1. I took the one-hour train from Grand Central to Blue Hill at Stone Barns for their farm-to-table tasting menu. Make a day of it: browse the vintage shops in Tarrytown, grab a reservation, then wander the farm after dinner.

2. Both my partner and I can’t stop wearing these Gap Pants.

3. I finally made it to the Whitney Biennial using my Culture Pass. If it's been on your list, go before it closes on August 23.

4. For the past few months I've been on a mission to find the perfect nightgown to wear out in public. I found plenty I loved, saved, and ultimately didn't buy. If you're also chasing a slightly Wendy from Neverland aesthetic, my favorites here.

5. A friend of mine just launched a web series called Boika, following a lesbian creator finding herself in New York. The first two episodes are out now, with more on the way. Watch: here

6. Debated purchasing many things at Old Jewelry Store and then vintaged shopped my way through the rest of East Broadway mall in Chinatown.

7. Another friend hosted a cookout at the East River Park communal grills, and it may have been the perfect Sunday evening. Gather a group and do the same while the weather still cooperates.

8. Bought myself a pair of sunnies for Bonnie Clyde and have worn them everyday since.

9. Checked out Extreme Cashmere mostly for the vibe of there ever cool chartreuse store in SoHo.

10. Found a small studio space for a shoot that was chic, which made me realize I need the ‘Suspiral’ Iron + Glass Chair by Luigi Serafini. Rent by the hour or by day at Take Space.

11. Admired Amelia Cross’s tie, shirt, and trench coat canvases at Nino Mier Gallery in Tribeca. The exhibition goes through August 7.

12. Decided I shall find the perfect vintage lace panel curtain to frame my door. In the meantime please enjoy my Ebay and Etsy saves HERE that I decided against.

13. Found a perfect green and purple silk bag via .

14. My longtime best friend Maddie has finally launched a site for her handmade corsets that are both unreal flattering and reversible!! I love a two-for-one top. Shop them here (she makes each one by hand).

15. I also wandered through Renew Finds in Greenpoint, mentally furnishing a future apartment with their collection of vintage mid-century pieces.

16. I'm failing spectacularly at my summer reading list, but this month I did finish Heart the Lover and just started Sunburn. Wish me luck. xx

Date nights worth repeating

I went on many date nights with my partner and friends. Here are the highlights:

• Little Big → Baby Sipps made for the ideal friend catch-up. Order the Watermelon Basil Spritz at Little Big, then head to Baby Sipps for a chilled red and their melt.

• Oysters and Spritz's taste better on a boat, I reserved sunset at Grand Banks for the occasion.

• Becoming a favorite combo is Maison Premier for some bubbles + oysters followed by film photo-booth to memorialize the evening at Old friend around the corner.

• Tried out Taqueria Ramirez for the first time and now understand the hype.

• Got Teeny Tini’s at Bar Valentina.

• Natural wine at Heaven & Earth, where you can admire the vintage knickknacks and settle into their nostalgic patio chairs.

• Started at Bodega Nights for dinner + admired their interiors, followed by a glass of wine at Cherry on Top to cap the night with sunset on their perfect roof.

• Dinner at Falansai in Greenpoint—order the Smashed Cucumber Caesar, the Spicy Crab Curry, and the Tuna Crunch.

• Finally tried Lonnies, we ordered the burger (my partner confidently ranks it in NYC's top five), heirloom tomatoes, and the tagliatelle with sweet corn and sungolds. Pair it with the Bond St. Spritz and the White Noise (their white Negroni).

• Had one of my favorite ongoing double dates (coined double double) at Margot with + . Order the Burger and Pea pistou cavatelli. I’ll be back to have the burger + martini happy hour.

That’s all for now! All the spots are linked HERE in a Google Map if you feel like dabbling in August.

The thing about being solo in Brooklyn on a Sunday morning is that you can simply walk six miles from Clinton Hill to Cobble Hill and back with no plan, stopping wherever the day takes you.

This was my most recent Sunday, so I’m recapping it for you—with all the stores I popped into, plus a few suggestions for nibbles along the way.

We’re starting with coffee in Cobble Hill and walking east towards what you’ll soon realize is mostly one long block home to a top tier stretch of tasteful stores (with a variety of price ranges).

Let’s Begin:

Salter House

Cobble Hill is a neighborhood where I tend to walk at a snail’s pace so I can peek into the windows of gorgeous brownstones with bookshelves covering entire walls and drapes that I assume cost more than my rent.

Salter House is one part coffee shop and the other part home decor, clothing, and print shop. Its side room has also recently been converted into a gallery.

Grab a coffee or tea, walk around, and start your day in the calm, whimsical world of cottagecore sleeper dresses and vintage-inspired home decor.

An alternative stop for coffee, tea, and/or a very good croissant is nearby L’Appartement 4F.

Buffalo Exchange

Now we’re in Boerum Hill and are just a few minutes walk from stop one. You know her. The vintage section in the back may hold some gems, and it never hurts to pop in.

Six Bells

A few more minutes away, the stunning interiors and country-inspired home decor of Six Bells await. You may know the name from their new hotel Upstate, which has been sitting patiently on my hotel bucket list.

Our next few stops are back-to-back, making for a breezy pop in and out.

Horseman Antiques

For those in search of anything home furnishing related, Horseman boasts FIVE—yes five— floors to explore. They’ve been around for 60 years, selling vintage and antique mid-century pieces.

Sterling Place

Right next door, you'll find more home decor, gifts, vintage pieces, art, and furniture here.

Outline

To the right of Sterling Place is a boutique that’s pretty much the blueprint of everything I see the fashion gals of Substack sharing. In every corner, they’ve curated a beautiful selection of clothing, accessories, perfume, shoes, and more. They carry Flore Flore, The Row, Wales Bonner, Issey Miyake, and Thistles, to name a few. I discovered the UNDO Hairware here years ago and have been wearing my one beautiful claw clip since.

It’s not exactly budget-friendly (though that’s of course relative), but the store itself is stunning and a perfect place to window shop for ideas. Do not miss the beautiful antique sink in the back. Because yes, even chic clothing boutiques can have Good Sinks!

Consignment Brooklyn

A high-end resale shop with all things women’s clothing, accessories, and shoes. I once purchased a Prada wallet here for $50. Yea.

Assembly Line

A more curated space, shop their line of home renovation pieces, lighting, and furniture in person. This is another one of those spaces that’s a lovely source of design inspiration.

MIND YOU, WE’RE STILL ON THE SAME SIDE OF ONE BLOCK... and it keeps going.

East Fork Brooklyn

Come here for all your pottery needs. Cute cute cute.

OK WE’RE CROSSING THE STREET IF YOU’RE STILL WITH ME.

The Primary Essentials

One of my personal favorites for coffee table books, ceramics, and all your Tekla and Sabre needs, in a space that's peaceful and never too packed.

