There are few New Yorkers who have intimate knowledge of some of the city's most hectic areas. However, star of screen and stage Megan Hilty traverses Manhattan's urban jungle daily en route to the Lunt-Fontanne Theatre to take her place as Madeline Ashton in the Broadway adaptation of the iconic film Death Becomes Her. Tackling the Theater District is common for Hilty who made her mark in musicals including 9 to 5: The Musical, Wicked, and her Tony Award-nominated performance in Noises Off. However, this latest role sees Hilty show off her comedy and musical talents alongside a cast including former Destiny's Child member Michelle Williams. And while we won't spoil the show entirely, fans of the film will be pleased to know that all the dramatic and fantastical elements, including the iconic head spin and gaping stomach hole, are featured.
Below, discover Hilty's New York filled with bright lights, big city energy, and lots of fun. And make sure to check out more insights from our Inspectors, chefs, and celebrities on where to go in Manhattan.
What is your favorite hotel?
My absolute favorite place to stay, eat, enjoy a night out (and occasionally work) in New York City is The Carlyle, a Two MICHELIN Key hotel. Now, I am definitely partial to this beloved landmark because I am lucky enough to be one of the performers who takes up residency at Café Carlyle. And when I do, my family and I actually get to stay there for the duration of our run. Every time, we get to see first-hand how the staff at the hotel go to such great lengths to make you feel welcome: from the monogrammed pillowcases to the elevator operators knowing us by name. I also have never felt more glamorous than when I’m having a drink at Bemelmans. These details, along with wonderful memories, make The Carlyle feel like the most fabulous home away from home.
Where do you go to de-stress?
The Mandarin Oriental Spa is possibly the only place in the city where I have been able to completely unplug and totally relax. The services feel like they are more than just a facial or just a massage. There is some extra magic here that makes me feel like I’m really taking care of myself in a deeply restorative way.What's your favorite outdoor space?
I have two kids who require a lot of outdoor time to “get their wiggles out,” so we spend a lot of time in Central Park, exploring the giant rocks and massive trees. The farther north you go, the better. My absolute favorite spot is a duck pond up near 97th St. I have really fond memories of pushing my daughter in a stroller around that pond when she was a baby. It’s awesome to walk with her now, ten years later, in that same special place.
What is your go-to take-out spot?
For a long time, I thought the best cookie in New York came from Levain Bakery…now, let it be known that I still very much LOVE Levain cookies, but my castmates at Death Becomes Her have me hooked on something even better. If you’re looking for the best chocolate chip cookie in the city, head to Culture Espresso on 38th Street and, if possible, try to eat it while it’s still warm...yum!What is your favorite specialty shop?
Every theater person knows that when you need a fun, unique gift, you must go to Delphinium Home on West 47th Street. It’s packed with delightful things you never knew you needed - they’ll be seeing me a LOT this holiday season!Address Book
The Carlyle, A Rosewood Hotel
35 E 76th St, New York, NY 10021
Central Park
New York, NY
Culture Espresso
72 W 38th St, New York, NY 10018
Delphinium Home
353 W 47th St, New York, NY 10036
The Spa at Mandarin Oriental, New York
80 Columbus Cir, New York, NY 10023
Culture Espresso
72 W 38th St, New York, NY 10018
Hero image: Tony Matula of MA2LA / Megan Hilty
