MY NYC BUCKET LIST (EVERYTHING I DID BEFORE I MOVED)

Before I left New York City and started a new chapter in Atlanta, I had a few things on my #NYCBucketList. Some are things that I hadn’t had the opportunity to do in the city, and others are places I wanted to revisit one last time. But mostly my list included making a final lap around Manhattan to soak up as many New York moments as I could. Obviously with the current circumstances due to covid, I had to keep in mind what’s actually open and accessible. But I’m happy with what I was able to see/do and have those memories added to so many more over the past 6 years.

Everything I did before I moved:

• Make a final loop around Central Park (86th street down to the South entrance near The Plaza Hotel)

• Visit Bryant Park

• Have cocktails at Dante

• Grab coffee at my favorite coffee shops (Bluestone Lane, Irving Farm)

• Walk around the West Village

• Visit Levain Bakery for one last chocolate chip cookie

• Enjoy a day in Central Park

• See a Flower Flash in person

• Walk around the Upper Westside (my favorite neighborhood)

• Take a photo in front of Carrie Bradshaw’s apartment

• Buy some NYC street art to take with me to hang up in my new apartment

• Walk around Little Italy & have dinner at random restaurant (Eat pasta & drink wine)

• Visit Madison Square Park

• Grab one last NYC slice of pizza from Bleecker Street Pizza

• Walk through Times Square and sit on the Red Steps

• Visit Bite Beaty Lip Lab in SoHo (create custom lipstick)

• Go Apple Picking

• Host a final dinner with friends

• Watch the sunset from a rooftop

• Take a weekend trip Upstate with friends

• Dine al fresco a few favorite restaurants * Boqueria, Dante, Boucherie

• Walk the Brooklyn Bridge at Sunrise

  **(Unfortunately, I ran out of time and didn’t get to do this) But I have walked the Brooklyn Bridge many times, including sunset. So I’m holding onto those memories for now.)
  

And on one of my very last night’s in the city I was surprised by friends with a Farewell Dinner Party. We drank lots of champagne, consumed copious amounts of charcuterie and I cried lots of tears!! It was the best night and possibly the best way to end my New York City chapter.

See photos below of all my last moments in the city

It was definitely bittersweet to leave this incredible city behind. But when I look back, I will have such fond memories of every place I went, every person I came into contact with, every restaurant I sat with friends at, every New York moment I was so fortunate to experience. The memories are what I will take with me and forever carry with me throughout my lifetime. Thank you for letting me share these past 6 years with you in New York. I can’t wait to share more, in the next chapter!

XO, Dana Rae

A NEW CHAPTER: WHERE & WHY I'M MOVING

This is difficult to write for many reasons. So much has changed and happened this year. And well, sometimes you have to close one chapter in order to welcome a new one.

It’s bittersweet to announce; I am leaving New York City and moving to Atlanta, Ga.

(it’s hard to even type those words out)

This hasn’t been an easy decision to make, especially during a pandemic. At first, it was really hard to come to grips with the fact that my last year living in NYC was mostly taken over by Covid-19. Being quarantined for months, and not being able to experience the city to it’s fullest is not how I imagined my last year here. But I realized that I’ve had an incredible 6 years here and I’ve been very lucky to call this city home. 

For those of you who may not know, I actually moved to New York City from Atlanta. I never saw myself living in New York until I visited a few times in my early 30s, and gradually fell in love with the city. As a bonus, my best friend was already living here and had been trying to convince me for years, to move to New York. In late 2014, I finally took the leap and made the moved here. At the time I was ready for a change, and New York seemed like the perfect place to experience big changes. You can read more here on my move to New York and my first year living in the city.

Initially, I moved with the intention of living in New York for a year to see how I would like living here. But one year turned into two, which turned into three, and then four and here I am, almost six years later. I never really thought twice about leaving, until this year. I think for many of us, 2020 has changed us and made us re-evaluate certain things in our lives. Especially living in New York City during COVID-19, it has been difficult and makes me wonder what the future holds for the city.

I absolutely love living in Manhattan and enjoy the city lifestyle. But I’ve come to realize that the older I get, the more I crave having a home, being closer to friends and family and maybe settling down one day. Living in New York City has provided me with so many amazing experiences and given me a new outlook on life in general. It helped make me into the person that I am today. And the more I think about it, New York City ultimately gave me everything I never even knew I needed, in a time when I needed it most. I have no regrets about picking up my life and moving here. It still remains to be one of the best decisions I’ve made in my life.

