Shopping in New York

5+ Hot Spots for Affordable Shopping in New York

Outlet malls and so much more
By Katie Sagal

Almost everyone who makes it to the Big Apple wants to get some shopping in. From designer labels, one-off mom and pop shops, and brands you can't get back home, NYC has some hidden gems you'll want to know about.

Alongside New York City's diverse attractions and events, shopping remains at the top of many visitors' lists of must-do NYC activities. After all, NYC is at the center of the world’s fashion and retail industry and is home to some of the best-known stores in the country.

So, unless you absolutely loathe shopping, you’ll want to do at least a little of it while you're in New York. And while you'll definitely want to check out the high-end stores (just to say you did), you’ll be glad to know there are also lots of places to find wallet-friendly shopping in New York.

Fun ways to spend your days in between shopping:

Looking to fit in some fun activities and sightseeing alongside your shopping crusade? The below suggestions are a great way for newcomers to familiarize themselves with the city, all while saving a bunch of money on top attractions, tours, and more.

And now, here are 6 places to find discount shopping in New York...

Woodbury Common Premium Outlets

The Woodbury Common Premium Outlets encompasses 220 outlet stores, including one of the few Chanel outlets in the world. The outlets are set up almost like a village, making for an enjoyable atmosphere. The Outlets feature famous brands that offer 25% – 65% off (talk about some cheap shopping!), including...

  • Adidas
  • Arc'teryx
  • Barney's New York Warehouse
  • Burberry
  • Coach
  • Dolce & Gabbana
  • Fendi
  • Giorgio Armani
  • Givenchy
  • Jimmy Choo
  • Kate Spade New York
  • Lululemon Athletica
  • and many more!
Chanel

Located in the Central Valley, about an hour north of Manhattan, you could easily fit a trip to the Outlets into your New York vacation itinerary. Trust us, it’s definitely worth your time. Insider tip: Bring a couple of large reusable bags to make carrying your shopping haul a bit easier. 

Location: Red Apple Court, Central Valley, NY 10917

Ways to Save: Round-trip Woodbury Common Outlet bus tours are available on Go City® 
New York passes. Plus, you will get a VIP coupon with even more savings.

Bloomingdales

To many, Bloomingdale's (also known as "Bloomies") is considered Manhattan's most fashionable department store, with its flagship location being in NYC. Bloomingdale's features a 2,100 square foot Visitors Center that enables vacationers to feel at home right in the heart of New York City.

Some popular shopping items include designer handbags, classic men's and women's collections, fine housewares, and more. There are also multi-lingual receptionists that are happy to help with any information, in-store services, and package delivery to your hotel.

Macy's Herald Square

Macy's

Macy's is not only a fashion institution-it's an American icon. Visit the famed Macy's Herald Square, the world's largest department store. Whether you need the latest fashions for you or your home, you're bound to find them at Macy's. Stop into the Visitor Center on the 34th Street balcony where multilingual staff eagerly welcome you.

Loehmann’s

Loehmann's is a discount designer store that's a favorite among both tourists and locals, offering 30-65% off designer clothing. Plus, they buy nationally, expanding the extensive list of brands that they sell. Some names you can expect to see are Juicy Couture, Michael Kors, Theory, Marc Jacobs, French Connection, Kate Spade, Betsey Johnson, and so much more.

For a cost comparison, the prices are similar to department store clearance items but are available during the current season. As with any discount designer store, your shopping experience will be a bit chaotic as these stores are equally stuffed with people and garments. But chalk it up to the NYC experience and find some great deals!

Location: 2101 Broadway (between 73rd St & 74th St.)

Century 21

It may no longer be New York’s “best-kept secret,” but this bargain designer store is still a gem. Located in the Financial District, they work directly with garment district representatives to only stock locally. This means they have the ultimate in high-end names, like Armani, Pucci, Prada, and Missoni—and you’ll find savings up to 75% on these top brands.

They have a huge men’s and women’s shoe department (located in a separate store) and great prices on kid’s clothing. That being said, Century 21 is not for the faint of heart. You’ll have to fight your way through throngs of shoppers and racks of clothing, but you'll definitely be able to find a gem of a souvenir.

Location: 22 Cortlandt St. (between Broadway & Church)

Cosmetic Market

Good cosmetics can be expensive...but not at Cosmetic Market! Ever wonder what happens to extra make-up and perfume samples when promotions end? Or where excess Clinique, Sephora, and Chanel products end up? The answer to both of those questions: they go to Cosmetic Market. Cosmetic Market is a beauty bargain hunter's dream.

