Ok, this one is for my friend Kari…
People always ask me and you finally got me to do this. 🙂 Every time anyone goes to NYC, they ask me for recommendations, so here’s the ultimate guide for anyone planning the perfect New York City trip. Whether you want to sip cocktails at Bemelmans, score a last-minute Broadway ticket, or shop like a celebrity, I’ve got you covered.
I decided to make this curated guide to ensure that you experience the best of NYC…luxury dining, shopping, celebrity hotspots, speakeasies, cultural attractions, and hidden gems that will make your trip unforgettable with your besties.
Scroll through the headings, there is something for everyone. If you are going to go to New York, you have to do it BIG. This is in no particular order but since Kari asked me about Little Italy, I will start there…
Little Italy has evolved over the years, but it remains a must-visit neighborhood for classic Italian-American culture, dining, and history. Here are the best spots to visit for an authentic experience:
Best Restaurants & Bakeries
Ferrara Bakery & Cafe 📍 195 Grand St, New York, NY 10013📜 Since 1892, Ferrara has been NYC’s premier Italian pastry shop. 🥐 Must-Try: Cannoli, sfogliatella, espresso, and their famous tiramisu.
Gelso & Grand 📍 186 Grand St, New York, NY 10013 📜 A trendy, modern take on Italian-American dining, blending old-school recipes with fresh flavors. 🍝 Must-Try: Truffle pappardelle, Nonna’s meatballs, wood-fired pizza.
Da Nico Ristorante 📍 164 Mulberry St, New York, NY 10013 📜 A family-run restaurant known for traditional Italian dishes, homemade pasta, and a beautiful garden patio. 🍕 Must-Try: Chicken Parmigiana, fried calamari, brick-oven pizza.
Umberto’s Clam House📍 132 Mulberry St, New York, NY 10013📜 An old-school Italian seafood joint famous for its history with NYC mobsters. 🦪 Must-Try: Linguine with white clam sauce, seafood fra diavolo, oysters.
Parm📍 248 Mulberry St, New York, NY 10012 📜 A casual, modern Italian eatery with a focus on sandwiches and classic comfort food. 🥪 Must-Try: Chicken Parm hero, garlic bread, baked ziti.
🍷 Where to Grab a Drink
Mulberry Street Bar📍 176 Mulberry St, New York, NY 10013📜 A legendary Little Italy bar with a classic NYC atmosphere, known for appearing in movies like Donnie Brasco.🍸 Must-Try: Negroni, Aperol Spritz, Italian wines.
Il Cortile📍 125 Mulberry St, New York, NY 10013📜 An elegant, family-owned Italian restaurant with a stunning courtyard for drinks and dining.🍷 Must-Try: House-made sangria, limoncello, Barolo wine.
🎭 Things to Do
🎉 Attend the Feast of San Gennaro (September) – NYC’s most famous Italian street festival, celebrating Italian heritage with food, live music, and parades.📍 Mulberry Street (between Canal & Houston St).
📜 Visit the Italian American Museum – Learn about the history of Italian immigrants in NYC.📍 155 Mulberry St, New York, NY 10013
🚶 Walk Mulberry Street – The heart of Little Italy, filled with historic Italian eateries, bakeries, and culture.
🛍️ Shop for Italian Goods
• Di Palo’s Fine Foods (200 Grand St) – The best imported cheeses, meats, and pastas.
• E. Rossi & Co. (193 Grand St) – Authentic Italian souvenirs and religious artifacts.
💡 Pro Tips for Visiting Little Italy
✔ Go early or late – Midday gets packed with tourists.
✔ Cash is still king – Some classic spots prefer cash.
✔ Combine with Chinatown – Chinatown is right next door, making for a great combined food tour!
Little Italy may be smaller than it once was, but it remains a must-visit for history, incredible food, and a taste of old New York. Viva Italia! 🍝🇮🇹
These speakeasies offer a glimpse into New York City’s Prohibition-era past, each providing a unique and memorable experience. Due to their popularity and limited seating, it’s advisable to check reservation policies or arrive early. Enjoy your exploration of NYC’s hidden bars! Here’s a curated list of speakeasies in New York City known for their clandestine entrances, exceptional cocktails, and unique atmospheres:
1. Please Don’t Tell (PDT) • 113 St. Mark’s Place, East Village • Entrance: Accessed through a vintage phone booth inside Crif Dogs, a hot dog shop. • Highlights: Renowned for its intimate setting and inventive cocktails.
