Shop our looks by clicking the image above
Atalie and I just got back from an amazing 5-day trip to New York City! We went for some meetings and to celebrate Atalie’s sweet 16. Her must-do list included thrifting, exploring Central Park, taking the Circle Line boat cruise, visiting the Statue of Liberty, and checking out a farmer’s market.
We were able to hit everything on her list and then some! A little tip: when you walk everywhere, you discover so much more! We stumbled upon the Greenmarket at Union Square, found tons of thrift and home stores, and even came across some adorable coffee shops. Here are some of the highlights:
- High Line
- MOMA
- Guggenheim (we didn’t make it there, but will next time!)
- Top of the Rock – ROCKEFELLER CENTER
- Hudson Yards shopping area
- Circle Line boat tour – Pier 83 – Saw the Statue of Liberty
- Thrifting on Broadway
- Greenmarket at Union Square
- Washington Square Arch
Overall, it was an incredible trip, and we ended up seeing way more than we planned! By day four, though, our feet were ready for a break, and we were looking forward to heading home. But we’ll never forget that delicious meal at La Mercerie!
Which brings me to share. . . .
Our NYC Food Adventure:
- Jack’s Wife Freda: We loved the vibrant atmosphere and the Mediterranean-inspired comfort food at this cozy eatery. It was a perfect spot to unwind after exploring the city.
- Whole Foods: After a long day of walking, we found ourselves craving something simple and comforting. We ordered a whole pizza for just $12 – it was the perfect quick and satisfying meal!
- La Mercerie: For a fine dining experience, we visited this chic French café. We savored the French onion soup, freshly baked bread, and a selection of cheeses. The ambiance was elegant and inviting, making it a memorable meal.
- Balthazar: Another fantastic French spot, where we enjoyed their classic onion soup and a refreshing beet salad. The lively brasserie vibe added to the charm of our dining experience.
- SoHo Grand Hotel: For breakfast, we headed upstairs to the hotel’s restaurant. I opted for the Greek yogurt with fresh fruit – a healthy and delicious start to the day.
- Blue Bottle Coffee: Throughout our trip, we couldn’t get enough of Blue Bottle Coffee. It helped that it was connected to our hotel. Their brews provided the perfect pick-me-up as we explored the city.
- Walker Hotel: 77 Walker St. We stayed at the Walker Hotel, perfectly situated on the edge of Tribeca and SoHo. The location was excellent for walking around, offering easy access to some of the city’s best neighborhoods, shops, and dining spots.
Feeling Like VIPs in NYC: - We felt like insiders and even celebrities during our trip, thanks to the CityPASS! We purchased the 3-attraction package for $90 per adult just a day before our trip, selecting Circle Line Sightseeing Cruises, the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA), and Top of the Rock as our attractions. When signing up, I was able to choose specific days and times for our visits, and we received QR codes to scan upon arrival.
This planning paid off big time! At each attraction, we were whisked away past long lines and directed straight to elevators and entrances, never once having to wait. It was incredible, and we felt like VIPs the entire time—almost like the Kardashians! I highly recommend getting the CityPASS if you want to make the most of your NYC experience without the hassle.
