Three Perfect Days in New York City: The Insider’s Guide

If you want to get your buzz on, check out the revitalized Waldorf Astoria From its iconic clock to its lobby lounge, this hotel is a visual delight. It’s a part of Manhattan’s past, so you should soak it all in. Whether you are sipping a Martini at the two-story Brasserie, or staying in a Pierre-Yves Rochon suite with a view over Park Avenue, you will want to do that. The Hôtel de Ville is a great place to see another side of New York’s past. Hotel Chelsea. It may have been a long time ago, but the story of Patti Smith’s and Leonard Cohen’s era is still celebrated. The living museum is still infused with modern amenities, including an fabulous spa.

You can start the moment you enter Nine OrchardYou’ll feel more stylish. The venerable location (it is housed in the historic Jarmulowsky bank building from 1912), the chic interior design (the lobby features midcentury furniture and Gucci wallpaper) and the expansive views of the city are all to be credited. It also boasts the Swan Room, one of my favourite bars in town. The Swan Room is a dark and stylish place. Ritz-Carlton, Nomad is also designed to make an impression—and not just because of its 50-story sway. Dramatic interiors and excellent service set the mood inside. Must-try food and drink experiences include Spanish-Japanese fusion at The Bazaar by José Andrés and rooftop cocktails at Nubeluz, a jewel-toned bar with views for miles. Similarly impressive is the extravagantly designed Fifth Avenue Hotel It is a wonderful escape from the bustle of NoMad, which lives right outside its door. Designer Martin Brudnizki from Stockholm has infused it with a romantic fervor that is both entrancing and cocooning. The wood-paneled snug room is perfect for a nightcap. Portrait Bar—or order up a martini cart to your suite.

1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge is a good option if you’re looking for views over Brooklyn Bridge Park and coveted panoramas of Downtown Manhattan—it draws a loyal following of younger, sustainability-minded travelers who appreciate its green ethos. The plant-filled lobby can be filled with tourists and locals at any time, and the rooftop is buzzing all summer.

Day 1: Upper East Side

Breads bakery: Babka, and more!

Morning activity: Jog on the reservoir

Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir

Do as locals do and go for a run along the 1.58-mile loop around the Jackie O Reservoir—but pause at one of its many scenic overlooks for city views or glimpses of its resident herons and coots.

Lunch spot: Comfort food at Café Sabarsky

The Frick, afternoon activities: Get lost!

It’s inevitable that you will make time to visit institutions such as MoMA You can also read about the GuggenheimI’d like to recommend the recently reopened Frick Collection. Housed in a Gilded Age mansion on Fifth Avenue and 70th Street, it’s especially strong in Old Masters and European sculpture—and can be toured in just over an hour.

Dinner: French food at Chez FiFi

Chez FiFi, an elegant mahogany-paneled French restaurant tucked into a townhouse on 74th Street, is ideal for special occasions—and expense account-style splurges. You’ll need to reserve a seat early as there are only 40 chairs in the main room.