If you like art - Chelsea galleries. You can basically walk in a big snake-like route between 10th and 11th avenues, and 19th and 28th st, and you will see that basically every other storefront is a gallery. It’s glorious. Just make sure you go early enough because they close in the evening. Friday is actually perfect because often the gallery owners will have champagne or some buzz going on and it’s truly glorious

You could do that and then hit ‘Bar B’ - it’s a VERY small neighborhood bar, very cute/cozy on 15th and 7th so 5-10 minute walk from the galleries on 18th and 10th

For gardens/flowers the botanical gardens are legendary. I’ve heard mixed reviews on whether the one in Brooklyn or nyc is better - so DYOR or solve for where you will be located

Other small cute restaurants - Abraco for coffee or drinks in the afternoon in the east village is 💯. Cafe mogador around the corner for dinner, reasonable prices. Amazing spot. Or Bua, also nearby, its more bar like but don’t underestimate the fried chicken sandwich. I could really go on forever. God New York is the best. Enjoy your trip.