POCKET GUIDE TO New york Where New York Begins DOWNLOAD FREE FLIGHT & HOTEL APP HERE The New York Guide Welcome to your very own pocket guide to New York. Whether you’re using your mobile, tablet, or laptop you can consult this guide and start discovering the brilliant best of the Big Apple. From essentials like taking transport from the airport and changing your holiday spending money into US Dollars to experiencing the staggering heights of landmarks like the Empire State Building and the Statue of Liberty, we’ve done all the research so you can focus on enjoying your trip! Take a look at the Broadway Shows, step inside the bars and nightclubs, and get a taste of the restaurants you should sample. This guide provides everything you need to know to witness the bright lights and big city atmosphere of New York City. Let the exploration (and the fun) begin! CONTINUE TO GUIDE MAIN MENU BASICS TOURIST ATTRACTIONS NEW YORK FOR YOU GUIDE BY BOROUGH MAIN MENU SELECT AN OPTION TV & MOVIE TOURS BROADWAY BABIES FOOD ENTHUSIASTS SOUND HOUNDS FASHIONISTAS CULTURE VULTURES PARTY ANIMALS CONTRIBUTORS MAIN MENU Basics You’re in New York City… the Big Apple… the City That Never Sleeps. Just like the Sinatra song, you will want to be a part of it. You can do that, but there are a few things you should know first. In this section we’ll tell you about the kind of weather you can expect, the currency to take and how to get out and about around the city. Pack your holiday gear, load your wallet and get ready to climb aboard. Follow our tips for international travellers and let the New York City adventure begin! WEATHER AIRPORT & TRANSFERS MONEY TRANSPORT TRAVELLER TIPS BASICS WEATHER Autumn In autumn the average high temperature is around 15.5°C to 21.1°C (60°F to 70°F) and the leaves begin to fall. The nights are cooler and the daytime temperature is perfect for exploring the city. During autumn, the city enjoys an average of 7.5 hours per day of sunlight. Winter Naturally, New York grows cold in winter, but it is also fairly dry. The temperatures range from between -5°C and 3°C (23°F and 37.4°F) and the city enjoys roughly 5.5 hours of daylight, rising closer to 6 hours in January and February. Snow in the city is not uncommon. Spring Say goodbye to the colder temperatures of wintertime New York as spring ushers in milder temperatures of between 5°C and 15°C (41°F and 59°F). The light starts to hold for an average of 8 hours per day, increasing to as many as 10 as spring rolls on. Summer Weather-wise temperatures hover between 20°C and 29°C (68°F and 84°F), with average daily highs hitting between 24°C and 27°C (75.2°F to 80.6°F). In June and July the days are long, with approximately 11 hours of sunlight, and August also boasts around 10 hours. Rainfall is minimal in this warm season. BASICS MONEY The US Dollar is the currency used in NYC. You may find the rate for buying dollars is better once you arrive. It’s possible to change money at an ATM, bank or currency exchange office. Tipping between 10% - 20% is customary when you eat out in NYC, while tipping a dollar to your bar tender is also standard. Note that surcharges and taxes may apply for taxi services. BASICS Transport New York is well connected. You can be too, since this section offers information on the different modes of transport in the city, from public mass transit transport to private services. The main transportation network is the Metropolitan Transport Authority (MTA). It provides subway, bus and railroad transportation. Taxis Subways Buses Trams Bicycle TRANSPORT TAXIS An official NYC yellow taxi cab calculates fares based on distance and time, plus tips and tolls, and uses a meter. Taxis charge $0.50 per 1/5 of a mile (or per 60 seconds in slow or non-moving traffic). Travel between 4.00 pm and 8.00 pm adds $1.00 to your fare on weekdays (except holidays), and travel between 8.00 pm and 6.00 am a smaller surcharge of $0.50 regardless of the day. Private car services are also available in New York City. Dial 7 Car and Limo Service, Carmel Super Save, Ozo Car Service and Allstate Car and Limo Service are all good options. TRANSPORT SUBWAYS A ride on the NYC subway costs $2.75 with a MetroCard, whereas a Single Ride ticket will cost you $3.00. You can buy Unlimited MetroCards for either 7 or 30 days, which save you money if you are staying for at least a week, enabling unlimited bus and subway travel (with the exception of Express, PATH and AirTrain). A Pay-Per-Ride MetroCard needs to be loaded with credit. Major stations include the Howard Beach station and the Sutphin Boulevard station, since both offer connections to JFK Airport. There are also stops at some of the city’s main attractions such as Times Square and other famous places like Wall Street. TRANSPORT BUSES When you get on the bus make sure you have the correct change: $2.75, with MetroCard, or $3.00 for a Single Ride ticket (this ticket is only sold at vending machines). If you pay with MetroCard, insert the card into the fare box and it will automatically deduct the fare. If you’ve paid with coins on buses with intersecting routes, you can ask the driver for a transfer card and transfer free between the routes. MetroCard also enables free transfer between local buses and the subway. The time valid for the transfer is two hours from when you paid your fare. TRANSPORT TRAMS The Roosevelt Island Tram is an aerial tram that connects Roosevelt Island with the Upper East Side of Manhattan. The Manhattan station is on 60th Street and Second Avenue. From Sunday to Thursday it runs from 6.00 am to 2.20 am, and on Friday and Saturday from 6.00 am to 3.30 am. The fare is the same as the New York City subway at $2.75 per ride. The tram uses the same MetroCard system as the MTA, and children under 44 inches (3’6”) can ride for free if they’re with a fare-paying adult. The operators recommend purchasing MetroCards from staffed MTA booths at any subway station. TRANSPORT BICYCLE Cycling is allowed on all main and local streets, but not on the pavement, and you must ride your bike in marked paths and lanes where available. Make sure your bike has a front light, a tail light and a bell. It’s a legal requirement to stop at red lights and stop signs, just like you would in the car. The city has a bike sharing system, Citi Bike, which allows you to collect up and deposit bikes at various docking points around New York. One of the best places to cycle is Central Park, and you can also hire bikes here from Central Park Cycle Hire. Why not go on a tour? BASICS Airports and Airport Transfers In this section we provide you with information about New York’s major airports and how you can transfer from them to New York City once your flight has landed (or reach them for the return journey). Bus, subway, taxi or private car — we’ve got it covered for you! John F. Kennedy (JFK) La Guardia (LGA) Newark (EWR) AIRPORTS & TRANSFERS John F. Kennedy (JFK) It’s hard to imagine that John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) was once a golf course, and original plans suggested it would only cover 1,000 acres. Work began on the site in April 1942 and today the airport stands at 4,930 acres — 880 acres of this is occupied by the Central Terminal. JFK has been accommodating international flights since July 1948. Situated 15 miles from mid Manhattan in Queens, the airport was originally called the Idlewild Airport. In memory of the late 35th President of the United States, it was renamed the John F. Kennedy International Airport in 1963. It is now as charismatic as JFK himself, with six terminals accommodating flights for more than 80 airlines — and a whopping 125 gates serving the terminals. Terminals feature an array of places to eat and drink, whether you’re looking for a casual coffee to perk yourself up for early morning travel, or something more filling for an evening flight. There’s even a caviar house in Terminal 4! The terminals also feature stylish shops like Mont Blanc so you can pen elegant postcards from your destination, or Swarovski so you can pick up the finest jewellery. 30 minutes of free Wi-Fi access is available in the terminals too. Getting to and from the airport is easy, with connections to the bus system, subway and Long Island Rail Road system available at the Jamaica and Howard Beach stops. Flying to or from JFK International Airport is an experience. Taxis Subway / Bus Train / Airtrain JFK TAXIS You can take a yellow taxi from JFK International Airport and, depending on the destination and time of day, you may have to pay a surcharge. A trip from the airport to Manhattan is generally charged at a $52 flat rate, plus tolls and tips (tipping is important in New York!). If the peak travel surcharge applies it costs $1 between 4.00 pm and 8.00 pm, and $0.50 between 8.00 pm and 6.00 am. You can also take a private cab to and from the airport with firms like New Golden Horse Car Service or Allstate Private Car and Limousine. Separate rates may apply. JFK SUBWAY / BUS Even in a huge city like New York, taking public transport is straightforward. If you’re catching the subway to or from Lower Manhattan to the airport, you can take the MTA NYC Transit ‘A’ train and stop at the Howard Beach / JFK Airport station. If your port of call is Midtown Manhattan, or from there to the airport, the ‘E’ train is the route to take. Get off at Sutphin Boulevard, Archer Avenue, or JFK Airport station as appropriate. Catching the bus is even easier. The Q3 and Q10 run to Queens, and the B15 goes to East New York. There are subway connections on all of the routes. JFK TRAIN / AIRTRAIN Running 24 hours a day, the AirTrain and other trains make it easy to get to and from New York City. The AirTrain stops at each of the terminal buildings plus other facilities around the airport, like the car parks. The train connects with the Jamaica Station MTA NYC subway E train, which will take you to Mid and Upper Manhattan, and at the same station you can catch the Transit J or A Subway for travel to southern Queens. You can also climb aboard the Transit A subway to Lower Manhattan from the Howard Beach Station. Much quicker is the Long Island Rail Road connection at Jamaica Station to Manhattan Penn Station. This takes less time at 35 minutes, but costs more at $15. AIRPORTS & TRANSFERS La Guardia Airport Sitting eight miles from Midtown Manhattan in the borough of Queens, La Guardia is one of the three major airports in New York and it began life as an amusement park before being transformed into a private airfield in 1929. Taken over by New York City in 1937 and then developed further, the airport reopened in 1939 as New York Municipal Airport – La Guardia Field. Today the airport covers 680 acres, has space for up to 72 aircraft gates and deals with more than 25 million passengers per year. The airport has four main terminal buildings — A, B, C and D — and two main runways. Each of these runways is 7,000 feet long by 150 feet wide. The original terminal, terminal A, had international flights on flying boats back in the 1940s, and the Marine Air terminal was officially designated an historic landmark in 1995. Terminal B, which opened to the public in 1964, serves the majority of the scheduled domestic airlines at the airport, whereas Terminal C has a shuttle section for passengers on hourly flights to Boston and Washington D.C. Meanwhile, Terminal D was given a revamp in the last couple of years. Complimentary 30 minute Wi-Fi service is available throughout the terminals. There are plenty of places to eat at the terminals too, with fast-food favourites such as Dunkin’ Donuts and healthier options like Healthy Gourmet. The airport also provides you with opportunities for a spot of clothes shopping in shops like Desigual and Lacoste. Taxis / Private Car Subway / Bus Shuttle LGA TAXIS / PRIVATE CAR SERVICE There are taxi services in front of all the La Guardia terminals, and you can choose between a private car or a yellow cab. If you prefer a private car, you can try firms such as Dial 7 Car and Limousine or Carmel Super Saver. A yellow cab trip to Lower, Mid or Upper Manhattan will cost you between $25 and $37. If you travel between 4.00 pm and 8.00 pm on weekdays you’ll generally have to pay a $1 surcharge. Trips between 8.00 pm and 6.00 pm incur a surcharge of $0.50. Check the meter when you get into your cab; it should start at $3.00. LGA BUS / SUBWAY La Guardia Airport is well connected. The M60 takes you to Upper Manhattan via Queens. Popular connections are the N and Q subway trains at Hoyt Avenue/31st Street; the 4, 5 and 6 subway trains at Lexington Avenue; and the Metro-North at Park Avenue. If you’re visiting Midtown Manhattan or western Queens, take the Q70 or Q47. Subway connections for the E, F, M, R and 7 trains are available at Roosevelt Avenue/74th Street. Services between La Guardia and Central Queens include the Q72 and Q48. Bus fare is $2.75 ($3.00 for single ride tickets), and you’ll need the exact change. LGA SHUTTLE You can jump onto the shuttle bus at the airport and arrive in Manhattan in no time at all with the NYC Airporter. The service runs seven days a week between 5.30 am and 11.30 pm, departing every 20 to 30 minutes on the hour. You can take it to and from Grand Central, Penn Station, the Port Authority Bus Terminal and Bryant Park. There’s free WiFi on the bus and you can catch a free shuttle to Times Square plus hotels between 23rd and 63rd streets. Tickets are approximately $13 and are valid for up to 90 days after you buy them. AIRPORTS & TRANSFERS Newark (EWR) Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) has a proud history behind it and it has seen numerous improvements throughout the years. The airport is just 14 miles from Manhattan and it plays a crucial part in the New York–New Jersey area. Crossing from Newark into Elizabeth, the airport opened in 1928 and it is the oldest airfield in the US. It also bears the distinction of being the site of the US’s first commercial airline terminal. Newark Liberty International Airport has three main terminals: A, B and C. The oval central terminal consists of 425 acres (originally, the airport itself was built on a mere 68 acres of marshland). Terminal B was expanded from a two level terminal to a three level one. This is also true of Terminal C, which has two departure levels. Getting to and from the airport isn’t a problem, since there is an AirTrain Newark service, which connects from the airport with NJ Transit services to New York and New Jersey. This AirTrain also calls in at various stops around the airport, making it easy to get from terminal to terminal, or even to the car park or an airport hotel. Taxis, private car services and an express bus service are also available to and from the airport to New York City. There are food courts in both terminals A and B, and eateries near the different gates in terminal C, which include sushi bars, steakhouses and Starbucks. You can also access WiFi for 30 minutes free of charge. Taxis / Private Car Shuttle New Jersey Transit Airport Express EWR TAXIS / PRIVATE CAR SERVICE From Newark Liberty International Airport, a yellow taxi cab journey into New York City can cost anywhere between $50 and $70. The local taxi commission also charges an extra $5.50 if you use your credit card to pay. A $5 surcharge is applied during peak travel times on weekdays: 6.00 am to 9.00 am and between 4.00 pm and 7.00 pm. At the weekends this changes so that the charge applies between 12.00 noon and 8.00 pm, to all points in the State of New York. If you prefer a private car service, a range of companies offer airport services. Carmel Super Save and Dial 7 Car and Limo Service are more flexible in terms of the destinations they cover. EWR SHUTTLE It’s possible to book a shuttle from Newark Liberty International Airport through to New York City. This is especially practical if you’re travelling in a group and it allows you to soak up the scenery – and the atmosphere – from the moment you leave the airport. Shuttle companies, such as Super Shuttle and Go Airlink NYC, offer this service. With Super Shuttle you can opt for shared transport, which means you catch the shuttle with others going in your direction, or for a non-stop van that takes you direct to the destination. Go Airlink NYC provides a shared-ride service, plus private transport options such as sedan and SUV services. EWR NEW JERSEY TRANSIT Take the Newark AirTrain and connect with the NJ Transit at the airport. The NJ Transit train provides fast, convenient travel and will transport you from Newark Liberty International Airport to Penn Station, in Manhattan, in 30 minutes. This station connects with the NYC subway, Amtrak and the Long Island Rail Road. A minimum of six trains each hour stop at the airport between 6.00 pm and 9.00 pm, and at least four between 9.00 pm and 12.00 midnight. The fare for the Newark AirTrain is already included in the NJ Transit fare. You will need to pass your ticket through the gates at the station, so keep your ticket. EWR NEWARK AIRPORT EXPRESS The Newark Airport Express bus stops at all three terminals in Newark Liberty International Airport — all of these are on level 1 — and will take you into New York City, stopping in Midtown Manhattan at Grand Central, Bryant Park and the Port Authority Bus Terminal. The service runs regularly, arriving at each stop every 15 minutes throughout the day. Early morning and late night travellers should note that these intervals are slightly longer, at every 30 minutes, before 6.45 am and after 11.15 pm. A one-way ticket will cost $16, or you can purchase a return ticket for $28.00. The service is quick and convenient and operates 365 days a year. BASICS Tips for international travelers 1. Take light, comfortable shoes. This is New York and you’re sure to explore the city on foot! 2. Arrive at the Metropolitan Museum and the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) early. They can retain your interest all day. 3. If you’re going to use the subway a lot, purchase a MetroCard Unlimited for limitless rides on the subway until midnight. 4. Be mindful of the space around you. Don’t stop abruptly on the subway stairs, or block the whole pavement. New Yorkers walk quickly and purposefully, and won’t appreciate bumping into you. 5. Always carry your passport with you. You’re subject to the laws of the state and must be able to prove you have permission to enter and leave it. When planning to travel to New York, check entry requirements online, or with your nearest embassy or consulate. 6. Buy a New York Pass for one-time entry to more than 80 attractions — and queue jumping on arrival! 7. Pushed for time? Take a tour on the hop-on, hopoff bus and see Manhattan in a day! 8. You can stay connected and still appreciate nature in New York. Several public parks, including Central Park, offer free WiFi! 9. Ask for the cross streets when getting directions. This makes it much easier to find your destination. 