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New York is full of great food, stunning art, and, best of all, entertaining Broadway shows, all of which are the makings of a perfect birthday celebration. Here's how I maximized my Hilton Grand Vacations timeshare, scored face-value tickets for Hamilton on Broadway and planned the perfect NYC weekend trip for my birthday.
How to Get Broadway Tickets
I'm a frugal traveler, so I was excited when I got face-value tickets to see Hamilton on Broadway. It was easy enough — all I did was join the Hamilton Facebook page and registered on the official website.
There's rolling availability from the Richard Rodgers theater, and when the tickets become available for purchase, you'll receive notification by email. My tickets were for nine months in advance, so there was plenty of time to plan.
Tip: You must immediately purchase your tickets (up to four). If you do two separate transactions, as I did, you can purchase eight tickets.
How to Make the Most of Hilton Grand Vacations Timeshare
Because I had gotten my tickets so far in advance, I could reserve a stay at my favorite NYC resort— West 57th Street by Hilton Club. I contacted my friends who also own at West 57th Street to reserve their suites, too.
My friends have traveled with me to West 57th Street over the years, so much so that they now own timeshare there as well, and we continue to travel together often.
West 57th Street has a special place in my heart. I know most of the staff, and they have made an effort to know me, too. If you get the chance to stay at this centrally located NYC timeshare property, I highly recommend it.
Exciting News: The Central at 5th by Hilton Club
I attended an owner update and learned about The Central at 5th by Hilton Club, Hilton Grand Vacations' newest New York City timeshare. The 34-story tower is home to spacious accommodations in a mix of studios, 1-bedroom suites and penthouses. The property also includes an Owner's lounge equipped with an outside terrace exclusively for The Central at 5th Owners.
The Central at 5th is opening in the summer of 2021, and I can't wait. It will be closer to Radio Center Music Hall and Times Square, so, another unbeatable location to enjoy all NYC offers.
Where to Eat in NYC for a Birthday Dinner
One of our good friends introduced us to Trattoria Dell’Arte New York. The Chicken Parmesan and meatballs were fantastic, but the bottomless champagne cocktails were the biggest hit with our group.
Hamilton: A Show Worth Waiting For
We had Saturday night tickets to Hamilton, which was well worth the nine-month wait. The show was fabulous from beginning to end! We had taken the advice of others and listened to the music beforehand. It heightened our enjoyment of the show rather than spoiling the experience.
All in all, it was another perfect New York City weekend trip with friends. But this time, it was extra special to celebrate a birthday and catch a Broadway show.
Read the Top 5 Spots in New York City for more Big Apple vacation inspiration.