Basically, every time I visit New York City, I feel like a 5 year old. It’s such a rush of fun and excitement. There’s always SOOO much I want to do and I never have enough time. This time won’t be any different, BUT I do get to visit twice this season. The first trip is solo (think cosmos and sequins ladies), and the next, with Sully. We’ve been to visit once last summer and it was extra special. Seeing NYC with children is far better than any solo experience I have ever had in the Big Apple.
Going with the kids this season? Headed there with the girls? Bringing your man? No matter who you’re traveling with, there’s something for everyone in NYC.
JG Melon, NYC
Can you say mouth watering, so delicious you could eat 2 cheeseburgers? JG Melon, famous since 1972, has 3 locations: the West Village, Upper West Side and the East Side. Each location offers up, in my opinion, THE BEST burgers in NYC. I like mine with bacon and sometimes sautéed onions. They also have the most delicious pecan pie on their dessert menu (just wear stretchy pants for after). Whether solo, or with kids, this is a MUST TRY.
National Geographic Encounter: Ocean Odyssey, Times Square
Need a place to explore with the kids and take a break from the New York City bustle, then this is a MUST. Sully and I visited the National Geographic Encounter last summer with friends and it was amazing! Such a great simulated experience for education, interaction and fun with sea creatures. Honestly, you will feel like you’re at Sea World. Then you can head over to the M&M Store in Times Square for a post exploration treat.
Radio City Music Hall/The Rockettes Christmas Spectacular
1260 6th Ave., New York, NY
This show is so magical, even Santa makes an appearance. The Rockettes bring to life the spirit of Christmas by thrilling audiences with there insanely perfect legs (C’mon..I need all the secrets ladies…so spill the beans soon, k?). My favorite part of the show is when they transform into Toy Soldiers and all fall backwards (I need this secret too…and the coordination). Before the show, or even after too, head to Magnolia Bakery for one of their many delicious, make your mouth water cupcakes. They even have a gluten-free option. My favorite is the Flourless Chocolate Cake.
Magnolia Bakery (multiple locations)
1240 Avenue of the Americas at 49th Street, New York, NY ~ Right next to Radio City Music Hall
Shopping? Head to Soho, baby!
I always love Soho for shopping. There are so many unique boutiques and pop up stores, here are my go to places:
Acne Studios ~ 33 Greene St, New York, NY
SO in love with Acne Studios….I added a few sweaters to my own winter capsule collection and they don’t disappoint. They are a Stockholm-based fashion house that caters to high fashion and comfort,
Reformation ~ 23 Howard St., New York, NY
Sustainable fashion at its best and most fashion forward. I love them because they take risks with their hemlines and don’t apologize for their sex appeal. I do have to try on everything from this label though because they cut small and I have a bigger bust and hips, so it’s always nice to head to their house in Soho for some try on sessions.
Sea NY ~ 324 Canal St., New York, NY
Ahhhhh I just adore this label for dresses that make you feel like a princess. A NY based brand, I always have a modern day Audrey Hepburn moment when I see their romantic pieces. This Canal St. location is so cozy and you can feel right at home as you wander around wonderland.
Extra Fun Activities for Kids:
Chelsea Piers, 62 Chelsea Piers, New York, NY
Views of NYC, bowling, skating, golfing, swimming, gymnastics, and the list goes on! If you want spectacular views of the city, and a place where kids can burn off some energy, head to Chelsea Piers. Sully and I did this last summer and we had a blast! We hit some parks on our way there and then we went bowling. So much fun you’ll never want to leave.
New places I’m heading this time:
Hudson Yards (10th and 12th Avenues from West 30th to West 34th Streets)
https://www.hudsonyardsnewyork.com
This is a place to live, shop, work and dine. I mean, where do I sign? I’ve seen it on Instagram and it’s awe inspiring. Of course I want to see the vessel (pictured below) yet I am VERY afraid of heights. And, of course, I’ll do it anyway, but I’ll probably want to pass out. The shopping and dining I can definitely handle. They have the favorites like H&M, Tiffany’s, Chanel, Coach so I’ll be browsing for sure. I can’t wait to show everyone on my IG story when I get there. Here are some highlights:
Shine on is a bright and brilliant indoor-outdoor artistic light and music installation combined with holiday events and experiences for everyone. If I have time to see this with Sully it will be amazing. I love taking him places like this and experiencing the magic of art and music.
Looking for a Fabulous Brunch Spot?
Sarabeth’s (multiple NYC locations)
https://sarabethsrestaurants.com
Oh. My. Gosh. This is one of my all time favorite spots in NYC. I started going to breakfast at their Tribeca location when I lived in the city way back, and I’ve been hooked ever since. They have 5 locations all over Manhattan, and without question, and with total bias, the Lemon & Ricotta pancakes are my favorite. The atmosphere is relaxed and cozy and every location has the best service. They don’t spare every delicate and delicious detail, and if you want to brunch somewhere that will impress the in-laws or that hot brunch date, then take a tip from me, and head here.
pics courtesy of: Sarabeth’s
Where to Stay?
Hotel Hugo, 525 Greenwich St., New York, NY 10013
Hotel Hugo is a quaint and exquisite boutique hotel with the coolest bohemian-glam vibe located in the Soho district. I absolutely love it here!! The amenities are quite simple: quiet sleep-in sessions with breakfast in bed, a quaint and stylish place to host a meeting or breakfast, a fun rooftop bar in the summer, and the most friendly and courteous concierge services. This place is a no brainer. And get this! They offer rate specials for residents of Boston. Hello!
If you’re on a girls’ trip or a night away with your significant other, I would recommend heading here. A place so good you’ll never want to leave.
pics courtesy of: Hotel Hugo
With the kids? Looking to go Closer to Times Square?
The Courtyard by Marriott
https://www.marriott.com/default.mi
114 W 40th St., New York, NY
This is a great location if you want to bring the family closer to the action as well as get a decent rate. I’ve stayed here with Sully and friends and it was perfect. The kids brought their scooters, and we scooted around the city all weekend. This location was a block from everything we needed. Check it out if you have holiday travel plans here.
pics courtesy of: Mariott
Happy traveling this holiday season. And here are some travel gear suggestions if you need an upgrade:
Shop my daily styles on LiketoKnow.it here: