Broadway, Procuring, Gossip Lady & Tasty Treats

Sponsored by Allianz Journey

New York Metropolis gives an unbelievable mix of iconic landmarks, cultural experiences, and stylish spots that make it excellent for a household journey with teenagers.

It’s the most requested vacation spot by my two teenagers, so I lately obliged for a one-on-one New York lengthy weekend journey with my eldest teen Kalyra (17)

She’s finished all the key points of interest on earlier journeys, so this time was all about Broadway exhibits, buying, exploring Gossip Lady places, and indulging in tasty treats she found on Tik Tok! It was a implausible strategy to expertise New York by her passions!

In sponsorship with Allianz Journey (who hold our journey investments protected yearlong on an annual coverage) I’ve created this 3-day itinerary for teenagers in NYC to assist make your loved ones journey simpler to plan!

Lace up your boots and prepare to clock up some miles. We walked in all places (30,000 steps a day) – requested by Kalyra! It’s a good way to see extra and stroll off these indulgent energy. You will have the subway if strolling is an excessive amount of for you!

Right here’s your detailed information to an unforgettable lengthy weekend in NYC, crafted particularly for households with teenagers.

Day 1: Midtown Manhattan Highlights

It’s possible you’ll wish to change Bryant Park and Rockefeller Focus on, as following our New York itinerary will contain a bit of backtracking. However we love beginning the day with a bagel breakfast at Bryant Park!

Cease 1: Breakfast: Zucker’s Bagels and Smoked Fish at Bryant Park

From our lodging in Instances Sq., it was a brief stroll to Bryant Park, one in every of my favourite locations in New York, particularly throughout a NYC Christmas with their ice-skating rink. 

This bustling inexperienced house is at all times lively, providing a possibility to loosen up, people-watch, or try seasonal occasions.

Bagels had been excessive on my teen’s checklist whereas in New York. And since all of the New Yorkers in Raleigh consistently complain about how Raleigh bagels pale in significance to NYC, I needed to strive them too. Now I perceive!

This basic New York breakfast from Zucker’s Bagels and Smoked Fish at Bryant Park is the proper begin to the day. Recognized for its genuine hand-rolled bagels and scrumptious smoked fish, this spot gives a quintessential NYC expertise. Older children will love selecting from a wide range of bagel flavors and toppings whereas having fun with the morning buzz of the park.

Alternatively, there are many pastry & bakery kiosks within the park. Consuming bagels in New York is an iconic NYC meals expertise.

Cease 2: Discover the New York Public Library

Earlier than heading to Bryant Park, take a second to discover the magnificent New York Public Library on Fifth Avenue. 

The library just isn’t solely an architectural marvel but in addition gives free displays that change recurrently, showcasing every part from uncommon books to historic paperwork. I loved their exhibit on Lord Bryon, after we discovered a lot about him visiting the Frankenstein Museum in Bathtub England!

Teenagers who love literature or historical past will recognize the distinctive shows, and it’s a peaceable retreat from the busy metropolis streets. I used to be fairly shocked at how lovely the New York Library is. I’m glad we determined to “pop in”

Cease 3: Espresso Break at Bluestone Lane Close to Bryant Park

Earlier than shifting on Rockefeller Middle, seize a espresso and a Lamington (an Aussie favourite cake) from Bluestone Lane, simply steps away.

 It’s my favourite espresso store in New York and a should for each go to! (Test beneath for his or her greatest location we found!) Yow will discover extra of our favourite Australian owned espresso outlets in New York.

Cease 4: New York from Above at High of the Rock

For arguably the greatest view of New York Metropolis, head to the High of the Rock – that’s the high of the Rockefeller Middle. Right here, you’ll get beautiful panoramic views of town and be taught the fascinating historical past about this well-known New York heart on the way in which up.

Teenagers will love recognizing well-known landmarks just like the Empire State Constructing and Central Park from 70 flooring up. That is essentially the most unobstructed view you’ll get of your complete Manhattan from the Statue of Liberty to manner up north. I really like the views of Central Park from right here, particularly when it’s summer time lush!

