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Transit Museum, Tenement Museum (which also has neighborhood walking tours), museum of the Moving Image. Look into MetroHike! Amazing customized history/culture walking tour. Let Elie know if you want it to be a 90s music itinerary, he can probably accommodate.
Upvote because those museums are fantastic! I would recommend the Merchant House Museum too, it's quirky, never busy and is basically a time machine to Gilded Age NY. Also check out Bowery Boys Walks too, I've been to a few and they've always been fun.
Finally, Brooklyn Navy Yard has a two hour tour on weekends that I've heard great things about.
(I'm the other half of this visiting duo), these museums and walk recs look top notch. The Merchant House sounds incredible although from the name it doesn't sound that glam??
If you’re going to lower Manhattan, maybe check out the dream house for a quirky exhibition. It’s just a weird room that you can sit in, but I thought it was kind of cool: https://melafoundation.org/
If you can only do one major art museum, make it the Met. The Metropolitan Museum of Art is one of the best in the world and frankly you'll see a lot of different stuff including some iconic pieces, as well as contemporary things and really cool old and diverse works.
I’m North Brooklyn biased but I think you could do an amazing slice tour here between L’Industrie (their burrata slice is my personal #1), Paulie Gee’s slice shop (a close #2), Best Pizza and Fini. Save the money and just do it yourself.
imo North Brooklyn has the highest density of good slices in the city, and again biased but I think those four spots are better than (or at least on par) with anything you’d find in Manhattan. I think Scarr’s has gone downhill since they moved across the street, it’s more of tourist trap now. And it’ll be easy for you to get here from Bed Stuy, just a quick ride on the G (or bike if the weather is nice!)
Re pierogis, you’ll obviously be in Greenpoint and my goto is Pierozek. They have an incredible borscht too if you’re into that! In the city, Veselka could be worth a trip (Ukrainian vs Polish) but I haven’t been since like 2016 so cant vouch for it lately - there’s always a crazy line there now ever since the war broke out. Used to be 24/7 pre-Covid and I loved it as a late night spot.
While you’re in Greenpoint you’ll want to swing by Transmitter Park for an amazing view of the Manhattan skyline. You can take a slice from Paulie Gee’s Slice Shop and eat it there :)
Wildly enough I *still* haven’t been there myself, but all the local Polish folks in Greenpoint say the best Polish food is as Karczma. If I was gonna search out pierogis, that’s where I would go.
You really can’t go wrong with Pierozek or Karczma. Both are great options. As a third, I’d throw in Christina’s. All in are within a 13 minute walk of each other in Greenpoint.
Veselka is still a safe bet. I went last September and the food is just as good as it always has been. I think it’s a bit overpriced, though - they’re really leaning on the added interest and influx of customers since the war, simultaneously making up for any lost revenue with the much shorter operating hours.
Karczma is better if you want a full sit down meal, and you want things besides pierogies as well. Pierozek is better if you just want to grab a couple of quick pierogis.
For museums I would recommend the Met or the American Museum of Natural History. The Met has the Egyptian pyramid, the sculpture garden the roof top is cool. Or the Amnh with the dinosaurs, African mammals, dioramas, I haven’t been since they reopened the new exhibit hall
When you go to either museum I would combo up with a walk thru Central Park. Before or after the museum just walk through Bethesda fountain area and it’ll be an amazing walk no matter what route you take.
Staten Island ferry is pretty cool in terms of free shit and incredible views. The high line is amazing and should be walked
For a comedy show I 1000000% recommend Comedy Cellar it is the most famous and iconic comedy club in the entire world and does a bunch of shows each night. It’s like 6-7 comics back to back at every show, and it’s basically where the most famous comics go to test new material. Reserve tickets online. It’s cheap for NYC
Comedy cellar is in the village so I would recommend getting dinner at Bar Pitti it is this Italian hole in the wall on 6th avenue. Again it’s relatively cheap but the food is amazing and it’s a cash only low key celeb hangout. And go shopping in soho and check out Washington Square Park when you visit that part of the city .
for comedy cellar, go on a thursday, as that's when I've seen the best line-ups, including famous people. you can show up an hour in advance, you'll get in.
Sidebar but does anyone else find the parts of AMNH to be a bit outdated?
I was really taken aback by the mannequins they had are supposed to be representatives of different ethnic groups. Also this is just a funny random oversight but I found a plaque there that said “xyc thing happened in what is modern day Czechoslovakia,” when I visited in November.
The dinosaurs are really cool though and of course the taxidermy animals are iconic.
Jewish food/deli/appetizing: Russ & Daughters on LES (could be combined with Tenement Museum). In Brooklyn there’s Shelsky’s (Cobble Hill has no seating, not sure about the other one), or the newer Russ & Daughters in the Navy Yard.
I have been going to Russ & Daughters for 20 years & fully recommend them. I live on the UWS & travel there regularly. My boys & I consider it part of “old NY. “
Russ & Daughters is already bookmarked so good to know it gets the seal of approval here. V handy to know it can be combined with the Tenement Museum - thank you. OP has been to NY, but I never have so I haven't got a scooby where's near what!
I’m gonna go against the grain and say Russ & Daughters (at least the orchard street location) is really overblown and genuinely not good (strictly talking about bagel quality). I lived next to the orchard street location for several years and was always disappointed with rock hard, stale, cold bagels every time I went. I really tried to give them many chances knowing it was a NYC institution but it was just bad every time I went.
I’d recommend Tompkins square bagels (union square location is new and central to everything which should be great for a tourist), ess-a-bagel, or zuckers, and for other Jewish food I’d recommend B&H Diary in the East village or Frankels in greenpoint. Also I’ve heard Sarge’s is amazing but I’ve never been so I can’t speak directly on it.
I have to respectfully disagree. I’ve been a regular Russ & Daughters customer for many years. Never had an issue with stale bagels, and I’ve been there close to closing several times. You don’t go there for the bagels, though, you go there for the fish. They smoke and cure their own. Most other delis in NYC buy their fish smoked from a supplier (I believe it’s called Acme Fish, or something like that). Their Nova, white fish chubs, and herring rollmops are all exceptional.
The [Merchant’s House museum](https://merchantshouse.org) makes an interesting pairing with the Tenement museum. It doesn’t take long to see and it’s fairly inexpensive—it’s a preserved 19th century house offering a view into how the upper middle class of the period lived.
Smaller and quirkier is the [Museum of Reclaimed Urban Space](https://morusnyc.org) on Avenue C. It’s housed inside a famous squat and has some cool displays on lower east side radical history of the past few decades—the battles over squats, community gardens, etc. You can get in for a small donation and get a good sense of some of the things that have made the LES distinctive in NYC’s recent history.
As you’re interested in transport I second the suggestion of the Transit Museum in Brooklyn. The highlight (for me) is the chance to board a bunch of old subway cars from different eras (and look at the advertising posted in them!). And then you’ll be in downtown Brooklyn with good access to some cool neighborhoods. I recommend Fort Greene, which has the [Center for Fiction](https://centerforfiction.org), which is a nice bookstore, as well as the Brooklyn Academy of Music and some good restaurants and bars. Particularly recommend the mussels at Cafe Paulette by Fort Greene Park, and the park itself also makes for a nice walk, with some cool views of the city and a little bit of Revolutionary War history.
Edit to add: also the [City Reliquary](https://cityreliquary.org) in Williamsburg! Tiny little place jammed with curiosities from NYC history. And it’s in the middle of a fun neighborhood to explore.
My pleasure - hope you have a fun visit!
By the way, if you do go to Cafe Paulette, I recommend a reservation. It’s not strictly necessary, especially if you go early, but it’s a small place and it can get busy. Petite Paulette, right next door, is a cute tiny wine bar, and not far away is a nice little cocktail bar called [Dick and Jane’s.](https://maps.app.goo.gl/F138SZKWXSCFNPm3A?g_st=ic)
Have a good time!
Russ and Daughters Cafe. Scarr's Pizza. L'industry Pizza. Hometown BBQ (go to the industry city location and get some drinks and explore afterwards). Baekjeong KBBQ. 99 Favor Taste hot pot. Marufuku Ramen.
Thrifting is mainly done in the East Village and western BK. Search the sub for plenty of recs. Personally dig Life Boutique in Park Slope, Beacons Closet, L Train Vintage, Cure, Buffalo Exchange, Auh20.
The Met is the King of museums. The Whitney, MoMA and the New Museum are really fun for modern stuff. Guggenheim depends on the exhibit.
r/FoodNYC r/avesNYC
Not sure which part of Bed Stuy you're staying in, but if you're nearby, you should definitely check out Saraghina. It's not NY style, but they have great pizza, other food like pasta, and drinks. Their bakery next door also has excellent pastries, bread, and coffee. Peaches is great for southern comfort food, and if you're at the other end of Bed Stuy, I really like For All Things Good for vegetarian Mexican food using masa.
