Suggestions For a Tourist In New York City

[mikeler]

I'll be staying at 49th street and Lexington Avenue in 2 weeks. My wife and I have a very active 2 year old boy, so being stuck in a cab for long periods of time is not ideal. I know we are in a pretty good area but what are the best places to visit within walking distance around our hotel? We will be attending a wedding in Central Park on Saturday afternoon. We are trying to plan our day on Friday and Saturday morning so any tips would be appreciated.

 

[jaggy]

Dont go up the statue of liberty, its a long wait and is very cramped inside for what really is a disappointing experience anyway.

 

[mikeler]

Dont go up the statue of liberty, its a long wait and is very cramped inside for what really is a disappointing experience anyway.

Yeah, I've seen it from the air and boat. I don't care to go all the way out there to see it. We'll also be skipping the Empire State Building.

 

[jhick]

Be sure to hit up some beer spots. Rattle 'N' Hum is less than 2 miles away. Other suggestions are Blind Tiger Ale House (also close) and Spuyten Duyvil.

 

[krz]

Midtown/upperwest/uppereast are kinda boring. You have the met and the museum and columbus ave is fairly nice, I guess.

The most beautiful architecture is in the Financial District.

Best places to walk around enjoy the culture and eat IMO would the east village walk down 1st/2nd/3rd ave starting from 14th st and west village also is really nice.

SoHo for good shopping and the architecture there is nice too.

If you like going out. Meatpacking if you like the high flying LA feel. I prefer lower east side myself though.

If I had only one suggestion it would to not stay in midtown and explore other areas.

 

[krz]

Be sure to hit up some beer spots. Rattle 'N' Hum is less than 2 miles away. Other suggestions are Blind Tiger Ale House (also close) and Spuyten Duyvil.

Blind Tiger is amazing. But, thats not close at all it's all the way in West Village.

There's a bunch of great beer spots around Rattle 'N' Hum though my personal favorite being Ginger Man.

 

[mikeler]

Midtown/upperwest/uppereast are kinda boring. You have the met and the museum and columbus ave is fairly nice, I guess.

The most beautiful architecture is in the Financial District.

Best places to walk around enjoy the culture and eat IMO would the east village walk down 1st/2nd/3rd ave starting from 14th st and west village also is really nice.

SoHo for good shopping and the architecture there is nice too.

If you like going out. Meatpacking if you like the high flying LA feel. I prefer lower east side myself though.

If I had only one suggestion it would to not stay in midtown and explore other areas.

Most of the wedding party is staying in the financial district and SoHo so I'll be visiting those spots on Saturday evening.

 

[ollinger]

There's virtually nothing of interest, especially to a two year old (or is everything of interest to a two year old??), within easy walking distance of where you're staying, other than the Empire State Building. The kid can cope with a short cab ride (the way NYC cabbies drive, these rides are seldom very long.)

 

[mikeler]

There's virtually nothing of interest, especially to a two year old (or is everything of interest to a two year old??), within easy walking distance of where you're staying, other than the Empire State Building. The kid can cope with a short cab ride (the way NYC cabbies drive, these rides are seldom very long.)

I was thinking more of what my wife and I will be interested in. My kid would be most interested in running around Central Park all day.

 

[DCaicedo]

Blind Tiger is amazing. But, thats not close at all it's all the way in West Village.

There's a bunch of great beer spots around Rattle 'N' Hum though my personal favorite being Ginger Man.

I second the Ginger Man recommendation. Also, Mikeler, since we've discussed IPAs and such, I'll recommend going to the Brooklyn Brewery in Williamsburg. The neighborhood's good for family-strolling- so if your family is into walking around a bit, you can get yourself a cold, fresh beverage (India East Pale Ale)

I think Heartland Brewery also has a decent selection- and perhaps even better for families.

