New York City is one of my all time favorite destinations. I have so many memories of going to New York City when I was younger- going to Broadway shows, taking dance classes, and endless shopping… We try to go every year especially around Christmas time- it’s so magical! Some of my favorite places and things I’ve done are included in this post. I recently went to NYC and it sparked this idea for this post: A Guide to New York City.
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Shopping
Of course, I always have to make time for shopping in New York City. There are endless places to shop from souvenirs to designer goods.
Club Monaco SOHO
536 Broadway, New York, NY 10012
This store is beyond gorgeous from their clothing to accessories- it’s any girly girls dream to shop there. They even have a lower level for sale items. The décor is so beautiful too… it will be hard to walk out empty handed. You can take a look at some of their items here.
Saks Fifth Avenue
611 5TH Avenue, New York, NY 10022
This flagship store has been floors of the most luxurious items and if you go during the holidays, their Christmas décor is so dreamy. The ceilings are covered with snow flocked tree branches and lights. On the first floor, they have all cosmetics with so many great gifts for the holidays as well as designer boutiques bordering the outside. Also, the outside of the store is another sight to see… at night there is a light display as well as the most intricate window displays!
Rockefeller Center
There are so many great stores inside Rockefeller Center to shop. Some of my favorites are Anthropologie, Banana Republic, and J Crew. You can see the other shopping at Rockefeller Center with store hours and locations here.
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Dining
There are so many amazing restaurants in New York City that it could be so hard to choose. With most New York City restaurants, I recommend reservations so you don’t waste time waiting!
Laduree
398 W Broadway, New York, NY 10012
Based in Paris, France, this little Parisian shop has the best pastries. I went there for breakfast and the croissants were out of this world delicious. They were so soft and flaky. They are also known for their macaroons. The atmosphere was so dainty with pastel colored plates and marble tables. It is pricey but well worth it. You can view the menu here.
^^ Outfit details:
Ruffle Shoulder Sweater (only $25) // Jeans // OTK Boots // Bag // Earrings
Carmines
This is my all-time favorite restaurant and we go to Carmine’s every visit to New York City. It’s an Italian, family-style restaurant. The food is so delicious and I always order the same thing every time we go. I get the Chicken Scaloppine and Garlic & Oil Pasta. Making me hungry just typing this! I suggest making a reservation and you can make one here. See the menu here.
Connolly’s Pub & Restaurant
This is a great dinner or lunch place for really good food. The chicken bruschetta sandwich is so so good!! The prices are not too expensive either. You shouldn’t need a reservation but if you would like to in case make it here. The menu is here.
Tony’s Di Napoli
Another favorite of mine, slightly similar to Carmine’s and they have delicious Italian food. See a trend here? Italian is my favorite. It’s family style and huge portions so it’s best to go with a group of at least 3. Reservations are highly recommended… they are always packed for dinner on the weekends! Make a reservation here and see the menu here.
Junior’s
Another favorite lunch spot or even for dessert. When I was younger, I went with my two best friends as well as another time with my mom for dessert. Their food is so good! It’s in a great location if you are going to see a Broadway show!
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Entertainment
What would New York City be without seeing a Broadway show?? I’ve seen many Broadway shows and I’m going to share my favorite!! Unfortunately, many of the Broadway shows I’ve seen are no longer on Broadway. Also, I can’t not list my favorite place for dance classes either!
Wicked
My all time favorite show ever. I’ve seen this show twice and the first time was a surprise for my 13th Birthday. I was so excited and was hooked ever since. The singing and dancing was absolutely amazing and I was already familiar with the songs before I went and they were even better in person!! Ticket info here.
The Radio City Christmas Spectacular starring the Rockettes
I may be slightly partial to loving this show because of my lifelong dream of being Rockette. I’ve trained with the Rockettes for a week at their summer intensive so I’m a huge fan! The show changes slightly year to year but what never changes is their dancing! Their precision and eye-high kicks makes for an excellent show. My favorite number is “New York At Christmas” where they dance on a double-decker sightseeing bus. You can purchase tickets here.
Broadway Dance Center
Now if you are a dancer like me, you will absolutely love Broadway Dance Center. This dance studio has many classes to offer taught by actual Broadway dancers! It’s neat because in the one class I took there were students who are on Broadway. A nice experience to be standing next to students like that! Class info here.
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Other Things to Do…
Bryant Park
There’s now so much do to in Bryant Park now… They have little shops, an ice skating rink which is free, and the most beautiful scenery!! Some more information on Bryant Park here.
I hope this post was helpful and you found a new place or two to go next time you’re in New York City.
Xo,
Carin