An Unforgettable Weekend in New York City: Living the Big Apple Dream
For as long as I can remember, New York City has existed as a vibrant, almost mythical entity in my mind. I’d seen the sprawling metropolis probably a thousand times – its iconic skyline gracing countless movie screens, its bustling streets brought to life through television series like Friends, Sex and the City, and Suits, and its dynamic energy captured in countless newspaper photographs. The allure of the Big Apple never waned; in fact, with every re-run and every new glimpse, its charm only deepened. Its bright, ambitious lights, emanating from a city thousands of miles away, called out to me, inspiring daydreams of one day experiencing its grandeur firsthand, in the flesh.
The moment we moved to Washington D.C., a mere four-hour bus ride from New York, a surge of excitement coursed through me. I knew then that my long-held dream was finally within reach. The opportunity solidified when our dear friend Vennie – a brilliant Bulgarian girl we’d first met during our student exchange in Mannheim, Germany – generously offered for us to stay at her apartment in NYC’s Upper West Side. I was absolutely ecstatic; Juan and I seized the chance, eagerly planning a memorable weekend getaway to the city that never sleeps.
Just two weeks prior, with spirits high and anticipation bubbling, Juan and I packed our bags for a weekend’s adventure. We hopped on the metro to D.C.’s historic Union Station and boarded our BestBus to New York. The journey itself was filled with excited chatter and planning, each mile bringing us closer to a lifelong aspiration. Four and a half hours later, around 11:30 PM on that bustling Friday night, our bus pulled over somewhere near the glittering spectacle of Times Square. Stepping off the bus, the contrast with D.C. was immediate and striking. Unlike D.C., which often feels calm, collected, and spacious with its lower skyline and broader avenues, New York pulsed with an electric energy. It throbbed with life, a vibrant tapestry of towering skyscrapers whose lights twinkled like countless stars in the night sky. Despite the fatigue from the journey, my eyes were wide with wonder as I breathed in the crisp night air, taking in the endless stream of people and traffic moving with purpose to destinations unknown. It was an immersive, exhilarating sensory overload, and even in that initial rush, NYC managed to steal my heart, this time, face to face, in all its magnificent chaos.
Exploring the Upper West Side and a Cherished Reunion
Moving with the same brisk pace as the New Yorkers around us, we quickly navigated our way to the subway. Boarding the number 1 line, we headed north, the rhythmic rumble of the train underscoring our excitement. We disembarked at 110th Street, a short walk from Vennie’s apartment. A quick buzz of the doorbell, and the door opened to reveal our wonderful friend. The embrace that followed was tight and heartfelt – it was truly amazing to reunite after almost eight years! Our last encounter had been during our student exchange in Mannheim, a charming university town an hour south of Frankfurt, Germany, where our friendship had first blossomed amidst academic pursuits and European adventures.
Vennie, ever the thoughtful and gracious person I remembered, had anticipated our late arrival and potential hunger. She had thoughtfully prepared a delightful spread of grapes, cheese, crackers, and hummus, a perfect light supper for weary travelers. We settled comfortably on her couch, sharing stories and laughter, catching up on eight years of life over the next few hours. The conversation flowed effortlessly, a testament to enduring friendship and shared memories. Finally, exhausted but incredibly happy, we retired for the night. (Vennie, with her characteristic generosity, had insisted we take her master bedroom while she slept on the couch, an act of kindness I remain eternally grateful for. Thank you, sweetie!)
Saturday morning dawned bright and beautiful, with the sun gently peeking through the blinds, painting the Upper West Side in golden hues. We were eager not to waste a single moment of our precious New York weekend. After a quick, energizing breakfast of yogurt, fruit, and nuts, we joined Vennie for a stroll to her alma mater, the prestigious Columbia University, just a five-minute walk from her apartment. She proudly showed us the impressive neoclassical architecture of the library, her Mathematics building where she spent countless hours, and shared fascinating insights into student life and the rich history of the institution. The sprawling campus, with its grand buildings, verdant quads, and scholarly atmosphere, offered a serene contrast to the bustling city streets, providing a tranquil glimpse into another intellectual facet of New York life.