Hannoh +

This was the only spot that was new to me as of this particular Sunday. They have a gorgeous selection of knits, woven bags, and primary + neutral colored tees.

PORTA

The Last Stop on this list… if you’re not utterly shopped out, that is. PORTA is also one of my favorites. It’s a great place to buy gifts and home decor, but pop in just to see how they’ve decorated the space. It’s always creative and the staff is always warm.

Now that your blood sugar is probably dangerously low (and mind full of ideas and inspiration), grab a bite or a beverage at one of these spots:

• Lonnies

  • The same owners as the delicious Inga's Bar.

• Lele’s Roman

  • I went here for Restaurant Week last year and can recommend the pesto pasta, tiramisu, and the Negroni flight. Yes, I said flight.

    

• French Louie

  • Steak, fries, and oysters post-shopping, anyone? Plus, they have a quaint little backyard if it's not too hot!

• Grand Army

  • A fun menu of themed drinks that's always rotating. I typically pair my drink with their oysters and popcorn, but they have a full food menu as well.

    

Enjoy xx

Google Map Linked: HERE

Subscribe now

Last summer, I took what has become an annual long-distance friendship trip. So far, we’ve road-tripped through Moab, spent a month working remotely from Rome, celebrated my 30th birthday in New Mexico, and last year, we spent a week exploring Milos, Greece.

When choosing a Greek island, I had a few priorities. Chief among them: avoiding overwhelming crowds. I wasn’t looking for beach clubs or late nights. I wanted fresh seafood, long swims in the Aegean, lazy afternoons stretched out on the sand, and uninterrupted time to catch up.

Most of my trips tend to be packed with movement. I love bouncing from place to place, but this itinerary is decidedly slower. More beach days, longer meals, fewer plans.

We landed on Milos, and while it would’ve been easy to add another island or two, staying put felt right. There was something appealing about exploring one place thoroughly rather than worrying about ferry schedules, transit logistics, and constantly packing and unpacking.

Once we settled on our dates, we found an Airbnb that I would later notice appearing in the background of countless Instagram photos. While the space itself wasn’t huge, the location couldn’t have been better. Every morning we ate breakfast on our balcony, usually accompanied by the neighborhood cat. The apartment sat in one of the more popular areas of the island, so our afternoon balcony hangs occasionally came with tourists wandering below, admiring the view. Still, Milos never felt overwhelmingly crowded. If anything, we spent the entire trip feeling lucky that we’d managed to visit Greece in August without feeling swallowed by tourism.

The Airbnb was also conveniently located above a charming shop selling artisanal crafts and souvenirs, perfect for picking up gifts before heading home.

One thing I would absolutely recommend: rent a car. Milos isn’t particularly walkable, and taxis can be limited. Having a car made exploring beaches, villages, and restaurants incredibly easy. Most drives on the island were only about 15 to 20 minutes, making it simple to bounce around without ever feeling rushed.

I don’t have a long list of Greek islands to compare it to, but my week in Milos was everything I hoped it would be: beautiful, relaxed, and surprisingly uncrowded. The people were warm, the food was exceptional, and every day felt effortlessly easy. I’m usually someone who prefers discovering new places over revisiting old favorites, but Milos is one of the rare destinations I can already see myself returning to.

Eat

Some restaurant highlights are below, but honestly, you can’t go wrong. Eat an abundance of fresh fish, order every Greek salad that crosses your path, and start each morning with a freddo cappuccino.

Lunch & Dinner

Medusa
Probably the most recommended restaurant on Milos, and for good reason. Expect a wait at lunch or dinner, but put your name down, grab a drink, and explore the surrounding fishing village while you wait. The food is delicious, and the beaches nearby are perfect for a pre or post-meal swim. Down by the water you’ll find rows of fresh octopus hanging out to dry, which is a sight in itself.

O! Hamos! Tavern
A family-run taverna near the port with a beautiful outdoor courtyard. They don’t take reservations, so waits can be long, but we arrived for a late lunch and were seated right away. The handwritten menus, local dishes, and beach views make it feel quintessentially Greek.

Bakalikon Galanis
A local favorite serving excellent small plates in a beautiful setting.

Diporto
A cozy, authentic taverna tucked away on a quiet street in Plaka. Order the grilled sardines, fava purée, chickpeas, grilled feta, roasted eggplant, and lemon yogurt.

Astakas Café Restaurant
A classic white-tablecloth restaurant right on the waterfront. Come for dinner and stay for sunset.

Vlahos
A casual and affordable spot for excellent gyros.

Methismeni Politia

Glaronisia

Enalion Restaurant

Embourios Tavern

Breakfast

Café Palaios
I ended up here twice. Perched above the Plaka neighborhood, this café is known for its orange and watermelon pies, but everything we ordered was fantastic. Come for breakfast, pastries, coffee, or return later for ice cream and one of the best views on the island.

Kivotos ton Gefseon

Oasis Canteen

Green Juice Bar Café
One morning we were craving smoothies and açaí bowls, and this hit the spot.

Dessert

Aggeliki Ice Cream Shop
The perfect post-dinner treat.

Shop

Cava Pollonia
Part food market, part tobacco shop, part boat-supply store. Worth popping into while exploring Pollonia.

Pliatsiko
A lovely local artist shop in Klima filled with unique souvenirs and handmade pieces. Stop in while wandering the colorful waterfront.

Beaches

Sarakiniko
The beach that made Milos famous. Nicknamed “Moon Beach,” the landscape feels otherworldly, with bright white volcanic rock formations contrasting against the deep blue sea. Come for swimming, cliff jumping, or sunrise. It can get busy, but arriving early helps, and even midday we managed to find a quiet corner.

Papafragas Caves
A beautiful cove with crystal-clear water and plenty of opportunities for cliff jumping and swimming.

Paralia Paleochori
One of the island’s most beautiful beaches, known for its colorful cliffs and clear water.

Tourkothalassa Beach
A hidden gem reached via a short walk down a path. We visited on our last day and loved how peaceful it felt. It’s also close to Mandrakia, making it easy to pair with lunch and a stroll through the village.

Tsigrado Beach
Accessible by boat or by climbing down a wooden ladder and rope. I visited by boat, so I can’t personally speak to the climb, but the water is unbelievably clear and perfect for swimming around the surrounding rock formations.

Paralia Firiplaka
One of my favorite beaches on the island. Dramatic rock formations surround the beach, and we spent our first day here alternating between swimming, lounging in the sand, and people-watching.

Kleftiko
A must-do. Book a boat and spend the day snorkeling among the famous sea caves and rock formations. Check wind conditions before booking, as they can affect access.

Firopotamos Beach
Another picturesque fishing village with a beautiful beach. Don’t miss the church and iconic archway for photos.

See & Do

Mandrakia
A charming fishing village filled with colorful boat garages and waterfront views. It’s also home to Medusa, making it the perfect place to wander while waiting for your table.

Rent a Boat
One of the highlights of our trip. Seeing Milos from the water is completely different from seeing it by car. We rented a small boat with a captain for a half-day excursion and paid less than $300 total for two people. I wouldn’t book too far in advance. Check wind conditions first so you can choose the best day (Aegean Rent a Boat)

Kostantakis Winery
A gorgeous winery built into a cave. Stop by for a tasting if you’re visiting between May and October.

Klima
A quaint fishing village lined with colorful syrmata houses. Visit at sunrise or sunset when the crowds thin out and the light is at its best.

Sunset at the Church of Panagia
One of the best sunset spots on the island. Grab a glass of wine or an Aperol spritz from one of the nearby bars and watch the sun disappear.

Bars

Akri Bar
Cocktails, great views, and a fun atmosphere.

My Beach Bar, Firopotamos

Utopia Café
One of the more popular sunset spots on the island. Arrive early if you want a good seat, the views are hard to beat.

Loco Beach Bar, Fyriplaka

Mikro Café Bar

Useful Links

Milos Cars
We rented our car here and had a fantastic experience. They dropped the car off directly at the airport, were incredibly easy to communicate with, and even connected us with our boat rental. The website isn’t the fanciest, but the service was excellent and family-run.

Aegean Rent a Boat

Google Maps: HERE

I grew up writing summer bucket lists well into high school on random pages in composition notebooks and, more recently, after a few drinks with friends in the Notes app.

After this last winter, I promised myself I’d never complain about the heat and would spend as much time outside as humanly possible. Spirits are high after the Knicks win, and we’ll be riding that joy straight through Labor Day.

If you’re looking to bop around the city as much as I plan to, here are a few recommendations in true List Service fashion. Consider this our shared summer bucket list. It’ll all go by in a blink, so get outside and enjoy my favorite city in the world.

Mermaid Parade

June 20

Hop on the subway to Coney Island for one of the largest art parades in the country, complete with elaborate floats, handmade costumes, and, of course, plenty of mermaids.

Pride Month Celebrations

Whether you’re queer or an ally, there are countless celebrations happening throughout June. Check out a full list of events HERE.

MoMA PS1 Warm Up

MoMA PS1 hosts outdoor DJ sets in its courtyard throughout the summer, and they’re always a good time. Upcoming dates include July 24 and 31, plus August 7, 14, 21, and 28 from 4–10 p.m. Grab tickets HERE.

Red Hook

Bonus points if you take the ferry. Spend the day hopping between Brooklyn Crab, Strong Rope Brewery, and Red Hook Tavern (if you can snag a reservation). Finish with a slice from Steve’s Authentic Key Lime Pie and live music at Sunny’s, a neighborhood staple that’s been around since the 1890s.

ResortPass Pool Day

I recently used ResortPass for the first time and can’t recommend it enough. Whether you’re a New Yorker looking for a pool day or you have a few hours to kill before a flight, it’s such a fun way to spend an afternoon. Browse NYC options HERE.

Outdoor Movies

I have a hard time sitting inside a movie theater when the weather is this nice. Luckily, NYC is packed with free and low-cost outdoor movie screenings in parks and on rooftops all summer long. Find a list HERE.

Governors Island

Take the FREE ferry, rent bikes, have a picnic, and grab a bite at Taco Vista or Six Coast.

Or head there for The Great Nosh Picnic Festival on June 21.

Brooklyn Flea

Shop for vintage finds, art, antiques, jewelry, and incredible food every Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m.–5 p.m.

Queens Night Market

One of my favorite NYC summer activities. With over 100 food and art vendors plus live music, it’s the perfect Saturday night outing. There’s even a price cap on food, so you can sample a bunch of vendors without breaking the bank.

Saturdays, 4 p.m.–midnight.

US Open Tennis Championships

End the summer in a polo, sipping a Honey Deuce and pretending you’ve always understood tennis scoring. Check out the schedule and events HERE.

SummerStage

There are so many free and ticketed concerts happening across the city, but SummerStage might be the best of them all, with performances spread across 13 parks. Check out the lineup HERE.

Shakespeare in the Park

A quintessential New York summer tradition. Bring a blanket, grab some snacks, and enjoy a night of theater under the stars.

Grand Bazaar NYC

Spend a Sunday wandering through one of the city’s best flea markets for antiques, art, vintage finds, and local makers.

Grand Banks

This is on my personal summer bucket list to revisit. There’s something so lovely about having a drink and a bite to eat on a boat, and Grand Banks does it exceptionally well. Grab a reservation HERE.

Coney Island

Have your Uptown Girls movie moment. Ride the Cyclone, hit the beach, play arcade games, and eat a Nathan’s Famous hot dog.

Free Kayaking

Get out on the water! Several locations throughout the city offer free kayaking during the summer, along with paid options if you’re looking for a longer adventure. Check out a full list HERE.

Rockaway Beach

I adore Rockaway. I didn’t grow up near the ocean, so the fact that I can hop on a train and be at the beach is still magical to me. Grab a burger and a photo booth strip at Rippers, tacos and watermelon juice from Tacoway, and finish with a piña colada from Connolly’s.

NYC Parks Calendar

NYC Parks hosts free concerts, fitness classes, movie nights, and community events all summer long. It’s worth checking the calendar regularly HERE.

The Met Cloisters

One of my favorite escapes in the city. It feels like you’ve somehow wandered into medieval Europe without ever leaving Manhattan.

NYC Restaurant Week

Keep an eye out for the updated July schedule HERE. I love a good prix fixe menu every now and then, and Restaurant Week is one of the best ways to try places you’ve been eyeing.

Drink Outside

I’ve written two guides dedicated to drinking outside in NYC. I’ll link the second one here—it includes a Google Map with pins from both lists, and I update it pretty regularly.

List Service

Let’s Drink Outside: NYC | Vol. 2

I couldn’t give you the full list all at once, so here’s Volume Two: more of my spots for a drink or bite outdoors when the sun is doing its thing. There are definitely more (Part Three feels inevitable), but for now please enjoy…

Read more

5 months ago · 7 likes · 4 comments · Kylie Smith

Street Festivals by Borough

Brooklyn

Bronx

Manhattan

Queens

Smorgasburg

This lasts from April–October - try a wide range of food vendors. Link HERE.

Thursday & Friday: World Trade Center | Saturday: Williamsburg | Sunday: Prospect Park

Farmers Markets

HERE is a list from last year outlining ones you can find in every borough.

Brooklyn Grange

Seasonal tasting tours, sunset suppers with guest chefs, farm coworking, and yoga, all atop Brooklyn’s iconic rooftop farms, the largest rooftop soil farms in the world. Grab tickets HERE

Day Trip

List Service

Day Trips from NYC: 001

There’s an endless supply of things to do in New York, but sometimes it’s nice to hop on a train, get out of the city for the day, and still be back in time for dinner…

Read more

4 months ago · 14 likes · 2 comments · Kylie Smith

Want recommendations on the cheaper end? Check out my List Service guide to saving money while still having a very good time.

List Service

I’m Cheap: NYC Edition

New York is expensive. Everything is expensive. But we must live and we must enjoy life so please enjoy things I do that go easy on the Apple wallet…

Read more

5 months ago · 160 likes · 22 comments · Kylie Smith

There’s an endless amount to do in New York, and I’ve merely scratched the surface. Let me know what I should add to my summer bucket list.

Share List Service

Taos feels magical in a completely different way than Santa Fe. The landscape is dramatic, the energy is slower, and every local we met was genuinely kind and eager to share recommendations and stories about the area.

Some of my favorite places on trips are always the ones recommended directly by locals.

Where We Stayed

We split our time between two stays:

• An Airbnb just outside town with a hot tub perfect for stargazing
• A cozy bed and breakfast right in town with an incredible homemade breakfast spread each morning

Other stays worth checking out:

• Earthships
• Taos Inn
• Hotel Willa

Where to Eat

One thing I loved about Taos is how many restaurants source directly from local farms and gardens. Everything tasted incredibly fresh.

Tomorrow Tomorrow
Unreal open-faced bagels and perfect coffee.

Manzanita Market
Great for breakfast or lunch. It’s the sister restaurant to Love Apple and keeps the same farm-to-table philosophy with amazing soups, sandwiches, smoothies, and fresh ingredients.

The Love Apple
Probably the restaurant most recommended to us by locals. Farm-to-table, intimate, and absolutely worth calling to make a reservation for (ps cash only)

Juliette
Located inside Hotel Willa. Great for dinner or drinks.

Orlando

World Cup Cafe

La Cueva Cafe

Farmhouse Cafe & Bakery

What to Explore

One of the best parts of Taos is simply wandering. Many of the bars have live music almost every night, and most post schedules directly on their doors.

Hike to Williams Lake
About a 4-mile hike leading to a stunning alpine lake. I’d recommend hiking shoes since much of the trail is uphill with snow, slush, mud, and rocky terrain depending on the season. Once you make it to the lake sit and have a snack / rest in the grass and enjoy the landscape. There’s also a bar at the trailhead where you can grab a post-hike beer with an incredible view.

Black Rock Hot Springs
A short and easy hike leading to natural hot springs beside the river. There are two warm soaking pools along with access to the river for cold plunges.

One thing locals warned us about since it’s a natural, clothing-optional hot spring, experiences can vary depending on who’s there. Luckily, it was quiet when we visited.

If you want something more secluded, locals recommended hiking farther down the same trail toward Manby Hot Springs, which tends to be less crowded.

Thousand Waves Spa
If you’re looking for another spa day or hot springs experience, this one is stunning, designed in a Japanese-inspired style and incredibly peaceful (closer to Santa Fe)

Taos Art Museum at Fechin House

Kit Carson House & Museum

Where to Drink

Alley Cantina
A classic local dive bar with pool tables, shuffleboard, live music, and open mic nights. The perfect end-of-night spot.

The Stakeout
Reserve ahead if you’re there Friday through Sunday. It’s an amazing place for sunset drinks or dinner when the event space is open.

Anaconda Bar

Parcht

The Bavarian Restaurant

Taos Inn

Shopping

Parsons Gallery
Visit Emily and explore work from some of the best Southwestern artists in one space.

The Arc, anewera
An insanely beautiful shop with vintage clothing and accessories for both men and women.

Everywhere Taos
Gorgeous home decor and art pieces in another beautifully curated space.

MoMo

Made Solid

The main strip of Taos is extremely walkable, so honestly just wander and let yourself get pulled into places.

As recommended by a local, shop local.. Taos has been an art colony for more than a hundred years and to give you insight on how they feel about chain places they’ve burned down their Starbucks three times to the point it has a guard on property and shot holes in the McDonalds sign so it now reads only Taos. So that being said there’s a bunch of places to eat and drink to support those that live there …

All that to say, Santa Fe and Taos were filled with some of the kindest people I’ve encountered while traveling. The landscapes are breathtaking, the energy feels grounding, and the creativity woven throughout both places makes them feel incredibly special.

I truly couldn’t recommend the trip more.

I linked everything I mentioned above + along with Santa Fe recs in a Google Map below:

MAP

Subscribe now

I just got back from the beautiful landscapes of New Mexico, where I celebrated turning 30 with two of my closest friends. It was magical, grounding, and honestly one of the more stunning I’ve trips taken. Here’s a full recap if you’re planning your own New Mexico escape from Santa Fe to Taos.

You’ll definitely want to rent a car for most of the trip, but there are surprisingly great public transit options, too. I flew into Albuquerque because flights were drastically cheaper and had better timing options. From there, I took the Rail Runner train into Santa Fe while waiting for one of my friends to drive in from Denver. It reminded me of the Metro North, clean, easy, scenic, and only $9 through some incredibly beautiful landscapes going straight into downtown Santa Fe. There’s also a free bus (blue line bus 200) that runs from Taos to Santa Fe.

Perfect 24 Hours in Santa Fe

Start your morning at Cafe Pasqual’s for delicious New Mexican-inspired breakfast. I got the breakfast burrito and then followed signs to their upstairs gallery.

After breakfast, spend time wandering through the galleries, boutiques, and side streets nearby. Santa Fe is one of those places where every corner feels curated.

One of my favorite galleries was Gerald Peters Contemporary, beautiful pieces, a peaceful backyard, and such a calming atmosphere.

For shopping, don’t miss Zizi Ceramics and Kowboyz. Between the art, jewelry, vintage, and pottery, Santa Fe will for sure lead to you to some treasures. I pinned the rest on a map at the end.

End the night at The Shed for dinner paired with La Reina for drinks.

Other stops to hit:

See/Shop:

Zizi Ceramics

Gerald Peters Contemporary

Kowboyz

Folklore

San Miguel Chapel

Seret & Sons

Santa Fe Vintage - Appointment Only

Shiprock Santa Fe

Georgia O’Keeffe Museum

Ojo Caliente Mineral Springs Resort & Spa

Ten Thousand Waves Spa

Drink:

La Reina

Cowgirl

Joes Tequila Bar

Evangelos

Eat:

La Choza

The Shed

Sazón

The Pantry

Tia Sophias

Paloma

Where to Stay

We stayed in an Airbnb that had the perfect New Mexico energy. Quiet mornings on the porch, cozy interiors, and they even left us a welcome bottle of wine when we arrived.

If hotels are more your thing, Hotel El Rey court is affordable, and even if you don’t stay there, definitely stop by La Reina for drinks.

Day Two in Santa Fe/Abiquiú: My Perfect Day

If you’re there on a Saturday or Sunday, start your morning at the Santa Fe Farmers Market. We grabbed breakfast burritos from one of the stands along with pastries and coffee before wandering through the market. There are tons of vendors selling clothing, home decor, jewelry, vintage finds, and handmade goods, so leave yourself time to explore.

