If there is one thing you can’t forget to do while you are in New York City, it is the endless amounts of shopping. Just full of stores, boutiques, flea markets, and sidewalk vendors, the shopping in New York is just something you can’t find anywhere else. There are better places to shop than others and places where you can find a better deal, so before you head to the big city, make sure you have a plan of where you are going to shop.
For the most extravagant stores, as well as the highest prices, there is no place better than Fifth Avenue. Between 50th and 59th street you will find a mix of trendy boutiques, premiere chains such as Tiffany & Co., FAO Schwartz, Macy’s and of course Bloomingdales. If you stroll over to Madison Avenue from 57th and 75th you will find the premiere shopping stores such as Donna Karan New York, Armani, Ralph Lauren and many more. Although it may be out of your budget, it is worth it just to walk around in these first class stores.
Shopping in New York is actually fairly inexpensive because there is no sales tax on clothing or footwear under $110. If you are buying things other than clothes, you can even have your purchases shipped home to avoid the 8.65% sales tax, and the hassle of trying to get everything home. Stores hours can vary greatly, but for the most part, all stores are open by 10am everyday but Sunday. The bigger department stores are open seven days a week and can extend their hours during holidays and big sales. You should try to avoid lunch hour shopping, as many of the locals are trying to rush in and out during their time away from the office.
For New York discount shopping, The Garment District is an excellent place to go. Between 34th and 40th streets and between Fifth and 9th Avenue, you can find some of the best deals in New York City. From purses to scarves and everything in between, if you want it, you will probably find it here.
The Grand Central Market also has great New York Discount shopping. Located in the renovated Grand Central Terminal, this historical landmark is home to something better than shopping for clothes. You can shop for food here. Reminiscent of a European food hall, you can spot gourmet foods, fresh fish, baked goods, amazing and rare spices, and homemade chocolates to bring home to all your friends and family at unbelievable prices.
Lastly, for outstanding one-of-a-kind pieces, you should head to SoHo or Greenwich Village which have the most unique items including jewelry, accessories, and vintage clothing. From Bohemian selections to native crafts, you can find almost anything you want in this area.
There is just so much to see and buy in New York City that you would need a lifetime to see and shop it all. From flea markets to the jewelry exchange, make sure you get out and enjoy it what shopping in New York City.
