Newark Liberty (EWR), John F Kennedy (JFK), and Laguardia (LGA) ranging from 30-60 minutes away by car or public transportation. Speak to our advisor by calling (833) 217-7427 who will be able to advise with the best airport and routing for your trip. 

By Public Transportation: New York City boasts one of the most connected and easy to understand public transportation systems, which includes trains, buses, and the subway. New York city recently rolled out Contactless Pay, allowing you to tap and go for the Subway. Learn more about it here

By Car: Given the limited parking in New York City, we recommend you take an Uber, Lyft, Revel, or a NYC Taxi to make your trip as stress free as possible. 

Other Things to Note

Weather Considerations: Be sure to look into the weather forecast for New York City as weather conditions can change somewhat quickly. Be sure to pack accordingly and don’t worry if you forget something as New York offers some of the best shopping in the world! 

Travel Times: Depending on the method of travel and time of day, travel times can vary. Be sure to research directions beforehand and sometimes walking and the subway can be your fastest predictable method of transportation. 

Visiting a cherished friend or a loved family member at NYU provides the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in all that New York has to offer, from its rich history to vibrant culture. Ensure that you secure accommodations at a top-notch hotel near NYU to fully experience the nearby attractions. At Luxurious Getaways Co., our dedicated team is always at your service, committed to enhancing your journey. As a New York City-based travel team, we are dedicated to ensuring that you make the most of your time during your visit for NYU Alumni and Families Weekend or NYU Graduation.

Do you have more questions? Check our FAQs to get them answered. Don’t see what you are looking for, email us at booking@luxuriousgetawaysco.com

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