Archer's Favorite Things To Do In Midtown and New York City
. Chelsea
Buzzing with culture and social diversity, Chelsea bridges the gap between uptown luxury and downtown flair. Home to top-notch contemporary art galleries, great home and fashion boutiques and a plethora of dining and drinking establishments — whether fine dining or watering holes – this neighborhood is sure to have something to please everyone.
Favorite attractions in Chelsea: David Zwirner Gallery, The High Line, Chelsea Market, Chelsea Piers and Ovest Pizzoteca.
. David Zwirner Gallery
As cool as the breeze off of the nearby Hudson River, these 19th and 20th Street galleries are a must for fans of contemporary art. One of the top art dealers in the world, the David Zwirner Gallery features the work of 50+ international, progressive artists and traveling exhibitions from across the world.
. Salon 94 Freemans Alley
This small gallery on a charming lane on New York's Lower East Side — a satellite gallery to its famous flagship on 94th Street — ushers you into a world of photographers, painters and conceptual artists, both new and old. Less than a decade old, the appointment-only venue offers exciting, edgy shows.
. Flatiron Building
It may never have been the city’s tallest building, but it's certainly iconic. A National Historic Landmark over a century old, it’s only a short stroll to this famous 22-story triangular skyscraper, which derives its name from its resemblance to a cast-iron clothes iron.
. Alwyn Court
This is far from your typical 12-story apartment building. With its intricate terra-cotta-decorated exterior and a beautiful interior courtyard, this structure built in the early 1900s was billed as “City Homes for Those With Country Houses” to lure wealthy tenants to live in the city.
. Cooper Union
Founded in 1859, this small, private, higher-learning institution with colleges of architecture, art and engineering showcases buildings for architecture lovers — one building in particular. It’s easy to spot and fall in love with the powerful nine-story, 175,000-square-foot unconventional “green” structure that houses the Albert Nerken School of Engineering.
. One World Trade Center
Towering over everything at a symbolic 1,776 feet and 104 stories high, the Western Hemisphere’s tallest building has become a gorgeous and historic addition to the city’s skyline. To get the full experience and hear the “voices” of the men and women who built it, purchase tickets to the breathtaking 102nd floor — One World Observatory.
. The Cloisters
Overlooking the Hudson River, this landmark and branch of the Metropolitan Museum of Art transports visitors to medieval Europe. Through art, architecture and gardens, enjoy the journey and explore this treasure before returning to modern-day Manhattan.
. Jazz at Lincoln Center
The name of it says it all. The music is first-rate and the views over 57th and Central Park are gorgeous. Enjoy year-round performances that will assuredly have you tapping your toes to the improvised sounds from some of the best musicians in the world.
. Le Poisson Rouge
A cool-groove nightclub with a variety of artists, cover bands and DJs known to hit the stage, this multimedia cabaret is one of the top music venues in the city. Relax on a comfortable leather couch, get a table or show off your dance moves — the venue is designed to “cultivate the relationship between art and revelry.”
. Beautiful at Stephen Sondheim Theatre
One of Broadway’s hidden gems, the inspiring true story of pop musician Carole King’s rise to stardom is sure to strike a chord. Not sure you can name her hits? This musical is bound to feature some familiar songs that will have you singing for the foreseeable future.
. Book of Mormon at Eugene O'Neill Theatre
From the creators of South Park comes a hilarious, entertaining, unconventional and critically acclaimed musical that is far different than your normal Broadway production. Families be forewarned: Language may have you leaving the kiddos at home.
. Wicked at Gershwin Theatre
Hailed as one of the best musicals on Broadway, the untold story of the Witches of Oz is an unforgettable, family-friendly performance with incredible sets, costumes and special effects. It’s a wicked-good story.
. Bubby's
Find your comfort-food fix here. A Tribeca staple, Bubby’s caters to all taste buds. From brunch to dinner with a diverse menu, flexible hours and filling portions, Bubby’s is a hungry dream come true.
. Bryant Park Grill
This park-side grill is a classic favorite. Business or pleasure, lunch or dinner — it’s ideal for all occasions and an easy walk from Archer. Get a table by a window and you’re in for a real treat.
