Travel Guide: New York City

New York City will never get old. There will always be something new to see: a restaurant, museum, skyscraper, shopping center. I love that no matter how many times you venture into the city you’ll never have the same experience twice. Even though I just returned from a long weekend in NYC, I’m already itching to start planning my next trip. (What do you say, sis?)

I’ve been to New York 3 times now, and I feel like I have a pretty good idea of some of the best places to try out. I’m no expert, and I’m certainly not a local, but having the best tour guide and an open mind has given me some of the best experiences this island has to offer.

Grab your plane ticket and get ready to jet off with me to the city that never sleeps!

Hudson Yards

The world is buzzing about the opening of 20 Hudson Yards and the Vessel, and for good reason. I’m here to tell you that the headlines don’t exaggerate. When I was in New York in January 2018 they were in the middle of construction of 20 Hudson Yards. My sister works in its sister building, 10 Hudson Yards, so I got up close and personal with the work being done. I felt like I came full circle by being there for the first weekend of 20 Hudson Yards being open.

20 Hudson Yards is a shopping experience inspired by the malls and shopping centers of Asia. This is a luxury building with stores like Chanel, Tory Burch, and the newly designed Kate Spade. This is also the home to New York City’s FIRST Neiman Marcus store. I only explored the first level of Neiman’s but it is BEAUTIFUL. The skyscraper also has dining options like Bouchon Bakery, TAK Room, and Milos.

If you need more proof of how much fun you can have at 20 Hudson Yards – check out the gallery below!

Brooklyn Bridge

This is an iconic landmark known for its mind blowing views of the skyline. I finally got to cross this New York staple off my bucket list, and she did not disappoint. This is the perfect location to not only see the Manhattan skyline, but also some great views of Brooklyn. My favorite part was turning around and seeing the bridge perfectly divide the newer skyline of Financial District and the surrounding neighborhoods versus the old school Empire State and Chrysler buildings.

No matter how “touristy” this bridge is, it’s popular for a reason. You won’t get a better view anywhere else. Go get your coffee to go, and take your time walking across. When you get to the other side don’t turn right around. Take some time to explore the brownstones of Brooklyn Heights, or continue your walk on the promenade.

Washington Square Park

Another iconic landmark – this park has an unusual history. From 1797-1826 this was a potter’s field. It was surrounded by cemeteries and where the fountain is now used to be the gallows. While this past is very dark, the park is gorgeous and is a popular spot for picnics and musicians. My personal favorite musician is the Piano Man. He pushed his baby grand piano into the park and sits and plays for a couple hours. He announces each piece he’s going to play, and allows passersby to lay under the piano for a surround sound experience.

Looking through the arch is the Empire State Building – perfectly framed. There are charming apartment buildings and several NYU lecture halls surrounding the park as well. If you get tired of people watching in the park, take a stroll to the White Oak Tavern for a glass of wine. They have boozy brunch until 3 and half price bottles of wine starting at 4. This is a typical “old New York” style tavern with leather booths, tiled floor, and an oak bar. A perfectly cozy spot to mingle.

For some of my favorite restaurant recommendations, check out my New York City Food post here. Where are some of your favorite NYC spots?