10. If you are visiting Staten Island, take the ferry from Lower Manhattan and don’t worry about the fare: it’s free! MAIN MENU Top Tourist Attractions Explorers and experience junkies will simply love New York. With its stellar shows, terrific tours, iconic buildings and vibrant venues, plus a host of splendid restaurants, it’s the greatest city in the world to experience something new. Here are a few places where you can revel in the magic of New York. Statue of Liberty Empire State Building Rockefeller Center Times Square Central Park TOURIST ATTRACTIONS STATUE OF LIBERTY The Statue of Liberty is the most famous symbol of freedom and democracy in the world. Standing tall on Liberty Island, the statue watches over New York Harbour. Designed by sculptor Fréderic Bartholdi and engineer Gustave Eiffel, the statue was a gift of friendship from France on the centenary of American Independence in 1846. This inspiring colossus is made from copper, steel and iron, with a design that draws on classical elements and iconography. The statue’s design and construction made it one of the 19th century’s greatest technical achievements. Sightseers can visit the statue’s crown and pedestal – the view of the harbour from the crown is unbelievable. Book Tickets Now OPENING HOURS Summer operating hours at the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island begin Memorial Day weekend. They are in operation from late May until early September. Catch a boat at 8:30am, any day of the week, from either Battery Park in Lower Manhattan or Liberty State Park in Jersey City, New Jersey. Don’t miss the last boats back to NYC, departing at 6:45pm. CONTACT Tel: 1-877-523-9849 Tel: 201-604-2800 Find Out More TOURIST ATTRACTIONS EMPIRE STATE BUILDING 338-350 5th Avenue, New York, NY 10118, USA The Empire State Building truly reaches for the skies with 102 storeys; it boasts both a main deck on the 86th floor and a top deck, which stands on the 102nd. Both decks have observatories for you to take in the views of the city skyline. In 1931, President Hoover opened the building and switched on its lights, and since 1976 the lights have observed a tradition of changing colour to acknowledge different events and organisations throughout the year. The museum features exhibitions such as ‘Dare to Dream’, which tells the story of this immense building and pays tribute to the brilliance of those involved in its creation. Book Tickets Now TRANSPORT Subway: Nearest Subways: 6 to 33rd Street; B/D/F, Q, or 1/2/3 to 34th Street TIMES Open every day: 8:00am to 2:00am. Including all holidays, 365 days a year, rain or shine *The last elevator up is at 1:15AM. Find Out More TOURIST ATTRACTIONS ROCKEFELLER CENTER 338-350 5th Avenue, New York, NY 10118, USA Developed with the firm belief that art is an act of good citizenship, the Rockefeller Center is a major US landmark and a cultural and commercial hub. Sculptures and works of art recount the development of human spirit, science and industry, while the Radio City Music Hall offers performances and tours. Visitors can also take in the Rockefeller Center’s NBC Studios with an entertaining behind-the-scenes tour, or see a popular show here. Round off your visit with a bite to eat in the Rockefeller Center concourse — or refuel for action on the ice rink! Top it all off by capturing the stellar view from the observation deck on the 70th floor. Book Tickets Now TRANSPORT Subway: B D F M TRAINS: Take the B, D, F, or M train to the 47-50th Street Rockefeller Center stop. CONTACT Tel : 212.332.6868 Find Out More TICKET PRICES Adult Child (6-12) Senior (62+) Rock MoMA Combo Sun & Stars (Adult) Sun & Stars (Child) Rockefeller Center Tour Rock Pass $30.00 $24.00 $28.00 $45.00 $45.00 $36.00 $20.00 $42.00 TOURIST ATTRACTIONS TIMES SQUARE Manhattan, NY 10036, United States Visit Times Square, ‘The Crossroads of the World’, and experience this iconic New York City hub. Famed for its New Year celebrations, Times Square in Mid Manhattan is packed with attractions, shops and places to eat and drink: Madame Tussauds, Ripley’s Believe It or Not!, Discovery Times Square and the Hard Rock Café are all there waiting for you to drop by. Dine out on Times Square’s famous ‘Restaurant Row’ before capturing blues, jazz, cabaret and comedy at the various clubs in Times Square, or a musical on Broadway. Better yet, why not do it all? Location CONTACT Tel : (646) 663 – 5872 Find Out More TOURIST ATTRACTIONS CENTRAL PARK You’ve seen it in the movies, but the verdant space of Central Park in Manhattan is even more beautiful in real life. This carefully conserved park of 843 acres features fantastically green areas such as the Great Lawn and the formal Conservatory Garden. There are also lakes, ponds, pools, ravines and even a loch! Seize the opportunity to zip around on the Wollman Rink as well if you’re there in the winter months. Fun sculptures like Alice in Wonderland are dotted around the park, while the Strawberry Fields John Lennon memorial is an inspiring spot to wile away an hour. Central Park radiates the essence of the Big Apple! Book a Tour OPENING HOURS Daily: 6am-1am Transport Find Out More TOURIST ATTRACTIONS TRANSPORT Subway: Central Park is accessible by subway, with the A, B, C, D, and 1 trains stopping at Columbus Cir (on the southwest corner of the park) CENTRAL PARK B and C local trains continuing along Central Park W, with stops at 72nd St, 81st St (under the Natural History Museum on the Upper West Side), 86th St, 96th St, 103rd St, and 110 St. You’ve seen it in the movies, but the verdant space of Central Park in Manhattan is even Somewhat further west, the 1 (local) and 2/3 more beautiful realuplife. This carefully (express) lines in travel Broadway, though that avenue angles further to the west conserved parkfurther of 843and acres features northward from Columbus Cir.The 2/3 also stop fantastically green areas such as the Great at 110th St and Lenox Ave, near the northeast Lawn and thepark. formal Conservatory Garden. corner of the There are also lakes, ponds, pools, ravines On the Upper East Side, the park can be and even abyloch! Seize opportunity to zip accessed taking the 4,the 5, and 6 lines along Lexington Ave Wollman and walking 3 blocks west. around on the Rink as well if you’re There is also a stop on the N, Q and R lines at there in the winter months. Fun sculptures 5th Ave and 60th St, and a stop on the F train like Wonderland are dotted around at Alice 57th Stinand 6th Ave, both near the southern limits of the park. the park, while the Strawberry Fields John Lennon memorial is an inspiring spot to wile Close away an hour. Central Park radiates the essence of the Big Apple! Book a Tour OPENING HOURS Daily: 6am-1am Transport Find Out More NY FOR YOU TV and Movie Tours Iconic New York City landmarks like the Empire State Building have served as the backdrop for numerous popular television programmes and blockbuster movies. Weaving fact and fiction, local actors provide an entertaining and informative tour of film locations and behind-the-scenes insights while travellers walk in the footsteps of legendary performers. Gossip Girl Sex and the City Sopranos Girls HBO CP & Movie Site Tours TV AND MOVIE TOURS GOSSIP GIRL The New York Palace Hotel, 455 Madison Ave. (between 50th & 51st St.)New York, NY 10022 As you tour the Upper East Side in New York, get an up-close look at the lifestyles of the characters from the award-winning Gossip Girl. Experience a day in the life of a young Manhattan socialite, with special access to exclusive shops, eateries and other hotspots. Pass by the Vera Wang boutique, or shop at the lavish Dylan’s Candy Bar and the luxurious Henri Bendel department store. Visit Grand Central Terminal and the Empire Hotel, or stop for photos on the steps of the acclaimed Metropolitan Museum of Art where the girls eat lunch every day. Book Tickets Now TRANSPORT Nearest Subway: 6 at 51st St.; E, M at Fifth Ave.-53rd St. Tour Ends: Grand Central Station Nearest Subway: 4, 5, 6, 7, and S to Grand Central - 42nd St. TIMES 10 am Find Out More TV AND MOVIE TOURS SEX AND THE CITY 57th Street and 5th Ave New York, NY 10022 Young women have long followed the exploits, fashion and personal lives of Carrie, Charlotte, Miranda and Samantha. New York City itself played a starring role in the popular HBO series Sex and the City. Visit the spots in Midtown, SoHo, Greenwich Village and the Meatpacking District where the programme was filmed on location. Learn about the show while viewing upscale restaurants and designer boutiques. A Sex and the City tour enables guests to experience the Big Apple landmarks that featured in many of the most memorable scenes, such as the brownstone stoop and the bar owned by some of the characters. Book Tickets Now TRANSPORT Nearest Subway: N, Q, R to 5th Ave./59th St. TIMES 11 am Find Out More TV AND MOVIE TOURS SOPRANOS 7th Avenue near 39th Street (exact location given upon purchase) For a look at the fictional New York and New Jersey underworld, take a Sopranos location tour. Visitors will recall famous scenes featuring mob bosses and other “made men” running the “family business” while visiting well-known settings like the Bada Bing and Barone Sanitation. Ride by many of the landmarks shown in the opening scene of the Emmy Award-winning series, and then take photos while sitting in the Holsten’s booth where it all ended. The tour, led by local actors who have appeared on the show or were stand-ins, provides little-known facts and behind-the-scenes details so that visitors can feel like part of the show. Book Tickets Now CONTACT Tel : (212) 913-9780 Advance purchase required. TIMES Saturday at 10 am Find Out More TV AND MOVIE TOURS GIRLS HBO Greenpoint, Brooklyn New York’s five boroughs are home to some of the world’s best-known attractions and iconic landmarks. These sites have provided the backdrop for numerous movies and television programmes like Girls on HBO in New York. Visitors can find the settings of memorable scenes, while strolling through Manhattan’s eclectic neighbourhoods like Midtown, the West Village and Lower East Side, as well as NoHo and Chelsea. It’s easy to soak in the ambience and enjoy the views when visiting the Warwick Hotel, the Jane Hotel, the Lehmann Maupin Gallery and the High Line. Visitors can also listen to live music at the laid-back Tom and Jerry’s Bar seen on the show. Book Tickets Now LOCATION Greenpoint, Brooklyn Find Out More TV AND MOVIE TOURS CENTRAL PARK TV AND MOVIE SITES TOUR 59th St., near Fifth Ave. (exact spot to be given upon purchase), New York, NY 10022 Situated between 59th and 110th streets, the 843-acre, verdant Central Park has been the backdrop for movies and television shows since 1908. The tour takes you to iconic locations like the Boathouse, the Promenade and the Bethesda Fountain. Visitors of all ages will easily recognise many of the settings from their favourite programmes and films as they stroll through the park. Follow in the footsteps of the likes of Audrey Hepburn, Steve Carell and Meg Ryan, and view the iconic backdrops while immersing yourself in the culture and atmosphere of New York’s best-loved green space. Book Tickets Now TRANSPORT Nearest Subway: N, R to Fifth Ave./59th St.; Q to 57th St. (Seventh Ave.); F to 57 St. (Sixth Ave.); 1, 2, A, B, C, D to 59th St.–Columbus Circle (Central Park South). TIMES 12 pm Find Out More NY FOR YOU Broadway Babies For theatre lovers, there are few better destinations than New York City. Travellers to the Big Apple have access to hundreds of theatres on Broadway…and beyond. A variety of different productions are performed every night of the week, featuring classic stories, famous actors and stunning sets. BROADWAY SHOWS OFF BROADWAY SHOWS BROADWAY BABIES Broadway Shows Broadway is an area in Manhattan that is also known as the Theatre District. When people speak of seeing a Broadway show, they are referring to a production held in one of the district’s 40 theatres seating 500 people each. While there are countless shows to take in, some of Broadway’s finest include The Lion King, Wicked and The Book of Mormon. The Lion King Wicked Book of Mormon Beautiful On Your Feet American in Paris BROADWAY SHOWS THE LION KING Minskoff Theatre, 200 W 45th St New York, NY It is hard to imagine bigger names than those involved in ‘The Lion King’, with music by Sir Elton John, lyrics by Sir Tim Rice and the score itself created by Hans Zimmer. This long-running Broadway show has impressed theatre buffs on stages around the world. Today, the musical tours different locales, but its city of origin and theatre home is New York City. The story of the young lion prince Simba has become a family favourite and received critical acclaim, evidenced by five Tony Awards and several more nominations. See ‘The Lion King’ in New York and savour this musical masterpiece. Book Tickets Now TRANSPORT Nearest Subway: The N, Q, R and W subway lines; the 1, 2, 3 and 7 subway lines; and the B, V, F and D subway lines will all take you to W 42 Street, a few streets down from the theatre. CONTACT Tel : 949-333-4001 TIMES Vary. Typically: Sunday: 1.00pm & 6.00pm Monday: No Shows Tuesday/Wed: 7.00pm Thurs/Fri: 8.00pm Saturday: 2.00pm & 8.00pm Find Out More BROADWAY SHOWS WICKED The Gershwin Theatre 222 W. 51st St. (btw. Broadway & 8th Ave.) New York City Everyone grows up hearing the magical story of the Wizard of Oz, but the musical ‘Wicked’ gives an alternate version of the story for a captivating twist, telling the story of the witches of Oz before Dorothy set foot in the land. Showcased in the historic Gershwin Theatre, which has been hosting musicals for more than 20 years, ‘Wicked’ has won more than 100 international awards. These include a Grammy and three Tony Awards, while Entertainment Weekly has referred to it as the Best Musical of the Decade’ and The New York Times has called it ‘Broadway’s biggest blockbuster’. You don’t want to miss this! Book Tickets Now TRANSPORT Nearest Subway: C, E to 50th Street 1, 9 to 50th Street N, R to 49th Street TIMES Monday: No shows Tuesday/Wed: 7.00pm Thursday/Fri: 8.00pm Saturday: 2.00pm & 8.00pm Sunday: 2.00pm & 7.00pm Find Out More BROADWAY SHOWS BOOK OF MORMON Eugene O’Neill Theatre 230 W. 49th St. New York, NY 10019 Playing in the Eugene O’Neill Theatre is ‘The Book of Mormon’, a satirical musical about two American Mormons who visit Uganda to try to convert the natives. Created in part by South Park writers Trey Stone and Matt Parker, this show is a youthful, progressive performance that bridges the gap between pop culture and musical theatre. The show has won 11 Tony Awards. Witty and irreverent, ‘The Book of Mormon’ runs for an enjoyable 2 hours 30 minutes with an intermission and boasts an incredible script and fantastic characters. The catchy tunes will have you singing along in no time. Book Tickets Now TRANSPORT Nearest Subway: Lines 1 and 2 will take you to West 50th Street, between 7th Avenue and Broadway, placing you just round the corner from the theatre. CONTACT Tel : (212) 239-6200 TIMES Monday: No shows Tue/Wed/Thurs: 7.00pm Fri: 8.00 pm Sat.2.00pm and 8.00pm Sun. 2.00pm and 7.00pm Find Out More BROADWAY SHOWS Blogger Recommended BEAUTIFUL Stephen Sondheim Theatre 124 West 43rd Street, New York, NY 10036 Timeless tunes will keep your feet tapping and voice humming when you see ‘Beautiful’, the delightful, Grammy Award winning musical based on the true-life story of singer/songwriter Carole King. Just like her career, this inspiring show is brimming with hits, but it’s this girl’s mythical voice that transports her to stardom as she shapes a generation. Sung with passion and emotion, iconic songs you’ll hear include ‘It’s Too Late,’ ‘One Fine Day’ and ‘You’ve Got a Friend’, plus covers of classic songs such as ‘On Broadway’ and ‘Up on the Roof’. ‘Beautiful’ is simply the perfect way to describe this show. Book Tickets Now TRANSPORT Nearest Subway: Take the B, D, F, M to 42nd Street and 5th Avenue, the 7 or S to Times Square, or the 1, 2 or 3 to 42nd and 7th Avenue. Bus: Take the M6, M7, M10 or M20 CONTACT Tel : (212) 239-6200 TIMES Box Office: Mon-Sat 10.00 - 8.00pm Sun 12.00 - 6.00pm Find Out More BROADWAY SHOWS Blogger Recommended ON YOUR FEET 46th Street between Broadway & 8th Avenue New York, NY 10036 We all remember dance numbers from the 1980s such as ‘Conga’ and “Rhythm is Gonna Get You’ performed by the Miami Sound Machine. This new musical, scheduled to begin previews October 5 at the Marquis Theater, explores the lives and relationship of Cuban power couple Gloria and Emilio Estefan, who have won 26 Grammy Awards between them. The show celebrates the incredible legacy of two gifted people with powerful vision and longlasting love, as they become international superstars. ‘On Your Feet’ is sure to lift spirits and bring back nostalgic memories simultaneously. Book Tickets Now TRANSPORT Nearest Subway: Take the B, D, F or M to W 48th Street and 6th Avenue Bus: Take the M7 to W 47th Street with 7th Avenue CONTACT Tel : (212) 840-5577 Find Out More BROADWAY SHOWS Blogger Recommended AMERICAN IN PARIS 1564 Broadway (Broadway and 47th Street) New York, NY 10036 Paying tribute to the 1951 movie, this splendid show took the stage by storm earlier in 2015. Based on the film of the same name, the musical features unforgettable tunes from renowned composers, George and Ira Gershwin, and tells the love story of an American World War II veteran-turned-painter and a beautiful French shop girl. ‘American in Paris’ provides an exhilarating escape for two-plus hours with its stellar cast and captivating choreography by Christopher Wheeldon. Dreamy sets and lavish lighting complete this Broadway blockbuster at the Palace, leaving show-goers with a wonderful feeling as they exit the theater. Book Tickets Now TRANSPORT Nearest Subway: Take the N, Q, R; 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6; the A, C or E trains to 42nd Street Times Square Bus: Take the M104 to W 47th Street with 7th Avenue CONTACT SEND EMAIL TIMES Box Office: Mon-Sat 10.00 - 8.00pm Sun 12.00 - 6.00pm Find Out More BROADWAY BABIES Off Broadway Shows The distinction between Broadway and OffBroadway shows can be as small as a single seat. An Off-Broadway theatre might be on the same street as a Broadway theatre, but will seat an audience of 100 to 499 people each night. These shows are just as impressive as their Broadway counterparts. STOMP Blue Man Group The Flick Avenue Q The 39 Steps Trip of Love OFF BROADWAY SHOWS STOMP Orpheum Theatre Box Office, 126 Second Avenue, New York, NY 10003 The percussion group STOMP was founded in England in 1991, but it has toured the world in the years since. Today, visitors to New York can catch STOMP performances in the Orpheum Theatre where every seat offers a fantastic view. Far from ordinary percussion, STOMP uses unusual objects to create a kaleidoscope of sound. Everything from a broom to a dustbin can become a part of the show’s energetic blend of dance, music and theatre. Creativity, enthusiasm and movement all combine on the stage for a spectacular performance that will enthrall people of any age. Book Tickets Now TRANSPORT Subway: Take the 6 train to Astor Place or the N or R train to 8th Street. Bus: