Browse New York's Best
Budget Travel Blog

This year, the celebration promises to be bigger and better than ever, as millions pour into the city across the month of June for WorldPride 2019. At the Hotel Pennsylvania, we’re thrilled to welcome so many revelers to NYC. Our Midtown location makes Hotel Pennsylvania the ideal home base for visitors who want to experience all Pride has to offer: more than fifty official events—art exhibitions, musical performances, theatrical productions, lectures, parties, and much more—across the month, plus all the outstanding nightlife that makes NYC a premier destination for LGBTQ travelers year-round. For more information on all the fantastic WorldPride events, check out the official WorldPride website here.

Since then, Shakespeare in the Park has become perhaps the most renowned outdoor summer Shakespeare series in the world, boasting performances by such theater and film icons as Meryl Streep, Kevin Kline, Denzel Washington, Patrick Stewart, Philip Seymour Hoffman, Anne Hathaway, Al Pacino, John Lithgow, and many more. This summer, the company will present Shakespeare’s beloved comedy Much Ado About Nothing (May 21 – June 23) and the tragedy Coriolanus, an “epic of democracy and demagoguery” that chronicles the rise and fall of “a general voted into power by a populace hungry for change.” The Delacorte Theater, which can seat an audience of 1800, is an open-air venue located in Central Park. Tickets are free and are distributed on a first come, first served basis at the Delacorte Theater at noon on the day of each performance.

Address: Central Park, NYC. Guests should enter at 81st St & Central Park West or at 79th St & 5th Ave.

AMNH’s new exhibit, T. rex: The Ultimate Predator, invites you to discover the incredible story of the world’s most famous theropod. Although a 40-foot long model of this well-known dinosaur serves as the exhibit’s focal point, T. rexes are not the only tyrannosaur you’ll be learning about.

Through life-sized replicas, fossils, infographics, and interactive activities, visitors will uncover the story of the entire tyrannosaur family, including the T. rex’s much tinier ancestors. You may not believe it, but even T. rex was once a fluffy, little hatchling.

Visitors 12 and over will even have exclusive access to a one-of-a-kind virtual reality experience, making this exhibit truly immersive! Located in the Upper West Side just two and a half miles from Hotel Penn, T. rex: The Ultimate Predator is running now through August 9th.

New York City is one of the most walkable cities in the world.

According to Walkable, the city as a whole has a Walk Score of 85 out of 100. Particularly, neighborhoods in Manhattan like Greenwich Village, SoHo, the Upper East Side, Koreatown, Midtown, and the Theater District all score a solid 99-100.

That means, when you’re staying at the Hotel Penn, you have plenty of options for stuff to do near Penn Station. Best of all, you won’t have to mess with taxis or public transport if you don’t want to – you can just walk to your destination!

10 NEW YORK ATTRACTIONS YOU CAN WALK TO FROM PENN STATION

While you’re visiting, a quick walk will take you to any of these iconic New York attractions from Penn Station and the Hotel Penn.

1. EMPIRE STATE BUILDING

Of all the stuff to do near Penn Station, the Empire State Building tops most visitors’ lists. Rightly nicknamed “New York’s observation deck,” this attraction has been featured in countless Hollywood movie scenes. From the top, you’ll get a bird’s eye view of the surrounding city and take in a bit of New York’s history, too.

2. BRYANT PARK

No matter the time of year you visit NYC, Bryant Park offers fun and events for all seasons. Best of all, it’s just a 10-15-minute walk from Penn Station.

Whether you enjoy outdoor concerts, movie nights, or Shakespearean performances in the warmer months, or the Winter Village, skating rink, and other activities during the cooler months, you won’t run out of things to do.

3. TIMES SQUARE

No trip to New York would be complete without a stop at Times Square. This New York City attraction is a bustling hub of neon lights, shops and restaurants, and show business.

Of course, it’s perhaps most famous for the New Year’s Eve Ball Drop, but it also boasts art displays, Broadway shows, and plenty of entertainment.

4. THE THEATER DISTRICT

Want a true taste of Broadway? Head to the Theater District in Midtown Manhattan. It’s a mere 15-minute walk from Penn Station.

Here you can visit the major Broadway theaters and see a show, partake in delicious local dining at any number of hot spots, or even have a seat and a listen at one of the reputed jazz clubs.

5. RADIO CITY MUSIC HALL

A 20-minute trip will take you straight to Radio City Music Hall, an NYC institution since the early 1930s. This is the home base of the world-famous Rockettes as well as a renowned venue for all kinds of shows, concerts, and performances.

6. CHRYSLER BUILDING

Yet another of New York’s famous skyscrapers is the Chrysler Building. It was completed in 1930 and features a signature Art Deco design and architecture. It briefly held the distinction of being the tallest building in the world, but the Empire State Building nudged it out of first place just 11 months after it was built.

7. GRAND CENTRAL TERMINAL

Grand Central Terminal is a transportation hub, an architectural gem, and a major New York attraction. When you visit, be sure to check out highlights such as the Main Concourse Ceiling – it features a mural of the Zodiac painted in gold-leaf – as well as the iconic Information Booth Clock, the Whispering Gallery, and over 65 shops and 35 restaurants.

8. KOREATOWN

Just a 5-7-minute walk from Penn Station is Koreatown. If enjoying a little slice of Asian culture appeals to you, you must visit this alternative to Chinatown. Eat traditional and fresh takes on Korean food. Check out shops and major chains popular in South Korea. Most of all, join the hustle and bustle of this vibrant neighborhood in Manhattan.

