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If you’re Swedish, you’ve recently visited Sweden, or you just like Swedish meatballs, you won’t have trouble finding a little piece of the Scandinavian country in the US. Check out where to scope out Swedish culture, goods, sweets and meals while in Manhattan.

Culture

-Imported to the United States from Sweden in 1876, the Swedish Cottage Marionette Theatre in Central Park has been a library, a tool house, and the headquarters for the Civil Defense during WWII. Today the wooden cottage is used for marionette and puppet shows, as well as kid birthday parties. It’s located off the 79th Street Transverse in Central Park, right near the Belvedere Castle. See map.

-The Scandinavia House is a cultural center that celebrates Sweden, Denmark, Finland, Iceland and Norway. It plays host to concerts, film screenings, literature lectures, language courses, and more. Visit its onsite restaurant for Scandinavian fare or browse the free art gallery. 58 Park Ave.

Eat

-Add variety to your palette by dining at the high-end spot for Scandinavian flavors, Aquavit. The restaurant won two Michelin stars in 2018 and three stars from the New York Times. Chef Emma Bengtsson is acclaimed for her carefully prepared, modern Scandinavian dishes. Make a reservation in advance. Located at 65 E. 55th St. in Midtown.

-Further downtown you’re likely to spot Fika, a Swedish coffee and espresso bar that also has a limited menu. Note: “Fika” means “a coffee and cake break” in Swedish, an admittedly agreeable proposal in any culture. Enjoy a Swedish pastry with a coffee, or even Swedish meatballs. The closest Fika located to Hotel Beacon can be found at 824 10th Ave. in Hell’s Kitchen.

-Specialists in “New Nordic Cuisine,” Smörgås Chef serves up fare harvested from its 150-acre farm in the Catskills. It’s affordable, fresh and well-presented, perfect if you’re unfamiliar with the cuisine and curious to try out some dishes. Best of all, it’s located right in the Scandinavia House on 58 Park Ave.

Shop

-Don’t worry, we won’t send you to Ikea or H&M. For a fine Swedish clothing brand, visit Fjällräven. The outdoor gear and apparel company is most recognized for their trusty (and adorable) backpacks. They’re neat, sturdy and smartly designed. Fjällräven has two locations in NYC - the flagship location at 38 Greene St. in Soho or 262 Mott St. in Nolita. Expect high quality at high prices.

-It’s no secret that the Swedes love candy. Sockerbit is a Swedish candy store offering brightly colored candies in an expectedly muted candy shop. Their charming selection of smågodis are free of trans fats, artificial colorants and GMO ingredients. They’re so pleasing to the eye you almost feel bad eating them. Check out Sockerbit at 89 Christopher St. in Greenwich Village.

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Perfect for families or a comfortable stay in New York City, Hotel Beacon will make you feel at home. Rooms are equipped with kitchenettes and on-site laundry is available. See special offers and learn more.