One of the questions you ask me most is what you absolutely have to do or see when visiting the city. There are so many places I love to visit, things I love to do, and places I love to eat that you may need to come back again and again to visit them all! But I have compiled a list of my personal recommendations for your choosing. Hope you visit soon and enjoy all this magical city has to offer!
LANDMARKS:
The Empire State Building
You will experience views like no other from the vantage points here and they offer so many incredible packages to really make the experience memorable.
Brooklyn Bridge
https://www.brooklynbridgepark.org/
A great way to see the bridge itself is to visit the park, where there’s no shortage of activities to do. You can even kayak here!
Rockefeller Center, Top of the Rock
https://www.rockefellercenter.com/attractions/top-of-the-rock-observation-deck/
360 degree views of New York City. Need I say more!
Central Park
https://www.centralparknyc.org/
NYC’s iconic 843-acre park is a must see. I recommend you walk over to Columbus Circle from here and enjoy lunch or dinner at BlueBird London (ask for a window seat if you want a view).
9/11 Memorial – Freedom Tower
Located at the World Trade Center in New York City, the 9/11 Memorial Museum tells the story of 9/11 through media, narratives, and a collection of monumental and authentic artifacts, presenting visitors with personal stories of loss, recovery, and hope.
Statue of Liberty
https://www.statueofliberty.org/statue-of-liberty/
The Statue of Liberty started as a romantic idea and became the most monumental gift in American history. Today, it stands as a singular symbol of hope and spirit.
Grand Central Terminal
https://www.grandcentralterminal.com/
This historic world-famous landmark in Midtown Manhattan is not simply a transportation hub — it’s also a shopping, dining, and cultural destination with 60 shops, 35 places to eat, and a full calendar of events all under one magnificent roof.
Walk the neighborhoods
NYC’s boroughs are full of charm and heart. Each one distinct and worth a visit!
EATS:
Cecconi’s Dumbo (Brooklyn)
https://www.cecconisdumbo.com/
This is great way to see Brooklyn Bridge and the Manhattan skyline while you dine on fabulous food!
Cafe Luxembourg – UWS
https://cafeluxembourg.com/info
This is a staple in NYC and a definite must visit.
Baccarat Hotel
https://www.baccarathotels.com/
I love Baccarat for Afternoon tea or drinks after work. It’s absolutely stunning.
Tavern on the Green
https://www.tavernonthegreen.com/
Another classic spot in Central Park
The Butchers Daughter – West Village
https://www.thebutchersdaughter.com/west-village/
Liam loves the kid menu here.
LadyBird East Village
https://ladybird-app.herokuapp.com/
Amazing plant-based small plates.
Katz’s Deli
https://katzsdelicatessen.com/
A New York institution since 1888! It’s been in a lot of movies!
Nobu 57
https://www.noburestaurants.com/fifty-seven/home/
Sushi bar and lounge in midtown Manhatten.
The Polo Bar
https://www.ralphlauren.com/global-polo-bar
This one is tough to get in but worth it if you can!
Barbounia
This one has been a favorite of mine since moving to NY. Awesome Mediterranean food and beautiful inside!
La Grande Boucherie
https://boucherie.nyc/la-grande-boucherie-midtown-manhattan-nyc/
A favorite for brunch or drinks.
Eataly
You get to see the Flatiron Building! Shop for unique food items in the markets, grab a coffee or dessert or dine in their restaurant SERRA by Birreria (Very pretty atmosphere and changes seasonally).
So there you have it! Some of my absolute must do’s in the city. Give them a try and they are sure to lead you to even more favorite spots in NYC!