. Ovest Pizzoteca
Sit beneath The High Line in West Chelsea and savor a Naples-style wood and brick oven pizza, homemade pasta or authentic panini crafted from the owner’s secret dough recipe. Open daily from noon to midnight, you’ll love this local industrial gem.
. Volare
This is the local Italian treasure you’ve been seeking. Volare’s sub-street-level dining room has served generous and delectable dishes since the ’70s, and patrons revel in its old-school charm and familial service. You want something not on the menu? Just ask — the Gamberoni fra Diavolo may not be listed but they’ll whip it up, to your delight. Highly recommended: Tortellini alla Vodka, Bistecca Danielle (perhaps the city’s best sirloin) and the widely popular Ossobuco con Risotto.
. Babbo Ristorante
Close sources would say it's the best Italian restaurant in NYC for an intimate dining experience. Take advantage of the pasta or traditional tasting menu (including the wine pairings) — great for date night.
. Gabriel Kreuther
A stunning new restaurant just opened by master chef Gabriel Kreuther, serving up a blend of Alsatian and New York flavors that have garnered rave reviews. It's an easy walk from Archer.
. Ilili
Inspired Mediterranean cuisine is a perfect description. At Ilili, which means “tell me” in Lebanese, each dish has its own story from traditional recipes from Lebanon. It comes highly recommended for a distinctly modern Mediterranean small-plate experience.
. Besfren
Steeped in Korean folklore, this modern and artistic dessert spot blends creative flavors with the distinctive texture of traditional Korean pastries. Chiffon Doughnuts, Triple Chocolate Chip Cookies, Chaps Truffle — yummy.
. Beauty & Essex
Walk through the deceptive storefront doors of an old pawnshop and enter a trendy gem of a restaurant. Get the clients, girls, guys, a date — whomever — and enjoy sophisticated tapas and cool cocktails. No trip is complete without a visit to the WC for a sip of champagne.
. Momofuku Milk Bar
Like milk at the bottom of a bowl of cornflakes, the cereal milk (served in a bottle or milkshake or in soft-serve form) is the perfect mid-afternoon pick-me-up. And so is the crack pie — the compost cookie and b’day truffles. This award-winning bakery is the brainchild of chef and owner Christina Tosi.
. McSorley's Old Ale House
You have two options: dark beer and light beer. That’s it, and the beer is as good as the history of the establishment. The oldest Irish tavern in New York City has bragging rights for beer lovers everywhere.
212.473.9148
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. The Tippler
Looking for a cocktail spot? Look no further than this sizable meatpacking district tavern. Located in the cellar space below the Chelsea Market, take in the speakeasy-like atmosphere, order a creative craft cocktail and be sure to look up.
. Stone Street Tavern
In the heart of the financial district lies a gastro pub (named in honor of being the first paved street in New York City) that the locals love. It’s very lively and fun and in a busy area full of history. Stone Street is closed to traffic, so if the weather is nice, sit outside and enjoy a drink in good company.
. Children's Museum of Manhattan
Traveling with younger children? Here’s a fun, educational and interactive indoor playground for the kids to explore. Consisting of five floors, some energy will be spent, no doubt.
. Piermont, NY
The village of Piermont is an idyllic day trip, just a short drive from the city’s hustle and bustle. Quaint shops, local eats and a Hudson riverfront setting are at the foot of the Tallman Mountains.
. American Museum of Natural History
The largest natural history museum in the world features 45 permanent exhibition halls within approximately 25 interconnected buildings. This iconic exploration place is simply amazing with so much to see. It's great for the whole family.
. Brooklyn Bridge
Take a little time to walk this National Historic Landmark at any hour of the day. It’s free, fun and well worth the trek. Stroll over the East River on the bridge connecting the Manhattan and Brooklyn boroughs and take some incredible photos, especially at sunset.
. The High Line
Just under 1 1/2 miles long, this is a phenomenal place in Chelsea for some fresh air and conversation. The landscape architecture is memorable with plantings carefully selected — some with special scents. It’s a great way to spend a few hours enjoying New York.
. ABC Carpet & Home
By far, ABC is the most creative and eclectic furniture store around. You don’t even need to be in the market for anything; it's a fun place to check out, walk around, get ideas and enjoy people watching. Be sure to eat at either ABC Cocina or ABC Kitchen while you’re there.