9. MAGNET THEATER

The Magnet Theater is a popular venue for improv and sketch comedy shows. You can also learn from the pros in free improv classes.

10. MADISON SQUARE GARDEN

Madison Square Garden is one of the most popular entertainment venues in the world. It’s the home of the New York Knicks and the Rangers, and can seat over 20,000 people. Luckily, Madison Square Garden is only steps away from Penn Station.

FIND AN AMAZING AMOUNT OF STUFF TO DO NEAR PENN STATION

Penn Station is truly a hub for all things fun in Midtown Manhattan. There are countless New York attractions in walking distance – even more than we can fit in here – which means you’ll have zero trouble finding your next adventure in NYC.

Don’t forget: The historic Pennsylvania Hotel is right across the street from Penn Station. If you want to be centrally located and close to everything, stay with us!

AAA MEMBER DISCOUNTS YOU CAN’T IGNORE…

Members of the American Automotive Association—better known as AAA – know that a membership can mean the difference between being stuck on the road or receiving friendly roadside assistance. However, if you have a fairly reliable car, what are the AAA member discounts truly worth?

One word: discounts. Who wouldn’t like to travel for cheap?

AAA DISCOUNTS ON TRAVEL

For starters, your membership grants you access to the AAA Travel Store. Depending on the tier of your membership, you could receive up to 20% discounts across the board, and up to two free passport photos per year. Also included, based on membership tier, is a percentage of travel insurance, so you can be sure to keep your mind on vacation and not on your valuables.

AAA HOTEL DISCOUNTS

Whether you’re planning a week-long cross-country getaway or just a day trip to a different city, your AAA membership can make the cost of a hotel room dramatically cheaper. With partnerships with over three dozen hotel chains offering discounts on nightly stays, accelerated point loyalty point earnings, and other perks, it’s hard to say no. Chains like Hilton offer up to 10% discounts on nightly rates, and individual hotels like Hotel Pennsylvania offers a 20% discount.

AAA CAR RENTAL DISCOUNTS

While you’re on vacation, you may need to rent a car. With AAA, partnerships with several national car rental chains makes it even easier to get a set of wheels. Hertz alone grants members 20% off rentals, with discounted rates for GPS units and no premium for drivers under age 25. Similarly, Dollar Rent A Car users will save 10% off the rental price, with 10% savings on any navigation units.

OTHER VALUABLE SAVINGS

AAA discounts on travel don’t stop there – dining discounts can be had through Restaraunts.com or instant discounts are available at some chain restaurants, such as Dave & Buster’s or Papa John’s. In case you were worried about leaving Fido behind, don’t – there is even a discount for pet travel products.

Wherever you go and whatever you do, AAA is with you. Let them make your stay in New York a bit easier by booking with us online.

THE SPOOKIEST HAUNTED HOTELS NEW YORK HAS TO OFFER

In a city like New York, there are endless options for hotels to stay in. For adventurous travelers, staying at a haunted hotel can bring a fun spin to luxurious comfort that is sure to keep them on edge. Whether seeking adventure or just something different, these six haunted New York hotels are sure to make it like Halloween year-round.

THE ALGONQUIN HOTEL

Built in 1902 and renovated as recently as 2004, The Algonquin Hotel boasts 174 rooms and no shortage of paranormal activity. The hotel is most famous for the roundtable writers meetings known as the “Vicious Circle,” including well-known playwright Dorothy Parker. While strange noises and unexplained sightings were common prior to renovations, the structural changes seem to have upset the otherwordly residents of the Hotel.

THE BOWERY HOTEL

Despite the Bowery Hotel’s being a hotspot for swanky parties and upscale events, its also well known as being a hotspot for paranormal activity. Each of the 135 rooms boasts a sense of nostalgia a la velvet upholstery – that is, if guests can brave the poltergeist-ridden elevators to reach said rooms. Every night at 1 a.m., especially, the elevators are said to go up and down without any explanation.

THE HOTEL CHELSEA

As any purveyor of paranormal activity will tell you, no haunted hotel list is complete without the Hotel Chelsea. Although there have been a myriad of instances that could have led to hauntings within the hotel, the most notable is that of Sex Pistols member Sid Vicious and his girlfriend Nancy: Sid murdered Nancy at the hotel, and later died there himself of a heroin overdose.

THE BERMUDA INN

While this historic mansion currently serves more actively as an event space, it would be wrong to not include it on our list of notable haunted hotels. Built in 1832 by the Meserau family, it is widely accepted that Martha Meserau still calls the mansion home. Her silhouette is seen frequently, although paintings have only mysteriously caught on fire once.

HOTEL PENNSYLVANIA

Last but not least is newcomer Hotel Pennsylvania. Built in 1919 and currently the fourth largest hotel in New York City, Hotel Pennsylvania seems relatively normal on the surface, beyond boasting original décor and the oldest phone number in the City’s history. However, guests have reported mysterious shadow figures hovering over their bedside and unexplained noises following them throughout the halls.

Whether you are a scholar of spooky or just looking for a new adventure, staying at a haunted hotel in New York turns an average stay into an extraordinary experience.

Pennsylvania Station, or Penn Station, is a travel mecca that sees hundreds of thousands of people pass through its doors each day.

This hub is key to getting to some of New York’s best-known landmarks from other parts of the city. But, there’s more to the station than meets the eye.

We’ve gathered 20 Penn Station facts, tidbits, and trivia to help you uncover its interesting past and present.

20 LITTLE-KNOWN PENN STATION FACTS AND TRIVIA

Ready for some Penn Station trivia? Let’s start with one of the most important facts:

1. PENN STATION IS ONE OF THE BUSIEST RAILWAY STATIONS IN THE WORLD.

It serves about 650,000 travelers and commuters every single day. The only station in NYC that’s busier? Grand Central Terminal.