But as the saying goes, all good things must come to an end. Although this chapter of my life is coming to a close, I am excited for a new chapter to begin. And Atlanta is the next best place for me to do that.

With all that being said, I thought I would go ahead and answer a few questions that I’ve been asked so far from friends and family. Hopefully this helps to give more insight into my move.

WHY ATLANTA?!

For several reasons actually. I’ve aways planned to move back. I just didn’t know when that time would be exactly. I still have 75% of all my belongings in a storage unit there. I didn’t know how long I would be in NYC, so initially I placed everything in storage and have kept it there this entire time. Also, moving back down South puts me closer to my family. I have family in Florida, Alabama and Tennessee, so it will be nice to be within driving distance of them. And several of my closest girlfriends all live in ATL, so I’m really excited to be able to see them more often. Atlanta is also somewhere I see myself living a city lifestyle but also having the ability to slow down when needed.

HOW SOON ARE YOU MOVING?!

My lease ends October 1st, so I’ll most likely move the last week of September. I don’t have a firm date as of now, since I’m still finalizing plans.

WHAT ABOUT YOUR BLOG?!

I will still continue writing for my blog and sharing everyday life on Instagram. One of the reasons I named my blog Reinventing Rae, is because I wanted to share and document how we are constantly reinventing ourselves in life. Whether it be in our friendships, careers, relationships, or just our everyday personal lives. I hope to continue to share my life and expand content in new ways. I’ll still be sharing city life in Atlanta, in addition to beauty and lifestyle. Atlanta has grown so much over the past few years! And I’m excited to get to explore it all while sharing it with y’all. I also plan to create NEW content related to Entertaining and Home Decor, now that I’ll have a place of my own again. So needless to say, the blog isn’t going anywhere anytime soon!

WHAT ABOUT YOUR ROOMMATES YOU LIVE WITH NOW?!

Most of you know that I share an apartment with my best friend, Billy and his now husband Danny. They will continue to live in the city. W'e’ve had a great run all living together. I’ve known Will for over 15 years, and Danny for 7 years. We're more like family than friends. I’m definitely gonna miss them & having our family dinner nights along with all the laughs we’ve shared through the years.

WILL YOU BE BACK TO VISIT NYC?!

1000% YES!! I intend to visit as often as I possibly can. But obviously with current circumstances with Covid-19, I don’t know exactly when I’ll be back to the city. I’m hoping maybe sometime early next year or in the Spring. But for now, I definitely want to visit New York at least once a year.

Over the next month and a half, I’ll be sharing more of the moving process with y’all. I’ve actually already started packing. And next week, I’ll be traveling to Atlanta to look at apartments and finalize everything.

Although I’m sad to leave New York, I’m really excited for what’s to come. And I can’t wait to take y’all along for the journey.

XO, Dana Rae

13 GO-TO BRUNCH SPOTS IN NEW YORK CITY

New Yorkers live for a Brunch induced weekend, filled with shared plates and boozy cocktails. I've spent many of my weekends brunching in the city. In fact, it’s one of my favorite ways to try new restaurants around Manhattan. And I thought it was time to share some of my favorites. Especially since restaurant recommendations are one of the most frequently asked questions for visiting New York. And also one of the hardest decisions to make living here, because there are so many restaurants to choose from. So here is my curated list of Go-to Brunch spots in NYC.

NOTE: This list was created prior to COVID-19. However, many of the restaurants listed are OPEN for takeout, delivery and outdoor dining. Please click on the restaurant name to be directed to their website for more info.

BLUESTONE LANE

Location: Click here for locations

The Vibe: Bright, colorful, casual spot to grab coffee & quick bite. Offers outdoor seating.

What to Order: The Avocado Smash, Banana Bread, Iced Coffee (my fave)

JACK’S WIFE FREDA

Location: Click here for locations

The Vibe: Bistro with Mediterranean influenced menu.

What to order: Green Shakshuka, Mediterranean Breakfast, Cantaloupe Mimosa

JACOB’S PICKLES

Location: Upper West Side

The Vibe: Modern Rustic meets Southern Hospitality. Best seats are at the bar.

