A gold standard in the farm-to-table fine-dining scene for more than 25 years, Jean-Georges serves stylish seasonal plates in a luxurious midtown Manhattan dining room with floor-to-ceiling windows offering views of Central Park. The two-Michelin-starred restaurant blends French, American and Asian flavors in six- and 10-course tasting menus, making it the perfect pick for a special occasion.
1 Central Park West, New York, NY 10023
Jean-Georges in New York City
Why Go
Chef Jean-Georges Vongerichten’s flavorful fusion cuisine is inspired by his travels, and the tasting menus at his eponymous restaurant combine this global influence with a focus on local ingredients. The magic of this eatery is the ever-changing selection of plates — showcasing sustainable, organic products from local farms, fisheries, breweries and other makers — curated according to what’s in season. Be ready to be surprised and delighted by what might appear from the kitchen.
What to Order
Be sure to make a reservation well in advance — tables book quickly for this bucket-list-worthy dining experience.
Details
Pisa, Italy
The city of Pisa has been an important metropolis since Roman times. Now, visitors flock here to catch a glimpse of the world-famous Leaning Tower of Pisa. Despite the tilt, which grew to 5.5 degrees in 1990, the tower has survived at least four major earthquakes since 1280. Extensive work to stabilize the structure closed the site temporarily, but you can now climb the stairs inside the marble tower to hear the ringing of the ancient bells as you gaze out over the picturesque town square. Four monuments — the tower, the cathedral, the baptistry and the cemetery — make up the Piazza del Duomo, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Inside the beautifully ornate cathedral, you’ll find the Campo Santo cemetery. It’s home to archaeological treasures and artwork from Roman and medieval times. Pisa is also the birthplace of scientist Galileo Galilei, and you can follow in his historic, scholarly footsteps at the University of Pisa, founded in 1343. Step back in time even further at San Paolo a Ripa d’Arno, one of Pisa’s oldest churches. And for a traditional Italian espresso and pastry to fuel your wanders, visit Caffè dell’Ussero, which dates to the 1700s. Ready to immerse yourself in even more Italian splendor? About a 90-minute drive from Pisa is Florence, home to artistic marvels sure to inspire any history buff. Here, you’ll find the sculpture “David” by Renaissance artist Michelangelo at the Accademia Gallery and the Ponte Vecchio, a medieval shop-lined bridge that’s perfect for admiring a gorgeous sunset.
Set into the scenic hills of the Italian countryside, picturesque Borgo alle Vigne offers incredible views and luxurious accommodations. Choose from 1-, 2- and 3-Bedroom Suites with terraces to take in the panoramas outside.
Borgo alle Vigne, a Hilton Grand Vacations Club
Admire the one-of-a-kind Leaning Tower of Pisa
Climb the iconic Leaning Tower of Pisa
Off the Beaten Track
Must-See Attractions
See Michelangelo’s “David” at the Accademia Gallery
Where to Stay
Visit San Paolo a Ripa d’Arno, one of Pisa’s oldest churches
Order an espresso at Caffè dell’Ussero
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Stroll Through the Past
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Federico Epis
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Bridgetown, Barbados
Dive beneath Barbados’ beautiful Caribbean beaches, bustling cruise ports and delicious rum to discover its rich and fascinating history. Bridgetown, the country’s capital, was founded in 1628, and the historic old town and colonial-era British garrison make up a UNESCO World Heritage site. Learn more at the Gun Hill Signal Station, which once protected the island from attack. Barbados is one of the oldest continuing parliamentary democracies in the world. Visit the historic Parliament Buildings in Bridgetown and view the National Heroes Gallery, featuring sculptures crafted by local Barbadian and Caribbean artists. You can also walk around George Washington House & Museum, the reported vacation home of George Washington, the United States’ first president. The island was home to Arawak and Carib Indigenous peoples before colonization by the English in the 17th century, when Barbados became a leading producer of sugar in the Caribbean. You can learn about the country’s origins and how it gained independence from Britain in 1966 at the Barbados Museum & Historical Society. For a spectacular panoramic view of the tropical island’s ocean scenery, tour St. John’s Parish Church. The church was originally built in 1645 and was destroyed several times by fires and hurricanes before undergoing restoration in 1836. And of course, no trip to Barbados would be complete without sampling some of the local specialty rum. The St. Nicholas Abbey rum distillery is located in one of the only remaining Jacobean-style mansions in the Western Hemisphere, dating back to the 1600s. You can visit the house and museum before having a tipple — and maybe grab a bottle of personalized blended rum to bring home. Finally, visit the Foursquare Rum Distillery and warehouse to learn how rum is made, stored and blended before being bottled.
Located in St. Philip, The Crane is the oldest continuously operating resort in the Caribbean (since 1887). Your Studio, 1-, 2- or 3-Bedroom Suite will feature a timeless, four-poster bed, as well as modern marble accents. Explore the property’s beach, viewing decks and cliff-top pool overlooking the stunning blue sea.
