It’s no secret that Chelsea and Midtown West have one of the best combinations of cutting-edge art and urban nature in the world. The hottest international art centers right now happen to be steps away from—or literally overlook—the Hudson River and some of the most gorgeous urban sunsets on the East Coast.

This is a place where nature and imagination nurture each other. The High Line which also is now a part of Hudson Yards, is the perfect example of this quintessentially New York phenomenon. It’s a gateway to Chelsea and the West Village and a place to take in an early winter sunset after a day of gallery hopping. It’s one of several urban spaces, both indoors and out, where you can watch the sunset and then transition seamlessly into some of the best dining and nightlife New York has to offer.

Take a walk along the High Line from your apartment at 555TEN. Stroll through innovative urban landscaping and a steady stream of fashionistas while taking in the sunset as it glints over the river and the rooftops. At the southern end of the High Line is the Whitney, where you can see Toyin Ojih Odutola’s exhibit To Wander Determined through February 25th; afterwards grab a table for an early dinner at Untitled, the museum restaurant, where you can feast on seasonal cuisine while catching the last embers of the setting sun through the giant windows of the Renzo Piano-designed building. The Top of the Standard, “close to the pinnacle of the nightlife world” according to Zagat is also a hot spot (with a stellar view of the sun going down over the city) that is easily accessed from the High Line. Come early for the purple, pink, and golden skies warming the snow-dusted water of the Hudson and stay late for the party.

While a view of the sunset can be the opening act of a night on the town, it can also be a relaxing way to wind down after work any day of the week. The beauty of living at 555TEN is that spectacular sunsets over the river and the skyline are a part of your walking or jogging routine along the Hudson River Park. Any day of the week, you can stroll down to Pier 84, the biggest pier now open to the public, and watch the sunset with water views in three directions. The abundance of the sky and the energy of the city, makes your home at 555TEN that much more cozy to come home to.

The impressive luxury apartments for rent at 555TEN have it all: incredible views; massive, sophisticated residences; and a vast array of amenities—including a pool rooftop and sundeck complete with cabanas. The surrounding neighborhood of Midtown West encompasses world-class theater, stellar retail options, exquisite eateries, great parks, and one of the world’s premier event spaces: the Jacob K. Javits Center

The Javits Center is one of the busiest convention halls on the planet. With a total exhibition area of 840,000 square feet, there is virtually nothing it cannot house. It’s also one of the most environmentally-friendly convention halls. The facade was constructed from high-efficiency glass; their 100 HVAC units are energy-efficient models, and their lighting is energy-efficient as well. But the most impressive aspect of their commitment to going green is undoubtedly the enormous 7-acre green roof. According to data listed on their site, the roof will “prevent approximately 6.8 million gallons of storm water run-off annually and also reduce heat gain” and result in a stunning 26% decrease in energy consumption.

From Comic Con to the NYC Marathon prerace event; the New York Times Travel Show, to the North American International Toy Fair; the International Beauty Show, to Vinexpo (the largest wine and spirits-focused trade show in North America); the New York International Auto Show, as well as an assortment of fashion shows and releases, children’s events, and pretty much anything else one could imagine—every weekend something intriguing is happening here.

Regardless of what you’re into, there will be at least 10-20 events per year that you’ll want to attend. Check out their full schedule here. The convenience of being nearby is huge. These one-of-a-kind events draw crowds from all over, so being able to just stroll over instead of trying to find parking or cramming on a packed subway car will make the day all the more enjoyable. Beyond that, being able to leave, grab a bite at home, and then return to the event provides a nice way to break up the day.

For over 30 years, the Javits Center has been New York’s primary event space, and it continues to evolve and remain at the forefront on every level. The staff has a serious talent for accommodating a diverse range of industries and cultural attractions. If you live in 555TEN, one of the city’s most dynamic spaces will be just a few blocks away.

Image courtesy of ©iStock.com/JMRPhotography

Just a few blocks from the “center of the universe,” residents of the Midtown West apartments at 555TEN are in a prime location to take in the New Year’s celebrations. Rather than joining the crowd and commotions of Times Square, residents of the 555TEN luxury rentals have plenty of other top spots to choose from. Whether you are looking for a relaxing night of jazz and cozy cocktails or are hoping to dance the night away with your nearest and dearest, the options are endless when it comes to the Midtown West neighborhood. And, as an added bonus, just as the clock strikes midnight, residents living on the higher floors  at 555TEN can watch the ball drop from the comfort of home.

The Press Lounge – 653 11^th Avenue

Venture to The Press Lounge and experience one of the most seductive, unobstructed rooftop views in all the city. As you appreciate the sights of the Manhattan skyline and Hudson River, enjoy the chic décor and beautiful jazz music—just loud enough to keep the party going. The chill ambiance certainly brings in a stylish, upscale crowd. Step out to the large outdoor area, and you’ll be provided with a cozy wool blanket, while nestled up by a heat lamp and the crackling fire pit. Before you head up to the lounge, make a reservation downstairs at PRINT—a leading restaurant featuring a New American menu of seasonal, sustainable cuisine.