Other than that, a tourist spot would be the UN. I'm sure they offer tours and stuff. And oh yeah, take the Roosevelt Island tram- it's cheap, not a long ride (kinda like a ski lift)- and if you bring your sticks, we'll play at the Roosevelt Island Racquet Club! j/k

 

[rommil]

I was thinking more of what my wife and I will be interested in. My kid would be most interested in running around Central Park all day.

What are your interests? Shopping? Museums?

 

[ollinger]

Perfect.....leave the kid in the park and head for the brewery.

 

[FloridaAG]

You are not staying in a primo area for stuff to do - my office when I lived there was very close and I have generally stayed on 50th and Lex when there for business. You are not too far from the Public Library and Bryant Park - Although sort of silly, I have always found Grand Central an excellent destination for out-of-towners - the ceiling is amazing and now has a market and all kinds of eating options.

If you want to visit a NY deli, 2nd Avenue Deli's new location is not too far from you either.

For your wife (sorry) - you are also close to Bloomingdales and not too far from Bergdorf's and all the other insane shops. There is also a large H&M there.

Also, the big FAO Schwartz toy store (famous from the movie Big and others) is in what was the GM building on 58th and 5th.

 

[dman72]

Use the Subway, it's safe and cheap. Cabs really aren't that bad considering 3 people also.

The East and West Villages are the best places to stroll, eat, and shop. East Village between AVE A and 3rd, West/Grenwich Village/Chelsea just about anywhere North of Houston ST.

For big name shopping West Broadway has basically everything. You really want to be Downtown.

 

[sureshs]

I have been to NY several times, but never went into the Metropolitan Museum of Art.

 

[10ACE]

Museum of Natural History(loved it as a kid)- 79 and Central Park west, you can then walk over to Lincoln Center.

Metropolitan Museum like some said.

**** 51 btwn 2-1st

Empire State Building

Grand Central Station- just Walk Through.

Shake Shake E 23rd and Madison- Madison square park across from Credit Suisse

I mean mention a category- Food, museums, nightlife, what?

 

[10ACE]

AVE A and 3rd,

Croxley's Ales=30 wings for $2- then hit up 7B

 

[mikeler]

Thanks for the suggestions everybody. I'm starting to see the big picture. My wife booked the hotel room and like most women, she loves to shop. I think I've been had.

Actually, we would like to see Grand Central Station, Times Square and the UN so I think our location is OK for that. I've only ridden in a cab from the airport to the cruise terminal, so I have no idea about Manhattan and what it has to offer.

 

[FloridaAG]

Based on your question, I was only posting about things near your hotel - the City offers endless options of things to do so it will all depend on what you are interested in doing in your limited time and with your wife and child. You can e-mail me at my screen name at gmail if you have specific questions or want more detailed information.

Are you staying at the W or Marriot? Those are what comes to mind at 49th and Lex -

A few words of advice, Central Park South at all times reeks of horse manure - there is no getting around it.

Subway v. Cab - while we generally travel by Subway - it depends where and when, and with a toddler in tow if you have a stroller, going down into the subway can be a pain.

 

[rommil]

Thanks for the suggestions everybody. I'm starting to see the big picture. My wife booked the hotel room and like most women, she loves to shop. I think I've been had.

Actually, we would like to see Grand Central Station, Times Square and the UN so I think our location is OK for that. I've only ridden in a cab from the airport to the cruise terminal, so I have no idea about Manhattan and what it has to offer.

When you are in GC Station, on the ground floor there is a "food court", try the Indian food there, Juniors cheesecake etc. Also a couple of blocks away is the Zara flagship store for shopping, hers and yours, even your kid.

 

[10ACE]

When you are in GC Station, on the ground floor there is a "food court", try the Indian food there, Juniors cheesecake etc. Also a couple of blocks away is the Zara flagship store for shopping, hers and yours, even your kid.

Don't forget the Magnolia Cupcakes!! sooo good- beats having to go down to West Village

 

[mikeler]

Based on your question, I was only posting about things near your hotel - the City offers endless options of things to do so it will all depend on what you are interested in doing in your limited time and with your wife and child. You can e-mail me at my screen name at gmail if you have specific questions or want more detailed information.