. The Spa at Trump SoHo
A luxurious day-spa retreat with a rooftop bar, dining and pool — a rare and bliss-filled combination in NYC. With selections of classic treatments inspired by wellness rituals from across the world, the spa features Turkish décor and private hammams (Turkish baths) for men and for women.
. Boat Basin
If you're in NYC and have the chance to rent a bike on a beautiful day, spend the afternoon peddling up the West Side Highway to the Boat Basin, a marina originally built in 1937. (You can park your bike next to your table so it’s safe.) Enjoy a simplistic meal with a glass of beer while overlooking the Hudson River.
. Manhattan Sideways
The roads less traveled will lead you to your new favorite spot. Discover small businesses, hidden gems and local treats from founder and creator Betsy Polivy. Anything you’re looking to do, and for whatever occasion, she's found it and is happy to share.
. Limelight Shops
A landmark 19th-century church that once housed a Manhattan nightclub, the three-story shopping emporium is lit up with some of the best in food, fashion, art, beauty, home furnishings and dining. Shopping here is fun.
. Eataly
Mario Batali’s Italian wonderland, filled with stores and eateries, is sure to keep you entertained and satisfied. It’s a fun place to walk around; grab a coffee or snack while enjoying the surrounding neighborhoods. Very European.
. Murray's Cheese Shop
Cheese galore! The city’s second-to-none charcuterie and cheese shop was founded in 1940 and has become a destination for food lovers from around the world. Murray’s ships cheese nationwide — just the incentive to upgrade the appetizers for your next party back home.
. Balthazar
An authentic bistro that will make you feel like you’ve been transported to France, the charm and design of the establishment is renowned. The raw seafood bar, the breads and pastries from Balthazar’s own bakery — delicieux!
. Chelsea Flea Market
Next to some of New York's most iconic attractions — the Flatiron Building, Eataly, Madison Square Park (worth a visit in their own rights) — Chelsea Flea Market houses a massive collection of antiques, collectibles, ephemera, decorative arts, vintage clothing and jewelry. You'll be hard-pressed to leave without a few new hidden gems of your own.
. Élevée
Just down the street from Archer, professional athletes and stylish men alike can't get enough of the bespoke suits and on-trend styles at Élevée. Featured in Esquire Magazine and voted one of the best suit makers in the country, its New York store offers a luxe experience crowned by an ultramodern Robo Golf simulator. Stop in for the best-fitting suit of your life and leave with two strokes off your golf game.
. Bryant Park Yoga
It doesn’t get more New York than this. A mass yoga session on Bryant Park’s sprawling green space. From May 11 through September 14, classes are held on Tuesday mornings and Thursday evenings. Free of charge, you can RSVP here; walk-ins are welcome.
. NoMad Bar
A great bar that serves superb food and premium cocktails, the NoMad Bar begs you to do more than drink. The masculine, bilevel drinking den is outfitted with a soaring mirrored bar, plump leather booths and a working fireplace. As you sit back cozy and warm, you can peruse the list of premium drinks and the infamous "reserve cocktails.”
. Circle Line Landmarks Cruise
Promising stunning photo ops of NYC’s most iconic landmarks, this 1.5-hour cruise gets you within 100 feet of the Statue of Liberty and a slew of midtown and lower Manhattan’s most famous sites: Ellis Island, the Brooklyn Bridge and Wall Street, just to name a few. Kid-friendly with language app.
. Maialino
Inspired by the familial cooking of Rome's distinct neighborhoods, Maialino serves up rustic and approachable food just off the lobby of the Gramercy Park Hotel. The pièce de résistance, however, is its five-course Sicilian-inspired evening tasting menu. The trattoria is a nontipping restaurant. Hospitality is included. Nice.
. Taboon
A taboon is a domed oven and both the namesake and cornerstone of this well-loved "Middleterranean" restaurant on a quiet corner in Hell’s Kitchen. The menu (inspired by both Middle Eastern and Mediterranean flavors) features such classics as freshly baked focaccia, branzino and lamb kebabs.
. The Spotted Pig
Chef April Bloomfield, partner Ken Friedman and legions of fans celebrate a decade of innovative British/Italian pub eats in this West Village staple. Serving seasonal variations of gastropub classics, the burger is served with Roquefort, the Cubano with arugula and the grilled cheese with onion marmalade and whole-grain mustard.
