Don’t let this cold and limited winter keep you from exploring some of the best spots in New York City! 

Is New York City still the greatest place to be even during a pandemic? Easy, the answer is YES! While life right now is definitely challenging, that hasn’t forced the city that never sleeps to take a nap. Although there are many indoor activities to do in your home, I’m sure I speak for most of us when I say we’re all missing outdoor experiences. Until I went to experience it for myself I was unsure how adaptable this city could really be. I was in for the best surprise while on my day of adventures because of how much there is to still do in New York City. The kindness, attentiveness, and COVID-friendliness that surrounded me was unbelievable. If you want to continue exploring the best city in the world in a safe, enjoyable way I am going to share my favorites!

outdoor dining

Sadly, the current state of things has taken a sizable toll on restaurants and bars — but after visiting some amazing dining spots throughout the city I can attest first-hand to the incredible adaptations they’ve made to survive. The measures restaurants have taken to make outdoor dining a comfortable experience have surpassed all of our expectations, with the heaters, semi-enclosed spaces and adequately social-distanced seating. I’ve had a great experience with these outdoor dining adjustments, and it’s a great way to support the community of NYC restaurants during this unimaginable time.

p.s.  starting February 14th, indoor dining at a 25% capacity is reopening in NYC!

tourist spots

If you’re one of those people who’ve had a bucket-list full of NYC hotspots you’ve always wanted to visit, now’s the time to go! With travel and tourism being relatively limited right now, a lot of the most popular tourist destinations have little to no wait time — making outings like these a great option, while still social distancing. What a great time to become a “tourist” in your own city! I think we all needed some type of positive outlook on the world right now, so little daytime excursions like these are a fun way to break up the long weeks spent working from home.

vintage / homeware shopping

If you’re looking for a day of casual, relaxed shopping, NYC offers several indoor and outdoor flea markets that you can browse and find unique treasures to bring home. I don’t know if it’s all of the time spent in my apartment, but I’ve been so inspired by interior decorating, design and little homeware knickknacks. If you’re curious about some places to start, the Chelsea Flea is open on weekends… or if you want a more luxurious indoor shopping experience, I love RW Guild!

try experimental coffee flavors

Remi Flowers + Coffee is a cute little café between Murray Hill and Midtown East, where they serve up warm drinks that are as beautiful as their flower bouquets. The barista makes these beautiful matcha and caffè latte drinks that are dusted with dried lavender, rose and other floral flavors and fragrances for a unique drink. They also make for a pretty picture, if you’re looking for a cute Instagram shot! Ending my day out with a warm coffee, along with a beautiful bouquet of flowers to take home was the perfect ending to my day!