Are you staying at the W or Marriot? Those are what comes to mind at 49th and Lex -

A few words of advice, Central Park South at all times reeks of horse manure - there is no getting around it.

Subway v. Cab - while we generally travel by Subway - it depends where and when, and with a toddler in tow if you have a stroller, going down into the subway can be a pain.

You really do know the area! We will be at the Marriot. I was looking for stuff around the hotel and have gotten some good suggestions so far. A lot of my family is staying down at the Hampton Inn in lower Manhattan. It seemed like that was pretty far away from all the action so we decided on this location.

 

[FloridaAG]

When I lived in NY, my office was at 40th and Park. I have been there over the last 4 years frequently for work and generally stayed at the Benjamin on 50th and Lex - so I have been in the area often.

 

[DCaicedo]

When you are in GC Station, on the ground floor there is a "food court", try the Indian food there, Juniors cheesecake etc. Also a couple of blocks away is the Zara flagship store for shopping, hers and yours, even your kid.

Not only that- but GC terminal has both the novelty 'items': the soon-to-be unveiled Vanderbilt court(s), and the Grand Central Racquet store.

 

[sureshs]

When you are in GC Station, on the ground floor there is a "food court", try the Indian food there

I am sure there are 100s of places in NYC better for that purpose

 

[Power Player]

When I go to Manhatten and the weather is nice, I walk..everywhere..all day long. It is so fun and relaxing. I'd go to the village for shopping. Put the kid on your back and just stroll around.

 

[rommil]

I am sure there are 100s of places in NYC better for that purpose

.


Pay attention to what was written suresh. Dont let your retardation get in the way.

 

[rommil]

Don't forget the Magnolia Cupcakes!! sooo good- beats having to go down to West Village

Im going to the city from Connecticut tomorrow, maybe I will check that out. Have to find Murray's Cheese as well, its somewhere in the area.

 

[Bartelby]

The view from the subway is predictable.

 

[JoelDali]

What, no talk tennis NTRP Exo?

Challenge Jolly or something.

Screw the tourist crap we want a fuchen battle on tape.

 

[Bartelby]

Watch out for the Marriott - all the sheets are made from polyester.

 

[Sentinel]

I'll be staying at 49th street and Lexington Avenue in 2 weeks. My wife and I have a very active 2 year old boy, so being stuck in a cab for long periods of time is not ideal. I know we are in a pretty good area but what are the best places to visit within walking distance around our hotel? We will be attending a wedding in Central Park on Saturday afternoon. We are trying to plan our day on Friday and Saturday morning so any tips would be appreciated.

For Pete's sake, you stopped me right there

 

[DCaicedo]

Watch out for the Marriott - all the sheets are made from polyester.

Which one?
My job has an event at the Marquis every December.

 

[mikeler]

What, no talk tennis NTRP Exo?

Challenge Jolly or something.

Screw the tourist crap we want a fuchen battle on tape.

I'd love to but alas my time is too short.

 

[mikeler]

For Pete's sake, you stopped me right there

Perhaps I should have asked for more specific tips.

 

[10ACE]

Im going to the city from Connecticut tomorrow, maybe I will check that out. Have to find Murray's Cheese as well, its somewhere in the area.

Murray's Cheese off 42 Lex in the Grand central Market- yum!

 

[rommil]

Murray's Cheese off 42 Lex in the Grand central Market- yum!

Yeah maybe Andy and Judy will be there today working the counter.

 

[Sentinel]

You could meet Veronique, Rickson and nbc - I believe they live in NYC. Jolly lives in LI.

 

[rommil]

You could meet Veronique.

I think they want to have fun Senti.

