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Visiting for the NYC Marathon

The New York City marathon is one of the most popular events in the city, and millions of people flock to the Big Apple every year to cheer on the runners and be in the middle of the action. The 26.2 mile course winds through every borough and ends up in the famed Central Park, where runners are met with a roar of cheers in true New York spirit. Plan your New York City trip carefully to enjoy the best of what the city has to offer.

Where to Stay for the New York City Marathon

Since the marathon snakes through all five boroughs, there is a range of choice when it comes to lodging. One of the best places to be, however, is in Midtown Manhattan. The Shoreham Hotel is one of the most sought out properties in the city due to its upscale accommodations and proximity to attractions. The Shoreham is steps from the famed Fifth Avenue shopping district, Rockefeller Center, Lincoln Center and a roughly 10 minute walk to Central Park. A quick train ride will take you to the lights and sounds of Times Square and the Broadway theater district.

The Shoreham Hotel has enjoyed high praise as one of the most sought after boutique hotels in the city. Known for its "hip and cool" vibe, the Shoreham features a blend of design and luxury. Guests are treated to Belgian linens, hydro-massage showers and wireless Internet access. The hotel's impeccable attention to design delivers a minimalist vibe, reminiscent of a high-end spa. With ultra-comfortable beds, stunning views and well-appointed suites, the Shoreham delivers luxury and convenience.

Fans of Carnegie Hall often choose the Shoreham and walk to performances by world-renowned artists. Fashion lovers enjoy being just steps from Saks Fifth Avenue, Bloomingdales and Tiffany's. When choosing where to stay for the NYC marathon, the Shoreham is a must-visit.

What to Do in New York City

There is so much to see and do in Manhattan that you'll probably want to book a return trip. Take the New York City Subway, an attraction in itself a little farther uptown and visit the famed "Museum Mile," home of the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Guggenheim, the Museum for African Art and the Museum of the City of New York, to name a few. Traveling with the family? The Museum of Natural History is a not-to-be missed attraction. Make a stop at the historic Grand Central Terminal and take trip back in time. Admire the breathtaking painted constellation that lines the ceiling, complete with twinkling "stars," or visit the Transit Museum for an inside look at the New York City subway's history and future.

One of the best things about visiting New York for the annual marathon is that you will enjoy Central Park at the tail end of fall foliage season, when the leaves are at their peak color. Enjoy a stroll through the park while being awash in deep reds, yellows and oranges. On marathon day, there will plenty to see and do while you wait for the runners to sprint by. Make a sign and cheer on the runners or participate in one of the many post-race parties at nearby bars and eateries.

Where to Eat

When it comes to visiting NYC, there are a few standby favorites that you don't want to miss. A trip to Katz deli is a bucket list favorite. Enjoy an authentic New York slice of pizza, paired with a Coke. Stop by one of the many food trucks and sample dishes from around the globe. From lamb gyros to waffles to dumplings and even grilled cheese, you can find whatever tempts your taste buds on an NYC food truck. Did you know that New York City has more French restaurants than France? Because of the diversity of the city's residents, you can find any type of food you can imagine, from Thai to Vietnamese, Ghanaian to Brazilian. Enjoy a light lunch overlooking the lake at the Boathouse in Central Park, or head uptown for southern favorites at Red Rooster in Harlem. The possibilities are endless for the food lover who visits New York.

Attending the NYC Marathon

The marathon takes place during the first weekend in November, so expect chilly temperatures for your visit. Leave extra travel time to get to your destinations within the city, as streets are blocked off and are often packed with spectators. Use subways whenever possible and avoid cabs when traveling to the marathon. Many people visit the city from around the globe for this event, so the best lodging will fill up quickly. Many New Yorkers book hotels in Manhattan to be closer to the action, so act fast if you want to snag one of the more popular hotels. When planning where to stay for the NYC marathon, it pays to plan ahead.

While the NYC marathon is a destination and attraction there are an endless array of things to do when visiting this world class city. Book your trip today.