2. Attaboy 134 Eldridge Street, Lower East Side • Entrance: Unmarked door with “AB” on the buzzer; no reservations. • Highlights: Tailored cocktails crafted based on your preferences.
3. The Back Room 102 Norfolk Street, Lower East Side • Entrance: Hidden behind a toy store façade; look for “Lower East Side Toy Company” sign. • Highlights: Authentic Prohibition-era ambiance with drinks served in teacups.
4. Bathtub Gin 132 9th Avenue, Chelsea • Entrance: Enter through a coffee shop façade; the bar is concealed behind. • Highlights: 1920s-inspired décor featuring a central bathtub and live jazz performances.
5. Employees Only 510 Hudson Street, West Village • Entrance: Marked by a neon “Psychic” sign; a tarot reader greets guests at the entrance. • Highlights: Celebrated for its classic cocktails and vibrant late-night atmosphere.
6. La Noxe 28th Street and 7th Avenue Subway Station, Chelsea • Entrance: Located within the subway station; look for an unmarked door. • Highlights: Intimate setting with eclectic décor and curated cocktails.
7. Little Branch • 20 7th Avenue South, West Village • Entrance: Unassuming metal door leading to a basement bar. • Highlights: Known for its jazz music and expertly crafted classic cocktails.
8. Apothéke 9 Doyers Street, Chinatown • Entrance: Tucked away on a curved alley; look for the apothecary-style façade. • Highlights: Alchemy-themed cocktails in a lavish, vintage setting.
9. The Garret 296 Bleecker Street, West Village • Entrance: Hidden above a Five Guys burger joint; access via a concealed staircase. • Highlights: Cozy atmosphere with creative cocktails and rooftop views.
10. Angel’s Share 8 Stuyvesant Street, East Village • Entrance: Behind an unmarked door inside a Japanese restaurant. • Highlights: Elegant ambiance with a focus on precision-crafted cocktails.
*Make reservations! That’s all I am saying and I cannot stress this enough. And if you are coming from Los Angeles, the flaky no show thing doesn’t work in NYC, you often time must put down a credit card to hold the Rez and if you no show you will pay a fee. New York will school you on any West Coast Bullshit.
Italian & European Cuisine
• Carbone (Greenwich Village) – A celebrity-favorite Italian-American restaurant, known for its spicy rigatoni vodka.
• Rubirosa (Nolita) – Cozy Italian-American eatery with iconic thin-crust pizzas.
• Casa Lever (Midtown East) – Manhattan sophistication meets superb Milanese classics, set against a backdrop of modern art and timeless architecture.
• Cipriani Downtown (SoHo) – Chic, upscale Northern Italian cuisine.
• Bad Roman (Columbus Circle) – Trendy, modern Italian with over-the-top dishes and fun cocktails.
• Marea (Central Park South) – A Michelin-starred Italian seafood restaurant known for its elegant dining experience, handmade pastas, and coastal Italian flavors.
• Emilio’s Ballato (SoHo) – Beloved old-school Italian spot where Leonardo DiCaprio and Rihanna have dined.
• Quality Italian (Midtown) – A steakhouse-inspired Italian restaurant famous for its Chicken Parm Pizza. We ate so many things here that I dream about.
• Rao’s (Harlem) – The hardest reservation in NYC, an exclusive, old-school Italian spot. The size of a bathtub.
French & Fine Dining
• Le Bernardin (Midtown) – Three-Michelin-star seafood restaurant, a top-tier dining experience.
• Per Se (Columbus Circle) – Thomas Keller’s Michelin-starred fine dining.
• Eleven Madison Park (Flatiron) – One of the world’s top restaurants, now offering an entirely plant-based menu.
• Daniel (Upper East Side) – Elegant French dining by Michelin-starred chef Daniel Boulud.
• Gabriel Kreuther (Midtown) – Alsatian fine dining with impeccable service.
• Café Boulud (Upper East Side) – A French brasserie with timeless classics.
• La Grande Boucherie (Near Columbus Circle) – A stunning Art Nouveau French brasserie featuring a floral-adorned walkway, elegant décor, and a beautiful outdoor patio.