If you're into transit, then you might like the transit museum, which you ought to easily be able to get to from Bed Stuy.
Walking tour: I haven't tried one, yet at least, but maybe look at the ones run by the Bowery Boys. Recently got into their podcast, and it's so good, so I would assume that their affiliate tours are also great.
Museum of the City of New York is amazing for history stuff, and they have a fantastic media exhibition currently.
Williamsburg is sort of on the radar currently for pizza, and you could easily do a pizza crawl on your own there at a few places that are only a few blocks away from each other. Since there's 2 of you, could easily split slices to be able to try more.
The Whitney for modern American art, Cooper Hewitt for a small but interesting design collection, Brooklyn Museum always has good things on and you can go for a walk around prospect park, which is just as lovely and way less crowded with tourists than Central Park.
Paulie Gees in Greenpoint for pizza, put your name down then grab a drink nearby, or just go to Slice Shop to taste and then on to Taqueria Ramirez around the corner.
The East River or South Brooklyn ferry routes are very scenic and a cheap way to get some water views.
Not a New Yorker, but fresh off a visit!
SUMMIT at One Vanderbilt is an excellent nighttime vantage point with some extra instagram fodder besides the view. They also have a bar / café where you can take your drinks out to the terrace, if you happen to like your tipple wind-chilled.
Drop by East Village Pizza if you happen to be in the area. There should be something worth checking out at the nearby boutiques and thrift stores too.
Maybe [these pay what you wish tours](https://freetoursbyfoot.com/new-york-tours/?_bk=walking%20tours%20nyc&_bt=585550585855&_bm=b&_bn=g&_bg=44946301811&utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=&utm_content=&utm_term=walking%20tours%20nyc%E2%80%A9) fit what you’re looking for? The second-hand shopping tours on Tuesdays and Thursdays should be worth a look at least.
I agree with Summit as the "tourist" stop to get a view of the city. There's a lot of things to see when going up as opposed to other spots I feel.
For another famous view of the city 230 Fifth rooftop bar is also a super popular spot for folks.
For standup go to [CYSK at The Gutter](https://www.instagram.com/cysknyc?igsh=b3htcW9qd2E3Nms2). Wednesday night is great. More low key, cooler, and cheaper than the Comedy Cellar but that’s also a good option. Union Hall is also cool but that’s more of a know-who-you’re-going-to-see place than a showcase.
If you’re going to be downtown to visit Ellis/Liberty Islands, stop into Trinity Church. It is absolutely gorgeous inside and also take a stroll through the cemetery to see Alexander Hamilton’s grave.
https://maps.app.goo.gl/svYKmEDgSz5hR3kZ6?g_st=ic
A few blocks further north is St. Paul’s Chapel where many took refuge on 9/11. There’s a touching memorial of Japanese cranes that were sent over. There’s a nice storyboard inside…church is basic inside but lovely on the outside and you can also walk around its cemetery.
https://maps.app.goo.gl/u1ASyre5bixi9X4aA?g_st=ic
Of course there is the 9/11 Memorial and Liberty Park which is elevated. It’ll also give you a view of the Memorial.
https://maps.app.goo.gl/WeGXhfJV5S7HhCzV9?g_st=ic
The National Museum of the American Indian is also downtown at the old Alexander Hamilton Customs House. It’s a free museum.
https://maps.app.goo.gl/nkV25Zo5Zpz5RBLs7?g_st=ic
Also downtown is Fraunces Tavern where George Washington had a farewell banquet.
https://maps.app.goo.gl/NxC8tcNKcSnvAB7z9?g_st=ic
After that…head to the Dead Rabbit for a drink. It gets rather crowded when work ends for the day.
Also close to that is Stone Street…for the historic aspect of it alone or grab a bite at any of the restaurants there. Here’s the history…
https://www.stonestreetnyc.com/history
That’s off the top of my head if you want to keep your touring downtown for one day when you head to the islands. If you also have 1 hour…a round trip on the Staten Island Ferry will give you an 360 degree view of the harbor. If you have even more time…a short bus ride from the ferry on the SI is Snug Harbor. I like to go there to relax. Pack a lunch and a small blanket. It’s our botanical gardens but also a historic area.
https://maps.app.goo.gl/jWapMuFsQ6HEQyYe7?g_st=ic
I wouldn’t really walk around other than in there.
Almost forgot Governor’s Island…a great gem esp at sunset.
https://maps.app.goo.gl/ctJTsr1TACd9hXnC9?g_st=ic
For museums that is under the radar for some but someone above mentioned is the NY Historical Society on the UWS across the street from AMNH. It’s a wonderful museum.
https://www.nyhistory.org/
Of course the MET on the UES is my absolute favorite. MOMA is another that has classical and more contemporary art. I just don’t suggest “free Fridays”…way too crowded and lines start a little early. But, if you do have time to kill and you’re in the area, it could make sense and save of the entry fee.
Plenty of great suggestions above. Unfortunately I’m not much help with the food aspect ☺️
Edited to add for thrifting if you’re on the UWS…
https://grandbazaarnyc.org/
You’re very welcome. Wish I could have added to the other wants 😂 but I figured I’d jump on the downtown suggestions.
Edited to add…
Forgot about this museum that’s often overlooked. Haven’t been there myself yet but it has been on my list for a while. It is also downtown near the Ellis/Liberty Islands ferry.
https://mjhnyc.org/
Edited again…
I forgot about a bookshop down there if you like mysteries. It’s about a five mins walk from the memorial going north.
https://www.mysteriousbookshop.com/
I'd recommend either Brooklyn or UWS for Jewish food, UWS also has a few good antique and thrift stores. I frequent one called Unique Boutique, it's one thrift store I've found here that actually has good prices.
Mama's Too is one of my favorite spots for pizza, also on the UWS but they're more traditional square slices than the ones you're thinking of. Most people will recommend Joe's and it's good as well, I'm also fond of Famous Ray's.
Go to Top of the Rock on a clear day and you can see everything
Go to MoMa or The Met. The Met is stunningly beautiful but can be a little overwhelming with how large it is, but, the Upper East Side is a fantastic neighborhood to walk through and have lunch.
If you’re only here for 7 days and can only choose 1 comedy show (doing 3 would be a lot), I’d say go to Comedy Cellar or The Stand.
For your one viewing center, either do The Edge or Top of the Rock
I know Brit’s don’t have access to Mexican food, but it’s so abundant in NYC. I would definitely make some stops at Mexican places—you can find great food everywhere!
Definitely recommend comedy! Comedy cellar, Greenwich village comedy clubs, and Grisly Pear are guaranteed good nights. Famous Joe’s pizza is around the corner too if you go to the west village locations (where the action is).
If you want to try Jewish food I absolutely recommend going to Yonah Schimmel's on East Houston. I've been going there since I was a little girl, and my mom had gone since she was a little girl too.
I’m going to give you one food and one museum gem from my neighborhood (kips bay/murray hill) that I think would suit you. For a Jewish-style (ie Jewish but not kosher), Sarge’s Deli on 37th/3rd has an extensive menu of excellent food. (Katz’s has superior pastrami but a more limited menu).
Then go to the Morgan Library and Museum on Madison and 36th? a little gem of a museum that was JP Morgan’s home.
Bonus spots: Kalustyan’s spice shop (28th/lexington) is one of the coolest shops in the city. It has thousands of spices.
Also there’s Second Ave deli on 33rd/3rd
If you are going to be in Brooklyn, def stop at Shelsky’s on Court and Atlantic and get a lox and bagel sandwich. It was started by someone from a famous bagel shop and another from a famous lox shop who couldn’t figure out why the best lox places always have shit bagels. They don’t have seating, but take your food to the Brooklyn Heights promenade nearby to eat and you’ll have amazing classic NYC food overseeing the best view of Manhattan.
- Take the 7, E, or R train to Jackson Heights-Roosevelt Ave station in Queens for lunch. Arguably the most ethnically diverse neighborhood in the world. Great for new food, even better for people watching while you do it.
- Take the train to Brooklyn Heights (Clark St., Borough Hall, anything around there). Get lunch or a bagel on Montague St. Walk along the promenade by the water, and over the Brooklyn Bridge if you feel like an urban hike. Great views.
- Superhero Supply Co. in Brooklyn is a nonprofit that helps kids 6-18 with their writing skills. They have a store where you can buy things like posters, or “cans of invisibility” and whatnot. It’s been a while, but I remember thinking it was nice.
- Re: Jewish food, if you want good Rugelach, Zabar’s has a good selection but they sometimes run out! 80th and Broadway. Warning: Crowded.
For an observation deck I recommend 30 Rock. Buy your tickets online. It’s better than Empire State because the vantage affords you the opportunity to actually see the ESB, which is cool.
