Hi I’m Marla. That’s a picture of me. I just moved to the city this year from New Jersey. I have been trying to find all of hot spots in NYC and now I am going to share some of my discoveries with you! I live right off of 5th avenue in downtown Manhattan, and I tried to keep my “places to visit” within walking distance. In fact, most of the listings are things I see on a day to day basis. If you visit all of these places you will truly get to experience what my neighborhood is all about. While my favorite places are parks, there is nothing like observing the people of NYC on the streets of NYC. The city has gorgeous views, and I wanted to share with you one of my favorites. I hope you enjoy your time in NYC!

The great thing about living where I do is that I am so close to both Madison Square Park and Union Square Park. Aside from just sitting in each park and enjoying nature, there are plenty of things to see and buy. Below are some vendors I saw at both parks. There is a large variety of items sold, from puppets and masks, to beautiful rings and necklaces. Even if you don’t plan on buying much, there are beautiful things to see.

In addition to the wonderful fairs at each park there is a special light exhibit going on at Madison Square Park until Mid February that I highly recommend. Below is a clip of the light piece. Can you spot the people walking by?

While in Madison Square Park check out the Shake Shack! It is known to have the best burgers and shakes. You can get a bite to eat and enjoy a relaxing meal in the park!
Be warned you might have a nice sized line to wait on, but its worth it!

A Special event!
If its Fashion Week at Lincoln Center, you must check out Betsey Johnson’s show! Her designs, as well as shows, are always fun and edgy at the same time. Below is a slide show of pictures from her 2010 Fall Line- “Tour de Betsey”. This show has an amazing color palette, with rich pinks and yellows. It was like a party down the runway! You might even get to meet a few celebrities. Betsey herself even came down the runway on a bicycle and even showed off some of her gymnastics and did a few cartwheels down the runway.

The Limelight Marketplace is located on 23 St and 6th avenue (right across from Trader Joe’s.) Here you will find a unique assortment of very diverse shops. Cupcakes, jewelry, art, clothing, you name it, its there! Though the architecture of the building looks dark and a bit old, you will find that the inside is sparkling and full of color! But be warned that a shopping spree here will put quite the dent in your wallet.

http://www.shoplimelightmarketplace.com/index.html

Is Shwarma calling your name? Craving some Fallafel? How about combine the two in a delicious Shwafel? ChickPea is the perfect place to get it! ChickPea prides itself on baking and never frying their food. So for a (slightly) healthier and Kosher option check them out!

http://www.getchickpea.com/

This joint cupcake cafe and children’s bookstore is a great place to relax, and is appropriate for all ages. You can enjoy some coffee and a cupcake while your children peruse the wide selection of exciting children’s books. Be warned, you will have to share that delicious cupcake with your children. 🙂 While you are there notice the adorable decorations and wonderful window displays.

http://www.cupcakecafe-nyc.com/

(212) 465-1530

Nearest Transit:

23rd St-Broadway (R, W)

14th St-6th Aves (F, V, L, 1, 2, 3)

Union Square (4, 5, 6, L, N, Q, R, W)

Hours:

Mon-Sat 8 am – 8 pm

Sun 9 am – 7 pm