It’s Cold Outside: Plan a Mid-Winter Escape in Garden City
Transform your winter blues into a season of comfort and joy with a staycation in Garden City, a destination that combines sophistication, charm, and the best life has to offer. Known for its great shopping, top-tier restaurants, and rich history, this charming town is the perfect place to recharge and indulge.
Discover the Heart of Garden City: The Garden City Hotel
At the center of it all is the iconic Garden City Hotel, a symbol of luxury and sophistication for over 150 years. The hotel’s heated indoor pool offers warm relaxation no matter how cold it gets outside, making it an ideal winter retreat.
Start your adventure by checking into one of the hotel’s plush rooms, where timeless elegance meets modern comfort. Unwind with signature cocktails at the King Bar lounge before indulging in an unforgettable meal at the hotel’s Red Salt Room. Celebrity Chef David Burke’s creative menu features delights such as Himalayan Sea Salt dry-aged steaks and his famous “Candied Bacon on a Clothesline.” Cap off your evening with cocktails and dessert by the fire or enjoy s’mores in the main lounge before retreating to your luxurious room for a cozy winter’s nap.
The next morning, treat yourself to a leisurely breakfast, followed by rejuvenating treatments at the Red Hots Spa at the Garden City Hotel. From soothing massages to revitalizing facials, the spa will leave you refreshed and ready to embrace the rest of winter.
Venture into Garden City’s Culinary Scene
While the hotel offers everything you need for a luxurious stay, Garden City boasts a vibrant dining scene worth exploring. Here are a few standout options:
- WATERZOOIE: A lively Belgian bistro known for its mussels and impressive beer selection. Perfect for a relaxed lunch, dinner, or brunch with friends.
- BAR PLANCHA: A cozy tapas spot popular among meat lovers. Sit at the bar to watch the team prepare small plates packed with bold flavors.
- LA NONA BELLA: This bustling Italian eatery combines classic dishes with a modern twist, making it ideal for a romantic dinner. Be sure to book ahead for weekends!
Explore Garden City’s Rich History
One of America’s earliest planned villages, Garden City was designed with wide avenues, lush greenery, and a stunning 30-acre park featuring a handsome hotel—now The Garden City Hotel. Developed by A.T. Stewart, the town even had its own railroad line, the Central Railroad of Long Island.
For a deeper dive into Garden City’s fascinating past, visit the official Garden City Village History.
Don’t Miss the Cathedral of the Incarnation
The Cathedral of the Incarnation is a breathtaking example of Gothic Revival architecture. Visitors are welcome to explore its beauty, with guided tours available by appointment. To schedule a tour, email the cathedral at Cathedral@IncarnationGC.org.
A visit to the cathedral adds a rich historical and architectural dimension to your staycation, making your time in Garden City truly unforgettable.
Embrace Winter in Style
Whether you’re splashing in the pool, savoring world-class meals, or exploring the town’s vibrant dining and historical attractions, a staycation at The Garden City Hotel is the perfect way to banish the winter blues. Garden City’s unique blend of luxury, charm, and history ensures your mid-winter escape will be one to remember.
Family Fun Staycation
Make your winter break staycation a hit with the whole family! The Garden City Hotel isn’t just for grown-ups—it’s packed with options to keep little ones entertained while parents relax.
Splash and Play: Start your day with some poolside fun at the hotel’s indoor pool. Whether it’s a few laps for fitness or splashing around with the kids, the pool is a warm and inviting escape from the cold.
Nearby Adventures:
- Cradle of Aviation Museum (10-minute drive): Spark your children’s curiosity with interactive exhibits about the history of flight and space exploration.
- Eisenhower Park (5-minute drive): Bundle up for a refreshing walk or let the kids burn off some energy at one of the park’s playgrounds.
- Long Island Children’s Museum (15-minute drive): A hands-on museum where kids can play, learn, and explore.
Family Dining: Wrap up your day with a casual, kid-friendly meal at the King Bar, where even picky eaters will find something to love, or explore the following restaurants within walking distance from the hotel.
- LEO’S MIDWAY: A casual local favorite for burgers and pub fare in a lively setting.
- MESITA: A modern Mexican hotspot for tacos and margaritas. The fun atmosphere makes it a great choice for a night out.
- ORCHID: A Garden City institution since 1986, this restaurant is celebrated for its well-crafted Chinese dishes, available for dine-in or take-out.
Did you visit Nassau County, Long Island for a staycation? Share your pics with @VisitNassauCountyLI and be entered to win some Nassau County faves!


