New York City is truly one of the most electric places in the world, and this birthday trip was nothing short of magical! From seeing Wicked on Broadway to discovering the best local eats and taking in the stunning views from one of the city’s tallest buildings, every moment was packed with excitement. Whether you’re planning your first NYC trip or looking for hidden gems beyond the tourist hotspots, this guide will walk you through my whirlwind three-day adventure.
Day 1: Sleeping In & Exploring the High Line
I kicked off the trip by doing something I never get to do—sleeping in until 10:30 AM! It was glorious. The crisp autumn air was flowing through my hotel window, and I just sat there, sipping coffee, soaking in the city sounds. There’s something about waking up in New York City that makes you feel like you’re in a movie.
Once I finally pulled myself away from my Carrie Bradshaw moment at the desk, it was time to explore the city! First stop? Chelsea Market. If you’re a foodie, this is a must-visit spot. Did you know that Nabisco (yes, the makers of Oreos!) originated here? I had no idea, but learning little tidbits like that makes travel so much fun. After grabbing some delicious breakfast at Jack’s Wife Freda, I strolled through the High Line, an urban park built on an old elevated railway. Disney fans—this is the real-life inspiration for the greenery outside AMC Theaters at Disney Springs!
Day 2: Broadway Dreams Come True – Seeing Wicked
The second day was all about Broadway! But first—food. New York is famous for its incredible restaurants, and I stopped at The Standard Grill for a pre-show cheese plate and a delicious green tea cocktail. The vibe was just right—cozy, stylish, and the perfect way to set the tone for a big night.
Then, it was time for Wicked at the Gershwin Theatre. Seeing a Broadway show has been a bucket-list item for years, and this performance absolutely lived up to the hype. The music was phenomenal, the humor was unexpected (why did no one tell me this show was funny?!), and the production value was next-level. The entire experience felt like a dream, and I cannot wait for the movie adaptation.
After the show, Times Square was calling! There’s something surreal about standing in the middle of that glowing, chaotic, iconic place. The best part? A chance encounter with Rachel Zegler, who was starring in Romeo & Juliet right next door. We’ve interacted online before, but meeting her in person was a completely unexpected, amazing birthday surprise!
Day 3: Iconic Views & A Fancy Farewell Dinner
The last full day in NYC was packed with food, sightseeing, and a very fancy dinner. The morning started with a delicious twice-baked pistachio croissant (yes, it was as good as it sounds) and a quick stop at Schmackary’s, a Broadway-favorite cookie shop. Fun fact—Schmackary’s is actually referenced in Only Murders in the Building! If you’re into Broadway culture, you need to visit this place.
Next, I took a long, peaceful walk through Central Park. It was stunning—golden leaves, crisp air, and the perfect mix of nature and city views. Then, it was off to The Strand Bookstore, where I picked up a mystery book (which turned out to be The Guest List—a book I already had on my reading list!). If you love books, this store is a must-visit.
To wrap up the trip, I had dinner at Peak at The Edge, one of the highest restaurants in the city. Sitting on the 101st floor, we watched the sunset over the skyline, enjoying a multi-course meal that felt straight out of a movie. The highlight? A melt-in-your-mouth filet mignon, followed by an incredible cheese plate.
Final Thoughts: NYC, You Have My Heart
This trip was everything I hoped for and more. I loved wandering through neighborhoods, finding hidden gems, eating my way through the city, and, of course, experiencing the magic of Broadway. If you’re thinking about visiting NYC for the first time—go!Three days wasn’t nearly enough, and I’m already planning my next trip (hopefully with the family in tow!).
Thanks for following along on this adventure. See you next time, New York! 💫✨🎭
