The US Open is on and if you’re like us, you’ll want to visit all of New York’s best shops, restaurants, bars and more in between matches. Luckily, the city never sleeps, so explore outside of the Grand Slam tournament. Here, we’ve curated a list of tried-and-true spots to stay, play, eat, and more in New York City.
Where to Play in NYC:
Sportime Randall’s Island: Home to the prestigious John McEnroe Tennis Academy, this 24-court destination boasts over 160,000 square feet of tennis courts and facilities including fitness centers and steam rooms. 12 courts are even lit up in the evenings, if you’re in the mood for doubles at dusk. To head back to Manhattan, just hop on the ferry back to the city.
Central Park Courts: Take an early stroll through the park’s leafy, magnificent pathways before heading up to 93rd St. near West Drive, where four hard courts and 26 fast-dry courts open up at 7am each morning. Pro tip: purchase tennis permits online for the season which runs from April 1st to the Sunday before Thanksgiving. Click here to make a reservation.
Roosevelt Island Racquet Club: You can play tourist and tennis at Roosevelt Island Racquet Club, which is reachable by a scenic tram that goes over the East River. There you’ll find 12 air-conditioned indoor courts. If you prefer to play outdoors, head to the Octagon Courts.
Where to Eat in NYC:
Monkey Bar: Head to this classic New York institution in the heart of Midtown for a fabulous martini and the Otoro tartare with caviar. We love the backdrop of red booths and iconic murals.
Bad Roman: You’ve likely seen this modern Italian hotspot all over your Instagram feed. It’s a fantastic spectacle, with maximalist decor and show-stopping dishes like lobster scampi and trompe-l’oeil lemon cheesecake. Reservations for this Columbus Circle restaurant open three weeks out and can be hard to nab, but worth the hassle.
Raoul’s: One of the city’s most celebrated bistros, Raoul’s has been a fixture of the downtown scene since it opened in 1975. Sink into one of the black-and-white leather booths (note they can only accommodate up to parties of 5) and enjoy what locals know to be the best steak au poivre around.
Where to Stay in NYC:
Whitby Hotel: This darling boutique hotel in Midtown bears the cheery, colorful influence of British interior designer and hotel owner Kit Kemp. Think upholstered walls, lots of pattern, beautiful art and rooms designed to feel like you are staying in a friend's chic guest room. Private terraces and skyline views make it even harder to leave.
Crosby Street Hotel: SoHo’s most charming enclave is all about playful patterns, impossibly tall headboards and views for days out of warehouse-style windows. Maximalists and anyone who appreciates a good dose of color will swoon at Kit Kemp’s downtown outpost.
Lowell Hotel: A classic luxury hotel that speaks to the timeless elegance of the Upper East Side. Each room boasts a distinct design inspired by the chic neighborhood. While hotels like the Carlyle or Mark get all the attention, The Lowell is where in-the-know visitors like to check in.
Where to Drink in NYC:
The Mark Bar: This intimate –yet lively– bar designed by Jacques Grange is a favorite spot for Upper East Siders. Known for its spectacular wine list and bold design, it’s a destination on its own or before dinner at The Mark Restaurant by Jean Georges.
Flavors of the Open: There’s no shortage of places to enjoy a drink at the US Open. Refresh yourself with a Honey Deuce, the event’s signature cocktail, or a bubbly Aperol Spritz from the Italian Apé Truck. Celebrity chefs serve up signature bites and cocktails at their restaurants studded throughout the tennis center. We’re loving Fare by Alex Guarnaschelli and Mojitos by David Burke.
Where to Shop in NYC:
Kirna Zabête: A glamorous edit of the best designer pieces every season. Think Bottega Veneta paired with Libertine and Dries Van Noten along with emerging and unexpected designers.
Nordstrom: From Gucci to Saint Laurent to Veronica Beard all of your favorite designers are on offer at the Nordstrom flagship on West 57th St.
Saks Fifth Avenue: The perfect afternoon is a combination of lunch at L’Avenue with time spent browsing through Saks’ incredible assortment spread out over ten floors.
