Curator’s statement
There’s something about New York City that feels electric the second you arrive. From cozy coffee shops and brownstone-lined streets to late nights under the city lights, every corner feels cinematic and full of possibility. It’s a place that inspires creativity, ambition, and romance all at once, which is why it continues to be one of my favorite destinations to explore. Whether you’re planning a girls trip, a weekend escape, or your own main character moment, NYC always gives you something unforgettable to take home with you.
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Things to do in New York City
Grand Central Terminal
Explore Grand Central Terminal
One of my favorite things to do in the city is walk through the terminal and take in how beautiful and iconic it is. Between the architecture, the ceiling mural, and the energy of the city moving around you, it feels like stepping into a movie scene.
Walk along Fifth Avenue and visit Tiffany & Co.
It’s such a classic New York experience, especially during the holidays or on a sunny afternoon. Stopping by Tiffany’s always makes me feel a little like Holly Golightly, and it’s the perfect place to romanticize the city, and eat breakfast at the Blue Box Cafe.
Spend an afternoon at The Metropolitan Museum of Art
The Met is one of those places you could visit over and over and still discover something new each time. Honestly, sometimes you don’t even have to go inside to enjoy it, sitting on the Met steps, admiring the beautiful architecture, and feeling a little like Blair Waldorf is an experience on its own.
Try the classic NYC foods
From fresh bagels in the morning to late-night pizza slices, New York has so many iconic spots that are worth adding to your list.
Have a picnic in Central Park
A picnic is one of the best places to slow down and enjoy the city for a moment. Bringing coffee, pastries, or takeout and relaxing in the park feels like the perfect little escape from the busy streets of Manhattan.
See the skyline from above
Seeing New York City from an observation deck is something everyone should experience at least once. Whether you visit The Top of the Rock, Empire State Building, The Edge, or SUMMIT One Vanderbilt, the skyline views are absolutely unforgettable.
Places to eat & drink in New York City
230 Fifth Rooftop Bar
The Empire Rooftop
Overall, this rooftop was a fun experience, especially for any Gossip Girl fan. They had a Gossip Girl themed cocktail that literally had “XOXO Gossip Girl” written on top, which made the whole night feel so iconic and New York.
230 Fifth Rooftop Bar
Where there are some of the best skyline views of the city, especially at sunset or at night when everything is lit up. It’s one of those places that instantly gives you the classic NYC rooftop experience.
Magnolia Bakery
Absolutely worth the hype for the famous banana pudding. It’s creamy, sweet, and honestly one of the best desserts I’ve ever had.
Angelo’s Pizza
I’ve been to Angelo’s multiple times, and it’s always been such a solid spot for pizza, pasta, and drinks. It also never felt overly crowded, which was nice after long days exploring the city.
The Blue Box Cafe
Going to the top of Tiffany & Co. to this cafe felt like living out of a real-life “Breakfast at Tiffany's" moment. I went for my birthday and ordered the Breakfast at Tiffany’s experience, and every single part was beautifully presented and genuinely delicious.
Need to know
New York City is one of those places where you’ll end up walking a lot more than you expect, so comfortable shoes are absolutely essential. Even if you plan on taking the subway or taxi cabs, some of the best parts of the city are found just by wandering through different neighborhoods and exploring without a strict plan.
Leading up to that, I recommend leaving some free time in your itinerary rather than planning every second of your trip. Some of the best NYC moments happen unexpectedly—finding a cute café, discovering a random souvenir shop, hearing live music on the street, or stumbling upon a view that makes you stop for a second and take it all in.
If you want to visit popular attractions, observation decks, or restaurants, I definitely recommend booking reservations or buying tickets in advance whenever possible. Places like SUMMIT One Vanderbilt and The Blue Box Cafe can fill up quickly, especially during weekends and holidays.
And finally, don't feel pressured to do everything in one trip. New York is the kind of city that keeps pulling you back because there’s always something new to experience every single time you visit.
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Madi Dillon
Madi Dillon
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For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Manhattan page.