Bagels, Broadway & a Little Bit of Rain:
4 Days in New York That Gave Me Sore Feet and a Full Heart
Ah, New York City—the city that never sleeps… which explains why, after four days there, I needed a nap that lasted a week.
It’s been a hot minute since I’ve written about travel—and honestly, I’m not sure how that happened. Somewhere between unpacking emotional baggage and, well… actual baggage, my travel stories took a little backseat. But don’t worry, your girl is back, passport in hand and stories ready to spill.
Because as much as I love writing about healing, self-growth, and all the beautiful chaos in between… there’s just something magical about a good trip, sore feet, wrong subway rides, and overpriced coffee in iconic places.
So let’s pick up where we left off, shall we? Starting with a quick four-day getaway to a place that never disappoints: New York City.
We flew in from Miami bright and early (because nothing says “vacation” like waking up at 3 a.m. to make it to the airport before the coffee shops even open). We landed in NYC at 10 a.m., and after a scenic Uber ride full of honking and near-death lane changes (the NYC welcome package), we arrived at our hotel right by Times Square.
And they let us check in early!! (We love you Marriott Bonvoy) We dropped our bags, gave ourselves a quick mental pep talk, and headed straight for food—because let’s be honest, our last proper meal had been airport snacks.
Day 1: Brunch, Broadway Vibes & a Little Sinatra Magic
We found a spot called Carnegie Diner & Café, just a few steps away. It was Sunday brunch time, aka everyone and their dog was already there. But the food looked promising and the options nearby were either “wait in line” or “risk a bad bagel,” so we waited. Totally worth it. Big portions, fluffy pancakes, eggs done right. Gold stars all around.
From there, we waddled over to Times Square because yes, I’m a tourist and I love it. I still remember the first time I stepped into that chaotic mess of neon signs and humans dressed like knock-off superheroes. It was the first city I visited in the U.S., and Times Square still makes me feel like I’m walking through a movie.
That night, we had tickets for Birdland Jazz Club—which, if you’ve never been, is an absolute vibe. You don’t get assigned seats, it’s first come, first served, so we rolled in early and landed a great spot. Tony DeSare was performing his Sinatra and Beyond show and let me tell you… swoon. Pure class, smooth vocals, and just enough swing to make you forget you were running on three hours of sleep. We loved it so much, we’re going again when he comes to Fort Lauderdale in April.
We strolled back through the glowing chaos of Times Square, and I sang Sinatra songs the whole way. Adriano and his dad were thrilled. (I think.)
Day 2: Louis Vuitton, Dinos, and a Very Sad Rooftop Plan
We started our day with breakfast at the hotel before heading to the Louis Vuitton Café (yes, that’s a thing and yes, it’s as bougie as it sounds). I had tried to get reservations online—spoiler: you basically need to be a magician. Apparently, spots open up 21 days in advance at midnight and vanish in seconds. We had been before Christmas and loved it, so this time we stood in line, hoping the pastry gods would be kind. They were. The chocolate entremet? Still life-changing.
Then we walked to Central Park, making our way toward the Natural History Museum—because what’s more fun than staring at massive dinosaur bones with a childlike sense of awe? I even video called my nephew Bogyi, who screamed “T-Rex!” and made my day.
Somewhere in the chaos of the day, we also popped into the Harry Potter Store. If you’re a fan, go. If you’re not… go anyway, for the butterbeer ice cream and wand envy. We probably walked 20,000 steps that day—my feet were crying.
We wanted to end the night with a drink at 230 Fifth Rooftop Bar—it turns into a cozy winter wonderland with heated igloos and boozy hot chocolate. But the weather had other plans. It was pouring. Like, apocalyptic pouring. The rooftop was closed. I still had my hot chocolate. Because priorities.
Day 3: Touristing at Full Speed
This was the day I put on my fanny pack (mentally) and went full sightseeing mode. I got us Sightseeing Passes, which I highly recommend if you’re planning to hit a bunch of attractions. You pay once, and then you can use it for guided tours, museums, landmarks, etc. Budget-friendly and makes you feel like a VIP… kinda.
We did a 5-hour bus tour that included a few walking stops. Our first one was The High Line, which was… closed. Maintenance. Of course. We pivoted and headed to Chelsea Market, where we spent more time debating where to eat than actually eating. It’s foodie heaven but also decision-making hell. I wanted everything.
Then we hopped on the Staten Island Ferry to see the Statue of Liberty. Plot twist: you don’t actually go to the statue. You just awkwardly admire her from a distance, wave, and keep sailing.
Next stop: The Edge—a glass-floor observation deck where you can face your fear of heights with a beautiful view of Manhattan. 10/10 recommend, but maybe don’t look straight down.
This was actually my first time visiting the 9/11 Memorial, and I wasn’t fully prepared for how deeply it would affect me. There’s a certain stillness there that feels sacred—right in the middle of a city that’s always buzzing. The twin reflecting pools are powerful and humbling, with the names of the victims etched all around. Standing there, reading those names, I felt an overwhelming mix of sadness, reverence, and deep respect.
What moved me the most was the Survivor Tree—a pear tree that somehow endured the devastation, was nursed back to health, and now stands tall at the site as a symbol of hope and resilience. It’s just a tree, but in that setting, it feels like so much more. A quiet reminder that even after the unimaginable, healing is possible.
At night, we visited One World Observatory to see the city glow from above. The views were stunning, but the real magic happened later at Bo Peep Cocktail & Piano Bar. Think moody lighting, live music, great food—and yes, the servers actually sing with the pianist. I may or may not have joined in and treated the entire bar to a very passionate rendition of Fly Me to the Moon. You’re welcome, strangers.
Day 4: Bryant Park, Brooklyn & a Classic “Oops, Wrong Train” Ending
Our last day was picture perfect—sunny, crisp, and exactly how you want to remember New York. We started it slow with coffee in Bryant Park, then took the subway to Brooklyn for a little exploring and bridge-admiring.
For lunch, we went to Au Cheval, a burger joint that people had raved about—and now I get it. Hands down the best burger I’ve ever had in my life. If you’re ever in NYC, go. Don’t ask questions. Just go.
We took the subway back to our hotel for our 3 p.m. checkout. Except… we got on the wrong train. And it was an express. So we basically time-traveled straight back to Brooklyn. But hey, what’s a New York trip without at least one MTA adventure?
We made it back (barely), grabbed our bags, and headed to the airport feeling happy, tired, and totally in love with New York all over again.
Would I do it again? Absolutely. With better shoes.
And maybe an extra day just to recover from the walking.