NYC Classics & Iconic Spots
• Sarabeth’s (Central Park South) – One of the best brunch spots in NYC.
• Tavern on the Green (Central Park) – A legendary NYC dining experience with a beautiful outdoor setting. Just sit outside and do hot cocoa and French fries. Thank me later.
• The Russian Tea Room (Midtown) – A glamorous, historic tea room with stunning décor.
Sushi & Asian Fusion
• Nobu Fifty Seven (Midtown) – Celebrity-favorite sushi and Japanese-Peruvian fusion.
• Sushi Azabu (Tribeca) – Leonardo DiCaprio’s hidden sushi gem.
• Masa (Columbus Circle) – The most expensive sushi experience in NYC.
New York City has an incredible café culture, offering everything from historic spots to trendy, Instagram-worthy locations. Whether you’re in the mood for artisanal coffee, European pastries, or a cozy ambiance, here are some must-visit cafés:
Luxury & Iconic Cafés
These cafés offer elegance, history, and world-class dining, making them perfect for an upscale coffee or afternoon tea experience in NYC.
The Blue Box Café by Daniel Boulud (Tiffany & Co., Fifth Avenue) 
727 5th Avenue, 6th Floor, New York, NY 10022
An elegant café inside Tiffany & Co.’s flagship store, where you can literally have “Breakfast at Tiffany’s” in a Tiffany Blue setting.
Must-Try: Signature breakfast, luxury afternoon tea, and their Blue Box pastry selection.
Reservations Required: Book via Resy (Reservations open 30 days in advance.) Don’t be deterred, JUST DO IT.
Ladurée (Upper East Side & SoHo) 864 Madison Avenue, New York, NY 10021 + 398 W Broadway, New York, NY 10012 A luxurious Parisian tea salon offering an elegant ambiance, delicate macarons, and a stunning garden patio at the SoHo location. Must-Try: Signature macarons, French pastries, and afternoon tea service.
Café Sabarsky (Upper East Side, Neue Galerie) 1048 Fifth Avenue, New York, NY 10028 A Viennese café inside the Neue Galerie, styled with antique furnishings, marble tabletops, and views of Central Park. Must-Try: Viennese coffee, apple strudel, Sachertorte, and savory Austrian dishes like Wiener Schnitzel.
Dante (Greenwich Village) 79-81 Macdougal Street, New York, NY 10012 A historic café and bar, originally opened in 1915, known for its European-style coffee culture and world-class cocktails. Must-Try: Espresso martini, negroni variations, and Italian small plates.
Serendipity 3 (Upper East Side) 225 East 60th Street, New York, NY 10022 A whimsical café known for over-the-top desserts, kitschy décor, and the world-famous Frrrozen Hot Chocolate. Must-Try: Frrrozen Hot Chocolate, giant sundaes, and foot-long hot dogs.
Pro Tips for Visiting Luxury Cafés in NYC:
Make Reservations – The Blue Box Café and Ladurée get booked out fast.
Dress Up – Some spots, like Café Sabarsky, have a chic, European vibe.
Try Afternoon Tea – Many of these locations offer a formal tea service with sweet and savory bites.
Chic & Trendy Cafés
Maman (Multiple Locations) 239 Centre St (SoHo) + Other Locations A charming French-inspired café known for its rustic décor, floral aesthetic, and famous nutty chocolate chip cookies.
Felix Roasting Co. (NoMad) 450 Park Ave S, New York, NY 10016 One of NYC’s most beautifully designed cafés, featuring velvet-lined booths, marble counters, and unique coffee creations like smoked lattes.
Remi Flower & Coffee (Financial District) 123 William St, New York, NY 10038 A hidden gem combining a floral shop with a specialty coffee bar, perfect for aesthetically pleasing drinks and a calming atmosphere.
Ralph’s Coffee (Flatiron & Upper East Side) 160 5th Ave, New York, NY 10010 + Other Locations A stylish coffee shop by Ralph Lauren, offering elegant branding and a cozy yet luxurious ambiance.
Historic & Classic Cafés
The Hungarian Pastry Shop (Morningside Heights) 1030 Amsterdam Ave, New York, NY 10025 A European-style café loved by writers and academics, serving delicious strudels, Danishes, and pastries.
Caffe Reggio (Greenwich Village) 119 Macdougal St, New York, NY 10012 The first café to introduce cappuccino to America in 1927. Known for its vintage espresso machine and old-world charm. 
