Kristen Kellogg, a filmmaker, digital storyteller, and travel expert shares with us her 7 best NYC tips for exploring New York City. There is nothing better than learning with travel experts, right?
We love all different types of interviews and the ones with travel experts are always quite amusing. We not only love all the tips, but we also end up finding out more secrets about our own beautiful concrete jungle.
Read about Kristen’s explorations and see her 7 best NYC tips for exploring New York City.
Exploring rugged to refined, filmmaker, digital storyteller, and travel expert Kristen Kellogg has designed her life for life on the road. Her Wanderlust Website + Content Creation Agency, Border Free Travels, produces and shares highly engaging lifestyle stories and brand campaigns through film, photography, and innovative media tied to travel.
In addition Kristen’s work and words have been featured in AFAR, MSN, Refinery 29, Daily Mail, Yahoo, and Travel Channel, and Islands Magazine, among others. Some of her recent clients include Skype, Thailand Tourism, The Outer Banks, Visit California, and Rosetta Stone for whom she produced a new travel video series.
On this adventure, Kristen journeys through Mérida, Mexico getting “Lost With Locals” while touring markets with a local chef, practicing Spanish phrases with strangers, and even picks up some local dance moves.
Kristen lives on Nantucket, has an obsession with cheese, loves talking to strangers – in person and on Instagram, and feels most at home when she’s not.
A Nantucket Island resident, when she’s not on the road, she finds inspiration by literally running around exploring her own backyard. She frequently visits NYC between travels in and out of the country.
So, take a look at Kristen Kellogg 7 best NYC tips for exploring New York City:
Helicopter Tours
“The best views of Manhattan I’ve ever seen were in a helicopter – doors off! Everyone should do this once in their life – I’d go again in a NYC beat.
And we have to agree with Kristen! As we’ve said before, we know we are obsessed with New York City and one of the best views of the city is from high up in the air!
Plus, it’s incredible to see our concrete jungle and all the boroughs from this perspective.
Take a look at this Helicopter Tour and book now!
The William Vale
“Sunset drinks and apps at the Westlight atop The William Vale hotel. This is the best view looking back on the city!”
Brooklyn is certainly the most up and coming area in New York and so much is going on, on that side of the bridge. New restaurants, stores, nightclubs, coffee shops, events, etc!
The William Vale is one of the newest additions to the neighborhood and has become an immediate hotspot.
Its rooftop offers a priceless 360º view where you can see the 5 boroughs.
So, if you want to stay in one of the trendiest hotels, in a super cool location and mix with an energetic and stylish crowd…then this is the place for you!
Location: 111 North 12th Street
Matcha Bar
“If you have a thing for matcha and Instagram, you’ll find your prefect match at Matcha Bar, with two addresses in Manhattan.”
Founded by the brothers, Max and Graham Fortgang, in 2014, Matcha Bar is the perfect drink if you’re looking for energy, focus, paired with powerful antioxidants.
As they explained, they “became fixated on the idea of bringing this ancient tradition into the modern metropolis they call home”. And they did!
Their matcha is sourced directly from an independent family farm in Nishio, Japan.
Miss Paradis
“I love Miss Paradis in SoHo – prefect for catching up with a friend or two. Nosh on small plates and sip on rose — it adorns the walls of the place. I love the burrata!”
Miss Paradis opened just a while ago, in November of 2016. The place is beautifully designed by Philippe Starck and serves super healthy, seasonal food. Moreover, the dishes are works of art and creatively presented.
They are well-known for their Rosé labels, so we do recommend trying the cocktails on their list. And, as they say: “don’t expect to skip dessert!”
“Miss Paradis is a timeless temple to the glory of the fruits of Nature.” ~ Philippe Starck, Créateur
Location: 47 Prince Street
Takoyaki
In New York city, you’ll find surprises around every corner, especially when it comes to culinary treats, such as this popular Japanese snack called “Takoyaki.” What is the most interesting street food you’ve tried?
Posted by Rosetta Stone on Thursday, December 1, 2016
“I stumbled on this gem of a Takoyaki stand on Doyers Street in Chinatown. You’ll get hungry watching the video I made (above).”
If you go to New York, you have to be opened to trying the different street food you’ll find along your way. Plus, if they are literally a hole in the wall, it’s even better.
Hidden in one of Chinatown’s most famous streets, Takoyaki opens only for a few hours during the weekends, so you need to be sure to pass by.
What to try? Maybe a little of everything! Their octopus dumpling is on the top of our list. Prices are super fair, so don’t worry.
Hours: Saturday & Sunday: 12pm – 6pm
Location: 5 Doyers Street
KIIN Thai Eatery
“I’ve traveled three times extensively through Thailand and always have a tough time finding those same tastes in the states. If you want authentic Thai food, KIIN Thai Eatery is IT! Every bite will have your mouth watering. This place is best for atlas for people – you can order half of the menu this way and try it all.”
KIIN, in the Greenwich Village, in Manhattan, serves authentic central and northern Thai cuisine, with recipes that dates back centuries, but are still current.
Ingredients are all very fresh and tasty, challenging everyone’s taste buds and offering a true Thai experience.
Location: 36 East 8th Street
Sisley Spa
“If you’re in need of a time out, stop at the Sisley Spa in the Rosewood Hotel and treat yourself to a unique treatment – the Phyto-Aromatic Replumping Youth Facial with Rose. The esthetician gently moves rose quartz around your face – so relaxing I fell asleep.”
Not really a “behind the scenes” experience, but nonetheless, super worth exploring, specially after a long and tiring day exploring New York.
Moreover, it’s located inside The Carlyle hotel, in the Upper East Side of Manhattan.
Treatments are customized according to you needs and desires, so you’ll be sure to leave completely relaxed and ready for more NYC adventures!
Location: The Carlyle – 35 East 76th Street – 3rd Floor
Thank you, Kristen, for being part of our Insider Interviews and for sharing your 7 best NYC tips for exploring New York City!
Photo Credits: Courtesy of Belly Adventure, Marky_Marc13 and all the venues.
*Last Update on April/2020.*