What to order: The Buffalo Mac n Cheese, Deviled Eggs & Fried Pickles, Any of the Biscuit Sandwiches

*Note: Portions are generous.

MAISON PICKLE

Location: Upper West Side

The Vibe: Modern casual with a bar that feels very 1920s.

What to order: Berries-n-Cream French Toast, Challah Croque Madam, 24 Layer Chocolate Cake

*Note: Sister restaurant to Jacob’s Pickles

GOOD ENOUGH TO EAT

Location: Upper West Side

The Vibe: Super casual country kitchen.  Offers outdoor seating.

What to order: Mexican scramble, Buttermilk Biscuits & Sausage Gravy, Pancakes (seasonal flavors)

FORAGERS TABLE

Location: Chelsea

The Vibe: Modern Farm to table. Also has a small fresh market connected to the restaurant.

What to order: Mixed Berry Scone, Ricotta Pancakes, Salmon Tartine, Cold brew

SHUKA

Location: SoHo

The Vibe: Mediterranean casual. Beautiful enclosed back garden room with seating available.

What to order: Cinnamon Rolls, Hummus, Chicken Shawarma, Bloody Mary

THE SMITH

Location: Click here for locations

The Vibe: Classic American Brasserie. Offers outdoor seating.

What to order: Vanilla Bean French Toast, The Smith Eggs Benedict, Spicy Salmon Tartare

TAVERN ON THE GREEN

Location: Upper West Side (inside Central Park, near Sheep’s Meadow)

The Vibe: Iconic New York City restaurant. Gorgeous glass enclosed seating area. Offers outdoor seating w/ views of Central Park.

What to order: Brioche French Toast, Baked Vegetable Frittata, Eggs Benedict Florentine

FRIEDMANS

Location: Click here for locations

The Vibe: Classic American eatery.

What to order: Chicken chilaquiles, Mac n’ cheese, Nova Benny

*99% of the menu can be prepared Gluten-free

COOKSHOP

Location: Chelsea (near The High Line)

The Vibe: American Farm to table. Offers outdoor seating.

What to order: Beignets, Frittata, Heuvos Ranchero, Strawbiscus Rickey Cocktail

BOQUERIA

Location: Click here for locations

The Vibe: Authentic Spanish style tapas bar.

What to order: Tortilla Española, Croquetas, Churros, Rosé Sangria or Spicy Shishito Margarita

CLINTON ST. BAKING COMPANY

Location: Lower East Side & Timeout Market in Brooklyn

The Vibe: Casual American restaurant & bakery.

What to order: Pancakes w/ warm maple butter (any flavor) *The best pancakes in the city!

*Note: Cash ONLY at Lower Eastside Location

SAVE this list for the next time you and your friends can’t decide on where to go for Brunch. Or for the next time you’re visiting the city and need some good brunch spots to impress your friends.

PRO TIP: Always make a reservation. NYC restaurants fill up fast especially on the weekends.

Which are your favorite Brunch spots in the city?! Share in the comments below.

XO, Dana Rae

DEAR NEW YORK, I MISS YOU

New York feels like a rush of all of your senses at once. It’s can be overwhelming and invigorating at the same damn time. If you’ve ever been to New York or lived here, then you know exactly what I’m talking about. Most of the reasons I love living in the city are the exact reasons many people despise it. And I’ve come to accept that. I always tell people, New York isn’t for everyone and that’s OKAY. But for those of us who call New York home, it’s everything we LOVE and CRAVE.

Living in New York City during the Covid-19 pandemic has been something that I never could have imagined. And watching the city shutter has been heartbreaking, yet eye opening. A city like New York doesn’t often get shaken, but this pandemic has certainly taken it’s toll. I know the past few months have been difficult for all of us, no matter where you live. But life as we know it in New York may never be the same. And that’s a hard reality to face if you live here.

I’ve been trying to put my thoughts and feelings into words in order to best describe the past few months. And to explain why it’s so different in New York vs other cities. There is no doubt, that the whole country has been affected by this pandemic. But I think most New Yorkers would agree, that it feels a bit heavier here.

I’ve witnessed and heard of so many people deciding to leave the city after experiencing this pandemic. And I definitely understand why. Many New Yorkers don’t have the small luxuries that others do. We depend on laundromats, corner stores, public transportation and being able to roam free throughout the city 24/7. We often don’t have the space to give ourselves, much less a stranger to be 6 ft. away. Living here consists of constant contact with others whether it be on the Subway, a crowded street, a busy Starbucks, a Broadway theater, a favorite watering hole or simply standing online.

