Where to find inspiration in NYC?

Perhaps the better question is: where can’t you find inspiration in NYC?

Anyway, when I visited NYC in January 2023 on a freezing day, I stumbled upon the most charming and inspiring bookstore. It was a place of warmth, both literally and figuratively—a beautifully curated and inviting space called McNally Jackson Books. Inside, I discovered thousands of new ideas for what to read next.

We spent hours browsing the shelves, completely immersed. And if that wasn’t delightful enough, the store also has a cozy café where you can sit down, enjoy a cup of coffee, and dive into your newly found treasures.

So, if you’re ever in SoHo, near 134 Prince Street, step inside!

I came across the book 8 Rules of Love, which I ended up reading after my four-month trip around the world (with NYC as my first stop). I chose not to buy it at the time, as I didn’t want to carry a book for the entire four months—or risk having to leave behind something so meaningful along the way.

If you can’t visit the store in person to find inspiration for your next read, don’t worry—they have an excellent website as well.

We spent so much time exploring the store that, by the time we stepped outside, it was already dark. Fortunately, just a quick 5-minute walk from the bookstore is a beautiful viewpoint that offers breathtaking views of the Brooklyn Bridge even at night.

I’d love to hear if you’ve been there too and what you thought of it! Or perhaps you’ve discovered another bookstore like it somewhere else in the world?

XoXo

Melanie