01/15/2026
💜💛🗽I can’t wait to welcome all my dog show friends to iconic New York City in a few weeks.!
• Walk whenever you can. Midtown looks big on a map, but many things are closer than you think. You’ll see more, stress less, and probably find a great coffee or bakery by accident.
• Subway over Uber. Traffic can be brutal, especially around show hours. The subway is almost always faster. Remember, just tap your phone or card with OMNY.
• Give yourself extra time. Everything takes a little longer in NYC, whether it’s elevators, security, or crossing streets. A buffer keeps the trip fun instead of rushed.
• Eat off the main avenues. Step one block off the busy streets and the food usually gets better and less crowded.
• Dress in layers. February can change its mind hourly. Warm coat, but layers underneath so you’re comfortable indoors.
• Stand right, walk left. On escalators, stand to the right so locals can walk on the left. You’ll make friends fast this way.
• Cash isn’t king anymore. Most places are card or tap only. A credit card or Apple Pay will get you nearly everywhere. (Chinatown and a few dive bars are the exceptions here)
• Late dinners are normal. Restaurants stay open later than you might expect, which is perfect after a long day at the show.
• Don’t stop in the middle of the sidewalk. If you need to check your phone or admire a view, step to the side. This one matters more than you’d think.
• It will be restaurant week while you’re here with many places offering both lunch and dinner deals! Highly recommended making reservations at any place you really want to go.
I put together a Google Maps list with favorite restaurants, bars, museums, and spots to wander when you want to soak up the city:
https://maps.app.goo.gl/bmRm9bb4YL376wKc8
If you’re thinking about Broadway or Off Broadway, great timing! It’s Broadway week too which means 2 for 1 tickets to most shows.
https://www.nyctourism.com/broadway-week/
These are some great picks right now, depending on your mood:
• Oh, Mary!
New campy play, big laughs, and a very unfiltered take on the First Lady’s inner life.
• Ragtime
A sweeping, emotional musical about America at the turn of the century. Big story, big music, and incredibly powerful.
• Death Becomes Her
Pure camp and dark comedy. Glamorous, ridiculous in the best way, and perfect if you want something fun and over the top.
• Operation Mincemeat
Smart, fast, and surprisingly funny. A true World War II espionage story turned into an energetic crowd-pleaser.
• Buena Vista Social Club
Warm, joyful, and full of rich Cuban rhythms. It feels like being transported straight to Havana for the night.
• Two Strangers (Carry a Cake Across New York)
Sweet, modern, and very New York. Funny and heartfelt with just the right amount of charm.
• Liberation
A bold newer musical about self-discovery and finding your voice. Strong performances and a thoughtful story.
• Masquerade
An immersive Off Broadway experience inspired by Phantom. You move through the space as the story unfolds around you. Totally different from a traditional theater night.
Whether this is your first Westminster or your twentieth, welcome back to New York! Bundle up, tap your way onto the subway, eat something amazing, and enjoy every minute! 🗽💛💜