New York City is world-famous for shopping, from luxury stores to historic department stores and unique indie boutiques. But many visitors stick to 5th Avenue, Rockefeller Center, and Herald Square, missing the city’s hidden treasures.
Her secret? Explore and get lost—but with a plan. For Walsh, getting lost means wandering through small, focused “pockets” of neighborhoods filled with shops, restaurants, and surprises. “I always think about the restaurants nearby,” she says. “It makes the day more fun.”
In SoHo, Walsh loves the cobblestone streets along West Broadway and Broadway for women’s fashion. She searches for indie boutiques like Kirna Zabête on Mercer Street, featuring both well-known and rising designers. She also stops at spots like La Mercerie, a mix of restaurant, clothing store, and flower shop, before ending the day at Balthazar.
For men’s gifts or fashion, Walsh heads to Bowery. She calls the area “woodsy” and underrated. Favorite stops include John Derien, an upscale home décor store she calls her “Christmas problem solver,” and Dashwood Books on Bond Street, a cozy bookstore with a small Goop shop.
Midtown is unbeatable for classic holiday shopping. Macy’s Thanksgiving Parade, Rockefeller Center’s Christmas tree, and the 5th Avenue window displays create a magical experience. Even though locals often avoid the crowds, Walsh insists on visiting with her kids. “You have to see it,” she says. “It’s just so special.”
Erin Walsh’s NYC shopping guide shows that shopping is more than buying—it’s about exploring neighborhoods, discovering hidden gems, and enjoying the holiday spirit.
