New York City is brimming with charming indoor activities, perfect for a cozy day. Discover tranquil bookstores, where you can browse for hours. Wander through museums like The Met or the New York Botanical Garden’s indoor exhibits, surrounded by lush greenery. Stationery lovers will adore Goods for the Study or Designers Collab., offering curated spaces full of creative inspiration.
Happy Medium
Happy Medium Art Café, now open in Brooklyn’s Greenpoint neighborhood, offers a unique blend of artistic expression and community engagement. This innovative space invites visitors to explore creativity through various art forms, making it a must-visit for casual artists and anyone seeking an out-of-the-box experience.
Happy Medium redefines the concept of a café, replacing traditional food menus with a diverse selection of creative experiences—from painting and pottery to furniture-making workshops. Whether you're a seasoned artist or a beginner, the café’s welcoming atmosphere and focus on casual creativity make it an inspiring escape from the hustle of city life.
The spacious new Greenpoint location is designed for creativity to flourish, complete with an outdoor area for “artsy-fartsy” endeavors under the stars. It's a refreshing alternative to the typical bar scene, where you can meet friends, socialize, and create art in a relaxed setting.
With its mantra to be “brave enough to be terrible,” Happy Medium fosters a space where art is celebrated in all forms, encouraging people to explore creativity without pressure. Affordable prices and an extensive list of classes and activities make it accessible to all.
AIR MAIL
Nestled in the heart of the West Village, Air Mail’s newsstand at 546 Hudson Street offers a unique blend of old-world charm and modern sophistication, making it a must-visit spot for lovers of curated periodicals, books, and exceptional coffee.
Step into Air Mail's NYC newsstand and be transported to an era where print ruled supreme, yet with a contemporary twist. The shop, housed in a historic row home, beautifully blends a curated selection of international periodicals with a bespoke coffee bar, making it a sanctuary for those who appreciate both literature and a fine brew.
The newsstand is more than just a place to buy magazines; it’s a carefully curated cultural hub. From handpicked books to exclusive gifts, every item reflects the discerning taste that has made Air Mail a beloved name among global citizens. The space itself is designed to evoke the sophistication of mid-century New York, with original wooden floors and vintage mirrors adding to the ambiance.
At the heart of the newsstand is a coffee bar, serving up drinks in cups adorned with custom illustrations. This is not just any coffee—it's served with the same attention to detail that Air Mail brings to its journalism, making it the perfect spot to sip, read, and immerse yourself in the rich cultural offerings of this unique space.
Visiting Air Mail’s newsstand is not just about picking up a magazine—it's about engaging with a brand that has successfully bridged the gap between the digital and physical worlds, creating a space where culture, community, and quality intersect.
Dobbin Street Vintage Co-op
I love Dobbin Street because they always always have what you’re looking for. Clothes, large furniture pieces, small Knick knacks… everything!
High Valley Books Open by Appointment
Amazing collection of vintage & out-of-print books and magazines on art, fashion, architecture, design, photography, and more.
The ground floor and basement are full of treasures and so interesting to look through!
Gabriela Ceballos NY JEWELRY. SoHo
Archestratus Books + Foods
Archestratus Book + Foods is a charming haven in NYC that seamlessly blends the love of food and literature. This cozy bookstore and cafe specializes in cookbooks and culinary-themed reads, making it a treasure trove for foodies and bookworms alike. With its inviting ambiance and a delightful menu of seasonal bites, it’s the perfect spot to savor a good book while enjoying a delicious treat. Archestratus is more than a store—it’s a community hub for workshops, events, and a shared passion for gastronomy.
Studio Calmplex
Studio Calmplex, nestled in Midtown East, NYC, seamlessly blends ceramics artistry with a serene tearoom inspired by East Asian tea culture, offering visitors a unique retreat from the city's hustle.
At Studio Calmplex, guests can immerse themselves in hands-on ceramics classes, ranging from beginner-friendly workshops to in-depth multi-week courses in wheel throwing and hand building, all designed to inspire creativity in a relaxed environment.
Complementing the artistic experience, the tearoom at Studio Calmplex provides a tranquil space to savor carefully curated teas, celebrating the beauty of simple, intentional moments inspired by Korean and Japanese traditions.
Beyond classes and tea, Studio Calmplex fosters a sense of community by hosting private events and workshops, making it an ideal destination for those seeking to connect, create, and unwind in the heart of New York City.
The Center for Fiction
One of my favorite finds! It’s the only organization in the United States devoted solely to the vital art of fiction, aka they encourage people to read and value fiction. When I visited, they had many of the top books of the year and so many great new ones to discover. How can you not love this space and those hanging lights?
The Metropolitan Museum of Art
The Metropolitan Museum of Art transforms this spring with its "Sleeping Beauties: Reawakening Fashion" exhibition. Visitors are invited on a sensory journey through time, where approximately 250 garments and accessories from the museum's collection are reanimated using cutting-edge technology. From the aromatic histories of floral hats to the restrictive hobble skirt, experience fashion's ephemeral beauty and its cyclical dance with nature, all within the iconic walls of The Met.
Museum of the Moving Image
One of the most underrated museums in NYC (in my opinion). Have caught a few exhibits here in the past and it’s always a fun time. Great date spot for people who are into movies!