Next, we headed to the Georgia O’Keeffe Museum. If you’re on a tight schedule, definitely reserve a timed-entry ticket ahead of time.

Museum Tickets : HERE

The museum itself is beautiful and thoughtfully curated. There’s a great introductory film about her life and work, and seeing so many of her pieces in person was incredible. We spent about 45 minutes there before heading to what ended up being my favorite part of the entire trip with a pit stop at Wolf and Mermaid Enchanted Cafe for caffeine.

About an hour outside Santa Fe is Georgia O’Keeffe’s home in Abiquiú, where she lived until the end of her life at 98 years old. She left it preserved as a museum, and visiting it honestly felt surreal.

The home sits quietly within the landscape and feels exactly like you’d imagine Georgia O’Keeffe’s world to feel, minimal yet warm, filled with natural textures, plants, bones, rocks, and thoughtful details that feel deeply personal to her.

This is absolutely a can’t-miss experience in my opinion.

You meet at the visitor center before being driven to the property with a guide who walks you through her life, stories from the house, and the many artists, musicians, and creatives who spent time there during the 35+ years she lived in the home.

I booked our tickets months in advance, so if New Mexico is even remotely on your radar, reserve these as early as possible. They sell out and showing up without tickets will likely lead to dissapointment.

On the drive to our next stop, we stopped at a small roadside restaurant near Abiquiú for tacos and I grabbed a slice of carrot cake to-go to eat later on my birthday.

After a full day of walking and exploring, it was finally time to relax.

About an hour away are Ojo Caliente Mineral Springs Resort & Spa. Day passes were $69 and included towels and a locker and full access to pools, saunas day beds, hammocks, steam room, and showers. We arrived around 5 PM and stayed until evening they close at 10 PM. Did someone say hot springs under the stars?

The space has mud baths, eucalyptus steam rooms, saunas, and multiple hot springs pools to rotate between. They encourage quiet conversation, so the entire atmosphere feels peaceful and restorative.

We left feeling completely reset.

From the springs, it’s about a 45-minute to one-hour drive into Taos, where we spent the next three days. I’m nearing email length so I’ll break that out in part two with a full list pinned to a Google Map. :)

Subscribe now

Share

There’s an endless supply of things to do in New York, but sometimes it’s nice to hop on a train, get out of the city for the day, and still be back in time for dinner.

As the weather warms up, I suggest a day trip that’s about an hour and 18 minutes from Grand Central.

You’ll hop on the Metro-North Railroad, which runs about every hour on weekends, heading toward New Haven. After two stops, you’ll get off in Stamford (about 51 minutes) and transfer just across the platform to the New Canaan line. From there, it’s four stops to New Canaan, your destination for the day.

This will run you around $12.50 one way. My suggestion is to take the 10:02am train so you arrive at 11:18am and have a full day.

The train drops you right near town, where you can walk around and grab some food. I’ve linked a few options HERE, but I recommend roaming through the shops and cafés and seeing what you find.

Stop 1: The Glass House

Next, you’re heading to your first destination, The Glass House. You’ll need to make a reservation in advance, so plan a few weeks ahead and book a time slot.

Tickets: HERE

While I was there, I heard multiple people call asking if they could book the same day, and the answer was always no. So definitely plan ahead.

Show up a bit early for your time slot. The meeting point is near town and the train station, not the actual house, and they will shuttle you to the property.

Once you arrive, they’ll let you know the return shuttle times so you can stay shorter or longer depending on your schedule. Just keep in mind our next stop closes at 5pm if you want to fit both in.

The Glass House is exactly what it sounds like, a house made of glass and steel, designed by Philip Johnson and built between 1947 and 1949 as his personal weekend home. The property includes multiple buildings and art installations to explore beyond the house itself. The Library was my favorite.

There are staff members throughout the property who are incredibly knowledgeable and happy to answer questions about the architecture, art, and Philip Johnson himself. It really elevates the experience.

You’ll be walking on grass and gravel between buildings, so keep that in mind when choosing shoes. Ideally, go on a sunny, warmer day since most of the experience is outdoors.

Preserved homes are some of my favorite places to visit, and this one truly feels like a marvel.

After your visit, you’ll take the shuttle back to town, then grab a quick Uber to Grace Farms. It’s about an 11-minute ride.

Stop 2: Grace Farms

Formerly a horse farm, Grace Farms is now a stunning architectural space designed by SANAA that blends seamlessly into the surrounding landscape and hosts cultural events.

You can walk the grounds, where you’ll find sculptures, benches, and beautiful viewpoints throughout. There’s also a café where you can grab coffee or tea, plus plenty of seating to relax or flip through their collection of books.

They often host events and speakers, so it’s worth checking their calendar ahead of time.

It’s completely free to explore, but you can register for a free ticket in advance if you’d like.

Hours:
Tuesday to Saturday: 10am to 5pm
Sunday: 12pm to 5pm
Monday: Closed

One note, if you’re leaving around closing time at 5pm, it can be surprisingly difficult to get an Uber back to the train station even though it’s only about 10 minutes away. Service can be spotty, so I recommend calling your car at least 15 minutes in advance and giving yourself extra buffer time to catch your train home.

Recapping your links:

Map Pins: HERE
Grace Farms Website: HERE
Tickets to The Glass House: HERE (Tours start April 16th through Dec 14th)

Let me know if you end up taking the day trip!

xx

I couldn’t give you the full list all at once, so here’s Volume Two: more of my spots for a drink or bite outdoors when the sun is doing its thing. There are definitely more (Part Three feels inevitable), but for now please enjoy.

And if you missed Part One, I’ve linked it below.

List Service

Let’s Drink Outside: NYC | Vol. 1

Warm weather in the city is finally within reach. Order a side of olives, a glass of wine, a spritz (or a sbagliato), and do the only logical thing after a winter like this: sit outside…

Read more

5 months ago · 9 likes · 4 comments · Kylie Smith

Hotel Delmano
The interiors are stunning, but the sidewalk café seating does the trick when you want to feel a breeze - order a cocktail and oysters and settle in.

Westlight
A classic for when a parent or out-of-town friend wants a rooftop with a view, this never disappoints.

Yves
A French bistro in the heart of Tribeca with outdoor seating perfect for drinks, dinner, or both.

Radio Star
Outdoor seating plus $10 martinis daily from 4–6pm. Also worth it for brunch.

Dante West Village
Outdoor seating and good martini’s are two of my favorite words. Dante does them both well.

Bar Oliver
Cute Chinatown setup with outdoor seating and a solid list of wine, cocktails, and vermouth.

Gemma
Attached to The Bowery Hotel, this neighborhood staple has a lively outdoor scene when the weather’s right.

With Others
A great wine list and rotating chef residencies, best enjoyed on their back patio in the spring.

Sauced
Right across from With Others, another wine bar, another back patio. No complaints.

