By: Zoey Martinez

Manhattan is a music hub. When thinking about a music hub, people tend to think of live music and concerts, but the simplicity of listening to music with headphones on is often overlooked. 

The feeling of listening to your favorite music – whether that is pop, rap, country, R&B, or folk – is unmatched. Wearing headphones also comes with the privilege of skipping or repeating a specific song as much as you’d like. That being said, Manhattan is one of, if not the best, places in the world to listen to music solo. So, I have compiled a few of my favorite listening spots in the city so far. 

  1. Rooftop of Stavros Niarchros Foundation Library: Located at 455 Fifth Avenue in Midtown, this open-air rooftop is perfect for a sunny afternoon listening session. Especially because it is free and open to the public! There are a few tables, but they will fill up quickly on a sunny day.  The rooftop ambiance allows you to immerse yourself in music while enjoying the skyline views of Midtown. 
  2. The Subway: An obvious one, but just so quintessential. No matter where you are going, enjoying your playlist alone is an escape from the busyness of city life, transforming mundane commutes into personal musical bliss.
  3. The High Line: Known as one of the best fusions of urban and natural spaces in the city, the High Line creates a safe, walkable space for your listening pleasures. This 1.45-mile-long elevated trail on the west side is just perfect for a music-filled afternoon stroll. 
  4. The Union Square Farmers Market: Although being aware of your surroundings is a must for this event, especially on a Saturday morning, the Union Square Market is a lively place that is perfect for your favorite tunes. You can enjoy the sights of the market, devour pastries, or relax on a bench in the park. Either way, the vibrant atmosphere provides the optimal backdrop for your listening experience.
  5. Literally any bagel shop on a Saturday morning: Let me preface by saying, in the most obvious way possible, you have to be acutely aware in a bagel shop. So, pay enough attention so you know when it is your turn to order. That being said, enjoying a bagel alone while listening to music is therapy.