Our second morning in New York City began under a blanket of rain. The skyline was barely visible through the mist, but there was no way a bit of British-style weather was going to stop us from exploring. We grabbed our coats, embraced the drizzle, and set out for another full day in the city that never sleeps.
Breakfast at the Edison – Bagels the Size of Your Head
The day started strong with the largest New York bagels you could imagine, generously smothered in cream cheese courtesy of Hotel Edison. Fuelled and ready, we donned our raincoats and stepped out into the downpour.
Shopping on Madison Avenue
First stop: Madison Avenue – a stretch lined with high-end designer stores and the home of BAPE’s second New York location. True to form, we arrived an hour before it opened. Ever the planner! To kill time, we took a wet wander through Central Park and grabbed a hot coffee before heading back to BAPE once the doors finally opened. A king’s ransom later, we left happily weighed down with new purchases.
St Patrick’s Cathedral – Shelter from the Storm
On our way back to the hotel to drop off our bags, we stopped by St Patrick’s Cathedral on Fifth Avenue. We’d admired it from the outside many times but had never ventured in. Not being particularly religious, we were really just seeking shelter – but what a place to find it.
Built in 1878 in the Gothic Revival style, the cathedral’s soaring arches and intricate stained glass were breathtaking. It reminded us of a smaller version of Lincoln Cathedral back home. By the time we stepped back outside, the rain had eased and the sun was making a cautious reappearance. Perfect timing to change into dry clothes and continue exploring.
Wandering Through Hell’s Kitchen to the Hudson
That afternoon, we decided to wander through Hell’s Kitchen and down to the Hudson River in search of the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum. We’d planned to go inside, but by the time we arrived the day was slipping away – and the entry price felt a bit steep for a quick visit. Instead, we admired the ships from the pier, took photos of Concorde, grabbed a few souvenirs (and stickers, of course), and headed back through the restaurant-lined streets of Hell’s Kitchen.
A quick drink stop in Times Square later, and it was time to tart ourselves up for a well-earned evening meal.
Dinner at Gallaghers Steakhouse
Tonight’s dinner was at Gallaghers Steakhouse – one of New York’s most famous dining spots. A bit tricky for Deb, being vegetarian, but the sides here are legendary. She tucked into mac ’n’ cheese and a heap of fries, while I enjoyed the juiciest, most tender fillet mignon I’ve ever tasted, served with onion rings and fries. Starters were equally delicious: a wedge salad and burrata with coal-fired peppers.
We skipped dessert, opting instead for a couple of cold IPAs to finish the meal. Afterwards, we strolled back through Times Square, coffees in hand, soaking up the organised chaos of nighttime Manhattan – K-pop bands filming videos, off-duty superheroes posing for photos, and a few of New York’s more eccentric characters keeping things lively.
Day 2 Recap – 28,000 Steps and 11.5 Miles
We didn’t quite hit the 30,000-step mark but clocked up an impressive 28,000 steps (around 11.5 miles). Hopefully enough to balance out the steak and fries! It was another full day of classic New York experiences – from soggy sightseeing to luxury shopping and unforgettable food.
Next Up: The Road Trip Proper Begins
Tomorrow marks the real start of our East Coast USA road trip as we pick up our hire car from JFK and hit the open road for the next two weeks. Stay tuned for Day 3, when the city lights give way to coastal highways and small-town charm.
