My Favorite NYC Moments of 2025.

2025 has been a year full of adventures, little discoveries, and slow, cozy moments around New York City — the kind that stick with you long after the day is over. From early morning coffee runs in Harlem to spontaneous evening walks through quiet, tree-lined streets in Brooklyn, this year reminded me again why I love living, wandering, and discovering new corners of the city so much.

I wanted to take a moment to share some of my favorite NYC moments of the year — the cafés, corners, streets, and small gems that made my year special. Whether you’re visiting or live here too, I hope this inspires a little NYC magic in your own days.

☕️ Coffee & Cozy Cafés

Some of my most peaceful and creative moments happened with a warm cup in hand. From Lenox Coffee in Harlem to hidden spots in Williamsburg, these cafés weren’t just about the coffee — they were about the pauses in my day, the energy of the city, and the little rituals that keep me grounded.

For anyone planning their own NYC coffee tour, I’ve mapped all my favorite cafés in my NYC Guide on Google Maps, so you can explore them exactly how I did.

🌆 Neighborhood Walks & Hidden Gems

2025 reminded me to slow down and really see the city. Some favorite strolls:

• Marcus Garvey Park in winter, when the light hits the trees just right.

• Frederick Douglass Blvd brownstones, all decorated for the holidays.

• Little side streets in Brooklyn that felt like a movie set.

These walks were a mix of planning and spontaneity — sometimes I just follow my camera or my mood, and the city never disappoints.

🍲 Food, Drinks, & Local Favorites

This year, I tried so many new spots that quickly became staples:

• Cozy brunch spots in Harlem that feel like home.

• Restaurants and dessert cafés in Brooklyn with standout small plates.

• Seasonal NYC favorites — think holiday treats, warm soups, and hot chocolate that actually warms your soul.

If you’re building your own NYC itinerary, I’ve tagged all my favorite restaurants and food spots in my NYC Google Maps guide, so you can recreate some of these moments for yourself.

🏠 Cozy Home & Winter Nights

Some of the best NYC moments didn’t even involve leaving home. From winter nights cooking in my Harlem kitchen to journaling by candlelight, this year reminded me that city life isn’t just about adventure — it’s also about creating a warm, comforting corner for yourself.

My ShopMy picks this year — oversized cardigans, candles, and cozy mugs — were my go-to companions for these nights. They make the at-home NYC experience feel just as magical as wandering the streets.

✨ Reflecting & Looking Ahead

NYC in 2025 has been full of lessons, laughter, and small, meaningful victories. Revisiting these favorite moments reminds me to appreciate the everyday magic, the tucked-away corners, and the simple experiences that make this city feel like home.

Whether you’re a local or visiting for the first time next year, I hope these moments inspire your own NYC adventures in 2026. And if you want a head start, don’t forget to check out my Google Maps NYC Guide — it’s updated regularly with all my favorite spots from this year.

Here’s to a new year full of more coffee, walks, cozy nights, and NYC magic.