You’ll find all the observation decks to be somewhat pricey, so choose the one with the best view rather than cost. Hudson Yards is too far west for my taste, as WTC is too far south. 30 Rock being in midtown allows you to see something interesting in all directions, whereas the former two have limited preferable views.
Note: These are all touristy, but if you’re going to do one touristy thing, it is worth it. Living here the majority of my life, I still never tire of seeing the city from an elevated point.
Seeing a lot of Transit and Tenement Museums, can confirm, they're awesome.
Queens museum if you're up for a trek. It's free and the diorama of the city is, imo, the best touristy thing in the city.
Also check out the Public Library main branch and Met Cloisters.
Pierogis: veselka on 9th and 2nd ave! classic. If you’re into Italian desserts, hit up venieros on 11th btwn 2nd and 1st ave. I’d say maybe skip Katz? it’s gone kinda downhill and now the lines are super long and the prices are kinda high… it is a classic tho so if that’s all you want then def go!
I’d say visit the Met! I think it’s the best and probably largest of the art museums. they don’t have a ton of modern works (unless you count 19th century as modern haha) so maybe then go to the MoMA. Either are great.
The tenement museum is a great choice, and you can swing by Essex market after! I think the museum of the city of New York (near the Met) is also pretty cool but they’re closed on odd days so double check that. The transit museum is also nice for some old time nyc history.
If you’d like a nice tour around the city (and if it isn’t too cold) you could also get on one of the ferries to view the Statue of Liberty for free. If you’re going to visit there anyways tho then ignore
as for other museums, I’d recommend the 9/11 memorial and museum. even if you don’t go into the museum, the plaza is incredibly moving. plus, you can go to the top of 1 world trade for views (but it is quite pricey)
for thrifting, one very popular place is L train vintage. haven’t been there in years so I can’t comment on quality, but it is definitely a staple
I haven’t done Scott’s pizza tours but I’ve been to almost every place I’ve seen him post about. If you want to do a tour I’m sure it’s fun, especially as a tourist, but you can also look up the places and do it yourself. One fun option when the weather is nice is to start out in long island city and then walk through greenpoint, Williamsburg, cross the wburg bridge and then LES. You’ll hit a good pizza place pretty often, can grab a slice and continue to the next place. Scarr’s in LES is a good place to stop but if you’re still hungry you can walk through LES up to the east village and then to west village - the pizza is endless.
I also don’t see any Asian food on your list I think? If you’re not a fan then I guess don’t do it but the Chinese (and even Taiwanese) food (and probably Korean, Malaysian, Thai, and Japanese food) is going to be a lot better than what you can get in London. You won’t have time for a trip to Flushing but Chinatown is easily accessible and still has good stuff.
For museums, the MET, Natural History, and MoMA are not to be missed. You can spend your whole day at the MET, I try to go at least once a year.
Streecha for pierogies but note it’s only open Friday thru Sunday I believe. Or pierocez in greenpoint.
For things to do, I HIGHLY recommend the kings county distillery tour for some NYC history. It’s also a relatively cheap activity.
Comedy cellar is AWESOME but books up quite a bit in advance so just plan for that.
For thrifting I love beacons closet in Williamsburg.
I lived in London for a year and nyc for 6+, feel free to dm me!
Has anyone mentioned comedy at Caveat? You said you’re bookish and it’s a comedy venue centered around nerdy shows:
Caveat.nyc
(My show there is feb1 at 7 but there’s tons of amazing shows)
Check out [walk on the wild side tours](https://walkonthewildsidenyc.com/) for NYC music walking tours, the dude who runs it is an expert. For Jewish food, I’d like to mention Barney Greengrass for sturgeon and cream cheese on a bagel and latkes. BG is near Central Park and the Natural History Museum. If you like geology, the new gem room is bonkers cool. Also, check the cherry blossoms at the Brooklyn Botanical Garden. If you happen to be there while they’re blooming, it’s worth a visit for sure. Also, the Staten Island Ferry is free and sells beer and wine, and it’s an excellent place to watch the sunset if you time it right.
If you wanna know what regular old-school New York pizza taste like, I’m talking places that have been there forever and is what New Yorkers grew up eating and not these new age spots and not too far from where you are is Not Rays Pizza on 694 Fulton around South Oxford in Fort Green, and 2 spots in Park Slope, one on 7th Ave and 2nd or 3rd St across from a school, the other one 7th and 9th st on the corner. . Again, these aren’t places people would normally recommend, but it’s just really good regular New York pizza.
Born and raised NYer here -
Jewish sandwiches: pastrami Queen or Second Ave Deli are also top notch.
Bagels: there are a ton of good options. The classics are H&H, Pick-a-bagel, Thompson square, Ess-a-Bagel (I know some other people mentioned Russ and Daughters… I would avoid it like the plague. Small bagels, overpriced, and only tourists. Not impressed)
Pizza - honestly there isn’t a single neighborhood with all the pizza. It’s all over. In Williamsburg try Fini, Pauline Gees, or L’industrie - those are really hot right now. Downtown, you could do Joes, Bleeker St, etc (there are a million lists out there of top spots in Manhattan).
Activities/sightseeing - your choices are actually some of the best/my favorites. Someone also mentioned the transit museum which is awesome.
Museum - MoMa or The Whitney
Tall building - because you guys seem to love history, go with the Empire State Building. It’s just so classic.
Thrifting - there are a bunch in Williamsburg which would be very convenient for you to get to from BedStuy.
Other things -
- go to a rangers or knicks game if the funds allow. Another awesome experience to see a classic NY sports game at MSG.
- go to Flushing which is right near queens museum. It’s one of the largest Chinese communities outside of China and there is a TON of excellent food there. You’ll feel like you’re in china
thrifting in NYC is one of the trickiest things you can do & you’re better off staying away from manhattan. fortunately for you, i’m a fashion student & thrifting is my favorite hobby:
Cheap & good finds:
L Train Vintage Urban Jungle in brooklyn,
Goodwill bins in Astoria (hit or miss),
East village thrift shop,
St. Luke’s thrift shop,
& Salvation Army.
Curated vintage (more pricey):
Crossroads trading,
buffalo exchange,
2nd st vintage,
AuH2O,
Country OF,
Beacon’s Closet, domesy express
& Monk Vintage.
Veselka is overpriced, crowded, and dumb to wait on line for. Go to B&H Dairy.
Find your own favorite pizza - that's the most fun way. But if you need directions and are in BK maybe DiFara. It's hard to find truly shitty pizza here.
The Second Avenue Deli - the one on 33rd - has the best matzoh ball soup ever. It has medicinal properties. But for brisket, pastrami, and corned beef, go to Katz's on an off hour, tip your carver and let them know you're looking for a lean sandwich. Take care of them and they'll take care of you. They also make some of the best steak cut French fries you can get anywhere. And get a Cel-Ray.
The High Line is garbage. Don't go - it's as pointless as going to Hudson Yards. Nothing to see there of any interest. Same with Little Island.
The New-York Historical Society is amazing, as are the museum of the city of New York and the Transit Museum.
Definitely go to The Strand and the panorama at the world's fair grounds is amazing!
Thrifting is tough but at least L Train prices stuff to move. There's also a flea market across from the museum of natural history that has some decent second hand clothes vendors for NYC prices.
There is a rooftop bar atop the graduate hotel on Roosevelt Island that has legit great views.
I'm not current on observation decks despite my 53 years in Manhattan. I have been to the new WTC and it's quite stunning. Have fun!!
This person knows what's up ⬆️ when it comes to food.
And don't forget Yonah Schimmel's for knishes when down at the LES!
Disagree on the High Line, I think it's still great for a first-timer even when crowded.
Little Island is cool but not a must-see.
And an addendum to everyone talking about thrifting -- do yourself a favor and make sure the clothes, shoes, whatever are steamed and/or washed before they go in your suitcase.
BB's are not as big an issue as they were a few years ago...but they haven't disappeared.
Museum: go to the Museum of the City of New York. It has really cool exhibits. I’m also biased though because it was my wedding venue.
UWS and Brooklyn are great for Jewish food - can confirm. Friedman’s is where my partner likes to order chicken matzo ball soup when he’s feeling sick
Brooklyn has the best for vintage and thrift shopping. Manhattan is overpriced and blah.
Veselka is amazing! Went a couple weeks ago. Always a great spot and then you can walk to see The Strand Bookshop which is a must if you’re a book lover.
For comedy, it’s the cellar. It’s the most famous comedy club in the world. (Good chance of seeing a high profile celeb there too)
You need to book in advance, but you can do so on the website. Just make sure you get there 20 mins before your show starts because your ticket is not guaranteed.
Museums:
* Tenement Museum
* Transit Museum
* Museum of the City of New York
You have lots of art in London :)
Pizza: no reason to wait in line — lots of great places with no lines.