The Copacabana – 268 West 47^th Street

If you are looking for something with a bit more calorie-burning energy, Copacabana is the choice for you. Just steps away from Times Square, this nightclub features four floors of dancing and an eclectic mix of Latin and hip-hop vibes. The DJs are always open to requests—as long as the dance floor is filled, and the bodies are shaking. There is certainly a reason why this venue has stood the test of time and is perfect for a cosmopolitan New Year’s celebration.

B.B. King Blues Club & Grill – 237 West 42^nd Street

Searching for live music? Then this stunning mahogany bar just off Times Square boasts similar vibes to the House of Blues. The inviting atmosphere always has live performances and often plays tributes to music legends like the Beatles. With a wide range of food options and an impressive selection of beers to choose from, you won’t be disappointed as you soak in the music. Be sure to get through the doors early, as seats are “first come, first served,” but there is truly not a bad place to watch the show in this house. Sip on the crowd-favorite Blues Brew as you enjoy the tunes and celebrate a new year with some serious joy.

The signs are all there: the weather has begun to cool; the clocks have slid back an hour, ushering in 5 pm sunsets; and department store sales ads are showing earlier in the season. It’s official; the holiday season is here. And the opening ceremony, the grandiose introduction to this period of unencumbered wonderment, is undoubtedly Thanksgiving. Thanksgiving does not have all the stress of the later holidays; it’s rather pure in its approach. It’s about family, friends, and food. So, if you’re one of the lucky New Yorkers who recently moved into the 555TEN luxury rentals in Midtown West, this is the perfect opportunity to show off your new digs.

Here’s our 2017 Thanksgiving hosting guide:

Cook Ahead

This one is vital. Leave as little to the last day as possible because there are always hiccups that will arise and cause significant delays. If you leave too much to Thanksgiving Day (or Eve), when the inevitable derailment occurs, things could snowball into calamity, and nobody wants that. Moreover, Thanksgiving Day should be about spending time with your family and friends. Regardless of how stunning the kitchens are in your 555TEN apartment, you don’t want to be stuck there all day. Some dishes obviously need to be left to the day of, but many (and we mean many) can be prepared the night before.

Delegate

We’ve all been to those Thanksgivings when one person cooks nearly everything and never gets to enjoy the holiday. Don’t let this be you. As you’re preparing something, call a friend and ask them to help out. It’s more than likely that you’ll receive many offers of assistance throughout the preparations; graciously accept them!  Moreover, in the lead-up to the day, send out an email and see if anyone is interested in contributing; this will help ease the individual burden and also differentiate the menu a bit. Thanksgiving should be an ensemble performance.

Utilize the Neighborhood

Some people ascribe to this notion that everything served on Thanksgiving needs to be homemade, but we do not agree. You live in New York City, one of the culinary capitals of the world; it would be foolish not to utilize your surroundings.

Carlo’s Bakery, which has been in business for over a century for a good reason, is just a few avenues away, and their cookies and cakes are phenomenal. (Try their Chocolate Cheese Rugelach!)  Amy’s Bread is also right around the block, and their pumpkin pie and their old-fashioned cornbread are both stellar and perfect for Thanksgiving. And just to the east is the acclaimed Little Pie Company. You may be an incredible baker, renowned throughout your family, but the odds of you making a better pie than them are remarkably low. Their sour cream apple walnut pie will blow your mind. Plus, buying a pie is much less work than making one although you should order your pies ahead of time. Last but certainly not least, to the east is the famed Magnolia Bakery at Rockefeller Center. It’s a little more of a trek, but all their stuff is delicious, and we’d recommend grabbing some of their cupcakes to switch it up a bit.

Enjoy Yourself

Since even Mario Batali has things go wrong on Thanksgiving, the key is not to stress over the little mishaps. Be the best host or hostess you can be; show your guests around your sprawling residence; point out the premium finishes as you gaze out over shimmering Manhattan through your massive windows. Hang out; have a drink; converse. Make your friends jealous (but in the nicest way).

Fall is one of the most exciting seasons in New York City, and if you live in one of the luxury apartments for rent at 555TEN, there is no more perfect way to enjoy the city and the season than the building’s all-seasons rooftop lounge. Here, the possibilities for socializing and relaxing—with the city at your feet—are endless, punctuated night and day by breathtaking views of the skyline and the river.

