The New York Experience: Exploring 5th Avenue & the Empire State Building
Article by: Ashley M lands
— Visitors Guide —
This 2022 Travel series features an Insider's Look at New York City, what's reopened in the 5 Boroughs, the best economy hotels, as well as amazing adventures you don't want to miss!
These 3 articles cover: the 5th Avenue Experience (this article), The Midtown East Experience,
the Times Square Experience (including BROADWAY).
New York, New York
WHAT CAN I SAY ABOUT 5TH AVENUE…
It is one of the most prestigious, famous, and expensive avenues in the world. Home to The Metropolitan Museum of Art, Rockefeller Center, the Flatiron Building, The New York Public Library, Central Park, Bryant Park, the Guggenheim Museum, the Museum of Modern Art (MOMA), and of course, the Empire State Building.
We'll take you behind the scenes to some of the best locations on 5th Avenue! Included in this article is an exclusive peek at what it's like to watch the sunrise from the Empire State Building, The New York Public Library, The Best economy hotels on 5th, and of course…FOOD!
SUNRISE AT THE EMPIRE
- How you can secure A sunrise ticket -
I have always associated New York with an infamous woman... Some people love her, others loathe her, but no matter what - she is always talked about. When it comes to ICONIC, the Empire State Building should undoubtedly be on a person's list of things to do when visiting New York City.
SUNRISE WITH STARBUCKS ON THE 86TH FLOOR
The Empire State Building
Sunrise in New York gets more and more exciting as you climb in altitude. Needless to say, the 86th Floor is a spectacular place to start a new day. The excitement of the Empire State Building excursion begins well before you reach the outdoor terrace; The Lobby is an Art Deco Masterpiece itself.
Once you do make your way to the iconic 86th, the open-air observation deck provides a 360-degree view of New York, Brooklyn, Queens, and everything in between. A clear day, this view stretches across six states: New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Connecticut, Massachusetts, and Delaware.
Learn more about booking the Sunrise Tour here!
where to stay
Courtyard New York Manhattan/Fifth Avenue
Despite being home to Millionaires Row, you can still find great and affordable hotel accommodations on 5th Avenue! The 5th Avenue Courtyard is uniquely positioned where you’ll be able to stroll to Bryant Park, The Museum of Modern Art,The New York Public Library, Shopping galore, and some of the best outdoor cafes and restaurants in the city. Below are some key features of the hotel, and it’s location!
(tap to open Key Features about this hotel)
5th ave activities
Bryant Park
Bryant Park is oftentimes referred to as Manhattan’s “Town Square “ and rightfully so. This picturesque park sits in the middle of the skyscrapers behind the iconic NY Public Library, like a peaceful oasis amidst the bustle of the city. The lush grounds, events, and ambiance of one of NYC's most beloved parks are enjoyed by New Yorkers and visitors alike all year long.
Bryant Park is also home to the Porch Grill, the Bryant Park Grill, Bryant Park Café, Breads Bakery, Le Pain Quotidien, Joe Coffee Company, & more! During the winter months, the park is converted into the Winter Village! Enjoy New York City’s only free admission ice skating rink, the Holiday Shops, and rinkside eats! Learn more about NY’s Holiday activities here.
nypl
The New York Public Library (or NYPL) is a National Historic Landmark containing more than six million books.it is free and open to visitors from around the world! The Stephen A. Schwarzman Building, officially the New York Public Library, is the flagship building of the New York Public Library system located in the heart of Midtown Manhattan, New York City. Free to the general public. It was constructed by combining the Tilden Trust and the Astor and Lenox libraries in 1897. At the time it officially opened on May 23, 1911, the Library was the largest marble building ever built in the United States. Every time I enter the library, I feel the same level of excitement. To me, visiting the NYPL is like spending an afternoon at Hogwarts, so I highly recommend it!
Below ‘dining’ we’ll highlight more NYC activities including, The Statue of Liberty, Times Square, Broadway, Manhattan’s waterways, and more!
FOR THE FOODIES
We've linked some of our favorite new york spots near 5th ave!
La Pecora Bianca - Bryant Park
La Pecora Bianca ‘the white sheep’, offers a relaxed, all day dining experience with approachable, quality Italian food, in a stylish and comfortable setting. Drinks are inspired by the tradition of aperitivo hour on the ‘Piazza’, and feature the La Pecora Rosa organic rosé, an extensive selection of spritzes and negronis, and signature cocktails built around Italian Amari.
The Bryant Park Café
Run by the Bryant Park Grill, the Café features a more informal new American-style menu and bar.
On a beautiful day, consider this your go-to “people watching spot” for Bryant Park!
Valerie
This space is fascinating! Valerie's style echoes Manhattan's Golden Age and features iconic architecture. It is an eclectic mix of old and new, moody and refined. The building materials include tiles, brass, marble, and smoked mirrors. Burlesque dancer wall coverings and dark floral patterns echo feminine touches throughout the space. An eclectic mix of colors and textures gives every room its own personality.
The specialty is cocktails. There is an extensive library of gins along with signature & classic drinks. A seasonally driven menu has been carefully curated by Executive Chef Darren Pettigrew. Organic and sustainable proteins are at the forefront of the dishes. However, I found delicious vegetarian options that we truly enjoyed! You can avoid all fear of "bar food" here, they have a wonderfully curated menu!
Valbella at the Park
An elegant Northern Italian restaurant with its own Wine Room, surrounded by 1500 labels from all over the world. A private Scotch Room which features rich woods, beautiful floral arrangements, and dramatic lighting showcasing the selection of Scotches and Bourbons. This restaurant also offers Private Dining. Official Website
STK Steakhouse NYC - MIDTOWN
Offering Brunch, Lunch, Happy Hour, Date-Night Menus, and more! STK Midtown blends the modern steakhouse and a chic lounge into one, offering a fine dining experience with the superior quality of a traditional steakhouse. Located in the Bryant Park neighborhood, STK Midtown distinguishes itself with a vibrant mix of stylish dining and lounge spaces paired with signature menus and world-class service. Website & Location
more to do nearby
Explore other New York City attractions & Excursions we’re covering in this series!
Enjoy a Broadway show, a museum visit, or a helicopter ride high above the city! Find out what Times Square has to offer.
Go to: The Times Square Experience
Stop by New York’s floating Oyster Bar
Learn how you can visit the Statue of Liberty
Go to: The Midtown East Experience
Also Nearby: Grand Central Terminal
THANKS FOR EXPLORING
THE NEW YORK EXPERIENCE
(video recap)
The New York Experience 2022 - by Stuff Oui Love
We would like to thank the Courtyard New York Manhattan/Fifth Avenue for inviting us to feature their business!
#marriottbonvoypartner
STUFF OUI LOVE
The Essential Guide To Inspirational Travel
credits:
1st Camera:
Victoria Potter-Lands
2nd Camera:
Special thanks to Photographer Moe Alyasini for joining us on our insider’s look at the Empire State Building!
We would also like to thank the team at Empire State Realty Trust for allowing us this opportunity!
@Ashleymlands on Instagram