New York City has long been the ultimate playground for design aficionados, blending history, modernity, and creativity within every block. From captivating hotel interiors to hidden vintage stores, the city’s neighborhoods offer an evolving landscape of experiences. Among New York spots, each corner promises a mix of high design, authentic food, and cultural treasures that create an atmosphere of unmatched vibrancy.
Below, you’ll find some of the most memorable spots for staying, dining, shopping, and exploring, curated with the insights of local designers.
Where to Stay in New York Spots
Whether it’s the luxury of the Upper East Side or the energetic pace of downtown, New York hotels provide a spectrum of experiences for design lovers. Here are some standout locations:
1. The Surrey
Instagram | laurensluxtravel | The Upper East Side’s Surrey Hotel offers an intimate, modern townhouse feel, designed by Lauren Rottet.
Situated on the Upper East Side, The Surrey offers an intimate townhouse feel with modern touches, thanks to Lauren Rottet’s design expertise. This historic 1926 property, with its proximity to Central Park and carefully curated art collection, presents a serene environment, contrasting the busy city life nearby.
2. Ink 48 Hotel
Set in Hell’s Kitchen, Ink 48’s transformation from a 1930s printing factory to a luxury hotel delivers unmatched views of the Hudson River. The Press Lounge, a rooftop bar, is a notable highlight, offering cocktails and panoramic views of the Manhattan skyline.
3. The Bowery Hotel
Downtown, The Bowery Hotel’s 135 rooms embody a timeless, urban elegance with industrial windows, velvet drapes, and hardwood floors. Its vibrant surroundings, filled with nightlife, art galleries, and boutique shops, make it a dynamic choice for visitors looking to dive into the city’s energy.
4. The Whitby Hotel
Located near the Museum of Modern Art, The Whitby brings British charm to NYC. Designer Kit Kemp’s colorful style enlivens the space, creating a playful, eclectic ambiance with patterned interiors. This spot attracts not only travelers but also local designers who frequent the chic in-house bar and restaurant.
Dining and Drinking
In a city known for culinary diversity, these restaurants and cafes stand out for their style and menus, promising memorable experiences for every foodie and design lover alike.
1. Palette
Located in Bergdorf Goodman, Palette is the brainchild of designer Kit Kemp. The vibrant decor pairs perfectly with a plant-based menu, offering a blend of color, taste, and art that makes dining here an inspiring experience.
2. Primrose Café
Nestled in Clinton Hill, Brooklyn, Primrose Café has a cozy, welcoming ambiance. Known for its delicious bagels and friendly atmosphere, it’s the perfect spot to savor your coffee on the outdoor patio or catch up with friends.
3. I Sodi
This Italian restaurant in the West Village captures the heart of Tuscan home cooking with a New York flair. Designer Alyssa Kapito describes the ambiance as “intimate and inviting,” and recommends the lasagna, noting it as “the best pasta you’ll ever have, even the vegetarian one.”
4. La Mercerie
Inside the Roman and Williams Guild, La Mercerie offers a French dining experience where the dining pieces—plates, glasses, and flatware—are all available for purchase. It’s a seamless blend of dining and shopping that captures the essence of New York’s unique restaurant culture.
Shopping for Hidden Gems
From sprawling antique stores to boutique galleries, NYC’s shopping landscape is brimming with treasures for every taste. Here are some essential New York spots for the design-minded shopper:
1. Roman and Williams Guild
Located in SoHo, this store is a destination for high-quality furniture and decor. Designer Anthony Dunning praises the in-store library and on-site café, making it a delightful spot for a leisurely shopping experience.
2. Atlantic Avenue, Brooklyn
For vintage lovers, Atlantic Avenue in Brooklyn is a haven of eclectic finds. Frequented by local designer Delia Kenza, favorite stops include Horseman Antiques, known for its extensive collection of vintage furniture, lighting, and art, and Collier West, an ideal place to find unique housewarming gifts and decor items.
3. Blue Tree
Launched by Phoebe Cates Kline, this boutique on Madison Avenue features an international collection of women’s fashion, fragrances, and home decor. Designer Amy Lau describes it as “a treasure trove with one-of-a-kind finds,” offering an experience that’s hard to replicate.
4. Maison Gerard
Located in the East Village, Maison Gerard is both a gallery and store known for French Art Deco and mid-century furniture. The pieces on display are carefully curated, creating a magical atmosphere for shoppers in search of rare and exquisite decor.
Cultural and Historic New York Spots to Explore
Beyond the shops and cafes, New York offers a wealth of cultural landmarks and historic spots that highlight the city’s architectural and artistic heritage.
1. New York Botanical Garden
Instagram | nybg | The New York Botanical Garden, a 250-acre oasis in the Bronx, boasts stunning plant collections.
Located in the Bronx, this garden spans 250 acres and features stunning plant collections and seasonal events, from the Orchid Show in winter to annual exhibitions. The shop at the garden offers plant-related gifts and garden decor, making it a favorite among tourists and locals.
2. The Metropolitan Museum of Art
One of the city’s most renowned institutions, the Met is home to diverse exhibitions and is a focal point of New York’s cultural life. Designer Alyssa Kapito finds tranquility in the ancient art wing, saying it’s “the city’s most serene space,” offering a peaceful contrast to the hustle outside.
3. Museum of Modern Art (MoMA)
For design enthusiasts, MoMA presents an unparalleled collection of modern art and design. The Museum of Arts and Design, as well as the Cooper Hewitt Smithsonian Design Museum, are also must-visits for anyone passionate about design history and innovation.
4. Neighborhoods to Wander
For architecture and ambiance, take a walking tour through neighborhoods like the West Village, Brooklyn Heights, and Harlem. Each area offers unique architecture, tree-lined streets, and an authentic sense of New York’s community spirit.
Exploring these New York spots offers a window into the city’s eclectic mix of art, culture, and community. From hotels with rooftop views to hidden antique shops, every corner of New York brings a unique experience to those who seek it. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or rediscovering your favorite haunts, these locations reveal a side of New York that captivates every visitor with its mix of history, creativity, and unmatched style.