Taylor Swift has long been open about her love for New York City, with her 2014 move inspiring her album, 1989. The city became a central theme in her music, with the opening track of the album, “Welcome to New York,” referencing her newfound happiness in the bustling metropolis. Swift was even named an official Global Welcome Ambassador for the city. Throughout her career, she has continued to reference various New York landmarks in her songs.
One iconic New York landmark referenced by Swift is the Chelsea Hotel, where many famous artists have resided over the years. The hotel, also known as Hotel Chelsea, has a rich history and is located in the heart of Manhattan’s Chelsea neighborhood. The Queen Anne revival and Victorian Gothic architecture of the building make it a true New York City landmark that has also been recognized on the National Register of Historic Places.
Another place that holds a special meaning for Swift is Cornelia Street in the West Village neighborhood. The singer wrote a song about the charming street on her Lover album, reminiscing about falling in love with former boyfriend Joe Alwyn while living there. While the relationship may have ended, Cornelia Street remains an important location for Swift and her fans.
Swift has also shown love for the East Village in her music, describing the trendy neighborhood as “aglow” in her song “Welcome to New York.” In “Delicate,” she mentions a “dive bar on the East Side,” possibly referring to Lovers of Today. Swift also filmed a scene at the Housing Works Bookstore in the East Village for the All Too Well short film, further showcasing her admiration for the area.
The High Line, an elevated walkway stretching from the Meatpacking District to Hudson Yards, is another New York City landmark mentioned by Swift in her song “Cardigan.” Originally a rail trail, the High Line was transformed into a unique outdoor space in 2009. Swift’s lyrical references to the High Line add a touch of the city’s charm to her music, allowing fans to connect with New York in a new way through her songs.
Coney Island, an iconic neighborhood in Brooklyn featuring a boardwalk and amusement park, inspired a song on Swift’s Evermore album. The track, written with The National’s Aaron Dessner, tells the story of a couple’s memories at the landmark. Fans can visit Coney Island to experience the same nostalgia and fun described in the song, enjoying a Nathan’s hot dog and a ride on the Ferris wheel. Swift’s ability to capture the essence of New York City in her music showcases her deep connection to the city and its landmarks, allowing fans to explore the city through her songs.
