New York City is so exciting because there is always something new to do. You could live here your whole life and still not experience all the city has to offer. After living in New York for the past three years, I’ve discovered some of my favorite things to do on the weekend and to show my family and friends when they visit. Here are my top seven things to do in NYC!
The High Line and Chelsea Market
Whether you’re visiting New York or you live in New York, this is a great way to spend a weekend afternoon. Start off by walking down the High Line, which is a sort of city park and garden walkway engineered from former subway tracks. You’ll get views of the water along the scenic stroll and there are a variety of plants that line the walkway. There are plenty of chairs and benches to sit on, and many New Yorkers will lounge here on warm days.
Make your way down to 16th Street and then head to Chelsea Market for a meal. The food market offers a variety of eateries from seafood, Thai, French, and American to Italian, culinary fusion, specialty cheese and wine stands, and plenty of desserts. There is also a mini Brooklyn Flea store with vendors selling antiques and unique pieces of art, jewelry and clothing.
I always take visitors to the High Line and Chelsea Market and will even go here by myself when I have a free Saturday. Inside Chelsea Market, my go-to spots are the Lobster Place (I love the clam chowder soup or the crab cake sandwich) or Chelsea Thai (you can’t go wrong with their pad Thai). I can’t leave without getting two scoops of gelato from L’Arte del Gelato.
Central Park
While this isn’t the most unique suggestion, I think that a visit to Central Park always offers something new. It’s so easy to get lost that each time you visit you’ll see something new. I love taking a walk by the iconic Bethesda Fountain or savoring the quiet at Shakespeare’s Garden. It is also a great place to take photos and the park’s scenery changes dramatically based on the season.
Arthur Avenue in the Bronx
Since I attend college at Fordham University in the Bronx, I can’t talk about New York without mentioning this famous Italian street which makes the trip up to the Bronx well worthwhile. Lined with some of the best Italian restaurants and bakeries, be sure to come hungry. I’ve tried almost every restaurant on Arthur Avenue, but Fiasco is my favorite. I would eat at this restaurant everyday if I could afford it. For lunch, Tino’s Deli is my go-to spot where you can get paninis, salads, pastas, and pizzas. And for dessert, I love the raspberry jelly filled cookies and almond biscotti from Madonia Bakery. Whenever I visit my family, I always take home a box of treats from Madonia.
Brooklyn Bridge Park at Sunset
At least once a year, I grab a bunch of my friends and we all walk across the Brooklyn Bridge from Manhattan and watch the sunset from Brooklyn Bridge Park. The views of the skyline are incredible and the scenery of the pier adds to the photographic opportunities. It’s no wonder that you’ll probably run into people taking their wedding, engagement, graduation, or family photos here.
Two Hands Brunch in SoHo
Two Hands is one of my favorite brunch spots in the city. The atmosphere is very modern and bright and they have a great system where they text you when your table is ready so you can shop nearby while you wait since it's usually pretty crowded on the weekend. Everything on the menu is good, but the avocado toast and acai bowl are hands down the tastiest and most healthy brunch that I could imagine since I usually opt for eggs benedict or waffles at other establishments. Go here with a friend for an Instagram-worthy brunch and shopping day.
The MET
An insider tip for visiting the MET is that admission is pay what you wish despite the suggested donation fee. I love stopping in the museum for an hour or two to see a few exhibits without having the pressure to feel like I have to stay for hours to get my money’s worth. The costume exhibit is a must-see and be sure to check out their website for the seasonal exhibitions. Wander through the great halls and be taken back in time to other time periods and countries through paintings, sculptures, and artifacts.
Shopping in Herald Square
While SoHo is known for its shopping selection, I find shopping at Herald Square much more enjoyable because there are less crowds. The area has all the top chain stores like H&M, Forever 21, Zara, Express, and Urban Outfitters, but is also home to the flagship Macy’s store. After shopping around for a bit, head over to Korea Town at the base of Herald Square for a meal. For a sit down experience, 5 Senses is my favorite. Their kimchi fried rice is one of the best things I’ve ever tasted. For a quick bite, try Woorjip where you can grab a container of warm prepared food like garlic chicken, Korean sushi, or pick from their Korean buffet.
What to Wear
Depending on the season, what you should wear changes dramatically. Summers are extremely humid and winters can reach sub-zero temperatures with the wind chill. However, sunglasses are a must for any season. Find a pair that looks great on your face shape and it can add a whole new dimension and touch of style to every outfit. Leather and denim jackets are great for chilly summer nights or days in the fall and spring, which make them staples in every New York girl's wardrobe. Even in the dead of winter, I like to wear a leather jacket under my coat so I don't have to wear a bulky coat if I'm indoors and get chilly. In the spring and summer, I love throwing light jackets over dresses and pairing with sneakers for easy looks that work for brunches, museum trips, and shopping days.
Cross-body bags are the best accessory to have in New York. I love bags that have metal detailing on the straps which can add color to all black outfits. The style is also ideal for the city because you can fit all the essentials like sunglasses, keys, and wallet, but the bag stays close to your body for security.
New York is a city where anything goes, so let your personal style shine!
