NYC Top Picks

My suite mate and great friend, Melissa, is taking a trip to NYC this summer.  Since I am in love with the city and have made a hobby out of researching it,  I decided to compile a list of my absolute favorite places there.  So Mzitt, this post is for you!

1. The Met

 Even if the McQueen exhibit isn't for you, this extraordinary museum on the Upper East Side is still worth a trip. See my other posts on it for more reasons to go check it out!

2. Little Italy

In the mood for some authentic Italian cuisine? Little Italy is def the place for you.  Go for lunch instead of dinner to eat great food for a great price.

3. Magnolia Bakery

There are four locations in the city, but go to the one on the upper west side to experience my favorite neighborhood. In a time crunch? Go to the one near Rockefeller Center to experience this bakery's (which has been featured in Sex and the City and the Devil Wears Prada) fantastic treats.  The vanilla cupcakes are my personal favorite.

4. Dylan's Candy Bar

 Ralph Lauren's daughter, Dylan, owns this whimsically decorated candy paradise.  There is even a bathtub full of gumballs and giant gummy bears.

5. Bloomingdales
I have never seen a department store so large. Even if you're not a shopper, it is a place to see.  Bonus - it's right by Dylan's.

6. Forty Carrots 
 This cleverly-titled restaurant, which is actually located in Bloomingdales (can you believe it?), is fun and fantastic! Plus, their frozen yogurt and fruit dessert is the perfect end to a hip meal.

7. Central Park

or more specifically the Mall and Belvedere Fountain.  The lush, tree-lined path of the mall, which leads to the vibrant plaza in which the stunning Belvedere Fountain is  located, is a must see. Every time I enter the park I discover something new and am in awe of the fact that all that green-space is located in Manhattan.

8. Bryant Park/ NYC Public Library

The beautiful public library backs right up to the gorgeous park on 42nd and 5th.  There's even a Jamba Juice across from the park on 42nd!

9. St. Patrick's Cathedral

You do not need to be Catholic to appreciate the architecture and grandeur of this cathedral.  How can something so historic and so gorgeous be located smack-dab in the middle of 5th avenue?

10. Serendipity

Frozen Hot-Chocolate may be somewhat of an oxymoron, but Serendipity's is practically legendary.  This original location is slightly cramped, but its size adds to its charm.  Oh and it's right down the street from Dylan's!