They’ve a brand new attraction referred to as the Beam, the place you possibly can recreate the well-known photograph of the Rockefeller building employees again within the 30s. We thought it appeared lamer than thrilling so determined to save lots of the cash!

This was not on Kalyra’s checklist of issues to do in New York with older children, however she actually beloved it! This was the one factor mama selected!

We used our Citypass for this attraction and had no ready occasions. That’s atypical for New York so it’s greatest to e-book this common attraction prematurely. 

Cease 5: Gossip Lady Glam at The Lotte New York Palace

 For followers of the enduring sequence Gossip Lady, a fast cease at The Lotte New York Palace Lodge is a should. I’m certain mums will love this as a lot as youngsters!

This turned out to be one of the surprising highlights of our NYC journey, all because of Maurice, the pleasant safety guard. Recognizing us as *Gossip Lady* followers as we wandered by the foyer, he launched himself and mentioned, “Observe me.”

Although he’d by no means watched the present, he was there throughout filming and knew each location and scene by coronary heart. He led us by the lodge, mentioning the enduring spots and recounting what occurred in every scene. To high it off, he even took photographs of Kalyra at each location, making it a memorable expertise!

Kalyra is a giant fan of the present, so it was a thrill for her (and me). Maurice simply made it an epic expertise – he was an instance of the kindness you could find in New Yorkers.

Other than Gossip Lady, the lodge is glamorous. A go to to the Lotte gives a splash of popular culture pleasure to your NYC trip with teenagers. In case your funds permits, chances are you’ll even wish to keep on this glamorous lodge.

You possibly can stroll down Madison Avenue – one other buying avenue teenagers might love – in your strategy to the following cease.

Cease 6: Discover Grand Central Terminal

A ten-minute stroll from the Lotte Palace, Grand Central Terminal is greater than only a transit hub; it’s a surprising architectural landmark.

Teenagers might be amazed by the grandiose primary concourse and the constellation ceiling. As quickly as I stroll in right here, I really feel like I’m transported again to London, and it fills me with pleasure.

Don’t overlook to take a look at the Whispering Gallery close to the Oyster Bar, a enjoyable spot for secret conversations! Exterior the bar on the decrease concourse are 4 arches joined by a curved ceiling that collectively create a whispering gallery.

If one individual stands at one nook and one other on the reverse finish and speaks at a traditional quantity, the opposite individual will have the ability to hear every part mentioned completely. We examined it, and it really works.

If , Take Walks have guided excursions of the Grand Central Terminal.

One other Aussie espresso spot close to Grand Central Terminal is Black Fox Espresso. Their lamingtons listed here are soften within the mouth and are higher than Bluestone Lane.

Cease 7: Lunch at Madison Sq. Park: The Authentic Shake Shack

Head to Madison Sq. Park for lunch on the unique Shake Shack. This iconic NYC eatery is ideal for teenagers who wish to love the basic shack burgers, fries (add the cheese) and yummy shakes in a vibrant outside setting. They’re my favourite quick meals burger chain!

Whilst you’re right here, discover this beautiful New York Park and take within the Flatiron Constructing, one in every of NYC’s most distinctive skyscrapers. 

Throughout the highway from the park is the Eataly – an Italian market full of yummy delicacies, for those who needed an alternative choice for meals.

Cease 8: Afternoon: Procuring on Broadway

After lunch, stroll again to Instances Sq. by way of Broadway, the place you possibly can get pleasure from a day of buying – Kalyra beloved popping into her favourite City Outfitters, which is far bigger than our one in Raleigh

I really like how Broadway is generally pedestrian pleasant and little, small squares with seats and flowers provide a possibility to relaxation alongside the way in which.

In the event you want a espresso break, Aussie owned Ten Thousand Espresso is on Broadway. It’s possible you’ll wish to strive their Einspanner, a German impressed Signature Cream Latte served with Espresso.

Cease 9: Chill out in Central Park 

Take a leisurely stroll by Central Park, the place you possibly can hire bikes or just wander the scenic paths. 

