As the famous American painter Georgia O’Keefe once said, “One can’t paint New York as it is, but rather as it is felt.” Whether it’s the eccentric streets and tasteful eateries that apprehend the mind, the city is certainly the heart and soul of New York.
Growing up just 45 minutes east of New York City, my homeland is Long Island, the region that’s not exactly the city but is very close. Now, would I consider myself a native New Yorker? The short answer would be no, but my endless visits growing up as “just a train ride away” have gifted the city to make up a small piece of the puzzle, better known as my heart.
Whether you’re going for a couple of days, starting a new job or buying a one-way ticket and never looking back, here is my love letter to “the city that never sleeps” you should keep ever so safely in your back pocket.
Dear Radio City Music Hall,
Thank you for being my first glimpse into the shimmering world of entertainment. You are more than just a stage and some red curtains, but a home to so many Broadway shows that have touched the lives of so many people. Seeing “Wicked” and the Rockettes for the first time at such a magical place will always be a core memory that truly “defies gravity.”
Dear Empire State Building,
New York and the Empire State Building are more than just a “state of mind,” but rather a feeling. When my 16th birthday rolled around, I knew exactly what I wanted to do. My one request was to climb to the top of the Empire State Building. I asked, and my parents delivered. The glowing specks of each building created a forest full of lights and a world up above that I could never have imagined.
Dear LAVO,
You were my first ever NYC clubbing experience. I can’t say I enjoyed you too well, but from what my friend turning 21 can remember (or lack thereof), definitely did. That birthday weekend will sure be one for the books. Draining our bank accounts with Ubers from one side of Manhattan to the other and overpriced drinks were the silent villains of our weekend. If clubbing is your scene, I totally recommend it, if not … run.
Dear Chelsea Market,
Oh, what a hidden gem you are (well maybe not to NYC residents), but to me, you were an underground treasure that had me wondering why I hadn’t been to the Chelsea market sooner. My first visit was just two years ago and it still stands as my favorite place in the meatpacking district. With lights lining the arches and stores that you can get lost in for hours, rain or shine this indoor capsule-like market is everything and more.
Dear Bryant Park,
In the center of Midtown (no pun intended), lays Bryant Park. A chameleon of many identities. While being ever so green in the spring where New Yorkers gather for their morning coffee or picnic in the park soon transforms into a winter wonderland of ice skating and hot chocolate stands during Christmastime. Some of my favorite memories with friends and family are all thanks to beloved Bryant Park.
Dear Rockefeller Tree,
I hate to crush your New York City dreams, but you’re kind of just a tree. However, Mr. Rockefeller, you are certainly a staple for Christmas in New York. I’ll never forget seeing you for the first time. My eight-year-old self felt like the tree was touching the moon. The colored lights glisten like water or silk, and you know what they say – “There’s nothing like Christmas in New York.”
Dear Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade,
You are more spectacular in person than on TV (shocker). Although my 10-year-old, four-foot self couldn’t see much, it was by far the best Thanksgiving of my childhood. My cousins and I made this holiday our b*tch. Those massive balloons left our jaws on the floor, and not even the hotel manager could stop us from playing manhunt all over the hotel.
Dear Yankee Stadium,
Home to the best New York baseball team is Yankee Stadium (so sorry Mets). Located right amid the Bronx, growing up it was always a good day when it was a game day. The turnover from visits with my family to my 20-year-old self riding the subway with friends during the summer is as nostalgic as it gets. As Derek Jeter would say, “My office is at Yankee Stadium. Yes, dreams do come true.” Need I say more?
Dear NY Subway,
You will never not be confusing. Will I avoid you at all costs? Yes. Will I walk as many blocks as possible instead? Also yes. The subway is as New York as it gets, and the sights you see down there are not for the weak. My uncle used to bet money on my cousins and me for whoever could count the most rats in the tracks. Ew.
Dear Madison Square Garden,
The sacred place where I became a true Rangers fan. “No quit New York” is the religion in my household. It has been an absolute pleasure to grow up taking the train in and watching the Rangers play at MSG. Your pizza slices that take up two plates and fountain drinks bigger than my head are what makes Madison Square Garden … Madison Square Garden.
And finally …
Dear Carrie Bradshaw,
A synonym for New York is Carrie Bradshaw. “Sex and the City” made me fall in love with Manhattan all over again while also being an inspiration for women who write. Carrie, your iconic outfits and spring-like curly hair will never be forgotten. You truly embody what every woman should and can be: sexy and smart. As you put it ever so plainly, “I couldn’t help but wonder, is there anything more magical than New York City?”
What city shaped your childhood? Let us know your thoughts by tweeting us @VALLEYmag on X!