2. THE ORIGINAL PENN STATION OPENED IN 1910.

The building was an architectural marvel. It included a soaring coffered ceiling and incredible iron and glass arches. The design inspiration came from the ancient Roman Baths of Caracalla as well as European train stations.

3. THE ORIGINAL PENN STATION WAS MOSTLY DEMOLISHED IN 1963 AND REPLACED WITH THE CURRENT INCARNATION.

Before it was demolished, developers attempted to modernize the station. They added a mid-century ticket booth, fluorescent lighting, and modern advertisements, which clashed with the grandeur of the original structure.

4. THE ORIGINAL BUILDING COVERED 8 ACRES UNDERNEATH MANHATTAN.

Today, the station has 11 platforms and 22 tracks.

5. YOU CAN DISCOVER PIECES OF THE ORIGINAL PENN STATION ON A GUIDED TOUR.

Tours are offered by Peek and OnBoard Sightseeing Tours. Remnants of the classic, grand architecture of the original are supposedly hidden in plain sight.

6. THE CURRENT STATION WAS BUILT IN 1964.

The new Penn Station and Madison Square Garden were constructed at the same time.

7. AN ABANDONED PASSAGEWAY UNDERGROUND CONNECTED TO PENN STATION IS CALLED “GIMBELS PASSAGEWAY”.

The passageway was closed in the 1990s due to safety concerns.

8. PENN STATION SERVES AMTRAK, NEW JERSEY TRANSIT, AND LONG ISLAND RAIL ROAD CUSTOMERS.

Generally, the station serves more people per day than all the New York City airports combined.

9. LOST IN PENN STATION? LOOK AT THE FLOOR.

Each transportation company that serves Penn Station travelers has a different floor type associated with their part of the station. Here’s a cheat-sheet:

• Amtrak – Huge tile blocks with silver joints
• Long Island Railroad – Tile that looks like granite
• New Jersey Transit – Marble

10. THE ORIGINAL STATION WAS BUILT BY THE PENNSYLVANIA RAILROAD COMPANY.

The company was chartered in 1846 but is no longer in existence.

11. THE ORIGINAL STRUCTURE WAS A PRIME EXAMPLE OF BEAUX-ARTS ARCHITECTURE.

Beaux-Arts was a popular design style in the United States from the late-1800s to the mid-1920s.

12. THE DESIGN FIRM THAT LED THE ORIGINAL PROJECT WAS MCKIM, MEAD, & WHITE.

This company was responsible for many other famous buildings still standing in greater New York State and New England: Boston Public Library, the White House’s redesigned West and East Wings, Columbia University’s main campus, and the Brooklyn Museum are a few examples.

13. PENN STATION WAS ORIGINALLY BUILT AS PART OF PENNSYLVANIA RAILROAD’S PLAN TO EXTEND SERVICE ACROSS THE HUDSON RIVER.

They chose to tunnel underneath the river rather than build a bridge over it.

14. DURING ITS FIRST 10 YEARS OF OPERATION, TWO-THIRDS OF THE STATION’S TRAVELERS WERE COMMUTERS.

The station connected the city proper to the suburbs.

15. THE DEMOLITION OF THE ORIGINAL STRUCTURE HELPED SPUR THE LANDMARKS PRESERVATION ACT.

This act is what saved Grand Central Terminal from demolition during the same decade the original Penn Station was torn down.

16. THE ORIGINAL STATION’S ORIGINAL COAL-FIRED POWER PLANT IS STILL STANDING.

One of the biggest remnants leftover from the original station is the power plant across the street. It used to power the whole station, but now it’s in disrepair.

17. PENN STATION’S CURRENT INCARNATION SITS DIRECTLY BELOW MADISON SQUARE GARDEN, TWO PENN PLAZA, AND 33RD STREET.

A useful Penn Station fact: Its location is ideal if you’re traveling to Madison Square to catch a game or a concert.

18. PENN STATION IS THE MAJOR HUB FOR NEARBY ATTRACTIONS LIKE THE EMPIRE STATE BUILDING, KOREATOWN, MADISON SQUARE GARDEN, AND MORE.

Get off at Penn Station, and you’ll be a stone’s throw from iconic New York City scenes.

19. ONCE UPON A TIME, THE NEIGHBORHOOD THE STATION NOW OCCUPIES WAS A SEEDY AREA CALLED “THE TENDERLOIN.”

Recently, this bit of history (and the Tenderloin’s crime-soaked past) garnered the spotlight thanks to a period drama on TNT called The Alienist.

20. CHANGES ARE COMING TO PENN STATION.

Additions and remodeling plans are on the docket for the transportation hub. These may include new entrances and a new pedestrian plaza.

LEARN MORE PENN STATION TRIVIA

Penn Station is a fascinating place full of history. With this Penn Station trivia in hand, you’ll never cross its doors again without seeing it in a new light.

Know what else is close to Penn Station? The historic Pennsylvania Hotel – it’s right across the street. Stay with us and get prime access to one of the major hubs in NYC.

WHAT SHOULD YOU DO IN NEW YORK THIS DECEMBER?

December in New York is nothing short of spectacular. There is so much going on for Christmas and the holiday season, it’s nearly impossible to do it all. That’s why we’re trying to make it simple for you. If you really want to make the most out of a visit to New York, try doing these activities.

We purposely left out some of the more common activities that everybody knows about. You can get those anywhere. Here are three that you might not have thought about though.

