Where To Stay
A room at the vintage Park Plaza Hotel at 307 Park Avenue South puts you in the midst of shops, restaurants, attractions--and (unfortunately) occasional late-night train whistles. Try to get one on the Park Avenue side, unless you're a heavy sleeper. Weekend rates range $130-$250; www.parkplazahotel.com or 1-800-228-7220. The recently renovated Best Western Mt. Vernon Inn is seven blocks from Park Avenue, but it has a nice pool, a friendly staff, and rates starting at $90; 1-800-992-3379.

above: Park Plaza Hotel anchors a corner of Park Avenue, close to shops and restaurants downtown.