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I have a serious love hate relationship with New York City. I remember when I first visited, I told myself I’d never go back – mostly because a door guy didn’t let my friend in because she wasn’t attractive enough (true story). Anywayssss… then I was sent there for work a year later. Then again and again. Each time, I’ve grown more fond of all it has to offer outside of nightlife.

My best trip thus far was when I went to visit my friend who recently moved there. I knew it was going to be a good one because she is the type to explore each and every part of the city she lives in. She wants to know all of the best coffee shops, restaurants, and hidden gem sites. Let’s just say she’s succeeded once again. We were out of the door by 8am and didn’t come back home until 10pm. With only a night and a day there, we tried making the absolute most out of it!

Whether you have 24-hours or a few days in NYC, here are the spots I recommend.

Other NYC articles: Top 10 Things to do in NYC


First and foremost – how to get there

There are quite a few ways that you are able to get into the city depending on where you are coming from.

  • Train – Being from Boston, this is my favorite mode of transportation. It is a bit pricier depending on the times, but you could nap or get work done. Amtrak is a good place to start if you are a train person.
  • Bus – Depending on the day and the time of day, the bus could also be a great option. My round trip bus ticket was just $54. However, on the way there because it was a Friday afternoon, it took me around 7 hours for a 4 hour trip. Sunday morning though only took the 4 hours. Just make sure you are booking good times to avoid traffic. I’m personally a fan of Peter Pan bus, but definitely need to try a few others to make a final call.
  • Plane – This could also be an inexpensive way to get to the city, but both Newark and JFK airports are around 45-1 hour away driving or by train.

Walk the Brooklyn Bridge

Out of all the times I’ve been to New York, I’ve never walked across the Brooklyn Bridge. I do want you to note that I get excited about pretty much everything, so if you do it and weren’t awed by it, it’s not me exaggerating – I actually did love it. We got on the bridge around 9am and it was already pretty packed. I would highly recommend going even earlier if you can – especially in the summer time! Sunrise is obviously the best because it has the least amount of people and the lighting is perfection.

Don’t miss the most important meal of the day

Yes I mean breakfast. That is actually my most favorite meal. If I don’t have it, I’d run if I were you (hangry Kelsey comes out). So… you can trust my breakfast making decisions. However, I’m always up for new suggestions when I go back, so leave a comment below!

  • Nagle’s Bagels – If you love a good bagel, then don’t miss getting one in NYC. They are known for their delicious bagels, and this spot in Brooklyn is probably the best I’ve had.
  • Two Hands – This spot is a gem. It’s not just cute inside, but the food is amazing too.
  • Poko NY – Whether you have a big group or just two people, this is a great place to have brunch. Bottomless mimosas and breakfast (I got the french toast, YUM) for a great price.
  • The Grey Dog – There are a few throughout the city. I absolutely love this restaurant. You get in line, order, then find a spot to sit. This is a must go!

And then there’s lunch

New York is known for their food in general, so you’re going to have to make this a cheat day and be ok with eating anything and everything.

  • The meatball shop – located in Manhattan. I fell in love with these meatballs.
  • Blue Stone Lane – has an awesome menu for all meals, but a great lunch spot.
  • Joe’s Pizza or John’s of Bleecker St – historical pizza joints that obviously you should try out. The pizza is SO good.

Walk Stone Street

This is one of New York’s most oldest streets. It’s filled with restaurants and cafes, with most you can sit outside in the summer. We took a quick stroll through here to get to breakfast and it was very cute.

Catch a pic at the Flat Iron Building

Ever since studying in Italy, I’m in awe of architecture. The Flat Iron building is unique and worth a stop by on your way traveling north.

Lay in Washington Square Park

After about three hours of walking around, we needed to rest our legs. Washington Square Park is a popular one in the city, where I’m sure you’ve seen instagrammers and photographers post. We found a nice grassy area in the park and people watched. I love parks, because I love nature. So if you’re like me, this is a great spot to lounge under the trees. There are also usually good street performers and musicians, which are always fun to watch or listen to!

Explore Grand Central Station

Another first for me. I had never stepped foot into Grand Central Station before, but it truly is incredible. All of the architecture and intricate design could have you wandering around the building for hours. We also found there is a hidden gem within the station. There is a four cornered area that if you walk through (pictured above), you may see people with their ears against the wall.  If you go across from a friend and talk through the wall, you can hear them from the other side! Once again, this might just be me getting excited over everything but I thought this was cool.

Grab lunch and picnic at Central Park

Or go for a run, walk, bike. Whatever you do, go there. I love Central Park because I feel like I can somewhat escape the city and be around nature, but still get the city views. I also had learned that they have some awesome statues scattered around it including Alice In Wonderland, so obviously had to go search for those.

Bag shown in image can be found here: WINK Fashion Shoulder Travel Bag (brown)

Grab a cookie at Levain Bakery 

I wish I had taken a picture of this cookie and milk I got from Levain bakery, but I was just too busy embracing every bite I took. May sound corny, but this well-known spot is worth it I tell you! We went to the original one, which is a small hole in the ground (that’s kind of literal). The address to the original one is 167 West 47th Street, Manhattan. If you’re all about the sweets, make sure to add this to your list of stops.

Grab a slice at Joes and watch sunset at Dominos Park

Just before sunset, we wandered around Williamsburg a bit and did some vintage shopping. Then headed to Joe’s Pizza and grabbed a slice before going to watch sunset. Pizza is another food in the city you won’t want to miss out on. This hole in the wall pizza shop was started in the 70s and it is damn good let me tell you. Now for sunset. There is a new park by the old dominos building called “Domino Park”. It’s got a killer view and the sunset over the city is something that really can’t be beat.

Other things to do / tips

  • Go see a live show – I went to see Kelly and Ryan live and it was so much fun. Tickets are free as they are first come, first serve. You will need to arrive early and stand outside, so dress appropriately.
  • Grab a city bike – this is a fun way of transportation. It actually inspired me to start doing it more in Boston. You can get a day pass and use it as much as you want throughout the day. I would recommend getting the app so you can easily see where the bike racks are and whether or not they are full.
  • Keep your head up and stay to the side. New Yorkers are busy people and it’s extremely annoying when they are running into people looking at their phones in the middle of the sidewalk.
  • Like with any city, take precaution and keep your purse tucked to your side.
  • NYC is expensive folks. Be prepared to spend some serious money especially at restaurants. There are always ways around it, but food is New York culture so I try to just embrace it.
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Love all the pass along tips in this NYC piece, Kels. We are thinking of going soon so will be in touch with you for some specifics:)

Ah that would be great if you went Gram 🙂

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