Cozy &
Minimalist Cafés
Butler Bakeshop (Multiple Locations) Williamsburg, Dumbo, & Manhattan A sleek, modern café offering high-quality coffee and fresh-baked pastries in a stylish setting.
Plowshares Coffee (Morningside Heights) 1351 Amsterdam Ave, New York, NY 10027 A spacious, plant-filled café known for roasting its own beans and serving expertly crafted coffee.
Blue Bottle Coffee (Multiple Locations) 101 University Place, New York, NY 10003 + Various Locations Minimalist and modern, Blue Bottle is famous for its precision-brewed coffee and sleek, uncluttered aesthetic.
Pro Tips for Visiting NYC Cafés:
Go early – Many trendy cafés have long lines, especially in SoHo and Williamsburg.
Try seasonal specials – Some cafés (like Felix Roasting Co. and Maman) offer limited-time drinks.
Bring cash – Some old-school spots like Caffe Reggio might not always accept cards.
These cafés offer diverse atmospheres and flavors, making them must-visit destinations for any coffee lover or traveler in NYC. Enjoy caffeine-fueled adventures! 
Fifth Avenue • Renowned for its luxury retailers, flagship stores, and iconic department stores, Fifth Avenue is a must-visit for fashion enthusiasts. • Highlights: Saks Fifth Avenue, Bergdorf Goodman, and the Apple Store.
SoHo (means South of Houston Street) • Known for its cobblestone streets and cast-iron architecture, SoHo offers a mix of high-end boutiques, art galleries, and trendy shops. • Highlights: Designer boutiques, unique pop-up shops, and contemporary art galleries.
Madison Avenue (Upper East Side) • This upscale shopping district is home to luxury brands and designer boutiques, offering an elegant shopping experience. • Highlights: Ralph Lauren, Chanel, and other high-end retailers.
Chelsea Market • A vibrant marketplace featuring a variety of food vendors, unique shops, and artisanal products, all housed in a historic building.
Canal Street Market • A curated market in Chinatown offering a mix of retail vendors and food stalls, showcasing local designers and culinary talents.
New York City is home to some of the best flea markets, offering vintage clothing, antiques, handmade crafts, and rare finds. Whether you’re looking for unique fashion pieces, collectibles, or one-of-a-kind artwork, these flea markets are a must-visit.
🏙️ Manhattan Flea Markets
Chelsea Flea Market (Midtown West) 📍 29 W 25th St, New York, NY 10010 📜 One of NYC’s most famous flea markets, featuring over 50 vendors selling vintage goods, antiques, and collectibles. 🛍 Must-Find: Vintage jewelry, rare books, mid-century furniture. 📅 Open: Saturdays & Sundays, 8 AM – 4 PM.
Grand Bazaar NYC (Upper West Side) 📍 100 W 77th St, New York, NY 10024 📜 One of the city’s largest and oldest markets, featuring antiques, crafts, vintage clothing, and handmade jewelry. 🛍 Must-Find: Rare art, handmade leather goods, and vintage designer fashion. 📅 Open: Sundays, 10 AM – 5 PM.
Nolita Market (SoHo / Nolita) 📍 Prince St & Mulberry St, New York, NY 10012 📜 A small but trendy market featuring local designers and unique handmade items. 🛍 Must-Find: Graphic tees, quirky jewelry, hand-painted artwork. 📅 Open: Fridays – Sundays, 10 AM – 7 PM.
🌉 Brooklyn Flea Markets
Brooklyn Flea (DUMBO & Williamsburg) 📍 80 Pearl St, Brooklyn, NY 11201 (DUMBO) | 25 Kent Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11249 (Williamsburg) 📜 NYC’s most famous flea market, featuring a mix of vintage fashion, antiques, furniture, and crafts. 🛍 Must-Find: Vintage denim, old-school vinyl records, handcrafted home décor. 📅 Open:Saturdays (DUMBO), Sundays (Williamsburg), 10 AM – 5 PM.
Bushwick Flea (Bushwick) 📍 16 Harrison Pl, Brooklyn, NY 11206 📜 An eclectic flea market known for unique secondhand finds and handmade pieces. 🛍 Must-Find: Retro fashion, street art prints, collectible vinyl. 📅 Open:Weekends, 11 AM – 6 PM.
