Being a tourist in New York City can be a fairly intimidating experience. Most American suburbanites aren’t used to walking or accumulating the amount of mileage that’s necessary to traverse the city. The up and down of subway stairs can also be daunting. But all that is considered minor when you’re faced with the dilemma of needing to find public rest room. Most restaurants and small stores are not required to have public restrooms. What makes matters worse is that they don’t usually feel obliged to let you use theirs even if you ask. So where does a visitor look? To begin with you can be confident that a large department store will always have a rest room. Bloomingdales at 58th and Lexington has a clean, well maintained rest room although it may be hard to find. You’ll definitely have to ask a salesperson for directions. On the other hand, Macy’s at 34th and Broadway has a large restroom that almost always has a long line. It seems that it’s the home away from home for many stragglers. It’s not the nicest, but in a pinch it will do. Nowadays most Starbucks can accommodate you but a token is necessary and you might get a dirty look if you don’t at least buy a cup of decaf.

My absolute favorite and one of the most reliable restrooms is in one of the top New York City hotels. The legendary Plaza Hotel at Central Park South and 59th St. has lovely rest rooms in the basement level. Visiting this ladies room can be one of the finer moments of your vacation. You enter the lounge which large room with many sofas where you’ll find a place to rest or simply get your packages in order. Near the door you are greeted by a smiling attendant in a starched uniform who will direct you to the next available stall. After you finish washing your hands a paper towel is politely handed to you. On the counter there’s a selection of hand lotions and other niceties for your use. It’s then you notice the discreet plate piled high with coins and cash. No reason to worry, tipping is optional. However, if you do feel inclined to express your gratitude for this bit of civility, one dollar will provide a sufficient thank you.

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4. The Botanical Garden of New York City
5. An Exhibit of the Women of the New York City Business World