Our playground IS Manhattan. So when it’s unaccessible, it makes life a little harder. New Yorkers are so used to having the city at their disposal. And now we’ve had to shelter in place inside our small apartments for months. Which many of us live with roommates. And our only outdoor space consists of a fire escape or makeshift rooftop.

I myself, have questioned if I want to stay or leave. It’s hard to imagine what life in the city will look like moving forward. Especially since we’ve barely begun reopening the city, as of now. But I also know that this city is as resilient as they come. And with time, New York will once again be filled with crowded streets, honking horns, people rushing around and that electric energy we all love so much.

When I look back, I want to remember:

Happy hours on our rooftop

Cheering for the frontline workers at 7pm

Baking with my best friend

Finding joy in cooking again

Sharing daily meals w/ my roommates

Slow mornings & fresh coffee

Rooftop Workouts

Dance parties in our living room

Late night runs to the Bodega for ice cream

FaceTime calls with long distance friends

Afternoons spent at the park

Zoom Happy Hours

…and all the other little things that made this difficult time a little more bearable.

I’m sure that this experience will always stand out over the years in my lifetime. And I want to always remember the good with the bad. Maybe this time will serve as a bigger purpose for us all. A time where we reflected more, had more time to do the things we loved, connected more with friends and family and allowed ourselves to slow down a bit.

What do you want to remember from this time? How have the past few months changed your outlook on life?

XO, Dana Rae

YEAR 5 OF LIVING IN NEW YORK CITY

This month marks my FIVE year anniversary of living in New York City. On October 9th, 2014, I was sitting in a packed SUV of my belongings en route to New York to begin a new chapter. As my best friend, my Mom and I drove those very long 16 hours, I remember having so many emotions. At 3am October 10th, 2014, I crossed over the George Washington Bridge in Manhattan and I knew then, everything was about to change.

Honestly, when I moved here, I only set out to live here for a year. And then without hesitation each year turned into the next. The fact that I actually get to call this city (home), is still very surreal to me. New York is one of those cities that will change you from the moment you arrive. For me, it’s been by far the best decision I’ve ever made. I can honestly say that I have never had a moment of regret being here. I know New York City isn’t for everyone and I respect that. But for many of us, we feel most alive here. And even in New York’s chaos, there is so much beauty within.

In celebration of my 5 year anniversary, I enlisted the help of my friend and photographer Lauren Lucile and did the most EXTRA photoshoot in the middle of Central Park. My vision was really just to portray the love affair that I have with New York City.

Photography by Lauren Lucile Creative

A few thoughts on living in New York City:

• You will constantly find yourself evolving here. Change is inevitable in the city, so you just learn to adapt as you go.

• You eventually learn to live with less, especially living in a smaller space. I honestly don’t miss most of my stuff. In fact, 75% of everything I own is still in storage in Atlanta.

• Friendships can be hard here. It took me awhile to have a solid group of core people I see regularly. Everyone is always busy, not to mention all going in different directions.

• Speaking of friends, I definitely miss my closest girlfriends back in Atlanta! But luckily, our friendships have all stood the test of time and distance. In most cases, it actually has brought us closer together.

• Everyone will want to visit you in NYC. I remember the first three years being non-stop with friends and family in town. But I loved every minute of it. There is something so special about seeing New York City through someone elses eyes for the first time.

• Walking around the city and looking up at the skyline and bright lights still gives me all the feels. The energy here is something you have to experience for yourself in order to truly appreciate the magic of it.

• I miss having a dishwasher & washer and dryer in my apartment. But honestly, you just learn to live without those luxuries. I’ve gotten really good at doing laundry often to keep the piles small and I usually wash dishes as I cook to lessen the aftermath.

• YES! The city is ridiculously expensive. I mean, cocktails will set you back $14-$18 at most places. But it’s a small price to pay to have some of the best restaurants and entertainment all at your disposal.

• Living with roommates is the norm here. Even in your 30’s. Unless you can afford to dish out $2,000-$3,000 in rent alone. Luckily I have the luxury of living with two of my best friends, so it feels more like family.

• Although New York is home to millions of people, it can sometimes feel incredibly lonely. It’s important to remind yourself that you’re not alone and everyone has tough days here.

