Travel is back in a big way and what better place to celebrate our new era of freedom than in the city of all cities. It could take you months to explore New York City from top to bottom, but sometimes all you have is a single weekend. If you plan it right, you could see and do just about everything on your list if you’re willing to venture off the beaten path.
Here’s how to spend 48 hours in New York City in 2022 to get the most out of every moment.
Where to go
When it comes to attractions worth visiting in New York City, the limit does not exist. There’s something to see or do on practically every block. But, with just 48 precious hours to spend, it’s important to make every second count. Ideally, that means not getting stuck in a tourist traffic jam.
You may not know that Manhattan has an entire network of secret streets scattered all throughout the city, each with its own distinct history and landmarks.
If you’re a spontaneous traveller who’s curious at heart, you’ll love exploring Grove Street, Gay Street and Washington Mews in Greenwich Village, and Stone Street in Hanover Square.
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When in NYC, one must always see a Broadway show. Coming to the stage in 2022 is the revival of The Music Man and Plaza Suite, and the world premiere of The Kite Runner this summer.
Those interested in doing Broadway on a budget can also apply for rush lottery tickets either in person or online — if you’re picked, you can get a standing-room spot for just $30 a ticket.
Some notable exhibitions to look out for this year include Virgil Abloh: “Figures of Speech” at the Brooklyn Museum, Jean-Michel Basquiat: King Pleasure at the Starrett-Lehigh Building, and An Anthology of Fashion at the Met Museum — and be sure to soak up the views at The Met Roof Garden Bar while you’re there!
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Where to stay
Situated in Manhattan’s cobblestone enclave, The Meatpacking District, is The Gansevoort hotel. After undergoing a top-to-bottom makeover, The Gansevoort is more than a dreamy place to rest your head at night — it’s a destination of its own.
With a Europe-inspired coffee and cocktail bar, a sky-high lounge, a rooftop pool, and an art collection to make you swoon, this hotel is worth adding to your itinerary. Plus, if you like to start your day with a workout, every room is outfitted with a Lululemon MIRROR home gym.
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Most importantly, though, The Gansevoort is ideal in terms of location. It’s steps from The High Line, Whitney Museum, Chelsea Market, and Little Island. Not to mention its close proximity to Carrie Bradshaw’s brownstone and the L Train, which takes you right to Williamsburg in 15 minutes.
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Where to eat
Foodies are spoiled for choice in NYC, but the best way to narrow down your options is by planning your visit around NYC Restaurant Week. Celebrating its 30th year running this July, restaurants in all five boroughs will be offering deals for four weeks straight, from local mainstays to fine dining.
For newcomers to the restaurant scene, you can get a preview of the dining destinations to come in 2022 right here. As for patios, you’ll appreciate the vacation-ready vibe of The HiHi Room in Brooklyn and the curtained outdoor cabins at Midtown’s Quality Meats.
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For cocktails, you could do happy hour with a side of history by hitting up some of the city’s oldest Prohibition-era speakeasies, like The Back Room, Fig. 19, and Attaboy. Other popular bars like Bathtub Gin and Employees Only are just a short walk from The Gansevoort.
Where to shop
One of the best ways to explore Manhattan is through its shops. Instead of hitting SoHo, vintage shopping is a great way to get off the beaten path and hunt for treasures you won’t find anywhere else.
Chickee’s Vintage and Awoke Vintage in Brooklyn, L Train Vintage, Beacon’s Closet, and Lara Koleji are some of the more popular vintage haunts. You can also do some serious thrifting in and around the East Village at shops like East Village Thrift Shop, Mr. Throwback, and Procell.
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Artists and Fleas marketplace is absolutely worth a visit and there are two locations, one in Williamsburg and one in Chelsea. And of course, you can’t do Chelsea without spending an afternoon (or a full day) at Chelsea Market.
If high-end fashion is more your style, you’ll have to pay a visit to Dover Street Market NY (DSMNY) for the atmosphere, the wide selection of designer vendors, and the gourmet cafe.
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Now that you’ve got your itinerary sorted, you can check the U.S. travel requirements to make sure you have everything you need, pick your travel buddy, and pack your bags!
The author was partially hosted by Gansevoort Meatpacking NYC.
Lilly Paltsev
Regional Editor, Toronto – Lilly is an editor with over five years of experience in local news and digital publishing. Having lived in Toronto her whole life, she’s always aware of what’s new in the city. She’s everyone’s go-to resource for the best things to do. Her mission is to make Curiocity’s readers feel excited about where they live and to infuse the world with positive vibrations.
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