 |
| Photo by B.P. |
Macy's Herald Square first opened it's doors 155 years ago in 1858. Orginally known as R.H. Macy's & Co., it has occupied its present location, 34th Street and Broadway, for the last 111 years. Last year the landmark building began a full scale rennovation of the entire store.
Over the weekend I paid a visit. I can always find exactly what I want at Macy's. Actually, I can turn into a frenzied fashionistra -- finding tons of merchandise to buy at Macy's -- which is why I don't go near the place unless I truly need something.
It has phenomenal sales -- 40% off and higher -- usually around 3-day holiday weekends like the 4th of July. Stop at the visitor's center to show your passport, or out-of-state driver's license and get an extra 10% discount on all your purchases. The visitor's center is located in the cellar, on the Broadway side of the building.
Below is the floor plan of the 9½ story, spruced-up department store. The cellar adds a 10th floor. The interior looks shiny and new, but the departments have not shifted much, which is a good thing. I don't know about you, but I only like a change if it's an improvement. If you know Macy's layout, you can still find familiar departments, mostly in their old spaces. Click the image below, then hit "command" and "+" to enlarge. [If you email me, I'll send you the pdf file, which is cystral clear to read and print.]
You might like sitting in front of Macy's (on Broadway) under the umbrellas, drinking coffee or tea. I miss the days when Macy's sold gourmet deli food. Nowadays you will find Starbucks and several other well-known franchises scattered throughout the store.
You may also enjoy:
Hi Debra, a great post which brings back happy memories for me. My first overseas trip we went first to New York, and our hotel was close to Herald Square. My first morning in New York we had breakfast nearby, then went to Macy's. I still remember how fantastic I found it - so well-stocked with just everything. I'm sure the renovations will make it better than ever!!
ReplyDeleteHi Patricia, Macy's holds happy memories for me too. I've attended many fashion events there over the years and love going during the Christmas season. As part of a group, I've taken underprivileged kids to see Santa and shop for toys, which is great fun! They love it, and I have an excuse to be in Santaland, for the kids, of course. :) Then in the spring there's the flower show ... exotic flowers all over the main floor. So lovely!
ReplyDeleteDepending on the commuting patterns, I am in Macy's several times a week, albeit only on the first floor. The place is much brighter. Men's department seems to be split between first floor and the basement- where I have not ventured down. It's set up for good impulse buying of watches- there is a huge watch department. Once in a while, there are good sales on men's shirts- though their good publicity turns the shopping into a scrum with dozens of other shoppers. Looking forward to some of their excellent decorations inside on the first floor- such as the flower show that you mentioned, main building (ladies handbags, cosmetics). Sales are good- though for image/ branding purposes, they should consider keeping prices higher.
ReplyDelete@Barry: "Keeping their prices high for branding purposes?" I lke that they don't. They have plenty of exclusive inventory that average people can't afford, but Macy's is for everybody. I love that. Plus, I'd never frown on the practice of offering great sales. Nooo. It haven't hurt them.
ReplyDeleteFurther to previous post- I can report that my daughter (the consummate shopper, unlike her father) is buying sunglasses, polarized, non-prescription, at Macy's. Actually, I am buying them, she is picking them out and putting them on hold. No sales involved- you are correct that there is a nice selection of items (inventory) that is not sale priced.
ReplyDeleteAlso I should mention that I have picked some nice shirts, on impulse, just walking thru that ground floor on the way to the train. Usually they are "on sale" but if items are always marked down, I question whether the sticker price was not bumped upward in the first place. Nevertheless- good value on nice mens dress shirts.
It's perfect time to make a few plans for the future and it is time to be happy. I've read this submit and if I
ReplyDeletecould I desire to suggest you few attention-grabbing things or advice.
Perhaps you could write next articles referring to this article.
I desire to read even more things approximately it!
http://cylinder-boring.com/groups/instant-face-lift-reviews/
Feel free to surf to my web blog :: wrinkle cream