The Crane, a Hilton Grand Vacations Club
See British colonial architecture at the military garrison
Sample local rum at St. Nicholas Abbey
Learn about the country’s history at the Barbados Museum & Historical Society
Take in the ocean view at St. John’s Parish Church
Step back in time with colonial-era reenactments in Bridgetown
Cairngorms, Scotland
Whether your interest lies in stately homes, medieval castles or traditional whisky distilleries, you’ll find it all in Scotland. The rugged hills of the Scottish Highlands’ exquisite Cairngorms National Park make a stunning base for exploring the historic sites around the region (read more in our Summer 2022 issue of Club Traveler). In fact, it’s estimated that there were once around 3,000 castles in Scotland. Within the national park, you can visit the grounds and gardens of Balmoral Castle, the British royal family’s Scottish retreat. The impressive estate was a favorite of both Queen Victoria in the 1800s and of the United Kingdom’s longest-reigning monarch, Queen Elizabeth II. This fall, floral tributes to the latter adorned the gates, where visitors left tokens to commemorate her 70 years on the throne. Head south to Stirling Castle — once the childhood home of Mary Queen of Scots, who was crowned here in 1543. The medieval site is an immersive lesson about the tumultuous lives of the Stewart kings and queens. Actors dressed in period costumes play the parts of several castle roles including bodyguards, maids of honor and servants to give visitors a glimpse into 16th-century life. Make your way to Inverness on the northeast coast to learn more about the Jacobite uprising — where Scottish lairds made a final stand against the ruling English military — and visit the site of the climactic 1746 Battle of Culloden. You’ll find commemorative standing stones and grave markers at this National Trust for Scotland site. To toast to your Scottish adventure, visit The Glenturret Distillery, which dates back to 1763. The brand’s single malt whiskies include varieties highlighting the region’s traditional earthy peat flavors, as well as bottles aged in American and European oak barrels that conjure notes of vanilla and caramel.
Step into royal life at Stirling Castle
See royal residence Balmoral Castle Visit the site of the Battle of Culloden
Live like royalty in Craigendarroch Suites, itself a Victorian-era country house. You can explore the property’s scenic grounds, pool and spa, and sports facilities. Select rooms even feature your own fireplace to truly embrace the rustic coziness of the Scottish Highlands.
Craigendarroch Suites, a Hilton Grand Vacations Club
Try single malt whisky at The Glenturret Distillery
Explore the royal residence of Balmoral Castle in Scotland
Peruse local crafts at Charleston City Market Explore the Charleston Tea Garden
Take in downtown Charleston’s picturesque architecture
Steeped in history, this property is located near the Liberty Tree, where the Declaration of Independence was first read to Charleston’s citizens. Wander the surrounding cobblestone streets to see the colorful row houses before returning to your Studio, 1- or 2-Bedroom Suite — and select accommodations also feature private balconies. (Planning Note: Make sure to book early to secure your preferred dates.)
Liberty Place Charleston, a Hilton Club
Charleston, South Carolina
In Charleston, you’ll find American history at every turn. The city is the site of the very first shot fired in the American Civil War, and the neo-classical architecture of the time is reflected throughout the charming streets. Get your bearings by taking a tour with Old South Carriage Company. Your guide will regale you with facts about the downtown district before visiting Fort Sumter in Charleston Harbor, a Civil War monument marking the start of the four-year conflict that forever shaped the history of the United States. Historic landmarks dot this Southern gem — including the more than 200-year-old Dock Street Theatre and artisan Charleston City Market. To spend an afternoon enjoying the outdoors, visit the Charleston Tea Garden. Ride the trolley for a scenic tour passing majestic magnolia trees and acres of tea bushes before stopping at the tea bar to sample the house brews — served hot or iced, depending on your preference. Charleston is the oldest city in South Carolina, and to explore the origins of this storied city, visit Charles Towne Landing State Historic Site. Just off the Ashley River, this is where European settlers landed in 1670. Walk the self-guided tour to learn about what this land looked like and the animals that inhabited it, before it was colonized. Scheduled to open this year, the International African American Museum will investigate the legacy of colonization and slavery through interactive digital exhibits and a thought-provoking memorial garden.
See where the American Civil War started at Fort Sumter
Wander the quaint downtown district of Charleston
Find your slice of paradise at one of Hilton Grand Vacations’ properties located near the beautiful Waikiki Beach. In addition to being close to the beach and next to multiple shops and restaurants, Hokulani Waikiki, a Hilton Grand Vacations Club offers a rooftop plunge pool, with cabanas for relaxing after a day of sun and sea. For those looking for a sophisticated retreat, relax in The Modern Honolulu’s adults-only pool or sip a glass of wine on your private terrace (select rooms only).