From Elevated Parks to Bohemian Streets: Chelsea, West Village & Soho
After our inspiring tour of Columbia, Vennie headed back to her apartment, leaving Juan and me to continue our grand exploration of New York City. Our next destination was the renowned High Line, an elevated linear park built on a former New York Central Railroad spur. It was a bustling hub, teeming with both tourists and locals enjoying the unique urban green space, offering stunning views of the city’s architecture and the Hudson River. Walking amidst the beautiful landscaping and public art installations felt like traversing a living, breathing art exhibit high above the street, a tranquil yet vibrant oasis in the heart of the concrete jungle.
From the High Line, we descended into the vibrant energy of Chelsea Market. This industrial-chic food hall and shopping mall, housed in a former Nabisco factory, was a feast for the senses. The aroma of freshly baked bread mingled with exotic spices, and the vibrant displays of gourmet foods, artisanal crafts, and unique boutiques invited endless browsing. Every corner held a new discovery, from fresh seafood to artisan chocolates. We found a cozy spot at Friedman’s, a highly-rated, gluten-free friendly restaurant, where we savored a delicious brunch, fueling up for the rest of our day’s adventures and soaking in the lively market atmosphere.
With satisfied appetites, we continued our journey south, eager to immerse ourselves in the distinct charm of West Village and Soho. The sun shone brilliantly, making it a truly gorgeous day for exploring on foot. In the West Village, we ambled along picturesque cobblestone streets lined with charming brownstones, independent boutiques, and cozy cafes, soaking in the bohemian atmosphere that has long attracted artists and writers. Every corner turned revealed another picturesque scene, a testament to the neighborhood’s enduring character and timeless appeal. Just adjacent, Soho captivated us with its iconic cast-iron architecture, high-end fashion boutiques, and vibrant art galleries. It felt like being a child in a candy store, with so much beauty and unique energy at every turn. Each neighborhood offered a unique narrative of New York’s cultural mosaic, from the historic charm of the Village to the chic artistry of Soho.
A Culinary Journey Through Little Italy and Chinatown
As the afternoon progressed, our exploration led us further downtown, into the rich cultural tapestry of Little Italy and Chinatown. In Little Italy, we were greeted by the aroma of garlic and tomatoes, the sight of vibrant red, white, and green flags, and charming cafes spilling onto the sidewalks. The atmosphere here felt distinctly European, a nod to its deep immigrant roots and culinary heritage. Moving into Chinatown, the transition was palpable; the streets became a riot of color, sound, and scent, filled with bustling markets, traditional herbal shops, and incredible eateries. It felt like stepping into a different world entirely, a vibrant microcosm of Chinese culture right in the heart of Manhattan.
While wandering through Chinatown’s lively streets, we serendipitously stumbled upon the small yet famously authentic H K Wonton Garden. The blustery weekend wind had created a noticeable chill, making the prospect of a warm, comforting meal incredibly appealing. I, with joyful anticipation, greedily devoured a large bowl of their exquisite dumpling soup. Each delicate dumpling, swimming in a savory, aromatic broth, was a perfect antidote to the cold, warming me from the inside out. Despite the biting wind, which made us long for the indoors, the vibrant energy of these neighborhoods was infectious, urging us to continue our adventure and soak in every moment of the unique cultural immersion.
Reflecting on History and Indulging in Gluten-Free Delights
Our Saturday explorations would not have been complete without paying homage to the solemn yet powerful grounds of the World Trade Center and the financial heart of the city, Wall Street. We headed there as the late afternoon sun began its descent, casting long shadows across the towering buildings. The World Trade Center site, with its reflecting pools and the poignant 9/11 Memorial, evoked a profound sense of remembrance and resilience. It was a moment of quiet contemplation amidst the city’s relentless pace, a powerful reminder of history. A short walk away, Wall Street bustled with a different kind of energy. The imposing architecture of the New York Stock Exchange and the iconic Charging Bull statue stood as symbols of global finance and ambition, offering a fascinating contrast to the contemplative memorial and a glimpse into the economic engine of the world.