Cosmetic markets

This treasure of a store has everything from $5.50 Chanel nail polish to $1 L’Oreal hair color. In addition to makeup, they have an assortment of other products, like snacks (European chocolate in the back), candles and picture frames, jewelry, and other miscellaneous things (tip: you can find great gifty souvenir things here). You'll need to do a little sifting and browsing through the massive selection, but it's hard to leave this store without finding a steal.

Location: 15 East 37th St. (between 5th Ave and Madison Ave)

Fishs Eddy

At Fishs Eddy, you’ll find the highest-quality kitchenware and flatware for reasonable prices. Whether you’re a culinary whizz or just thinking about adding some flair to your kitchen, Fishs Eddy is a unique place to shop. They have everything you can imagine, ranging in style from retro to contemporary. Plus, they change their inventory seasonally. Look for weekly sales or clearance items to save even more. Just be warned, it’s a tight space—not convenient for strollers and the like.

Location: 889 Broadway (between 19th St. & 20th St.)

Leekan Designs

This unique showroom in the Lower East Side offers a varied collection of ethnic arts imported directly from China, Indonesia, India, Morocco, Afghanistan, Papua New Guinea, and other Asian countries.

Their store features affordable décor and housewares, African trading beads that can be made into a necklace or bracelet on the spot, and ready-made jewelry, among lots of other things! If you’re the kind of person who wants one-of-a-kind items or has an affinity for exotic accessories, you can’t miss this place.

Location: 4 Rivington St. (between Bowery & Freeman Alley)

New York is a discount shopper's paradise, if you know where to look!

Shopping in NYC

So there are a handful of spots to check out if you're looking for some of the best shopping in New York, including popular affordable options, outlet malls, and other hotspots. Remember, often, you can enjoy extra discounts on shopping centers, outlet malls & more with Go City® New York passes. So when you are planning your trip, consider including some of these options in your vacation itinerary.

Save up to 50% on New York attractions with Go City® 

Discover our full line-up of New York attractions including The Empire State Building, Top of the Rock Observatory, the Statue of Liberty, and more.  

🤩 >> If you want to see and do as much as you can, our All-Inclusive Pass is for you.    

😎 >> If you want to pick just a few attractions and visit at your own pace, our Explorer Pass is the perfect option. 

Katie Sagal
Go City Travel Expert

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Things to do Alone in New York