Host a post-brunch cocktail hour for friends after a busy weekend of theater, art openings, and the parties of the season. Take a trip (a few blocks away and all the way to the 1920s) to see The Play That Goes Wrong at the Lyceum Theater and then head back home to make everything right. The bar and lounge atop 555TEN provide a cozy yet festive atmosphere where you can kick back on your home turf and linger into the night. You and your guests can enjoy the views through the floor-to-ceiling windows while the glow of the indoor/outdoor fireplace warms your skin. For a more exclusive get-together, you can even book the indoor space for up to four hours. The sunset and the city will make their own show for you as the autumn breezes glance off the river and the buildings of Midtown West.

In this unique amenity overlooking Midtown West, urban design and nature form a perfect marriage, not just in the views, but also all around you on the roof. Thanks to the landscape designer Steven Tupu’s expertise, you’ll find yourself surrounded by pristine white birch trees chosen for their striking appearance in every season. You can relish the warmth of the indoor lounge and gaze at the carefully curated grasses and plants, which—like the landscaping on the High Line—stand and bend with the weather and create eye-catching moments within the larger outdoor space.

These plantings also provide green habitats for birds from near and far, another striking reminder that even in the city—and in the cooler weather—you are never far from nature when you make your home in one of 555TEN’s luxury rentals. Meanwhile, your guests, lulled by the natural beauty and the glistening lights of Manhattan and New Jersey, may get so comfortable they will feel like you’ve just taken them on vacation.

Hudson Yards’ Down to Earth Farmers Market is one of most dynamic markets in the city. The “there’s something for everyone” trope is wildly overused, so we’ll just say this: if you enjoy fresh produce, vibrant soups and salads, mouthwatering baked goods, authentic kimchi and every kind of pickle your heart desires, you’ll love this place. From June through the middle of November, vendors from all over New York and New Jersey come to display their meticulously crafted fare. Fortunate residents of the 555TEN luxury rentals are right down the block from this charming market, which runs every Thursday from 10am-6pm through November 16th.

Here’s a rundown of some of our favorite vendors at the market:

Horman’s Pickles

Since the 1950s, the Horman family has been in the pickle business, and it shows. According to the “Picklosophy” section of their website, Nick Horman states that after graduating college, he realized his mission in life was to “create quality pickles that could show people what a pickle could, and should, be.” He takes pickles seriously. From classic dill and bread & butter to brown mustard, horseradish, sweet cajun, spicy sour, and a variety called “red flannel,” their pickles make sure that all taste buds feel welcome.

Kimchi Kooks

Many New Yorkers see kimchi as a chic, new superfood, but the art of preparing fresh kimchi began over 1,500 years ago, in Korea. The owner of Kimchi Kooks, Kate Kook, is continuing the tradition while adding a contemporary flair. As Kook notes, her technique has been passed down for generations. What truly separates Kook’s kimchi is how she plays off that foundation to create intriguing products like kale kimchi and cabbage and beets kimchi, which sit alongside original white kimchi and other classic varieties.

Nemeth Orchards

Nemeth Orchards has been selling their fare at farmers markets in the city for 30 years, and by all accounts, they’ve been a hit from day one. You’d be hard-pressed to find a fresher or more delicious apple pie than Nemeth’s. Everything they sell, from their sinfully sweet muffins and pastries to their aromatic apple cider, is made from the apples and berries they grow. On a brisk fall evening, there is nothing better than some warm pie from Nemeth.

Simply Soupreme

Fresh soup is another seasonal staple, and Simply Soupreme has you covered and then some. Their line of dairy-free, gluten-free, carrageenan-free, additive-free, drinkable soups not only cater to an array of dietary restrictions, but they are filled with nutrients and are (most importantly) delicious. From classics like tomato basil and lemongrass miso to more avant-garde options like cucumber mint, carrot ginger, pumpkin pie, and butternut-apple flavors, there’s something for all palates here.

These are just a few of the vendors frequenting the Down to Earth Market this fall. Click here for a full rundown.

Going green
Pining to get away from it all, but with no time for a vacation? You can always escape to the Hudson River Greenway. At 11 miles—and running close to the no-fee rentals at 555TEN—this is the longest greenway in all Manhattan. No wonder, then, that New Yorkers love to explore it, picking out the myriad gems lining the West Side from Battery Park up to Dyckman Street. Before you start plotting your route, though, you need to choose your ride. Allow us to give you a helping hand.

Wheely great choices
Most people who use the Hudson River Greenway choose to do so by bike. But don’t panic if you don’t have a set of wheels—there are plenty of places along the route to grab a rental. Head to a nearby Citi Bike station: assuming you’re setting out from your luxury 555TEN apartment, you’ll easily find one at 11th Avenue & West 41st Street or 9th Avenue & West 39th Street, among other spots. This cheap and easy way of acquiring a cycle means you can be in the saddle just moments after leaving home (and abandon your bike as soon as you feel the urge to get that first beer). Annual memberships and day passes are available, though if you’re toying with the former, it’s worth calling in at Enoch’s Bike Shop on 10th Avenue, Midtown West. Since 1983, these guys have been kitting out New Yorkers with the best Masis, Haros, and KHSs. Trust us, your wheels are in good hands.

