7 Best Department Stores in New York

When it comes to shopping in New York City, the options are endless. From luxury boutiques to flagship stores, the city that never sleeps offers a plethora of choices for retail therapy. But among the many shopping destinations, some department stores truly stand out for their exceptional variety, customer service, and overall experience. That’s right, because the best department stores in New York City aren’t just destinations for shopping, but they are also cultural landmarks with plenty of entertainment to offer. Whether it is the iconic BG restaurant with the view of Central Park at Bergdorf Goodman, or the spectacular Holiday Light Show at Saks, NYC department stores are places where all the family can entertain. And from all of the department stores in New York, these are the 7 best:

1. Macy’s

Opening up the list of the best New York City department stores with the iconic Macy’s. Located in the heart of Manhattan at 151 West 34th Street, between Broadway and Seventh Avenue, Macy’s has been a symbol for retail excellence for over a century. Offering a wide range of products, from clothing and accessories to houseware and cosmetics, Macy’s is a top shopping destination for both tourists and NYC locals. Not even to mention that the store’s Thanksgiving Parade is one of the most famous in the World, attracting visitors from multiple countries each year. During the holiday season, Macy’s also hosts Santaland, where children can meet Santa Claus.

2. Saks Fifth Avenue

Located in the heart of Manhattan, right across the Rockefeller Center, Saks Fifth Avenue, is another iconic luxury department store in New York City. Btw, did you know that the store’s shoe department has its own zip code, which is 10022-Shoe? How fun, isn’t it?! It goes without saying that Saks Fifth Avenue is a top place to shop for shoes in NYC. But well, not just the shoes, but pretty much everything luxury, as the department store carries all of the world’s finest names in luxury fashion, beauty and home. Not even to mention that Saks Fifth Avenue’s holiday window displays are among the most spectacular in the city, incl. their Holiday Light Show, which attracts thousands of eyes each year.

3. Saks OFF 5TH

If shopping at Saks Fifth Avenue Flagship is outside of your budget, shopping at Saks Off 5th sure is. The official outlet store of Saks Fifth Avenue, Saks Off 5th is a haven for luxury bargain hunters, carrying hundreds of big name brands, all at discounted prices. The inventory is typically composed of items that didn’t sell in the main Saks Fifth Avenue store, or items that are specifically produced for outlets. Examples include designer ready-to-wear, footwear and accessories. Saks Off 5th also has several retail locations around New York City. So, just imagine the amount of bargains to be found!

4. Bergdorf Goodman

Set in a historic Beaux-Arts building that dates back to 1901, Bergdorf Goodman is an iconic luxury department store located on 754 5th Ave in Manhattan. A prime destination for all things luxury, Bergdorf Goodman carries some of the world’s most prestigious names in luxury fashion, beauty and home. Basically, name any designer and you’ll find it here. And don’t be shy to ask for a personal styling appointment if you need help crafting your looks. Bergdorf Goodman’s personal shoppers and stylists are always more than happy to help! Make sure to also visit the iconic BG Restaurant for a delightful dining experience with a view of Central Park.

5. Bloomingdale’s

With a massive selection of luxury fashion, beauty and home goods, you’re sure to leave Bloomingdale’s with at least a couple of their iconic big brown bags. But that’s not the only reason to visit the department store. An iconic part of New York City’s shopping culture, Bloomingdale’s, has been around since 1861, which makes it one of the oldest department stores in the city. This particularly applies to Bloomingdale’s Flagship located on the Upper East Side at 59th Street and Lexington Avenue (but don’t hesitate to also visit the store’s other location in SoHo at 504 Broadway). Furthermore, the department store’s festive holiday window displays and decorations are a popular attraction during the holiday season.

6. Nordstrom NYC Flagship

Located at 225 West 57th Street at the base of Central Park Tower, the Nordstrom NYC Flagship is a 320,000 square-foot shopping haven, offering seven levels of retail space for shoppers to explore. Carrying a mix of brands, ranging from mid-range to high-end, Nordstrom NYC Flagship is renowned for its extensive and diverse selection of merchandise, incl. clothing, footwear and accessories. Featured brands include Madewell, Longchamp and Christian Louboutin, among many others. Nordstrom is also known for its amazing sales, incl. its highly anticipated Anniversary Sale, where shoppers can score discounts on new-season items.

7. Nordstrom Rack

Style meets savings at Nordstrom Rack! With several locations around NYC, Nordstrom Rack is the official outlet of Nordstrom. Basically, much like Saks Off 5th, which carries items that didn’t sell at main Saks, Nordstrom Rack carries items that didn’t sell in main Nordstrom stores. Examples include men’s, women’s, and children’s clothing, as well as footwear, accessories and home goods. Most pieces are either from previous seasons, or overstock. Moreover, the inventory is constantly changing, meaning that you never know what “treasures” you find.

So, here you have it – the 7 best department stores in New York City. Which one would you visit first?