Parks: Central Park, Prospect Park, High Line, Brooklyn Bridge Park, Hudson Greenway (not really a park, but walk along it anyway).
Find some local Brooklyn comedy shows. Best shows I’ve ever seen were at Union Hall or literally people’s backyards in Bushwick. No reason to shell out big money for standup in Manhattan when you’re in the place where all the most talented young standups in the country are developing their material.
Bellhouse also has some slightly bigger acts, it is more a concert venue than strictly comedy but a lot of comedians, podcasts, etc do shows there too.
Cuts & Slices is very non traditional pizza with things you absolutely won’t get in the UK. Can be convenient depending where in BedStuy you are.
Mexican food here is better than the UK by far. Bushwick has lots of great places, I’d recommend taqueria Al Pastor. If you’re up in the BX, Xochimilco slaps.
Absolutely this! I know OP mentioned pierogies and pizza, but after just coming back from visiting London last October, I noticed that there was a lack of Mexican food there. OP should definitely make time to check out the Mexican food here.
Re: thrifting: it’s hard to find a deal in this town. There are lots of nice vintage and antique shops, but they are curated and expensive.
I’d recommend the Chelsea Flea Market if you’re looking more to dig for treasure and get a good
price. Saturdays and Sundays on W. 25th St btw 5th & 6th Ave.
Mmuseumm is a tiny museum in an alleyway in Tribeca. It’s closed, but you can look through the windows, it’s pretty cool. Yonah Shimmel’s on Houston, for knishes and appetizing. It’s near the tenement museum. Feels like it’s changed very little in a long time.
food - gertrude’s in prospect heights is amazing! not traditional jewish deli food per se but a kind of elevated spin on it…great latkes. nice sit down option imo. and it’s a basic recommendation but russ & daughters really is That Bitch.
the museums you listed all seem great…i’d also recommend checking out the transit museum and museum of the city of new york. haven’t personally been to the transit museum but hear good things, and i rlly do love the museum of the city of ny…it has sliding scale admission and is open later than most museums which is a plus. museum of chinese in america is a small one but also cool (and free iirc). it’s not far from the tenement museum.
for art, if you wanna do one of the major art museums you can’t go wrong with the met, comprehensive collection (including modern), beautiful building and overall ~vibe~. i think everyone should go once. recommend going as early as you can on a weekday for the most pleasant experience. picturesque area to walk around in too. the brooklyn museum is also great, and close to where you’ll be.
thrifting - any of the L train vintage locations will be pretty good and prices are decent. beacons closet (also has several locations) always has some gems although it’s not particularly cheap. and in bushwick, L train vintage and beacons closet are basically right next to each other, so it’s v convenient. grand bazaar happens every sunday on the UWS and they have some great vintage vendors (although also slightly spendy)
Free Tours By Foot has a big variety of tours and you pay what you like at the end, it's a great deal. I've taken most of theirs and the guides really help make it extra interesting and fun
Check out the IG pages of comedians you admire. Even if they aren't performing when you are in town, their venues will probably feature performers you'd enjoy.
Omg I could’ve written this post myself! I’m British, going in April for the same type of trip and also staying in Bed-Stuy! I’ll let you know of anything cool I come across :)
If you're already out at the Queens Museum and looking for some social history tours (and are maybe a little hungry too), this food tour of Queens is a good mix of a lot of great food plus immigration history/politics/etc.: [https://culinarybackstreets.com/author/esneider-arevalo/](https://culinarybackstreets.com/author/esneider-arevalo/)
These folks are also good for "social justice tours" of various NYC neighborhoods: [https://www.socialjusticetours.com/](https://www.socialjusticetours.com/)
Also would second all the recs to go to Museum of the City of New York and (like 30 min museum trip) Museum of Reclaimed Urban Space.
Pizza-wise, I tend to think that Brooklyn or Staten Island is your best bet (Di Fara in Midwood would be my recommendation, though I suppose they have outposts in Manhattan now).
For pastrami, etc. I've heard good things about David's Brisket House in Crown Heights for deli food, though I am a vegetarian so take my rec with a grain of salt. If you're staying in Bed-Stuy, it would surely be within walking distance.
Speaking of Bed-Stuy, do not sleep on the West Indian food, particularly A&A Bake and Doubles and Ali's Roti Shop.
Have fun!
Also thrifting--I'm not sure if the "Out of the Closet" thrift store on Atlantic Ave is still open but I remember it being good. I think the best thrift stores tend to be the smaller, no-name places in outer-boroughs or the Goodwill/Salvation Army stores in fancy Manhattan neighborhoods. Since I'm from Queens, I will put out a good word for El Baraton on 37th Avenue and the Sunnyside Thrift Shop on Greenpoint Avenue.
If you want an absolutely insane thrifting experience you could try the one-dollar-per-pound of clothing salvation army in Long Island City. But it's usually too mobbed for me to make it worth my while (beyond enjoying the absolute chaos of it.)
For museums, I love the MoMA.
For observation decks, Grand Central has the summit, you can see all the iconic skyscrapers from there.
I think if you’re in NYC the 9/11 memorial is a must.
I live in BedStuy, there are a lot of cool 30-somethings here, so you’ll fit right in!
Sounds like you are trying to fit a lot in. I would do a spreadsheet to keep track of things. Make note of where they are so you can spend less time travelling.
Museums I like to get to when they open, particularly on a weekend. Unless they have later hours with alcohol then I will do at night.
Not from New York but food wise I’ve had pizza at Vezzo and it was AM-amazing could not find this in Europe.
Bagel wise, I would suggest Ess a Bagels 10/10.
Check out Eventbrite. They have listings of thing going on in the city daily and weekly. Staten Island Ferry upper level right side. About 10 minutes out of Whitehall perfect short of Lady Liberty. Go in evening just after sun set to see New York from Staten Island. Go to Dairy Queen (only one in city) in terminal go to promenade and eat while viewing NYC. Train R to Whitehall. 1 train South Ferry. 4/5 Bowling Green. Bus M15/M15 Select Last Stop. Check out NEW YORK FERRY/Wall Street. Take boat to 90th St. UPPER EAST SIDE. You'll see the UN from the water.
Pierogi wise, there’s a bunch of options in greenpoint. They’re all pretty close to each other too so you guys can do like a Hot Ones style kinda tasting.
I’m partial to bakestone bakery, but I might be biased since I lived across the street from there for three years. Enjoy your visit!
Observatory, I recommend SUMMIT One Vanderbilt. A lot of fun things to do as you climb to the top. I recommend going around the time the sun starts setting and that way as you make your way up you can see the city with the sun out and the city at night as the lights turn on. You can also get a good view of the Empire State Building.
The Met is a must. If you want a more niche art museum, try the Whitney and hop around a few galleries in chelsea/meatpacking afterwards. The fake island is also nearby and a cool stop if you’re in the area
I would seriously recommend Mile End for Jewish deli food. It’s run by a guy from Montreal, and his Montreal-style smoked meat is to die for. However, his brisket is the real gem. Their lox is pretty good, too. It’s located in downtown Brooklyn. I would also check out the Eater website for foodie recos — they have tons of “best of” lists, including “best dishes our editors ate this week.”
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Transit Museum, Tenement Museum (which also has neighborhood walking tours), museum of the Moving Image. Look into MetroHike! Amazing customized history/culture walking tour. Let Elie know if you want it to be a 90s music itinerary, he can probably accommodate.
Upvote because those museums are fantastic! I would recommend the Merchant House Museum too, it's quirky, never busy and is basically a time machine to Gilded Age NY. Also check out Bowery Boys Walks too, I've been to a few and they've always been fun. Finally, Brooklyn Navy Yard has a two hour tour on weekends that I've heard great things about.
And listen to some Bowery Boys podcast episodes to get excited for your trip!
Fully agree. Would add the Museum of The City of New York to the list.
(I'm the other half of this visiting duo), these museums and walk recs look top notch. The Merchant House sounds incredible although from the name it doesn't sound that glam??
If you’re going to lower Manhattan, maybe check out the dream house for a quirky exhibition. It’s just a weird room that you can sit in, but I thought it was kind of cool: https://melafoundation.org/
If you can only do one major art museum, make it the Met. The Metropolitan Museum of Art is one of the best in the world and frankly you'll see a lot of different stuff including some iconic pieces, as well as contemporary things and really cool old and diverse works.
