I’ve put together these tips/suggestions for those of you traveling from out of town for a workshop or photoshoot! I’m continuing to add resources to it so please check back for more details! Please reach out to bookings@heidihapanowicz.com if you have any specific questions!
Current Covid Restrictions
NYC has discontinued most rules. You no longer have to wear a mask indoors (except on public transport) where it is still required.
Most places no longer require proof of vaccination to enter the EXCEPTION to this however seems to be the West Village. I really don’t know why they are stricter than other neighborhoods but it’s the only place I’ve been asked to show proof in recent weeks.
Many small bars/restaurants in the Village are still asking for proof. My suggestion is to simply keep a photo of your vaccine card and ID in your phone in case you are asked.
Coming to work with me in NYC?
Here are some things you’ll need to know! I’m located in the Nomad/Flatiron district, close to Madison Square Park. There are an abundance of restaurants and hotels within walking distance.
Where to stay:
There are numerous hotels in the Nomad/Flatiron area below I’ve listed a few options) but there are also plenty of Marriott Hotels, Renaissance, Hiltons, Sheratons, Holiday Inns, etc. the area!
The James Hotel - The James is the most convenient hotel as it’s directly across the street from me but it may be a bit pricier than some of the other options. Here are a few (but certainly not all) of the hotels nearby.
For the best rates, I am a big fan of the app HOTELSTONIGHT and here is a referral link that will save you.
I also suggest price checking on sites such as Priceline and hotels.com You can search for hotels near Nomad/Flatiron/Empire State Building area.
What about Airbnbs?NYC has pretty strict (and frustrating!) laws around rentals for less than 30 days which means you will have a hard time finding an Airbnb something for a few nights.
You can, however, rent a room in someone’s apartment for a few nights on Airbnb which is a more affordable option! Just look closely at the reviews! This is a great and affordable way to stay in the city!
I LOVE the company Sonder - they are an airbnb alternative with gorgeous locations and many of them have small kitchens, in-unit washer/dryers. Here is the direct link to Sonder and look for their Flatiron location. They just opened this beautiful centrally located location and I highly recommend it!
How to get here:
When booking flights you can fly into any one of the three NYC airports.
Laguardia - Laguardia is the closest. They do not have public transport into the city. But it’s the least expensive option for Uber or Taxi (around $50) Download the CURB app for the best rates!
JFK - They do have public transport to Manhattan. Look for signs to Airtrain at JFK. Take the Airtrain to Jamaica Station and transfer to Long Island Railroad to Penn Station. Total cost is approx. $15.
Cost of Uber/Taxi will be closer to $70 (but this varies based on time of day/weather/etc)
Newark, NJ - Newark airport is a great option as there are many cost effective flights, it’s a lovely airport that has been recently remodeled and it’s easy to navigate. You can easily take the train directly into Penn Station for around $15!
Driving to NYC - If you are driving into the city, there is a garage right on my street and one directly behind me but I suggest you use the SPOTHERO app to find the BEST prices on parking garages! You can find last minute parking just a few blocks away for a fraction of the price!
How to get around
You can use Uber or Lyft but I also suggest you download an app called CURB. It works like Uber or Lyft but connects you with a taxi and there are no price surges! It can be significantly cheaper!
Download the CURB app and use code 16Z13U for $5 off yoru first ride!
Public transport in NYC super easy to navigate and the most cost effective way to get around the city. You can easily use your credit card to “tap” and pay and do not need to purchase a subway card.
CitiBikes - I LOVE to grab a blue citibike and pedal my way around on a beautiful day! There is an app that tells you were the various locations are but you can also unlock a bike using your Lyft app!
Or just WALK! Part of the joy of NY is being able to walk around the city and check out all of the different sites and people! Be sure to wear comfortable shoes!
Where to eat
There are endless places to eat in NYC!
There are coffee shops and Starbucks on every corner so that will be easy to find!
Eataly Flatiron. Part Italian grocery store with several restaurants, gelato, coffee bar, take out food - it’s all just delicious! Just go there! I like to grab something to go and then walk across the street to Madison Square Park to eat lunch!
Grab a burger at Shake Shake in Madison Square Park
Marta at The Redbury Hotel is just around the corner and has great pizza and seafood.
Upland California inspired pizza and salads
Check out this list of NYC’s most iconic pizza restaurants
Planta Queen Nomad is right around the corner and has absolutely delicious vegetarian food + cocktails with a cool and sexy vibe!
Marty V Burger is another vegetarian option but super casual, it’s just a walk-up take out fast food joint!
Seven Grams coffee right around the corner has AMAZING chocolate croissants and lots of gluten free cookies!
The Smith Nomad has a huge menu and options for everyone.
They are currently building a Whole Foods a block away from me (63 Madison Ave) This should be open by the time you get to the city and they will have lots of hot and cold pre-made options for you! There is also a fresh juice bar across the street!
Download the Resy or Opentable App and simply look for restaurants that appeal to you based on your location!
Here is a link to some great rooftop bars that you may want to check out
For finer dining options:
Scarpetta (at the James Hotel) has a great bar and dinner is delicious - although not cheap! Make your way downstairs to Seville their late night lounge for a cocktail and dancing!
The Edition Hotel across from Madison Square Park has a sexy lobby bar and then make your way upstairs to the restaurant/bar for great people watching!
For fine dining my neighborhood (Nomad) has 5 Michelin Star restaurants that you can check out!
Cosme NY is a delicious Michelin Star Mexican restaurant in Flatiron
Summit at One Vanderbilt is the latest spot for incredible views and opportunity for some amazing instagram photos!
You can also check out The Edge at Hudson Yards
Rent a Citibike and ride up and down the West Side Highway! It’s been nicknamed “Club West Side Highway” by young locals as its the spot you can see all of the hot young New Yorkers running/working out in the mornings/evenings.
Visit Central Park and take photos in front of the Bethesda Fountain.
Check out some of the jazz/blues clubs in the West Village! Terra Blue and Cafe Wha? are two favorites!
See a Broadway show. Here are some tips on getting last minute or discounted tickets
Visit Chelsea Market and the Meatpacking District. Then wander around the West Village.
Have lunch at the top of Restoration Hardware! The restaurant there is GORGEOUS!
If you’re in the West Village stop by Dante for one of their gorgeous cocktails!
Visit one of the cities amazing museums or art galleries. The Met, The Whitney, MOMA, The Guggenheim, The Natural History Museum are just a few of the many options!
Check out an exhibit at Fotografiska which is very close to my place. Fun fact: It’s located in the Park Avenue Building which was made notorious recently in the Anna Delvey documentary! This was the building that she wanted to buy for her private club!
The Museum of Sex is also close by if you want to check out something a bit edgier!
Photographer’s you’ll definitely want to stop by the famous B&H photostore Please note however that they close early on Fridays and are not open on Saturdays!
Visit Bryant Park and then check out the NY Public Library directly behind it on 5th Avenue! This is the library where Carrie Bradshaw had her famous wedding fiasco in Sex in the City!