Best Places to Shop in NYC On a Budget
As a fashionista like myself, just kidding, let’s start over. As someone who shops in NYC often, whether that’s forgetting my sweater at home or sweating through my shirt when the weather all of a sudden decides to switch up on us, it’s those moments that you find the best spots and where to go. From window shopping along with 5th Avenue to trying not to get scammed near Canal Street and going into local stores to get what you’re looking for, here are the best places to shop in NYC on a budget.
Best Places to Shop in NYC On a Budget: Flea Markets
Flea Markets are a great way to make an activity out of window shopping, and you just might find that one statement piece you have been looking for. Whether it’s a cool souvenir to hang up at home, a sweater in your new favorite color, or a gift you can’t wait to give to someone, flea markets are one of my favorite activities to do because you always end up with something good. Plan a low-key morning near any of these spots and have a quaint afternoon looking through all the relics.
Top Flea Markets to Check Out: Chelsea Flea Market, Brooklyn Flea, Grand Bazaar NYC
Best Places to Shop in NYC On a Budget: (Window) Shopping Centers
Not only do these places have shops, but more times than not, they are all decked out for the holidays. If you are visiting in the wintertime, the Hudson Yards location is, in my opinion, the nicest, and it’s right by The Edge, a great way to knock out two great places in NYC. Most of the stores in here are on the expensive side, so I honestly walk right through and don’t even try, ahah! It’s definitely worth a visit if you have time!
Shopping Centers to Check Out: Brookfield Place, Hudson Yards, Westfield World Trade Center, Columbus Circle
Best Places to Shop in NYC On a Budget: Shopping Districts
If you love to shop, honestly, who doesn’t? These shopping districts have stores everywhere you walk, so you’re bound to walk into a store and check out the selection.
- 5th Ave: Perfect for window shopping, especially around the holidays, and also for luxury shopping. There are a lot of iconic stories like Louis Voutton, Tiffany, Chanel, you name it, there’s a flagship store in NYC and most likely along 5th Ave.
- Soho: This is for more trendy shopping. Places like Urban Outfitters, American Eagle, Supreme, and some boutique stores like Mure and Grand. Perfect for those classic, picturesque shopping days with great photo ops against the iconic buildings.
- Canal Street: If you like luxury without paying for luxury, this is your spot. The people along here hustle, so just be prepared, bring cash, and don’t let them pressure you to buy anything. You have to be assertive or else they will take advantage, that’s just how it goes.
Best Places to Shop in NYC On a Budget & for the Environment: Vintage Stores
Thrifting is the new wave of shopping, in my opinion. You save so much money, and it’s a less pressured environment than a typical store that you go to, since nobody is trying to push a sale. Find some hidden gems in here, and usually someone in the group ends up scoring big! I found this comprehensive list of every and any vintage store, so please check it out, and I am listing some of my favorites down below!
Vintage Stores To Check Out: L Train Vintage, Buffalo Exchange, Goodwill (specifically in upper-class areas like the Upper West/East Side)
Best Places to Shop in NYC On a Budget: Affordable Stores Locals Go To
With NYC’s unpredictable weather, it’s very possible that your suitcase is filled with long sleeve shirts when the October weather is warmer than expected, and now you need to buy some short sleeves. We’ve all been there before, when you have to buy something last-minute and need a quick spot that isn’t going to break the bank and just might become an everyday staple. Search any of these stores up, and you’re going to find what you need!
- Department Stores: Century 21, Nordstrom Rack, Macy’s, Target, TJ Max, Marshalls
- Shoe Stores: DSW, Famous Footwear
- Clothing Stores: H&M, Old Navy, Gap Factory, Express Factory
There You Have It
If you’re looking for more specific information, I think this blogger has a lot of solid information to help you make some more decisions on where to shop best! I personally am not a huge fashionista, so check her out too if what I have isn’t too helpful. The Ultimate Guide to Shopping in NYC: Where & What to Buy. Shopping in NYC. With that said, happy shopping, and remember to try not to break the bank. You’re already spending a lot, probably coming here, so just be mindful, make smart decisions, and have the best time!
what do you think?