Only in New York

New York City, a global magnet for fashion designers, hosts the most prestigious events in the industry. The city’s avenues are home to the leading designer brands in grand, cathedral-like spaces, while the cross streets are dotted with boutiques of all sizes. There’s New York Fashion Week, and then there's The Met Gala, a league of its own. This preeminent fashion event, held on the grand steps of The Metropolitan Museum of Art, marks the grand opening of the museum’s annual fashion exhibition. The Met Gala is not just a red carpet spectacle—it’s an exclusive, high-profile fundraiser. What started as a small intimate benefit in 1948 has since evolved into fashion’s most exclusive night, a privilege reserved for the crème de la crème of the industry.

Yoko Ono's art installation, Dream Together, displayed on the facade of The Metropolitan Museum of Art in 2020. Photo Credit: Alexi Rosenfeld, GETTY IMAGES.

The 2025 theme is “Superfine: Tailoring Black Style," which delves into the rich legacy of Black dandyism. Drawing on Monica L. Miller’s *Slaves to Fashion*, the theme examines heritage, distinction, and self-expression through fashion. Previous themes have spanned history, art, and culture, from “Camp: Notes on Fashion” to “Heavenly Bodies: Fashion and the Catholic Imagination.” Each year, designers and celebrities transform the red carpet into a living exhibition, pushing the creative boundaries of fashion and calling on the biggest names in the industry to help them stand out.

The Costume Institute exhibition, 'Superfine: Tailoring Black Style,' will be open to the public starting May 10. This year's gala theme is influenced by fashion history, and the 2025 exhibition explores the legacy of Black dandyism by showcasing exquisite garments, paintings, and photographs from the 18th century to today. Designed to celebrate self-expression, elegance, and power through fashion, this exhibit is a must-visit for style enthusiasts who want to get a closer look at the artistic vision behind the Met Gala.

Zendaya attends The 2024 Met Gala Celebrating "Sleeping Beauties: Reawakening Fashion" at The Metropolitan Museum of Art on May 06, 2024 in New York City. Photo CREDIT: Jamie McCarthy/Getty Images.

While the Met Gala itself is invite-only, the excitement it generates spills into the streets of New York City, making it an exhilarating time to visit. As the weather turns, New York City experiences mild temperatures that are perfect for walking during the day and reveling at night. Whether you’re hoping to catch a glimpse of celebrities, explore the fashion scene, or simply soak in the glamorous energy, NYC offers plenty of ways to experience the magic of the Met Gala. The anticipation and buzz of the Gala week are palpable, adding an extra layer of thrill to your visit.

Stay in Style: The Fifth Avenue Hotel

Glamorous stays are never far from the sidewalk in the city. The boutique luxury experience you’re looking for is at The Fifth Avenue Hotel—an opulent yet intimate stay in the heart of NoMad. Housed in a 19th-century Renaissance-style mansion, this newly reimagined retreat blends historic grandeur with modern design from the visionary mind of Stockholm-born designer Martin Brudnizki. The interiors are a cabinet of curiosities adorned with painted columns, pleated silk canopies, and rainbow-hued chandeliers, creating a space that feels both transportive and undeniably New York.

Beyond its striking aesthetics, The Fifth Avenue Hotel delivers on exclusivity with sumptuous suites, a flâneur-inspired penthouse with a Japanese garden and soaking tub, and personalized butler service ready to craft the perfect martini in-room. Dining is equally indulgent at Café Carmellini, a refined yet playful restaurant by acclaimed chef Andrew Carmellini, featuring a menu inspired by Italian and French influences. As a retreat from the city's buzz, this lavish yet eclectic haven is a prime destination for those who want to soak in the glamour of the Gala season while experiencing one of NYC’s most distinctive luxury hotels.

Michelin-Starred Indulgence: Le Bernardin

For a dining experience that matches the prestige of Met Gala week, look no further than Le Bernardin, one of NYC’s most celebrated Michelin three-star restaurants. Helmed by Chef Eric Ripert, this iconic seafood institution is known for its exquisite French techniques and ultra-fresh ingredients. The menu highlights delicate dishes such as thinly pounded yellowfin tuna layered with foie gras and toasted baguette or the signature poached lobster with buttered leeks and black truffle sauce. With its sleek, modern ambiance and impeccable service, Le Bernardin is an ideal spot to toast to a glamorous night in the city.

