Larger-than-life billboards, the collective flicker and flash of neon lights, mesmerizing digital screens and a famously atmospheric spirit sum up the allure of the bustling Times Square. Christened after the New York Times, which moved its office to this location in 1924, the vibrant milieu of this busy square deeply echoes the city's ethos. Riveting Broadway marquees, a diverse set of shops, restaurants of every type and stripe, and towering buildings beyond vie for attention. Somewhere amid a sea of tourists who are likely making their way to the iconic red steps for panoramic views of this spectacle, a big crimson tourist bus inches its way toward the next monumental attraction. Meanwhile, longstanding fixtures of this place contribute to its hugely legendary status, from the Coca-Cola sign, the colossal M&Ms World store and Times Square Studios, to the TKTS booth, the Hard Rock Cafe, and Planet Hollywood.
At Stray Vintage in Queens, there aren't many things you can't find. Containing a large selection of secondhand knickknacks, trinkets, home decorations, and other miscellanea, Stray is a favorite among New Yorkers always looking for those one-of-a-kind items. Many of the items featured in the store are created by local artists and craftsman, so you'll feel good putting money back into the local community. Visit the store today to find that special item you never knew you were missing.
Since 1927, this East Village gem has delighted bibliophiles with its impressive collection of new, used, rare, and discontinued books. The illustrious shop boasts an impressive 18 miles of books spread over its three floors, promising printed works for every tasted. Used-book lovers will find several specialty sections, including a notable selection of discounted art books, and others will enjoy browsing review copies of recently published works in the basement. Strand Book Store also carries antique items and novelty merchandise guaranteed to put a smile on any bookworm's face. Keep an eye out for discounts and sales when you drop by to experience this literary spectacle, as the beloved bookstore does its best to create special offers for its loyal patrons whenever possible.
The zigzagging streets and charming brownstones of Greenwich Village have a far more laid back atmosphere than most neighborhoods in the city. The center of New York's gay and student communities lies here, with a variety of funky shopping and nightlife including jazz, rock and dance clubs, restaurants, bars and cafés. By the early 1900s, the Village had fully established itself as the center of radical thinking in the United States. Famous reformers, artists and intellectuals all gathered here and many still do. Do not miss a visit to Washington Square Park, where you will experience the nexus of it all!
Pearl River Mart offers an amazing selection of Asian ceramics, kitchenware, art, toys, furniture and clothing. Choose from a variety of sake sets, or purchase a Japanese Sumi brush and start a new hobby. Prices are terrific, making this a popular spot to look for everything from paper lanterns to bamboo plants to lucky cats.
The South Street Seaport is an architectural excerpt from the city's long and eventful history, with its cobblestone streets flanked on either side by some of downtown Manhattan's oldest commercial buildings. The Historic District is centered around the point where Fulton Street ends at the East River, an enchanting collection of 19th-century buildings and warehouses, that stands in stark contrast to the skyscrapers of the adjacent Financial District. The neighborhood's history as a bustling port resonates in its distinctive, nautical character, lending the restaurants and cafes that cluster here a jovial vibe. A bevy of shops and quaint boutiques also make this a top-notch shopping destination, with the mall at Pier 17 serving as the epicenter of the South Street Seaport's offerings. Sweeping views of the East River and the Brooklyn Bridge await at Pier 15, while antique ships bob at the port by the museum. Also of interest are the Titanic Memorial Lighthouse and the old Fulton Fish Market.
This store located in Greenwich Village features exquisite antique furniture and earthenware for the home from Provence. Pottery, decorations, weather vanes and much more fill this tiny Le Fanion in the West Village. There is oven ware, artwork and crystal chandeliers-all of which you are not likely to find elsewhere in New York City. The store gives off a warm, cozy glow, much like the landscape of the south of France.
Rudy's Music in Soho specializes in guitars and stringed instruments, from ukuleles and bass guitars to mandolins and Flying-V's. Rickenbacker, Epiphone, Gibson, Seagull, Taylor are a few brands that are represented on the shelves. However, the owner himself, Rudy Pensa has been making his own professional guitars since 1982 and has been tinkering with the ax since he was seven-years old. You can purchase these guitars here and in fact, some of the best guitar players in the world have used them, from Eric Clapton to Mark Knopfler. Overall, this shop is for the professional's professional, and sure you could visit Guitar Center uptown, but the chance of running into a guitar hero is much more likely here.
Situated on Mulberry Street in New York, Yu and Me Books is an independent bookstore. Set in Chinatown, this cozy bookstore offers a fantastic selection of books across various genres. They even offer a selection of refreshing drinks like tea, coffee, and wine. Lined with books and pictures, this bookstore features several cozy corners where patrons can sit and immerse themselves in their favorite book. They even sell a range of audiobooks on their online store. This warm and friendly bookstore is a great place to visit for bibliophiles in the area.
For an enormous variety of fine artwork, including posters, paintings, photographs, limited editions, and artisanal jewelry, Sunflower Fine Art Gallery is an ideal destination. Custom framing services fit the perfect frame - from nations around the world - to your piece of art or memorabilia. Art delivery, installation, or shipping within a reasonable time frame are also available.