Bar Valentina
A chic cocktail bar with a $10 “Tiny Tini” for when you don’t want to fully commit.

Carlota
Tapas bar and vermuteria with a great happy hour, a $14 martinis + olives combo and $1 oysters Sunday through Wednesday, all night.

Sunday to Sunday
I’ve passed this spot countless times, when it’s warm, the outdoor tables fill up with Aperol spritzes and good company. Always a good sign.

Lai Rai
I almost don’t want to share this one (limited outdoor seating), but natural wine and ice cream is a pairing worth gatekeeping less.

Broken Shaker
A tropical rooftop moment in Gramercy, perched atop the Freehand Hotel, with pretty Manhattan views.

Roey’s
Weekday happy hour (4–6pm) is hard to beat: $4 beer, $6 wine, $5 spritz, and $10 pizza.

Google Map: HERE

A lot of people use the Sephora sale as an excuse to try something new, but for me, it’s all about restocking the products I already trust, especially with sensitive, acne-prone skin.

If you’ve ever struggled with breakouts, you probably also have a very humbling “acne progress” album in your camera roll. Different phases, different flare-ups… and hopefully, progress you can now look back on and feel proud of.

A big turning point for me was getting facials at Sofie Pavitt’s (the acne specialist herself) Studio, and being introduced to this online website called Acne Clinic.

They had me paste the ingredient lists from all of my skincare and makeup into the site to figure out what I could keep, and what might be secretly causing flare-ups.

The frustrating part? So many products that are made for curing acne are packed with pore-clogging ingredients. (???)

So I did the work. I ran nearly all of my skincare and beauty products through the ingredient-checking site. You paste in a product’s ingredient list, and it flags anything that could be clogging or unsafe.

Share List Service

Below i’ve linked products I genuinely love and use on sale right now, everything already vetted, so you don’t have to do any work.

Skin Care:

For overall tone and fading acne scars/hyperpigmentation, I (like many others) swear by Vino Perfect & it also rarely goes on sale.

Everything from Sofie Pavitt is acne-safe, but my personal favorite is the Mandelic Clearing Serum.

I love a thick, creamy moisturizer, Tower 28 is great. I also use their Hypochlorous spray (at work, on the subway, after a workout) to help with redness and irritation.

When I want to tackle redness and sun coverage in one, Dr. Jart+ Cicapair is magic, and I can go without face makeup.

For everyday coverage, I use a combo of Tower 28 SunnyDays (in 15 Melrose) and NARS concealer (shade Vanilla). It’s lightweight + has SPF.

If I want something fuller coverage, I’ve included a few other acne-safe foundation options below. I’ve also been using Merit stick and loving it.

My favorite blush (gifted by Armani Beauty , shade 62 Delicate Mauve) is officially on its last drop, so it’s time to restock. I use it with the Saie Contour in Sand. in Sand. also love the Rare Beauty blushes, they’re acne-safe and come in so many good shades.

Share

The weather is warming up, I’m sneezing nonstop, and that can only mean one thing: Spring in New York City has officially arrived. It’s time to chase blooms, enjoy light jacket days, and spend as much time outside as possible.

Here is my go-to hit list for the season:

Botanical Gardens

We’re lucky to have a few botanical gardens across the city, so pick one (or a few) and make a day of it. If you’re a New York resident, use my hack from the article below to get in for free.

NYC for Cheap

I took myself on a solo date to Brooklyn Botanic Garden last spring and fell in love with daffodil hill and the cherry blossoms. Even the bonsai collection there year-round is worth the trip alone.

Birdwatching

Spring migration makes this the perfect time to get into birding. I’ve joined the McGolrick Bird Club on and off for the past few years, and it’s one of the easiest ways to start.

It’s free, beginner-friendly, and genuinely chill. They meet every Saturday at 9am at McGolrick Park (Russell & Driggs entrance). Bring binoculars or borrow a pair they provide, walk the park, and learn about the species passing through the city.

I originally joined just to get off my phone and take a walk with other people and it stuck.

Battery Park Tulips + SeaGlass Carousel

Head downtown to Battery Park, where tulips take over in the spring. Walk along the West Side Highway and end in a full-on bloom moment.

While you’re there, hop on the SeaGlass Carousel for $6. You’re never too old for a carousel, and this one is especially magical.

Rowboats in Central Park

Rent a boat at The Central Park Boathouse and lean into the cliché. It’s perfect for a date or bucket list activity for a friend visiting. Grab a bite or a drink at the restaurant after.

Mon- Thur $25/hour Fri-Sun $30/hour.

Brewery Day in Red Hook

Make your way out to Red Hook by train, bus, or (my favorite) ferry, and post up outside at Strong Rope Brewery. You’ll get waterfront views and a peak at the Statue of Liberty.

After you’ve had a beer, end your night with a treat from Steve’s Authentic Key Lime Pie.

The Met Cloisters

I finally visited The Met Cloisters last summer after my Nana raved about it my entire life. It truly feels like stepping into another time: it’s quiet, historic, and perched on a hill in between Washington Heights and Inwood in Upper Manhattan where you’ll find a stunning collection of medieval artworks.

Friday Nights at MoMA

Spend a late evening at the Museum of Modern Art. Wander the galleries, grab a glass of wine, and sit next to a Giacometti in the sculpture garden as the weather starts to warm.

Reserve your free ticket HERE - Fridays from 5:30pm -8:30pm

The Orchid Show

The Orchid Show at New York Botanical Garden runs through April 26 featuring Mr. Flower Fantastic’s Concrete Jungle. Expect thousands of orchids arranged into NYC-inspired installations inside the conservatory.

Get your tickets HERE.

Conservatory Garden, Central Park

Tucked inside Central Park, this formal garden dates back to 1937 and is a quiet escape from the rest of the park. Go now while everything is in bloom.

Eat & Drink Outside

I made a full guide for this below, because truly, this is the main event of spring.

Let's Drink Outside: NYC

Farmers Markets

Spring means markets are back. Expect baked goods, fresh produce, flowers, and local vendors. HERE is a list from last year outlining ones you can find in every borough. Some of my favorites:

• Union Square Greenmarket

• Fort Greene Park Greenmarket

• McGolrick Park Farmers Market

MoMA PS1 Block Party

On April 18, MoMA PS1 is hosting a 50th anniversary block party with DJs, talks, food vendors, and activations across the space. A perfect early spring day plan.

Little Island

Start the day at Little Island, grab a bite, wander the floating park, and take in the views.

Share

Warm weather in the city is finally within reach. Order a side of olives, a glass of wine, a spritz (or a sbagliato), and do the only logical thing after a winter like this: sit outside.

Here’s a running list of my personal favorites and frequent flyers, spots with rooftops, and locales with outdoor seating so you can soak up the sun. In no particular order:

map pin linked in bar name

Cherry On Top

Come for the interiors, stay for the rooftop, cherry Jell-O shots, and daily happy hour. They regularly host visiting chefs for pop-ups, so keep an eye on their Instagram for events. It’s wine-only, but still one of my go-to date spots for an easy, sunny rooftop hang.