Book Chicago Magnificent Mile, a Hilton Grand Vacations Club to be immersed in the heart of Chicago, near Navy Pier, Millennium Park, Grant Park and the Chicago Theater. The property has a seasonal rooftop pool and year-round views of the skyscrapers and nearby historic architecture.
Also located in prestigious midtown Manhattan, you’ll find The Central at 5th, a Hilton Club and The Quin, a Hilton Club. The Central at 5th offers Studios, Suites and Penthouse just minutes from Rockefeller Center, Radio City Music Hall, the Museum of Modern Art and Times Square. Boutique-style The Quin boasts both incredible views of Central Park and a bespoke art collection chosen specifically for the property.
Visit Sedona Heritage Museum Take a ride on the Verde Canyon Railroad
Explore Tuzigoot National Monument Discover Montezuma Castle
Take in the beauty of Arizona’s red rock formations right from the Ridge on Sedona. You can explore the natural and ancient sites from your home away from home in one of the property’s Studios or 1- or 2-Bedroom Suites. To take your vacation to new levels, book a hot air balloon ride to see the resort and surrounding areas from above.
Ridge on Sedona, a Hilton Vacation Club
Sedona, Arizona
Among the red rock buttes and desert landscapes, experience Sedona’s ancient history. Spot the petroglyphs on rock walls that tell the stories of the Sinagua people (meaning “without water”) who lived here centuries before Spanish settlers arrived. Learn more about their daily lives at the Tuzigoot National Monument, which includes a 1,000-year-old ancient pueblo (village), featuring 110 rooms. Walking trails lead you around the pueblo with glorious views of the Tavasci Marsh and Verde River. Don’t miss the displays at the park’s visitor center, which houses authentic textiles, tools and ceramics. Dramatically set into the surrounding cliffside, Montezuma Castle is one of the best-preserved ancient sites in Sedona. Although the name brings to mind a royal setting, this 20-room structure was home to multiple families and functioned more like a modern apartment building than a traditional castle. To take in more cliff homes, head north to the Palatki Heritage Site, the largest of its kind in Red Rock Country. You can also find out more about Sedona’s pioneers at the Sedona Heritage Museum. Visit the museum’s replica telegraph office, originally a railroad depot but later turned into a filming set for classic western films in the 1940s and 1950s. Finish your tour of the area onboard the Verde Canyon Railroad. The four-hour journey begins with a champagne toast and includes a soundtrack of classic railroad tunes to enjoy as you view the scenery from the vintage train car’s panoramic windows.
Discover the ancient cliffside Montezuma Castle in the Arizona desert
Williamsburg, Virginia
The signature tasting menu at Jean-Georges includes unique dishes showcasing seasonal products
History enthusiasts will find plenty to peruse in Williamsburg. Home to eight former presidents’ estates and colonial sites, this city is a living museum. This is especially true across the 301 acres of Colonial Williamsburg, where you can wander around dozens of original buildings, shops and museums like the Abby Aldrich Rockefeller Folk Art Museum, which features one of the world’s largest folk art collections. Next, visit the Governor’s Palace, once home to Thomas Jefferson. There you’ll encounter people dressed in traditional costumes representing real historical figures who lived centuries ago, known as “Nation Builders.” For those looking to experience justice in the 18th century, head to the Courthouse and learn about the political debates that took place at Raleigh Tavern. While in the area stop by the American Indian Encampment Site, where you’ll find programs dedicated to the history of Indigenous Americans who lived here before Europeans arrived. The initiative teaches visitors about the contributions of representatives sent by Indian nations to Williamsburg, as well as the continuing legacy of colonialism in modern society. To trace the origins of early English settlers, visit Historic Jamestowne where you will see the original Jamestown fort and marvel at archaeological finds. Continue onto the Jamestown Settlement to see the recreated Indigenous American town, followed by a stop at Tercentennial Monument for a historic walking tour of the colony’s evolution. Finally, picnic on the beach of First Landing State Park and explore the waterways once traversed by Native American Indian canoes and the spot where British colonists arrived in 1607. And for stories of seafarers from long ago, explore one of the largest maritime collections in the world at The Mariners’ Museum and Park.
Visit Mariners’ Museum and Park Wander First Landing State Park
Step back in time at Colonial Williamsburg Explore Historic Jamestown
Perfect for launching a historic exploration of Williamsburg, The Historic Powhatan offers 1-, 2- or 4-Bedroom Suites with access to the property's indoor and outdoor pools, hot tubs and sport facilities, including racquetball and tennis courts. Enjoy wanders in the property’s gardens or even sneak in a bit of fishing at the catch-and-release pond.
The Historic Powhatan, a Hilton Vacation Club
Immerse in the historical reenactments of Colonial Williamsburg
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