. Maison Première
A take on the classic oyster bars of New Orleans and Paris, Maison Premiere serves up 30 different varieties of the delicacy. Briny and perfectly prepared, your oysters can be washed down via the largest absinthe list in the city. Consumed straight or in clever cocktails, it's a great chance to discover a spirit known to many as "the green fairy."
. Buvette
In French, buvette describes a quiet and peaceful place to eat or drink, regardless of the hour. The menu and style of this chic eatery provide just that. Whether stopping in for your ritualistic morning espresso, enjoying a leisurely lunch or imbibing with friends or co-workers after a long day, Buvette has you covered in style — French style.
. 44 & X
Natural light from large windows shine in on this quintessential brunch spot. It offers a basket of sweet muffins and artisan jams to start your meal. After eating one too many of those tasty morsels, you’ll move on to such upscale brunch classics as the eggs royal — perfectly poached eggs placed atop salmon and a lightly toasted English muffin before being coated in rich hollandaise and topped with decadent salmon roe.
. The Skylark NYC
Offering an air of exclusivity, the entrance to this 30th-story rooftop bar is part of the experience. Winding through a basement, a dimly lit corridor, an elevator with a specifically marked "Skylark" button and, finally, a few short steps will get you to your location. You’ll then step into panoramic views of midtown in a cocktail lounge offering cleverly crafted drinks and thoughtfully prepared small plates. Bring a friend and a camera.
. "Dear Evan Hansen"
Parenting has never been an easy job. But now, with the proliferation of social media, the task is even tougher. It’s these dynamics that "Dear Evan Hansen" digs into so deeply. The experience has been described as cathartic and heart-wrenching — an especially poignant performance for parents, but a must-see for all. Don’t plan on leaving with dry eyes.
. Turnstyle
TurnStyle reimagines and repurposes two blocks of abandoned subway tunnel under Columbus Circle from 57th Street and 8th Avenue to 59th Street into a bustling shopping center. Sample the small-batch artisanal food market, Farm to People, or buy a clever canvas tote from Mulberry and Grand. With dozens of eateries and shops, you’ll leave wondering what else is hidden underground.
. Mikey Likes It
What do you get when you take all-natural ice cream and scoop on a heavy dose of pop culture? Mikey Likes It. Serving up such reimagined favorites as Ice Ice Baby and colorful concoctions as the Parliament Funkadelic, you might not get all the references, but you will be tempted to try all the flavors.
. Best Bagels
Hand-rolled, crispy-crusted, ever-fresh bagels — all within walking distance of Archer. That's all the recommendation you need.
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. Employees Only
This inimitable speakeasy in the heart of the West Village is hallowed ground for all things cocktail. Serving flawless drinks in a beautiful space, all without pretense, Employees Only is frequently listed as one of the best cocktails bars in the world. Expect a wait and a price worthy of these unique creations. Sitting at the bar watching the bartenders sling drinks undoubtedly gives a new perspective on the artistry of a mixed drink.
. The National
Noted celebrity chef Geoffrey Zakarian brings his signature sophistication and modern American cuisine to this go-to restaurant. The breakfast menu is packed full of elevated classics, such as smoked salmon eggs benedict, apple walnut pancakes and avocado toast. Expect only premium ingredients and a new favorite breakfast spot.
. Culture Espresso
Purists will love Archer’s best of New York and coffee shop neighbor. Culture Espresso is one of those rare, independent, locally owned shops serving up only the freshest beans, rotating where they source those beans and monitoring every aspect of the brewing process for the perfect cup of coffee every time. No trip to Culture is complete without one of their impossibly gooey, ever-warm, chocolate chip cookies.
. abcV
Clean lines and bright whites, meet pops of color and exposed concrete in the newest of chef Jean-Georges' abc empire. The pronounced V stands for the all-vegetarian and vegan menu. Serving a bevy of morning shakes, dosas, toasts and chia bowls, the menu is packed full of flavor.
. Maison Kayser
Eric Kayser and his team opened their first shop in Paris in 1996. Since then, the master boulangerie has opened 100 more across the world. Serving the best and most authentic French breads in the city, stop in for a croissant, pain au chocolat or any of a dozen small French breakfast items. Merveilleux.
