Weekly Highlights in NYC #14: October 21-October 27
All the Halloween festivities, a great family party at the AMNH, The Met PJ Party, and some new openings in NYC...
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(Begrudgingly!) I’m on Instagram now—please follow me here! Many real-time NYC recommendations to come.
Family Party at the American Museum of Natural History: Tuesday, October, 21, 5 p.m. (tonight!). This festive evening features hands-on educational activities, live animal encounters, and opportunities to meet scientists and educators. It’s a unique chance for families to explore the Museum after hours.
Another fantastic museum party: The Met Pajama Party is on Thursday, October 23 from 5-7 p.m.It’s a Halloween-themed party for all ages, and attendees are encouraged to wear costumes or pajamas while enjoying interactive art activities, storytelling, and live entertainment in the Temple of Dendur.
There are SO many Halloween events and parties this weekend leading up to the holiday. Here are some worth highlighting: Asphalt Screams on Friday, October 24, High Line Halloween, Little Park of Horrors on Saturday, October 25, Pumpkin Point on Governors Island Saturday, October 25 and Sunday, October 26, Lil Sweet Trick or Treat at Rockefeller Center, Fall Harvest Fest at Radio Park on Thursday, October 23 and so, so many more. The full details and all Halloween-related events are on my Halloween newsletter here.
The Ice Rink at Rockefeller Center is now open, if you want to beat the holiday crowds. Plus, don’t forget that you can purchase tickets in advance and book the Après Chalet Skate experience, which has sold out in years past. This year, the chalet reservation includes four same-day Top of the Rock tickets - how fun!
I’m thrilled to hear that Big Night has opened on the UES (73rd and Lex), I love their products. It’s right across the street from newly opened Marlow, which is also worth a visit.
I just learned about BUDDY BUDDY, a nut butter coffee shop from Europe and I’m intrigued. It’s a popular Parisian cafe that mixes nut butters into their speciality coffee drinks, and there are plans to open a cafe in NYC come November, so looking forward to this one.
Popular downtown brunch spot, Café Maud just recently opened on the corner of 85th and 2nd Ave. The Domino Room is on the second floor and becomes a speakeasy-style bar in the evenings - fun!
Not an opening per se, but worth flagging: The Row sample sale is happening on October 22 through October 26, opening at 10 a.m., at Metropolitan Pavilion, expect longgggggg lines but steep discounts.
The L.L.Bean Residency Pop-Up is now open and running through November. Located in SoHo at 416 W Broadway. Step inside for an immersive outdoor-inspired experience celebrating adventure, craftsmanship, and cozy fall vibes
I’m also excited to check out the newly opened Faena Hotel. I’ve heard the restaurant La Boca is fantastic, but an impossible reservation to get.
We went apple picking last weekend and ended up with a bushel of apples. I’ve been trying to go through the apples and use them many different ways, but this apple crumble recipe has been the winner — super easy, delicious, and a great baking activity with the kids.
Everyone in our family is loving this everyday meatballs recipe from Smitten Kitchen. It’s as simple as it is tasty, but I make it with a couple of modifications: I opt out of the parsley and garlic (don’t think it needs it and not worth the fiddle) and instead of canned tomatoes, I use a jar of Rao’s—because doesn’t everything taste better with Rao’s?
Books my kids have been loving this month (that are pleasant for me to read too): Spoops (a cute Halloween book), Knight Owl, Strega Nona, and Extra Yarn
Camila Vignaud, mother of two boys and the co-founder of Casa Bombón, a collection of vintage-inspired home accents that are both polished and elegant—think gorgeous totes, pareos, and table linens. Known for her refined, timeless aesthetic, Camila brings her impeccable taste to share her favorite spots around NYC. I’m so excited for Casa Bombón’s next collection dropping in early November, featuring a fresh lineup of fall patterns across their signature products.
“We love ending our weekends at the Central Park carousel with the boys. Afterward, we head to Bar Italia, the rare spot where our kids skip the pasta altogether. Their chicken paillard is absolute perfection! Chef’s kiss!”
“If you’re looking for a sweet treat, I love popping into Madison Fare for their frozen yogurt topped with pistachio knafeh. They also have the most beautifully packaged food gifts...perfect for the holidays, or as a thoughtful hostess or teacher gift.”
“As we head into the holiday season, I always look forward to Holiday on Madison, a thoughtfully curated pop-up showcasing the perfect mix of brands, from Sanoe, Kinderbrook Home to my own Casa Bombón.”
“For a cozy family dinner, we love Elio’s. The off-menu chicken parm might just be the best in the city...and don’t forget the zucchini fritti!”
Thank you for sharing your fabulous recommendations, Camila!