Concert Travel Diaries: Zayn Edition
The Show: Zayn Edition
This was a show I never truly thought would happen. Like many “mature” fans who discovered Zayn Malik through TikTok and quarantine, I quickly grew to appreciate the depth and individuality of all five former One Direction members. Zayn, in particular, has often chosen a quieter life away from the spotlight, so the idea of a full tour once felt unlikely.
When he announced a tour for Room Under the Stairs, it became a can’t-miss moment. Hearing his vocals live is an exercise in restraint and control — precise, emotional, and effortless. The setlist spanned his solo catalog, and while there were no One Direction songs, the focus stayed exactly where it should: on the music he’s making now. Paired with the intimacy of the venue and understated lighting and staging, it was the perfect setting to experience this show, and one I’m genuinely grateful to have witnessed live. Zayn concluded the night with a tribute to his former bandmate, the late Liam Payne, performing one of my favorites, “Stardust.”
Getting to New York
Traveling from Boston to New York is a breeze. My favorite way to access the city is by train. There’s something nostalgic about it, and both the Amtrak Acela and Northeast Regional will get you there in under five hours, dropping you right at Moynihan Train Hall.
If flying is more your thing, hundreds of daily flights depart daily from Logan to all three New York airports. For ease of travel, LaGuardia Airport is usually the simplest, but all three offer access to Manhattan. Driving is always an option too — just remember most New York hotels charge upward of $100 a night for parking.
Getting to Hammerstein Ballroom
Staying at the Renaissance New York Midtown makes getting to Hammerstein Ballroom easy. It’s a straightforward walk, or a quick subway hop from Herald Square, which is ideal after a late show.
Hammerstein is easily accessible from anywhere in the city. Take the A, C, or E train one stop downtown to 34 St–Penn Station, then it’s a short walk from there.
Inside the Venue: Hammerstein Ballroom
The venue has two levels for viewing. Honestly, there isn’t a bad spot in the house. The main floor is general admission, while the upper level offers seated and standing options. I stood toward the back near the soundboard, where the acoustics were excellent and the sightlines still strong.
Merch was set up in several locations, with the main table immediately inside the entrance. It was chaotic, so if you have your eye on a specific item, get in line early. A second merch table was located downstairs near the restrooms, though with fewer options. Concessions are limited to drinks and packaged snacks, so plan to eat before arriving.
Where to Stay: Renaissance New York Midtown
This was a perfect home base for exploring Midtown. It’s walkable from Moynihan Train Hall, even if you’re a chronic overpacker hauling a roller bag for two nights. From there, Midtown really is your oyster — Times Square, the Empire State Building, and even the Met are all within reach.
The lobby bar has immaculate vibes, many rooms have views of Madison Square Garden (also known as Harry’s House), and the hotel sits close to the E and F trains for easy travel around the city.
Side Trek: Walk from the Met to Times Square
Are you a crazy person? You might be thinking that for suggesting this walk in January. But the crisp, clean air, paired with classic New York sounds and people, makes it worth it. You get the calm of the park and the chaos of the city in one stretch, crossing paths with horse-drawn carriages, a lone saxophone player, and in my case, a wedding party stopping for photos. In New York, there’s always something to see, and this stroll is no exception.
Where to Eat: Tír na Nóg
Where to Eat: Tick Tock Diner NY
Open 24 hours, Tick Tock Diner is surprisingly delicious. There’s no better way to end a concert night than a stack of chocolate chip pancakes, greasy bacon, and a crisp grapefruit mimosa.
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