As Central Park is so big, we determined to discover the southern finish of it round sundown time and the next day discover the Higher East Facet space. We visited the Huge Rock with wonderful views of the NYC skyline.

We then walked up the well-known canopied Mall, a pedestrian walkway resulting in Bethesda Fountain (one other Gossip Lady location). When you have time chances are you’ll wish to row boats on the lake right here! I’m including it to my checklist of issues to do in New York for my subsequent go to!

Whether or not you bike (we’ve got on a earlier journey) or stroll, Teenagers will love this iconic place to unwind with lovely views all spherical. It’s one in every of my favourite locations in New York.

Teenagers will love the liberty of biking round this iconic park, and it’s a good way to unwind earlier than dinner.

Right here’s what you are able to do in Central Park in any season.

Cease 10: Dinner at Chai Thai Kitchen

On the way in which again down 8^th avenue to our lodge from Central Park we found Chai Thai Kitchen, a great place in Hell’s Kitchen. It’s not removed from Instances Sq. so for those who’re in that area, simple to get to, and rather more reasonably priced than the touristy areas.

The flavorful Thai dishes, like Pad Thai and Panang Curry, will fulfill each adventurous and choosy eaters alike. I used to be thrilled to lastly be consuming Thai meals that tastes just like the streets of Bangkok. This cozy, laid-back restaurant is ideal for households and gives a break from the hustle and bustle of Instances Sq..

Cease 11: Instances Sq. by Night time 

Cap off your first day with a go to to Instances Sq. at night time. The glowing neon lights, huge digital billboards, and energetic ambiance will dazzle teenagers.

Allow them to snap some photographs, seize a snack from a avenue vendor, or as my daughter most well-liked the M & M retailer, and soak within the power of one of many world’s most iconic locations.

There may be at all times one thing occurring in Instances Sq. from pop up concert events, artwork installations, buskers, and particular occasions. As we stayed proper off Instances Sq., we handed by right here daily and night time! It was completely different each time!

Day 2: Higher East Facet and Gossip Lady Spots

Cease 1: Breakfast at Bluestone Lane within the Church

Begin your day with a singular breakfast expertise at Bluestone Lane, positioned inside a historic church on the Higher East Facet.

The Aussie-inspired menu is ideal for teenagers who love avocado toast and high quality espresso. The gorgeous setting, paired with the laid-back vibe, makes it a super first cease.

I’ve been to a number of Bluestone Lane places in New York, and that is by far my favourite for its distinctive location, glorious service, and excellent meals.

Cease 2: Central Park Exploration

After breakfast, head into Central Park throughout from Bluestone Lane by the Higher East Facet entrance. We walked out and in of the tree-lined paths of this part as we visited the completely different Gossip Women filming places.

I beloved the view from Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir, which I had by no means seen earlier than. (It’s proper reverse Bluestone Lane.) On this space can also be the Alice in Wonderland Statue (my first time seeing it) and Conservatory Water the place you possibly can launch and race miniature sailboats and yachts.

Cease 3: Go to the Guggenheim Museum or Met Museum

Simply steps from Central Park is the enduring Guggenheim Museum. Teenagers will recognize the fashionable artwork and the museum’s spiral structure, which is a murals in itself.

Though be warned, you may really feel a bit of dizzy as you stroll round and round by the displays. To be trustworthy, I discovered the Guggenheim Museum underwhelming and boring, however many others appear to like its distinctive assortment and progressive displays.

We used our NYC CityPASS to go to the Guggenheim Museum.

A substitute for the Guggenheim is the Met Museum, which we visited on a earlier NYC journey. We extremely suggest this artwork museum, it’s manner higher than the Guggenheim.

Metropolitan Museum of Artwork is the largest and most complete artwork museum in New York Metropolis. It’s dwelling to essential collections of Egyptian, Babylonian, Greek and Roman, European, pre-Columbian, New Guinean, Islamic, and American artwork. You’ll need to permit for at the very least an hour, in all probability extra, as there may be a lot to see inside. For this journey, we opted for a photograph on the steps for our Gossip Lady tour.

