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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

The interiors in this hotel make you feel like New York royalty when you step In. That said, it is a splurge to stay here, but it's fun to pretend to be classy every once in a while.

Pet-friendly
spoak team favorite

Swanky hotel with an Americana lounge and bar area.

Pet-friendly
spoak team favorite

Eat & Drink

This bar has everything nailed down—from their modern decor and checkered accent walls, to their eclectic small plates and (you guessed it) epic wine list. Visit when it’s warm outside so you can enjoy their secret patio.

spoak team favorite

Speakeasy craft cocktail lounge found by entering a secret door at the back of an art gallery. Take your out-of-town friends here for a fun treat.

spoak team favorite

If you love the Art Deco design era, retro furniture, and delicious cocktails, Primo's will be your new BFF.

spoak team favorite

California-cool restaurant near Madison Square Park. We love this spot for the ambiance and big and bold design. Plus, the menu has something for everyone—big salads, fire-roasted pizzas, pastas, and every type of meat.

spoak team favorite

Gem Wine focuses on low-intervention wine makers and serve a menu of tasty small dishes. Come here for your next girl's night with your besties.

spoak team favorite

Have yourself an Indian feast under a bazillion (yes, we counted) strands of technicolor twinkle lights. Pro-tip: Bring your favorite bottle of natty wine since it's BYOB.

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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