Travel bucket list idea:
New York, United States of America (USA)
Rivalled only by London, New York is one of the world’s top shopping destinations, with everything you’d expect from a mega metropolis – designer shops from every leading luxury brand, department stores steeped in tradition, independent boutiques, food and flea markets, and specialist shops making everything from cigars to hats. See our recommendations below for some of the best shops and shopping spots.
These days, the famous Fifth Avenue generally disappoints with the usual fare of showcase designer shops (now found everywhere), although the upscale department stores are still amongst the world’s best and offer excellent collections. Upper East Side’s Madison and Park Avenues are where the city’s richest denizens shop.
These main streets aside, New York’s extensive and varied shopping scene can largely be categorised by neighbourhoods:
The East Village is best for local, emerging designers, vintage or nearly-new designer – and cool nick-nacks. The Lower East Side is known for its trendy, up-and-coming designers and concept stores.
SoHo is great for trendy clothes and accessories, while the Meatpacking for the uber-cool runway designers and funky but expensive clothing.
The West Village is a treasure trove of unique and eclectic shops, featuring independent designers and vintage stores. Williamsburg in Brooklyn is another vibrant neighbourhood, with a plethora of hip boutiques offering everything from clothing to handmade jewellery and artisanal goods.
New York City, New York, United States of America (USA)
Experience
This iconic Fifth Avenue department store, founded in 1899, exudes an air elegance and sophistication. It’s renowned for curated collections of designer clothing, accessories, cosmetics, and home goods, and impeccable, personalised customer service.
Good for age: 18+
New York City, New York, United States of America (USA)
Experience
Known for its iconic ‘Big Brown Bag’ and bold, contemporary style, this legendary department store combines luxury with a more modern, youthful, trendsetting edge than its more traditional rivals. The store’s vast selection encompasses high-end designer brands, emerging labels, and exclusive collaborations.
Good for age: 18+
New York, United States of America (USA)
Art lovers and collectors should head to the enclave between 18th and 25th Streets and 10th and 11th Avenues, where hundreds of art galleries are crammed together, showcasing an eclectic mix of modern and contemporary art from wacky installations to chic photography.
Anyone from Andy Warhol or Basquiat to current prominent and emerging artists may feature, in a mix of the pointless and the memorably brilliant. You don’t have to buy – gallery-hopping browsers are welcome.
Good for age: 18+
New York, United States of America (USA)
Experience
Located where the High Line meets Chelsea and the Meatpacking District, this erstwhile warehouse is one of New York’s great foodie destinations. The rambling hall is crammed by casual restaurants, food kiosks, and speciality food shops.
Good for age: 18+
New York City, New York, United States of America (USA)
Experience
This magical haven for muggle fans of the beloved wizarding world spans three floors and over 20,000 square feet, making it the biggest such store in the world. Every possible Harry Potter artefact you could shake a wand at can be found here. Who needs Diagon Alley?
Good for age: 4+
New York City, New York, United States of America (USA)
Experience
This spanking new, cutting-edge development, boasts New York;’s largest and most prestigious mall. Spanning multiple levels, it includes a mix of high-end luxury brands, popular retailers, independent boutiques. The sheer number of shops justifies it’s inclusion on this list, but there’s nothing you won’t find in malls in other cities.
Good for age: 18+
New York City, New York, United States of America (USA)
Experience
Established in 1858, the world’s largest department store offers a comprehensive but affordable range of merchandise, including fashion, accessories, cosmetics, and home goods. The flagship store on Herald Square is a beloved landmark, hosting annual events like the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade.
Good for age: 18+
New York City, New York, United States of America (USA)
Experience
Opened in 1924, this legendary department store is a Fifth Avenue icon, selling high-end designer brands, spanning from clothing and accessories to beauty and home goods.
Good for age: 18+
New York City, New York, United States of America (USA)
Experience
This vibrant farmers’ market, nestled in the heart of the city, is the place to go for locally-sourced produce and artisanal goods. A strict ‘grow-your-own’ rule to promote a direct farm-to-table food chain ensures the freshest produce and that profits go directly back to those who grow and make it. A locals hangout, it’s a great place for soaking up some authentic ‘New Yorker’ atmosphere. Every Monday, Wednesday, Friday & Saturday.
Good for age: 18+
Duration: All day
When: Mon, Wed, Fri & Sat
Freq: weekly
New York City, New York, United States of America (USA)
This Upper West Side year-round bazaar is one of NYC’s oldest and largest marketplaces. Every Sunday, all year round, indoors and outdoors, up to 200 local merchants – local artists, designers, and antique/vintage dealers – come together to sell one-of-a-kind and limited edition art, antique watches, vintage collectables and fashion, handmade jewellery and furniture. Some market days have special themes – art, food or homewares for example. See the website’s events page for what’s on, when.
There’s a strong social mission to the market. As well as providing a much-needed, affordable outlet for local artists and artisans, 100% of Grand Bazaar NYC’s profits are donated to four local public schools, benefiting over 2,000 children.
Good for age: 8+
