And, is there anywhere better to do this than the City that Never Sleeps?
One of the best parts about living in Westchester County is how close we are to all the magic of New York City — it’s less than an hour away!
So while this trip may only be a quick train ride or drive from home, it can feel like an entirely different world. With its iconic landmarks, unforgettable experiences, and endless energy, NYC offers the kind of getaway that stays with you.
This guide covers everything you need to plan your own memorable mom-and-daughter adventure in the city — whether it's for a special occasion or just because. Let’s get started.
Finding Your Perfect NYC Accommodation
You may not need a hotel — but booking one can elevate the experience, turning your quick trip into a real escape and giving you and your daughter the chance to fully unplug from the day-to-day.
Choosing the right hotel is the first crucial step to planning your getaway and, let’s face it, it can make or break your trip. You want to choose the right accommodation in the right location that offers the amenities you’ll need.
This can seem a bit daunting, especially if you haven’t been to New York before. But don’t worry, there are plenty of New York hotels to choose from and with our handy tips and advice, you’re sure to find the perfect place to stay with your daughter.
First, let’s talk about location. This can be key and set the entire tone of your trip. If this is your first trip to the Big Apple and you’re planning on seeing all the sights, you can’t do better than Midtown Manhattan. It’s within walking distance to all the main attractions and, for a central location, it boasts a wide range of accommodation to suit different budgets. However, be prepared for crowds as it’s very tourist-centric.
Try the Westin New York at Times Square for a combination of comfort and location. Or, if you’re more budget-conscious then check out Pod 51. The rooms are smaller but there's a great rooftop lounge.
If you’re looking for something that’s still close to the action but a little less touristy, try Soho. With cobblestone streets and a trendy vibe, you’ll definitely earn some “cool points” with your daughter. It’s a little further out, but well connected via the subway. For hotels consider The Bowery House or Soho Grand Hotel for a mix of historic luxury with modern design.
Another great choice is the Upper West Side. It offers a quiet retreat from the downtown hustle and has easy access to Central Park, the Lincoln Center, and the American Museum of Natural History. Both Hotel Belleclaire and The Milburn Hotel provide a great base to explore everything Manhattan has to offer.
Iconic New York Experiences
When you’re planning on what to do and see during your getaway, it’s all about balance. It’s unlikely you’ll be able to fit everything in on your list and you want to make sure you’ve factored in some downtime.
Sit down with your daughter before you go to decide on your top activities. This way you can book tickets in advance if necessary and you’ll include attractions that you both want to do.
If you’re unsure what to see, here are some of the top attractions you won’t want to miss:
Central Park: The ultimate urban oasis Central Park is the perfect place to escape from the crowds and reconnect with your daughter. Make sure to visit Bethesda Terrace and Fountain — and why not rent a row boat and head out onto the lake?
Museum of Modern Art (MoMA): A must for art lovers, you can immerse yourself in iconic works by Picasso, Warhol, and Van Gogh.
Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island: Is there anything more iconic than seeing Lady Liberty? You can also learn about the fascinating history of American immigration at the Ellis Island National Museum of Immigration. Just make sure you book your tickets in advance to avoid disappointment.
Broadway Shows: Another quintessential experience is attending a Broadway show. With classic shows like The Lion King and Wicked, you’re sure to be blown away by the sights and sounds of the theatre
Activities for Fun and Connection
It’s easy to get swept up in the hustle and bustle of the city and forget that the main goal of your trip is to spend quality time with your daughter. To avoid this happening, schedule some special experiences for the two of you to reconnect.
Afternoon Tea: A leisurely afternoon tea is the perfect setting for conversation, indulgence and a touch of elegance. For a truly grand experience head to The Palm Court at The Plaza or the Russian Tea Room for a more budget-conscious option.
Retail Therapy: New York is famous for its shopping so why not indulge in some retail therapy or even just some window shopping. Head to Fifth Avenue for Saks Fifth Avenue, Bergdorf Goodman, and Tiffany & Co. Or, Soho for high-end boutiques and popular high-street brands.
Spa Time: A great way to relax and unwind after a busy day of sightseeing is to head to a spa for a shared pampering experience. Just make sure to check the age restrictions as some spas are adults-only.
Guided Walks: Walking tours are a fantastic way to explore the city together. You can discover the history of specific neighborhoods or culinary delights with a food tour — there really is something for everyone. Just make sure you pack comfortable shoes and a stroller if you’re traveling with a baby.
Essential Tips
As with any trip a little preparation goes a long way in ensuring your mom and daughter getaway is the wonderful experience you want it to be.
- Safety First: Stick to well-lit streets at night and keep your valuables secure. New York is generally considered a safe city, but common sense and awareness are important.
- Book Ahead: This is key to ensure you don’t miss out on any of your top activities, especially if you have a specific Broadway show in mind.
- Consider Attraction Passes: These are a great way to keep costs down if you’re planning on visiting several of the major paid attractions.
- Use the Subway: The subway is the fastest and most efficient way to explore the city. Make sure to get a MetroCard before you ride or use OMNY.
Now you have everything you need to plan the perfect mom and daughter getaway to New York City. So, what are you waiting for? Get planning and make some memories together.