NYC is the city that never sleeps, with enough places to explore, eat and see that it would take a lifetime to fully discover – that’s why we asked some of our local Flytographers for their favourite places to take in the view, grab a cup of coffee or explore off the beaten path in New York City.


Flytographer Amanda

What do you love about New York City?

Pretty much everything! At the top of the list is accessibility to anything and everything. Within a few minutes I can get food, entertainment, a house plant, hangers, or shampoo- basically whatever I need, can be obtained with minimal effort! And I usually can get it all by foot. The whole city is SO walkable, and to me, feels incredibly safe and completely alive any time of the day (and usually night!). I also love that I never have to deal with putting my kids in or taking them out of car seats! My stroller is my car. And it’s one of my most prized possessions!

Tell us about your favourite neighbourhood in the city.

We live on the Upper West Side because it’s our very favorite neighborhood in all of New York City. When people say they don’t like NYC, I like to ask what places they’ve visited- oftentimes they’ve hit the busy, touristy spots (i.e.: Times Square), but haven’t ventured outside the congestion! Just blocks north of the craziness is the Upper West Side, and to me it’s the perfect mix of locals and tourists. There are families, wide sidewalks, incredible architecture, history, tons of food, shops, and access to both Central Park and Riverside Park. It’s the dreamiest.

Must visit spots in your favourite neighbourhood?

Central Park, Orwashers Bakery, Book Culture, and Levain Bakery.

Favourite cup of coffee or brunch spot in NYC?

Jacob’s Pickes is probably the most well-known brunch spot in my neighborhood, but it can be quite busy, especially on weekends. Orwashers Bakery has the ABSOLUTE BEST chocolate chip cookie in all of NYC- it’s like nowhere else. They practically know me by name because I’ve turned them into a breakfast, lunch, dinner, and/or snack… a cookie can be a brunch MEAL, right? 😉 Dining al fresco is incredible in NYC- brunch and late dinners being the very best times to dine and people-watch.

Favourite place to take Instagram photos in NYC?

Central Park (especially Sheep Meadow- that view never gets old) or DUMBO for the skyline/Brooklyn Bridge- they’re opposite in landscape, but equally as dreamy!

Best free activity to experience in NYC?

Picnics! Central Park & along the Promenade in Brooklyn Heights/DUMBO are about as good as it gets.

Do you have a fun fact about NYC?

One of my favorite things is that there is ALWAYS someone else awake. At night when I look out our windows onto Broadway, I can always see apartments with lights on, cars driving, and people walking in the streets. You never feel alone. Ever!

Tell us about iconic landmarks or locations that you can’t get enough of and why?

Sheep Meadow in Central Park takes my breath away EVERY SINGLE TIME. The fact that there can be such a sense of serene in the middle of madness is like magic!

Off the radar location/spot/view that you love?

Rooftops!! Oh, the rooftops. They’re one of NYC’s hidden gems. Our last apartment had a private rooftop, and there was nothing quite like the view at night. Any building that has a view from the roof is one that is difficult to process – just listening to the sounds on the streets, while simultaneously taking in the lights and views from above!? Incredible!

One reason why people should book a trip to this destination?

There is literally no place on earth like New York City. You can see SO much of Manhattan by foot, and access the rest of it easily by bike, train, or car. Every neighborhood is completely different, and there is nothing quite like the 24/7 nature and vibe of the city.


Flytographer Lauren K.

What do you love about New York City?

I love that at almost anytime of day, there is something to do, something to see, or something to eat.

Tell us about your favourite neighbourhood in the city.

Currently I live in Park Slope and I think that has to be one of my favourite neighbourhoods. I’ve always lived in Brooklyn and there are so many great neighbourhoods in one Borough but Park Slope has culture, great food, cool bars, and a gorgeous historic district with beautiful architecture and a gorgeous park to hang in during the summer.

Must visit spots in your favourite neighbourhood?

Grand Army Plaza, Brooklyn Botanical Garden, and the Brooklyn Museum.

Favourite cup of Coffee or brunch spot in NYC?

Currently, it’s Roots Cafe in South Slope.

Favourite place to take Instagram photos in NYC

Along the promenade in Dumbo – you can see the Manhattan skyline, Brooklyn Bridge and brick buildings all along the path, it has a little bit of everything!

Best free activity to experience in NYC?

Free Tuesdays at Brooklyn Botanical Garden!

Tell us about iconic landmarks or locations that you can’t get enough of and why?

I think I have to say Dumbo for how much variety there is. Skyline views, close to the water, great restaurants and cobbled streets to get lost through. If you’re willing to get lost you can end up walking further away from the crowds and discover the quiet streets of Brooklyn Heights too.

Off the radar location/spot/view that you love?

I don’t spend enough time there, but Gantry Park in Long Island City has amazing views of Midtown skyline and also the Pepsi Cola neon sign is really cool to stand up close to.

One reason why people should book a trip to New York City?

The abundance of variety and different cultures to fill your time is almost overwhelming but so much fun!


Flytographer Bri

Tell us about your favourite neighbourhood in the city.

I love the West Village, the quieter cobble stone streets, neighborhood feel, and proximity to the Hudson River. I consider it quaint and always enjoy spending my time there dinning, shopping, and enjoying the city. The Village also feels old world and has charm.

Must visit spots in your favourite neighbourhood?

Molly’s Cupcakes, Numero 28 Pizzeria, Puerto Rico Importing Company (Coffee), and BookBook (Bookstore).

Favourite cup of Coffee or brunch spot in NYC?

Bluestone Lane – West Village.

Best free activity to experience in NYC?

The Highline and Central Park – both give you a chance to see the city slightly removed from the bustle of the streets and sidewalks.


Flytographer  Armando

What do you love about New York City?

I love the freedom to live the possibilities and the people.

Tell us about your favourite neighbourhood in the city.    

I usually stay in Brooklyn and I would say Park Slope, Dumbo, and Red Hook have a lot to offer in terms of art and so much going on.

Must visit spots in your favourite neighbourhood?

Definitely Korzo in Park Slope!

Favourite cup of Coffee or brunch spot in NYC?    

Nothing beats the dollar coffee at the local bodegas on your way to your destination.

Favourite place to take Instagram photos in NYC

Dumbo for sure! The views of the Brooklyn Bridge, cobblestone streets and hidden gems are hard to beat.

Best free activity to experience in NYC?

I would say running – it’s a great way to discover parts of the city that you may not have seen sticking to the main roads.

Do you have a fun fact about NYC? 

People are not as bitter as others think they are 🙂

Tell us about iconic landmarks or locations that you can’t get enough of and why?

The Brooklyn Bridge – just walking on it gives you a sense of self-perspective and scale that will have you humble yourself and admire its beauty

Off the radar location/spot/view that you love?

Bush Terminal Park for sure. My private spot in Sunset Park for locals only!

One reason why people should book a trip to New York City? 

To walk the same streets where the most incredible people have walked on – it makes you feel connected to so many people, past and present.

Does New York City sound like a fun place? Capture the moments and hire a vacation photographer today!