 

[Eph]

I'll be staying at 49th street and Lexington Avenue in 2 weeks. My wife and I have a very active 2 year old boy, so being stuck in a cab for long periods of time is not ideal. I know we are in a pretty good area but what are the best places to visit within walking distance around our hotel? We will be attending a wedding in Central Park on Saturday afternoon. We are trying to plan our day on Friday and Saturday morning so any tips would be appreciated.

per se for dinner, Jean-Georges for lunch
San Pietro for early dinner

Ess-a Bagels for bagels (and various cream cheeses)

Walk up past 73rd and Central Park West and then walk through the park (quiet).

Have some shirts made at CEGO around 5th Ave & 26th St.

 

[dennis10is]

When you are in GC Station, on the ground floor there is a "food court", try the Indian food there, Juniors cheesecake etc. Also a couple of blocks away is the Zara flagship store for shopping, hers and yours, even your kid.

If you go to the Food court in Grand Central, look for Golden Krust. Best Jamaican Jerk Chicken around.

 

[mikeler]

We plan on doing a lot of walking and realize that cabs are part of the deal. I'll post back after my trip and of course to any more suggestions. Thank you everyone for all the suggestions.

 

[mikeler]

Watch out for the Marriott - all the sheets are made from polyester.

How did I miss this earlier? Are the sheets at low tension?

 

[Mike Bulgakov]

When I am a tourist in New York, I find New Yorkers to be very friendly, and full of unsolicited suggestions of what I should do. The most common suggestion is that I should go f*ck myself.

 

[CCNM]

As the Empire State Building happens to be one of my favorite things in NYC, I'm a little hurt that you won't be visiting it, but I do recommend the Circle Line ferry ride around Manhattan

 

[rommil]

Don't forget the Magnolia Cupcakes!! sooo good- beats having to go down to West Village

I always walk past by stall to the Indian food. You weren't kidding, wow, they were awesome. Thanks

 

[rommil]

If you go to the Food court in Grand Central, look for Golden Krust. Best Jamaican Jerk Chicken around.

Next time around when I get more time. Was rushing a bit to catch the Metro North.

 

[mhj202]

per se for dinner, Jean-Georges for lunch
San Pietro for early dinner

Ess-a Bagels for bagels (and various cream cheeses)

Walk up past 73rd and Central Park West and then walk through the park (quiet).

Have some shirts made at CEGO around 5th Ave & 26th St.

Per Se, really? Does a 3-4 hour meal with a 2 year old sound reasonable?

FYI- CEGO has been bouncing around locations after their lease expired at 26th and 5th a few months ago; think they're now at 28th and 5th but before that they were borrowing some space from Mr. Ned.

 

[10ACE]

I always walk past by stall to the Indian food. You weren't kidding, wow, they were awesome. Thanks

I had a chocolate cupcake with a hint of coffee or espresso in the mix with the mound of frosting they put on it, so moist man it was worth it!!!

 

[krz]

Per Se, really? Does a 3-4 hour meal with a 2 year old sound reasonable?

FYI- CEGO has been bouncing around locations after their lease expired at 26th and 5th a few months ago; think they're now at 28th and 5th but before that they were borrowing some space from Mr. Ned.

I'm sure it was more of a joke. It's also 500 bucks per person and takes reservations 2 months in advance.

I would go with the classics in NYC for visitors. Pizza(grimaldi's/lombardi's/Rays if you're drunk), Cheesecake(jr's, eileens, venerios), Pastrami on Rye (Katzs), Chicken and Rice (53rd&6th), Soup dumplings (Joe's Shanghai), Dim Sum(jin fong, but go early quality drops off late), Shake Shack(I actually prefer bareburger but it's not a classic). Don't forget Continental 5 shots of anything... kinda for 10 bucks! Best place to get your night started off right.

I only have 1 warning! For some reason the hot new restaurant is The Spotted Pig in the village. I did not have a good experience. No reservation policy = 2 hour wait even though we came at midnight. The worst most cramped seating in the city. Food is over priced because Batali put his name on it. I had the pork belly and the roast pork from Chinatown is much better. How this place has a MICHELIN star I'll never know. For sure I've had bad experiences else where but not at a place with this kind of reputation.