Next to the famous Rockefeller Center Plaza, this iconic street is lined with flagship stores from the world’s most prestigious brands, offering everything from high-end fashion and jewelry to the latest tech and gourmet treats.
August 2, 2024
NYC has several luxury shopping districts, but none can rival the quality and variety found on Manhattan’s Fifth Avenue. Next to the famous Rockefeller Center Plaza, this iconic street is lined with flagship stores from the world’s most prestigious brands, offering everything from high-end fashion and jewelry to the latest tech and gourmet treats. Fifth Avenue's reputation for luxury shopping is unparalleled, and it becomes especially magical during the holiday season, transforming into a winter wonderland with glittering lights and festive displays. We local advisors here at Khonsu created this guide to help travelers hit the must-visit stores during their visit to this famous street.
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Ok … On to the list
An incredibly cool and luxe Apple flagship store, perfectly suited to NYC’s most luxurious street. Redesigned in 2019, this sleek space features glass staircases and skylights that double as benches, giving it a futuristic vibe. The iconic glass cube rises from the sidewalk, leading to a subterranean showroom with the latest Apple products, open 24/7.
Each floor of the Cartier Mansion offers a unique selection of exquisite jewelry. Cartier’s Fifth Avenue Mansion, acquired in 1917 through a legendary pearl necklace transaction, is now a landmark of luxury. Redesigned by Laura Gonzalez, the updated design of the mansion is full of clever nods to the brand's history and fine details to explore. It’s especially worth a visit during the holidays when the entire building is transformed into a sparkling wrapped present.
Saks Fifth Avenue is a New York City icon, spanning an entire city block and even boasting a shoe floor with its own zip code: 10022-SHOE! This grand flagship store shines brightest during the holiday season with its elaborate window displays. With nine floors dedicated to luxury boutiques from top brands like Louis Vuitton and Chanel, Saks provides a premier shopping experience. While you’re there, you can also enjoy a meal at L'Avenue, the upscale French restaurant located within Saks.
The Nike House of Innovation is a six-story wonder, spanning 68,000 square feet. Here, you can test running shoes in the “Trial Zone” with dedicated treadmills or visit the “Expert Studio” for personalized marathon training and product advice. The Nike Sneaker Lab boasts the largest collection of Nike products, including exclusive LeBron-brand releases, making it a must-visit for sneaker enthusiasts.
The Tiffany & Co. flagship store, immortalized in Breakfast at Tiffany’s, has been beautifully renovated and is a must-visit on Fifth Avenue. The store features a museum-like showroom for exploring Tiffany’s renowned jewelry and silver. The 6th-floor Blue Box Cafe, recently reopened under Jean-Georges, offers a refined breakfast and afternoon tea experience. Be sure to book in advance, as reservations at this coveted spot fill up quickly.
Bergdorf Goodman, the only store of its kind in the world, offers a distinct luxury shopping experience on Fifth Avenue. Known for its impeccable service, it features eight floors of high-end women’s fashion and three floors of men’s apparel. During the holiday season, Bergdorf Goodman’s elaborate window displays are a must-see, competing with Saks Fifth Avenue’s festive showcases. Don’t miss the in-store restaurant with views of Central Park or the swanky Goodman’s Bar in the men’s section, both are perfect for a break from shopping.
Located in the striking neo-Gothic World Diamond Tower, Sephora’s Fifth Avenue location is a beauty paradise. This flagship store showcases over 300 cosmetic brands and offers special holiday gift sets and events. The second floor features spa and beauty services, with massive windows offering stunning views of Fifth Avenue. It’s the perfect spot for a relaxing break from shopping or people-watching while your travel partners get their eyebrows shaped.
Microsoft’s flagship store on Fifth Avenue is like a more entertaining Apple Store, offering multiple floors of tech thrills. It’s a fantastic stop for families, with a gaming lounge on the third floor where kids can try out the latest Xbox and PC games. The store also hosts free workshops and events, along with special promotions for upcoming Microsoft game releases like Forza and Sea of Thieves. If you’re looking for a way to keep kids engaged during a Fifth Avenue shopping trip, this is the perfect spot.
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