‘The city that never sleeps’ has endless options when it comes to shopping; be it eclectic, to bohemian, to street-smart. UStravelia brings you the coolest places to shop when you’re in the coolest city in the world.
I want to wake up in that city
That doesn’t sleep
And find I’m king of the hill
Top of the heap
―Frank Sinatra, “New York, New York”
Sinatra’s mellifluous voice rings true as he croons this memorable song, which celebrates the wonder that is New York City. As the financial, commercial, and fashion hub of the world, the Big Apple has a lot going for itself. No wonder then, that people from around the world come here to eat, live, shop, and p-a-r-t-y.
To be listing all of New York’s shopping destinations would probably take us a lifetime and a half; and we’d still be spending the rest lamenting over the ones we had to leave out. We’ll try to do the best we can, of course, but this is New York! The city that pretty much defines the word ‘cool’.
We begin with an ode to New York’s most iconic stores. These places are quintessentially ‘New York’, and it wouldn’t be too wrong to address them as shrines for shopaholics.
Iconic Shopping Destinations in New York City
Apple Store
767 Fifth Avenue
New York, NY 10153
An iconic American brand, Apple’s flagship store embodies the spirit of the city that never sleeps. It is open 24/7, all year round. And Apple fanatics don’t just come here to shop, mind you. They interact with the creators of these wonder products, attend seminars, and meet with an Apple Genius at the Genius Bar.
Bloomingdale’s
1000 Third Avenue
New York, NY 10022
Ah! The lure of the Big Brown Bag even brought Queen Elizabeth II here at Bloomingdale’s, who was reportedly left quite impressed by what she saw. Bloomingdale’s is quite the celebrity haunt even today, with top-notch designers retailing their latest collections here.
Macy’s
151 West 34th Street Herald Square
New York, NY 10001-2101
Macy’s is the Great American Department Store, and prides itself to be the world’s largest retailer of fashion goods. There is nothing you can’t get here, at Macy’s. Their window displays during the holiday season are a sight to behold.
Barneys New York
660 Madison Avenue
Manhattan, NY 10065
Barneys has always been synonymous with luxury, and is a New York landmark. This is the store that holds the quaint distinction of introducing Giorgio Armani to America, with the upper crest coming here to ‘suit up’.
Tiffany & Co.
Fifth Avenue and 57th Street
New York, NY 10022
Tiffany & Co. has been a part of New York’s history, ever since it opened its doors in 1940. Their beautiful jewels have adorned several famous names, and their signature engagement rings have been passed on as heirlooms.
Saks Fifth Avenue
611 5th Avenue
New York, NY 10022
The name, in this store’s case, does say it all. New York’s Fifth Avenue is an upscale shopper’s perfect idea of paradise, and Saks Fifth Avenue happens to be a crown jewel. Visit their flagship store to find the best of everything.
New York’s Famous Shopping Districts
Upper East Side
To borrow a line from the drama series, Gossip Girl, “On the Upper East Side, the possibilities are endless”. Nothing rings truer for this cool shopping district. A regular haunt for New York’s uber fashionable lot, New York’s Upper East Side is home to everything luxe. Cartier, Christian Louboutin, Lanvin, Roger Vivier, Hermès… you just have to dream up luxury, and it’ll manifest right here on Madison Avenue.
Chelsea
There’s a lot more to Chelsea than what is apparent from the surface. Dig a little deeper, and you’ll find some fabulous antique stores (The Antiques Garage deserves a mention), delightful little boutiques, and the not-to-be-missed Chelsea Market. Come to Chelsea to eat, shop, drink, and party.
SoHo
New York’s artsy neighborhood certainly presents a contrast to those who visit it. It houses quirky fashion stores like rag & bone, to the more down-to-earth Zara and Topshop, to high fliers like Chanel and Prada. The MoMA Store which is a pint-sized copy of the famed museum is a must-see in SoHo.
Nolita
Not too long ago, Nolita was a quiet, unassuming neighborhood, home to Italian-American immigrants, its name being derived from North of Little Italy. In character, it isn’t too different from SoHo, so you’ll find a lot of upcoming names in fashion and décor as you walk down the streets, selling wares that are definitely overpriced for most commoners.
Williamsburg
Being a part of Brooklyn, Williamsburg has an edgier identity, which is why you’ll see a lot more creativity than opulence when you come here. Visit Brooklyn Flea, the seasonal market that sells local antiques to decorate your home. You’ll also find a lot of stores selling vintage fashion.
As you walk down Times Square or Midtown, you’ll finally accept that there is no end to New York’s extravagance. Soon enough, you’ll find yourself coming back to New York City, several times over.