Rhodora Wine Bar

A few blocks from Fort Greene Park, start the day with a picnic, end with wine and light bites. They’ve got outdoor seating plus big open windows that let the whole space catch a perfect spring breeze.

Frog

A wine-only Bed-Stuy gem with a backyard that feels more like a friend’s patio than a bar (complementary).

Casetta

I find myself here often. Parisian interiors, minimal wait times, and the perfect place for a casual glass of wine. They have light snacks, ice cream, and outdoor seating with those classic café chairs. I went here this week and got their version of a spritz - loved it.

Don't Call Me Shirley

I recently when here for a birthday and remarked at the cute backyard that I’ll be scouting out as soon as the temp is above 60. (P.S. cash only)

Elvis

This is a frequent date spot for me, it’s cozy with pretty interiors, the staff is always sweet and I love the Elvis Martini. Go for the drinks + bites and enjoy curbside seating.

Bar Pisellino

So Italian, so perfect. Go for a coffee or a spritz, although on weekends it’s hard to get a chair (but fun people watching when you do).

Le Dive

I do adore a french infused bar. Their decor and flowers on the table are always brownie points in my book and their bread + butter pairs so so nicely with wine or a cocktail. Another perfect spot for a warm day, but on weekends, get a resy or put your name in early.

Dimes

Can’t get a resy at Le Dive? Put your name in at Dimes just a block down. In warmer months, they’ll have street seating when the road is closed. Enjoy a tasty, healthy meal or just come for a drink in the street.

St Jardim

A solid wine list, small bites, and prime West Village people-watching.

Rodeo

Start by sitting outside with a drink then stay into the night for dancing. Keep an eye on their IG for different DJs and events.

Bar Bianchi

Milanese spot that does spritzes and Negronis right. Full menu, outdoor seating, and multiple spritz sizes for when you want a size large. They’ve just started Cicchetti hour Mondays-Thursdays from 5-6:30 p.m with discounted bites and drinks.

Dear Friend Books

Pick up a rare or secondhand book, then head to their tiny back patio with a glass of wine. Quiet, perfect, underrated.

LunÀtico

Start with happy hour on the back patio, move inside for the live jazz once the sun goes down.

xx

Part 2 coming soon … and I’ll include the full list in a Google Maps for you :)

New York is expensive. Everything is expensive. But we must live and we must enjoy life so please enjoy things I do that go easy on the Apple wallet.

Library Card

If you don’t have a New York/Brooklyn/Queens library card… I have questions. Do you not like free literature? Maybe you don’t read..okay..(I linked the application so no excuse now).

But regardless, this card opens so many doors. My favorite perk: free access to most NYC museums. Guggenheim for $30? No, free! Once you have your card, you’ll get a number to use on Culture Pass, which gives you two free tickets to museums across the city. Perfect for a date, a visiting friend, or just your annual “I live in a cultural capital of the world” moment. Get one NOW and go see the spring flowers at a botanical garden. I beg.

You’re looking to get pampered and you deserve it.

Haircut? I’ve got you. Mian Tian Sing Hair Salon
A blowout, head massage, and cut that will bring you back to life for $60 pre-tax/tip

Massage, $48 for 60-minutes. No it’s not fancy, yes it’s good. 145 Health Spa pre-tax/tip

An affordable facial. $49 at Diana Beauty Spa pre-tax/tip

Okay, let’s eat.

After your massage, you need sustenance. We’re going to Shu Jiao Fu Zhou. You can get a meal for two for under $10. Get the peanut noodles and dumplings of your choice, but honestly, everything looks incredible. Those are just my hyperfixations.

Let’s go gallery hopping.

It’s free, and it’s the perfect way to escape cold, rain, or scorching weather. My hot list is below dropped into a Google Map you can save because I love you, xx.

Gallery Google Map - HERE

Ride the Ferry.

I love the ferry, and I’m deeply sad I don’t live closer to a terminal. But you don’t need to rent a boat this summer—just hop on the NYC Ferry for about $4. Head to Rockaway, or go from Manhattan to Red Hook. If you’re craving a boat moment, she’s there for you and she won’t break the bank. Also… they sell drinks, if that’s your thing.

If you feel called to see Lady Liberty herself, take the Staten Island Ferry. It passes right by Statue of Liberty. You can hop off or just ride it back. This mode of transport is also FREE.

Also doubles as a very cute date idea: meet at a terminal, then ferry to a bar or restaurant.

Happy Hour.

I have plans to make the ultimate HH Google Map (TBD if I’ll share), but for now, I’m sharing this random excel I found from research Googling HERE.

Touch grass.
Go lie in one of the many beautiful parks if the weather allows.

Movie Night

Follow Elizabeth Street Garden / Bryant Park / NYC parks on Instagram or their newsletters. They host free outdoor movie nights in warmer months. Come early, bring a blanket, snacks, a lover, and enjoy a cinema under the stars.

Speaking of movies: I tried the Alamo Drafthouse $29 unlimited pass last winter. I got my money’s worth in movies… less so in snacks. Regal Cinemas and AMC Theatres also do cheap Tuesdays with around $8 tickets. Book ahead and thank me later.

$30 under 30: Ballet

The New York City Ballet is something everyone should experience at least once (or, in my case, as often as possible). The building is stunning, the talent is insane, and it’s a great excuse to dress up and support the arts. If you’re 30 or under, or have a friend who is, you can get two tickets for $30 a piece on select performances. Truly a steal. Register HERE and look out for when the tickets drop Tuesday’s at 12pm.

Sports

Go to a Mets or Yankees game. If you don’t mind the nosebleeds and want to partake in eating a summer glizzy in a proper stadium seat, you can easily find earlier season tickets for under $20.

I could go on, but I’ll stop here. Drop your favorite cheap eats or NYC hacks in the comments. Life is expensive, but we have dollar $2 slices to live for.

xx

Breaking down the top contenders of the month: Best of March edition
What I saw, ate, bought, and felt inspired by.

Thrift Books

You may already know about this and my fear of gatekeeping is probably irrational, but if you’re not looking to spend a fortune on coffee table books (or books in general), please explore the treasure that is ThriftBooks.

I don’t think I’ve ever paid more than $14 for a large hardcover. I use them equally for decor and inspiration, with a particular love for old home decor books.

Some highlights from this month’s purchases below, I bought seven books and spent under $92.

Previous favorite → Current Dupe

I spent an unreasonable amount of time trying to find the perfect white tee: 100% cotton, thick, not see-through, with that specific ’90s fit. Essentially, I was trying to replace a worn-to-death T-shirt of my grandmother’s.

After attempts with Uniqlo, J.Crew, Gap, and others, I finally landed on FLORE FLORE. I really didn’t want to spend $98 on a white shirt destined for pit stains or food spills, but unfortunately, it’s as good as everyone says. The quality and fit are exactly what I was looking for. Consider this yet another endorsement.