• I feel like I’ve learned to enjoy my own company more and do things SOLO that I wouldn’t have necessarily done before living here. Some of my best memories over the years, have been times that I’ve explored the city on my own. Nobody even thinks twice about someone sitting at a bar, coffee shop or park alone. It’s actually kinda nice to be alone sometimes and take in the city.

• You will forever be asked by people: “WHY DO YOU LIVE IN NEW YORK?!” And my reply: “Because New York City is the first place I’ve ever lived that has made me feel more like me than ever before. Also, I always look forward to returning no matter how often I leave.”

Honestly, I don’t know if New York will be my forever home, but I know that it feels like home for now. And I can’t wait to see what this next year has in store for me. Cheers to another year in the BIG APPLE!

YOU MAY ALSO LIKE:

I ❤️ NY: YEAR 1 OF LIVING IN NEW YORK CITY

YEAR 2 OF LIVING IN NEW YORK CITY

YEAR 4 OF LIVING IN NEW YORK CITY

20 THINGS NOBODY TELLS YOU ABOUT LIVING IN NEW YORK CITY

XO, RAE

FALL BUCKET LIST 2019

Happy first day of FALL y’all! I love this season so much especially living in New York. The city takes on a new mood and every where you look, you can see Autumn coming to life. I love the crisp cool mornings and seeing the leaves change over time in Central Park. It’s a reminder to sow down and enjoy what the season has to offer. And I will most definitely be partaking in all things pumpkin spice until further notice. Today, I’m sharing my annual Fall Bucket List.

You can check out my previous bucket lists throughout the years: 2018, 2017, 2016 and 2015.

Fall Bucket List 2019

• Spend a day baking with my best friend.

• Go apple picking at an orchard in upstate New York. And bring home some apple cider donuts.

• Take an early morning walk through Central Park to see the leaves change color.

• Try a new restaurant in the city that has a seasonal menu for Fall.

• Go to a Fall Festival in the city.

• Spend a cozy day at home watching movies.

• Pick out some new Fall scented candles at Homegoods.

• Go to Trader Joe’s and stock up on their seasonal items. All. things. Pumpkin.

• See the new Broadway Show Moulin Rouge!

• Walk around the Upper West Side and scope out all the stoops decorated for Halloween.

• Host Friendsgiving with friends. An annual tradition of my roommates and I.

• Visit Dominique Ansel Bakery in SoHo & try the cronut flavor of the month.

• Celebrate my 5 year Anniversary of living in New York City. I’m thinking dinner & drinks at a fancy spot is in order. Here are my previous blog posts recapping previous years in the city: YEAR 1, YEAR 2, and YEAR 4

What’s on your Fall bucket list this year?!

YOU MIGHT ALSO LIKE:

5 THINGS TO DO IN NYC THIS FALL

XO, Rae

FEATURE FRIDAY 8.23.19

Photography by Victoria Saperstein (2018)

Happy Friday from gloomy + rainy NYC. I can’t believe Summer is coming to an end. I can honestly say, this has been one of the best Summers I’ve had in awhile. And I’m kinda sad to see it end. But I’m thankful for the new friends I met, adventures had and memories made over the past few months. What was the best part of your Summer?!

Here’s this week’s roundup of Beauty faves + Lifestyle articles + Things I’m loving lately, Events happening around the city and MORE.

LIFESTYLE + POP CULTURE

• RHONY Bethenny Frankel has decided NOT to return to the show next season. Here is what she had to say about her departure from the franchise.

• Supermodel Ashley Graham recently revealed that she’s pregnant in the most adorable announcement.

• Save this list for your next trip to Trader Joe’s.

WHAT I’M LOVING LATELY

• Recently started re-reading this book and definitely recommend it if you’re in the need of some motivation.

• Sephora SALE is happening again. I’ll be stocking up on eye cream, my favorite CC cream and this lip mask that I’ve heard is amazing.

• I’ve been looking for a collapsible water bottle to take with me on the go and I found this one on Amazon. It’s the perfect size and comes in a few different colors.

HAPPENING IN THE CITY

• Celebrate Summer Friday’s at Kendra Scott in SoHo every Friday in August from 12-2pm. Get 15% OFF your purchase and SIP Champagne and Rosé while shopping.

