Toast the Town: A Curated NYC Girls' Trip

A morning run or coffee walk through Central Park

There's no better way to ease into the rhythm of the city than with a sunrise stroll (or jog) through Central Park, latte in hand. The quiet morning light transforms the landscape, and you'll get your bearings before the crowds arrive. Stop at Birch Coffee on the Upper West Side—it's right across from the park and serves some of the best coffee in the neighborhood.

The Met

Iconic for a reason, the Metropolitan Museum of Art can feel overwhelming, so go in with a plan. Choose a few must-sees—I'm partial to Degas's Little Dancer Aged Fourteen and the exquisite period rooms—then let yourself wander and get lost. Afterward, claim a spot on the steps for prime people-watching and channel your inner Serena van der Woodsen.

See a show on Broadway

Even if theater isn't typically your thing, a Broadway show is an essential New York experience. For musical theater devotees, it's pure magic. Go classic with The Great Gatsby or Wicked, or try something a little newer like Harry Potter and the Cursed Child or Hamilton—you won't be disappointed either way.

Little Island & the High Line

This pairing is quintessential modern New York. Little Island is a floating park with stunning Hudson River views, while the High Line offers an elevated urban garden walk through Chelsea. Both are architectural marvels that blend nature, design, and city energy in the most unexpected ways.

Chelsea Flea Market

Skip the generic "I ♥ NYC" souvenirs and hunt for something with soul. A vintage picture frame for your favorite trip photo? A hand-stitched scarf? These are the keepsakes that earn a permanent place on your mantle and spark memories for years to come.

Shopping in SoHo

Even if you're just window shopping, SoHo is a feast for the eyes. Flagship stores you can't find outside major cities—Sézane, & Other Stories, Glossier, Le Labo—are all within easy walking distance, their windows styled to perfection and inventory always impeccable. It's retail therapy at its finest.

Eataly

Part market, part restaurant, part Italian wonderland—Eataly is an experience in itself. Wander through aisles of fresh pasta, imported olive oil, and decadent pastries, but whatever you do, don't arrive hungry or you'll leave with far more than you intended (though that's half the fun).

Brooklyn Bridge at sunrise or sunset

Beat the crowds and walk the Brooklyn Bridge during golden hour. The views of the skyline are breathtaking, and there's something deeply romantic about crossing from Manhattan to Brooklyn (or vice versa) as the city glows. Reward yourself with coffee or a cocktail in DUMBO afterward.

A cocktail at a rooftop bar

New York's rooftop bar scene is unparalleled. Whether it's the glamorous vibe at The Refinery Rooftop or sunset drinks at Westlight in Brooklyn, sipping a cocktail above the city skyline is quintessentially New York—and the perfect way to toast the trip.

Dante Apertivo

This West Village gem is legendary for its cocktails, and for good reason. The seasonal negroni is a work of art, and the espresso martini might be the best you'll ever have. The aperitivo hour is peak Italian elegance—settle in at the bar and let the evening unfold.

La Pecora Bianca

Every pasta dish here is exceptional, but save room for the show-stopping tiramisu served family-style in a decorative bowl. It's indulgent, Instagram-worthy, and the perfect way to end a meal with your girls. The ambiance is warm and convivial—exactly what a great Italian dinner should feel like.

Boqueria (W 40th)

This Spanish tapas spot never misses. Ask your server for recommendations and trust them completely—you won't be disappointed by a single dish. The patatas bravas and grilled octopus are standouts, and the vibe is lively without being overwhelming.

Veselka

An East Village institution serving exceptional Ukrainian comfort food around the clock. The borscht (get it with sour cream) is soul-warming, and the fried pierogis stuffed with short rib are richly satisfying. It's cozy, unfussy, and exactly what you need after a long day exploring.

Leon's Bagels

Worth every minute of the wait, though insider tip: Order ahead to skip the line. These bagels are perfectly chewy, generously topped, and exactly what a New York bagel should be. Grab yours and head to the park for an ideal morning start.

Ramen by Ra

Female-owned and fabulous, this spot is a must on chilly days spent wandering the city. The broth is rich and restorative, the noodles perfectly cooked, and the whole experience feels like a warm hug in a bowl. Bonus points for the welcoming, intimate atmosphere.

The Library at the Public

Tucked away inside the Public Hotel, this bar has a cozy, literary charm that feels like a secret. The cocktails are beautifully crafted, the space is dimly lit and intimate, and it's the kind of place where conversations linger long into the night.

The Evelyn

If you're staying at the Evelyn Hotel, don't miss the lobby bar—but even if you're not, it's worth a visit. Stop in for their outstanding espresso martini before heading to dinner. The Art Deco-inspired space is glamorous and elegant, setting the perfect tone for your evening.

Lilia (Williamsburg)

If you're willing to venture to Brooklyn, Lilia is worth the trip. Chef Missy Robbins has perfected Italian cuisine with a focus on house-made pasta that's nothing short of transcendent. The mafaldini and sheep's milk ricotta are legendary. Book well in advance—this place fills up fast.

Balthazar

A SoHo classic that's been enchanting diners for decades. The French brasserie fare is consistently excellent—think steak frites, moules marinières, and a raw bar that gleams. It's bustling, beautiful, and quintessentially New York. Perfect for a long, luxurious brunch or a post-shopping dinner. (And excellent celebrity spotting opportunities.)