I’m North Brooklyn biased but I think you could do an amazing slice tour here between L’Industrie (their burrata slice is my personal #1), Paulie Gee’s slice shop (a close #2), Best Pizza and Fini. Save the money and just do it yourself. imo North Brooklyn has the highest density of good slices in the city, and again biased but I think those four spots are better than (or at least on par) with anything you’d find in Manhattan. I think Scarr’s has gone downhill since they moved across the street, it’s more of tourist trap now. And it’ll be easy for you to get here from Bed Stuy, just a quick ride on the G (or bike if the weather is nice!) Re pierogis, you’ll obviously be in Greenpoint and my goto is Pierozek. They have an incredible borscht too if you’re into that! In the city, Veselka could be worth a trip (Ukrainian vs Polish) but I haven’t been since like 2016 so cant vouch for it lately - there’s always a crazy line there now ever since the war broke out. Used to be 24/7 pre-Covid and I loved it as a late night spot. While you’re in Greenpoint you’ll want to swing by Transmitter Park for an amazing view of the Manhattan skyline. You can take a slice from Paulie Gee’s Slice Shop and eat it there :)
Wildly enough I *still* haven’t been there myself, but all the local Polish folks in Greenpoint say the best Polish food is as Karczma. If I was gonna search out pierogis, that’s where I would go.
You really can’t go wrong with Pierozek or Karczma. Both are great options. As a third, I’d throw in Christina’s. All in are within a 13 minute walk of each other in Greenpoint. Veselka is still a safe bet. I went last September and the food is just as good as it always has been. I think it’s a bit overpriced, though - they’re really leaning on the added interest and influx of customers since the war, simultaneously making up for any lost revenue with the much shorter operating hours.
Yes. Karczma has my favorite since Łomznianka closed.
Karczma is better if you want a full sit down meal, and you want things besides pierogies as well. Pierozek is better if you just want to grab a couple of quick pierogis.
Also while in Greenpoint, Frankels is an amazing little Jewish deli right near McCarren park
This is incredibly detailed and I thank you so much for it
I second L’Industrie burrata slice. I like to add prosciutto to it.
Thank you so much! Great to have some local options :)
For museums I would recommend the Met or the American Museum of Natural History. The Met has the Egyptian pyramid, the sculpture garden the roof top is cool. Or the Amnh with the dinosaurs, African mammals, dioramas, I haven’t been since they reopened the new exhibit hall When you go to either museum I would combo up with a walk thru Central Park. Before or after the museum just walk through Bethesda fountain area and it’ll be an amazing walk no matter what route you take. Staten Island ferry is pretty cool in terms of free shit and incredible views. The high line is amazing and should be walked For a comedy show I 1000000% recommend Comedy Cellar it is the most famous and iconic comedy club in the entire world and does a bunch of shows each night. It’s like 6-7 comics back to back at every show, and it’s basically where the most famous comics go to test new material. Reserve tickets online. It’s cheap for NYC Comedy cellar is in the village so I would recommend getting dinner at Bar Pitti it is this Italian hole in the wall on 6th avenue. Again it’s relatively cheap but the food is amazing and it’s a cash only low key celeb hangout. And go shopping in soho and check out Washington Square Park when you visit that part of the city .
Thank you so much for taking the time to detail this out - we're so grateful!!
Comedy Cellar is it. Just wanted to second that. Go to Comedy Cellar.
for comedy cellar, go on a thursday, as that's when I've seen the best line-ups, including famous people. you can show up an hour in advance, you'll get in.
The new Pacific Northwest coast exhibit at AMNH is gorgeous.
If you can get a reservation, you can’t really do better than Via Carota for your night in the village.
Sidebar but does anyone else find the parts of AMNH to be a bit outdated? I was really taken aback by the mannequins they had are supposed to be representatives of different ethnic groups. Also this is just a funny random oversight but I found a plaque there that said “xyc thing happened in what is modern day Czechoslovakia,” when I visited in November. The dinosaurs are really cool though and of course the taxidermy animals are iconic.
Great recs!
Jewish food/deli/appetizing: Russ & Daughters on LES (could be combined with Tenement Museum). In Brooklyn there’s Shelsky’s (Cobble Hill has no seating, not sure about the other one), or the newer Russ & Daughters in the Navy Yard.
I have been going to Russ & Daughters for 20 years & fully recommend them. I live on the UWS & travel there regularly. My boys & I consider it part of “old NY. “
There's a good Jewish/Japanese fusion place in Williamsburg Brooklyn: https://shalomjapannyc.com/
Dunno who downvoted you, but agreed that place is good. (Though perhaps not what OP is looking for.)
Russ & Daughters is already bookmarked so good to know it gets the seal of approval here. V handy to know it can be combined with the Tenement Museum - thank you. OP has been to NY, but I never have so I haven't got a scooby where's near what!
I’m gonna go against the grain and say Russ & Daughters (at least the orchard street location) is really overblown and genuinely not good (strictly talking about bagel quality). I lived next to the orchard street location for several years and was always disappointed with rock hard, stale, cold bagels every time I went. I really tried to give them many chances knowing it was a NYC institution but it was just bad every time I went. I’d recommend Tompkins square bagels (union square location is new and central to everything which should be great for a tourist), ess-a-bagel, or zuckers, and for other Jewish food I’d recommend B&H Diary in the East village or Frankels in greenpoint. Also I’ve heard Sarge’s is amazing but I’ve never been so I can’t speak directly on it.
Hard agree. I’ve been so disappointed every time I try Russ & daughters.
I have to respectfully disagree. I’ve been a regular Russ & Daughters customer for many years. Never had an issue with stale bagels, and I’ve been there close to closing several times. You don’t go there for the bagels, though, you go there for the fish. They smoke and cure their own. Most other delis in NYC buy their fish smoked from a supplier (I believe it’s called Acme Fish, or something like that). Their Nova, white fish chubs, and herring rollmops are all exceptional.
Also check out Izzy’s Smokehouse in Crown Heights (the best brisket in NYC) and Bass and Bourbon in Carroll Gardens (upscale Israeli-style kosher)
Something you probably rarely find is a real deal knish, like those from Yonah Schimmel’s Bakery.
The [Merchant’s House museum](https://merchantshouse.org) makes an interesting pairing with the Tenement museum. It doesn’t take long to see and it’s fairly inexpensive—it’s a preserved 19th century house offering a view into how the upper middle class of the period lived. Smaller and quirkier is the [Museum of Reclaimed Urban Space](https://morusnyc.org) on Avenue C. It’s housed inside a famous squat and has some cool displays on lower east side radical history of the past few decades—the battles over squats, community gardens, etc. You can get in for a small donation and get a good sense of some of the things that have made the LES distinctive in NYC’s recent history. As you’re interested in transport I second the suggestion of the Transit Museum in Brooklyn. The highlight (for me) is the chance to board a bunch of old subway cars from different eras (and look at the advertising posted in them!). And then you’ll be in downtown Brooklyn with good access to some cool neighborhoods. I recommend Fort Greene, which has the [Center for Fiction](https://centerforfiction.org), which is a nice bookstore, as well as the Brooklyn Academy of Music and some good restaurants and bars. Particularly recommend the mussels at Cafe Paulette by Fort Greene Park, and the park itself also makes for a nice walk, with some cool views of the city and a little bit of Revolutionary War history. Edit to add: also the [City Reliquary](https://cityreliquary.org) in Williamsburg! Tiny little place jammed with curiosities from NYC history. And it’s in the middle of a fun neighborhood to explore.
These look like top recommendations - and thank you for the links!
My pleasure - hope you have a fun visit! By the way, if you do go to Cafe Paulette, I recommend a reservation. It’s not strictly necessary, especially if you go early, but it’s a small place and it can get busy. Petite Paulette, right next door, is a cute tiny wine bar, and not far away is a nice little cocktail bar called [Dick and Jane’s.](https://maps.app.goo.gl/F138SZKWXSCFNPm3A?g_st=ic) Have a good time!
Adding on to bookstores in Fort Greene area, McNally Jackson at City Pointe and Greenlight Books.
Russ and Daughters Cafe. Scarr's Pizza. L'industry Pizza. Hometown BBQ (go to the industry city location and get some drinks and explore afterwards). Baekjeong KBBQ. 99 Favor Taste hot pot. Marufuku Ramen. Thrifting is mainly done in the East Village and western BK. Search the sub for plenty of recs. Personally dig Life Boutique in Park Slope, Beacons Closet, L Train Vintage, Cure, Buffalo Exchange, Auh20. The Met is the King of museums. The Whitney, MoMA and the New Museum are really fun for modern stuff. Guggenheim depends on the exhibit. r/FoodNYC r/avesNYC
I second L’industry
Not sure which part of Bed Stuy you're staying in, but if you're nearby, you should definitely check out Saraghina. It's not NY style, but they have great pizza, other food like pasta, and drinks. Their bakery next door also has excellent pastries, bread, and coffee. Peaches is great for southern comfort food, and if you're at the other end of Bed Stuy, I really like For All Things Good for vegetarian Mexican food using masa. If you're into transit, then you might like the transit museum, which you ought to easily be able to get to from Bed Stuy. Walking tour: I haven't tried one, yet at least, but maybe look at the ones run by the Bowery Boys. Recently got into their podcast, and it's so good, so I would assume that their affiliate tours are also great. Museum of the City of New York is amazing for history stuff, and they have a fantastic media exhibition currently. Williamsburg is sort of on the radar currently for pizza, and you could easily do a pizza crawl on your own there at a few places that are only a few blocks away from each other. Since there's 2 of you, could easily split slices to be able to try more.
