New York shopping is a nonstop eye-opener, from the pristine couture houses flanking Madison Avenue to quirkier shops downtown. No matter which threshold you cross, shopping here is an event. For every bursting department store there's an echoing, minimalist boutique; for every familiar national brand there's a secret local favorite. The foremost American and international companies stake their flagships here; meanwhile, small neighborhood shops guarantee unexpected pleasures. National chains often make their New York branches something special, with unique sales environments and exclusive merchandise.
For most New Yorkers, window shopping is almost unavoidable. Midtown workers are constantly passing tempting displays while running to the office or dashing out for coffee. The must-hit shopping neighborhoods concentrate their temptations, sometimes with boutiques in nearly every address on a block, so you can easily spend a couple of hours just browsing.