ICE SKATING AT WOLLMAN RINK

By all means, we recommend going to see the Rockefeller Center Christmas tree. It’s gorgeous and the energy of everybody around there is absolutely intoxicating. We love it!

If you want to rent some skates with an awesome background for a lower price and avoid some of the lines, we suggest walking down to Wollman Rink in Central Park. This rink has been a hit to everybody who knows about it. Enjoy its slightly lesser known status while it lasts.

SHOP THE CITY MARKETS

Always hit up the iconic shops of New York like Macy’s and Saks Fifth Avenue. They’re icons and staples of shopaholics for a reason. Tis the season of the best deals and there is a certain magic to the department stores.

You know what else has some magic though, the many city markets in the winter. The Bank of America Winter Village at Bryant Park may be the most well known. (There’s also a 17,000 square foot ice rink there.) We also recommend Union Square Holiday Market and Grand Central Holiday Fair.

Each of the markets has its own charm and unique vendors. Do yourself a favor though and don’t try to visit them all in one day.

CHECK OUT THE WINDOW DISPLAYS

When you’re out there shopping, don’t forget to check out the amazing window displays that pop up around the city. Saks Fifth Avenue plans their window display for the entire year leading up to the season.

You should also check out Macy’s, Bloomingdale’s, Barney’s, Bergdorf Goodman, and Lord & Taylor.

NOVEMBER IS FULL OF AMAZING EVENTS AT THE GARDEN!

2017 is flying by but there is still a lot of time left to see some pretty amazing shows at Madison Square Garden. While many venues are home to a couple sporting events and concerts, The Garden continues to be a hub for any and all major events. November is no exception to that truth. Here are a few of the events that you should ABSOLUTELY hit up at MSG in November.

UFC 217: NOVEMBER 4

GSP is taking on Bisping! We shouldn’t have to sell it any harder to any real MMA fans out there. Two hall-of-fame fighters are meeting and they’re meeting at the best combat sports venue in the world! Can Georges “Rush” St-Pierre come back strong at this higher weight class or will “The Count” prove too much for him to handle? We’re all about to find out. Millions will tune in but you can see it live!

NEW YORK KNICKS VS CAVS: NOVEMBER 13

The Knicks have a lot of games at The Garden in November but no other ones bring Lebron James and the Cleveland Cavaliers to NYC. On November, you can see The King himself take on Kristaps “The Unicorn” Porzingis. While many people don’t think that our team will make a big splash in the NBA this year, this game promises to bring some fireworks. We all know how much big stars like James love playing in The Garden.

BILLY JOEL: NOVEMBER 18

It wouldn’t feel like a good month at The Garden without Billy Joel performing. The living legend is still amazing fans with his live performances. Some musicians are simply timeless and will amaze crowds for decades. No place is more of a home for Mr. Joel than Madison Square Garden. Spend your money on great tickets and save a little money on your room and Uber home by staying across the street with us.

As always, you can check out the official Madison Square Garden website for a full list of events with links to tickets.

MADISON SQUARE GARDEN BRINGS IN CONCERT ROYALTY

Our neighbors across the street are one of the most iconic venues in North America. As such, they bring in some of the most iconic music acts in the world every year. This September is no different. From classic artists whose influences go back to the 60’s to today’s top pop music icons, this is not a series that you want to miss.

As always, we have a room waiting for you right across the street.

ERIC CLAPTON: SEPTEMBER 7-8

He shot the sheriff and he’s coming to The Garden. He’s a living legend and you never know when he’ll stop touring. That’s why we won’t be missing any opportunities to see the ‘Forever Man’ artist in person. Whether you’ve been a fan since he was with The Yardbirds or you’re a new fan, this is not one that you’re going to want to miss.

ARCADE FIRE: SEPTEMBER 12

Indie rock was given a gift when Arcade Fire started touring Canada. Since the early years, they’ve become one of the largest indie rock groups in the world. In recent years, Arcade Fire has once again graced us with new music and we’re loving it. Everything Now is a great new release and we can’t wait to hear it live.

SAM HUNT: SEPTEMBER 14

Don’t ‘Take Your Time’ when it comes to purchasing your tickets to Sam Hunt at The Garden. The Georgia native is going to rock Madison Square Garden His new hit, ‘Body Like a Backroad’ is one of our favorite jams right now. If you’re looking for one of the freshest acts in the world, this concert is for you.

PAUL MCCARTNEY: SEPTEMBER 15-17

BRUNO MARS: SEPTEMBER 22-23

From the act with the richest history to possibly the biggest live performer currently touring in the world. Bruno Mars has rocked stages internationally and even headlined Super Bowl 50 alongside Beyonce. From his music to killer dance moves, Bruno is known to put on one of the best shows that you’ll ever see. He may be all about the Uptown Funk but he’s going to be setting the roof on fire in Midtown New York this September.

Buy tickets to all of the concerts listed here and more on the Madison Square Garden website.

Summer in the city can be hot. While we love the NYC summer, it can get a little hot. We could complain about that or look on the bright side and see the great opportunity that lays before us. With heat comes the best excuse to eat at all of the amazing ice cream shops in New York City.

Since our hotel is in the Midtown area of Manhattan, we’re going to focus on ice cream shops within walking distance of Hotel Pennsylvania. Here are 5 spots that you should absolutely go to, whether or not you’re staying with us.

TOP 5 MIDTOWN AREA ICE CREAM RESTAURANTS

*Listed in no particular order*

SNOWDAYS

While Snowdays has a few locations, there is a location just down 7th Avenue that we like to take a little walk to when we’re feeling a craving. When you think to yourself, “Where can I go and get enough ice cream to give myself a brain freeze that never ends?”, this is the place you should think about.