Take the M13, M15, M102 or M103 bus. CONTACT Tel : (855) 203-9980 TIMES Box Office: Mon: 1.00pm - 6.00pm Tues - Fri: 1.00pm - 8.00pm Sat: 12pm - 8pm Sun: 12.00pm - 5.30pm Show Times: Monday: Dark Tuesday-Fri: 8.00 pm Saturday: 3.00pm & 8.00pm Sunday: 2.00pm & 5.30pm Find Out More OFF BROADWAY SHOWS BLUE MAN GROUP 27 Barrow Street New York, NY 10014 Check out the Blue Man Group and witness an energetic performance that combines music, technology and comedy. This thrilling show and feast of colour is suitable for all ages and has a permanent home in New York City. The show continually features new music, new technology, new stories and new instruments, inspiring and delighting in equal measure. The Blue Man character was originally created in a quest for meaning and purpose. The character quickly became popular in theatres and transformed itself into a company. Since then the group has toured far and wide and appeared on smash US television shows such as ‘Arrested Development’ and ‘Ellen’. Don’t miss it. Book Tickets Now TRANSPORT Subway: Take the 6 train to Astor Place, walk one block south on Lafayette Street. Take the N/R to the 8th Street stop, walk from there to Lafayette Street Take the B/D/F/Q to BroadwayLafayette stop, Walk from there to Lafayette Street CONTACT Tel : (800) BLUEMAN TIMES Show Times: Monday-Fri: 8.00 pm Saturday-Sun: 2.00pm, 5.00pm& 8.00pm Find Out More OFF BROADWAY SHOWS THE FLICK 27 Barrow Street, New York, NY 10014 (at 7th Avenue, South of Christopher Street) In this play by Annie Baker, set in Massachusetts, three low-earning employees clean the floors of a shabby movie theatre and take care of one of the last 35 millimetre projectors in the state. The minor battles and major heartbreaks of these protagonists play out between the cinema aisles, becoming far more entertaining than the films shown on the screen there. The play is hilarious but tugs on the heart strings too. It won the 2014 Pulitzer Prize for Drama. Buy yourself a ticket and find out why it attracted the attention (and the admiration!) of the Pulitzer judges. Book Tickets Now TRANSPORT Subway: Take Train 1 to Christopher Street 1 block south on 7th Avenue to Barrow Then take train A C E B D F or M to West 4th Street. Finally head West on 4th Street, left on Barrow. TIMES Open 1pm Daily Show Times: Tuesday-Thur: 7.30 pm Friday: 8:00pm Saturday: 2.30pm & 8:00pm Sunday: 2:00pm & 7:30pm Find Out More OFF BROADWAY SHOWS Blogger Recommended AVENUE Q New World Stages, 340 West 50th Street, New York, NY 10019 Winner of three Tony Awards including Best Musical, Best Score and Best Book, Avenue Q played on Broadway from 2003 to 2009, after which it continued its run Off-Broadway at New World Stages. The musical comedy has become a New York theatre classic and must-see for puppet fans and anyone who appreciates raunchy humour that pushes the envelope. Get ready to laugh out loud while you follow a cast of outer borough characters as they travel through life searching for happiness, success and love. It’s a little like Sesame Street for grownups, but older teens will find the show hilarious as well. Book Tickets Now TRANSPORT Subway: Take the 1 or 2 to W 50th between 7th and 8th avenue Bus: Take the M11 or M50 to W 50th Street and 9th Avenue CONTACT Tel : +1 646-871-1730 Find Out More OFF BROADWAY SHOWS Blogger Recommended THE 39 STEPS Union Square Theatre 100 East 17th Street, NY 10003 This comedy based on the 1935 film spoofs its way just 39 steps from Broadway at the Union Square Theatre. Just four actors play more than 150 characters and these roles can change from minute to minute. This hilarious play promises 100 minutes of jampacked laughter. You can watch the hero of the play, Richard Hannay, as he frantically attempts to solve the story’s puzzle and clear his name before the show comes to an end. The 39 Steps is sheer brilliance and has twice won the admiration of Tony award judges. Book Tickets Now TRANSPORT Subway: Take the N, Q, R, 4, 5 or 6 lines to W 14th Street and Union Square. Bus: Take the M1, M2 or M3 to Union Square E/E 15th Street CONTACT Tel : +1 877-250-2929 TIMES Opening Times: Mon 7.00 pm Tue: No show Wed: 2.00pm and 8.00pm Thur and Fri: 8.00pm Sat. 2.00pm and 8.00pm Sun 3.00 pm Find Out More OFF BROADWAY SHOWS Blogger Recommended TRIP OF LOVE Stage 42 Theatre 422 West 42nd Street, New York, NY 10036 Who doesn’t love a great dance show? The upcoming musical, ‘Trip of Love’, scheduled to open on October 18 at Stage 42, offers a few hours of unadulterated fun. With a fierce dance ensemble boogieing to 1960s hits such as ‘These Boots Were Made for Walkin’,’ ‘Girl from Ipanema’ and ‘Wipeout’, the Trip of Love is sure to entertain. Get ready to be wowed by the troupe’s athleticism, palpable presence and undeniable talent, not to mention the bold, colourful costumes and sets. Book Tickets Now TRANSPORT Subway: Take the A, C or E lines to 42nd Street between 8th and 9th Avenue Bus: Take the M11 to W 40th Street with 9th Avenue CONTACT Tel : 1 212-239-6200 Find Out More NY FOR YOU Food Enthusiasts The sheer variety of eateries provides food enthusiasts in New York with plenty of choice. You can try everything from food trucks to fast food options to sit-down restaurants that offer every type of dish imaginable. It’s the perfect place to try a new dish or simply enjoy an old favourite. RESTAURANTS FAST FOOD JOINTS FOOD ENTHUSIASTS Restaurants In New York you can find anything from small unique eateries in Chelsea Market to upscale celebrity chef-owned restaurants all just within blocks of each other. Daniel, Luka and Budakkan are just some of the best places to eat in the city, providing the magical cuisine and dining experiences that New York restaurants offer. Daniel Luka Budakkan The River Cafe S Prime Blue BKB Buvette Via Vai RESTAURANTS DANIEL 60 E. 65th St., New York City, NY 10065 (Park Avenue) Offering contemporary French cuisine, this flagship restaurant created by Daniel Boulud is the ultimate in sophistication, with a dress code of elegant or business attire. You can feast on innovative cuisine and choose from an extensive wine list while taking in the neo classical architecture of the restaurant. You can sip on a King Louie cocktail or other creative cocktails in the bar and lounge before sitting down to your meal. This double Michelin-starred restaurant also features a highly exclusive dining area, the Skybox, which allows the guests to watch the chefs in action while they prepare the food. Book a Table OPENING HOURS Dinner: Mon-Sat 5.30 -10.30 pm Bar and Lounge: Mon-Sat 5.30 pm-11.00 pm TRANSPORT Subway: Take the F train to Lexington Avenue/E 63rd Street. The restaurant is just two streets away. CONTACT Tel : 212 288-0033 Find Out More RESTAURANTS LUKA Grand Street 10002, New York, NY Luka isn’t just about serving fantastic food: it’s also about enjoying fabulous company. Socialising is a big part of the Luka dining experience, so if you like to meet new people, you’ll love Luka. Sit down at a communal table with other diners and the chef will give you a warm welcome. Guest chefs carefully prepare your meal, pairing it with the best drinks and a little New York flair. You should book at least 48 hours in advance to dine at this friendly restaurant. Eat at Luka and leave New York with an even larger circle of friends! Book a Table OPENING HOURS Monday : 19:00 - 23:30 Tuesay: 19:00 - 23:30 Wednesday: 19:00 - 23:30 Thursday: 19:00 - 23:30 Friday: 19:00 - 23:30 Weekend: 12:00 - 23:30 CONTACT Tel : (646) 663 – 5872 DRESS CODE Smart - casual Find Out More RESTAURANTS BUDAKKAN Chelsea Market, 75 Ninth Ave, New York, NY 10011, United States Enter Buddakan and the first thing you notice is that this restaurant, which serves modern Asian cuisine, oozes style: the art on the walls, elegant red and turquoise seating, brown tables and a series of ornaments all work together for a chic feel. This matches the dress code of ‘Downtown chic, fun, hip’, as the restaurant describes it! As well as fun dishes like Mao Poe Tofu and Mongolian lamb chops, order speciality cocktails. These blend ingredients such as cucumber, chilli, basil and watermelon for a unique but refreshing taste that dances on the palate. Book a Table OPENING HOURS Daily: 5.30pm – 1am CONTACT Tel : +1 212-989-6699 DRESS CODE Smart - casual Find Out More RESTAURANTS THE RIVER CAFE Water Street between the Brooklyn Bridgeand West Cadman Plaz Nestled underneath the network of ramps on the Brooklyn side of the East River,The River Café New York features a menu of gastronomic delights. Its setting along the Brooklyn docks offers patrons marvellous views of the Manhattan skyline as they dine on culinary creations from renowned chefs. The award-winning River Café is located on Water Street between the Brooklyn Bridge and West Cadman Plaza. Patrons can enjoy lunch and leisurely Sunday brunch in the outdoor seating area. Known as the birthplace of the term ‘free-range chicken,’ the restaurant is a favourite destination for environmental enthusiasts from around the world. What’s on the Menu OPENING HOURS Open Daily: Reservations essential DRESS CODE After 5:00 p.m. each day, jackets are required for gentlemen in the Main Dining Room and the Bar. Appropriate clothing and footwear are required in all areas at all times. CONTACT Tel : +1 212-989-6699 Find Out More RESTAURANTS S PRIME 35-11 36th Street Long Island City, NY 11106, Queens Just outside of Manhattan, in Queens, is New York S Prime, an upscale steakhouse perfect for a special meal for travellers. Diners come to S Prime both for the incredible food and for the exclusive atmosphere, which brings an extra something to birthday dinners or anniversary celebrations. Executive Chef Joel Reiss whips up exceptional steaks, of course, but also fresh salads, indulgent seafood and house-made cheeses. Add a bottle of wine from the extensive collection onsite, or take an adventurous pick from the long list of speciality cocktails on offer. Refreshing flavours include the Cucumber Spice and the Razzle. Book a Table OPENING HOURS Tuesday-Sat : 5.00pm Mon & Sun : private events only CONTACT Tel : 718-707-0660 DRESS CODE Smart - casual Find Out More RESTAURANTS BLUE 1115 Richmond Terrace Staten Island, 10310 For a classic Mediterranean meal and waterfront views, New York Blue is a Staten Island favourite. While admiring the sunset over the Newark and Upper Bays, you’ll feel as though you’ve been transported to the Mediterranean with a menu featuring dishes as diverse as lamb meatballs in a pea ragu and fried Halloumi cheese on a bed of rocket and olives. To perfect an already amazing menu, the bartenders at Blue can create custom cocktails based on your preferences. Book a Table OPENING HOURS Monday to Thursday: 12:00 Noon – 11:00pm Friday and Saturday: 12:00 Noon – 12:00am Sunday: 12:00 Noon – 10:00pm CONTACT Tel : 718-273-7777 Find Out More RESTAURANTS Blogger Recommended BKB 99 Gansevoort Street, New York, NY 10014 This is my current favorite seafood restaurant in NYC. They serve the best cocktails around, crisp to perfection and super refreshing. The food is off the scale! My favorite plate and top recommendation at BKB is the aged sirloin cooked medium, served with black pepper, aromatic rub & crispy lemon potatoes. If I’m in a party mood I like to pair it with El Catrin cocktail. They have an amazing double happy hour special every day from 5-7pm Book a Table OPENING HOURS Monday - Saturday: 5:00pm - 11:00pm *Closed on Sundays Find Out More RESTAURANTS Blogger Recommended BUVETTE Located on 42 Grove st, New York, NY 10014 Buvette is a charming little French restaurant serving small plates of rustic French food in the West Village. Part restaurant, part bar, part cafe they have something to offer everyone and being French they have a great variety of wines to choose from. They serve great brunches as well as my ‘off the menu’ favorite Brandade de Morue au Gratin, in other words Salted cod gratin served with warm crostini. If you are in a hurry just pop in for an espresso and enjoy the casual and relaxed vibe. Book a Table OPENING HOURS Open Daily: 8:00am - 2:00am Find Out More RESTAURANTS Blogger Recommended VIA VAI Located on 42 Grove st, New York, NY 10014 This is an authentic Italian restaurant located in a Greek neighborhood serving mouth watering pastas, pizzas and wine. The food at Via Vai always has an exciting contemporary spin, yet this friendly restaurant retains the laidback atmosphere of traditional Italian osteria. I love ordering the lamb ragu spaghetti with a glass of white Pecorino. My daughters love the thin crust margarita pizza made with fresh mozzarrella cheese. Book a Table OPENING HOURS Open Daily: 1:00pm - 12:00am CONTACT Tel : 347-612-4334 Find Out More FOOD ENTHUSIASTS Fast Food Joints New York is a culinary epicentre with its famous restaurants and a street food scene that includes pushcarts, food trucks and fast food eateries. Whether you want unique dishes or just something quick to eat, sample different foods at Potato Corner, Crif Dogs and other New York fast food joints. Potato Corner Crif Dogs Five Guys Restaurant Los Amigos Tuck Shop Ample Hills Creamery FAST FOOD JOINTS POTATO CORNER 234 Canal St, New York 10013 (Between Centre & Baxter St) From its New York Potato Corner restaurants, this fast food chain offers customers a variety of flavoured French fries and other items. The chain has grown from a single kiosk to more than 200 restaurants worldwide. You’ll have a choice of straight or curly fries cooked to a golden brown, and the fries come topped with seasonings ranging from chilli BBQ and cheddar to sour cream and onion. Baked potatoes, hash brown puffs and criss-cut sweet potatoes are also on the menu. Complete your meal with some tender, lightly breaded chicken strips. Dips available include honey mustard and chipotle BBQ. What’s on the Menu OPENING HOURS Open: 10am – 10pm CONTACT Tel : (212) 334-3457 Find Out More FAST FOOD JOINTS CRIF DOGS 113 Saint Marks Place,10009, New York, NY 555 Driggs Avenue,11211, Brooklyn, NY New York Crif Dogs restaurants are renowned for their hot dogs, served with regular toppings like melted cheese, bacon, onions and more exotic ones such as avocado and pepperoncini. Serving fries, soft drinks like iced tea and lemonade, and beers, ‘C-dogs’ has earned a reputation as a popular hangout and is an ideal place for a quick after-hours bite in the revitalised upscale East Village. If you prefer a burger instead of a hot dog, the restaurant is happy to oblige. The Crif burger can be ordered with an equally generous variety of delicious toppings, including pineapple, sour cream and chilli cheese! What’s on the Menu OPENING HOURS Sun-Thurs : Noon – 2.00am Fri-Sat : 10.00am – 4.00am CONTACT 1) Tel : +1 212 614 2728 2) Tel : +1 718 302 3200 Find Out More FAST FOOD JOINTS FIVE GUYS BURGER AND FRIES 1) 343 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001 2) 253 W 42nd Street, New York, NY 10036 3) 296 Bleecker Street, New York, NY 10014 4) 43 W 55th Street, New York, NY 10019 The New York Five Guys Burgers and Fries restaurants serve handcrafted burgers, kosher hot dogs, Cajun-style fries and more. The chain claims proudly that its burgers can be customised in more than 250,000 ways. Restaurants offer free toppings and invite you to choose as many as you wish. Group and online orders are also possible, making pickup easier so that guests can get back to sightseeing. Five Guys burger joints enable visitors to savour the flavours of wellmade burgers and even sautéed vegetable sandwiches the American way. Don’t forget to try the bulk peanuts served around the restaurant as well. What’s on the Menu OPENING HOURS Open 11am – 10pm (times may vary) CONTACT 1) Tel : 212-564-9804 2) Tel : 212-398-2600 3) Tel : 212-367-9600 4) Tel : (212)-459-9600 Find Out More FAST FOOD JOINTS Blogger Recommended LOS AMIGOS Located on 2273 31st, Long Island City, NY 11105 This is a low-key Mexican gem. In my humble opinion, Los Amigos serve the best chicken enchiladas in NY state! I like it in salsa verde which means green sauce. You can choose red sauce if you want it extra spicy. They also serve a delicious michelada which is beer (your favorite) poured into a glass filled with hot sauce! My dream in a mug. They also serve delicious beef nachos which come with chunky avocado pieces. Viva mexico! Book a Table OPENING HOURS Open Daily: 11:00am - 4:00am CONTACT Tel : 718-726-8708 Find Out More FAST FOOD JOINTS Blogger Recommended TUCK SHOP 68 East 1st street between 1st & 2nd ave Chelsea Market 75 9th Avenue (between 15th and 16th street) This is an Australian underground pie shop with locations on 1st Street and Chelsea market. They serve awesome pies to stay or on the go. My favorite is the chili pie. Although there is no meat inside this pie, it’s very filling with a nice spicy kick. If you need some fast food on the go that won’t make you feel guilty as hell give these pies a whirl! Book a Table OPENING HOURS Open Daily: 10:00am - 2:00am CONTACT Tel : 212 255 2021 Find Out More FAST FOOD JOINTS Blogger Recommended AMPLE HILLS CREAMERY 305 Nevins street, Brooklyn, NY 11215 This is not your typical ice cream shop. I visited this shop a few weeks ago and couldn’t get enough of it! The shop has a nice play area for kids, a rooftop lounging area where you can hang with friends late at night, eating ice cream and gazing at the stars. The ice cream flavors are all unique and made right on the premises. They have a glass window where you can see how the process works for yourself. Treat yourself! What’s on the Menu OPENING HOURS Open Daily: 12:00pm - 12:00am CONTACT SEND EMAIL Find Out More NY FOR YOU Culture Vultures Museums, walking tours and street art are just some of the attractions open to visiting New York culture vultures. With modern art, United States history, ancient sculptures, European antiquities or other cultural subjects, see the attractions in this section that make NYC one of the world’s finest cities for culture. MUSEUMS WALKING TOURS STREET ART CULTURE VULTURES Museums Travel back in time in the city that never sleeps. New York is home to some of the world’s best museums and travellers come from alll over the world to walk their hallowed halls. From natural history to art, music and fashion the Big Apple is big on museums. Natural History Whitney -American Art Metropolitan -Art Morgan Library Armstrong House Museum of NYC MUSEUMS AMERICAN MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY Central Park West at 79th Street, NY 10024-5192 Located at Central Park West and 79th Street in New York City, the New York American Museum of Natural History comprises 27 interconnected buildings that store one of the largest history collections in the world. Permanent and travelling exhibits include astronomy, space, oceans, animals and much more. You can learn about anatomy, metamorphosis and ecology at the museum’s popular annual butterfly exhibit. Movie buffs will enjoy the ‘Night at the Museum’ tour, which will take you past familiar exhibits and scenes from the comedy. The New York American Museum of Natural