In many ways, New York is the perfect destination for the solo traveler. Aside from its undeniable beauty, the city presents no shortage of fun and interesting things to do. Whether you’re looking to learn about the history of America, view some world-class art, or walk the High Line, you’ll find countless reasons to love the Big Apple. In a city presenting so many opportunities for adventure, you’ll never be bored. If you aren't sure where to start, have a read through our guide of the best things to do in the area. With Go City, you can see more, for less. See the Sites Travelling alone provides great opportunity for sightseeing and discovery. Gifted to America by the French in 1884, the Statue of Liberty is one of the most recognizable landmarks in the United States. To marvel at this historic landmark up close, take the ferry over to Liberty Island. Bearing a torch in her right hand above her crowned head, this neoclassical sculpture stands out as a true emblem of freedom and possibility. Whilst you’re there, you should take time to visit Ellis Island, since these two attractions come hand in hand. Once the United States' main immigration point of entry, the area now presents many interesting activities for those looking to learn more about the development of the United States. Check out the Ellis Island National Immigration Museum, delve deeper in American history with a Hard Hat Tour, or take a boat trip around the area. Presenting such an interesting background that’s still relevant to this day, this site is a moving experience for many visitors. Some things are perhaps best enjoyed on your own – like the spectacular architecture of the city, for instance. Standing out against the towering skyscrapers and modern structures, the Brooklyn Bridge is a mainstay of NYC culture with its own claim to fame. Built in the late 19th century, it was the first roadway to connect Manhattan with Brooklyn and is recognizable today for its stunning gothic arches. Set aside an hour or so to walk the bridge and check out the spectacular views of the Manhattan skyline and the East River. Don’t forget to bring your phone to capture the magic! Get Cultured If you’re looking for art and culture, New York City is the place to be! A well-recognized hub of innovation and creative thought, the city boasts some of the best galleries in the world. Located along the Museum Mile, the Metropolitan Museum of Art is a total must-see for all artsy types. Drawing in millions of visitors each year, the museum exhibits over 5000 years of art across all disciplines. Highlights include Van Gogh’s Starry Night, Monet’s Water Lillies, and Pablo Picasso’s Les Demoiselles d'Avignon. Another one of our favorite things to do alone in the city is visit the Morgan Library. Formerly the private collection of financier J. Pierpont Morgan, this place is recognized as one of the largest on-paper repositories in the world. Indeed, situated in a striking palatial building on Madison Avenue, you can view an expansive collection of art across a wide variety of disciplines, including drawings, prints, and musical works spanning from 4000 B.C. right through to the 21st century. Highlights include Charles Dickens’s manuscript of A Christmas Carol, the only manuscript of Milton's Paradise Lost, and letters written by Jane Austen. Going to see a play of your own choosing can be pretty liberating. Luckily, New York is brimming with options for theater lovers - no matter what your style may be! If you’re a musical fan, Broadway should be right up your alley. Attracting millions of visitors each year, this iconic playhouse is recognized for shaping the landscape of popular theater as we know it today. Still, if you’re looking to see something a little different, you’ll have plenty of places to choose from. Located in Greenwich Village, the Cherry Lane Theatre is known for being the oldest continuously running off-Broadway theater in New York City. Here, you’ll find everything from total classics and tragedies to side-splitting comedies and political works all under one roof. Whether you’re an actor, a drama student, or a dedicated fan of the performed arts, you’re sure to find something to suit your tastes. Relax! New York, we love you, but you can be a little tiring sometimes! For those looking for a refuge among the mayhem, don’t worry – we've got you covered. Running from Gansevoort Street in the Meatpacking District right through to Hudson Yards, the High Line offers visitors a great chance to soak up the city without too much of a fuss. There are flowers, benches, and public art installations to be enjoyed. Go for a casual stroll, have a picnic, or sit back and enjoy the sunset over the skyline – the world’s your oyster! Visiting a market is a fantastic solo travel activity and New York has some of the best. Drawing together artisans and tastemakers from all over the city, Chelsea Market offers a rewarding experience for any visitor. Its main draw is its vibrant food hall, which has over 30 vendors selling dishes and ingredients from around the world. The market also has many interesting shops and kiosks to explore. Browse the book stores, check out the jewelry, pick up a jar of raw wildflower honey, or watch an interactive art installation at Artechouse. Hey, what’s not to love? Forever interesting and bustling with life, New York is the perfect destination for the solo traveler. Whether you love art, history, or just simply want to admire the cityscape, the Big Apple is where you want to be. Looking to learn more about the background of the city? Head over to Ellis Island for a trip back in time. Are you fostering a deep love of the performed arts? Make a trip to Broadway for some of the best live entertainment in the country. Harnessing a sweet tooth? Check out Chelsea Market for some delicious eats. Wherever your interests may lie, New York has plenty of things to do, and even more to see. Explore the city to its fullest with Go City’s All-Inclusive Pass or Explorer Pass. If you’d like to know more, connect with us on Instagram and Facebook.
Sarah Harris
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Things to do in Astoria

