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

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

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

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

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

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

Bookstore meets gallery space. Perfect for the coffee table book horders among us (read: everybody).

spoak team favorite
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