🎨 Unique & Themed Flea Markets
Artists & Fleas (Chelsea & Williamsburg) 📍 88 10th Ave, New York, NY 10011 (Chelsea) | 70 N 7th St, Brooklyn, NY 11249 (Williamsburg) 📜 A curated flea market featuring independent artists, jewelry makers, and vintage sellers. 🛍 Must-Find: Handmade jewelry, indie fashion, custom prints. 📅 Open: Daily (Chelsea), Weekends (Williamsburg).
Ludlow Flea (Lower East Side) 📍 159 Ludlow St, New York, NY 10002 📜 A newer flea market focusing on vintage fashion and second-hand designer finds. 🛍 Must-Find: Y2K fashion, streetwear brands, rare sneakers. 📅Open: Weekends, 12 PM – 6 PM.
💡 Pro Tips for NYC Flea Markets:
✔ Arrive early – The best items sell out fast.
✔ Bring cash – Some vendors only accept cash, though many take cards.
✔ Negotiate politely – Bargaining is welcome, especially at vintage stalls.
✔ Check the weather – Most markets are outdoors, so plan accordingly.
Katz’s Delicatessen • An iconic NYC deli since 1888, known for its pastrami sandwiches and classic Jewish fare.
Junior’s Restaurant & Bakery • Famous for its New York-style cheesecake, Junior’s offers a full menu of diner favorites.
Veselka • A 24-hour Ukrainian diner in the East Village, serving pierogi, borscht, and other Eastern European dishes.
Eisenberg’s Sandwich Shop • A classic luncheonette since 1929, known for its sandwiches and nostalgic atmosphere.
Brooklyn Diner • Celebrating American comfort food, Brooklyn Diner offers generous portions and a retro ambiance.
New York City offers legendary jazz venues and upscale cocktail bars that deliver incredible music, sophisticated ambiance, and timeless charm. Whether you’re in the mood for an intimate jazz performance or an elegant cocktail experience, these are the best places to visit.
🎺 Iconic & Historic Jazz Clubs
Village Vanguard (West Village📍 178 7th Ave S, New York, NY 10014 📜 Founded in 1935, this legendary basement club has hosted jazz greats like John Coltrane and Miles Davis. Known for its unparalleled acoustics and history. 🎶 Must-See: Weekly performances from The Vanguard Jazz Orchestra. 📅 Open: Nightly shows, reservations recommended.
Blue Note (Greenwich Village)📍 131 W 3rd St, New York, NY 10012 📜 One of NYC’s most famous jazz venues, featuring top-tier international artists and a Sunday jazz brunch. 🎶 Must-See: Late-night jam sessions and big-name performers. 📅 Open: Nightly shows, reservations required for peak times.
Birdland (Midtown West)📍 315 W 44th St, New York, NY 10036 📜 Named after jazz legend Charlie “Bird” Parker, this venue features world-class jazz acts, big bands, and Broadway-related jazz events. 🎶 Must-See: The Birdland Big Band performances. 📅 Open: Nightly shows, dinner service available.
🍸 Upscale Jazz Lounges/Iconic Cocktails
Bemelmans Bar (Upper East Side – The Carlyle Hotel) 📍 35 E 76th St, New York, NY 10021 📜 One of NYC’s most luxurious jazz bars, known for its whimsical murals by Ludwig Bemelmans (creator of Madeline) and live jazz nightly. 🎶 Must-See: The legendary pianist and jazz trio performances. 🍸 Must-Try: Classic martini, Old Fashioned, or the famous Carlyle Punch. 📅 Open: Every night, reservations recommended.
Dizzy’s Club (Columbus Circle – Jazz at Lincoln Center) 📍 10 Columbus Cir, New York, NY 10019 📜 Located at Jazz at Lincoln Center, offering stunning skyline views and performances from world-class musicians. 🎶 Must-See: Big band nights and performances featuring Lincoln Center’s jazz orchestra. 📅 Open: Nightly, upscale dress recommended.
The Campbell (Midtown – Grand Central Terminal)📍 15 Vanderbilt Ave, New York, NY 10017 📜 A former 1920s office turned into an elegant cocktail lounge with a grand stone fireplace and rich wood-paneled decor. 🍸 Must-Try: The Prohibition Old Fashioned, Negroni, or Champagne Cocktails. 📅 Open: Daily, best for pre-dinner drinks.
