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NYC: A Design Lover's Guide to the City That Never Sleeps

New York City, the city that never sleeps. It's true! You can always find something to do when you're in the city. As a Hudson Valley-based company, we love New York City because many of us lived there before moving upstate. The city holds a special place in our hearts. The liveliness of the streets, incredible food and shopping scene, impromptu concerts and late night shows, and yes, even the rush hour traffic seems to have a feel-good (in small doses) nostalgic feeling. While it would be quite the feat to cover every cool place located the city, this guide includes our top choices — some old and some new — that we recommend to anyone visiting. We hope you bookmark this for your next trip or pass it along to someone who needs it.

Last updated
August 15, 2023
Wildair
Upland
They Whitney Museum of American Art
The Top of The Standard
The Museum of Modern Art
The Metropolitan Museum of Art
The High Line
The Beekman
Temperance Wine Bar
Susan Alexandra
Shanghai Mermaid
Reception Bar
Primo's
Pop Up Grocer
Pietro NoLita
Panna II Garden Indian Restaurant
Nat's on Bank
MoMA Design Store
Mast Books
MADE
Love House NY
General Art Company
Gem Wine
Freehand Hotel
Fotografiska New York
Ford Foundation Building
Fig. 19
Dimes NYC
Demolition Depot & Irreplaceable Artifacts
Cucina Alba
Crosby Street Hotel
Coming Soon New York
Buddakan
Bluestone Lane Upper East Side Café
Blue Tree
Big Night
Bemelmans Bar
Ace Hotel New York
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Stay

Located on a quaint, cobblestone street, this hotel feels like living in bohemian luxury. You'll swoon over the perfectly paired prints and patterns. Pro-tip: Don't miss out on the rooftop garden.

Not for pets
spoak team favorite

Not only does MADE have the coolest, plant-filled rooftop, but their rooms feel just as special. Even the lobby is a favorite of ours for working and sipping coffee.

Pet-friendly
spoak team favorite

What used to be the old George Washington Hotel, this spot has a lot of history with old musicians and artists alike. It still holds true to its hip feel and ambiance.

Pet-friendly
spoak team favorite

Eat & Drink

Simple design lets the food shine. Sophisticated small plates and a superb natural wine list. Note: all the tables inside are bar height (not the best for picky friends or family).

spoak team favorite

Famous bar inside the Carlyle Hotel adorned with Madeline author & illustrator Ludwig Bemelmans’ murals. Grab a drink (in two straight lines) in rain or shine.

spoak team favorite

Opulent asian fusion restaurant with an over-the-top tasting menu. Get the edamame dumplings (you'll thank us later).

spoak team favorite

The UES outpost of the Aussie brekkie chain. Located in an old church cathedral, it’s the perfect pit stop along Museum Mile.

Kid-friendly
spoak team favorite

All around delicious American food. This sounds weird, but... you have to check out their bathroom. It has the coolest, most colorful mural by JULU. Take the selfie. We know you want to.

spoak team favorite

A small cafe tucked between Chinatown and the LES, Dimes is great for a quick lunch spot or coffee dates with friends.

spoak team favorite

Do & See

NYC outpost of the famous Swedish photography museum. Pro-tip: Make an evening out your visit with a dinner at Verōnika restaurant or a drink at the Chapel Bar.

Half-day
Kid-friendly
Not for pets
spoak team favorite

Nine stories of modern and contemporary art in a (relatively) new Renzo Piano designed building. Spend hours exploring the multiple galleries and outdoor terraces overlooking the Hudson River. Pro-tip: book timed entry tickets in advance to skip the line.

Half-day
Kid-friendly
Not for pets
spoak team favorite

Step back in time with these decadent themed soirées at secret locations around NYC. Costumes required. Join the mailing list to find out about the next one.

Hour or two
Not for Kids
Not for pets
spoak team favorite

Shop

This architectural salvage is a Harlem institution. Get lost in two stories full of lighting, plumbing fixtures, doors, windows, mirrors, hardware and smaller found objects from former NYC landmark buildings.

spoak team favorite

Our go-to spot for custom framing in NYC. They do the framing for some big name artists and galleries, but the price can't be beat for the quality. You’re welcome.

spoak team favorite

Grocery shopping, but make it fun. Like really fun. This shop will make any organized, color-fanatic go wild.

spoak team favorite

A blast of color and fun, this store feels like you’re walking through a fairytale dream. Make your own charmed necklaces or bracelets while you’re there for that extra nostalgia.

spoak team favorite
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