Looking for interesting things to do in Astoria? Well, you’ve come to the right place! Established way back in the 17th century, this vibrant neighborhood is now recognized for its fantastic museums, beautiful parks and enticing restaurants. Whether you’re in a group or travelling solo, you’ll find that there's no shortage of things to see and do in Astoria. So, if you’re planning to make the visit, read through our guide of the best attractions in the area. With Go City, you can see more, for less. Explore the Area Brimming with diversity and culture, Astoria is home to a fantastic array of dining options. Whether you’re looking for something a little sweet, a romantic date spot, or maybe just a quick slice, there’s something for everybody here. Still, if it's your first trip here, we suggest checking out one of the area’s many enticing Greek restaurants. Always our top pick, Bahari Estiatorio won the people over long ago with its authentic eats and laid-back atmosphere. This place is a local favorite – and we can see why! But if Greek isn’t your thing, there’s no need to worry – Astoria is a total foodie’s dream. Those looking for a hit of spice should check out Seva. With their approachable menu and rich flavors, this place puts dedication into bringing Indian cuisine to a broad audience. Just be careful you don’t go too spicy! Musical instruments have lent their sound to countless masterpieces throughout the years, but none are quite as recognizable as the Steinway piano. For inquisitive musicians and artisans alike, the Steinway & Sons Factory provides tours so you can see how this beautiful instrument is made. Dig deep into a fundamental part of musical history and view the intricate work that goes into making these pieces firsthand. Walking through the factory, you might feel a little like you’re going backwards in a time machine, but that’s what makes their pianos so special. The company utilizes a lot of unique handcrafting techniques as opposed to modern methods. We recommend wearing your comfiest shoes, since the tour is two hours long! Get Cultured A list of the best attractions in Astoria wouldn’t be complete without the Noguchi Museum. Founded and designed by Japanese-American sculptor Isamu Noguchi, the institution is the first to be established in America with the sole intention of the artist showing their own work. Since then, the repository has grown to include an extraordinary range of sculptures from modern and contemporary artists. Don't forget to check out the sculpture garden, where you can view some of the most interesting sculptor works in a serene outdoor setting. Though this is a specialty museum, these unusual pieces are more than palatable to any creative types drifting into the local area. Where Midtown has the MoMa and The Museum at FIT, Astoria has the Museum of the Moving Image. Built into the former site of the Astoria Studios, the institute concentrates on the history, artistry and technology of digital media. In its expansive collection, you’ll find everything from famous film costumes and still photography to technical and production equipment. Additionally, visitors can enjoy immersive exhibitions, animation workstations and special events. This place is just as intriguing for passionate cinephiles and casual viewers alike – so don’t miss out! We love a good museum, and luckily, Astoria presents some fantastic options for those who feel the same way. Standing out as the only institution of its kind in the city, The People’s Museum works to provide an immersive educational experience for those with physical disabilities. The establishment defines itself as a general education museum, and its exhibitions cover a wide range of topics. From modern art and Roman pottery to Revolutionary War memorabilia and dinosaur bones, this place has it all. With its friendly environment and innovative means of presentation, the museum works to provide a fun learning experience for all visitors. Check out Some of the Landmarks Another one of our favorite spots to visit in Astoria is the Welling Court Mural Project. Situated just a few blocks away from Socrates Park, this vibrant project began as a means to beautify the area and influence positive social change through the art of graffiti. Free and open to the public 24 hours a day, the gallery displays the works of over 150 artists, including Lady Pink, Tristan Easton, and Wane COD. The walls serve as a backdrop for a wide variety of subject matters: from the socially charged and pragmatic to the comedic and whimsical, you’ll spot it all here. Don’t forget to bring your phone so that you can capture some snaps for Instagram! If you couldn’t get enough of the sculptures at the Noguchi Museum, then you should consider checking out the Socrates Sculpture Park. In 1986, the artists Mark di Suvero and Enrico Martignoni set out to transform an abandoned landfill into a hub of innovative activity and creative thought. And it worked! Set against the wondrous backdrop of the Manhattan skyline, the garden is now home to a Impressive and ever-changing collection of architectural models. In addition to its beautiful contemporary sculptures, you can also catch music and dance performances, movie screenings, educational workshops and more. We could think of few things better than savoring a frosty cold one on a balmy summer’s evening. Perfect for hanging out with friends after an exciting day of exploration, the Bohemian Hall and Beer Garden is recognized as one of the oldest venues of its kind in New York. Sip on some of the best Czech and craft beers available and enjoy hot bratwurst straight off of the grill in a friendly courtyard. Keep your eye out for sports nights and traditional festivals - but be warned – they can get quite rowdy! Well, what else is there left to say? We love Astoria! With so many things to do in the area, it’s impossible to be bored. Whether you’re looking to try out some of the best cuisine in the city, catch a drink with some friends, or view some avant-garde art, the world’s your oyster! To find out how to save money on your trip, check out our Explorer Pass and All-Inclusive Pass. For more details, make sure to connect with us on Instagram and Facebook.
Sarah Harris
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New York in July

