Expert Tips From a Concierge Expert

Nobody knows a city like the local concierge team. With the inside track on all the best places to dine, shows to see and things to do, they’re a wealth of knowledge for all travelers. We talk with a top local hotel concierge in New York City to get the inside scoop on all their expert tips.

Christopher Carrow, Concierge at Le Meridien New York

WG: Where’s the best place to take kids of all ages?
Carrow: SUMMIT One Vanderbilt—NYC Observation Deck (Advanced Booking Recommended).

WG: What are your best tips for exploring New York like a local?
Carrow: Take advantage of New York City’s Subway System, stretching vastly through Manhattan and the outer boroughs. Don’t hesitate to explore the endless options of historic neighborhoods filled with a diversity of architecture, arts, culture, food and more. My favorite neighborhoods include East Village, Greenpoint (Brooklyn), DUMBO (Brooklyn) and Astoria (Queens).

WG: What’s a good spot to capture a great selfie?
Carrow: Domino Park (Williamsburg, Brooklyn).

WG: What is your expert tip?
Carrow: Take advantage of the NYC Ferry system, East River and more. This offers an inexpensive way to take in the skyline views from the water. In addition, it’s a scenic and brighter way to connect to the other boroughs from Manhattan.

WG: For a guest looking for a night on the town, what would you recommend?
Carrow: Start the evening with cocktails at Life Rooftop with amazing views of Central Park. Have dinner in the West Village—some of my favorites include L’Artusi, Via Carota, Little Owl. Finish the night with live music at Terra Blues, a modern-day blues saloon.

WG: Any suggestions for the best under-the-radar sites or uncommon things to do?
Carrow: Brooklyn for a (Street Art) Graffiti Tour and the Lower East Side for the Tenement Museum.