NEW YORK CITY | New York City, NYC, The Big Apple, lives up to its name in so many ways. As the most populous city in the United States, New York has an amazing influence on commerce, media, art, fashion, technology, entertainment and so much more. There is always somewhere to go, something to see, and somewhere to eat. With popular landmarks and restaurants on nearly every block, it’s nearly impossible to capture everything New York has to offer. However, if you are looking for tip to help you on your next trip to the city that never sleeps, you have come to the right place. From the well known spots that are always worth a visit to lesser known gems, from Manhattan to Brooklyn, our weekend guide to New York City has you covered.
Do
Times Square
Times Square is probably already on your list if you are Manhattan bound. Buzzing with energy, visiting this square of sorts in the Theater District ensures shopping, eating opportunities, and many bright lights. Having gone both in daylight as well as at night, its advised to make the visit in the later evening to get the full effect of Times Square with its dazzling lights on full display.
The Metropolitan Museum of Art
The Metropolitan Museum of Art is another great spot to visit while in Manhattan. Filled with artwork from around the world, an afternoon spent here is always rewarding. We particularly suggest attending one of the ‘Met’s’ events – for example on the weekends, the Met features live music and workout sessions. A great part about the museum is that you pay whatever you see fit for the entry ticket, making this a great option for the young or budget conscious traveler.
The High Line
In 1999, a group called “Friends of the High Line” was created, who lobbied for the retention of the then derelict rail line, hoping to have it converted into an elevated urban park. They succeeded, and today the High Line is one of New York’s most recognisable attractions, providing locals and visitors alike a great space in which to relax and view the city below.
Some other spots worth visiting while in New York are The Plaza, Bryant Park, Central Park, Madison Square Park, One World Trade Center and Rockefeller Center. A great part about NYC is that there is so much to see outdoors, so make sure you bring good walking shoes!
Eat
Urbanspace Vanderbilt
Urbanspace Vanderbilt is a must stop during your weekend in New York. Urbanspace is a large, two-tiered food hall with over 20 eateries to select from. Some recommended vendors to check out include: Sigmund’s Pretzels, Mimi’s Hummus, Bangkok Bar and Takumi Taco.
Chelsea Market
With a variety of options all under one roof, Chelsea Market is another great spot to check if you are looking for diverse food options or some light shopping. You can buy some fresh locally grown produce and have your own picnic in a nearby park!
The Cellar at Beecher’s
If you are looking for a more relaxed and intimate dining spot, head over to The Cellar at Beecher’s for an amazing menu selection. Known for their cheese, it seems only appropriate to try one of the Cheesemonger cheese plates or the “World’s Best Mac and Cheese”.
Momofuku Noodle Bar
Momofuku Noodle Bar, David Chang’s famous Ramen restaurant, is a great place to try during your stay in the city, and still as good as the day it opened. The menu features classics like the Momofuku Ramen, Pork Bao, and Smoked Wings, but also keep an eye out for the rotating weekly special. This is but one of David Chang’s many hot spots in NYC. As the founder of the Momofuku restaurant group, you can try many of his other creations at Momofuku Ssäm Bar, Má Pêche, and Milk Bar.
Black Tap
One of the most up and coming, famous diners in New York, Black Tap in Soho produces craft burgers, craft beer, and some of the most amazing milkshakes you can find anywhere in the US. These “crazy milkshakes” each come with different themes, often layered with candy, frosting, whipped cream, chocolate and almost any other dessert you can imagine. They have taken both Instagram and SoHo by storm. Black Tap’s success does not end there either – they were named as the holder of the best burger of New York two years in a row.
Brooklyn Brewery
To get a different perspective of NYC compared to densely populated Manhattan, take a walk over the Brooklyn Bridge to Manhattan. Brooklyn Brewery run a fantastic free 30 minute brewery tour, and afterwards you can check out their great range of beers. From the popular Brooklyn Lager to the more experimental, seasonal brews, there’s sure to be something that suits your palate here.
The Meatball Shop
Located just a six minute walk from Brooklyn Brewery, visit The Meatball Shop for a wide range of tasty meatballs cooked to perfection. They have a few locations around the city, but we think this more casual location is the best. They support local, family run producers and create meatballs that allow you to mix and match the meat and sauce that you want.
Ample Hills Creamery
Ample Hills Creamery is a must visit for ice cream lovers. There are a few locations around the city, so make sure to locate one closest to you. Originating from Brooklyn, this family owned company makes their ice cream with healthy and fresh ingredients (even their mix-in flavors are made in house).
Magnolia Bakery
For the sweet-tooth traveler, Magnolia Bakery is an excellent place to visit in New York. Founded in 1996, Magnolia Bakery has become a cherished and nationally renowned producer of American baked goods after being featured on Sex and The City. The Magic Cupcake, a favorite of ours, is made with a vanilla cupcake, rich chocolate, caramel, and coconut. Other recommendations include the Magic Bar, Vanilla Sprinkles, and Vanilla Bean Cheesecake.
Other places you can grab some amazing sweet treats are the previously mentioned Momofuku Milk Bar, Levain Bakery, Ladurée, and Martha’s Country Bakery.
What do you like to do when you are in NYC? We’d love to hear your suggestions in the comments section below.