The Rose Club (Midtown – The Plaza Hotel)📍 768 5th Ave, New York, NY 10019 📜 A historic lounge inside The Plaza Hotel, offering a refined cocktail menu and live jazz performances. 🍸 Must-Try: Champagne cocktails, Manhattans, and rare vintage wines. 📅 Open: Wednesday–Saturday, upscale dress required.
The Django (Tribeca – The Roxy Hotel)📍 2 6th Ave, New York, NY 10013 📜 A stylish underground jazz club inspired by 1920s Paris, featuring intimate performances and craft cocktails. 🎶 Must-See: Swing, bebop, and New Orleans-style jazz performances. 📅 Open: Wednesday–Sunday, features craft cocktails and a speakeasy vibe.
💡 Pro Tips for Visiting NYC Jazz Clubs & Cocktail Lounges:
✔ Make Reservations – Bemelmans Bar, Blue Note, and Village Vanguard book up fast.
✔ Check Cover Charges – Most jazz clubs have a cover fee ($20–$50), sometimes with a drink minimum.
✔ Arrive Early – Seating at many venues is first-come, first-served.
✔ Dress to Impress – Upscale spots like Bemelmans Bar, The Rose Club, and The Campbell require stylish attire.
The Metropolitan Museum of Art (The Met) • One of the world’s largest and finest art museums, The Met presents over 5,000 years of art from various cultures, including classical antiquities, Renaissance masterpieces, and iconic American works.
The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) • Dedicated to contemporary and modern art, featuring works by Van Gogh, Warhol, Picasso, and Monet, alongside groundbreaking exhibitions.
American Museum of Natural History • Renowned for its extensive scientific collections, this museum offers exhibits on human cultures, the natural world, and the universe, including the famous Blue Whale model and dinosaur fossils.
Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum • Famed for its unique spiral architecture designed by Frank Lloyd Wright, the Guggenheim houses an impressive collection of modern and contemporary art, including works by Kandinsky and Picasso.
Whitney Museum of American Art • Focused on 20th- and 21st-century American art, the Whitney showcases a diverse range of contemporary artworks, with an emphasis on living artists and experimental exhibitions.
The Frick Collection • Housed in the former mansion of industrialist Henry Clay Frick, this museum features European masterpieces, including works by Rembrandt, Vermeer, and Gainsborough, in an intimate setting.
The Morgan Library & Museum • A hidden gem showcasing rare manuscripts, original literary works, and historic documents, including a stunning library with ornate ceilings and rare books.
The Tenement Museum • A unique museum offering immersive historical tours of restored tenement apartments, telling the stories of immigrant families who lived in NYC’s Lower East Side.
The New Museum • The premier museum for cutting-edge contemporary art, showcasing bold and experimental exhibitions from emerging and established artists.
The Museum at FIT (Fashion Institute of Technology) • A must-visit for fashion lovers, featuring rotating exhibits on high fashion, textiles, and costume history, with collections from Dior, Chanel, and Alexander McQueen.
💡 Pro Tips for Visiting NYC Museums:
✔ Check Free Admission Days – Many museums offer free or pay-what-you-wish hours on certain days.
✔ Buy Tickets in Advance – Skip the lines by purchasing tickets online.
✔ Plan for Walking – Some museums (like The Met) are massive, so wear comfortable shoes.
✔ Explore Museum Cafés – Many have great restaurants like The Met’s Petrie Court Café or The Whitney’s Untitled.
Lots to see! And these are my general must sees.
• Top of the Rock Observation Deck (Midtown) – Stunning views of the skyline.
• The Met (Metropolitan Museum of Art) (Upper East Side) – Home to Madame X by John Singer Sargent, my favorite painting – Go see her for me!.
• Strawberry Fields & Imagine Mosaic (Central Park) – A peaceful tribute to John Lennon.
• Central Park Zoo – Small but charming, featuring sea lions and snow leopards.
• Empire State Building (Midtown) – The classic NYC skyscraper experience.
• Brooklyn Bridge – Walk across for incredible skyline views.
• Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island – A must for first-time visitors.
• Times Square – Experience NYC’s electric energy.
• Rockefeller Center – Home to Top of the Rock, ice skating, and Radio City Music Hall.
• Carnegie Hall – One of the world’s most prestigious concert venues.