You can too use your CityPass for this NYC attraction.

Cease 4: Gossip Lady Tour of the Higher East Facet

Now it’s time for a mini Gossip Lady tour of the Higher East Facet, this was excessive on Kalyra’s checklist.

Stroll by places just like the Museum of the Metropolis of New York, which stood in as Constance Billard College for Women, The Met Steps, the place Blair and Serena had numerous dramatic scenes, Nate Archibald’s Home, and the Synod ff Bishops Russian Orthodox Church inside of St Jude’s. This can be a enjoyable and interactive strategy to discover the Higher East Facet for followers of the present.

In the event you don’t wish to chase these places down your self (we’ll have a put up quickly) and wish to hear extra private tales round it, then take into account this Gossip Lady tour of the NYC filming places.

Cease 5: Albertine Bookstore

Literary teenagers and Francophiles will love a cease at Albertine Bookstore, positioned throughout the French Embassy on Fifth Avenue.

It’s a sublime and superbly designed celestial house full of principally French, however some English literature. Regardless that I couldn’t learn lots of the books I used to be completely happy to go to and wander the 2 flooring of the bookstore.

It’s one of many prettiest bookstores I’ve ever been to and value including to your lengthy weekend in New York Metropolis.

Cease 6: Lunch at Mole Mexican Bar & Grill

We found the enjoyment of Mole Mexican Bar & Grill just by strolling previous its 2nd Ave location with hungry tummies. I beloved the look of it and their number of Mexican meals at respectable costs.

Their tacos, burritos, and guacamole are recent and flavorful, making it a success for teenagers. We beloved our recent guacamole, which was so filling, I opted for an appetizer of Sopa de Tortilla which was so flavorful. And Kalyra had an enchilada that was so scrumptious I needed to end off hers!!

Cease 7: Espresso at Hutch & Waldo 

After lunch, take a fast espresso break at Hutch & Waldo, an Australian-style cafe recognized for its high quality brews and comfortable vibe, and scrumptious, pure and nutritious fast-food choices. Teenagers can get pleasure from a smoothie or a stylish matcha latte.

Their Higher East Facet location is in a resorted native mechanic storage from the Nineteen Fifties, however disappointingly, I didn’t actually get that distinctive vibe from it. Nonetheless, this was the perfect espresso I had in New York!

We walked from right here again by Central Park to Fifth Ave, and sure, my teen requested that as a substitute of getting the subway. (You will have choices).

Cease 8: Afternoon: Fifth Avenue Procuring and Strolling

No journey to NYC is full with out experiencing the legendary Fifth Avenue, dwelling to luxurious shops and iconic outlets and flagship shops like Saks Fifth Avenue, Coach, FAO Schwarz and the Apple Retailer. 

Teenagers will love searching shops equivalent to Nike and the Lego retailer, whereas vogue lovers can try high-end manufacturers.

Even for those who’re simply window buying, strolling down this bustling avenue gives an genuine style of NYC’s glamorous facet, with views of landmarks like St. Patrick’s Cathedral and the towering skyscrapers. 

Cease 9: Dinner at Backstage Tavern on Restaurant Row

Because the primary goal of our New York journey was Hadestown on Broadway, I wish to make sure that we did the complete iconic expertise.

Nested amongst Broadway Theaters in Instances Sq., New York Metropolis, Restaurant Row is dwelling to dozens of genuine neighborhood eating places catering to people searching for high-quality meals earlier than and after theater exhibits.

Eating places are a bit of dear, however we found Backstage Tavern, which had extra reasonably priced scrumptious meals that didn’t sacrifice on high quality.

 You possibly can sit exterior and watch Restaurant Row bustle. The menu gives consolation meals like burgers, wings, and salads, excellent for refueling earlier than an evening on the theater. Kalyra’s Korean fried rooster burger with gochujang honey glaze was scrumptious (many Yelpers rave about it) and I beloved my grilled salmon bowl with sesame ginger glaze, quinoa and orange supremes. 

Cease 10: Broadway: Hadestown

Finish the day with a Broadway present— take your choose from many on and off Broadway exhibits. We’ve beforehand seen Depraved, the Lion King, and the Cursed Little one.