Goods For The Study
Whether you’re looking for notebooks like “The Anti-Anxiety Journal” or a Manifestation Journal, this store is the perfect fit for those who end up walking towards the self-help section. You can find calendars, notebooks, and to-do lists full of personality, they make productivity feel oh so effortless. Maybe you’re looking for a not-so-boring holiday card. Goods for the Study in NYC has you covered.
Goods for the Study in NYC is like stepping into a serene sanctuary for those who love the art of writing and design. I went to the one on West 8th St and it offers a curated collection of stationery, from handcrafted pens to luxurious leather journals. Inside, you’ll find beautifully arranged desks adorned with Japanese letter openers, European-designed desk lamps, and stacks of elegantly stitched notebooks. The space is airy and inviting, encouraging you to linger, explore, and discover the beauty in every item.
Cooper Hewitt, Smithsonian Design Museum
Spent the day at the Cooper Hewitt, and wow—design lovers, this is your spot! 🎨✨ The interactive exhibits are next-level (drawing your own patterns is SO fun!), and the historic mansion vibes? Totally stunning. Perfect mix of inspiration and creativity. Don’t skip the garden—such a chill spot to unwind! #DesignDreams #NYCMuseums
Yoseka Stationery
My go-to spot for fun and colourful washi tape, Yoseka offers a wide range of notebooks, pens, ink, highlighters, and many other Asian stationary supplies that are bound to encourage your creativity.
Mandarin Oriental, New York
Perched on the 35th floor of the Mandarin Oriental, New York, the MO Lounge offers an exquisite afternoon tea experience with panoramic views of Central Park and the Manhattan skyline. Guests are treated to a curated selection of seasonal sweets and savories, complemented by a variety of fine teas and the option of champagne, all within a setting that exudes sophistication and tranquility.
The afternoon tea service at MO Lounge is a harmonious blend of tradition and innovation. The ambiance is further enhanced by floor-to-ceiling windows, allowing patrons to indulge in their tea while gazing over the iconic Central Park, making it a quintessential New York experience. With attentive service and a menu that evolves seasonally, the Mandarin Oriental's afternoon tea stands as a testament to refined luxury in the heart of the city.
Ford Foundation Center for Social Justice
In the heart of Manhattan lies a hidden gem that is not only a testament to architectural brilliance and a commitment to social justice but also a welcoming space for all. The Ford Foundation Center for Social Justice Garden is a lush, indoor oasis that is open to the public, offering a serene escape from the urban hustle. Best of all, access to this verdant retreat is completely free, making it an inclusive spot for visitors to find solace, reflect, or simply enjoy the beauty of nearly 40 species of trees, vines, and shrubs.
Open Monday through Friday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., and on Saturdays during Ford Foundation Gallery exhibitions, the garden invites the public to immerse themselves in a tranquil environment, without the barrier of an entry fee
Rosecrans
A coffee and flower shop combo is such a great idea! Your one stop shop for a cup of coffee and a cute flower bouquet.
Korean Cultural Center New York
Nestled in Midtown Manhattan, the Korean Cultural Center New York (KCCNY) offers an immersive experience of Korea's rich cultural tapestry, seamlessly blending traditional heritage with contemporary arts. Located at 122 E 32nd St, New York, visitors can enjoy the popular Hangang Ramen. On the second floor, explore Ik-Joong Kang’s thought-provoking exhibition, inspired by his Korean-American upbringing. Don’t miss the Jeonnam Garden, crafted with traditional materials like red clay and a variety of stones. Its design draws inspiration from Aeyangdan, a region in Southern Korea known for its vibrant folk arts.
Beyond its physical offerings, KCCNY hosts a dynamic array of cultural events, including traditional music performances, film screenings, and educational workshops, fostering a vibrant space for cultural exchange and understanding.
QC NY SPA
Explore the newly built - Building 111, full of new amenities including a Butterfly Room, Lavender Room, Ice Room, and the Casa QC Bistro. Each room is designed to accommodate specific needs and relax your body & mind. Rest with perfect views of the nyc skyline!
From sensory saunas to a lavender room reminiscent of Provence, each area is crafted to soothe your senses. Indulge in the latest amenities, crafted for ultimate comfort. Experience the regenerating ice room and relaxation rooms with water beds, designed to rejuvenate your body and mind. From serene pools to state-of-the-art saunas, it’s all here. Enjoy year-round outdoor heated pools with breathtaking views of the Manhattan skyline, a signature feature of QC New York Spa.
SPENCER'S
Nestled in the heart of Manhattan's Soho neighborhood, Spencer's redefines the modern spa experience by offering luxurious wellness treatments at accessible prices. Spencer's interior, conceived by founder Ryan McCarthy in collaboration with designer Charlotte Taylor, exudes a harmonious blend of Japanese ryokan serenity and '90s Calvin Klein minimalism, creating a tranquil oasis amidst the city's hustle.
The spa's curated treatment menu, including the Signature Facial developed with renowned esthetician Gillian Milberg, utilizes advanced modalities such as enzymes, LED light therapy, and microcurrent to leave skin radiant and rejuvenated. Strategically located at 550 Broadway, Spencer's offers a convenient retreat for New Yorkers seeking a serene escape during their daily routines, embodying a perfect blend of luxury, design, and accessibility.
Academy Record Annex
My favorite record store of all time— specifically their Greenpoint location♥️