727 5th Avenue @ 57th Street

This fine jewelry store was founded in 1837 by Charles Tiffany, father of artisan Louis Comfort Tiffany. The store rose to international prominence in the late 19th century, and attained icon status when Truman Capote’s novella Breakfast at Tiffany’s was made into a movie starring Audrey Hepburn in 1961. “The only thing that does any good,” says Hepburn (as the vivacious Holly Golightly), “is to jump in a cab and go to Tiffany’s. Calms me down right away.” Inside the 5th Avenue entrance, the main floor showcases contemporary creations in gold and precious stones; many are diamond–studded and cost as much as a small car, but browsing is always free.