For this teen journey to NYC for the lengthy weekend, Kalyra selected Hadestown, an acclaimed musical with an unforgettable rating which follows the Legendary Quest of Orpheus to beat Hades.

The Walter Kerr Theater can also be beautiful. We each beloved it, and I really like how I can expertise memorable Broadway moments like this with my daughter. And I by no means would have considered seeing this present earlier than. She introduces me to so many great new issues.

We had been company of Broadway Assortment, which lists the latest and hottest exhibits in NYC consists of hit Broadway and Off-Broadway productions, the Metropolitan Opera and New York Metropolis Ballet, and extra.

Day 3: Union Sq., SoHo, and West Village Vibes

Cease 1:  Breakfast at Tompkins Sq. Bagels

Begin your ultimate day with basic New York bagels from Tompkins Sq. Bagels. I’m undecided if these are the perfect bagels in New York, however in response to my teen, Timothy Chamelet likes them, and for a teen, that’s EVERYTHING.

I discovered them fairly darn scrumptious and was overwhelmed, but excited by the unbelievable quantity of bagel choices from schmears to fillings. I went for an avocado, bacon, and roasted sun-dried tomato on gluten free and Kalyra a strawberry cream cheese bagel. Yum Yum Yum!

You possibly can both dine in or take your bagels to Union Sq. to get pleasure from a picnic-style breakfast. In the event you’re visiting on a Saturday, the Union Sq. Greenmarket might be in full swing, providing recent produce, pastries, and artisanal items.

Throughout the highway is the unique and largest Barnes & Noble’s retailer that e-book loving teenagers might get pleasure from. Mine did!

If in want of a great espresso, we love Ariston Flowers & Cafe positioned close to Union Sq.. It’s a restaurant hidden behind a fascinating flower store. We visited on our earlier NYC journey with our teenagers and beloved it sufficient to incorporate it on our greatest espresso outlets in NYC checklist.

Cease 2: Washington Sq. Park & NYU Campus tour

From Union Sq. it’s a simple stroll to Washington Sq. Park, one other vibrant spot with its iconic arch and an excellent place to people-watch. Because it’s proper on NYU’s doorstep, you possibly can count on a youthful scholar vibe.

As we’ve got a senior who actually needs to go to NYU, nevertheless it’s manner out of our value level, we did a campus tour of NYU whereas right here. I’ll admit it made me wish to go there too!

Not less than it gave her one thing to match to, as we’re at the moment touring NC faculties the place that in-state public tuition is rather more engaging to mama’s purse.

Cease 3: Levain Bakery in NoHo

Tik Tok has been telling Kalyra that Levain Bakery has the perfect cookies in NYC, and since their NoHo location was close to NYC, we popped in for a style.

Now I’m not a cookie lover in any respect, however I made a decision to present these well-known gooey, outsized cookies a go, particularly since they’ve a gluten free model of their unique chocolate chip walnut. Oh my! That was a style sensation, and I ate the entire thing!

These candy treats are excellent for teenagers with a candy tooth and are Instagram-worthy too.

Cease 4: Procuring in SoHo

No journey to NYC with teenagers is full with out buying in SoHo. Stroll down Decrease Broadway, the place you’ll discover common shops like Nike, Steve Madden (we love their sneakers) and Zara. Kalyra loves buying on the flagship Brandy Melville right here.

For one thing extra distinctive, try Housing Works Bookstore. I beloved how this mission-based retailer full of books, secondhand gear, and a café helps these affected by HIV/AIDS. This was a suggestion from somebody in our Instagram group!

Our different favourite discover in Soho was Bibliotheque NYC, a classy bookstore, café and wine bar multi functional! That was one other of Kalyra’s finds on Tik Tok!

Cease 5: Molly’s Cupcakes or Magnolia Bakery

Now you possibly can stroll by Greenwich and the West Village to absorb the bohemian vibe of one in every of our favourite NYC neighborhoods.