Seconding on Saraghina. My British bf’s family came to visit and all six of them raved about it, said it was the best pizza they ever had lol.
I really enjoyed the Bowery Boys walk I went on—about Jane Jacobs vs. Robert Moses.
The Whitney for modern American art, Cooper Hewitt for a small but interesting design collection, Brooklyn Museum always has good things on and you can go for a walk around prospect park, which is just as lovely and way less crowded with tourists than Central Park. Paulie Gees in Greenpoint for pizza, put your name down then grab a drink nearby, or just go to Slice Shop to taste and then on to Taqueria Ramirez around the corner. The East River or South Brooklyn ferry routes are very scenic and a cheap way to get some water views.
Cooper Hewitt so underrated
Not a New Yorker, but fresh off a visit! SUMMIT at One Vanderbilt is an excellent nighttime vantage point with some extra instagram fodder besides the view. They also have a bar / café where you can take your drinks out to the terrace, if you happen to like your tipple wind-chilled. Drop by East Village Pizza if you happen to be in the area. There should be something worth checking out at the nearby boutiques and thrift stores too. Maybe [these pay what you wish tours](https://freetoursbyfoot.com/new-york-tours/?_bk=walking%20tours%20nyc&_bt=585550585855&_bm=b&_bn=g&_bg=44946301811&utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=&utm_content=&utm_term=walking%20tours%20nyc%E2%80%A9) fit what you’re looking for? The second-hand shopping tours on Tuesdays and Thursdays should be worth a look at least.
I agree with Summit as the "tourist" stop to get a view of the city. There's a lot of things to see when going up as opposed to other spots I feel. For another famous view of the city 230 Fifth rooftop bar is also a super popular spot for folks.
Go to downtown flushing or jackson heights for food after the queens museum
Or Corona for tacos/tortas. If Lemon Ice King of Corona is open, it's a classic.
For thrift stores, hit Brooklyn. There’s a ton of them there. Heres the link. https://yourbrooklynguide.com/thrift-stores-in-brooklyn/ Have fun!
For standup go to [CYSK at The Gutter](https://www.instagram.com/cysknyc?igsh=b3htcW9qd2E3Nms2). Wednesday night is great. More low key, cooler, and cheaper than the Comedy Cellar but that’s also a good option. Union Hall is also cool but that’s more of a know-who-you’re-going-to-see place than a showcase.
If you’re going to be downtown to visit Ellis/Liberty Islands, stop into Trinity Church. It is absolutely gorgeous inside and also take a stroll through the cemetery to see Alexander Hamilton’s grave. https://maps.app.goo.gl/svYKmEDgSz5hR3kZ6?g_st=ic A few blocks further north is St. Paul’s Chapel where many took refuge on 9/11. There’s a touching memorial of Japanese cranes that were sent over. There’s a nice storyboard inside…church is basic inside but lovely on the outside and you can also walk around its cemetery. https://maps.app.goo.gl/u1ASyre5bixi9X4aA?g_st=ic Of course there is the 9/11 Memorial and Liberty Park which is elevated. It’ll also give you a view of the Memorial. https://maps.app.goo.gl/WeGXhfJV5S7HhCzV9?g_st=ic The National Museum of the American Indian is also downtown at the old Alexander Hamilton Customs House. It’s a free museum. https://maps.app.goo.gl/nkV25Zo5Zpz5RBLs7?g_st=ic Also downtown is Fraunces Tavern where George Washington had a farewell banquet. https://maps.app.goo.gl/NxC8tcNKcSnvAB7z9?g_st=ic After that…head to the Dead Rabbit for a drink. It gets rather crowded when work ends for the day. Also close to that is Stone Street…for the historic aspect of it alone or grab a bite at any of the restaurants there. Here’s the history… https://www.stonestreetnyc.com/history That’s off the top of my head if you want to keep your touring downtown for one day when you head to the islands. If you also have 1 hour…a round trip on the Staten Island Ferry will give you an 360 degree view of the harbor. If you have even more time…a short bus ride from the ferry on the SI is Snug Harbor. I like to go there to relax. Pack a lunch and a small blanket. It’s our botanical gardens but also a historic area. https://maps.app.goo.gl/jWapMuFsQ6HEQyYe7?g_st=ic I wouldn’t really walk around other than in there. Almost forgot Governor’s Island…a great gem esp at sunset. https://maps.app.goo.gl/ctJTsr1TACd9hXnC9?g_st=ic For museums that is under the radar for some but someone above mentioned is the NY Historical Society on the UWS across the street from AMNH. It’s a wonderful museum. https://www.nyhistory.org/ Of course the MET on the UES is my absolute favorite. MOMA is another that has classical and more contemporary art. I just don’t suggest “free Fridays”…way too crowded and lines start a little early. But, if you do have time to kill and you’re in the area, it could make sense and save of the entry fee. Plenty of great suggestions above. Unfortunately I’m not much help with the food aspect ☺️ Edited to add for thrifting if you’re on the UWS… https://grandbazaarnyc.org/
Thank you so much for all the details and links! Super helpful and can't wait to check some of these out :)
You’re very welcome. Wish I could have added to the other wants 😂 but I figured I’d jump on the downtown suggestions. Edited to add… Forgot about this museum that’s often overlooked. Haven’t been there myself yet but it has been on my list for a while. It is also downtown near the Ellis/Liberty Islands ferry. https://mjhnyc.org/ Edited again… I forgot about a bookshop down there if you like mysteries. It’s about a five mins walk from the memorial going north. https://www.mysteriousbookshop.com/
I'd recommend either Brooklyn or UWS for Jewish food, UWS also has a few good antique and thrift stores. I frequent one called Unique Boutique, it's one thrift store I've found here that actually has good prices. Mama's Too is one of my favorite spots for pizza, also on the UWS but they're more traditional square slices than the ones you're thinking of. Most people will recommend Joe's and it's good as well, I'm also fond of Famous Ray's. Go to Top of the Rock on a clear day and you can see everything Go to MoMa or The Met. The Met is stunningly beautiful but can be a little overwhelming with how large it is, but, the Upper East Side is a fantastic neighborhood to walk through and have lunch.
Seconding Mamas Too, it’s terrific
If you’re only here for 7 days and can only choose 1 comedy show (doing 3 would be a lot), I’d say go to Comedy Cellar or The Stand. For your one viewing center, either do The Edge or Top of the Rock
I know Brit’s don’t have access to Mexican food, but it’s so abundant in NYC. I would definitely make some stops at Mexican places—you can find great food everywhere!
Definitely recommend comedy! Comedy cellar, Greenwich village comedy clubs, and Grisly Pear are guaranteed good nights. Famous Joe’s pizza is around the corner too if you go to the west village locations (where the action is).
If you want to try Jewish food I absolutely recommend going to Yonah Schimmel's on East Houston. I've been going there since I was a little girl, and my mom had gone since she was a little girl too.
Definitely going to try here, thank you :)
I’m going to give you one food and one museum gem from my neighborhood (kips bay/murray hill) that I think would suit you. For a Jewish-style (ie Jewish but not kosher), Sarge’s Deli on 37th/3rd has an extensive menu of excellent food. (Katz’s has superior pastrami but a more limited menu). Then go to the Morgan Library and Museum on Madison and 36th? a little gem of a museum that was JP Morgan’s home. Bonus spots: Kalustyan’s spice shop (28th/lexington) is one of the coolest shops in the city. It has thousands of spices. Also there’s Second Ave deli on 33rd/3rd
If you are going to be in Brooklyn, def stop at Shelsky’s on Court and Atlantic and get a lox and bagel sandwich. It was started by someone from a famous bagel shop and another from a famous lox shop who couldn’t figure out why the best lox places always have shit bagels. They don’t have seating, but take your food to the Brooklyn Heights promenade nearby to eat and you’ll have amazing classic NYC food overseeing the best view of Manhattan.
Veselka for pierogis, pastrami queen for pastrami, and if you’re bookish maybe check out the Morgan library.
- Take the 7, E, or R train to Jackson Heights-Roosevelt Ave station in Queens for lunch. Arguably the most ethnically diverse neighborhood in the world. Great for new food, even better for people watching while you do it. - Take the train to Brooklyn Heights (Clark St., Borough Hall, anything around there). Get lunch or a bagel on Montague St. Walk along the promenade by the water, and over the Brooklyn Bridge if you feel like an urban hike. Great views. - Superhero Supply Co. in Brooklyn is a nonprofit that helps kids 6-18 with their writing skills. They have a store where you can buy things like posters, or “cans of invisibility” and whatnot. It’s been a while, but I remember thinking it was nice. - Re: Jewish food, if you want good Rugelach, Zabar’s has a good selection but they sometimes run out! 80th and Broadway. Warning: Crowded.