. John's of Bleecker Street
Walking into John’s is like walking into a museum of the 1930s. You’ll see well-used wooden booths, faded murals and an art deco floor worn by countless visitors. But, before you see the décor of the “original” John’s, you’ll smell the magic. Simmering tomatoes, charcoal-crisped crust and roasted garlic will instantly set your stomach growling. This is iconic NYC pizza. Bring a friend and order the enormous medium; they don’t sell slices.
. Black Tap Craft Burgers & Beer
Your classic burger bar's been elevated for the Instagram age. Bring your camera and order one of its internet-famous "Crazy Shakes." These picturesque creations are one of a kind. Difficult to describe, they're something you have to see to believe.
. Dominique Ansel Bakery
The Cronut® is still the most virally discussed dessert of all time; however, James Beard Award-winning chef Ansel won’t let innovation die. This industry-pushing bakery never rests, recently responsible for the cookie shot, (espresso or milk served inside an edible cookie shot glass) and the Gingerbread Pinecone (just like it sounds, a feat of baking marvel — and delicious). Chef Ansel has been termed “the Willy Wonka of New York.”
. Keens Steakhouse
After opening the heavy wooden door, you are transported into the not-so-distant past: dim lights, wood-paneling and turn-of-the-century décor. Keens (no apostrophe) started collecting single malt scotch in the 1980s. Now, the collection has grown to more than 300 labels, many of which are from distilleries no longer in operation. Don't worry about the pretense surrounding Scotch; the staff is happy to help you navigate the extensive menu.
. Bronx Zoo
The largest metropolitan zoo in the United States, the Bronx Zoo welcomes 2.15 million visitors every year. The park is known globally for its wide array of large and diverse species. Splurge for the Wild Asia Monorail, a 2.6 km ride that offers views of animals impossible to see otherwise.
. Top of the Rock® Observation Deck
The Top of the Rock® Observation Deck is famous for its sweeping, panoramic views of midtown and unobstructed views of Central Park. It’s a 70th-floor photo op you won’t want to miss. Timed tickets make it easy to fit this in to your itinerary.
. Via Carota
Beloved chefs Jodi Williams and Rita Sodi transport 17th-century Florence tradition and recipes to this West Village gastroteca. With an ever-changing and always-fresh menu, snack-size dishes of lightly fried artichokes, plates of grilled octopus and bowls of rich, handmade pastas, you can expect a storied Italian feast. No reservations are necessary, but the crusty bread alone is worth the wait.
. Central Park
Central Park, in all its 843 splendid acres, is not to be missed. Perfect for first-time visitors, a pedicab tour offers a way for you to see much of the park without having to worry about navigating. The colorful drivers/tour guides can take you past all the park’s main attractions (there are a lot) in one- to four-hour rides. Sit back and enjoy the experience, knowing that your driver has an encyclopedic knowledge of the most Instagram-worthy spots. If you’ve been before, try The North Woods Tour. Waterfalls, wooden bridges, and picture-perfect ponds make this a woodsy retreat impossible to find anywhere else in the city.
. Riverpark
Serving up farm-to-table fare in a unique garden plaza with an intimate view of the East River, Riverpark begs to be your next date-night destination. The menu changes daily, focusing on ingredients that are sustainably raised or grown in the urban farm just feet from the kitchen.
. Ladurée
The Ladurée family was the first to combine the community of a Parisian café with the delicacies of a French patisserie — and the idea was well-received. Now, 150 years later, Ladurée is on six continents and sells 15,000 of its iconic macarons every day. Now a global luxury brand, visiting one of the dozens of “houses” all over the world instantly delivers an air of French class, even if you’re 3,600 miles from Paris.
. Bistro Chat Noir
This quaint bistro turns on the French flair with such Parisian classics as escargot, steak tartar and lobster bisque. Nestled on the first level of an old townhouse, you’ll feel like you're visiting the owner, Susan, in her Parisian flat — not escaping NYC tourists steps outside of Central Park.
. SoulCycle
Fitness and fat-burning fun, SoulCycle is indoor cycling reinvented. Dim lights, epic spaces and rocking music combine to create an environment where you can clear your head and get a body-sculpting workout. Pro tip: While you can just walk in, it’s preferred if you book your spot online; class space can be limited.