💆♀️ Relaxing & Luxury Experiences
• Afternoon Tea at The Plaza Hotel – A luxurious NYC tradition.
• Spa Day at The Peninsula NYC or Aire Ancient Baths – Indulge in ultimate relaxation.
• SUMMIT One Vanderbilt – A futuristic, immersive art and observation experience.
💡 Pro Tips for Your Trip
✔ Make Reservations Early – NYC’s top restaurants book up fast!
✔ Pack Comfortable Shoes – You’ll be walking a lot.
✔ Use Uber/Lyft or the Subway – Avoid crazy NYC traffic.
✔ Bring Cash for Tipping – Restaurants, bars, and hotels expect 20% tips.
Experiencing a Broadway show in New York City is a memorable event. Here’s a guide to some notable shows currently playing and tips to enhance your theater experience.
Current Broadway Shows
Here are some notable Broadway productions you might consider:
• Death Becomes Her: A musical adaptation of the 1992 cult classic film, starring Megan Hilty and Jennifer Simard. The story follows two rivals who drink a potion promising eternal youth, leading to darkly comedic consequences.
• Redwood: Idina Menzel returns to Broadway in this new musical about a woman seeking solace in a redwood forest.
• Maybe Happy Ending: A unique musical featuring robot romantic leads, offering a fresh narrative in the Broadway scene.
• Smash: A stage adaptation of the cult TV series, reimagined as a backstage musical farce about creating a Broadway show about Marilyn Monroe.
• Operation Mincemeat: A New Musical: An Olivier Award-winning caper musical based on a World War II deception operation.
• Buena Vista Social Club: A musical inspired by the making of the iconic 1997 album, depicting the true story of legendary Cuban musicians.
• Othello: A Broadway adaptation starring Denzel Washington and Jake Gyllenhaal, offering a fresh take on Shakespeare’s classic.
For a comprehensive list of shows and ticket information, you can visit Broadway.com.
Tips for Attending Broadway Shows
1. Book Tickets in Advance: Popular shows often sell out quickly. Secure your tickets early to ensure availability and better seat selection.
2. Arrive Early: Aim to arrive at least 30 minutes before the show’s start time. This allows time for security checks, finding your seat, and settling in.
3. Dress Comfortably: While there’s no strict dress code, many attendees opt for smart casual attire. Remember, theaters can vary in temperature, so consider bringing a light layer. I believe the theater is a temple of art, so I ALWAYS dress up, but that’s just me.
4. Plan Your Transportation: Theater District traffic can be congested, especially during peak hours. Plan your route and consider public transportation to avoid delays.
5. Check for Discounts: Services like TodayTix, TKTS booths, and show lotteries offer discounted tickets. Flexibility and spontaneity can lead to great deals.
6. Respect Theater Etiquette: Silence your phone, avoid talking during the performance, and be mindful of those around you to ensure an enjoyable experience for all.
7. Understand the Seating Chart: Familiarize yourself with the theater’s layout to choose seats that match your preferences and budget.
8. Stay Hydrated and Nourished: Eat a light meal before the show and bring a bottle of water if allowed. Some theaters offer concessions, but options may be limited.
9. Be Prepared for Security Checks: Many theaters conduct bag checks upon entry. To expedite the process, carry minimal belongings and avoid large bags.
10. Enjoy the Experience: Immerse yourself in the performance, appreciate the talent on stage, and make the most of your Broadway outing.
Attending a Broadway show is a quintessential New York experience. With these tips and an awareness of current productions, you’re well-prepared to enjoy a memorable theater experience. It’ll cost ya, but you will be glad you did it.
Luxury & Trendy Hotels
• The Plaza Hotel – Classic NYC luxury, steps from Central Park & Fifth Ave shopping. Just go in for a browse and see the Eloise portrait.
• The Ritz-Carlton New York, Central Park – Iconic hotel with stunning park views.
• The Greenwich Hotel – Robert De Niro’s stylish Tribeca boutique hotel.
• The NoMad Hotel – Elegant and trendy in the heart of Manhattan.
• The Ludlow Hotel – Chic Lower East Side stay with a rooftop garden.
• Equinox Hotel Hudson Yards – Ultra-modern, wellness-focused luxury.