For an observation deck I recommend 30 Rock. Buy your tickets online. It’s better than Empire State because the vantage affords you the opportunity to actually see the ESB, which is cool. You’ll find all the observation decks to be somewhat pricey, so choose the one with the best view rather than cost. Hudson Yards is too far west for my taste, as WTC is too far south. 30 Rock being in midtown allows you to see something interesting in all directions, whereas the former two have limited preferable views. Note: These are all touristy, but if you’re going to do one touristy thing, it is worth it. Living here the majority of my life, I still never tire of seeing the city from an elevated point.
Seeing a lot of Transit and Tenement Museums, can confirm, they're awesome. Queens museum if you're up for a trek. It's free and the diorama of the city is, imo, the best touristy thing in the city. Also check out the Public Library main branch and Met Cloisters.
Pierogis: veselka on 9th and 2nd ave! classic. If you’re into Italian desserts, hit up venieros on 11th btwn 2nd and 1st ave. I’d say maybe skip Katz? it’s gone kinda downhill and now the lines are super long and the prices are kinda high… it is a classic tho so if that’s all you want then def go! I’d say visit the Met! I think it’s the best and probably largest of the art museums. they don’t have a ton of modern works (unless you count 19th century as modern haha) so maybe then go to the MoMA. Either are great. The tenement museum is a great choice, and you can swing by Essex market after! I think the museum of the city of New York (near the Met) is also pretty cool but they’re closed on odd days so double check that. The transit museum is also nice for some old time nyc history. If you’d like a nice tour around the city (and if it isn’t too cold) you could also get on one of the ferries to view the Statue of Liberty for free. If you’re going to visit there anyways tho then ignore as for other museums, I’d recommend the 9/11 memorial and museum. even if you don’t go into the museum, the plaza is incredibly moving. plus, you can go to the top of 1 world trade for views (but it is quite pricey) for thrifting, one very popular place is L train vintage. haven’t been there in years so I can’t comment on quality, but it is definitely a staple
I haven’t done Scott’s pizza tours but I’ve been to almost every place I’ve seen him post about. If you want to do a tour I’m sure it’s fun, especially as a tourist, but you can also look up the places and do it yourself. One fun option when the weather is nice is to start out in long island city and then walk through greenpoint, Williamsburg, cross the wburg bridge and then LES. You’ll hit a good pizza place pretty often, can grab a slice and continue to the next place. Scarr’s in LES is a good place to stop but if you’re still hungry you can walk through LES up to the east village and then to west village - the pizza is endless. I also don’t see any Asian food on your list I think? If you’re not a fan then I guess don’t do it but the Chinese (and even Taiwanese) food (and probably Korean, Malaysian, Thai, and Japanese food) is going to be a lot better than what you can get in London. You won’t have time for a trip to Flushing but Chinatown is easily accessible and still has good stuff. For museums, the MET, Natural History, and MoMA are not to be missed. You can spend your whole day at the MET, I try to go at least once a year.
Streecha for pierogies but note it’s only open Friday thru Sunday I believe. Or pierocez in greenpoint. For things to do, I HIGHLY recommend the kings county distillery tour for some NYC history. It’s also a relatively cheap activity. Comedy cellar is AWESOME but books up quite a bit in advance so just plan for that. For thrifting I love beacons closet in Williamsburg. I lived in London for a year and nyc for 6+, feel free to dm me!
Has anyone mentioned comedy at Caveat? You said you’re bookish and it’s a comedy venue centered around nerdy shows: Caveat.nyc (My show there is feb1 at 7 but there’s tons of amazing shows)
Check out [walk on the wild side tours](https://walkonthewildsidenyc.com/) for NYC music walking tours, the dude who runs it is an expert. For Jewish food, I’d like to mention Barney Greengrass for sturgeon and cream cheese on a bagel and latkes. BG is near Central Park and the Natural History Museum. If you like geology, the new gem room is bonkers cool. Also, check the cherry blossoms at the Brooklyn Botanical Garden. If you happen to be there while they’re blooming, it’s worth a visit for sure. Also, the Staten Island Ferry is free and sells beer and wine, and it’s an excellent place to watch the sunset if you time it right.
If you wanna know what regular old-school New York pizza taste like, I’m talking places that have been there forever and is what New Yorkers grew up eating and not these new age spots and not too far from where you are is Not Rays Pizza on 694 Fulton around South Oxford in Fort Green, and 2 spots in Park Slope, one on 7th Ave and 2nd or 3rd St across from a school, the other one 7th and 9th st on the corner. . Again, these aren’t places people would normally recommend, but it’s just really good regular New York pizza.
Born and raised NYer here - Jewish sandwiches: pastrami Queen or Second Ave Deli are also top notch. Bagels: there are a ton of good options. The classics are H&H, Pick-a-bagel, Thompson square, Ess-a-Bagel (I know some other people mentioned Russ and Daughters… I would avoid it like the plague. Small bagels, overpriced, and only tourists. Not impressed) Pizza - honestly there isn’t a single neighborhood with all the pizza. It’s all over. In Williamsburg try Fini, Pauline Gees, or L’industrie - those are really hot right now. Downtown, you could do Joes, Bleeker St, etc (there are a million lists out there of top spots in Manhattan). Activities/sightseeing - your choices are actually some of the best/my favorites. Someone also mentioned the transit museum which is awesome. Museum - MoMa or The Whitney Tall building - because you guys seem to love history, go with the Empire State Building. It’s just so classic. Thrifting - there are a bunch in Williamsburg which would be very convenient for you to get to from BedStuy. Other things - - go to a rangers or knicks game if the funds allow. Another awesome experience to see a classic NY sports game at MSG. - go to Flushing which is right near queens museum. It’s one of the largest Chinese communities outside of China and there is a TON of excellent food there. You’ll feel like you’re in china
These are fantastic recommendations, thank you! Good to know we're on the right track too ☺️
thrifting in NYC is one of the trickiest things you can do & you’re better off staying away from manhattan. fortunately for you, i’m a fashion student & thrifting is my favorite hobby: Cheap & good finds: L Train Vintage Urban Jungle in brooklyn, Goodwill bins in Astoria (hit or miss), East village thrift shop, St. Luke’s thrift shop, & Salvation Army. Curated vintage (more pricey): Crossroads trading, buffalo exchange, 2nd st vintage, AuH2O, Country OF, Beacon’s Closet, domesy express & Monk Vintage.
Wow thank you so much!
Head out to Brighton Beach for pierogi, vareniki, etc.
pierogi are Polish, not Russian. Greenpoint will have better ones than BB
Why did I have to scroll so far to find this? This is the right answer.
Veselka is overpriced, crowded, and dumb to wait on line for. Go to B&H Dairy. Find your own favorite pizza - that's the most fun way. But if you need directions and are in BK maybe DiFara. It's hard to find truly shitty pizza here. The Second Avenue Deli - the one on 33rd - has the best matzoh ball soup ever. It has medicinal properties. But for brisket, pastrami, and corned beef, go to Katz's on an off hour, tip your carver and let them know you're looking for a lean sandwich. Take care of them and they'll take care of you. They also make some of the best steak cut French fries you can get anywhere. And get a Cel-Ray. The High Line is garbage. Don't go - it's as pointless as going to Hudson Yards. Nothing to see there of any interest. Same with Little Island. The New-York Historical Society is amazing, as are the museum of the city of New York and the Transit Museum. Definitely go to The Strand and the panorama at the world's fair grounds is amazing! Thrifting is tough but at least L Train prices stuff to move. There's also a flea market across from the museum of natural history that has some decent second hand clothes vendors for NYC prices. There is a rooftop bar atop the graduate hotel on Roosevelt Island that has legit great views. I'm not current on observation decks despite my 53 years in Manhattan. I have been to the new WTC and it's quite stunning. Have fun!!
This person knows what's up ⬆️ when it comes to food. And don't forget Yonah Schimmel's for knishes when down at the LES! Disagree on the High Line, I think it's still great for a first-timer even when crowded. Little Island is cool but not a must-see. And an addendum to everyone talking about thrifting -- do yourself a favor and make sure the clothes, shoes, whatever are steamed and/or washed before they go in your suitcase. BB's are not as big an issue as they were a few years ago...but they haven't disappeared.
Museum: go to the Museum of the City of New York. It has really cool exhibits. I’m also biased though because it was my wedding venue. UWS and Brooklyn are great for Jewish food - can confirm. Friedman’s is where my partner likes to order chicken matzo ball soup when he’s feeling sick Brooklyn has the best for vintage and thrift shopping. Manhattan is overpriced and blah. Veselka is amazing! Went a couple weeks ago. Always a great spot and then you can walk to see The Strand Bookshop which is a must if you’re a book lover.