• Blues BBQ Festival at Hudson River Park Saturday Aug. 24th 2-9pm Eat BBQ from local NYC vendors while enjoying LIVE music.

• Drink brews from the Brooklyn Craft Brew Fest at Brooklyn Navy Yard. Saturday Aug. 24th Grab tickets here.

• Visit the popular bakery Dominique Ansel to try the August Cronut before it’s gone. This month’s cronut has Salted pretzel ganache w/ caramel ganache inside and a salted sugar mixture on the outside. YUM!

IN CASE YOU MISSED IT:

• 15 FREE THINGS TO DO IN NYC

• 20 THINGS NOBODY TELLS YOU ABOUT LIVING IN NYC

• 10 Classic Spots For Drinking Outdoors in NYC

• A DAY TRIP TO WÖLFFER WINERY

XO, Rae

15 FREE THINGS TO DO IN NYC

Photography by: Lauren Lucile Creative

If you’ve ever visited New York City or lived here, chances are you’ve experienced just how expensive the city can be. Although New York City gets a bad rap for being costly, I think it’s important to note that here are in fact a ton of FREE things to do! I often remind friends/family that a trip to the Big Apple, doesn’t have to break the bank. So I decided to do a round up of my favorite things to do in the city that don’t cost a thing. And wether you live here or plan to visit one day, this list will help you save some money while enjoying all that the city has to offer.

1. Staten Island Ferry - Hop on for a quick roundtrip across the Hudson River to see Lady Liberty. Make sure to grab a beer at the concession stand to take with you for the ride.

2. Yoga class in Bryant Park (May-Aug)- No better way to de stress than Yoga with a view.

3. Washington Square Park - Located in Greenwich Village, the perfect place to sit and people watch. Don’t forget to capture a photo in front of the infamous Square Arch and Fountain.

4. Brooklyn Botanic Garden - FREE admission every Friday before Noon (March-November) and Winter Weekdays (December-February)

5. Brooklyn Bridge - Some of the best views of the city can be seen walking across the bridge. Best times to go are early in the morning or at sunset.

6. Dumbo, Brooklyn - You can easily spend a day exploring Dumbo, seeing the sights and capturing photos with amazing waterfront skyline views.

7. The Plaza Hotel- This ICONIC hotel is a must to see in person. You can typically walk through the ground level and take in the beauty that is, The Plaza. The flower arrangements located right inside the entrance are worth the trip alone (they change per season).

8. Central Park - Stroll through the park on your own or book a FREE guided tour of the park. Make sure to stop by these famed spots. (Bethesda Fountain, The Mall, Gapstow Bridge, Wollman Rink, The Pond, The Bow Bridge and Strawberry Fields just to name a few).

9. New York Public Library - Located in the heart of Midtown, this historic landmark is a must see. Make sure to stop by the newly renovated Rose Reading Room.

10. Grand Central Station - Explore the hustle and bustle of this NYC transportation hub. You’ll likely recognize many spots inside from scenes of movies. And don’t forget to find the Whisper Gallery.

11. Movie Nights Under the Stars - During Summer months, you can pack a picnic and see a movie from several parks and rooftops in the city.

12. Museums - Lots of museums in the city are FREE all year long. And several have specific days/times that offer FREE admission.

13. The Highline - An old railroad track turned elevated park which runs from Hudson Yards to Chelsea. Wake along the park, take in the city views and enjoy the landscape and outdoor art installations.

14. Explore a New Neighborhood - The best way to see the city is simply to walk the streets and take in the sites. You never know what hidden gems you might discover or the people you may meet along the way.

15. 9/11 Memorial - Open to the public daily from 7:30am-9pm. Visit ground zero, view the memorial fountains and see the Survivor Tree.

What are your favorite cost friendly things to do in NYC?! Any other places or attractions I should add to the list?

XO, Rae

15 THINGS TO DO IN NEW YORK CITY IN SPRING

Hello April! Who else is excited for warmer weather months?! Spring in New York City is pretty euphoric. New Yorkers slowly start to come out of hibernation from Winter once we get that first glimpse of warmer weather. Think days spent at Central Park, bike rides, rooftops, dining on patios and more. And just like any season, there is always a ton of things to do around the city. I’ve rounded up the best ‘15 Things to do This Spring in NYC’. So whether you live here or you’re planning to visit in the coming months, I hope you find this list helpful!