History can be accessed by subway, bus or car. Book Tickets Now OPENING HOURS CONTACT Open daily : 10 am - 5:45 pm Tel : 212-769-5100 Except on Thanksgiving and Christmas Find Out More Transport MUSEUMS TRANSPORT Subway: AMERICAN MUSEUM OF Take the B (weekdays only) or C to 81st Street. NATURAL Two blocks westHISTORY of the Museum, the 1 train stops at Broadway West 79th NY Street. For a Central Park West at and 79th Street, 10024-5192 full size subway map, follow this link to go to the Metropolitan Transit Authority Web site. PLEASE NOTE: For the duration of the Located at Central Park West and construction on the Manhattan Bridge the79th B subway line will not operate on the Upper West Street in New York City, the New York Side during the weekends. Weekday service will American Museum of Natural History not be affected during visitor hours, but the B train comprises 27 interconnected will stop running weeknights on thebuildings Upper Westthat at 10:45pm. storeSide one of the largest history collections in the world. Permanent and travelling exhibits include astronomy, space, oceans, Close animals and much more. You can learn about anatomy, metamorphosis and ecology at the museum’s popular annual butterfly exhibit. Movie buffs will enjoy the ‘Night at the Museum’ tour, which will take you past familiar exhibits and scenes from the comedy. The New York American Museum of Natural History can be accessed by subway, bus or car. Book Tickets Now OPENING HOURS Open daily : 10 am - 5:45 pm Except on Thanksgiving and Christmas CONTACT Tel : 212-769-5100 Find Out More Transport MUSEUMS WHITNEY MUSEUM OF AMERICAN ART 99 Gansevoort Street, New York, NY 10014 The New York Whitney Museum of American Art opened in 1932. Recognising some of the problems American artists faced exhibiting and selling their work, the sculptor and founder, Gertrude Vanderbilt Whitney, set up the museum to showcase exclusively American art. There are more than 21,000 pieces in the museum’s collection. Contemporary art, performance art, music and film all feature among the variety of exhibitions at the museum. The Biennial is the museum’s signature exhibition, is continuous and surveys recent developments in American art. The museum’s outdoor walkways, rooftop cafe and observation decks provide you with a great vantage point to admire the views of the city. Book Tickets Now OPENING HOURS Opening Times : Mon: 10.30 am – 6.00 pm Tues: Closed Wed: 10.30 am–6.00 pm Thur–Sat: 10.30am–10.00pm Sun: 10.30 am–6.00 pm TRANSPORT Subway: The closest lines are the A, C, E, and L at 14th Street CONTACT Tel : 212 570-3600 TICKETS Adult Senior Student Under 18 $22.00 $18.00 $18.00 $ 0.00 Find Out More MUSEUMS METROPOLITAN MUSEUM OF ART The Metropolitan Museum of Art, known locally as The Met, houses one of the world’s largest art collections. Exhibits include antique silver and jade collections, photography, sculpture, Chinese tapestries and American quilts as well as art from Egypt, medieval Europe, Africa and ancient Greece. The museum offers tours for adults, kids, teens and students. The New York Metropolitan Museum of Art is an extensive building, so plan for several days to explore it all. Take a guided tour or use a mobile device for self-guided touring apps. The Met is open every day, so just relax and enjoy the exhibits. Book Tickets Now Find Out More MUSEUMS Blogger Recommended THE MORGAN LIBRARY AND MUSEUM 225 Madison Avenue at 36th Street, New York, New York 10016 The Morgan Library and Museum could be considered integral to not only preserving New York’s history, but also ensuring its future. Located in midtown Manhattan, this museum is home to one of the world’s greatest collections of artistic, literary and musical works, ranging from ancient times to the present day. Both permanent and rotating exhibits are on display, and Mr. Morgan’s gorgeous collection is a must-see for both tourists and locals alike. Book Tickets Now OPENING HOURS Opening Times : Tue - Thur 10.30 am - 5.00 pm Fri. 10.30 am - 9.00 pm (Free admission Fridays 7.00 pm - 9.00 pm) Sat. 10.00 am - 6.00 pm Sun. 11.00 am - 6.00 pm TRANSPORT Subway: Take the line 6 to 33rd Street, or 4, 5, 6 or 7 to Grand Central Bus: Take the BxM10 to Madison Avenue / E 37 Street CONTACT Tel : 212 685-0008 Find Out More MUSEUMS Blogger Recommended THE LOUIS ARMSTRONG HOUSE MUSEUM 34-56 107th Street Corona, New York 11368 Jazz fans, perk those ears up! Located in Corona, Queens, you can visit the actual house where the legendary jazz musician Louis Armstrong and his wife Lucille lived for most of their adult life. Kept exactly as it was when he was alive, this truly is a tribute house that honours his life, legacy and, of course, his great music, and you’ll hear plenty of his fine tunes during the visit. Visiting the museum also gives you the opportunity to explore the vast borough of Queens. Guided tours are offered every hour, on the hour. Book Tickets Now OPENING HOURS Opening Times : Tue-Fri: 10.00am - 5.00pm Sat & Sun: 12.00pm - 5.00pm TRANSPORT Subway: Take the 7 to 111th Street with Roosevelt Avenue Bus: Take the Q23 to 104th Street with 37th Avenue CONTACT Tel : 718-478-8274 Find Out More MUSEUMS Blogger Recommended MUSEUM OF THE CITY OF NEW YORK 1220 Fifth Avenue (at 103rd Street) New York, 10029 The large, elegant, colonial revival mansion that houses the Museum of the City of New York looks like a private home from the Gilded Age and represents the ultimate essence of New York style — classical on the outside, but modern and ready on the inside — for a diverse series of exhibits. This is a museum whose holdings are fluid, where new exhibitions about NYC continuously enter and exit, appropriately mirroring the important city outside while honouring the diversity of New York, the city’s continuous transformation and fastpaced mode of living. Book Tickets Now OPENING HOURS Opening Times : Mon-Sun 10.00 am - 6.00 pm TRANSPORT Subway: Take the 4 or 6 to Lexington Avenue with E 110 Street Bus: Take the M1, M2, M3 or M4 to E 104th Street with 5th Avenue CONTACT Tel : 212-534-1672 Find Out More CULTURE VULTURES Walking Tours Venture beyond gallery and museum walls on a journey of discovery with a New York walking tour. Explore the city’s cultural heritage up-close and take in the extensive history, iconic locations and inspiring architecture on PhotoTrek, Revolutionary Era or Greenwich Village Food and the other walking tours in this section. Greenwich Village NYC Photo Trek Patriot Revo-ERA Brooklyn Bridge Staten Island Ahoy New York Accomplice: The Show Soundwalk WALKING TOURS GREENWICH VILLAGE FOOD AND WALKING TOUR Meet Near 6th Ave. and Bleecker St. (Exact location given when tickets are purchased) Experience the bohemian atmosphere, history and artistic roots of this famous neighbourhood amidst a backdrop of winding streets and 19th century homes. In addition to New York street art, knowledgeable guides provide insight into the Village’s food scene. The leisurelypaced tour includes several stops to relax and enjoy a snack in a well-known eatery. Visit a diverse mix of shops, boutiques and restaurants as well as notable buildings and street scenes. The New York Greenwich Village Food and Walking Tour is a wonderful way for you to immerse yourself in the flavours, atmosphere and culture of New York’s charming neighbourhoods. Book Tickets Now OPENING HOURS Open all week : Between 11.00am and 1.30pm TRANSPORT Subway: Meet Near 6th Ave. and Bleecker St. (Exact location given when tickets are purchased) CONTACT Tel : (917) 408-9539 SEND EMAIL TICKETS From : $49.00 Find Out More WALKING TOURS NEW YORK CITY PHOTO TREK WALKING TOUR Times Square or Your Hotel Concierge Desk, NY (Exact location given when tickets are purchased) On this New York Phototrek walking tour, you can explore some of the city’s most popular sites such as Times Square, Central Park and the Brooklyn Bridge. You’ll be accompanied by a knowledgeable guide who can provide insights into the city’s fascinating history as well as the best places to shop and dine during your stay. Additionally, an experienced photographer can create lifelong mementos of you and your party using some of New York’s most iconic backdrops. If you’re interested in historic sites and architectural marvels consider a tour of midtown Manhattan too, which includes a stop at the Grand Central Terminal. Book Tickets Now OPENING HOURS Mon - Sun : TIMES VARY Typical tour times include : 8.00am - 9.30am, 10.00am, 12.30pm & 1.45pm. TRANSPORT Subway: Take the 1, 2, 3 or S train to Times Square 42nd Street Bus: Take the M104 to Times Square 47th Street with 7th Avenue CONTACT Tel : 917-734-7602 Find Out More WALKING TOURS PATRIOT TOURS REVOLUTIONARY ERA WALKING TOUR Downtown - Near City Hall and the Brooklyn Bridge (Exact location given when tickets are purchased) Walk in the footsteps of legendary figures like George Washington, Alexander Hamilton and Nathan Hale to see historic locations that you might miss on a tour bus. On the New York Patriot Tours Revolutionary Era Walking Tour you’ll discover the colonial history of the Big Apple and hear tales of the political intrigue that occurred as patriots and loyalists determined the future of 1770s New York. Learn about New Amsterdam’s Dutch legacy and visit landmarks like Federal Hall, St. Paul’s Chapel and Trinity Church while uncovering subtle hints and viewing vestiges of the city’s storied past hiding in plain sight. Book Tickets Now OPENING HOURS Opening Times : Mon, Wed & Friday: 10.00am Tue & Thursday: 12.00pm Saturday: 11.00am CONTACT Tel : (917)716-4908 SEND EMAIL TICKETS From : $26.00 Find Out More WALKING TOURS WALK THE BROOKLYN BRIDGE Brooklyn and the Bronx contain their own roster of exciting attractions. Brooklyn lends its name to the famous bridge that spans the East River. Visitors can enjoy scenic views of the Manhattan skyline and the Statue of Liberty in the distance as they walk the Brooklyn Bridge in New York. It’s recommended to start the crossing from a small park near the city’s Municipal Building. The midway point is an ideal venue for taking pictures, or watching boats and helicopters. When exiting the historic bridge, look out for the sign indicating DUMBO, or Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass. Brooklyn Bridge Blog LOCATION Pedestrian/ bicycle access from either Tillary/Adams Streets or a staircase on Prospect Street Manhattan: pedestrian walkway accessible end of Centre Street, or through the unpaid south staircase of Brooklyn Bridge WHEN Best at nighttime for full views of the NY skyline lights Find Out More WALKING TOURS STATEN ISLAND BOARDWALK Fort Wadsworth, Staten Island, NY to Miller Field, Staten Island, NY The New York Staten Island Boardwalk, or South Beach-Franklin Delano Roosevelt Boardwalk, is a stand-out attraction on Staten Island. This boardwalk was built in 1935 and stretches between Fort Wadsworth and Miller Field, which is a military installation on the National Register of Historic Places. Stroll along the boardwalk for views of the sandy shoreline, the blue waters of the Atlantic, sports facilities and long piers –ideal for fishermen. Stop to admire the Fountain of the Dolphins, an incredible boardwalk feature with six bronze figures and evening illuminations. Location LENGTH 2.5 - 4.5 miles depending on where you start WHEN Open all year round but best walked in good weather months Find Out More WALKING TOURS Blogger Recommended AHOY NEW YORK TOURS AND TASTING Fort Wadsworth, Staten Island, NY to Miller Field, Staten Island, NY Take a tour with Ahoy New York Tours & Tasting and you can really enjoy a slice of diversity in the Big Apple. The Chinatown and Little Italy Tour is a tasty way to explore two unique ethnic NYC neighbourhoods, including meal-like portions, visits to historical sites, hidden gems and staple businesses…some of these are over 100 years old! There are plenty of tastings which will keep you full over the three hour tour… equalling the amount you would eat for a regular lunch! Book Tickets Now OPENING HOURS Open all week : Tours start at 10.30 am (with prompt check-in at 10.15 am) TRANSPORT Subway: Take the 4 or 6 to Lafayette Street with Canal Street, or the B or D line to Chrystie Street with Grand Street Bus: Take the M103 to Bowery Street with Grand Street CONTACT Tel : 646-681-3994 Find Out More WALKING TOURS Blogger Recommended ACCOMPLICE: THE SHOW Downtown, NYC. Exact location is given upon ticket confirmation Possibly the most entertaining walking tour you’ll ever take in New York by far, ‘Accomplice The Show’ is adventure theatre…taking you outside of the theatre and putting you in the real world, i.e. the streets, bars and cafes of New York City. Prepare for a scavenger hunt of whodunnit proportions as you circulate through the city’s neighbourhoods in search of characters, real NY types, who will lead (or mislead) you in the completion of a task. It’s a 3-D game of reality ‘Clue’ played out on New York’s not-so-mean streets. Book Tickets Now OPENING HOURS Friday, Saturday & Sunday : Tours run every half hour from 12.30 pm to 4.30 pm TRANSPORT Subway: Take the 4 or 6 to Bleecker Street with Lafayette Street Bus: Take the X7, X9 or X10B to W Houston Street with Broadway CONTACT Tel : 347-559-6223 Find Out More WALKING TOURS Blogger Recommended SOUNDWALK Various locations Soundwalk Audio Guides let you guide yourself round New York City. The best thing about Soundwalk audio guides is that you can download them onto your iPod and stroll at your own pace on your own schedule… all the while taking in the sights, sounds, and local culture of various NYC neighborhoods. Each guide has an engaging narrator, a native of that part of NYC, who leads you through the streets of their neighborhood, visiting cafes, stores, parks, religious institutions, lofts, bakeries, and even apartments. While walking, they give you a bit of history on the hood, and explain to you in vivid detail what makes it tick. Download an Audio Guide OPENING HOURS Self-Guided tour: You chose your own time and day AUDIO $1 - Per Download Find Out More CULTURE VULTURES Street Art New York City street art transforms the landscape into an exhilarating al fresco gallery. These creative works use a variety of artistic media, ranging from spray paint to stencils and sculptures. In this section you’ll learn where to find the best and most engaging art on the sidewalks of New York City. 9/11 Memorial Street Art Walk Please Touch the Art Panorama STREET ART STATEN ISLAND SEPTEMBER 11 MEMORIAL The larger and busier memorials of the events of September 11 are found in Manhattan, but Staten Island’s own response to this tragic event is equally poignant. Located on the North Shore Waterfront Esplanade, the New York Staten Island September 11 Memorial is a pair of contemporary wings facing upward, as if ready to take flight. Designed by the architect Masayuki Sono, the memorial’s interior walls are lined with plaques honouring the lives of those lost in the tragedy. Book Tickets Now Find Out More STREET ART Blogger Recommended STREET ART WALK Location is given after booking. The beautiful thing about street art in NYC is that it’s constantly evolving and changing. What may appear today can easily be gone by tomorrow, so it’s all about taking advantage of the moment with frequent neighborhood strolls to catch the latest murals and installations. There are no better people to show you the latest and greatest than the tour guides of Street Art Walk, who will guide you through Bushwick and Williamsburg, Brooklyn neighborhoods famous for their wall murals and graffiti. Book a Tour OPENING HOURS Saturday & Sunday : 11:30am and 2:30pm TICKETS Single - $25 Find Out More STREET ART Blogger Recommended PLEASE TOUCH THE ART BY JEPPE HEIN Pier 1 at Brooklyn Bridge Park Jeppe Hein’s three-piece installation in Brooklyn Bridge Park is a unique experience. Walk through the “walls of water” Appearing Rooms, a series of choreographed jet sprays before entering the Mirror Labyrinth, a stainless steel display that echoes the Manhattan skyline across the river. Finally make your way through a series of sixteen Social Benches that encourage interaction with fellow New Yorkers. All this fabulous public art is in an ideal spot totake in the atmospheric Manhattan skyline, directly over the East River. Download Scavenge Hunt Guide Find Out More STREET ART Blogger Recommended PANORAMA The High Line Panorama is currently showing at the High Line park, a public installation which brings together sculptural works from 11 international artists. Pieces on show explore the theme of “seeing and understanding the spectacle of nature.” Highlights include Damien Ortega’s Physical Graffiti series; Ryan Gander’s marble portrait of his wife spitting water, which doubles as a drinking fountain; and Olafur Eliasson’s Lego cityscape. This fun piece is made from two tons of white LEGO, which you and everyone else are encouraged to rebuild again and again, just like the real New York. Interactive street art, indeed. Panorama Blog *These pieces will be live through March 2016. Find Out More NY FOR YOU Fashionistas Fashion lovers planning a trip to this city will want to know where to find the best looks and imitate the New York fashionistas, or simply pick up some cool items. Here we cover some of the many different shopping options, such as the Brooklyn Flea Market and Fifth Avenue. SHOPPING THINGS TO DO FASHIONISTAS Shopping New York presents a mighty variety of shopping options. Choosing select destinations helps you get more out of your New York City shopping adventure. Whether you’re looking for upscale denim, classic brands or avant-garde fashion, some of the best choices include Brooklyn Industries, the International Playground and 3 X 1. Brooklyn Industries International Playground 3x1 Upper West Flea Market MoMA Design Store L-Train Vintage SHOPPING BROOKLYN INDUSTRIES 290 Lafayette St, New York, NY 10012, USA Brooklyn Industries is a terrific place to shop. The company was founded in the mid1990s by two artists who wanted to be able to live, work and create with freedom. They started their company by making bags out of recycled material from billboards. Today, the retail locations are dotted throughout Brooklyn, Manhattan and Chelsea. The stores offer cutting-edge designs, many using superb, high-level art and recycled materials, and fashions are available for both men and women. A variety of bags, jewellery and other accessories is also offered. The company is very environmentally conscious and powers its stores using wind energy. Brooklyn Industries Blog OPENING HOURS Open all week : Sun - Thur: 11.00 am - 8.00 pm Fri - Sat: 11.00 am - 9.00 pm TRANSPORT Subway: B, D, F, V to Broadway-Lafayette St CONTACT Tel : +1 212 219 0862 Find Out More SHOPPING INTERNATIONAL PLAYGROUND 463 Broome St.Between Mercer & Greene New York, NY 10013 In Soho, fashion lovers can find International Playground amid the sea of flagship stores located there. This boutique focuses on niche fashions and European designs that have a dedicated following. Displayed on top of pristine white marble, you’ll see such brands as Heaven, a natural skincare line believed to be Kate Middleton’s favourite. You’ll also come across H. Fredriksson’s silkprinted dresses and chest plates as well as cage pieces by Chromat, which A-listers like Madonna and Beyoncé have famously worn during their musical performances. There are so many one-of-a-kind design options that a trip to International Playground could take hours. Playground Blog OPENING HOURS Open all week : Mon - Sat: 11.00am - 7.00pm Sunday: 12.00pm - 7.00pm TRANSPORT Subway: 4 and 6 to Spring St CONTACT Tel : (212) 228 2700 Find Out More SHOPPING 3x1 15 Mercer St New York, NY 10013, USA Heading to New York 3 X 1, located in the heart of Soho at 15 Mercer is a true fashion and shopping experience. The store features a glass-enclosed factory that custom-makes jeans for both women and men. You can watch the action as the jeans are created before your eyes. The store uses the best in top-quality and rare denims and sells bespoke jeans for people who want a little extra pizazz. The company has the most extensive collection of selvedge denim worldwide. Shop in New York City and bring home fashion straight from the Big Apple’s most creative minds. 