Best NYC Staycations For Labor Day Weekend 2017

Labor Day isn’t supposed to be a pain in the ass.

But it is. Between the planning, the packing and — Judas Priest — the traffic, it’s a schlep.

The secret to a saner, happier, more relaxing Labor Day? Staying right where you are.

So we’ve rounded up 10 NYC overnighters worth sticking around for, from a hotel that’ll teach you how to surf to a new Bali-inspired pool club with best-in-class views of Manhattan.

The James Hotel
Soho
Who doesn’t want to wake up in Soho and people watch out of two-story glass windows? Head downstairs to Balthazar Bakery and snag a cup of La Colombe coffee every morning. After that, it’s off to The MoMA, Whitney or Guggenheim — price of entry included if you book through our friends at Surface.
Where to eat: Mas Farmhouse
What to do: The Magician at their sister locale NoMad

Sixty Soho
Soho
It’s like a visit to London without the jetlag. And you’ll be dining at Sessanta, helmed by chef Jordan Frosolone, on some serious Sicilian eats. Beach body, be gone!
Where to eat: Ms. Yoo
What to do: Soho Cigar Bar

1 Central Park
Midtown
The boho-meets-luxury locale is integrated with hemp mattresses, water filters and terraria galore. It’s farm-to-table living with access to a Tesla, rather than a Ferrari, for a spin about town.
Where to eat: Blue Ribbon Sushi Bar & Grill
What to do: Drinks at Oscar Wilde

The Surrey
Upper East Side
The only Relais & Châteaux hotel in the city, the Surrey is a one-way transportation to another time and place altogether. Hand-painted armoires? Check. Oversized desks with vanities atop plush paisley carpet? Check. Plus, fireplaces and terraces galore. And you’ll be dining in Cafe Boulud—is, a la Daniel Boulud, before heading to Bar Pleiades for a nightcap.
Where to eat: Mifune
What to do: The Frick Collection

1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge
Dumbo
We’re going to keep this simple. Do yourself a favor and book a weeked at the 1 Hotel. It’s magnificent in every possible way, from views to eats to ambience. No doubt the MVP of newcomers to the city, it’s across the river in a neighborhood (Dumbo) worth exploring, and they have loads of special offers in case our vouching wasn’t quite enough.
Where to eat: Cecconi’s
What to do: A visit to Circa Brewery

Conrad New York
Downtown
Hello, Summer in the City package. You’re going to learn how to sail and go for a bike ride. Beyond the indulgent accommodations, the package includes a private two-hour sailing lesson around the tip of Manhattan and unlimited Citi Bike access. Winning on all accounts.
Where to eat: Vida Verde
What to do: A vintage carousel ride

11 Howard
Soho
Never has there been a better, or more luxurious, way to learn to surf. The Surf & Stay package with Saturdays NYC and Locals Surf School means getting up on a board at the Rockaways whether you thought you could or not. And while you’re there, you can also test out their new HigherDOSE infared saunas to unwind.
Where to eat: Le Coucou
What to do: Judd Foundation or go wild at The Blond (better know someone though)

Hyatt House New York
Chelsea
We don’t know where you live, but if it doesn’t include floor-to-ceiling windows, custom furniture, spacious kitchens, a rooftop gym and sweeping skyline views — well — you’re in for a real treat.
Where to eat: Sen Sakana
What to do: Drinks at The Pool

Profundo
Long Island City
Quite possibly your new NYC home away from home. While it’s not a staycation proper, the owners of Hotel Chantelle and Penthouse808 have opened an oasis just a stone’s throw from Manhattan. You’re in for one LIC 50 ft. x 20 ft. pool surrounded by Bali-inspired daybeds and cabanas, where you’re welcome to enjoy unobstructed sunlight and unparalleled city views while guest DJs spin in the background. Daypasses start at just $50, unless you’re down for a proper cabana … which you should be. You should be very down.
Where to eat: The pool club
What to do: Swim in the pool. This should be obvious.

Life Hotel
Nomad
LIFE magazine is now a hotel. You gonna argue with that pedigree?
Where to eat: Jean-Georges. Call ahead … way ahead.
What to do: Paradiso Escape Room