1. Macy’s Flower Show - FREE and open to the public from March 24th-April 7th

2. Stroll through Central Park - The park comes to life during Spring months and there’s nothing better than seeing the blooms up close in person. You can even take a walking tour to see the Cherry Blossoms.

3. Hudson Yards - This newly developed area recently opened to the public. High end shops, restaurants, public garden and a NEW landmark called the Vessel. You can climb all 154 flights of stairs to see unique city views from each landing. It’s FREE to access, however you do have to reserve tickets to enter the Vessel.

4. Cherry Blossom Festival - April 27th-28th at the Brooklyn Botanic Gardens. This event is known to sell out, make sure to reserve tickets ASAP.

5. Bryant Park - Stroll the park, grab coffee and find a seat amongst all the tulips in bloom.

6. Yankees Game - Spring baseball season is underway. Go Uptown to the Bronx to see the Yankees in action.

7. Dine from a rooftop - Eataly in Flatiron has a new Spring inspired rooftop garden including a new seasonal menu and cocktails.

8. Drink from a rooftop - Rooftop Season is one of the best perks of living in the city. Grab a cocktail with a view at one of these popular spots: Refinery, 230 Fifth, The Roof, Cantina & PHD Terrace

9. Smorgasbug - The infamous outdoor food market is expanding into the Financial District this Spring. It opens to the public on April 12th and every Friday thereafter through October. Hours: 11:30am-7pm

10. Brooklyn Bridge - Walking the Brooklyn Bridge is a MUST during warmer months. Best way to see the Manhattan skyline. And makes for the perfect Instagram photo.

11. Food Truck Fest - Saturday April 13th. Located at Grand Bazaar Market on the Upper Westside. There will be 15 gourmet food truck vendors along with other local vendors.

12. Frida Kahlo Exhibit - A new exhibit located at the Brooklyn Museum. It’s the largest US exhibit of her personal items, clothing and art. Definitely recommend purchasing tickets in advance, several dates are SOLD OUT already. Exhibit runs through May 12th.

13. Dine al fresco - Many restaurants in the city open their cafe for dining outside in April/May. A few of my favorite spots include The Mermaid Inn, Cookshop, Boat Basin Cafe and Tavern on the Green.

14. NY Beer Fest - The 2nd annual Beer fest will be located at Citi Field in Queens and feature dozens of craft breweries.

15. Explore a new neighborhood. There’s nothing better than walking amongst the tree lined streets of the city and seeing the Spring blooms everywhere.
    
    

Central Park UWS

Macy's Flower Show 2019

Bryant Park

Battery Park

What are you looking forward to doing this Spring? Comment below.

XO, Rae

SUMMER IN THE CITY: NYC EVENTS NOT TO BE MISSED

Summer is underway and with July half way over, I'm reminded of all the things I still have left to do on my Summer bucket list. One of the things I love about living in a big city like New York, is that there is always so much to do. And whether you live here or planning to visit this Summer, there is something for everyone. Here's a list of events that are NOT to be missed. 

1. Bryant Park Summer Film Festival 

Every Monday June 18th-Aug. 20th

2. Restaurant Week

July 23rd-Aug. 17th 

3. Summer Music Festivals 

Concerts happening all over the city and in each borough. 

4. Rooftop Cinema Club

August dates are NOW on SALE, but hurry this weekly event sells out quickly!

5. FREE Yoga at Bryant Park

Bryant Park hosts free yoga in the park every Tuesday morning at 10am & Thursday evenings at 6pm. RSVP by clicking the link above. 

6. Rosé Mansion

This interactive and educational pop-up will be available July- October. Get tickets by clicking the link above. 

7. Bubbles, Beats & Brunch Cruise 

This is basically a day party aboard a boat that cruises around Manhattan. Brunch served with unlimited mimosas and Bloody Mary bar. Grab your friends & book a date!

8. FREE Fridays at MoMA

Free admission to MoMA every Friday 4-8pm

9. Pier 17 

Newly re-opened Pier 17 has everything from outdoor concerts, a food market hall and a pop-up bar with waterfront views. 

10. Summer Streets 

An outdoor block party, free from vehicles that takes place the first three Saturday's in August.  

Feel free to share this list with friends visiting NYC this Summer or save it to your phone as a reminder of things to do around city. 

Xo, Rae