Looking for the right time to visit New York City, but hoping to skip the typical Big Apple tourist scene in favor of a more local experience? The Governors Ball Music Festival is right around the corner, and might have exactly what you're looking for.
Started by local music lovers eight years ago, it features 60-plus artists of all genres, plus a selection of the best eats in town, street artists from around the city, interactive games and activities, and more. What better way to experience the music, art and culture at the heart of NYC?
Fortunately, there are plenty of relatively inexpensive flights between Houston and New York City on travel site Skyscanner.
Here’s a list of flights, hotels, restaurants and local attractions in New York City to round out your trip. (Prices and availability are current as of publication and subject to change.)
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Cheapest New York City flights
The cheapest flights between Houston and New York City are if you leave on May 29 and return from New York on June 2. American Airlines currently has tickets for $258, roundtrip.
There are also deals to be had later in May. If you fly out of Houston on May 31 and return from New York City on June 3, Spirit Airlines can get you there and back for $262 roundtrip.
Top New York City accommodations
To plan your stay, here are two of New York City’s top-rated hotels, according to Skyscanner, that we selected based on price, proximity to things to do and customer satisfaction.
The Standard, High Line (848 Washington St.)
If you're looking to treat yourself, consider The Standard, High Line. The hotel has a 4.4-star rating on Skyscanner, and rooms are currently available for $275.
All 338 rooms at The Standard, High Line have ground-to-ceiling windows with spectacular views. It is within close proximity to the west side highway, Javits Center, SoHo and the Financial District.
The Dream Downtown (355 W. 16th St.)
There's also the 4.5-star rated The Dream Downtown. Rooms are currently set at $204/night.
Situated between the thriving Meatpacking District and Chelsea, the Dream Downtown is the latest addition to the Vikram Chatwal Hotel portfolio. This luxury property features 315 loft-inspired rooms and a rooftop lounge with city views.
Top picks for dining and drinking
New York City has plenty of topnotch dining options. Here are a few of the most popular, according to Skyscanner.
Levain Bakery (167 W. 74th St.)
Let's start with the essentials: dessert. For a popular option, check out Levain Bakery, which has an average of 4.8 stars out of 42 reviews on Skyscanner.
From the beginning, Levain Bakery has been a comfortable and inviting presence in its Upper West Side neighborhood where it boasts a steady stream of community regulars and tourists loyal to its diverse assortment of freshly baked products. The menu includes an inventive array of rustic breads and other equally creative takes on traditional baked goods.
Red Rooster (310 Lenox Ave.)
One of New York City's most popular restaurants is Red Rooster, with 4.5 stars from 56 reviews.
The Red Rooster is part of the vibrant Harlem community. The menu reflects the roots of American cuisine while celebrating local farmers and artisanal food makers. The Red Rooster features a takeout market, bar and restaurant.
"I am writing this at home after one of the most amazing meals I've ever had," wrote reviewer John349. "I cannot say enough how absolutely delicious every meal that was ordered at our table was."
The Meatball Shop (84 Stanton St.)
Also worth considering is The Meatball Shop.
"These are the best meatballs I have ever had," wrote ABelle.
Top New York City attractions
New York City is also full of sites to visit and explore. Here are a couple of popular attractions to round out your trip, again from Skyscanner's listings.
The Brooklyn Bridge Park (334 Furman St.)
First up is The Brooklyn Bridge Park.
Located in the heart of New York City, Brooklyn Bridge Park is a great opportunity for tourists and residents to visit. This park is located beside the Brooklyn Bridge, considered one of the portals into the city. Although the park itself is simple, it also offers an amazing view of the entire city.
"The walk across the Brooklyn Bridge, whether you're walking from Brooklyn to Manhattan or vice versa, is one of the most iconic walks New York City has to offer," wrote visitor Gary.
The Statue of Liberty
Lastly, spend some time at The Statue of Liberty.
Lady Liberty has welcomed the grandparents and great-grandparents of many Americans. A symbol of the country's possibilities, the Statue of Liberty National Monument includes nearby Ellis Island, where many European immigrants started on their journey of becoming Americans.
This story was created automatically using flight, hotel, and local attractions data, then reviewed by an editor. Click here for more about what we're doing. Got thoughts? Go here to share your feedback.