That evening, Vennie joined us for a highly anticipated dinner at Senza Gluten, a renowned Italian restaurant celebrated for its entirely gluten-free menu. Juan and I had heard rave reviews and were incredibly excited to experience it ourselves. The restaurant’s warm, inviting ambiance immediately put us at ease, creating a perfect setting for a delightful meal. We began our culinary journey with delectable fungi bruschetta, bursting with earthy flavors, followed by a comforting homemade chicken soup. For our main courses, Juan chose the potato gnocchi, which arrived bathed in a rich, savory mushroom sauce – a truly exquisite dish with perfectly tender dumplings. I opted for the classic fettuccine bolognese, a perfectly balanced and flavorful rendition, while Vennie enjoyed spaghetti with juicy meatballs. Of course, no Italian meal is complete without dessert. We indulged in a perfectly crafted tiramisu and an espresso creme brûlée, both incredibly satisfying and rich. Every single dish was exceptionally delicious, showcasing how incredible gluten-free cuisine can be, but the gnocchi stood out as a particular highlight, so good it inspired me to try making my own back in D.C. (stay tuned for that recipe!). We left the restaurant extremely full, but utterly content and happy, our palates delighted by the exceptional meal and our spirits lifted by great company.
A Sunday Stroll through Williamsburg, Brooklyn
Sunday morning, eager to experience a different side of New York, we decided to venture out of Manhattan and explore Williamsburg, Brooklyn. This “quirky chic” neighborhood is renowned for its eclectic mix of vintage shops, a thriving arts scene, an abundance of trendy bars and restaurants, and unique clothing boutiques. The journey across the bridge offered new perspectives of the Manhattan skyline, a sight that never ceases to impress. Upon arrival, we were immediately enveloped by Williamsburg’s distinctive atmosphere – a blend of industrial grit and creative flair, with vibrant street art adorning brick walls and independent businesses thriving on every block. It felt like a youthful, energetic counterpoint to Manhattan’s grandiosity, a place where creativity and individuality flourish.
The day was quite cold, and after a refreshing walk exploring Williamsburg’s unique offerings, we gratefully tucked ourselves into Fabiane’s to warm up. This casual dining spot proved to be a delightful refuge from the chill. I savored an absolutely amazing salmon burger, perfectly cooked and bursting with flavor, served with fresh greens. Juan and I happily polished off a generous serving of gluten-free waffles. These golden-brown delights were topped with a medley of fresh berries, rich whipped cream, and a generous drizzle of maple syrup, providing a sweet and satisfying end to our Brooklyn adventure. The cozy atmosphere, friendly service, and delicious food made it an ideal spot to recharge before heading back to the vibrant pulse of Manhattan.
Last Glimpses: East Village, Fifth Avenue, and Union Square
By the time our delicious lunch in Williamsburg concluded, we had only a couple of precious hours left before we needed to catch our bus back to D.C. Eager to make the most of our remaining time, we took the train back to Manhattan and disembarked in the vibrant East Village. Known for its punk rock history, independent spirit, and lively nightlife, the East Village offered another unique flavor of New York, with its charming boutiques, vintage record stores, and diverse eateries lining every block. From there, we embarked on a brisk walk all the way up to iconic Fifth Avenue, marveling at the grandeur of its luxury shops and historic buildings, including a distant glimpse of the majestic Empire State Building. Our final Manhattan stop was the bustling Union Square, a historic park and a hub of activity, where we absorbed the dynamic atmosphere of street performers, intense chess players, and local vendors, a vibrant microcosm of the city’s diverse population.
Until Next Time, New York!
Ideally, I would have loved to extend our stay in New York City for at least ten days, allowing us to delve deeper into its countless neighborhoods, iconic landmarks, and hidden attractions. However, with Juan needing to return to work the following day, our incredible weekend came to a close, and we boarded our bus back to D.C. Two days, while exhilarating and packed with unforgettable moments, is simply far too short for a city of such immense size, diversity, and intrigue. I felt like we had only managed to scratch the surface, catching mere glimpses of its endless wonders and diverse cultures. This brief but impactful visit has only solidified our resolve: we are absolutely, unequivocally going to return to the Big Apple. There’s so much more to explore, so many more stories to uncover, and countless more memories to make in this truly magnificent metropolis. New York City, you have our hearts, and we’ll be back!
In the meantime, I sincerely hope you’ve enjoyed this virtual tour through our New York City adventure and the accompanying photos!