Historic & Affordable Hotels
If you’re looking to stay somewhere with a rich history but without an extravagant price tag, these hotels are perfect for experiencing NYC’s iconic past while staying within budget.
The Warwick New York Location: 65 W 54th St, New York, NY 10019 • Located in Midtown, near Central Park, Rockefeller Center, and Fifth Avenue shopping. 
Affordability: Mid-range Why Stay Here? • Built in 1926 by William Randolph Hearst, this hotel has hosted James Dean, The Beatles, Elvis Presley, and Cary Grant. (Stayed here with my hubs and we had some haunting experiences and that was cool.) • Old Hollywood glamour meets modern luxury.
The Algonquin Hotel – Autograph Collection Location: 59 W 44th St, New York, NY 10036 Affordability: Mid-range Why Stay Here? • Opened in 1902, famous for the Algonquin Round Table, a group of writers including Dorothy Parker. • Known as the first NYC hotel to welcome female solo travelers in the early 1900s. • Steps away from Broadway theaters and Times Square.
The Hotel Chelsea Location: 222 W 23rd St, New York, NY 10011 Affordability: Mid-range Why Stay Here? • A legendary artist’s retreat, hosting Andy Warhol, Bob Dylan, Janis Joplin, and Patti Smith. • Originally built in 1884, this hotel still has its bohemian and historic charm. • Located in Chelsea, near The High Line and world-famous art galleries.
The Roosevelt Hotel (Currently Closed, but Expected to Reopen) Location: 45 E 45th St, New York, NY 10017 Affordability: Mid-range Why Stay Here? • Opened in 1924, this was the inspiration for the “Mad Men” TV series hotel scenes. • Hosted famous figures like Humphrey Bogart and was a film location for Wall Street. • Close to Grand Central Terminal and Bryant Park.
The Lucerne Hotel Location: 201 W 79th St, New York, NY 10024 Affordability: Affordable-Mid Why Stay Here? • Built in 1904, offering elegant architecture in the Upper West Side. • Close to Central Park, The American Museum of Natural History, and Lincoln Center. • Has a European boutique feel at a reasonable price.
The London NYC • Location: 151 West 54th Street, New York, NY 10019 Affordability: Mid-range pricing, providing a balance between luxury and value. Why Stay Here? • Formerly known as The London NYC, this hotel has been rebranded as The Luxury Collection Hotel Manhattan Midtown. It offers spacious suites and is situated near Central Park and Times Square. • The hotel has been a notable part of Midtown Manhattan’s hospitality scene, offering luxury accommodations with a touch of British elegance.
Washington Square Hotel Location: 103 Waverly Pl, New York, NY 10011 Affordability: Affordable-Mid Why Stay Here? • Opened in 1902, located in the heart of Greenwich Village. • Hosted guests like Bob Dylan, Ernest Hemingway, and The Rolling Stones. • Steps from Washington Square Park, NYU, and a short walk to SoHo shopping.
The Jane Hotel Location: 113 Jane St, New York, NY 10014 Affordability: Budget-Friendly Why Stay Here? • Built in 1908, Titanic survivors stayed here after the shipwreck. • Rooms are designed like ship cabins, with vintage decor. • Located in the West Village, near The High Line and Meatpacking District.
Hotel Belleclaire Location: 2175 Broadway, New York, NY 10024 Affordability: Affordable-Mid Why Stay Here? • Built in 1903, hosted Mark Twain and Babe Ruth. • Upper West Side location, near Central Park and Lincoln Center. • Beautiful Art Nouveau decor with modern renovations.
The Wall Street Inn Location: 9 S William St, New York, NY 10004 Affordability: Budget-Friendly Why Stay Here? • Historic charm in the Financial District, close to Wall Street, Battery Park, and The Statue of Liberty ferries. • A great mix of affordability and classic NYC elegance.
These hotels offer a rich New York experience at an affordable price, blending historic charm with modern comfort.
Ok Kari, this guide is inspired by you and ensures an incredible mix of luxury, adventure, culture, and NYC magic for your trip and it is just the start! I hope I am there at the same time! Make New York your Oyster.
Whether you’re celebrity-spotting, indulging in Michelin-starred dining, or taking in breathtaking views, this trip will be one for the books!
Enjoy NYC! 💫✨ You paid the price to be there, DO IT BIG. The small stuff is easy.
"New York is like a disco, but without the music." - Elaine Stritch
