We just returned from a weekend in NYC; we drove too and as shopping was a big part of the reason for our weekend trip, I am very very glad that we parked at the hotel; it was expensive, but worth it when it came time to carry those bags out of the hotel.

You will have plenty of time to get to the theatre dining at either Le Cirque or Le Bernardin. Le Bernardin is several blocks closer. Of the two, I would recommend Le Cirque just due to the "wow" factor in decor.

You can leave luggage at your hotel as soon as you get in to the city. Out of the three hotels you question (I have stayed in all) Parker Meridian is the best choice for the money. It's only a few blocks from the Drake and Plaza. Unless you can spring a park view suite at the Plaza (~$1000) you will be disappointed with your dark tiny room. The Drake is nice and small but Meridian has better service and the location on 57th is more easily accessible. There's nothing around the Drake except offices.

My favorite NY hotel is the Essex House, if you can afford those rates it is a wonderful hotel. For ~$300 you can get a nice room with a view of the park.

These hotels charge between $30 and $50 to park your car - you may end up paying that in parking and taxi anyway.

Finally made reservations at Le Parker Meridian. I got a park view room over the 26th floor (towers) for $210. The reservationist welcomed us to drop our luggage off as we arrive.

So, hotel, dinner and theatre is taken care of. Will probably do breakfast at Norma's or Bubby's (?)

Now, to decide what to wear...and hit Victoria's Secret for something special!

Thanks for all of your help!!
Pam

I'm curious if anyone besides me thinks it's sinful to make reservations one doesn't intend to keep? Am I just a pollyanna? Is that a common practice?

As long as you obey the cancellation policy, it's okay in my opinion. And certainly not "sinful." Hotels expect a certain percentage of cancellations (as do restaurants and airlines).

And, Yes, it's a very common practice, particularly in competitive markets (like Manhattan).

We returned back to reality Saturday afternoon. Had a great time - every thing went well.

The things I would do differently:

1) Would never accept tickets for the first row. By sitting in the first row (by the way, we paid the same as everyone else), we could not see half of the set and some scenes were lost. My husband, who is 6'4" couldn't even see unless the actors were in the front of the stage.
2) Parked our own car. The lot the hotel used was right next door. By using the valet, they charged a premium.
3)Would have stayed longer-too much to do, too little time.
4)Worn more comfortable shoes.We chose to walk the city!

Restuarant was great- we ate at La Bernardine (yes, I did cancel reservations at the other choices)They treated us to a special Anniversay Pastry with a candle and a very romantic table(that my husband misinterpretted as hiding us...such a romantic guy!)

Hotel was great (Parker Meridian) the location was perfect: half way between the museums and Times Square.

Anyway, thank you for all of your help. I believe researching and anticipating was half the fun!!

Pam