This morning started bright and early with a walk through Gramercy, Chelsea, SoHo, and Greenwich with my mom. The sun came out to greet us bright and early over the East River, warming the cool 18 degree air.
We were the only crazy people power walking around the quiet city blocks due to the cold. We were passed by commuters and students but loved the time together. I miss our morning walks together when we’re not together as it’s a great chance to catch up and chat. We even passed a beautiful church that I’ve passed a million times and never realized it was Episcopal. Due to it’s beautiful architecture, I always assumed it was Catholic.
Bo and I will have to try this church out sometime soon!
After our walk, we came back home to wake my dad up and start our day exploring the city. Since my parents have both been to New York numerous times our trips revolve less around the tourist sites and more around restaurants, Broadway shows, and long walks exploring the city. However, it’s been over ten years since my parents visited in the winter so the chilly weather has been a fun twist.
We started our day at Murray’s Bagels in the Greenwich Village. My dad did his research in advance and knew exactly where he wanted to go for breakfast this morning. He’s adorable like that whenever he travels and finds the “best New York City lunch” or “best bagel place in New York City.” Needless to say, I think SIRI is his best friend sometimes.
Even though our friends lived above Murray’s Bagels for three years, this was my first time going there for breakfast. It was definitely a better experience than last week’s Ess-A-Bagel due to the fact that the service was faster and there was plenty of space to sit and enjoy. This is a step above your true NYC bagel place because they don’t just serve fresh bagels and spread. They have multiple breakfast sandwiches in addition to the bagels and spreads.
Three bagel sandwiches for three hungry people.
My dad indulged with a cinnamon raisin bagel egg sausage sandwich. While it was delicious, he could only eat half the rich sandwich filled with gooey cheese and spicy sausage.
Mom and I shared An everything whole wheat bagel, our absolute favorite, especially when paired with egg whites, veggies, and a splash of hot sauce!
If you’re looking for an authentic bagel experience which allows you the option for sandwiches, Murray’s Bagels is a perfect spot.
After breakfast we headed up to the Metropolitan Museum of Art in hopes of beating the tourists and school crowds. Arriving at 10am on a Friday gives one an ample amount of time to enjoy the museum without being crowded, shoved, or annoyed by squealing children.
In fact, we felt like we had the New American Wing to ourselves for the first hour!
Also, if you live in New York City and enjoy art, I discovered a little known fact today. For only $60 per year, you can become a member of the Metropolitan Museum of Art which allows for free admission, special preview events, and more! In addition, by joining today, I was able to apply the amount I’d paid for admission to the annual membership fee.
We spent 2.5 hours exploring the New American Wing in all it’s renovated glory!
We saw beautiful paintings including our boy George crossing the Delaware.
On our way out the bears said goodbye and the knights in shining armor tried to lure my dad back in the exhibits.
Outside the museum we spent a few minutes basking in the bright sunshine and blue skies before heading to lunch.
Oh and in case you were wondering, the perfect shoes for a day like today are definitely UGGs!
Now these boots are heading further north for lunch at Luke’s Lobsters and a sweet treat from Two Little Red Hens.
Question: Who is your favorite painter or photographer? Why?
