“The City That Never Sleeps,” “The Big Apple,” “The City So Nice They Named It Twice”—no matter what nickname you give it, New York has and will always be iconic. If you’re getting ready for a trip to NYC, even packing can feel like fun. You’re tearing through your closet, scrolling through mood boards, and refreshing your Pinterest—all to find that perfect NYC look. But, let’s be real: it can feel a liiittleee stressful too, right?
Between the places to explore and nightlife to enjoy, you have to make every outfit count. Everywhere you turn, it basically feels like the perfect impromptu photo op. So, what deserves a spot in your suitcase and what’s fine to be left behind?
After my trip to New York City a little while back, I wanted to dedicate a full post to the best things to do and the cutest outfits to wear. Think of this post as your helpful packing and itinerary guide! And don’t worry, everything is high-quality, affordable, and perfectly fits that New York City vibe—thanks, Amazon! Without further ado, let’s dive in.
*This post may contain affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission, at no cost to you, if you make a purchase through any links!*
Things to do in NYC
The city is huge, so pinpointing places you wanna go and things you wanna see can feel like a huge, daunting task. Instead of combing through the millions of activities, let me make it easy for you! Here’s everything I did on my trip to New York and why I think each stop deserves a spot in your itinerary. And, for convenience, I separated each activity into separate subheadings so you can scroll and add as you go!
Best Cocktail Bars in NYC
Barcelona Bar
First on the list of things to do in NYC: visit Barcelona Bar. We randomly stumbled upon this “shot” bar, and it was one of the coolest bars I’ve been to. They have 100 flavors of different shots you can get—yep, you read that right.. You can choose either acting shots (where they act out a scene like Harry Potter), music shots or just different flavored $6 shots. And, they let you know if they are made with fireball, whiskey, vodka, tequila, cream, or rum. My favorites were the chocolate pretzel and cinnamon toast!
Starbucks Reserve
I can’t say that I thought I’d ever add Starbucks to a “best cocktail bars in NYC” list, but here we are! This was another super cool spot. Basically, it’s a massive Starbucks where you can drink alcohol. They have a huge range of different coffee-inspired drinks, but they also have regular options (martinis, wines, and seasonal beers), too.
I’ll be honest, they’re a little pricey! But my espresso martini flight pictured above was sooo good. They have two locations—one in the Chelsea neighborhood and one in the Empire State Building. If you end up trying it out, let me know which drink you got!
Castell Rooftop Bar
Castell Rooftop Bar was absolutely STUNNING, offering open air and incredible views of midtown Manhattan. They had a cute and cozy outdoor seating area that would probably be even more breathtaking at nighttime. I got the “Honey I’m Home” cocktail, but the food was a little pricey, so we opted to grab that elsewhere. Also, outfit details for this one will be shared soon!
Loreley Beer Garden
Loreley Beer Garden is another really fun spot in New York to grab drinks! I got a Moscow mule, and my friend grabbed the rose, which she loved. We sat outside because the warm weather felt so nice, but the decor inside is super vibrant and pink! It’s a chic little stop if you’re looking for a midday treat amidst all your other fun NYC activities.
Outfit details to come, but until then, you can shop the pink snakeskin purse here!
Where to Eat in NYC
H&H Bagels
If you’re visiting New York, a place known for their bagels, get some is a signature must-do. There are so many different places to grab bagels, but we stopped at H&H. These bagels were massive and delicious—I can’t rave about them enough. If bagels aren’t totally your thing, they also have different sandwich options you can choose from.
There’s a location in Midtown Manhattan, the Upper East Side, and the Upper West Side. Make sure to stop by if it isn’t out of the way!
Very Fresh Noodles
Very Fresh Noodles is located in Chelsea Market. The line was super long (as expected), but it was 100% worth it. If you don’t like spicy food it may not be the best choice for you since all of the options are pretty spicy. There are a few options that you can adjust the spice level on, but just comb their menu before you go and see if something catches your eye!
Sunac Natural Market
Sunac Natural Market is yet another spot we grabbed bagels at. These were good, but in my opinion, they had nothing on H&H bagels! That said, they do have a handful of locations right in the heart of the city, so it’s definitely a good place to drop in for a snack or lunch if you’re nearby.
If you’re not craving bagels, they have a ton of other easy grab-and-go food options, instead. You can snag a coffee, protein bar, smoothie, salad, sandwich, or just a quick snack.
Beyond Sushi
One of my friends I went to New York with is a Vegan so she wanted to try out Beyond Sushi. Personally, I prefer regular sushi, but I’m always willing to give new restaurants a shot. I honestly was really surprised how similar this vegan roll tasted to regular sushi. So, if you’re in the market for super yummy vegan sushi in NYC, head to Beyond Sushi!