These cups of Yeti cold gold are not always for the faint of heart but they are a challenge worth taking.

Directions to Snowdays

TIPSY SCOOP

Kip Bay isn’t all that far away. Besides, you see that awesome ice cream below? What if I were to tell you that it had booze in it? Oh yeah! That’s exactly what we’re talking about here. Tipsy Scoop is an ice cream ‘barlour’ in its full glory. There are a number of ways that you can mix ice cream with alcohol and the master chemists at Tipsy Scoop have figured out the best formulas.

If you don’t feel like walking, they also do delivery.

Directions to Tipsy Scoop

AMORINO – THEATER DISTRICT

What’s that? You’re looking for some fancy ice cream. How about some amazing gelato? Amorino is full of fancy and delicious treats. These are some highly Instagrammable pieces of ice cream art we’re talking about here. What else would you expect from the area though?

If you’ve ever wondered what it would be like to eat a flower of gelato, you can have that question answered. The bottom line is that this place is full of amazing eats that have some major aesthetic appeal.

Directions to Amarino

MOMOFUKO MILK BAR- MIDTOWN

There are a lot of great things that we could say about Milk Bar since it graced Midtown with its presence. What we love most (besides the ice cream) is the awesome atmosphere. The light-hearted yet hip styling of the ice cream and the shop is perfect for our little slice of NYC heaven.

The ice cream is so good that people and dogs alike will be jealous.

Directions to Milk Bar Midtown

MR. SOFTEE ICE CREAM TRUCK

There is a reason that Mr Softee has 4.5 stars on Yelp. Yeah, they only have 6 reviews but we stand by them. After all, doesn’t an ice cream truck bring us all back to our childhood in an awesome way? We know that every time that we see the truck, our hearts and stomachs grow three sizes larger.

Keep an eye out for this beautiful truck and grab yourself a cone! It may not be fancy but it’s amazing.

While baseball may be America’s pastime, basketball is a sport that has helped shape, and been shaped by, New York City for over 50 years. From NBA greats having career-defining moments at Madison Square Garden to average New Yorkers taking time to live out their own hoop dreams through a game of pick-up at one of the city’s many public courts, basketball has become such an integral part of New York’s culture that the city has developed it’s own distinctive savvy style of play known as “The City Game” that has helped it field some of the best point guards the game has ever seen.

New York City is home to three professional basketball teams: the New York Knicks and Brooklyn Nets in the NBA, and the New York Liberty for the WNBA, but its high school and college programs have been just as instrumental in developing great players like Kareem Abdul-Jabbar and Chris Mullin. In fact, professional basketball associations were originally created in the late 1940s to capitalize on the growing popularity of collegiate basketball games.

So it seems only fitting that New York is home to the longest running college basketball tournaments to be held at one site: the Big East Conference at Madison Square Garden.

Big East is one of the biggest collegiate sports tournaments, featuring 10 schools from across the northeastern United States competing in a variety of sports from golf to lacrosse, but since basketball really is the City Game, it’s the men’s and women’s basketball tournaments that bring the conference’s biggest crowds to the games’ historic Madison Square Garden venue. Over the years, Big East has seen some of the greatest moments in college basketball, including Kemba Walker’s record-shattering 130 points and 5 wins on 5 consecutive nights, and the longest Division 1 game in history, when Syracuse beat Connecticut in sixth overtime in 2009.

Madison Square Garden is a venue with a unique place in basketball history, and has been known to bring out the best in some of the game’s most elite players. We’re so excited to be just across the street from the Garden when all the action tips off on March 8. We hope to see you in the stands, and remember that you’re welcome to come stay with us across the street and avoid all that post-game traffic!

It’s true, NYC never stops. While most think about hibernating during the winter months, NYC is full of exciting activities that will make you forget about the cold brisk winter air.

Stay warm and cozy with delicious hot chocolate and fresh cookies at Jacques Torres. With 8 locations around the city, no matter where you happen to be, there shouldn’t be a location too far. Cozy up in the original Dumbo location in Brooklyn where it all began.

If you don’t mind the cold weather, go skating at one of the beautiful rinks the city has to offer. Whether you prefer the hustle and bustle of The Rink at Rockefeller Center or the less-crowded Trump Lasker Rink, the city has many options so you are able to find your perfect winter wonderland skating experience.

If it is a milder day, take a relaxing walk through the famous Central Park. This NYC classic park is truly spectacular in the winter. The snow makes it look absolutely magical.

For lunch, hit up a nice restaurant like The NoMad to get a ritzy NYC experience. Tip: lunch will not hurt your wallet like dinner would. Try the chicken burger with foie gras, black truffle mayonnaise and fries.

Don’t let the winter weather stop you from exploring beautiful NYC. Stay with us to make your winter wonderland dreams come true.

Give thanks with Hotel Penn this year! On Thursday, November 24^th the annual Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade will kick off the perfect Thanksgiving weekend.

Join us at the ultimate spot to watch the famous Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, as we are located just steps away from all the action. The parade, famous for its giant floats, balloons, clowns, cheerleaders and even celebrities, is one of the most famous New York City events in the month of November.  Though you may have watched the parade at home on the big screen, there is no better way to experience the excitement in the city than watching it in person!

Recommended spots for watching the parade include Central Park West, Columbus Circle and along Sixth Avenue, all steps away from Hotel Penn! All areas are free for the public to watch, as this is a non-ticketed event.

The parade starts promptly at 9 am, but those expecting to get a prime viewing location should head for the streets by 7am.

