New York Holiday Rentals

It's hard to imagine the city that never sleeps as a small-time fur-trading outpost, but the glittering lights of the New York skyline were once nothing but twinkling stars above the small Dutch settlement of New Amsterdam. It wasn't until British rule that the area began to prosper, with its tranquil setting on the Hudson River shaping its fortune as a major port. This rapid development encouraged the arrival of people from around the globe, resulting in a multicultural melting pot that fostered the state's now world-renowned cultural scene. This fascinating history and flourishing artistry is still on full display, with holiday rentals in New York placing the heritage highlights right on your doorstep.

Holiday homes, New York – Settling down in the Big Apple

Space is at a premium in the sprawling centre of New York City, and many of its districts have seen a construction boom in recent years. Spacious studios and lavish penthouses have popped up throughout the 5 boroughs, providing home comforts, modern amenities and fantastic locations for your American getaway. In an apartment in NYC you can stretch your budget with home-cooked meals, made easy by the well-equipped kitchens that are standard across most properties, while patios and balconies present unmissable vistas of the city's iconic skyline. Winters can get a little chilly, so central heating is a plus during the festive season; conversely, as the mercury rises during the sultry summer months, so too does demand for air-conditioned properties.

Family get-togethers may require a little more space, so why not consider holiday homes in New York's stunning Staten Island? Guests here can enjoy some time away from the hustle and bustle of the city, as well as increased privacy and additional breathing room – some properties even have gardens for alfresco dining. The artsy Bronx neighbourhood boasts a collection of gorgeous townhouses, with tasteful furnishings and stylish décor, while the glamorous suites of Manhattan offer a tantalising taste of the high life, and many include fitness centres and on-site restaurants. For a completely different viewpoint on New York, you could also head upstate, with Expedia's bargains around Niagara Falls opening up the region's natural wonders.

New York's scenic surprises

After settling into your holiday rental, New York is yours to discover, and there's no bad place to start. While most people associate the city with soaring skyscrapers and contemporary constructions, there are a number of historic homes found just a subway ride away from the centre, most notably the Bartow-Pell Mansion Museum. First established in 1654, the home was converted to its current Grecian style in 1836 by wealthy local Robert Bartow. The resplendent Greek Revival interiors have been expertly preserved, as have original furnishings and many works of art from the former owner's collection. You can explore the house at your own pace or on a docent-led tour, and rotating exhibits and a busy calendar of classes and activities keep things fresh for return visits. On sunny days, the gardens are a picturesque spot for an afternoon stroll.

After discovering the state's built heritage, you should take some time for a rejuvenating walk through the grounds of the New York Botanical Garden. This National Historic Landmark showcases a staggering range of flora from across the globe, and it also carries out fascinating research and conservation projects. Conservatories house everything from desert cacti to aquatic and carnivorous plants, while the seasonal walks are designed to illustrate the yearly cycle of birth and renewal. The 4 distinct rooms of the perennial garden are joined by flower-lined paths, each one themed around a different colour; the seasonal shifts in their displays have been carefully planned to encourage return visits.