New York really comes alive in the summertime. With interesting activities and exciting events cropping up all over the city, you’ll find many reasons to love the area this time of the year. Whether you’re looking for fun ideas for Independence Day, or something a little more off the beaten track, we’ve got you covered. So, if you’re planning a great summer vacation, make sure to check out some of our best things to do in New York during the month of July. Get Festive Travelling on Independence Day? You might want to consider checking out Macy’s July Fireworks Spectacular. Attracting a large crowd and broadcast live on NBC, the department store’s legendary display is noted as the largest in the country. Each year, thousands of fireworks shoot from four barges on the East River, granting mesmerizing views of the city skyline as you’ve never seen it before. As if that wasn’t enough, the event also features powerful performances from some of your favorite musical megastars. As exciting as it is magical, you won’t want to miss this one. If you’re looking to view the brilliant display in comfort and style, you might want to think about booking an evening cruise. While sailing across the Hudson River, guests can enjoy the light summer breeze, a delicious sea-food centric dinner and unbeatable views of famous landmarks. In addition, the cruise offers a live DJ playing your favorite party hits and all-you-can-drink beer and wine. Don't forget to take some snaps of the fireworks illuminating the night sky! Another one of our favorite things to do for the month of July in New York is visiting Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty. Standing out as two of the most popular attractions in the city, these outstanding monuments tell the profound story of how America became a nation. A total must for history buffs, Ellis Island provides a great educational experience for those of all ages - take a walking through the Immigration Museum, check out the historic hospital, or cruise around the city’s most notable landmarks - the choice is yours! And of course, a trip to Ellis Island wouldn’t be complete without checking out the Statue of Liberty. Not only a photo opportunity, this majestic statue stands as a beautiful symbol of hope and freedom. Get Cultured Are you looking to try out some of the city’s best culinary offerings? Well, look no further! Situated in a state park across the East River waterfront, Smorgasburg fest provides a total treat for the senses. With over 100 artisanal vendors serving up pretty much every speciality under the sun, you can feast on Korean rice hot dogs, rainbow empanadas, and souffle pancakes. Order a beer, grab a bite, and enjoy the sunset – what's not to love? Summertime in New York can only mean one thing – music festivals! Combining the stunning backdrop of Central Park with an incredible lineup of world-famous artists and emerging talent, Summerstage festival provides the quintessential New York experience for music lovers. Previous performers have included Patti Smith, the Indigo Girls, and Galactic among others. In addition, the event produces free dance, theater, film and spoken word programs for those who are interested. Summertime in New York brings a whole host of wonderful outdoor events. Held annually against the backdrop of Central Park, Shakespeare in the Park gives travellers the opportunity to enjoy prime theater under the beautiful night skies. Notable past performances have included Meryl Streep in The Taming of the Shrew, Philip Seymour Hoffman in The Two Gentlemen of Verona, and Al Pacino in The Merchant of Venice. This magical, one-of-a-kind experience should be at the top of everyone’s itinerary! Find Fun Activities to Do Those who are looking for a fun and unique way to explore the city might want to head over to Little Island. Floating high above the Hudson River and entirely admission free, this attractive urban landscape would make the perfect day trip for you and your loved ones. The perfect place for kicking back on a sunny July’s afternoon, this stunning green space is home to a wide variety of wildlife and provides magnificent views of the city skyline. On top of it all, the park serves as a venue for a whole host of great outdoor events and first-class musical performances. Take a lazy summertime stroll, watch your favorite side-splitting comedians in action, or catch a drag show– the choice is yours! Though New York is well-recognized for its renowned cultural amenities and fabulous towering structures, the city’s history-rich neighborhoods really shine in the summertime. Situated at the Southern tip of Brooklyn, Coney Island provides the perfect way to catch some rays complete with a lively beach, wooden boardwalk, and dozens of attractions and rides. Whilst you’re visiting, make sure to check out the most famous hotdog stand in the world, which has been operating since 1916. Don’t forget to bring your bathing suit! Want to amble through vast fields of purple and experience the natural beauty of New York State in all of its glory? Well, now you can! Known as one of the largest lavender farms in the United States, Lavender By The Bay provides the perfect relaxing retreat from the city. Here, visitors can take walking tours to admire the breathtaking sight of over 80, 000 colorful shrubs. July is the perfect time to amble through the preservation since the lavender should be in full bloom. Thoroughly Instagram-worthy and relaxing, we couldn’t think of a better way to spend a summery July’s afternoon! There’s nothing quite like New York in the summer. With so much to see, do, and explore, it’s impossible to be bored in this sprawling metropolis. Whether you’re looking to celebrate the fourth of July to its fullest, amble through some lavender gardens, or watch Shakespeare under the stars, the city presents a wide array of exciting activities for every traveller. And now, you don’t have to miss out – with our All-Inclusive Pass and Explorer Pass, you can find an exhaustive array of things to do, for cheaper. For more information, connect with us on Instagram and Facebook. With Go City, you can see more, for less.
Sarah Harris

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