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I spent 48 hours (and 48K steps) loafing around NYC for some serious sole searching—where reservations turned into detours, and theater tickets gave way to street scenes. From Broadway lights to Union Square nights (s/o Carrie Bradshaw!), somewhere between a protest and a parade, I realized—this is how you do NYC. And as I peeled off my well-worn shoes and replayed every city-stamped step, I couldn’t help but wonder… can you fall in love with a city the same way you fall in love with a person? (Spoiler: yes—that, and getting lost in this city is the surest way to feel found). Scroll through for some of my fave finds that made the strides worth savoring.
Posh & Prime
History and modern day merge with all the necessary creature comforts—and plenty of bougie bonuses to boot—in InterContinental New York Barclay’s posh, ideally located stay, making it just as easy to pop over to the East River, Central Park or Broadway… or just about anywhere your feet will take you. The buzzy Parlour offers a spirited escape just a stumble from your room—or the street—and, pro tip: Unlock the Intercontinental Club privileges—period. Business + social needs, plus unlimited water, wine, beer, breakfast buffet, snacks—it literally pays for itself.
Lore Over Lines
A dozen-plus trips to the city later, and—as an SNL and Tonight Show stan—I finally made my way into the Rainbow Room to ogle the lore. Totally worth the effort to sidestep those aimless Rockefeller tourists. But as for the observation deck? Yeah, no… I’m not a “big dumb line” person.
Broadway on Fire
This girl is on fire. From grit to glory, Hell’s Kitchen is served as Alicia Keys delivers her Tony-winning truth via this real glimpse into what it means to be raised on the mean New York streets—finding her rhythm to the, ahem, keys to greatness. Among all the star-studded shows I’ve seen—Julia Roberts, Sarah Jessica Parker, Woody Harrelson and Matthew Broderick among them—this one stands out as one of the best, if not the best. Just go. Inside take: You’ll swear Alicia is singing, and mom Jersey (actress Jessica Vosk) steals the show.
Downhome, Dialed Up
When they hit me with “y’all” at the door, I knew I’d found the promise land. Every dog has its day, and at this place, with its plated (and pimento) perfection, it’s every day. From homemade Doritos and Ritz crackers (not named that—legal reasons and such) and seriously life-changing pastas, Bird Dog belongs on your must list. Slide in at the OG room (it’s been extended) under the Woof Wall and imagine your own fluffer as a Royal (or don’t imagine and head to The Renaissance Pet for your own fancied frame of Fido). P.S. The bathroom is a neon-drenched dream.
Culture Shock
Coffee snob mode: activated. Treating the NY streets like a caffeine junkie-fueled scavenger hunt chasing beans across boroughs for the jolt that truly delivered, trust Culture Espresso is where it’s at. WSJ co-signs it—and so do I.
Rooftop Reset
Spritz high, snack well, stay golden. Bar Sprezzatura is a mood—and that mood is giving Riviera. Rise above the noise to find a sun-drenched sanctuary with signature sips to elevate your spritz state and a palatable array of cicchetti (aka tapas) to fuel you. As the relative new kid on the block, she’s definitely worth your time, and I’m calling it a keeper.
Words With Weight
For an editor, you’d be hard-pressed to top an exhibit celebrating The New Yorker’s literary legacy. But hear me out: New York Public Library is a (Bryant) parkside prose palace carrying words with weight that should absolutely make your bucket list—whether for the exhibit, the history, to get lost in books or marvel at the architecture.
Icon in Green
An icon in its own right, Bryant Park is easily one of my faves. Dotted with tables and makers, and tucked beneath the city’s striking skyscrapers, it’s the perfect oasis to meander or sit and stay awhile—whether you’re people-watching, taking in some retail therapy from the rotating markets or sipping some spirits on The Porch at Bryant Park for some peak patio energy.
Tails on Tap
Dog days of summer are here, and here for it is Barking Dog NYC. The indoor-outdoor oasis in the heart of Broadway brings major brunch energy—all the bark with the bite (in the best way), whether you find yourself in NYC on the massive patio or at the new vibey North Hills locale this summer. Either way, don’t sleep on the chicken & waffles.
Esplanade Energy
East river Esplanade’s been on my NYC bucket list for as long as I can remember—and it didn’t disappoint. A short stroll from Midtown, hit the pedestrian path at 51st and First for a moment of quiet among the chaos—and some serious cinematic views: the water, the skyline and that familiar sliver of freeway frequently splashed across the silver screen. Don’t forget to pause at the benches—those inscriptions carry stories all their own.
Rock the Roof
Didn’t make it this time (Broadway ran late, as Broadway does), but I got to visit a few months ago—and my spell at RT60 Rooftop Bar & Lounge on my last visit is still living in my mind rent-free. Think skyline for days, sleek design, plush seating (in winter, they had blankets) and just enough buzz to make it feel like a secret you’re in on. Definitely worth planning ahead—which is precisely what I’m planning for later this year.
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