NEW YORK
Did you know that prior to going to Columbia College Chicago my plan was always to move to NYC?! Somehow I ended up getting married, having a kid and stying in Chicago. That's life! I've been to New York hundreds of times and practically lived there in my twenties. So going back is always such a pleasure and so much fun.
I received so many question regarding where to go and what to do in NYC that I figured a post is in order. This was hubbies first time in NYC, I know I can't believe it either. So for this trip we based our stay around midtown. Typically I'm a downtown girl and have actually never stayed in midtown before.
\\ WHERE TO STAY //
I love my Kimpton family, it's one of the most unique properties and amazing hotel chains. I love the concepts of all their properties and they have several in NYC. Because we decided midtown to be the best choice we stayed at the gorgeous KIMPTON MUSE.
The amenities are gorgeous and the rooms are super roomy, especially for New York. The bathrooms have the most amazing light, and the best zebra robes, so on trend! As you can see, I took so many selfies there. It's a rare commodity in New York, so I love it! Perfect for doing make-up and getting ready.
Clearly the beds are incredible, and whoever guesses whether or not I stole this amazing zebra robe gets a prize! Just kidding, I left this beauty behind.
KIMPTON MUSE also has a gorgeous restaurant and bar. We actually loved chilling and pre-gaming at our bar. My hubby is super picky about drinks and the bartenders are amazing mixologist. They whipped up the best Spicy Margaritas for me and hubbies favorite, Old Fashioned.
The hotel is walking distance from Times Square and Fifth Avenue, so whether you want to be a tourist or a shopper you're right in the middle of it all.
Day one was a little nutso for me as I left the crew to head over to some meetings with Ferragamo and Alison Brod. The gang went on to explore Chelsea and pop in for oysters and happy hour at Chelsea Market. I highly recommend you do this. It's a very New York and obviously so fun. Here's the thing about New York, it's less about planning and more about where you end up. So sometimes the best thing to do is to roam the streets and see where the day/night takes you.
\\ BROADWAY //
Because hubby has never been to New York before we figured Broadway is a must. Fun little story, while in Israel a few months back we became very friendly with an incredible woman, who also happens to be a producer for a very famed Broadway show, Come From Away. Guys, this is a MUST SEE. I so wish this show was playing in Chicago. Come From Away, is based on the true story of when the isolated community of Gander, Newfoundland played host to the 38 planes, that were diverted on September 11th, 2001. It's an incredibly powerful, emotional story of mankind. Seriously we laughed, we cried (I sobbed four times,) danced and sang.
Another great thing about KIMPTON MUSE is that it's literally a few blocks away from Broadway. So naturally we walked and got our fix of Times Square at night.
\\ BRUNCH //
Hands down a New York classic is Balthazar in Soho. I've been coming here for 17 years and we had to pop in for their rosé, and all my favorite appetizers. There is a bakery attached so if you don't have time to sit down, pop in for their daily baked goods. You can see why I love Miramar in Highwood so much, it remind me so much of Balthazar and Pastis, another favorite hangout that used to be in meatpacking. It's currently closed but is scheduled to re-open soon. I can not wait!!!
Rest of the day it's fun to explore Soho, hit up Chinatown and make your way down to the Brooklyn Bridge.
\\ BROOKLYN BRIDGE //
This was definitely a bucket list moment. Through all the times I've been to New York and Brooklyn I've actually never waked the bridge. It was such an amazing experience.
The entire bridge is a little over a mile, a great work out post all the yummy food. We ended up in Dumbo just in time for more food! HA!
\\ NIGHT LIFE //
Friday night we checked out Zuma. The food was amazing and the crowd was chic. You can dress up, lounge around upstairs a super cute place.
I also always recommend Polo Bar, it's one of my favorite restaurants in NYC.
My exact dress is unfortunately unavailable but here are a few similar options. Loving a bright dress paired with sheer pantyhose!
After dinner we headed to Seville, a cute lounge in the James. Very typical NY underground lounge. Bottle service, great music, beautiful crowd.
There are so many amazing places in NYC. After all, this is the city that never sleeps and I love it for that. Go to NYC, get lost, meet new people and enjoy! This city is magic and you are a big part of that magic!