3x1 Blog OPENING HOURS Open all week : Mon - Sat: 11.00am - 7.00pm Sunday: 12.00pm - 6.00pm TRANSPORT Subway: N/Q/R, J, 6 to Canal St CONTACT Tel : 212-391-6969 Find Out More SHOPPING Blogger Recommended UPPER WEST SIDE FLEA MARKET Address: 100 West 77th Street, New York, NY Every Sunday from 10:00am to 5:30pm local food, vintage and antique vendors set up their tables at PS452 on 77th and Columbus in the Upper West Side. It’s a unique opportunity to wander the halls of a New York City public school and get your shopping fix at the same time. Money raised from the flea market is used by local parents to provide enrichment opportunities for neighbourhood schools. Location OPENING HOURS Sunday: 10.00am - 5.30pm Find Out More SHOPPING Blogger Recommended MOMA DESIGN STORE 81 Spring Street, New York, NY The MoMa Design Store, an extension of the New York Museum of Modern Art, challenges you to “Live artfully!” by incorporating good design into all aspects of your space. In addition to the prints and books you’d expect from a museum store, they offer a carefully curated selection of contemporary, functional clothes and objects for your everyday life. This is a great place to buy a souvenir on your trip. What’s On? OPENING HOURS Sunday: 11.00am - 7.00pm Find Out More SHOPPING Blogger Recommended L-TRAIN VINTAGE 1377 Dekalb Ave, Brooklyn, NY L-Train Vintage—named for the Brooklyn to Manhattan subway line—started out as a humble vintage shop in Williamsburg and has since taken root as the best chain of affordable vintage stores in New York. They promise to keep you not just ‘on trend’, but beyond the trend. They currently have six locations throughout Brooklyn and Lower Manhattan. Find a shop OPENING HOURS Open Daily: 12.00pm - 8.00pm Find Out More FASHIONISTAS Things to See / Do New York provides plenty of things to see and do for fashionistas. Trends that transform the fashion landscape are born here and famous fashion designers call the city home. Fashion lovers flock to New York for the live venues, entertainment and, of course, Fashion Week and the shops and boutiques. Brooklyn Flea Market Century 21 Project Runway The Museum at FIT Fashion Icons Martinis & Manicures THINGS TO SEE/DO BROOKLYN FLEA MARKET 1) 176 Lafayette Ave (Fort Greene) Brooklyn, NY 2) 50 Kent Ave (Williamsburg) Brooklyn, NY The New York Brooklyn Flea Market, sometimes referred to as the ‘Brooklyn Flea’, operates in two locations each weekend and has hundreds of vendors on site from the area and beyond. This outdoor flea market was founded in April 2008 and has grown into one of New York City’s top attractions. It features furniture, jewellery, vintage clothing, antiques and collectibles and arts and crafts. From April to November, the flea market opens on Saturday in Fort Greene and Sunday in Williamsburg. You’re sure to leave the market with some unique apparel for creating a new outfit or starting a trend! Flea Vendors OPENING HOURS Fort Greene : Saturday 10.00 am to 5.00 pm Williamsburg : Sunday 10.00 am to 5.00 pm TRANSPORT Subway: L to Bedford Ave (Fort Greene) C to Lafayette Ave (Williamsburg) CONTACT SEND EMAIL Find Out More THINGS TO SEE/DO CENTURY 21 22 Cortlandt St btwn Church St & Broadway Fashionistas come to Century 21 for designer apparel up to 65 per cent off retail. Versace, Rachel Zoe and Transit are just some of the big names on offer at this premium yet affordably priced department store. Head to downtown New York or visit the Brooklyn location for deals on everything from dresses to heels. Century 21 also has deals on men’s and children’s clothing, and on beauty products, home decor and gadgets. Whether it’s a Gucci handbag or Ivanka Trump boots, you won’t be able to resist the large inventory and deals in the New York Century 21 stores. Vist Store OPENING HOURS Mon-Wed: 7:45am-9pm (9:30pm on Wed) Thu & Fri: 7.45am - 9.30pm Sat: 10.00am - 9.00pm Sun: 11.00am - 8.00pm TRANSPORT Subway: A/C, J/Z, 2/3, 4/5 to Fulton St, N/R to Cortlandt St CONTACT Tel: 877-350-2121 Find Out More THINGS TO SEE/DO THE PROJECT RUNWAY EXPERIENCE 21 W 39th Street New York, NY 10018 The New York Project Runway Experience is a fun experience for fashionistas of all ages who are visiting the city. You’ll get to go shopping for fabrics at Mood Designer fabrics, which is where the designers shop on the show Project Runway (in the show, hopeful fashion designers compete for an investment to start their business). Then you return back to a Manhattan studio to design, sew and decorate your own project. It’s like being a real fashion designer: you’ll experience the NYC Garment District and make your own clothes. Why not give it a try and see what you come up with? Book a class TRANSPORT Subway: N, Q, R and 7 place you just a couple of blocks away at the Times Square 42nd station, as will the B,D,F and M lines to Bryant Park. Bus: The BM1, BM2, BM3, BM4 and BM5 bus lines will take you within 5 minutes’ walking distance of the attraction. CONTACT Tel: 646-329-6663 Find Out More THINGS TO SEE/DO Blogger Recommended THE MUSEUM AT FIT Seventh Avenue at 27 Street New York, NY Describing itself as ‘the most fashionable museum in New York City,’ the Museum at FIT (Fashion Institute of Technology) is often one of the most overlooked. The museum houses a collection of 50,000 fashion artifacts spanning from the 18th century to the present, but what they really do best are their special exhibits. Entrance to the museum is free, as are many of their events and cultural programs. You won’t need to reserve advance tickets to see the exhibits, but if you plan to attend any of the film screenings or lecture series, be sure to book your tickets online and well ahead of time. Space is limited and the more popular What’s on OPENING HOURS Tue - Fri: 12.00pm - 8.00pm Saturday: 10.00am - 5.00pm *Closed Sun, Monday and legal holidays TRANSPORT Subway: Take the 1 or 2 to W 23rd Street with 7th Avenue Bus: Take the M5 or the M7 to W 27th Street with 6th Avenue CONTACT Tel: 212 217.4558 Find Out More THINGS TO SEE/DO Blogger Recommended FASHION ICONS WITH FERN MALLIS 1395 Lexington Ave, New York, NY “Fashion Icons” is an ongoing series hosted by Fern Mallis at the 92nd Street Y in the Upper East Side of Manhattan. Once a month, Fern Mallis—an icon in her own right who is credited with being the founder of Fashion Week in New York City—sits down with a fashion industry leader for a one-onone conversation. Past guests have included Diane von Furstenberg, Marc Jacobs and Oscar de la Renta. If you are lucky enough to be in town for one of her show dates, it’s a really unique opportunity to gain intimate access to these otherwise inaccessible fashion powerhouses. Book Tickets Now OPENING HOURS Monday - Friday: 6:00am – 11:00pm Saturday - Sunday: 3:00am – 11:00pm Find Out More THINGS TO SEE/DO Blogger Recommended MARTINIS & MANICURES 231 E 14th St, New York, NY Beauty Bar is a retro-salon turned saloon in the East Village where $10 will buy you both a manicure and a martini. This eclectic beauty saloon has a real kitsch vibe and still makes use of sixties chrome-domed hair dryers under which blue-haired ladies were groomed and gossiped for decades. Obviously you have to be over 21 for this martinis & manicures night - I gather it is a popular night for bachelorette and girly birthday parties! Go on a Wednesday or Sunday night and you’ll also get a free comedy show. Beauty Bar Blog OPENING HOURS Monday - Friday: 6:00am – 11:00pm Saturday - Sunday: 3:00am – 11:00pm CONTACT Tel: (917) 660-2292 Find Out More NY FOR YOU Sound Hounds The numerous music venues will delight New York sound hounds who have come to the city to experience musical magic. In New York City you can see tomorrow’s stars as they make their way to the top and capture the sounds of today’s artists as they continue to thrill audiences. TOP MUSIC VENUES THINGS TO DO SOUND HOUNDS Top Music Venues Several places stand out as New York’s top music venue choices. The Bowery Ballroom offers live music every night, and the Radio City Music Hall has hosted famous performances for many years. You can also check out the Village Vanguard for some sophisticated jazz. Here are a few suggestions. The Bowery Ballroom Radio City Music Hall Village Vanguard Dizzy’s Jazz Club Brooklyn Bowl Prospect Park MUSIC VENUES THE BOWERY BALLROOM 6 Delancey Street (between Bowery & Chrystie St.) New York, NY 10002 Visit the New York Bowery Ballroom and you’ll find yourself in a certifiably hip, threelevel, ballroom-style music venue. This is a terrific venue for people who love indie rock. The venue features newcomers along with well-known artists. Bars are located on every level, so you can enjoy the cocktail of your choice while you take in the music. All areas in the mid-sized venue offer excellent acoustics and great line-of-sight to watch the entertainers while they give the performance everything they’ve got on stage. The atmosphere is trendy and intimate, making this definitely the place to be for music lovers. Book Tickets Now OPENING HOURS CONTACT Mon-Sat: 8:00pm - 2:00am Sunday: 7:00pm - 2:00am Tel: +1 212-260-4700 TRANSPORT Find Out More Subway: B, D at Grand St.; F; J, M, Z at Essex St.-Delancey St. MUSIC VENUES RADIO CITY MUSIC HALL Rockefeller Center 260 6th Avenue (Avenue of the Americas) (Between W. 50th St. and W. 51st St.) New York, NY 10020 The legendary New York Radio City Music Hall is the go-place for a distinctive musical experience. It’s famous for its Christmas Spectacular and performances by the Rockettes. This venue seats more than 6,500 people in an opulent Art Deco theatre dating from the 1930s. Many famous musicians have got their big break here. If you want to visit, you may need to purchase tickets well in advance. There are refreshments located throughout the theatre, so people can enjoy drinks and food while they relax and enjoy the performance. The live shows for America’s Got Talent are now performed at this venue. Book Tickets Now OPENING HOURS Box Office hours: Mon - Sat: 10:00am - 6:00 Sunday - CLOSED Venue hours vary. TRANSPORT Subway: Take the B, D or F trains to Rockefeller Center/50th St. CONTACT Tel: +1 212-465-6741 Find Out More MUSIC VENUES VILLAGE VANGUARD Village Vanguard 178 7th Avenue South New York, NY 10014 No venue quite speaks jazz quite like the New York Village Vanguard, a musical venue tucked away at 7th Avenue and 11th Street. The Village Vanguard has featured cutting-edge jazz for more than 80 years, and the walls are filled with photographs of the many famous jazz musicians who have performed there. Jazz greats such as Eartha Kitt, Miles Davis, John Coltrane and Dinah Washington have all entertained audiences at this inspiring venue which boasts impeccable acoustics. Guests can sip from a broad selection of classic cocktails while they indulge in the soothing jazz sounds and enjoy this marvellous music venue. Book Tickets Now OPENING HOURS Mon - Sun: 7:30pm – 12:00am TRANSPORT Subway: 1, 2 or 3 at 14th Street stop. B, D, F, M, A, C or E at West 4th Street stop. CONTACT Tel: 1 (212) 255-4037 SEND EMAIL Find Out More MUSIC VENUES Blogger Recommended DIZZY’S JAZZ CLUB Shops in Columbus Circle 10 Columbus Circle, NY 10019, United States Located high above the chaotic traffic of Columbus Circus, Dizzy’s Jazz Club is an iconic jazz club that blends world-class talent with one of the best views in the city. The venue is absolutely incredible, with the artists as silhouettes overlooking the expanse of Central Park. You can sip a classic cocktail and eat Southern-inspired cuisine while listening to toe-tapping melodies — and then pop down to French and Italian bistro Landmarc for a nightcap. Book a table OPENING HOURS Mon-Sun: 5.00pm - 11.45pm TRANSPORT Subway: Take the 1 or 2 line to Broadway with W 66th Street Bus: Take the M5, M7, M10, M20 or M104 to Broadway between W 60th and W 61st Street CONTACT Tel: +1 212-258-9595 Find Out More MUSIC VENUES Blogger Recommended BROOKLYN BOWL 61 Wythe Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11249, United States Don’t be fooled: Brooklyn Bowl is actually a working bowling alley. But more than strikes and pins, Brooklyn Bowl is known as one of the most cutting-edge music venues in New York City. Featuring excellent food, a full bar and a stage that overlooks the bowling alley, Brooklyn Bowl features up-and-coming artists in rap and rock as well as ongoing events like its popular Bluegrass Brunch. Stop by neighbouring Brooklyn Brewery for a local brew or head up to the rooftop at Wythe Hotel across the street for a cocktail before the show. Check their website for upcoming shows. Book Tickets Now OPENING HOURS Mon-Fri: 6.00pm - Close Sat-Sun: 11.00am - Close (times may vary spring and summer) TRANSPORT Subway: Nearest subway service is the G line to Manhattan Avenue between Norman Avenue and Nassau Avenue Bus: Take the B32 to N 9th Street with Wythe Avenue CONTACT Tel: 718-963-3369 Find Out More MUSIC VENUES Blogger Recommended PROSPECT PARK BANDSHELL 62 West Dr, Brooklyn, NY 11215 Once Memorial Day rolls around, Brooklyn residents know to check the line-up for the Celebrate Brooklyn: located in the heart of Prospect Park, the outdoor concert series is a summer highlight. Although bigger acts tend to be ticketed, there are plenty of free acts that just require showing up early to stake out a spot. You can pack food to picnic on, and alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks are sold at bars scattered around the venue. Bring a blanket or chairs, and plenty of friends for one of the best outdoor parties that happens almost every summer weekend. What’s On? OPENING HOURS Mon-Sun 5.00 am - 1.00 am TRANSPORT Subway: Take the F or G line to 15th Street with Prospect Park West Bus: Take the B61 to Bartel Pritchard Square with Prospect Park Southwest CONTACT SEND EMAIL Find Out More SOUND HOUNDS Things to See / Do When people plan to visit New York City, they may be overwhelmed by the plethora of things to see and do (New York likes to spoil people that way!). Among the top choices are a visit to Strawberry Fields, to Greenwich Village and taking a Birthplace of Hip Hop tour. Strawberry Fields Greenwich Village Birthplace of Hip Hop Yoga Class at Y7 Union Square Subway Dine at Café Moto THINGS TO SEE/DO VISIT STRAWBERRY FIELDS West Park Drive and West 72nd Street, Central Park, New York City, NY 10021 Located in the middle of Central Park, New York, Strawberry Fields is a living memorial to Beatles great John Lennon. It features a black and white mosaic that was presented as a gift by the city of Naples. Although the memorial derives its name from the song ‘Strawberry Fields Forever’, the GrecoRoman mosaic features the lyrics to the song ‘Imagine’. This is a dedicated quiet zone in the park. In the summer, the area is surrounded by colourful flowers. Along a path is a plaque that lists 121 countries that have endorsed the memorial as a Garden of Peace. Location OPENING HOURS CONTACT Central Park is open from 6am to 1am daily. Tel: +1 212-310-6600 TRANSPORT Find Out More Subway: B or C at 72nd Street, or the 1, 2 or 3 trains at 72nd Street THINGS TO SEE/DO TAKE A STROLL AROUND GREENWICH VILLAGE Greenwich Village in downtown Manhattan stretches from Houston Street to 14th Street, and between Fourth Avenue (then the Bowery) and Sixth Avenue. Brownstones covered in ivy and Federalstyle homes dot Greenwich Village, one of the loveliest areas in New York. From the funky, bohemian shops to sidewalk cafes, craft stores and organic bakeries, taking a stroll around Greenwich Village is a unique experience. Once the home of writers and artists as Edgar Allen Poe, Henry James and Jackson Pollock, this upscale area is still infused with a bohemian vibe. In Washington Square Park, you can see a majestic arch that rises over its entrance way. You can also see where Bette Davis made her debut on the stage at the Provincetown Playhouse. Book a Tour TRANSPORT Subway: A, C, E, B, D, F, M to W 4th Street; L, N, Q, R, 4, 5, 6 to 14th Street; Union Sq; N, R to 8th Street; NYU 1 to Christopher St Sheridan Sq. Find Out More THINGS TO SEE/DO GO ON A BIRTHPLACE OF HIP HOP TOUR Near Bloomingdales in Midtown Manhattan. (Meeting location details will be provided immediately upon purchase of tickets) A true sense of the city can be experienced when you go on a New York Birthplace of Hip Hop Tour. This tour takes visitors through important sites in the Bronx and Harlem. You’ll get to watch B-Boy and B-Girl dance demonstrations and hear freestyle raps. Guests are also encouraged to display their own talents in the tour’s ‘Show Your Skills’ portion. The hosts regale visitors with first-person stories about the birth of hip hop and what the music’s first days were like, reminding them of yet another reason why New York is one of the most important cities in history. Book a Tour OPENING HOURS Wed, Fri and Saturdays: 11:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. TRANSPORT Subway: 4, 5, 6, N, or R to 59th Street. CONTACT Tel: +1 212-714-354 Find Out More THINGS TO SEE/DO Blogger Recommended YOGA CLASS AT Y7 240 Kent Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11249 New York City has no shortage of yoga studios and they all use sound in different ways, from the power of silence, the sacred chant, or an intertwining of popular and Indian music. But there are no yoga studios that use music quite like Y7: with locations in SoHo, Flatiron and Williamsburg, Y7 is emphatic that hip-hop and yoga can complement each other. Although hip-hop music can make it into almost any class, Hip-Hop Wednesdays and Sundays turn the volume way up on heavy beats and rap freestyles — in a way that (sometimes surprisingly) pushes your yoga practice even further. Book a Class TRANSPORT Subway: The nearest subway station is N 7th Street with Bedford Avenue. Take the L line. Bus: Take the B32 or Q59 to S 1st Street and Kent Avenue CONTACT Tel: +1 