Globespotting: 24 Hours in New York

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Oct 16, 2012 —  Within the concrete jungle that is New York, there are more gems – some hidden, and some in plain sight – than perhaps any other city in the world. After all, New York is not just the financial capital of the world; it’s also the entertainment, shopping, restaurant, bar, and cultural mecca of the world.

From countless museums and beautiful parks to incredible theater and famous architecture, New York’s eclectic offerings can satisfy even the most idiosyncratic of tastes. Each neighborhood offers a wide array of individuality, even giving locals a daily opportunity to explore the unique culture and tapestry of different environments.

And just like New York City’s backdrop, the diversity of culinary and drinking options is also unmatched. A lifetime in New York is insufficient to expansively explore and keep up with the constant additions to its landscape. We’ve packed in a full 24 hours in the city that never sleeps, but our list is always evolving, which means you’ll have to come back and visit again, real soon. 

Start your day at Wilfie & Nell for a delicious brunch. A cramped West Village favorite where you can just as easily end your day as begin it, Wilfie & Nell offers the spiciest of Bloody Marys, house-made crunchy granola, and melt-in-your-mouth grilled cheese and egg sandwiches. The laid-back atmosphere, rustic setting and good people-watching will surely set your day off right.

After you’ve sated your stomach, head north to Chelsea Market for a quintessential NYC experience. The bustling indoor market features artisan shops, restaurants, cafés, and a mini waterfall. The smell of fresh-made bread and pastries will awaken your senses in this European-style bazaar. You’re likely to end up spending more time than planned, with sample sales and innovative shops like Ronnybrook Dairy, One Lucky Duck, the green table and Eleni’s vying for your attention.

From Chelsea Market, it’s only a short walk through the popular Meatpacking District up to The Highline. A stunning addition to one of New York’s most under-developed areas, The Highline offers unique city views and stunning vistas of Hudson River sunsets. The former railroad tracks extend over a mile long from 34^th Street down into the heart of the Meatpacking District with various stops along the way where handholding couples can have a drink at Terroir on “The Porch” or a homemade hibiscus popsicle from People’s Pops. There are numerous spots along the Highline that allow those making the walk to descend back down in the city streets and explore the various shops and restaurants with views of the Hudson River. 

Exploration of Manhattan’s West Side continues at the Hudson Terrace, where you can choose an innovative cocktail from the extensive drink menu while watching the sunset from one of New York’s warm-weather favorites. Check out the Salon, Rooftop Garden Lounge (weather permitting), or Garden Terrace at this former horse stable turned nighttime hot spot.

Heading back downtown, it’s time for dinner at The Waverly Inn. Famed for its truffle mac and cheese, this dimly lit, intimate New York institution not only offers legendary – albeit pricey – dishes, but you are more than likely to see an A-list celeb here. 

After dinner, turn due west and make your way to The Jane Hotel. Inside the turn-of-the-century hotel is the ever-steady hotspot The Jane Ballroom, which is a trendy drinking den with a really cool history. It actually housed survivors of the Titanic in 1912!

And once you’ve officially had your fill of classy drinking and dining, just walk up a block to The Double Seven where a late night of Brazilian beats and craft cocktails will get you dancing with a see-and-be-seen crowd till 4am.