Planning a trip to NYC can be...a lot. It's one of the biggest cities in the world after all, and with so many options, it can get a bit overwhelming trying to decide what to *actually* do. That's why, when my editors asked me to help vet the New York City itineraries for CosmoTrips, our new travel-booking businesses where we do all the trip planning for you while you do absolutely zero work, I was all in. As a local who's lived in the city for most of my life, I practically consider it my civic duty.
So! Allow me to present your local (and editor) approved guide to the Big Apple. Head's up, this isn't the *exact* Big Apple itinerary you'll follow if you book an NYC CosmoTrip, as there are a couple of different-themed options, so it'll depend on which one you choose. But for the most part, the following activities and recs are all in there, meaning you'll get the vibe either way. And even though I live here, I still “took” the trip myself, and can confirm that a) you will not be disappointed by said vibe, and b) CosmoTrips makes it all v seamless. You can even book the vacay through Klarna and pay in four installments, so you don't have to worry about throwing down all of the $$ upfront. Here’s your ultimate hit list of places to eat, explore, and even dance a bit to make the most of an NYC trip.
Where You'll Stay
Motto Chelsea
When you book with CosmoTrips, the 42-story Motto Chelsea will be your HQ (at least for now...we have big plans up our sleeves and may just add some more hotel options soon). Conveniently located right between Chelsea and Flatiron (two fun and bustling neighborhoods), you're a legit five-minute walk to Madison Square Park, Eataly, and the famous Chelsea Market, a massive food and retail space in the Meatpacking District. And aside from its epic location, the hotel itself is perfect for a luxe and highly-functional stay, with tons of communal spaces to work and play, and a *chef's kiss* Italian restaurant, Bar Cicchetti, helmed by restaurateur and Top Chef alum Fabio Viviani. Consider your work hard, play hard mode activated here.
As a local, I can't help but pass along a few other hotel recs, too. Here are some of my other fave spots for future reference:
The Beekman Hotel
Situated in a tucked-away street smack in the middle of downtown New York, The Beekman Hotel is the ultimate place to seek refuge when you want to feel instantly transported to the 19th century. A nine-story atrium serves as the hotel's foundation, so you can enjoy rays of sunshine that come in and light up the room during the day, and then at night, it morphs into the perfect baroquesque place to unwind. The bar on the first floor is also stunning, cozy, and great for light bites and delish drinks.
Nine Orchard
This 116-room hotel *just* opened in the century-old former Jarmulowsky bank on the corner of Canal and Orchard on the Lower East Side, and, needless to say, it's...totally breathtaking. Nine Orchard doesn't just boast a pretty convenient downtown location; it offers gorgeous Beaux-Arts architecture complete with vaulted ceilings and painted motifs that feel truly grand to say the least. There are also two bars—Corner Bar and The Lobby Lounge—where you can indulge in signature drinks while taking in the hotel's glamorous vibe.
1Hotel Brooklyn Bridge
If you're all about views (and amazing scents), then you have to check out the 1Hotel Brooklyn Bridge. As one of newest members of the 1 Hotel franchise—a hotel group known for its earthy, yet ritzy, tones and emphasis on sustainability—it's also home to Harriet's Lounge and Rooftop, a bar with *the* most breathtaking views of the city skyline. The location is great, too, as you're right near DUMBO, a bustling Brooklyn neighborhood just over the bridge from Manhattan with all sorts of good restaurants and activities (highly rec brunch at Cecconi's, dessert at Brooklyn Ice Cream Factory, and a stroll through Brooklyn Bridge Park, which casually boasts a carousel, beach, and a roller rink).
Pendry Manhattan West
Luxury is at the heart of the Pendry Manhattan West, which has 30 rooms that feature floor-to-ceiling windows, a 1,700-square-foot fitness center, and an eight-acre, multi-use area with shopping venues, a variety theater, a literal Whole Foods (!!), and world-class restaurants by legendary restaurateurs Danny Meyer and Masaharu Morimoto. Zou Zou's, an Eastern Mediterranean restaurant located inside the hotel, is a destination in and of itself, and its cocktail lounge, Chez Zou, has been one of the most talked-about spots in the city as of late. The Pendry is also near many popular attractions, like Hudson Yards (an 18 million+ square foot cultural center complete with residences, a mall, and an observation deck), and The High Line, a public park built on a freight rail line above various miles on the west side.
What You'll Do
Secret Food Tour of Greenwich Village
As a history lover, I was into all of the cool fun facts about the ins and outs of my city on this Secret Food Tour of Greenwich Village. Plus, I got to taste all sorts of out-of-this-world treats, from renowned New York sandwiches to some of the best cupcakes I've ever had. The company also does other tours in more than 50 cities across the globe, which is pretty cool to keep in mind for when you want to explore the food in other parts of the world.