646-820-0781 Find Out More THINGS TO SEE/DO Blogger Recommended UNION SQUARE SUBWAY STATION East 14th Street, Park Avenue South & Broadway New York, NY 10003 Commuting on the New York City subway can be many things: convenient, frustrating, a tight squeeze. But rarely is it quiet. From breakdancers blasting hip-hop and swinging around the pole in your subway car to buskers singing acoustic covers on the platform, it can be a veritable concert almost anywhere you go. But the most reliable place for the best music is in the heart of the Union Square subway station, located on the uppermost level between the stairs to the NQR uptown and downtown tracks. From a full brass band to an 11-year-old piano player prodigy, you can always count on overhearing something that will make you want to take out your headphones. Subway Maps OPENING TIMES Daily: 24 hours Find Out More THINGS TO SEE/DO Blogger Recommended DINE AT CAFÉ MOTO 394 Broadway, Brooklyn, NY 11211 From the outside, this restaurant is fairly unassuming and is located directly under the elevated JMZ subway line. Once you open the heavy metal door flaking with peeling paint, you’re magically transported to an oldworld café and bar. The fantastic horseshoe bar serves up class cocktails and rustic American fare, but what really makes it all flow is the live music show every night. Take a seat at a candle-lit table and enjoy the acoustic folk music as you enjoy your food, drinks and company. What’s on the Menu OPENING HOURS Twilight drink: 5.30pm - 7.30pm Dinner: 6.00pm - 12.00am nightly Brunch: 11.00 am - 4.00 pm Sat and Sun CONTACT Tel: +1 718-599-6895 TRANSPORT Subway: Take the G line to Broadway with Union Avenue, or J or M to Hewes St with Hooper Street Bus: Take the B60 to S 5th Street with Hooper Street Find Out More NY FOR YOU Party Animals New York isn’t nicknamed the city that never sleeps for nothing - the city has some of the best bars and nightclubs in America. NYC is truly a party animal’s paradise, with everything from stylish rooftop bars like Upstairs NYC to the classic speakeasystyle cocktail haven at Dutch Kills. Visitors can also head to Harlem for something reminiscent of the 1920s or check out Dive Bar for ice cold beer and New York banter. Stay out all night long at celebrated nightclubs like Pacha, Output and Marquee. BEST BARS BEST BEER BARS BEST ROOFTOP BARS BEST NIGHTCLUBS PARTY ANIMALS Best Bars Whether you like an ice cold beer or a singapore sling New York is buzzing with bars of all shapes and sizes. We’ve put together a selection of bars that will give you a true taste of NYC pub scene. Get ready for ambience and style in abundance. Dive Bar Ginnys Club/Red Rooster Dutch Kills Phoenix Bar Hotel Chantelle The Levee BEST BARS DIVE BAR 1) 101 W 75th Street NYC 75th and Columbus 2) 732 Amsterdam Ave NYC 96th and Amsterdam 3) 2662 Broadway NYC 101st and Broadway The pulse of the Dive Bar beats with the classic vibe of a New York neighbourhood bar. The bar offers a constantly changing selection of beers so that you never have to drink the same type twice. People can pair their beer of choice with an appetizer or full meal from the bar’s food menu. Why not try some of the quirkily named sandwiches on the menu, such as the ‘Ultimate Seinfeld Sandwich’, at the 96th and Amsterdam location. Events are scheduled nightly for constant entertainment. Depending on which evening you visit, you might enjoy sports, trivia or live music. What’s on the Menu OPENING HOURS CONTACT 75th and Columbus: Mon - Thur: 12.00pm - 4.00am 1) Tel: 212-362-7518 96th and Amsterdam: Sun - Mon: 11.30am - 4.00am 3) Tel: 212- 865-2662 101st and Broadway: Sun-Mon: 12.00pm - 4.00am 2) Tel: (212) 749-4358 Find Out More BEST BARS GINNY’S SUPER CLUB / THE RED ROOSTER HARLEM 310 Lenox Avenue, New York, NY 10027 Any successful visit to New York’s bars is not complete without heading to Harlem to experience the sister bars of Ginny’s Supper Club and the Red Rooster Harlem. Downstairs at Ginny’s Supper Club, you can sample soul food and relax with live music in an atmosphere that brings back the feel of 1920s Harlem with all its glamour. Upstairs at the Red Rooster Harlem, it’s all about taking American cuisine back to its roots and soaking up the diverse culinary traditions of Harlem itself. You can also sip signature or classic cocktails, wine or other tipples from the drinks menus. What’s on the Menu Ginny’s Super Club Red Rooster Harlem BEST BARS GINNY’S SUPER CLUB TRANSPORT GINNY’S SUPER CLUB / THE Subway: The 2 &ROOSTER 3 express lines to 125th Street & Lenox RED HARLEM Avenue station are just steps away from the front door 310 Lenox Avenue, New York, NY 10027 of Ginny’s Supper Club and Red Rooster Harlem. The A, C, B and D lines at 125th Street and Saint Nicholas Avenue Station are 3 blocks away. Any successful visit to New York’s bars is Bus: not complete without heading to Harlem The 102 & 7 Buses stop directly in front of Red Rooster toand experience theClub. sister bars of Ginny’s Ginny’s Supper Supper Club and the Red Rooster Harlem. OPENINGat HOURS CONTACT Downstairs Ginny’s Supper Club, you can Brunch:soul food and relax Ginny’s Super Club sample with live music Sun, 10:30am-12.30pm Tel: 212 421 3821 in an atmosphere that brings back the feel of Dinner: 1920s Harlem with all its glamour. Upstairs Thur-Sat: 6.00pm-10.00pm Find out more at the Red Rooster Harlem, it’s all about taking American cuisine back to its roots and Close soaking up the diverse culinary traditions of Harlem itself. You can also sip signature or classic cocktails, wine or other tipples from the drinks menus. What’s on the Menu Ginny’s Super Club Red Rooster Harlem BEST BARS RED ROOSTER HARLEM TRANSPORT GINNY’S SUPER CLUB / THE Subway: The 2 &ROOSTER 3 express lines to 125th Street & Lenox RED HARLEM Avenue station are just steps away from the front door 310 Lenox Avenue, New York, NY 10027 of Ginny’s Supper Club and Red Rooster Harlem. The A, C, B and D lines at 125th Street and Saint Nicholas Avenue Station are 3 blocks away. Any successful visit to New York’s bars is Bus: not complete without heading to Harlem The 102 & 7 Buses stop directly in front of Red Rooster toand experience theClub. sister bars of Ginny’s Ginny’s Supper Supper Club and the Red Rooster Harlem. OPENINGat HOURS CONTACT Downstairs Ginny’s Supper Club, you can Brunch:soul food and relax Red Rooster Harlem sample with live music Sat-Sun, 10:00am-3.00pm Tel: 212 -792-9001 in an atmosphere that brings back the feel of Lunch: 1920s Harlem with all its glamour. Upstairs Mon-Fri, 11:30 am-3.30pm Find out more at the Red Rooster Harlem, it’s all about Dinner: taking American cuisine back to its roots and Mon-Thur, 4.30pm-10.30pm Fri, 4.30pm-11.30pm soaking up the diverse culinary traditions of Sat, 4.30pm-11.30pm Harlem itself. You can also sip signature or Sun, 4.30pm-10.00pm classic cocktails, wine or other tipples from the drinks menus. Close What’s on the Menu Ginny’s Super Club Red Rooster Harlem BEST BARS DUTCH KILLS 27-24 Jackson Ave, in Long Island City Queens The New York Dutch Kills bar is a cocktail destination heaven. The bar sits modestly behind a nondescript facade. Once inside, you’ll find yourself in a darkened bar with a speakeasy feel. A mixology expert and master bartenders work together to deliver both classic cocktails as well as craft ones. They’re known for having a good variety of delectable whiskey drinks. The bar’s entire atmosphere, including the musical selections (there’s even a rag time band!), is laidback, hailing back to a time when people knew how to just sit back, relax and sip their drinks over good food and conversation. What’s on the Menu OPENING HOURS 7 Days a Week: 5pm ‘til 2am (OR LATER) TRANSPORT Subway: E - M - R at Queens Plaza E - M - G at Court Square N - Q - 7 at Queensboro Plaza Find Out More BEST BARS Blogger Recommended PHOENIX BAR 447 E 13th St, Manhattan, New York, NY 10009 This gay bar located in the east village proudly boasts the accolade of having the best jukebox in the city. It’s also a bar that cherishes the local community and this warmth of spirit, as well as its will to roll with the times, has made it both endearing and a go-to place. On the weekend it’s a great bar to start your night before going out to one of New York’s many clubs. Friday nights are particularly fun as people from the world of film and fashion stop by for the Friday night party. Location OPENING HOURS 7 Days a Week: 3.00 pm - 4.00 am TRANSPORT Subway: Take the L train to E 14th Street with 1st Avenue Bus: Take the M14 A to E 14th Street with Avenue A CONTACT Tel: 212-477 9979 Find Out More BEST BARS Blogger Recommended HOTEL CHANTELLE 92 Ludlow St, New York, NY 10002 Head to Hotel Chantelle for a rooftop bar during the day and 3 bars during the evening on Friday’s and Saturday’s. Hotel Chantelle offers French flare with occasional live jazz music and brings together a mixture of lounge bar chic and high tempo dance space. Whether you like a laidback vibe or the latest modern pop music there is always something to please the crowd at this lively venue. Enjoy some fresh air on the roof terrace and a boozy brunch on Saturday mornings. Visit Now OPENING HOURS 7 Days a Week: Dinner: Tuesday-Saturday 5:00pm-11:00pm Brunch: Saturday - 10:00am – 5:00pm Sunday - 11:00am – 5:00pm Happy hour: Tues-Fri - 5:00pm - 8:00pm Late night: Thurs - 11:00pm - 4:00am Friday - 11:00pm - 4:00am Saturday - 11:00pm - 4:00am CONTACT Tel: (212) 254-9100 Find Out More BEST BARS Blogger Recommended THE LEVEE 212 Berry St, Brooklyn, NY 11211 By far one of the best and most relaxed bars in New York offering decent priced drinks, where you can stop in with your friends or can easily make new friends. The Levee also has a wide selection of board games to play plus a pool table and darts to compliment their light snacks - that’s right free cheese puffs for all! During the warmer days of the year The Levee opens a garden out the back with tables that can be a great escape from the music inside. You’ll find The Levee attracts a young and vibrant crowd who are always ready for a good time. Location OPENING HOURS Monday - Sunday: 12:00 pm - 4:00 am CONTACT Tel: 718 218 8787 Find Out More PARTY ANIMALS Best Beer Bars After a long day’s travelling there’s nothing like stopping for an ice cold beer - luckily NYC is brimming with trendy beer bars. From social hotspots like Blind Tiger where the New York workforce chill out after a shift to innovative microbreweries like Gunhill Brewery, New York has got you covered if you love a good beer. Skinny Dennis Battery Harris Glorietta Baldy Ginhill Brewery D.B.A Radegast & Biergarten Blind Tiger BEST BEER BARS SKINNY DENNIS Skinny Dennis,152 Metroplitan Ave Brooklyn, NY 11211 A honky-tonk bar in the centre of Brooklyn is totally unexpected, which is what makes Skinny Dennis so great. A jukebox plays a mix of classic country favourites and Southern rock songs, and a painted portrait of Willie Nelson hangs behind the bar. Some of the seats have been pulled right from pickup trucks, and there are a few vintage video games throughout the space. Aside from the unusual decor, New York’s Skinny Dennis has earned a reputation for serving cheap cans of domestic beer as well as a variety of craft beers on tap. Patrons can snack on hot peanuts while sipping beer in a relaxed and undeniably cool atmosphere. What’s on the Menu OPENING HOURS 7 Days a Week: 5:00pm - 2:00am (or later) TRANSPORT Subway: L at Bedford Ave. Find Out More BEST BEER BARS BATTERY HARRIS 64 Frost Street at Meeker / Lorimer Williamsburg, Brooklyn 11211, New York, NY 10020 When the weather is nice, Battery Harris in Brooklyn is the ultimate spot to enjoy a meal outside on the patio and sip on a pitcher of draft beer. Even if the New York weather is a little chilly, the Caribbean theme of the New York Battery Harris will make visitors forget all about what’s going on outside. There are few better places in Brooklyn for a boozy lunch than Battery Harris, which offers an extensive brunch menu. Visitors can pair local craft beers and bottled Caribbean ales with special dishes like candied plantains or an oxtail hash with fried eggs. What’s on the Menu OPENING HOURS 7 Days a Week: Mon - Wed: 2:30pm - 12:00am Thurs: 1:00pm - 2:00am Fri: 12:00pm - 4:00am Sat: 11:00pm - 4:00am Sun: 11:00am - 12:00am TRANSPORT Subway: L at Bedford Ave. Find Out More BEST BEER BARS GLORIETTA BALDY 502 Franklin Ave., Brooklyn, NY 11238 nr. Fulton St Glorietta Baldy is always jumping on the weekends and is lovingly referred to by its patrons as “That Bar Under the Stairs.” The craft brews on the menu change daily and visitors can look online to find out what the offerings are before heading in. Pretty much any beer lover will be able to find something to enjoy on the extensive list. The space is completely relaxed, so there’s no need to dress up while at the New York Glorietta Baldy. In between rounds of great beer have a shot on the pinball machines or enjoy live music most nights of the week. Book Venue OPENING HOURS 7 Days a Week: Mon - Fri: 4:00pm - 4:00am Sat - Sun: 2:00pm - 4:00pm TRANSPORT Subway: C, S at Franklin Ave.; A, C at Nostrand Ave. Find Out More BEST BEER BARS GUNHILL BREWERY 3227 Laconia Ave. Bronx, N.Y. 10469 Set within the Bronx, Gun Hill brought local brewing back to the borough. It is designated as a farm beer making company because it sources many ingredients locally. Named after the mound where colonists stored weapons and ammunition during the American Revolution, this microbrewery produces a range of ales, stouts and seasonal beers. The brewery’s public tasting room serves hand-crafted beers on tap and from the bottle. Hop on the 2, 5 or 6 trains to have a taste - perfect for the beer enthusiasts visiting NYC! What’s on the Menu OPENING HOURS 7 Days a Week: Mon - Wed: 2:30pm - 9:00pm Thurs: 1:00pm - 9:00pm Fri: 1:00pm - 11:00pm Sat: 12:00pm - 11:00pm Sun: 12:00pm - 9:00pm CONTACT Tel: (718) 881-0010 Find Out More BEST BEER BARS Blogger Recommended D.B.A 41, First Avenue near 2nd Street, New York, NY10003 Located in the heart of the east village, d.b.a. is a beer lover’s gem with enough space for almost everyone to enjoy their vast selection of beer. The bar has a backyard patio, almost unheard of in New York, and this is open until 10.00 pm. Their selection of beer — there are more than 60 varieties — is cleverly curated so that it will appeal to a large selection of beer connoisseurs. If you’re hungry, they’ll even let you bring your own food in to go with your beer. Location OPENING HOURS 7 Days a Week: 12.00 pm - 4.00 am TRANSPORT Subway: Take the F to 2nd Avenue Bus: Take the M15-SBS to 1 E Street with 1 Avenue CONTACT Tel: 212-475-5097 Find Out More BEST BEER BARS Blogger Recommended RADEGAST HALL AND BIERGARTEN 113 N 3rd St, Brooklyn, NY 11249 This authentic large beer garden in Williamsburg has a German vibe that gives you the pleasant impression that you have stepped back in time and left the country. The bar serves up large litres of beer on tap with plenty of long tables that attract fun people who are all looking to appreciate fine beer with friends. Naturally, this is one of the coolest places to go if you wish to celebrate Oktoberfest here! And if you enjoy music, you’ll be pleased to hear that there are live performances at the garden every day. Location OPENING HOURS Mon-Thur: 12.00pm - 2.00am Fri: 12.00pm - 3.00am Sat: 11.00am - 3.00am Sun: 11.00am - 2.00am TRANSPORT Subway: Take the L train to Bedway Street with N 7th Street Bus: Take the B62 to N 3rd Street with Bedford Avenue CONTACT Tel: 718-963-3973 Find Out More BEST BEER BARS Blogger Recommended BLIND TIGER 281 Bleecker St, New York, NY 10014 Not for the typical beer consumer, Blind Tiger is where you go when you love your beer and already know what suits your taste buds. This fantastic bar has achieved legendary status and everyone in New York loves Blind Tiger. It’s best to try their diverse selection of draft beers mid-day before everyone else gets out of work. Otherwise be prepared to see what a really packed bar in New York is like! And if you like cheese, you’ll love Blind Tiger. Every Wednesday at 6.00 pm they put out cheese for guests to enjoy free! Visit Now OPENING HOURS 7 Days a Week: Mon-Sun: 11.30am - 4.00am TRANSPORT Subway: Take the 1 or 2 to Christopher Street with Sheridan Square Bus: Take the M20 to Bleecker St with Barrow Street CONTACT Tel: 212-462-4682 Find Out More PARTY ANIMALS Best Rooftop Bars When you’re planning your trip you should learn about New York’s best rooftop bars. You can party the night away, sipping on your favourite tipples while you gaze across the city skyline. In this section are a number of cool rooftop bars you’ll want to visit while you’re in the city. Loopy Doopy Upstairs NYC The Ides Vista Sky Lounge 230 Fifth Boom Boom Room Ravel Hotel Rooftop BEST ROOFTOP BARS LOOPY DOOPY 102 North End Avenue, New York, NY 10282 Top Floor | Conrad New York On the 16th floor of the Conrad Hotel in New York, the Loopy Doopy Rooftop Bar offers delicious views of the Statue of Liberty and alcoholic ice pops. While you’re there you should try the Topsy Turvy, a lime and coconut cocktail which evokes a tropical paradise. You can also socialise with food platters as the Hudson River flows behind you. The olives, marinated mushrooms and freshly made hummus in the Mezze Platter work splendidly with wine. The Loopy Doopy’s Lychee Rose Sangria brings an innovative twist to the classic cocktail that can be enjoyed in beautiful tandem with the view. What’s on the Menu OPENING HOURS Mon-Thur: 4.00pm - 12.00am Fri-Sat: 12.00pm - 1.00am Sun: 12.00pm - 12.00am CONTACT Tel: (646) 769-4250 Find Out More BEST ROOFTOP BARS UPSTAIRS NYC Penthouse Level 145 East 50th Street New York City Sitting 30 storeys above midtown Manhattan, the Upstairs NYC rooftop bar provides 3,000 square feet of space, allowing guests to party atop the Kimberly Hotel. This bar is sophisticated and fun, with retractable walls, 360 degree panoramic views and cocktails that appeal to even the most discerning of tastes. The neo-Gothic, Art Deco flair couples with unparalleled views of the famous Chrysler Building. You can enjoy cocktails and conversation while nibbling on the bar’s small plate offerings. Don your best attire and try The Chrysler, a signature drink that blends honey, Hennessy and champagne for a luxurious New York experience. Visit Now OPENING HOURS Monday: 5.00pm - 12.00am Tue-Wed: 5.00pm - 1.00am Thur-Fri: 5.00pm - 2.00am Saturday: Brunch: 12.00pm - 4.00pm Upstairs opens: 4.00pm - 2.00am Sunday: Brunch: 12.00pm - 4.00pm Upstairs opens: 4.00pm - 11.00pm TRANSPORT Subway: Lexington Av/53 St, 59 St, 5 Av/59 St CONTACT Tel: 212 702 1600 Find Out More BEST ROOFTOP BARS THE IDES Wythe Ave & N 11th St, Brooklyn, NY 11249 Sitting 30 storeys above midtown Manhattan, the Upstairs NYC rooftop bar provides 3,000 square feet of space, allowing guests to party atop the Kimberly Hotel. This bar is sophisticated and fun, with retractable walls, 360 degree panoramic views and cocktails that appeal to even the most discerning of tastes. The