For more information about the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, visit: http://social.macys.com/parade/

This city is home to some of the savviest deal-hunters, rack combers and brand aficionados in the world. Stay with us and you’ll have a chance to join them at some of the most legendary shopping destinations. Whether your tastes run to the likes of legendary designer stores, tried-and-trusted basics or avant-garde gear, it’s all within reach of our Herald Square hotel. Embark on your next NYC shopping excursion with confidence and visit our special shoppers’ package to enjoy success in the fashion arena.

By far the biggest draw – and the closest to our doors – is Macy’s. A spectacular sight even when it’s not holiday season, Macy’s is one of the most famous department stores in the world, renowned for its 740 stores and historic character (including the original wooden elevators). Select irresistible makeup and clothes from brands like MAC, Polo Ralph Lauren, and Calvin Klein, take advantage of the frequent (and expansive) discounts, and experience shoppers from all over the planet bonding over classic fashions.

Nearby, Fifth Avenue is the perennial favorite of window shoppers everywhere, and for good reason: even with all the glitz and glamor afforded by simply walking past Saks Fifth Avenue and fashion titans like Zegna, Versace, and Ferragamo, nothing can compare to Bergdorf. Bergdorf Goodman’s windows are works of art, as shown in a recent documentary, and walking through its expansive floors will transport you to a different strata of New York society.

Farther into Chelsea, you’ll pass by local favorites Chelsea Market, a bustling hipster haven, and Second Time Around, the classic purveyor of meticulously-curated second-hand designer wear. The off-beat and the classic live side-by-side throughout our hotel’s surrounding neighborhoods, and if you live for the unusual, a day’s worth of wandering will bring you to the likes of Kirna Zabete in SoHo, ABC Carpet and Home in Flatiron, or Screaming Mimi’s in NoHo. No plan is necessary to have the time of your life, although our concierge will happily share some points of interest to guide your quest.

No shopping trip in NYC would be complete without unbeatable savings. Book the Shopper’s Special package while staying with us in Midtown Manhattan, and you’ll receive:

Macy’s 10% Discount, Dillon’s Candy 10% Discount, and $10 Starbucks Card.

Once you’ve called it a day and are ready to unwind from an overload of style, we’ll help you get extra relaxed with a waiver for Hotel Penn’s daily facilities fees ($20 per day approx.), which gives you and your guests free high-speed Wi-Fi, free long distance and local calls from your room, and free access to Bally’s Fitness center (18+).

Fashion heaven is calling – make your reservations with Hotel Penn, and join New York’s most well-heeled in the shopping trip of a lifetime!

At long last, we’re ready to unveil our big spring surprise.

After extensive renovations, Hotel Pennsylvania is proud to present our guests with the all-new Penn 5000 Club rooms. Boasting the best in luxury amenities for New York City travelers on the go, these deluxe rooms are a much-desired addition to the face of Hotel Penn, and we’re thrilled to welcome guests to the new surroundings at our renovated Herald Square hotel.

The Penn 5000 Club Rooms are designed to provide a total retreat from the ordinary, and the changes have only enhanced this feeling. Book a Penn 5000 Club room, and discover our brand-new upgrades:

Browse the Internet free and fast with our wireless High-Speed Internet. Catch up on all your favorite shows on a new 40” LG LED HD television. Kick back and relax with the help of our extensive furniture upgrade package. Get the perfect night’s sleep with top-of-the-line pillow top mattress, plush luxurious carpeting, and even more.

There’s nothing like a new feeling in a familiar location. That’s why our Penn 5000 Club Rooms offer the best opportunity to have a brand new NYC vacation experience in a classic Manhattan neighborhood. Enjoy all the top Midtown Manhattan attractions you know and love, only moments from our hotel doors, all while benefiting from the comforting new surroundings of the Penn 5000 Club Rooms. Whether you’re here for business, family travel or a couples’ escape, these newly revamped NYC accommodations are bound to win you over.

New York is best enjoyed alongside someone who knows the town by heart. That’s where our Concierge Picks come in. In addition to making sure our guests have everything they need for their Manhattan hotel rooms, Hotel Penn’s Concierge Services are also the best source for all the practical know-how you need to navigate the city.

Looking for ideas on what to do, see and hear while staying with us? Use our Concierge Picks to guide you, and you’ll choose flawlessly!

With our vantage point in the center of the city, we’d recommend starting off close to home. Grab a classic Manhattan breakfast at Absolute Bagels before checking out Madison Square Garden, Penn Plaza and our Herald Square surroundings.

Once you’ve covered the basics, it’s time for one of our personal favorites. Visit an Upright Citizens Brigade session to experience some of the freshest up-and-coming comedic talent the city has to offer, all at one of the best values around.

Want to see the city through local eyes? Consider a Big Onion Walking Tour, one of the best-rated of its kind. Choose from the operator’s Central Park, Chinatown, Historic Harlem and Greenwich Village editions, and learn things you never imagined about these one-of-a-kind neighborhoods from well-versed tour guides.

The city’s museums include some of the most instantly recognizable places in the world, but some of the ones we love the most are the less-frequented. The Lower East Side Tenement Museum, a preserved apartment house that shows what life was like in the 1870s, early 1900s and 1930s, is one of the most unique places in NYC for anyone interested in the city’s history of immigration. Moving on, the excellent Jacques Marchais Tibetan Museum is the only museum devoted to Tibet in the U.S., and the New Museum offers intriguing glimpses of contemporary art.

No list of suggestions would be complete without pointing you in the direction of some of our most beloved places to wine and dine in our neighborhood. Close to our Penn Station hotel, you’ll find the charming wine bar Ayza, the lively beer-lover’s favorite Heartland Brewery, and the classic cheesecake of Junior’s.

