Have you ever found yourself in NYC on a rainy day? It can be difficult to figure out what to do on days like these. That’s why I have compiled a list of things to do to keep you out of the rain while still being entertained. You can also view my YouTube video to really see how to survive your next rainy day in NYC!

Things to Do

The Drawing Center

The Drawing Center celebrates what drawing truly is. With over 300 exhibits under their belt, this is the exhibition space to visit if you want to get to know an artist well. Unlike typical museums, The Drawing Center highlights the work of one artist. In the Lab gallery downstairs, there is an additional exhibit that rotates depending on season.

On this particular visit, the exhibit featured works from Neo Rauch, a German artist that focus on figurative and surrealist imagery on paper. The Lab gallery featured the exhibit, As If: Alternative Histories from Then to Now, which explores historical narratives reimagined through the traumas of modern and fictional life. I found this section to be the most enjoyable since I am a fan of science fiction, dystopian novels and quirky scenarios. This exhibit is running until July 28th, 2019 if you wanna check it out!

Catch a Concert at Bowery Ballroom

This activity definitely takes some advanced planning (unless you like to spontaneous purchase concert tickets the day of the show). The Bowery Ballroom is a concert venue located downtown between Bowery and Delancey Street. They have a variety of artists performing throughout the year and can be a great way to spend your night if you are a true music/concert-going fan. If you’re interested in my experience meeting Lolo Zouaï be sure to check out my previous post here.

Shops to Visit

Generation Records

Speaking of music fans, vinyl is a special hobby of mine and can be a great way to escape the rain. Get lost in Generation Records searching the piles for your favorites. They have a great selection of used vinyl in a variety of genres. I even saw anime vinyls which was something new to me. During this visit, I was able to score a great gem. I happened to find a copy of the TCB Soundtrack recording for the Temptations, Supremes and Diana Ross. This is a classic live recording from the NBC series that used to air in the 1960’s and 1970’s. I am so happy that I found this and saw so many others that I would have loved to pick up had I not been heading to a concert that evening.

Glossier

One of my favorite makeup brands is Glossier. At first I was hesitant to put in an online Glossier order so the flagship store in NYC was a Godsend. Its so nice to swatch the products and try before you buy. Some of my favorite finds that I have not stopped using since include the Cloud Paint seamless cheek color in Dusk and the Generation G sheer matte lipstick in Cake. They both leave a natural finish like your skin but better and I am extremely fond of the formulas. I can’t wait to try more from them as well as their skincare offerings.

Housing Works Bookstore & Cafe

This is a wonderful shop that supports a great cause. Housing Works operates with the genuine help of its volunteers. It’s a non-profit organization where 100% of it’s profits fund their efforts and services. “Housing Works mission is to end the dual crises of homelessness and AIDS through relentless advocacy, the provision of lifesaving services, and entrepreneurial businesses that sustain our efforts.” Peruse the used books or purchase a cup of coffee here knowing that you’re helping a greater cause. Unfortunately, the store was closed this time but I cannot wait to come back and spend some time here.

Artists & Fleas Soho

The SoHo location of Artists & Fleas features a variety of vendors in an indoor space worth exploring. You can totally get lost here exploring the variety of trinkets and offerings. Once again, I ran out of time but will definitely return to explore more. I absolutely love the Williamsburg location and purchased some great green tea from there once!

Places to Dine

Saigon Shack

Saigon Shack is a wonderful option for a cost-effective and filling lunch. Service is quick although there seems to always be a wait. Rest assured, the tables turnover pretty quickly. The highlights from Saigon Shack include the Pho and Banh Mi. I opted for the Banh Mi because I was certain that I could finish it in one go.

The spicy S.S. Classic Banh Mi is absolutely delicious and more than enough for lunch. The baguette is crisp and balances the flavors from the mayo, jalapeño, pickled carrots, daikon and cilantro. The sandwich is packed with flavor and dances on your tongue. It is spicy, pickled, refreshing while also being hearty. The Classic Banh Mi costs $5 and features Vietnamese ham, bacon and pâté. It is super delicious. Just remember to bring cash as this restaurant is cash only.

Matchaful SoHo

Matchaful is a perfect spot for a quick pick-me-up. The employees at this location are extremely friendly and knowledgable should you have any question so do not hesitate to ask. The ambiance is soothing and the playlist is so good (at least on the day I visited.) I really wanted to spend a little more time here, if i could. I ordered a simple drink to truly savor the matcha notes but I am looking to try more combinations next time.

The matcha latte with macadamia milk is nutty, earthy and soothing without being too sweet. The matcha that is served here is 100% organic and sourced from the mountainous fields of Nishio in the Aichi Prefecture. Matchaful is also a 1% for the Planet member and 1% of all sales go towards non-profits that strive to protect the planet. I highly recommend.

Tacombi

Tacombi is a popular Mexican taco restaurant born from the beaches of Yucatan. When you get seated, you are given a sheet to check off how many tacos, sides or other options you would like. When you’re ready, hand that list to your server and be prepared for some delicious and filling tacos to be served up shortly. We also ordered the corn which is a must. Probably my favorite menu item from Tacombi to date.

I ordered a Baja fish taco and was extremely pleased. The crispy beer-battered fish juxtaposed with the tangy pickled cabbage and poblano mayo really hit the spot. Add the morita or àrbol sauces for additonal heat. I find the morita to be the hotter, chipotle flavored one of the two.

Seamore’s

Seamore’s Nolita is a great healthy option that focuses on sustainable seafood while also remaining tasty and fun. Their happy hour deal is probably one of the best in the downtown area. Choose from Seamore’s Local Lager on draft, house wine or four delicious house cocktails. Drink prices start at $3 dollars at 3 p.m. and increase by a dollar until it is $5 dollars at 5 p.m. The happy hour bites are also worth trying. Seamore’s offers $2 dollar oysters by the 1/2 dozen, $5 dollar fish tacos and $5 dollar beer-battered onion rings. The market selection oysters that day were fresh and extremely refreshing with a drop of lemon. They had a slightly jelly consistency without being overly chewy. I like to describe it as tasting like the ocean but better. It’s akin to sea-spray cleansing your palette.

Google Map Itinerary

Now with this information at hand, I hope you can take on NYC rain or shine. Let me know which activity interests you the most in the comments below and which dish you want to try the most! I’d love to hear. Stay dry and safe out there!

xo,

Christine Celine