neo-Gothic, Art Deco flair couples with unparalleled views of the famous Chrysler Building. You can enjoy cocktails and conversation while nibbling on the bar’s small plate offerings. Don your best attire and try The Chrysler, a signature drink that blends honey, Hennessy and champagne for a luxurious New York experience. Book a Table OPENING HOURS Mon-Fri: Opens 4.00pm Sar-Sun: Opens 2.00pm Find Out More Transport BEST ROOFTOP BARS TRANSPORT 10 minutes from Manhattan by taxi THE6 minutes IDESwalk to East River Ferry Wythe Ave & N 11th St, Brooklyn, NY 11249 7 minutes walk to Bedford L subway stop 9 minutes walk to Nassau G subway stop minutes walk from Marcy JMZ subway stop Sitting1530 storeys above midtown Manhattan, the Upstairs NYC rooftop 15 minutes from LaGuardia Airport by taxi bar provides 3,000 square feet of space, 25 minutes from Airport by taxi allowing guests toJFK party atop the Kimberly Hotel. This bar is sophisticated and fun, with Close retractable walls, 360 degree panoramic views and cocktails that appeal to even the most discerning of tastes. The neo-Gothic, Art Deco flair couples with unparalleled views of the famous Chrysler Building. You can enjoy cocktails and conversation while nibbling on the bar’s small plate offerings. Don your best attire and try The Chrysler, a signature drink that blends honey, Hennessy and champagne for a luxurious New York experience. Book a Table OPENING HOURS Mon-Fri: Opens 4.00pm Sar-Sun: Opens 2.00pm Find Out More Transport BEST ROOFTOP BARS VISTA SKY LOUNGE Four Points by Sheraton Long Island City 27-05 39th Avenue Long Island City, NY 11101 On the outskirts of Queens and easily accessible from Manhattan is the Vista Sky Lounge. Travellers often stand in awe at the views offered at the top of the Four Points by Sheraton Hotel, where the Vista Sky Lounge can be found. Enjoy an upmarket dining menu featuring delicious appetisers and sharing platters. The drinks are just as impressive, and top beverage picks include the lychee Martini and the chilled rose wines. All are served up as you gaze out towards Queensboro Bridge and glittering Manhattan landmarks like the Empire State Building. Vista is the perfect venue for a special birthday or event. What’s on the Menu OPENING HOURS Sun -Thu: 5.00pm - 1.00am Fri -Sat: 5.00pm - 3.00am CONTACT Tel: 347-536-3640 Find Out More BEST ROOFTOP BARS Blogger Recommended 230 FIFTH 230 5th Ave, New York, NY 10001, United States Located on 27th Street cornering with 5th Avenue, the New York rooftop bar 230 FIFTH gifts you with views of the Manhattan skyline. With an indoor and outdoor space it’s perfect all year round for a visit. Try their famous mojitos during the summer — even the mint leaves they use are grown organically on site! During the chilly days of fall/winter, you can still access the roof. They have comfy, red robes available on loan! Sit in heated areas and enjoy their hot chocolate. You have the Empire State Building as your backdrop, so don’t forget to take a selfie! What’s on? OPENING HOURS Mon-Fri: 4.00pm - 4.00am Sat-Sun: 10.00am - 4.00am CONTACT Tel: +1 212-725-4300 Find Out More BEST ROOFTOP BARS Blogger Recommended THE STANDARD HOTEL BOOM BOOM ROOM 848 Washington St, New York, NY 10014 The top of the Standard Hotel is a must goto for their one and only Boom Boom Room! The floor-to-ceiling windows of this New York rooftop bar let the light flood in, resulting in a stunning establishment with inspiring views from every angle. The upscale crowd is energetic and ready for anything, with wonderful staff who can keep up with them. Check their schedule for live bands, especially if you enjoy jazz, and forgo your usual drink to try their signature cocktails instead. The rooftop has great little tables, lit by candlelight for a romantic ambience. What’s on? OPENING HOURS Mon 4.00 - 12.00 am Tue - Sat 4.00 - 9.00 pm Sun 12.00 pm - 12.00 am TRANSPORT Subway: Take the A, C or E train to W 14 Street between 8th and 9th Avenue Bus: Take the M11, M12, M14A or M14D bus to W 14 Street/ Washington Street CONTACT Tel: 212 645 7600 Find Out More BEST ROOFTOP BARS Blogger Recommended RAVEL HOTEL ROOFTOP BAR 8-08 Queens Plaza South, Long Island City, NY 11101 Take a break from the Manhattan scene, and head over to Long Island City (Queens) for an amazing rooftop bar located in the Ravel Hotel. Just a few stops from Manhattan, you can’t beat its proximity. You can take a photo there almost as if you were under the Queensboro Bridge. Ravel showcases some of the hottest DJs, spinning everything from house music to Top 40, as well as other types of music. Once you feel the rhythm, you won’t be able to stop moving your body! Ravel also has tasty drinks, delicious food, and provides a great ambience. What’s on? OPENING HOURS Hotel is open 24 hours a day CONTACT Tel: 212 645 7600 Find Out More PARTY ANIMALS Best Nightclubs Renowned as the city that never sleeps, it should come as no surprise that New York boasts some of the best nightlife venues on the planet. Read about some of the finest clubs in New York in this section, which have that big city vibe as well as drinks, dancing and music. Le Bain Pacha Marqee Lavo NYC Output Cavo BEST NIGHTCLUBS LE BAIN 848 Washington at 13th Street New York 10014 In the heart of the trending Meatpacking District is Le Bain, a nightclub at the top of the Standard Hotel. The club offers an amazing city view which you can appreciate through enormous glass windows. At night, the city lights up in a spectacular display that serves as the backdrop to the excitement in the club. With international-class DJs, a summer rooftop and refreshing drinks, Le Bain meets all expectations. What’s on the Menu OPENING HOURS Monday: 4.00pm - 12.00am Tue - Thurs 4.00pm - 4.00am Fri - Sat: 2.00pm - 4.00am Sunday: 2.00pm - 3.00am TRANSPORT Subway: Take the A, C, E at 14th St. CONTACT Tel: 212-645-7600 Find Out More BEST NIGHTCLUBS PACHA Pacha New York 618 W.46th Street New York, NY 10036 Serious nightlife aficionados might recognise the name Pacha from travels to Ibiza. The New York Pacha is owned and operated by the same group, and it shares the hedonistic, party-until-dawn vibe that has made Ibiza famous. Pacha is an enormous venue that boasts more than 30,000 square feet and four distinct levels, each with their own special character and décor. LED walls and interactive screens add that incredible Ibiza spirit to the rooms. Events are held frequently at the club. Sign up in advance to get on the guest list, or pay extra for VIP entry and a set number of drinks throughout the night. Book Tickets Now OPENING HOURS Monday: 4.00pm - 12.00am Tue - Thurs 4.00pm - 4.00am Fri - Sat: 2.00pm - 4.00am Sunday: 2.00pm - 3.00am TRANSPORT Subway: Take the A, C, E at 42nd St.Port Authority Bus Terminal CONTACT Tel: (212) 209-7500 Find Out More BEST NIGHTCLUBS MARQUEE Marquee New York 289 10th Ave, New York, NY 10001 The New York nightclub Marquee is iconic and undergoes a Renaissance every few years to remain one of the Big Apple’s top nightlife spots. High ceilings and screens surround the main dance floors, and top acts from around the world are often found on the events calendar. Getting entry at New York Marquee is an efficient process. There are three queues: one for people who have bought tickets in advance, one for those without tickets hoping for general admission and one for those planning on reserving table service for the night. The dress code is ‘upscale and trendy’, so dress to impress and be ready to dance. Book Tickets Now OPENING HOURS Wed, Fri & Sat: 11.00pm - 4.00am TRANSPORT Subway: Take the C, E at 23rd St. CONTACT Tel: 646-473-0202 Find Out More BEST NIGHTCLUBS Blogger Recommended LAVO NYC 39 E 58th St, New York, NY 10022 Get your best outfit on and be prepared for some photo ops (since you might run into a few celebrities) Lavo NYC in the midtown east neighborhood. The interior is classy and the space itself is beautiful, upscale and very chic, with several crystal chandeliers. The tables are large, (at least 6 to 10 people can fit) and all face the DJ booth, providing a great view of the music set. The VIP tables have cool hidden storage for ladies to put away their clutches. And the music itself is diverse: rap, house and even remixes of old hits —they play it all! Lavo NYC Blog OPENING HOURS Restaurant: Mon - Wed: 11.00am - 12.00am Thur - Sun: 11.30am - 1.00am Nightclub: Thur - Sat: 11.00pm - 4.00am TRANSPORT Subway: Take the N, Q, R , or 4, 5, 6 lines to Lexington Avenue / 59 Street Bus: Take the M1, M2, M3 or M4 CONTACT Tel: 212 584 2700 Find Out More BEST NIGHTCLUBS Blogger Recommended OUTPUT 74 Wythe Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11249, United States New York Output is a major nightclub in Williamsburg, Brooklyn. The club has an open dance floor and a second floor that wraps around it, so you can watch the masses moving to the music. There’s more of an underground, grungy raw vibe with world-renowned artists playing on any given night. In addition to the awesome main room, there’s the Panther Room and the rooftop. The music depends on the DJ, so plan ahead by checking their website. If you enjoy electronic dance music, Output is for you. It’s a treat to hear drum and bass there — Output has one of the only systems in NYC that can handle the sound! Location OPENING HOURS 7 Days a Week: 10.00 pm to 3.00 am May very depending on the event TRANSPORT Subway: Nearest subway station is several streets away. Take the G line to Nassau Avenue. Bus: Take the B32 to Kent Avenue / N 12th Street CONTACT SEND EMAIL Find Out More BEST NIGHTCLUBS Blogger Recommended CAVO 42-18 31st Ave, Astoria, NY 11103 At night, Cavo transforms from a stylish restaurant into a nightclub that hosts some of the hottest parties and DJs. Imagine a big main room that fits hundreds of people with lights, amazing sound, go-go dancers, electronic violinist and other amazing performers. There are two rooms. One is like a bar scene which still draws a crowd, but with a more chilled and relaxed scene. The second room is the club area with high ceilings, a DJ booth in the sky, VIP tables, large dance floor and a huge bar. Cavo is known for its themed nights, Mediterranean, Euro-Latin and much more. Location OPENING HOURS Tue-Thur: 5.00pm - 2.00am Fri-Sat: 5.00pm - 4.00am Sunday: 5.00pm - 12.00am CONTACT Tel: 718-721-1001 Find Out More NY FOR YOU Contributors Jessica Tiare Bowen Dyanna Dawson Johnnybell Sanchez Christin Amorose Olga M. Czarkowski Tracy Kaler Freddy Rodriguez CONTRIBUTORS JESSICA TIARE BOWEN www.usedyorkcity.com A founder of Used York City an online travel magazine dedicated to providing readers with the best New York City has to offer…as used by New Yorkers. The Morgan Library Armstrong Museum Museum of NYC Ahoy New York Accomplice: New York Soundwalk Street Art Walk Please Touch the Art Panorama CONTRIBUTORS DYANNA DAWSON www.thesfstyle.com Street Fashion Style photographer and coauthor of Street Fashion Photography: Taking Stylish Pictures on the Concrete Runway. Museum at FIT Fashion Icons Martinis & Manicures Upper West Flea Market MoMA Design Store L-Train Vintage CONTRIBUTORS JOHNNYBELL SANCHEZ www.nytrendymoms.com Founded in December 2011 by Johnnybell Sanchez, NYTrendyMoms is one of the most influential blogs in New York City. HotelClub. com nominated NYTM as one of the top 20 New York City blogs in 2014. BKB Buvette Via Vai Los Amigos Tuck Shop Ample Hills Creamery CONTRIBUTORS CHRISTINE AMOROSE www.cestchristine.com Christine Amorose writes about travel, lifestyle and living in NYC at CestChristine. com. Follow Christine’s adventures in Brooklyn and beyond on Instagram. Dizzy’s Jazz Club Brooklyn Bowl Prospect Park Bandshell Yoga Class at Y7 Union Square Subway Cafe Moto CONTRIBUTORS OLGA MARIA CZARKOWSKI www.dreamsinheels.com Olga Maria of Dreams in Heels is a NYC based travel & style Latina Writer; who aims to inspire and to empower women to live a more adventurous and curious life. Leading by example, she intends to show you how to follow your dreams and to discover your inner self, doing it all with style! Her excursions of culture have led her to Asia, Europe, Latin America, The Caribbean, across United States and Canada. Join Olga on her next adventure via DIH Blogazine’s social media username, Dreamsinheels. 230 Fifth Boom Boom Room The Ravel Hotel Lavo Output Cavo CONTRIBUTORS TRACY KALER www.tracysnewyorklife.com Tracy Kaler is a lifestyle and travel writer, and founder/editor of the popular NYC blog, Tracy’s New York Life. Tracy’s writing has appeared in Metro NY, BrickUnderground, Business Insider, Olive Oil Times, The Epoch Times, Mabuhay Magazine, and other publications. She resides in New York City. Avenue Q Trip of Love The 39 Steps Beautiful On Your Feet An American in Paris CONTRIBUTORS FREDDY RODRIGUEZ www.blueperk.net Freddy Rodriguez is a southern Texas transplant currently living between New York City and Berlin blogging about his travels, fashion, and experiences on his website, Blue Perk. D.B.A Radegast Hall Blind Tiger Phoenix Hotel Chantelle The Levee MAIN MENU Guide by Borough New York’s boroughs are distinct, with individual personalities, landmark buildings and plenty of Big Apple charm. Whether you want to stroll through Central Park in Manhattan, cheer on the Yankees in the Bronx, climb aboard the Staten Island Ferry, sip cocktails in Queens, or see art in Brooklyn, start the adventure with our borough guide. Manhattan Bronx Brooklyn Staten Island Queens GUIDE BY BOROUGH MANHATTAN Forming the core of the Big Apple, Manhattan in New York features exceptional museums, fine dining, a remarkable skyline and several green spaces, including Central Park. From the diverse mix of neighbourhoods and shopping opportunities to the bright lights of Broadway and Times Square, Manhattan offers visitors an exciting medley. Attractions Must-See Shows Restaurants Museums Shopping Bars Nightclubs MANHATTAN ATTRACTIONS Explorers and experience junkies will simply love New York. With its stellar shows, terrific tours, iconic buildings and vibrant venues, plus a host of splendid restaurants, it’s the greatest city in the world to experience something new. Here are a few places where you can revel in the magic of New York. Statue of Liberty Empire State Building Rockefeller Center Times Square Central Park ATTRACTIONS STATUE OF LIBERTY The Statue of Liberty is the most famous symbol of freedom and democracy in the world. Standing tall on Liberty Island, the statue watches over New York Harbour. Designed by sculptor Fréderic Bartholdi and engineer Gustave Eiffel, the statue was a gift of friendship from France on the centenary of American Independence in 1846. This inspiring colossus is made from copper, steel and iron, with a design that draws on classical elements and iconography. The statue’s design and construction made it one of the 19th century’s greatest technical achievements. Sightseers can visit the statue’s crown and pedestal – the view of the harbour from the crown is unbelievable. Book Tickets Now OPENING HOURS Summer operating hours at the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island begin Memorial Day weekend. They are in operation from late May until early September. Catch a boat at 8:30am, any day of the week, from either Battery Park in Lower Manhattan or Liberty State Park in Jersey City, New Jersey. Don’t miss the last boats back to NYC, departing at 6:45pm. CONTACT Tel: 1-877-523-9849 Tel: 201-604-2800 Find Out More ATTRACTIONS EMPIRE STATE BUILDING 338-350 5th Avenue, New York, NY 10118, USA The Empire State Building truly reaches for the skies with 102 storeys; it boasts both a main deck on the 86th floor and a top deck, which stands on the 102nd. Both decks have observatories for you to take in the views of the city skyline. In 1931, President Hoover opened the building and switched on its lights, and since 1976 the lights have observed a tradition of changing colour to acknowledge different events and organisations throughout the year. The museum features exhibitions such as ‘Dare to Dream’, which tells the story of this immense building and pays tribute to the brilliance of those involved in its creation. Book Tickets Now TRANSPORT Subway: Nearest Subways: 6 to 33rd Street; B/D/F, Q, or 1/2/3 to 34th Street TIMES Open every day: 8:00am to 2:00am. Including all holidays, 365 days a year, rain or shine *The last elevator up is at 1:15AM. Find Out More ATTRACTIONS ROCKEFELLER CENTER 338-350 5th Avenue, New York, NY 10118, USA Developed with the firm belief that art is an act of good citizenship, the Rockefeller Center is a major US landmark and a cultural and commercial hub. Sculptures and works of art recount the development of human spirit, science and industry, while the Radio City Music Hall offers performances and tours. Visitors can also take in the Rockefeller Center’s NBC Studios with an entertaining behind-the-scenes tour, or see a popular show here. Round off your visit with a bite to eat in the Rockefeller Center concourse — or refuel for action on the ice rink! Top it all off by capturing the stellar view from the observation deck on the 70th floor. Book Tickets Now TRANSPORT Subway: B D F M TRAINS: Take the B, D, F, or M train to the 47-50th Street Rockefeller Center stop. CONTACT Tel : 212.332.6868 Find Out More TICKET PRICES Adult Child (6-12) Senior (62+) Rock MoMA Combo Sun & Stars (Adult) Sun & Stars (Child) Rockefeller Center Tour Rock Pass $30.00 $24.00 $28.00 $45.00 $45.00 $36.00 $20.00 $42.00 ATTRACTIONS TIMES SQUARE Manhattan, NY 10036, United States Visit Times Square, ‘The Crossroads of the World’, and experience this iconic New York City hub. Famed for its New Year celebrations, Times Square in Mid Manhattan is packed with attractions, shops and places to eat and drink: Madame Tussauds, Ripley’s Believe It or Not!, Discovery Times Square and the Hard Rock Café are all there waiting for you to drop by. Dine out on Times Square’s famous ‘Restaurant Row’ before capturing blues, jazz, cabaret and comedy at the various clubs in Times Square, or a musical on Broadway. Better yet, why not do it all? Location CONTACT Tel : (646) 663 – 5872 Find Out More ATTRACTIONS CENTRAL PARK You’ve seen it in the movies, but the verdant space of Central Park in Manhattan is even more beautiful in real life. This carefully conserved park of 843 acres features fantastically green areas such as the Great Lawn and the formal Conservatory Garden. There are also lakes, ponds, pools, ravines and even a loch! Seize the opportunity to zip around on the Wollman Rink as well if you’re there in the winter months. Fun sculptures like Alice in Wonderland are dotted around the park, while the Strawberry Fields John Lennon memorial is an inspiring spot to wile away an hour. Central Park radiates the essence of the Big Apple! Book a Tour OPENING HOURS Daily: 6am-1am Transport Find Out More TOURIST ATTRACTIONS TRANSPORT Subway: Central Park is accessible by subway, with the A, B, C, D, and 1 trains stopping at Columbus Cir (on the southwest corner of the park) CENTRAL PARK B and C local trains continuing along