This week we are exploring iconic New York’s places, some more well known than others, but each in its own way is timeless. From foodie heaven to book-nerd paradise to jazz-lover’s mecca, we have a short round up of five great things to see and do this weekend — or any weekend— in New York.
Grand Central Terminal
Grand Central Terminal is one of the nation’s oldest and currently busiest train stations— but what most commuters miss is the stunning architecture of the Beaux Arts building that houses the many different lines that run across the country. The building has evolved over the past hundred years, but the famed zodiac ceiling mural remains a treat for visitors who look up as they move through the station. Also notable is the four-faced opal clock at the center of the Main Concourse. It is often the meeting place for New Yorkers, and has long been a staple of the station.
Restaurant lovers will enjoy exploring the options in the station with everything from the famed Grand Central Oyster Bar to the takeout pleasures of the Northern Food Hall to the Grand Central Market that sells gourmet bits of deliciousness.
89 E 42nd St.
New York, New York, 10017
(212) 340-2583
The Morgan Library
Don’t let the name fool you, The Morgan Library is much, much more than a library. The building was originally the private library of financier J. Pierpont Morgan. Since its expansion by famed architect Renzo Piano, it has grown in scope. There are currently over twenty spaces within the historic venue: galleries, libraries, performance spaces and more. A soaring central courtyard connects the buildings.
Among the library treasures are rare artifacts, paintings, and books. Of particular note are the museum’s twenty three copies of the original Declaration of Independence and Mozart’s handwritten score of the Haffner Symphony. But the engaging contents don’t end there and the Library merits a visit to discover more of its treasures first hand. Tickets are available online.
225 Madison Ave.
New York, New York, 10016
United States
(212) 685-0008
Smorgasburg
This pick is rather contemporary by comparison to the others on this list. But it’s a hot spot for discovering new chefs, as well as new flavors and food trends. Smorgasburg is an artisanal food market with roughly 100 vendors and an audience into the tens of thousands over the course of a weekend. It is an open air food market that runs from April through October with Saturdays in Williamsburg and Sundays in Prospect Park. An indoor version operates at the Atlantic Center. Admission is free, but the yummy food is not. Expect to tickle your tastebuds with variety that ranges from Korean hot dogs to pink fig tarts.
90 Kent Ave
Brooklyn, New York, 11211
United States
(718) 928-6603
Blue Note Jazz Club
The Blue Note has been a progressive jazz club in New York for decades. Blue Note preserves the history of jazz while simultaneously nurturing its future seven nights a week. This is the place where aficionados come to hear new talent as well as legends play. Legends such as Sarah Vaughan, Dizzy Gillespie, and Ray Charles have performed on the Blue Note Stage, as well as contemporary jazz musicians, Wynton Marsalis, Keith Jarrett, Chris Botti and more. The setting is intimate and dark, as one would hope and expect. Music happens every night at 8 and 10:30pm with additional series on weekends.
131 W. 3rd Street
New York, New York, 10012
United States
1-212-475-8592
The Met Cloisters
The Met Cloisters is, as one might expect from the name, a quiet getaway in north Manhattan. It is also America’s sole museum dedicated to art and architecture of the Middle Ages. The Cloisters is part of the Metropolitan Museum of Art, and its collection is expansive with more than 2,000 artworks and artifacts from Medieval Europe. It’s a treat to meander through the five medieval-inspired cloisters that are incorporated into the rather modern museum edifice looking out on the Hudson river. Stepping back in time, the collection invites visitors to explore the victories, defeats and daily life of the Medieval europeans.
99 Margaret Corbin Drive
New York, New York, 10040
United States
(212) 923-3700
About The Lombardy Hotel
The Lombardy Hotel’s timeless elegance is iconic to Midtown Manhattan. Our rooms are spacious, comfortable and thoughtfully designed to make you feel at home. We look forward to hosting you on your next visit to New York City.
*Due to Covid-19 our restaurant, cafe and gym will remain closed for a time.