Five (almost) Free Finds in New York City… and a few luxurious options as well!

Lots to do, lots to do!

Yesterday, I had some time in the morning to walk and explore the city and found some really fabulous finds, which I wanted to share with you.  Akin to putting together a high-low outfit, New York itself has budget friendly finds, as well as a few luxurious finds!

Budget Friendly:

1) Pashminas.  They are on almost every corner in the city, and sold for $5.  Red, black, yellow, green, patterns… you can collect these treasures in many a color and they can be used as a scarf or as an evening wrap.

2) Meat on a Stick and Nuts from a cart. Again, found on almost every corner, both are New York staples and a quick, easy and inexpensive food option.

3) The New York City Library.  It’s free, informative, historical and beautiful.  One could get lost in those time-honored walls.

4) Chelsea Markets. Walk around, explore and enjoy the people watching.

5) Eataly. Mario Batalli’s newest addition to the food world.  When it first opened, there was a line out the door and they were doing a one in- one out policy.  Now that it’s been a few months, there is less of a line and it’s a fun place to see food wares brought in from Italy.

BONUS: I couldn’t make this list without adding Crumbs.  The monster of a cupcake (do not pay attention to the card that lists the calorie count, enjoy it!) is worth the calories and worth seeking out at one of their many locations around the city.

Luxurious:

1) Henri Bendel. It’s a woman’s shopping dream.  They have everything from jewelry, to make-up, cashmere gloves, sunglasses and fun, style books.  Even if you don’t purchase anything, it is still fun to take a lap through all of the beauty laid out before you.

2) Adour: Alain Ducasse French masterpiece inside the St. Regis Hotel.  Innovative, attention to detail and an ever changing menu make Adour a top New York restaurant, but with tasting menus starting at $85/person, it’s a special-occasion kind of place!

3) Plaza Hotel. Whether it’s having Tea with Eloise for the kids or drinks or you, the Plaza is elegant and historic, sits directly across from the entrance to Central Park, and is a landmark in the city.  Even if you aren’t able to stop in, it’s always worth the trip up 5th Avenue to take a look.

4) Masa. With no menu and only 26 seats, Masa offers Japanese fare, that will take diners through a three-hour culinary experience.

5) Any of the fabulous shops along 5th Avenue.  Just walking up 5th Avenue and window shopping is a fun experience in New York City, especially at Christmas when the stores are decorated and festive.  Cartier, Louis Vuitton, Tiffany’s, Gucci, Bergdorf Goodman … the list goes on.

Whichever you choose, New York is a fun experience regardless.  New York is seriously the city that never sleeps, with shows, restaurants and events at all hours of the day and night.  It does not matter how often I visit, I find myself enjoying the city differently each time.  Find your adventure and enjoy the moment!