While I’m not usually hunting for dupes, I had a Madewell gift card and picked up a red tee that, when it arrived, felt like a very close match. Slightly lower price point, same back seam, perfect boat neck, and similar weight and structure. They don’t offer it in white, but if you’re into red or black stripes, it’s a lovely option (and often on sale).

Merit Beauty

I have a very micro following on Instagram (lol), which occasionally results in a brand offering to send something. I only say yes if I’m genuinely curious, and this month I received a few pieces from Merit that have become daily staples.

I was hesitant at first since I’ve actually owned the foundation stick before, but getting the correct shade makes all the difference(shocking I know). The brush and stick together are a dream. For someone with sensitive, acne-prone skin, it blends seamlessly and, importantly, hasn’t caused any breakouts.

Sézane staples

Every fourth day in New York, we get a glimpse of spring . On those days, I’ve been reaching for two Sézane pieces I now own in both tan and black.

A note about me: if something is minimal, well-made, and/or fits perfectly, I will buy it in multiple neutral colors and outfit repeat endlessly (hopefully undetected).

The trench is one of those pieces. I love it deeply, so yes, I own it in both tan and black-currenlty sold out:(, and I wear them constantly whenever the weather calls for a light layer. It buttons to the top Lily-Rose style, and after three years, my tan version still looks brand new despite being dragged across ferries, subways, trains, bikes, and benches.

The bag is another standout. I’ve convinced several friends to buy it, and I carry mine everywhere in the spring and summer. It fits everything: towel, goggles, book, snacks, even a small radio for beach days. I finally picked it up in black to give my original a break. If you’re channeling a Jane Birkin basket-era energy, this absolutely delivers.

The hat saga

Almost two years ago, I pinned a photo that captivated me, largely because of the woman’s hat. I would later find myself in milliner’s boutique in upstate, where I was sold what is essentially an unfinished hat without the brim you can see in the yellow photo below.

Sézane has teased similar styles without actually releasing them, but I was fed an instagram ad to a very affordable black option that captures that same charm - it’s on it’s way in mail now.

Make it a Date

One of my favorite rituals this year has been a standing weekly date with one of my oldest friends in NY. Every Wednesday, we meet for hot fudge sundaes (and Manhattans).

I’ve started mapping our favorites, but the current frontrunner is Blue Ribbon Brasserie. That said, we’re never above a McDonald’s hot fudge, it always hits. I made a map to some of our stops and soon to be reservations HERE.

On friends, again

I also had the pleasure of visiting a friend’s photography exhibit: UNGUARDED in DUMBO. It’s on view through April 25 at zarolat gallery, definitely worth a visit if you’re in the area.

xx

For my job, I’ve booked (and spent time in) more than a few New York City hotels—so consider this a short, honest recap of some of the most beautiful spaces I’ve experienced, and whether they’re actually worth your money.

Nine Orchard
This hotel feels less like a hotel and more like staying in your impossibly chic, very wealthy friend’s guest room. Thoughtful ceramic details are everywhere, the lobby is warm and inviting, and I’ll always prefer a wall of keys over key cards. The service is exceptional—once, I asked for a Band-Aid and they sent up options for both my skin tone and my friend’s. Truly above and beyond.

They’ve recently done away with complimentary breakfast, which is a loss, but the Corner Bar and Swan Room are still not to miss, they’re stunning, and as a guest, you get priority access. There’s also a cozy sixth-floor lounge with board games, a fireplace, and bowls of taffy that make it feel like a hidden retreat.

Pro tip: request a room with a tub, and if you can, a corner room the light is beautiful, even on gray days. The sound system is seamless, the flowers are always fresh, and yes, a room service coffee will cost you $11 but it arrives on a silver tray with doilies, looking like a still life. It’s a 10/10 for me.

Public Hotel
The design here is minimalist chic founded by the co-founder of Studio 54 in that. It’s a great location surrounded by bars + restaurants but some restraints if you’re someone who values hospitality details like a stocked minibar or in-room coffee and check in with a person, this might not be your place. That said, the automated shades are a small luxury I loved. For some rooms you receive a $30 per guest credit for breakfast at the downstairs cafe. There’s plentiful work spaces, open wifi and in warmer months their rooftop bar is a perfect spot for those visiting to see views of the city.

The Standard
I really wanted to love this one. We booked a room with a standalone tub—because nothing says “relaxation” quite like a water bill that isn’t yours.

To start with the positives: the rooms are sleek and minimal, the light is incredible, and the views of the Hudson and Little Island are genuinely stunning.

However, if you’re staying Wednesday through Sunday and actually plan to sleep… the rooftop club’s bass will make that difficult. The music seeps into your room from around midnight to 4am or staurday and sunday starting at 2pm. There’s a reason they leave earplugs on the nightstand. My takeaway: if you’re planning to be out until those hours anyway, it works—club, tub, sleep. Otherwise, maybe request a lower floor.

The Bowery Hotel
This one feels quintessentially New York in the way only a few places do. Yes, some rooms can be a bit dark, but the atmosphere more than makes up for it. The lobby feels preserved in time—dimly lit, daily papers laid out, keys hanging behind the desk (a personal favorite detail).

They’ve mastered branding in a way that feels thoughtful, not forced from the little bear on the bed to the monogrammed linens. The bathrooms are stocked with details like Marvis toothpaste, and there are hand-drawn neighborhood maps, branded notepads, and that signature Bowery red woven throughout.

It’s cozy, chic, and perfect for people-watching. In the winter, the fireplace alone is worth a visit. Room service from Gemma is a must. And they have my non-negotiable branded robes and slippers, check check.

The Ludlow Hotel
If you’ve seen a certain NYC hotel bathroom all over Instagram, it’s probably this one. The Ludlow’s bathrooms really are that beautiful, and many rooms have great city views.

That said, like most NYC hotels, rooms skew small—even the Skybox room, while slightly more spacious, aren’t expansive. But realistically, you’re not in New York to stay in your room. For what it is, it’s stylish, comfortable, and very photogenic.

The Hotel Chelsea
If you’ve read Just Kids or just want to sleep in the same building as so many legendary artists used to reside, staying here feels essential.

The space is layered with history, walls covered in art, you’ll run into residents whose dogs are on a first name basis with the staff. The lobby is perfect: fireplaces, mismatched seating, endless corners to sink into.

The lobby bar is a must, and being a hotel guest definitely helps with access. I’ve come here just for tea or a drink, and it never disappoints. (My partner loved the burger.) I’m also partial to anywhere that serves chips and nuts with my negroni.

The rooms carry that same charm, real keys with red tassels, red-piped bedding, robes and slippers. If you can, request a room with a balcony, but honestly, it’s special either way. The spa is still on my list, but as it stands, it’s one of the cozier, more character-filled stays in the city.