Early Mornings in SoHo
📍 SoHo, New York City
Tank Top || Skirt || Flats || Similar Handbag || Earrings
Without a doubt, my favorite time of the day in New York is the early morning hours. Especially during the summertime, a beautiful light fills the street. The city of 8 million is still, and you have it all to yourself. While this moment of quiet and calm is short-lived, it’s an incredible experience that I love to take advantage of on every trip. During this time of the year, the sunrise is around 5:30 am. That’s an early wake-up call for even the peppiest of morning people. Here are my top recommendations to take advantage of early summer mornings in SoHo and anywhere else in Manhattan.
Get a Good Night’s Sleep
In a city that never sleeps, it’s very tempting (and all too easy) to stay up into the wee hours of the morning. I’ve been guilty of doing that on several occasions myself and have suffered the consequences the next day. Especially if you want to take advantage of an early morning exploration, getting a good night’s rest is critical. Start with happy hour, enjoy a wonderful meal on the town, and wind down the evening by relaxing at the hotel. Cozy in a hotel robe by 10 pm with to-go dessert? That sounds like an ideal night to me!
Go Easy on the Adult Beverages
When enjoying the evening with friends, this is sometimes my downfall that keeps me from getting up with the sunrise. I’m not saying you have to abstain entirely, but definitely save it to a minimum. I’ve found that a cocktail at happy hour and a glass of wine with dinner, mixed with several glasses of water throughout, is a good measure. Instead of having a few rounds of post-dinner cocktails, hold off until mid-morning. Countless brunch spots around the city have incredible mimosa specials. It’s all a better reason to start your weekend mornings earlier.
Use the Black Out Curtains
Oh, how I’ve come to love this on our stays in New York! Blackout curtains are so helpful in blocking out both light and sound. I’m a pretty light sleeper, and while the sounds of the city often lull me to sleep, one expected noise jolts me awake. I also never sleep well the first night in a hotel room, but getting it as dark and quiet as possible is helpful. I will recommend leaving a little sliver open, so you can see the morning light as it begins to trickle in. Without, you may sleep in well beyond the early morning hours.
Visit a Local Coffee Shop
Nothing like a full cup of caffeine motivates you first thing in the morning. Whenever I wake up early to explore a new neighborhood, I always scout the local coffee shop scene. The little things help me get some extra pep in my step. Take your drink to-go with your favorite pastry, and wander the area. Relax at a nearby park if you find one and watch the world pass. The point is that the peace and quiet are even better when you have a great coffee in hand, making the early alarm much more bearable. My personal favorite in SoHo would have to be Felix Coffee Roasting on Greene Street.
After a quiet morning to yourself, you’re now ready to take on the day in New York. Join your friends for brunch, book a ticket at your favorite museum, and explore all the city has to offer. Whether you’re just visiting for the weekend or have the pleasure of calling yourself a resident, early mornings are the perfect opportunity to see bustling Manhattan at its very best!
Love from NYC,
Katie
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