Take a break with a candy deal with from both Molly’s Cupcakes or Magnolia Bakery. Teenagers will benefit from the vibrant colours and comfortable seating in Molly’s, whereas Magnolia is a must-visit for followers of their well-known banana pudding. It was excessive on Kalyra’s checklist of must-eat tasty treats in NYC.

I hardly ever go to New York with out getting a scrumptious gluten free cupcake from Molly’s Cupcakes. The Greenwich location of Magnolia Bakery is the unique!

Cease 6: Go to Cornelia Avenue

Taylor Swift followers will love a fast cease at Cornelia Avenue, the place the pop star as soon as lived and immortalized the situation in her tune “Cornelia Avenue.”

It’s a enjoyable detour for teenagers who’re Swifties. This was our second stroll previous! Final time was on our tasty meals tour of Greenwich Village.

Cease 7: Chelsea Market: Lunch & Procuring

Head over to Chelsea Market for a late lunch and a little bit of buying. The market’s huge array of meals choices, from tacos to lobster rolls, will fulfill each craving. Kalyra beloved her Taiwanese bowl of noodles from Very Contemporary Noodles. 

In a earlier go to, Craig and I beloved our Thai meal at Ayada. Los Tacos No. 1 should even be good as the road was very lengthy.

Afterward, discover the market’s distinctive outlets, excellent for locating souvenirs or distinctive items. Don’t miss Artists & Fleas, the nice co-op of thrift, classic, and reward shops behind the markets.

And out of doors of Chelsea Markets within the meat packing district, you’ll discover this unbelievable row of bamboo elephant sculptures. They’re fascinating to see, and you may even purchase one in order for you! There are a lot to select from because it stretches a number of blocks.

Cease 8: Stroll the Highline

From Chelsea Market, hop onto the Highline, an elevated park constructed on an previous railway line. This was my first stroll alongside the Highline throughout summer time, and it simply elevated it to new heights.

It was so lush and inexperienced; at occasions it was exhausting to think about you had been within the coronary heart of New York Metropolis. I really like how there are various artwork installations to get pleasure from alongside the way in which as effectively.

The scenic stroll additionally gives views of the Hudson River and NYC’s skyline. Teenagers will love the road artwork, greenery, and funky city vibe.

Cease 9: Dinner at Obao

Finish your journey with dinner at Obao in Hell’s Kitchen. This fusion spot blends Thai and Vietnamese flavors with a contemporary twist. It’s a good way to wind down your weekend in NYC, with a scrumptious meal in a restaurant oozing Southeast Asian calm.

Our meal highlights had been the spring rolls, Vietnamese pho, and mango sticky rice – my favourite dessert ever. I additionally loved their Comrade Get together cocktail with tequila, triple sec, lime juice, tamarind juice, and chili salt rim.

However most of all, I beloved how this restaurant was on the border of Instances Sq., near our lodge, with much more reasonably priced costs – and no Instances Sq. surcharges. Yep, that’s a factor!

Map of those NYC places

The map beneath has all of the places pinned talked about on this NYC lengthy weekend itinerary. You can also make a duplicate of it after which use it to create your personal strolling instructions and so on. primarily based on what you find yourself selecting to do in New York Metropolis your youngsters.

Ultimate Ideas

An extended weekend in New York Metropolis with teenagers gives the proper mixture of iconic sights, enjoyable actions, and distinctive native experiences. In the event you’re questioning in case your teen will love this lengthy weekend itinerary, you possibly can relaxation assured, 95% of what we did was organized by Kalyra our 17-year-old who loves New York and has been a number of occasions. It was so great to have this one-on-one time along with her on this journey exploring her pursuits in her favourite metropolis!

From the dazzling lights of Instances Sq. to the serene paths of Central Park, there’s one thing right here for everybody to get pleasure from. Whether or not you’re diving into Gossip Lady nostalgia, exploring vibrant neighborhoods, or indulging in among the greatest meals on the planet, NYC supplies infinite alternatives for journey and discovery. With this itinerary, you’re certain to create unforgettable recollections along with your teenagers within the metropolis that by no means sleeps!

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