“Concrete Jungle Where Dreams Are Made Of”

Back in February, my best friend and I took a much-needed trip to New York City to get our creative juices flowing and kick off the year with a bang. This wasn’t just any trip—it was all about exploring new opportunities, building partnerships, and soaking in the vibrant energy of one of the most exciting cities in the world. We had the incredible chance to collaborate with the World Trade Center, Summit One Vanderbilt, Sloomoo, and so many other amazing places that made this adventure one to remember.

This was my second trip to New York City, but it was a whole new experience for my best friend. Not only was this her first trip to the Big Apple, but it was also her first time flying! Watching her take in the sights and sounds of the city for the first time brought back so many memories of my first visit. There’s something magical about experiencing the hustle and bustle of New York—every corner, every street has a story to tell. And trust me, we tried to experience it all

Our adventure started the moment we touched down at LaGuardia. Instead of going for an expensive cab, we opted for the budget-friendly route: taking the bus to the subway and riding the subway into the city. I have to say, for someone who isn’t a New Yorker, I feel like a pro on the subway system now, which still feels a little surreal! The key is to know your stops ahead of time and have your MetroCard (or phone with Apple Pay) ready—after that, it’s all about going with the flow.

One of the highlights of our trip was visiting the World Trade Center Observatory. The views from the top are breathtaking, giving you a panoramic look at the iconic New York City skyline. It’s a must-see for any trip to the city. [Insert link here for discounted tickets to the World Trade Center Observatory.]

As we explored, our itinerary was packed with unforgettable activities. Visiting Summit One Vanderbilt was one of those “wow” moments, where we got to experience breathtaking views of the city from up high. The World Trade Center visit was equally powerful, mixing both history and hope, a place where creativity and resilience come together.

Sloomoo: A Playful and Creative Experience

We also had the chance to visit Sloomoo, an interactive slime experience that was surprisingly fun! It’s a creative space where you can play with slime, get hands-on, and even customize your own. It’s a great spot for both kids and adults to unleash their inner child. The bright, colorful atmosphere made it one of the most unique activities of our trip.

In between all the partnerships and activities, we made sure to dive into the restaurant scene, trying new spots that gave us a taste of the city’s diverse food culture. From iconic pizza slices to trendy little cafés, New York really knows how to keep your taste buds excited. When it came to dining, one of our most memorable meals was at Ellen’s Stardust Diner. This 50s-themed diner is famous not just for its food, but for its singing waitstaff—many of whom are aspiring Broadway performers. As you enjoy your meal, you’re serenaded with show tunes, making it a truly immersive dining experience. We indulged in fried mac & cheese balls, crispy onion rings, and classic comfort dishes like chicken and waffles and chicken Parmesan. The portions were generous, and the entertainment made it so much more than just a meal—it was a true New York experience.

By the end of the trip, my love for the city had only grown deeper. It’s the kind of place that makes you want to come back again and again, constantly discovering something new. I’m already counting down the days until I return—New York City, you’ve got my heart!

Travel Tips:

• Fly into LaGuardia if you’re looking for a convenient option with budget-friendly transportation. Take the Q70 bus from the airport to connect to the subway.

• Get familiar with the subway map before you go—it makes all the difference in navigating the city like a pro!

• Don’t be afraid to mix iconic tourist spots with off-the-beaten-path experiences. Balance is key!

Until next time, NYC!