Lexington Avenue, New York

Running one-way southbound for its entire length, from 131st to 21st Streets, Lexington Avenue is largely commercial at the ground level, with offices above. Alongside the clusters of hotels in the 30s and 40s, there are numerous structures on Lexington designated as New York City Landmarks, National Historic Landmarks, and National Register of Historic Places.

Still, when it comes to attractions, the avenue is known primarily for its unique and more affordable shopping that makes Lexington stand out from the more touristy neighbors like Madison, Park, and Fifth Avenues. Most of Lexington's shops are relatively little-known outlets offering rather specific products. Transitioning from Midtown to the Upper East Side, the 20-block stretch from 50th to 69th street houses a variety of small stores, including jewelry, shoe, and home furnishing boutiques.

Among the ones worth visiting here are Elle W Collection, a high-end antique jewelry and home furnishings dealer (864 Lexington Avenue); Pan American Pheonix, specialized in hand-made Mexican clothing, accessories, and pottery; Diane B. Lady Shoes (at 63rd street) for women's shoes and handbags; and Galo (at 63rd street) for men's and women's comfortable and reasonably priced footwear, including comfortable shoes for wedding. And if you're shopping for a gift, stop by Le Sabon and Baby Too (at 64th street), which carries dainty gift items and adorable baby shower gifts.

Lexington Avenue is also home to a number of well-known retailers, such as Bloomingdale's, Zara, Levi's, and Nine West, offering a wide range of clothing, from moderately priced to some rather expensive, trendy garments.