Walk it off on the High Line to Chocolate Delights.

May in New York means getting outside is a must. During the day, head over to the west side to walk the High Line. Built atop a historic freight rail line, this elevated park offers stunning views of the city skyline, the Hudson River, and modern art installations along the way. A stroll here lets you experience NYC’s dynamic energy, with beautifully landscaped gardens, rotating public art exhibits, and trendy cafés nearby. Whether you’re taking in the sunset or enjoying a peaceful afternoon break, The High Line provides a perfect contrast to the glitz of Met Gala week.

Take the Next Exit

Walking the High Line? There’s a treat off the 20th Street exit. Walk east from 10th Avenue, and when you find yourself between 6th and 5th Avenue, stay ready. 27 West 20th Street holds a secret celebrated in the New York Times, but only those in the know can find. Take the elevator to the 9th floor and head to Suite 904.

Highline, Manhattan downtown. Photo Credit: RAWF8, iStock / Getty Images Plus.

Chocolat Moderne is a must-visit boutique chocolate shop located in the heart of Manhattan. Joan Coukos is a renowned artisanal chocolatier known for her innovative flavor combinations and commitment to high-quality ingredients. Each chocolate assortment is a vibrant, ever-changing selection, crafted using Valrhona chocolate from France, known for its high cocoa content and emphasis on growing regions. With a commitment to premium ingredients like European-style butter, fresh fruit purées, premium liqueurs, and a selection of five different dark chocolates, Chocolat Moderne ensures an unforgettable tasting experience. With no preservatives or artificial flavorings, every bite is a celebration of purity and craftsmanship.

Luxury Redefined: The Mark Hotel

Nestled on the Upper East Side, The Mark Hotel is a long-time favorite for Met Gala attendees and A-list celebrities. Designed by Jacques Grange, the hotel offers ultra-modern luxury, combining Art Deco elegance with bold, contemporary touches. The lavish suites with marble soaking tubs, personalized 24-hour room service, and a private Jean-Georges dining experience make it an unforgettable stay.

What sets The Mark apart is its exclusive services, such as private chartered yacht experiences and custom shopping excursions at Bergdorf Goodman. If you’re looking to live like a fashion insider during the Met Gala season, The Mark is a top-tier choice.

Michelin-Starred Dining: Per Se

For another extraordinary meal, Per Se, Thomas Keller’s Michelin three-star restaurant, is an unparalleled fine dining experience. Overlooking Columbus Circle, the restaurant is known for its nine-course tasting menu, which changes seasonally but always features Keller’s signature Oysters and Pearls—sabayon of pearl tapioca with Island Creek oysters and white sturgeon caviar. The intimate atmosphere, flawless execution, and stunning views make it the perfect place for a refined, post-Gala evening.

Soho, New York City. Photo credit: Golero, iStock / Getty Images Plus.

-Fashion Shopping: SoHo’s Designer Boutiques

If the Met Gala inspires you to revamp your wardrobe, SoHo’s luxury boutiques are the place to make your ideas a reality. High-end designers like Dior, Prada, and Saint Laurent line the cobblestone streets alongside curated concept stores like Dover Street Market and KITH. Whether you're shopping for custom couture, streetwear, or statement accessories, SoHo’s blend of historic charm and cutting-edge fashion makes it an essential stop for style lovers.

New York, New York

New York City during the Met Gala is a spectacle of elegance, creativity, and luxury. From the world-renowned fashion houses of Fifth Avenue to the curated culinary experiences at Michelin-starred restaurants, every corner of the city hums with the energy of high fashion. Whether you spend your days exploring artful exhibitions, indulging in couture shopping, or enjoying scenic walks through iconic neighborhoods, the spirit of the Met Gala lingers far beyond the steps of The Met.

To make your journey as smooth as it is exhilarating, trust Air Charter Guide to provide comprehensive and up-to-date flight booking information, ensuring every step of your travel is seamless and stress-free—so you can focus on embracing the city’s unmatched glamour.