We don’t just want you to have an unforgettable experience of comfort while staying in our Herald Square hotel rooms. With Hotel Penn’s Concierge at your service, you can plan a trip that includes everything you’ve hoped for.

Can you think of anywhere more iconic to celebrate the beginning of a brand new year than New York City? Neither can we.

If you’ve never watched the ball drop in the heart of Times Square, or seen fireworks light up the sky from some glamorous rooftop, or danced the night away before an epic champagne toast, why not start a new tradition? Our Midtown NYC hotel is located just steps from all the action of Times Square and within easy access of a multitude of celebrations throughout the city.

Learn more about some of our favorite things to do on New Year’s Eve below.

BALL DROP IN TIMES SQUARE

Since 1907, this mainstay tradition has captivated the country, but it has always taken place in the heart of Times Square. Arrive by 3pm to claim your spot in the Broadway–Seventh Avenue area, with performances beginning at 6pm. You’ll be rewarded at midnight when the iconic glittering sphere descends 70 feet before an exciting 60-second fireworks display begins, coating the giant crowd in confetti at the stroke of midnight.

NEW YEAR’S EVE PARTY RIDE

The environmental organization Time’s Up heads this under-the-stars bike ride, which starts in Washington Square Park and ends at Central Park’s Belvedere Castle at 11:45pm. Feel free to dress up in a festive outfit, and remember to bring treats for the outdoor after party.

NEW YEAR’S EVE AT THE EDISON BALLROOM WITH JOE BATTAGLIA

Keep things classy by opting for a night of dinner and dancing in the Art Deco-infused Edison Ballroom. Every ticket includes a four-course meal and don’t forget your dancing shoes. Joe Battaglia and his brass band will be playing all the swing classics.

AMC 42ND STREET NYC NEW YEARS EVE

This one-stop shop for NYE festivities covers four floors of fun. A live DJ will spin Top 40 hits, movies will play all night long, kids can hang out at the arcade with concessions, and the hotspot has one of the best views of the ball drop available.

BOWLMOR TIMES SQUARE NYE BASH

You won’t forget this night at Times Square’s hip bowling alley, Bowlmor, offering private bowling lanes, a five-hour premium open bar, and a champagne toast at midnight across the hotspot’s 90,000 square feet.

HARBOR LIGHTS BOAT CRUISE PARTY

With breathtaking views of the New York City skyline, a delicious full dinner buffet and a live DJ, this boat cruise party is a unique way to ring in the New Year. The boat is equipped with multiple climate-controlled decks, fully-stocked bars, dance floors and enough space for 400 guests.

Spooky, scary and spectacular fun is easy to come by this time of year in New York City – and we should know: Hotel Penn is located near some of NYC’s favorite Halloween locales, ranging from haunted landmarks to witchy watering holes. Whether you’re thirsting for your horror movie fix or looking to show off the captivating costume you’ve been perfecting, our neighborhood will have virtually anything you’re looking for. Halloween events, parades, bars and more are all close by. Here are some of the most promising NYC Halloween 2015 highlights we’ve found so far.

The Village Halloween Parade is, of course, the banner event for Halloween in NYC. Advertising no less than a total takeover consisting of 53 bands and thousands of dressed-up New Yorkers, the parade takes off on 6th Avenue at Canal Street between 6:30 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. on October 31. This year’s theme is “Shine a Light,” so if you’re up for some excitement, grab your costume and join the fun.

For the canine companions of the brave souls who make the Village Halloween Parade what it is, there’s the Tompkins Square Halloween Dog Parade, putting human costumes to shame and showering showman-like pups with $4,000 worth of prizes. Be warned, prospective dog-parents: as this event serves primarily as a charitable cause, this event always hosts rescue organizations, with all the irresistible adoptable dogs that implies.

If you’re seeking an historic outlet for your haunted-house fix, you can do no better than the Merchant’s House Museum. Open to the public as a museum since the 1930s, Merchant’s House has been the regular locus of paranormal activity, reported by staff, visitors, and neighbors. A 50-minute candlelight ghost tour will guide you through the murky past of the house, home of the Tredwell family, so that you can decide whether or not these reports have merit.

Selected by critics as one of the most haunted places in New York City, The Porterhouse at Fraunces Tavern has both the pedigree and the aesthetics to back up that claim. As one of the oldest bars in New York, Fraunces Tavern’s link to American history is as intriguing as its olden-days décor.

As far as Halloween parties go, it’s safe to say you can be your spookiest self at the Dark Disco soiree. Hosted every year by Tiki Disco, this will be a special Halloween edition of the group’s usual offerings. There’s also the Freedom Party NYC, boasting the city’s most essential monster mashes.

The NYC Horror Film Festival is a beacon for the most lurid minds out there. Whatever your tastes – from B-horror to arthouse splendor – the lineup is bound to satisfy all horror cravings for indie luminaries and newcomers to the genre alike.

These are by no means the only Halloween events in NYC. Check out some comprehensive guides to Halloween fun in Manhattan, and discover how you’ll make your most eerie experiences last forever.

Hotel Penn is conveniently located across the street from Penn Station, which gives you access to all the events in New Jersey and upstate New York. Plan a day trip to experience the happenings just outside of the city. Our hotel near Penn Station gives you access to the best of the area surrounding New York. Have a day trip with these great New York City area attractions.