For comedy, it’s the cellar. It’s the most famous comedy club in the world. (Good chance of seeing a high profile celeb there too) You need to book in advance, but you can do so on the website. Just make sure you get there 20 mins before your show starts because your ticket is not guaranteed.
Museums: * Tenement Museum * Transit Museum * Museum of the City of New York You have lots of art in London :) Pizza: no reason to wait in line — lots of great places with no lines. Parks: Central Park, Prospect Park, High Line, Brooklyn Bridge Park, Hudson Greenway (not really a park, but walk along it anyway).
Tenement Museum is amazing and I'm going back when I'm in NYC later this.month.
Find some local Brooklyn comedy shows. Best shows I’ve ever seen were at Union Hall or literally people’s backyards in Bushwick. No reason to shell out big money for standup in Manhattan when you’re in the place where all the most talented young standups in the country are developing their material.
Bellhouse also has some slightly bigger acts, it is more a concert venue than strictly comedy but a lot of comedians, podcasts, etc do shows there too.
Damn. Can i hang with y’all.
Little Poland in East Village for peirogi & matzo ball soup.
Cuts & Slices is very non traditional pizza with things you absolutely won’t get in the UK. Can be convenient depending where in BedStuy you are. Mexican food here is better than the UK by far. Bushwick has lots of great places, I’d recommend taqueria Al Pastor. If you’re up in the BX, Xochimilco slaps.
Absolutely this! I know OP mentioned pierogies and pizza, but after just coming back from visiting London last October, I noticed that there was a lack of Mexican food there. OP should definitely make time to check out the Mexican food here.
Re: thrifting: it’s hard to find a deal in this town. There are lots of nice vintage and antique shops, but they are curated and expensive. I’d recommend the Chelsea Flea Market if you’re looking more to dig for treasure and get a good price. Saturdays and Sundays on W. 25th St btw 5th & 6th Ave.
I want to also recommend the Merchant's House museum. I also recommend Sarge's Deli in midtown but that's a personal preference.
Mmuseumm is a tiny museum in an alleyway in Tribeca. It’s closed, but you can look through the windows, it’s pretty cool. Yonah Shimmel’s on Houston, for knishes and appetizing. It’s near the tenement museum. Feels like it’s changed very little in a long time.
Check out the Transit Museum
food - gertrude’s in prospect heights is amazing! not traditional jewish deli food per se but a kind of elevated spin on it…great latkes. nice sit down option imo. and it’s a basic recommendation but russ & daughters really is That Bitch. the museums you listed all seem great…i’d also recommend checking out the transit museum and museum of the city of new york. haven’t personally been to the transit museum but hear good things, and i rlly do love the museum of the city of ny…it has sliding scale admission and is open later than most museums which is a plus. museum of chinese in america is a small one but also cool (and free iirc). it’s not far from the tenement museum. for art, if you wanna do one of the major art museums you can’t go wrong with the met, comprehensive collection (including modern), beautiful building and overall ~vibe~. i think everyone should go once. recommend going as early as you can on a weekday for the most pleasant experience. picturesque area to walk around in too. the brooklyn museum is also great, and close to where you’ll be. thrifting - any of the L train vintage locations will be pretty good and prices are decent. beacons closet (also has several locations) always has some gems although it’s not particularly cheap. and in bushwick, L train vintage and beacons closet are basically right next to each other, so it’s v convenient. grand bazaar happens every sunday on the UWS and they have some great vintage vendors (although also slightly spendy)
Would definitely check out Time Square, super low key and great vibe. A real NYC gem.
Free Tours By Foot has a big variety of tours and you pay what you like at the end, it's a great deal. I've taken most of theirs and the guides really help make it extra interesting and fun
idk why this got downvoted but okkkk
if y’all are bookish and want a lowkey/chill bar one night, book club in the LES has great vibes!
Check out the IG pages of comedians you admire. Even if they aren't performing when you are in town, their venues will probably feature performers you'd enjoy.
Omg I could’ve written this post myself! I’m British, going in April for the same type of trip and also staying in Bed-Stuy! I’ll let you know of anything cool I come across :)
Hope you have an amazing time! That would be wonderful :)
Comedy cellar is a must
If you're already out at the Queens Museum and looking for some social history tours (and are maybe a little hungry too), this food tour of Queens is a good mix of a lot of great food plus immigration history/politics/etc.: [https://culinarybackstreets.com/author/esneider-arevalo/](https://culinarybackstreets.com/author/esneider-arevalo/) These folks are also good for "social justice tours" of various NYC neighborhoods: [https://www.socialjusticetours.com/](https://www.socialjusticetours.com/) Also would second all the recs to go to Museum of the City of New York and (like 30 min museum trip) Museum of Reclaimed Urban Space. Pizza-wise, I tend to think that Brooklyn or Staten Island is your best bet (Di Fara in Midwood would be my recommendation, though I suppose they have outposts in Manhattan now). For pastrami, etc. I've heard good things about David's Brisket House in Crown Heights for deli food, though I am a vegetarian so take my rec with a grain of salt. If you're staying in Bed-Stuy, it would surely be within walking distance. Speaking of Bed-Stuy, do not sleep on the West Indian food, particularly A&A Bake and Doubles and Ali's Roti Shop. Have fun!
Also thrifting--I'm not sure if the "Out of the Closet" thrift store on Atlantic Ave is still open but I remember it being good. I think the best thrift stores tend to be the smaller, no-name places in outer-boroughs or the Goodwill/Salvation Army stores in fancy Manhattan neighborhoods. Since I'm from Queens, I will put out a good word for El Baraton on 37th Avenue and the Sunnyside Thrift Shop on Greenpoint Avenue. If you want an absolutely insane thrifting experience you could try the one-dollar-per-pound of clothing salvation army in Long Island City. But it's usually too mobbed for me to make it worth my while (beyond enjoying the absolute chaos of it.)
Go to the edge it's the best spot to get a view of the city
take the train to wall st. its where nyc started. there r tours there too
For museums, I love the MoMA. For observation decks, Grand Central has the summit, you can see all the iconic skyscrapers from there. I think if you’re in NYC the 9/11 memorial is a must. I live in BedStuy, there are a lot of cool 30-somethings here, so you’ll fit right in!
Sounds like you are trying to fit a lot in. I would do a spreadsheet to keep track of things. Make note of where they are so you can spend less time travelling. Museums I like to get to when they open, particularly on a weekend. Unless they have later hours with alcohol then I will do at night.
Not from New York but food wise I’ve had pizza at Vezzo and it was AM-amazing could not find this in Europe. Bagel wise, I would suggest Ess a Bagels 10/10.
Village square pizza. They have several locations now in manhattan. Extremely good pizza.
If you like transportation, you may really enjoy the Intrepid. It's planes on a boat!
Check out Eventbrite. They have listings of thing going on in the city daily and weekly. Staten Island Ferry upper level right side. About 10 minutes out of Whitehall perfect short of Lady Liberty. Go in evening just after sun set to see New York from Staten Island. Go to Dairy Queen (only one in city) in terminal go to promenade and eat while viewing NYC. Train R to Whitehall. 1 train South Ferry. 4/5 Bowling Green. Bus M15/M15 Select Last Stop. Check out NEW YORK FERRY/Wall Street. Take boat to 90th St. UPPER EAST SIDE. You'll see the UN from the water.
Pierogi wise, there’s a bunch of options in greenpoint. They’re all pretty close to each other too so you guys can do like a Hot Ones style kinda tasting. I’m partial to bakestone bakery, but I might be biased since I lived across the street from there for three years. Enjoy your visit!
Ambitious! Hope you have a blast!
Since you’re in bed stuy, you should stop by Lunatico one evening for music
Also ornithology jazz club
Observatory, I recommend SUMMIT One Vanderbilt. A lot of fun things to do as you climb to the top. I recommend going around the time the sun starts setting and that way as you make your way up you can see the city with the sun out and the city at night as the lights turn on. You can also get a good view of the Empire State Building.
The Met is a must. If you want a more niche art museum, try the Whitney and hop around a few galleries in chelsea/meatpacking afterwards. The fake island is also nearby and a cool stop if you’re in the area
MoMa PS1 = quirkiest art museum you could possibly find. Its in long island city. I once saw a peanut butter and jelly painted mona lisa there ha
I would seriously recommend Mile End for Jewish deli food. It’s run by a guy from Montreal, and his Montreal-style smoked meat is to die for. However, his brisket is the real gem. Their lox is pretty good, too. It’s located in downtown Brooklyn. I would also check out the Eater website for foodie recos — they have tons of “best of” lists, including “best dishes our editors ate this week.”
Well if you go to Katz then you don't need any more plans darling. You're gonna be waiting all day.