The Perfect Pride Weekend in New York City

All photos courtesy of NYC Pride unless otherwise noted.

New York City has established itself as the foundation where the fight for LBGT rights first (officially) started with the 1969 Stonewall Riots. Over 40 years later, NYC offers one of the most vibrant Pride weekends in the country. Celebrations take place throughout the month, but culminate with a city-wide celebration during the weekend of June 24 for non-stop fun, love, and acceptance. Let Amtrak take you to this year's celebrations. Available routes include: Acela, Northeast Regional, Keystone and 11 others!

STAY: Depending on your weekend ahead, we recommend staying at: The W Hotel in Union Square for a downtown atmosphere with specatular views, The New York Edition if you're looking to stay close to the parade route, or The Jane Hotel for a classic New York experience. Looking to stay further downtown? Try NOMO SOHO or head to Brooklyn and stay at The Wythe Hotel.

Photo courtesy of Google images

Friday, June 24

4 PM - NYC's shopping is some of the best in the world. Check out Chelsea Market for a series of culinary expereiences plus great shopping paired with must-see decor.

Photo courtesy of Chelsea Market

6 PM - Might we suggest a welcome-stroll through the city? Depart Chelsea Market on the west side and head straight up to New York's favorite new park; The Highline. Beautiful views and popsicles, you can't go wrong.

Photo courtesy of The Highline

6 PM - Head to dinner in Chelsea before our next stop, The Rally. Some recommended Chelsea dinners? The Tipsy Parson for Southern eats. Cookshop NYC, a gay New York staple, Blossom for a vegetarian dish, or Fonda for out-of-this-world mexican cuisine. Plentiful dessert options include: Billy's Bakery or the new-to-Chelsea, Milk Bar.

7 PM - Kick off NYC's Pride weekend at The Rally. Congregate with thousands of LGBTs and allies at Pier 26 in Hudson River Park for food, drinks, and vibrant celebrations.

9 PM - Catch late night bites in the West Village (the epicenter of gay history in NYC). You'll be craving something quick and easy before you head to other events, so hit up Otto's Tacos for delicious Mexican fare or Joe's Pizza for one of the best slices in the city.

10 PM - Hop on an uptown train to Fantasy at the Diamond Horseshoe. This burlesque-themed party offers some of the best dancing, sound, and lights you can find.

Saturday, June 25

10 AM - You're definitely going to be hungry when you wake up! Go to Rosemary's for a more refined, Italian brunch (with focaccia bread that is unholy) or to Hudson Diner for those old-school diner dishes (omelettes, pancakes, you know).

12 PM - Meander from the West Village up the West Side Highway to the many piers off Christopher Street. Sunbathe, lounge, picnic on the lawns, and chat up some cute guys. Everyone tends to be extra friendly during Pride.

Photo courtesy of Jesse Steinbach/Instagram

1 PM - Head to Hells Kitchen for brunch. Try HK for pre-party drinks (Note: HK is cash only for brunch) or Anejo, Top Chef Angelo Sosa's wildly popular Mexican restaurant & tequila bar.

2 PM - Snatch a ticket to the VIP Rooftop Party on Hudson Terrace for supreme drinks and beats overlooking Manhattan. There will be three levels and three DJs!

4 PM - Might we suggest some NYC shopping? Stop by Hotoveli for one-of-a-kind pieces or Bookmarc NY, Marc Jacobs' very own curated book store.

Photo courtesy of Google images

6 PM - Westville Chelsea is centrally located and is always a crowd-pleaser. Choose one main and two sides, four sides, or the delectable turkey burger. You really can't go wrong. Their frozen drinks are also a refreshing Pride staple.

Photo courtesy of Westville/Instagram

7 PM - Ladies, checkout Teaze for a female-centered party on the pier. Gents, stroll to WE Party: Graffiti for thundering sound and lasers at 10 PM.

1 AM - If you still have energy, roam the West Village and visit some classic watering holes, like Stonewall or Julius' (the oldest gay bar in the city!).

Sunday, June 26

11 AM - Dare we say you'll want something carb heavy to kick off your Sunday? Treat yourself at Murray's Bagels.

Photo courtesy of Murray's Bagels/Twitter

12 PM - It's time for the March! If you want to see all of the parade, walk alongside it beginning at 36th Street. If you'd rather stay more downtown, start around 18th Street and meet your friends to celebrate at Chrstiopher and Greenwich Streets.

3 PM - Close out the weekend's festivities with the Dance on the Pier. It's the culminating event of the weekend that finishes off NYC Pride with a bang.

4 PM - Looking for a take-away from your NYC trip? Stop by Odin for designer pieces or Rebel Rebel for amazing music recomendations (tell 'em we sent you!)

Photo courtesy of Google images

5 PM - Before heading out, stop by Juniper Bar for a bite to eat, before heading home on Amtrak (catch the train from Penn Station).

Photo courtesy of Juniper Bar NYC

For easy travel options and more information on Amtrak's routes, visit Amtrak.com to see where the train can take you!