Erin McKenna’s Bakery
Erin McKenna’s Bakery was featured on Gossip Girl, so of course I had to try it LOL. It’s on the Lower East Side of Manhattan, making it quick and easy to get to. Their menu is fully vegan- and gluten-free, but you’d have no idea. I got a few of their classic donuts, but they have SO many unique sweets to choose from—like cookie tacos, desert dogs, a burger (cupcake) sliders. You have to stop in and treat yourself!
Where to Go for Drinks and Food in NYC
Hotel Chantelle
I totally wish I got more pictures here because Hotel Chantelle was one of my favorite places in New York. The food was delicious (I got chicken and waffles) and there were so many other options that looked amazing. They also have bottomless drinks, allowing you to get 4 drink pitchers of their cocktails for a cheaper price. Which, not only is that a steal deal, but the cocktails were all really good!
The Mean Fiddler
The Mean Fiddler was hands down my favorite spot I visited in New York during my trip. We did bottomless brunch here, and the food and drinks were to die for. The service was spot on as well! A few things to note before going here: there is a smart casual dress code, you have to be 21+ to enter, and they allow walk-ins only on Mondays through Fridays.
Things to Do in NYC
Central Park
First on the list of things to do in NYC: Central Park! If you haven’t been to Central Park, it’s a definite must see. Aside from the stunning views, there’s surprisingly so much to do. You can go to the Central Park Zoo, visit the Bethesda Terrace and Fountain, or simply just have a cute picnic on the grass. It’s a place where locals and visitors love to hangout.
The outfit I’m wearing in these pictures have sold out, but you can still shop the shoes here!
The Highline
Here’s the really cool thing about The Highline: it’s an elevated park that was built on top of a former Central Railroad spur. Kinda cool, right? It has city views, art installations, occasional live music performances, greenery to sit back and relax in—it has it all. It’s definitely one of those New York hidden gems that most people don’t think to visit during their getaway.
The Met
Another classic New York spot that’s a must-see if you haven’t before. The Met was also on Gossip Girl so for that reason, there was no way I was gonna miss seeing it, lol. On the outside, you can find locals and visitors enjoy lunch, catching up with friends, or simply just soaking up the sun. And, on the inside, you can find incredible art installations from all different cultures and time periods. It’s a stunning location both inside and out.
Elsewhere Brooklyn
Elsewhere Brooklyn is a super fun live music venue and club we ended up going to, and we had a blast. They have three stories worth of dance floors, stages, and room to dance. And, as if the experience wasn’t good enough, the second picture was the view from the rooftop! I definitely recommend adding this to your list of things to do in NYC so you can check it out yourself.
The dress I’m wearing in this picture is unfortunately sold out, but you can shop a similar style here!
Grand Central Terminal
This, again, was featured on Gossip Girl, lol. But aside from that, this is another iconic tourist spot to visit during your trip. It’s actually the world’s largest train station, and it’s packed full of rich history and stunning architecture. It honestly kind of feels like stepping back in time to the early New York Days!
Outfits I Wore in NYC
Before we jump into the packing list, here are a handful of outfits on my own trip. Hopefully this can help give you some inspo while you plan your outfits! I also shared even more New York outfits from Amazon here and here, so make sure to check those out as well!
Make sure to follow me on Instagram for a try-on of all these items under my highlights and more Amazon fashion finds! If you don’t have Instagram, don’t forget to check out my Amazon storefront with even more Amazon fashion that I love.
White Tee and Black Skirt
This simple but cute outfit was perfect for a day trip to Central Park. If you have been to or live in New York, you know that fall can still get super hot. Fortunately, this kept me cool and chic all day long. The sneakers were also life-saving, by the way! You’ll want to pack a few of your best pairs for all the walking you’re bound to do.
Corset Body Suit and Lightwash Jeans
This outfit just screams cute, casual, and comfy. It’s dressy without feeling too dressy, and laid back without feeling lazy. It’s the perfect look to wear whether you’re headed out for dinner or on your way to Times Square.
I also love this look because it’s extremely versatile. If it’s chilly, throw on a cute structured jacket! If you wanna transform it into a chic going out look, throw on a few accessories and switch out the sneakers for heels. It’s as easy as that! The original bodysuit may be sold out, but you can shop here for an identical style!
Graphic Tee and Biker Shorts
Sometimes all you wanna do is throw on a cozy oversized graphic tee and a pair of biker shorts and call it a day. And even in New York, that’s totally okay! Wear this outfit to Brooklyn Heights, Brooklyn Bridge Park, the Brooklyn Museum… I’m just playing off the t-shirt here, lol.
Seriously, this outfit is great for anything. Whether you’re lounging around your hotel or running out to H&H Bagels, you can’t go wrong with this good throw-on-and-go look.
Halter Top and Wide-Leg Pants
This look just screams New York fashion to me. It’s chic, flowy, a little bit sexy but still sophisticated—it checks all the boxes. This would the perfect outfit to where somewhere that calls for a little class, like the Museum of Modern Art or the World Trade Center Memorial and Museum.
This is also one of those outfits that can work in every season. The pants, though they look thick, are super lightweight and breathable. The top I’m wearing in the picture may be sold out, so shop here for a similar style!
Cami Bodysuit and Lightwash Jeans
This is THE going out look if you don’t feel like throwing on a dress. It’s cute, easy to personalize with accessories and shoes, and looks suitable no matter what your night may entail. Even if you don’t wear this on a night you go out, you can still get use of it and wear it to your trip to the Statue of Liberty or the Rockefeller Center!
It doesn’t show too much skin, but it looks cute and put-together. This is an outfit I still wear on repeat long after my trip to New York. The bodysuit I originally linked to has sold out, but you can shop here for a similar tank top style!
Corset Top and Leather Shorts
You know what I’m gonna say… this is an outfit you can do anything in. But it’s true! The great thing about New York is it’s unique blend of style and fashion. You could wear this to something as simple as a trip on the Staten Island Ferry and no one will question it. (Which, honestly, you should—it’s another fantastic photo op!).
I’m obsessed with how simple it is to put together but how cute the final product looks. Also, it’s just as comfortable and high-quality as it looks! The original corset has since sold out, but you can shop a similar style here!
Halter Top and Satin Skirt
I told you I’d come back to this outfit! This was honestly probably one of my favorite looks of the trip. It was so cute, so comfy, and so chic. I love how even though it shows a little bit of skin, it doesn’t feel like too much. I wore it to get drinks at a rooftop bar (as you know), but you can wear it for a dinner or night out.
A couple of the original items have since sold out, but don’t worry—I’ve found replacements for you guys. Shop here a similar skirt and here for a similar top.
NYC Packing List
White Sneakers
White sneakers are an essential for New York! No if, ands, or buts about it. If you visit New York, plan on doing a ton of walking. (My fitness pal steps were 30,000+ daily!). These are my favorite white sneakers from Amazon, and I get a ton of use out of them even when I’m not on vacation.
Puma Sneakers go literally everything. Not to mention, they break in super quickly so you don’t have to worry about blisters. I wouldn’t have survived New York without them!
These are another pair of super cute sneakers I packed in my suitcase. They look ideal for athleisure looks, but you can really pair them with a cute shirt and nice pair of pants, too!
White platform sneakers are a staple. They’re simple, cute, and easy to wear on repeat no matter what you’re wearing on top.
Trendy Bags
Because you’ll be on the go most of the time, it’s important to have a cute bag to hold all of your essentials. Think: wallet, phone, sunglasses, etc. These are my favorite trendy bags that I wore when I was in New York!
This bag is small enough to hold everything you need, without being too small—you know what I mean! Though the original style sold out, the similar product linked is just as cute and perfectly sized.
You probably saw this bag in a ton of different pictures above—I wear it everywhere. It’s cute, adds visual interest, and it’s just the right size.
If you need a clear purse while in New York (which, surprisingly, you may!), then I can’t recommend this one enough. It’s big enough to hold all the important stuff, but it isn’t bulky and hard to hold on to. It also comes with a cute little interior pouch, which always comes in handy!
This is another one of those small-but-mighty bags that can do it all. The original one I linked to did unfortunately sell out, but the similarly linked bag is just as good.
Liquid IV
If you plan on going out and drinking at all, I recommend bringing some Liquid IV. There’s nothing worse than feeling like crap and being hungover on a trip. We stayed out late quite a few times so this was a lifesaver for us!
Affordable & cute sunglasses
Sunglasses are important in New York. You have to think about all the tall buildings reflecting that sun right back at you—you’re gonna want a little eye protection. Plus, a cute pair of sunglasses elevates any outfit. And when they’re affordable? Even better.
Something about a cat eye style makes me instantly fall in love. They add just the right amount of polish without feeling too oversized.
Who doesn’t love a pair of hexagon sunglasses? They’re a fun switch-up to some of the traditional styles we all know and love. Plus, this pair is polarized! Even better.
Everyone needs a solid pair of circle glasses, and I stand by that. They gold detailing on this pair makes me love them even more.
If you do want a chunkier cat eye, this has to be the pair you grab. They’re definitely that “I’m here to make a statement” pair, which made me add them to my cart (and suitcase) instantly.
This itinerary and packing list is designed to take the stress out of planning!
And there you have it! These are all the things to do in NYC, a few outfits I wore during my own trip, and a handful of essentials I couldn’t live without. Although packing can feel fun, or stressful, or a little bit of both, it always helps to have a little bit of guidance! As soon as you get home from your trip, tell me everything you did! I can’t wait to read all about it.
For more travel guides, packing lists, and outfits to wear, check out these posts:
