Overwhelmed and don’t know where to start planning your next NYC getaway? With literally thousands and thousands of things to see and do, it can make even the most detailed planner manic. In this series, we’ll devour the big apple one little bite at a time. Let’s Wander just two blocks of 41st Street.
Amid the bustle of Midtown, there is an oasis packed with moments of Wandering Zen for the mind, body, and soul. Here are our Top 5 picks…
1 – The Library Hotel
Evenings in the Reading Room
The Library Hotel, a unique boutique in Midtown, is the perfect place to stay when in Manhattan. Aptly named for its proximity to the iconic New York Public Library but also because of the impressive collection of over 6,000 books for guests to peruse. The hotel is cleverly themed with each floor representing a different Dewey Decimal System classification. The theming doesn’t stop there, however, as each room has a collection of books that represents the classification. It is beautifully executed theming. Click for much more on this incredible hotel. Make this home-base for your NYC adventure, a place to rest, recharge, and realign.
2 – The Library Walk
Words of Wisdom!
Covering the entire span of our 2 block adventure, the Library Walk was developed in the late 90’s by the Grand Central Partnership to enhance and enrich the area and provide a thoughtful promenade as you approach the New York Public Library. Not unlike its west coast contemporary, the Walk of Fame, the Library Walk also invites you to look at what’s under your feet. Embedded into the sidewalk are bronze plaques featuring quotes from literature and poetry. You will not want to miss one of the over 40 inspirational and ever-timely messages as you wander 41st Street. For a list of the messages ~ Click Here.
3 – The New York Public Library
The World Awaits.
There are over 85 public libraries in NYC, however, the main branch located at 41st and 5th Avenue is by far the most iconic. The library opened in 1911 and was declared a National Historic Landmark in 1965. There is much to see here for readers and non-readers of all ages. From the moment you are greeted by Patience and Fortitude, the guardian lions at the foot of the steps of the building, you will discover the whole world is at your fingertips. One of my favorite stops is the Map Division, which hosts one of the world’s premier map collections. There are several reading rooms that are must-sees, rotating literary and historical displays, guided tours, self-guided audio tours, one heck of a gift shop, and the original stuffed pals of A. A. Milne’s son, Christopher. Yes, Pooh and his friends from the Hundred Acre Wood reside in the Children’s Library. Your visit will be more rewarding if you do a little research so you don’t miss your zen here!
4 – Benjamin Steakhouse
Not for the Vegetarian
If you are looking for a premier New York City Steakhouse experience, look no farther than Benjamins, located between Park and Madison (across the street from the Library Hotel – quite convenient!) this Midtown eatery makes my mouth water just writing about it! This high-energy restaurant is quintessential Manhattan and the food is out of this world. Our last visit there was over the Thanksgiving holiday and we were excited about bucking the traditional turkey feast in lieu of a great steak dinner. Although they did offer a special (and delicious looking) turkey menu that evening we were able to order selected items from their normal menu. OMG – best Thanksgiving meal EVER! Sorry, Mom! Check out the menus HERE.
5 – The Bar Downstairs
Thank you, may I have another?
Time for a nightcap! The Bar Downstairs is located, well, downstairs in Andaz on the corner of 41st and 5th. Reservations are recommended as this place is hopping, and rightly so. Whether you sit at a table for two, a communal area, or at the bar, you are in for a treat for your taste buds. The mixologists work with fresh ingredients and the drinks can pack a punch. Their creative food offerings complete your experience with, as they put it, ‘distinctive upscale tapas and platos”. It really is a great place and one that is quite easy to miss if you aren’t in the know. Learn More.
Remember, there is no way that you can do NYC in one visit, heck, we just gave you 5 things to do in a two block radius. Join with us and build your personal list of must-sees in NYC so that you can be Forever Wandering But Not Lost!