You can walk from Penn Station, and arrive in your hotel room in just 8 mins! Watch the video below:

GO FOR GOAL WITH NYCFC AND NEW YORK RED BULLS

RED BULL ARENA

600 CAPE MAY ST

HARRISON, NJ 07029

NYCFC

1 E 161ST ST

BRONX, NY 10451

New York’s newest soccer team has taken up residence in the Bronx. Head up to Yankee Stadium to see world class players, like David Villa, play in NYCFC’s inaugural season. Cheer on American talent as well, like national team star Mix Diskerud. Meanwhile, the New York Red Bulls have historically been New York’s best soccer team. Head on the PATH train from Penn Station to Harrison, NJ, to watch them play in Red Bull Arena. Choose your side, and cheer your team to victory as they try to be New York’s best team.

SEE JERSEY CITY’S EMPTY SKY MEMORIAL

1 AUDREY ZAPP DRIVE

JERSEY CITY, NJ 07305

While most tourists will head to the World Trade Center’s Reflecting Pool, this lesser-known 9/11 memorial is just as poignant. The memorial is located in Liberty State Park in Jersey City, at the mouth of the Hudson River, and right across the water from The World Trade Center. The memorial was dedicated on Saturday, September 10, 2011, a day before the tenth anniversary of 9/11. The memorial includes twin walls, transecting a gently sloped mound, anchored by a granite path that is directed toward Ground Zero. Two 30-foot-high rectangular towers stretch 208 feet, 10 inches long, the exact width of the World Trade Center towers. The proportion of the walls a symbolic representation of the buildings as if they were lying on their sides. The name of each of the 746 New Jersey natives killed during the attacks is etched in stainless steel in 4-inch-high letters.

STROLL THE HOBOKEN WATERFRONT WALKWAY

HOBOKEN, NJ

Hoboken is charming waterside New Jersey neighborhood, and definitely a place to visit if you’re looking for lesser-known New York attractions. Their waterfront walkway gives you amazing views of the Manhattan skyline. For a quiet, pleasant walk, there’s no better place than this gorgeous Hudson River-side park.

VISIT KYKUIT, THE ROCKEFELLER FAMILY ESTATE

381 NORTH BROADWAY,

SLEEPY HOLLOW, NY

This hilltop paradise was home to four generations of the Rockefeller family, beginning with the philanthropist John D. Rockefeller, founder of Standard Oil. His business acumen made him, in his day, the richest man in America. Now a historic site of the National Trust for Historic Preservation, this extraordinary landmark has been continuously and meticulously maintained for more than 100 years. Their tours take you to the main rooms of the six-story stone house. Then, you move through the expansive, terraced gardens containing an exceptional collection of 20th-century sculpture. Artists include Pablo Picasso, Henry Moore, and Alexander Calder, among many others. The underground art galleries, holding Picasso tapestries, and the cavernous Coach Barn, with its collections of classic automobiles and horse-drawn carriages, are also part of the experience.

Fashion Week overtakes New York City this February with a week of events for fashion legends, press, stylists, emerging designers, and spectators. From indie designers to global megabrands, this celebration of chic has something for everyone to enjoy. Hotel Penn offers the best accommodations in the city to help you get the most out of Fashion Week. Here’s our guide to the best of the events happening all throughout NYC during this glamorous week.

COUTURE FASHION WEEK

CROWNE PLAZA TIMES SQUARE MANHATTAN

1605 BROADWAY

NEW YORK, NY 10019

In the midst of Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week, there’s Courture Fashion Week, a three-day show promoting luxury and couture fashion. CFW includes dozens of cutting edge, world famous designers debuting new selections to the world, including Andres Aquino, Martha Fadel, and the American debut of Asian designer Asri Welas. The show also showcases art and installations by Tatiana Tret, Melanie Ezra, and Celine Pellerin. Now in its tenth year, this luxuriant show is not to be missed for the serious fashionista.

SMALL BOUTIQUE FASHION WEEK

FEBRUARY 14TH

METROPOLITAN PAVILION

125 WEST 18TH STREET

NEW YORK, NY 1001

Small Boutique Fashion Week is geared towards connecting boutique owners with emerging designers, but you don’t need to be there for business to watch some of the emerging names in the fashion world. Now in its 7th year, this show has expanded to Atlanta as well. With resources year round, this organization helps boutique owners and emerging designers take their careers to the next level. Named one CBS’s “Best Fashion Week Events” in 2012 and 2013, this is the perfect show to spot the next big designer as they strive to hit it big.

NOLCHA FASHION WEEK

FEBRUARY 11TH TO FEBRUARY 15TH

Nolcha Fashion Week is exclusively for independent designers to showcase their latest designs to a rapt audience of global press, retailers, stylists, and influencers. Over the past six years, this show for designers has been acclaimed by The New York Post, Forbes, and the BBC. Officially listed by The New York City Economic Development Corporation, this show is a hot incubator for future fashion superstars. Their February show features Charles & Ron, Danny Nguyen Courture, Katty Xiomara, and Preiston.

RALPH LAUREN

FEBRUARY 19TH AT MERCEDES-BENZ FASHION WEEK

LINCOLN CENTER

10 LINCOLN CENTER PLAZA

NEW YORK, NY 10023

Fashion Week concludes on February 19th with this iconic designer. For four decades, Ralph Lauren has been the pinnacle of the fashion world. Ralph Lauren became a legend of luxury through understated sophistication and prime attention to detail. He is the only designer to receive the Council of Fashion Designers of America’s four highest honors (The Lifetime Achievement Award, The Menswear Designer of the Year Award, The Womanswear Designer of the Year Award, and the CFDA’s Humanitarian Leadership Award). Visit this show to witness the latest from his iconic global lifestyle brand.