Central Park W, with stops at 72nd St, 81st St (under the Natural History Museum on the Upper West Side), 86th St, 96th St, 103rd St, and 110 St. You’ve seen it in the movies, but the verdant space of Central Park in Manhattan is even Somewhat further west, the 1 (local) and 2/3 more beautiful realuplife. This carefully (express) lines in travel Broadway, though that avenue angles further to the west conserved parkfurther of 843and acres features northward from Columbus Cir.The 2/3 also stop fantastically green areas such as the Great at 110th St and Lenox Ave, near the northeast Lawn and thepark. formal Conservatory Garden. corner of the There are also lakes, ponds, pools, ravines On the Upper East Side, the park can be and even abyloch! Seize opportunity to zip accessed taking the 4,the 5, and 6 lines along Lexington Ave Wollman and walking 3 blocks west. around on the Rink as well if you’re There is also a stop on the N, Q and R lines at there in the winter months. Fun sculptures 5th Ave and 60th St, and a stop on the F train like Wonderland are dotted around at Alice 57th Stinand 6th Ave, both near the southern limits of the park. the park, while the Strawberry Fields John Lennon memorial is an inspiring spot to wile Close away an hour. Central Park radiates the essence of the Big Apple! Book a Tour OPENING HOURS Daily: 6am-1am Transport Find Out More MANHATTAN MUST-SEE SHOWS Broadway is an area in Manhattan that is also known as the Theatre District. When people speak of seeing a Broadway show, they are referring to a production held in one of the district’s 40 theatres seating 500 people each. While there are countless shows to take in, some of Broadway’s finest include The Lion King, Wicked and The Book of Mormon. The Lion King Wicked Book of Mormon Beautiful On Your Feet MUST-SEE SHOWS THE LION KING Minskoff Theatre, 200 W 45th St New York, NY It is hard to imagine bigger names than those involved in ‘The Lion King’, with music by Sir Elton John, lyrics by Sir Tim Rice and the score itself created by Hans Zimmer. This long-running Broadway show has impressed theatre buffs on stages around the world. Today, the musical tours different locales, but its city of origin and theatre home is New York City. The story of the young lion prince Simba has become a family favourite and received critical acclaim, evidenced by five Tony Awards and several more nominations. See ‘The Lion King’ in New York and savour this musical masterpiece. Book Tickets Now TRANSPORT Nearest Subway: The N, Q, R and W subway lines; the 1, 2, 3 and 7 subway lines; and the B, V, F and D subway lines will all take you to W 42 Street, a few streets down from the theatre. CONTACT Tel : 949-333-4001 TIMES Vary. Typically: Sunday: 1.00pm & 6.00pm Monday: No Shows Tuesday/Wed: 7.00pm Thurs/Fri: 8.00pm Saturday: 2.00pm & 8.00pm Find Out More MUST-SEE SHOWS WICKED The Gershwin Theatre 222 W. 51st St. (btw. Broadway & 8th Ave.) New York City Everyone grows up hearing the magical story of the Wizard of Oz, but the musical ‘Wicked’ gives an alternate version of the story for a captivating twist, telling the story of the witches of Oz before Dorothy set foot in the land. Showcased in the historic Gershwin Theatre, which has been hosting musicals for more than 20 years, ‘Wicked’ has won more than 100 international awards. These include a Grammy and three Tony Awards, while Entertainment Weekly has referred to it as the Best Musical of the Decade’ and The New York Times has called it ‘Broadway’s biggest blockbuster’. You don’t want to miss this! Book Tickets Now TRANSPORT Nearest Subway: C, E to 50th Street 1, 9 to 50th Street N, R to 49th Street TIMES Monday: No shows Tuesday/Wed: 7.00pm Thursday/Fri: 8.00pm Saturday: 2.00pm & 8.00pm Sunday: 2.00pm & 7.00pm Find Out More MUST-SEE SHOWS BOOK OF MORMON Eugene O’Neill Theatre 230 W. 49th St. New York, NY 10019 Playing in the Eugene O’Neill Theatre is ‘The Book of Mormon’, a satirical musical about two American Mormons who visit Uganda to try to convert the natives. Created in part by South Park writers Trey Stone and Matt Parker, this show is a youthful, progressive performance that bridges the gap between pop culture and musical theatre. The show has won 11 Tony Awards. Witty and irreverent, ‘The Book of Mormon’ runs for an enjoyable 2 hours 30 minutes with an intermission and boasts an incredible script and fantastic characters. The catchy tunes will have you singing along in no time. Book Tickets Now TRANSPORT Nearest Subway: Lines 1 and 2 will take you to West 50th Street, between 7th Avenue and Broadway, placing you just round the corner from the theatre. CONTACT Tel : (212) 239-6200 TIMES Monday: No shows Tue/Wed/Thurs: 7.00pm Fri: 8.00 pm Sat.2.00pm and 8.00pm Sun. 2.00pm and 7.00pm Find Out More MUST-SEE SHOWS Blogger Recommended BEAUTIFUL Stephen Sondheim Theatre 124 West 43rd Street, New York, NY 10036 Timeless tunes will keep your feet tapping and voice humming when you see ‘Beautiful’, the delightful, Grammy Awardwinning musical based on the true-life story of singer/songwriter Carole King. Just like her career, this inspiring show is brimming with hits, but it’s this girl’s mythical voice that transports her to stardom as she shapes a generation. Sung with passion and emotion, iconic songs you’ll hear include ‘It’s Too Late,’ ‘One Fine Day’ and ‘You’ve Got a Friend’, plus covers of classic songs such as ‘On Broadway’ and ‘Up on the Roof’. ‘Beautiful’ is simply the perfect way to describe this show. Book Tickets Now TRANSPORT Nearest Subway: Take the B, D, F, M to 42nd Street and 5th Avenue, the 7 or S to Times Square, or the 1, 2 or 3 to 42nd and 7th Avenue. Bus: Take the M6, M7, M10 or M20 CONTACT Tel : (212) 239-6200 TIMES Box Office: Mon-Sat 10.00 - 8.00pm Sun 12.00 - 6.00pm Find Out More MUST-SEE SHOWS Blogger Recommended ON YOUR FEET 46th Street between Broadway & 8th Avenue New York, NY 10036 We all remember dance numbers from the 1980s such as ‘Conga’ and “Rhythm is Gonna Get You’ performed by the Miami Sound Machine. This new musical, scheduled to begin previews October 5 at the Marquis Theater, explores the lives and relationship of Cuban power couple Gloria and Emilio Estefan, who have won 26 Grammy Awards between them. The show celebrates the incredible legacy of two gifted people with powerful vision and longlasting love, as they become international superstars. ‘On Your Feet’ is sure to lift spirits and bring back nostalgic memories simultaneously. Book Tickets Now TRANSPORT Nearest Subway: Take the B, D, F or M to W 48th Street and 6th Avenue Bus: Take the M7 to W 47th Street with 7th Avenue CONTACT Tel : (212) 840-5577 Find Out More MANHATTAN RESTAURANTS In New York you can find anything from small unique eateries in Chelsea Market to upscale celebrity chef-owned restaurants all just within blocks of each other. Daniel, Luka and Budakkan are just some of the best places to eat in the city, providing the magical cuisine and dining experiences that New York restaurants offer. Daniel Luka Budakkan BKB Buvette RESTAURANTS DANIEL 60 E. 65th St., New York City, NY 10065 (Park Avenue) Offering contemporary French cuisine, this flagship restaurant created by Daniel Boulud is the ultimate in sophistication, with a dress code of elegant or business attire. You can feast on innovative cuisine and choose from an extensive wine list while taking in the neo classical architecture of the restaurant. You can sip on a King Louie cocktail or other creative cocktails in the bar and lounge before sitting down to your meal. This double Michelin-starred restaurant also features a highly exclusive dining area, the Skybox, which allows the guests to watch the chefs in action while they prepare the food. Book a Table OPENING HOURS Dinner: Mon-Sat 5.30 -10.30 pm Bar and Lounge: Mon-Sat 5.30 pm-11.00 pm TRANSPORT Subway: Take the F train to Lexington Avenue/E 63rd Street. The restaurant is just two streets away. CONTACT Tel : 212 288-0033 Find Out More RESTAURANTS LUKA Grand Street 10002, New York, NY Luka isn’t just about serving fantastic food: it’s also about enjoying fabulous company. Socialising is a big part of the Luka dining experience, so if you like to meet new people, you’ll love Luka. Sit down at a communal table with other diners and the chef will give you a warm welcome.Guest chefs carefully prepare your meal, pairing it with the best drinks and a little New York flair. You should book at least 48 hours in advance to dine at this friendly restaurant. Eat at Luka and leave New York with an even larger circle of friends! Book a Table OPENING HOURS Monday : 19:00 - 23:30 Tuesay: 19:00 – 23:30 Wednesday: 19:00 - 23:30 Thursday: 19:00 - 23:30 Friday: 19:00 - 23:30 Weekend: 12:00 - 23:30 CONTACT Tel : (646) 663 – 5872 DRESS CODE Smart - casual Find Out More RESTAURANTS BUDAKKAN Chelsea Market, 75 Ninth Ave, New York, NY 10011, United States Enter Buddakan and the first thing you notice is that this restaurant, which serves modern Asian cuisine, oozes style: the art on the walls, elegant red and turquoise seating, brown tables and a series of ornaments all work together for a chic feel. This matches the dress code of ‘Downtown chic, fun, hip’, as the restaurant describes it! As well as fun dishes like Mao Poe Tofu and Mongolian lamb chops, order speciality cocktails. These blend ingredients such as cucumber, chilli, basil and watermelon for a unique but refreshing taste that dances on the palate. Book a Table OPENING HOURS Daily: 5.30pm – 1am CONTACT Tel : +1 212-989-6699 DRESS CODE Smart - casual Find Out More RESTAURANTS Blogger Recommended BKB 99 Gansevoort Street, New York, NY 10014 This is my current favorite seafood restaurant in NYC. They serve the best cocktails around, crisp to perfection and super refreshing. The food is off the scale! My favorite plate and top recommendation at BKB is the aged sirloin cooked medium, served with black pepper, aromatic rub & crispy lemon potatoes. If I’m in a party mood I like to pair it with El Catrin cocktail. They have an amazing double happy hour special every day from 5-7pm Book a Table OPENING HOURS Monday - Saturday: 5:00pm - 11:00pm *Closed on Sundays Find Out More RESTAURANTS Blogger Recommended BUVETTE Located on 42 Grove st, New York, NY 10014 Buvette is a charming little French restaurant serving small plates of rustic French food in the West Village. Part restaurant, part bar, part cafe they have something to offer everyone and being French they have a great variety of wines to choose from. They serve great brunches as well as my ‘off the menu’ favorite Brandade de Morue au Gratin, in other words Salted cod gratin served with warm crostini. If you are in a hurry just pop in for an espresso and enjoy the casual and relaxed vibe. Book a Table OPENING HOURS Open Daily: 8:00am - 2:00am Find Out More MANHATTAN MUSEUMS Travel back in time in the city that never sleeps. New York is home to some of the world’s best museums and travellers come from alll over the world to walk their hallowed halls. From natural history to art, music and fashion the Big Apple is big on museums. Natural History Whitney -American Art Metropolitan -Art Morgan Library Museum of NYC MUSEUMS AMERICAN MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY Central Park West at 79th Street, NY 10024-5192 Located at Central Park West and 79th Street in New York City, the New York American Museum of Natural History comprises 27 interconnected buildings that store one of the largest history collections in the world. Permanent and travelling exhibits include astronomy, space, oceans, animals and much more. You can learn about anatomy, metamorphosis and ecology at the museum’s popular annual butterfly exhibit. Movie buffs will enjoy the ‘Night at the Museum’ tour, which will take you past familiar exhibits and scenes from the comedy. The New York American Museum of Natural History can be accessed by subway, bus or car. Book Tickets Now OPENING HOURS CONTACT Open daily : 10 am - 5:45 pm Tel : 212-769-5100 Except on Thanksgiving and Christmas Find Out More Transport MUSEUMS TRANSPORT Subway: AMERICAN MUSEUM OF Take the B (weekdays only) or C to 81st Street. NATURAL Two blocks westHISTORY of the Museum, the 1 train stops at Broadway West 79th NY Street. For a Central Park West at and 79th Street, 10024-5192 full size subway map, follow this link to go to the Metropolitan Transit Authority Web site. PLEASE NOTE: For the duration of the Located at Central Park West and construction on the Manhattan Bridge the79th B subway line will not operate on the Upper West Street in New York City, the New York Side during the weekends. Weekday service will American Museum of Natural History not be affected during visitor hours, but the B train comprises 27 interconnected will stop running weeknights on thebuildings Upper Westthat at 10:45pm. storeSide one of the largest history collections in the world. Permanent and travelling exhibits include astronomy, space, oceans, Close animals and much more. You can learn about anatomy, metamorphosis and ecology at the museum’s popular annual butterfly exhibit. Movie buffs will enjoy the ‘Night at the Museum’ tour, which will take you past familiar exhibits and scenes from the comedy. The New York American Museum of Natural History can be accessed by subway, bus or car. Book Tickets Now OPENING HOURS CONTACT Open daily : 10 am - 5:45 pm Tel : 212-769-5100 Except on Thanksgiving and Christmas Find Out More Transport MUSEUMS WHITNEY MUSEUM OF AMERICAN ART 99 Gansevoort Street, New York, NY 10014 The New York Whitney Museum of American Art opened in 1932. Recognising some of the problems American artists faced exhibiting and selling their work, the sculptor and founder, Gertrude Vanderbilt Whitney, set up the museum to showcase exclusively American art. There are more than 21,000 pieces in the museum’s collection. Contemporary art, performance art, music and film all feature among the variety of exhibitions at the museum. The Biennial is the museum’s signature exhibition, is continuous and surveys recent developments in American art. The museum’s outdoor walkways, rooftop cafe and observation decks provide you with a great vantage point to admire the views of the city. Book Tickets Now OPENING HOURS Opening Times : Mon: 10.30 am – 6.00 pm Tues: Closed Wed: 10.30 am–6.00 pm Thur–Sat: 10.30am–10.00pm Sun: 10.30 am–6.00 pm TRANSPORT Subway: The closest lines are the A, C, E, and L at 14th Street CONTACT Tel : 212 570-3600 TICKETS Adult Senior Student Under 18 $22.00 $18.00 $18.00 $ 0.00 Find Out More MUSEUMS METROPOLITAN MUSEUM OF ART The Metropolitan Museum of Art, known locally as The Met, houses one of the world’s largest art collections. Exhibits include antique silver and jade collections, photography, sculpture, Chinese tapestries and American quilts as well as art from Egypt, medieval Europe, Africa and ancient Greece. The museum offers tours for adults, kids, teens and students. The New York Metropolitan Museum of Art is an extensive building, so plan for several days to explore it all. Take a guided tour or use a mobile device for self-guided touring apps. The Met is open every day, so just relax and enjoy the exhibits. Book Tickets Now Find Out More MUSEUMS Blogger Recommended THE MORGAN LIBRARY AND MUSEUM 225 Madison Avenue at 36th Street, New York, New York 10016 It is perhaps the love that people have for books that the Morgan Library and Museum could be considered integral to not only preserving New York’s history, but also ensuring its future. Located in midtown Manhattan, this museum is home to one of the world’s greatest collections of artistic, literary and musical works, ranging from ancient times to the present day. Both permanent and rotating exhibits are on display, and Mr. Morgan’s gorgeous collection is a must-see for both tourists and locals alike. Book Tickets Now OPENING HOURS Opening Times : Tue - Thur 10.30 am - 5.00 pm Fri. 10.30 am - 9.00 pm (Free admission Fridays 7.00 pm - 9.00 pm) Sat. 10.00 am - 6.00 pm Sun. 11.00 am - 6.00 pm TRANSPORT Subway: Take the line 6 to 33rd Street, or 4, 5, 6 or 7 to Grand Central Bus: Take the BxM10 to Madison Avenue / E 37 Street CONTACT Tel : 212 685-0008 Find Out More MUSEUMS Blogger Recommended MUSEUM OF THE CITY OF NEW YORK 1220 Fifth Avenue (at 103rd Street) New York, New York 10029 The large, elegant, colonial revival mansion that houses the Museum of the City of New York looks like a private home from the Gilded Age and represents the ultimate essence of New York style — classical on the outside, but modern and ready on the inside — for a diverse series of exhibits. This is a museum whose holdings are fluid, where new exhibitions about NYC continuously enter and exit, appropriately mirroring the important city outside while honouring the diversity of New York, the city’s continuous transformation and fastpaced mode of living. Book Tickets Now OPENING HOURS Opening Times : Mon-Sun 10.00 am - 6.00 pm TRANSPORT Subway: Take the 4 or 6 to Lexington Avenue with E 110 Street Bus: Take the M1, M2, M3 or M4 to E 104th Street with 5th Avenue CONTACT Tel : 212-534-1672 Find Out More MANHATTAN SHOPPING New York presents a mighty variety of shopping options. Choosing select destinations helps you get more out of your New York City shopping adventure. Whether you’re looking for upscale denim, classic brands or avant-garde fashion, some of the best choices include Brooklyn Industries, the International Playground and 3 X 1. International Playground 3x1 Upper West Flea Market MoMA Design Store Century 21 SHOPPING INTERNATIONAL PLAYGROUND 463 Broome St.Between Mercer & Greene New York, NY 10013 In Soho, fashion lovers can find International Playground amid the sea of flagship stores located there. This boutique focuses on niche fashions and European designs that have a dedicated following. Displayed on top of pristine white marble, you’ll see such brands as Heaven, a natural skincare line believed to be Kate Middleton’s favourite. You’ll also come across H. Fredriksson’s silkprinted dresses and chest plates as well as cage pieces by Chromat, which A-listers like Madonna and Beyoncé have famously worn during their musical performances. There are so many one-of-a-kind design options that a trip to International Playground could take hours. Playground Blog OPENING HOURS Open all week : Mon - Sat: 11.00am - 7.00pm Sunday: 12.00pm - 7.00pm TRANSPORT Subway: 4 and 6 to Spring St CONTACT Tel : (212) 228 2700 Find Out More SHOPPING 3x1 15 Mercer St New York, NY 10013, USA Heading to New York 3 X 1, located in the heart of Soho at 15 Mercer is a true fashion and shopping experience. The store features a glass-enclosed factory that custom-makes jeans for both women and men. You can watch the action as the jeans are created before your eyes. The store uses the best in top-quality and rare denims and sells bespoke jeans for people who want a little extra pizazz. The company has the most extensive collection of selvedge denim worldwide. Shop in New York City and bring home fashion straight from the Big Apple’s most creative minds. 3x1 Blog OPENING HOURS Open all week : