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A Walking Tour of Downtown Manhattan
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Magnolia Bakery in Greenwich Village, NYC
Though I haven't lived in New York for 7 years, I'm still a frequent visitor. And I've found there's no better way to fall in love with the city all over again than to see it through the eyes of someone visiting for the first time. I enjoyed that exact experience this past Sunday as I guided two friends around lower Manhattan. I've always thought that travelers get the truest look at a place by simply roaming its streets -- watching and meeting locals, hanging out in its bars, cafes and shops.
So I devised this walking tour of downtown NYC that's ideal for sunny spring and summer days:
First, prepare for the day's walk by grabbing a cup of Starbuck's coffee to go. Then head down to Chelsea and explore the neighborhood's many art galleries. Start at 23rd St. and Ninth Avenue, the center of Chelsea, and explore the surrounding blocks. (OK, we slept too late to start our Sunday in Chelsea -- but it's what I recommend.)
Next, head down to SOHO for brunch and shopping. The Cupping Room Cafe at West Broadway and Broom offers a great selection of fare for those with light or hearty appetites -- omelettes, salads, sandwiches and more. I prefer the mix of high-end and grungy stores in SOHO to the shops of Fifth Avenue. You can pop into Bloomingdales, Dolce & Gabana, The New York Look, Canal Jeans, Ricky's, and hundreds of other great shopping venues.
Once you've depleted the funds in your wallet, head over to Greenwich Village. Take West Broadway up to Bleecker Street, the West Village's central artery, and head west. Stop into Magnolia Bakery at the corner of West 11th Street (made famous by the Sex and the City girls) to sample New York's tastiest cupcakes. Double back to Washington Square Park and take in the freak show du jour around the fountain -- or if it's steamy hot, consider cooling off by wading in the water there. Head to the Square's south side and take Thompson Street down to Houston -- stop into Bar 108 for a glass of vino and superb people watching.
In the late afternoon, take a quick subway or taxi ride down to Battery Park. Here you can continue exploring by foot or simply relax on the lawn. If you're up for a nice dinner out, venture over to NOBU or one of the seafood restaurants at Southstreet Seaport.
Whether you're visiting New York for the first or fifty-first time, this is a great way to enjoy a day downtown. And now that the Acela train is cheaper, a weekend excursion from DC is easier than ever.
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