Of course, there are other ways to travel along the Greenway. If you’re planning to skate or blade, take a trip south to Uncle Funkys Boards and score yourself a Loaded Fattail or Arbor Rally. Newbie? No matter: they do lessons, too. Or, if you prefer to keep it simple, get yourself a pair of sneakers and take a walk.

Greenway gems
Wheeling along the Hudson River Greenway, you get a fresh perspective on NYC—and you’re guaranteed to see things you’ve never noticed before, no matter how long you’ve lived in Manhattan.

The “Greenway” isn’t called that for nothing. Running through no fewer than five parks (Battery Park, Hudson River Park, Riverside Park South, Riverside Park, and Fort Washington Park), there’s verdant scenery everywhere. Either feast your eyes as you whiz past or make a couple of scenic stop-offs en route to your final destination.

Parks aside, every itinerary is different. Perhaps you’ll call in at one of the concerts they have at West Harlem Piers. Or admire the boats at Seventy-Ninth Street Boat Basin. Or even learn something new at the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum. Then you can reward yourself at Tribeca Grill, while plotting out the stops for your next Greenway jaunt.

Landscape architect Steven Tupu, a principal with Terrain NYC, is responsible for 555TEN’s green spaces, from its playful rooftop garden and dog run to the subtle Japanese maple trees that welcome residents and visitors at the building’s entrance. Tupu was inspired by what he characterizes as 555TEN’s “infrastructural landscape,” its proximity to the Hudson River, and its tall perch in the heart of Midtown Manhattan. Considering 555TEN’s context in every direction and during every season of the year, he arranged birch trees to bring shade and texture to the rooftop garden and selected a variety of grasses to give the landscaped roof distinctive areas while providing the lush and colorful texture that he grew to love in his native New Zealand.

What is it about 555TEN’s location that makes it such a compelling site for landscaping?

Looking south and west, there’s the end of the High Line and the view across the Hudson River to New Jersey. 555TEN is located at the edge of an “infrastructural landscape,” and this location provides a unique view of the urban skyline and the expanse of the Hudson River.

What might residents find surprising about 555TEN’s location?

555TEN is so ideally located for city-dwellers—right in the heart of the Theater District and close to the transportation hub of Times Square—that it’s easy to forget that it sits right next to the scenic Hudson River. The landscapes include lush terraces that add native plant habitats for local and migratory birds and pollinators. New York is part of the natural world, even if it doesn’t always seem that way.

How did you develop your special expertise in urban landscaping?

I’m a native of Wellington, New Zealand, a famously verdant country. We are also a nation of gardeners, and we are used to making the most of small spaces. These early experiences and that natural backdrop inspire my vision for the urban landscapes I design for Terrain NYC.

What features of 555TEN were most inspirational for Terrain NYC’s landscaping process?

At 555TEN, the deep setback terrace on the ninth floor and the wraparound terraces provided a unique challenge to develop a design language that could connect these spaces and different amenities with the flexibility to form smaller more intimate spaces.

Plantings of grasses and perennials are grouped in large masses and flow around the exterior columns and glass curtain wall. The colors and textures of the plantings enhance the building’s facade, starting with the Japanese maple that greets visitors at the front entrance. Having been involved early in the design process, my team and I were able to take full advantage of the tall building’s structured setbacks. That’s where the amenities suite opens onto the spectacular south-facing terrace and dog run and the more intimate yoga terrace along the northern edge.

Does the landscaping shape the experience of 555TEN for pets, too?

Yes! At the southwest edge of the amenity terrace is a dog run and viewing area that includes built-in timber bleacher seating for owners to socialize on and playful timber topographic mounds that define running circuits for the dogs to explore.

Is color and shape part of the landscape design process for 555TEN as well?

Very much so. For New York City’s multiseason climate, we selected four-season birch trees that are green in the spring, white and serene in fall and winter, and able to provide light shade from the sun in the summer. With 555TEN’s architectural palette including matte bronze and stainless steel, the green variety of Japanese maple was also a natural fit. We also chose tall native grasses for the terrace landscaping. They are dynamic in the breeze and provide a soft edge, helping to define the various spaces.

How does 555TEN become part of the natural world, thanks to Terrain NYC’s landscaping?

Native shrubs, grasses, and perennials serve another function in providing much-needed habitats for birds and pollinators. As with the High Line, 555TEN’s terraces are green oases for people, pets, and even wildlife, and we designed them as integrated pockets of nature and social spaces at the bustling crossroads of Midtown Manhattan.