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

An excellent Italian restaurant, which you may have seen on Instagram due to its very loud, pink interiors. The food is just as good as the design of this place.

spoak team favorite

This minimalistic Korean soju bar is best known for their unique drinks, specifically mocktails. Add booze to them if that's what you're craving, or don't. You decide!

spoak team favorite

This new Italian spot in the West Village has drawn a lot of attention, particular with celebrities. So TLDR: Yes you might have a sighting during your meal here! The good is great, the vibes are great, and the interiors, well, also great.

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

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

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

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

You can't come to New York without visiting the Met. Take your art or design loving guests from out of town here.

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

The Top of the Standard is located at the Standard Hotel. We love coming here for the rooftop views of the city. It doesn't hurt that you can grab a bev while you'e here too.

Hour or two
Not for pets
spoak team favorite

Shop

Our favorite colorful, whacky, and beautiful home goods store. Hot tip: Spoak members get up to 15% off with their trade discount here.

spoak team favorite

A stunning showroom of modern furniture. A must-see for any design lover.

spoak team favorite

Dinner party and hosting essentials curated in the prettiest red shop. What's better than that?

spoak team favorite

We can't stress enough how useful this store is when it comes to gift giving. There's something here for any design and art lover. This is the Soho outpost (you can also shop the store at the museum in midtown).

spoak team favorite

Eclectic gift shop with an extensive collection of unique jewelry and decor items (plus kids stuff). Great for a birthday, host, or new parent gift.

Kid-friendly
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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