Summit One Vanderbilt
Though it only opened late last year, Summit One Vanderbilt has quickly been helmed as one of the best go-to places in New York City—and it’s easy to see why. Its massive, multi-level observation decks and an ALL-GLASS ELEVATOR WITH TRANSPARENT FLOORS invite you to experience the city in the most unique way possible. First, you’re taken 1,200 feet up in the air in said elevator, then instantly transported to a dazzling mezzanine filled with art installations and interactive activities while you look at the city skyline from a truly spectacular bird’s eye view. Pro tip: Bring a friend! Whether you want to throw around the installation’s inflatable silver balloons, grab a cocktail at the Danny Meyers-run Après lounge and café, or snap Insta-worthy pics to upload to your feed, this one-of-a-kind experience is only made better by good company. Plus, if you’re scared of heights, it never hurts to have someone hold your hand :)
Comedy Cellar
Widely considered to be the best comedy club in the country, the Comedy Cellar is a certifiably good time. With acts from Melissa Villaseñor to Michael Che, it's the gathering spot for all of the top-quality comics, and you never know who's bound to make a special appearance during any given night’s lineup. Oh, and if you just so happen to be seated near the front, definitely prepare for some semi-wholesome roasting—it *is* a comedy show after all! They also don’t allow phones to be taken out while comedians are performing, so it’ll be a bonding experience with you and whoever you go with for sure. And FYI, you have to reserve tickets on Comedy Cellar’s website, but even if they’re sold out, chances are you can still get in via their in-person waitlist as long as you get there around half an hour before showtime.
Fotografiska
Fotografiska is truly the ultimate NYC destination, featuring everything from a world-class museum with remarkable, curated exhibitions and a newly-opened restaurant, Verōnika, to its Chapel Bar social club (which BTW is located in a jaw-dropping, jewel-toned, 19th-century church). My advice: Make an entire night out of a visit there. After all, where else can you see breathtaking exhibitions marshaled by top-tier curators that feature the most talented artists, have dinner under larger-than-life sized brass chandeliers, and sip on cocktails in a confessional booth? Answer: nowhere.
Williamsburg Hotel Rooftop
All summer, the Williamsburg Hotel has a rooftop pool and lounge that’s open for business. And if that’s not enough, there’s also a water tower with another bar and even more dazzling, floor-to-ceiling views of the city. TL;DR: It’s the perfect place for capturing stunning sunset pics. Pro tip: If it’s a Sunday afternoon and you want to dance with your friends on one of the coolest NYC rooftops, Nine & Up Group throws a weekly Azure party that serves as the perfect nightcap to your weekend.
Where You'll Eat & Drink
Cipriani
Dining at Cipriani’s downtown location is truly an experience like no other—especially if, like me, you’re all about people watching with your friends. The food is beyond divine, and with standouts like the steak tartare “alla Cipriani,” baked tagliolini with Praga ham, and, of course, their iconic vanilla meringue cake, you’re sure to have one of the most memorable dinners ever. The franchise is also known for making incredible espresso martinis and bellinis, so make sure to order one (or three) before heading on up to Socialista lounge right above the restaurant. P.S. It's usually easier to score a res if you call even a few days out instead of through a booking website.
Lola Taverna
This place is…beyond incredible. Everything from the drinks (my fave is the Santorini Spring) to the amazing food and ambiance is *chef’s kiss*, whether you stop by for brunch or do a full-on dinner. If you get absolutely anything, you have to try the saganaki fondue. Think: cheesy, flavorful, and hot…like, they-light-it-on-fire-before-you-eat-it hot.
The Up & Up
Sultry, floral wallpaper? Check. Sexy, intimate bar vibe? Check. A cocktail menu that’s truly to die for? Check. The Up & Up quite literally has it all and is the perfect place to grab drinks and light bites with a date or group of friends. Local intel: If you’re in a smaller group, definitely ask about whether it’s possible to sit at the actual bar so you have a chance to speak with the bartenders. They’re beyond knowledgeable about every drink on the menu, and, who knows? You might just be inspired to order something you never would have otherwise. It’s also pretty cool to see them brand the ice cubes with their signature logo up close!
American Bar
I love this place so much, I actually have a group chat named “Standing American Bar Res” where a group of friends and I plan our brunches here every few weeks. OTT? Yes. Necessary niche bonding activity? Also yes. The crisp, white tablecloths, adorable lamps, and vintage posters on the walls lend this spot a distinct vibe, and pretty much every food option on the menu is incredible. My friends and I even have a tradition of ordering both the breakfast martini (made with vodka, orange marmalade, and lemon) AND the espresso martini when we arrive...they're that good.
Balthazar
This legacy NYC spot has been around since the 1990s, but has somehow manages to feel simultaneously old-school and contemporary even today. A French bistro filled with antique mirrors, cozy wooden banquettes, and impressive bar-to-ceiling shelves, Balthazar is all about the good vibes. There's no better place to try signature delish meals, from a hearty onion soup gratinée to savory steak frites. Plus, with a Rolodex of A-list clientele that includes Anna Wintour and Meryl Streep, dining at Balthazar all but guarantees that you'll see a celeb or two enjoying its warm and inviting space. And if you're short on time, the restaurant also has a bakery and café right next door to the main location that offers salads, drinks, sandwiches, an assortment of breads, and sweets.
P.S. Here's Your Packing List
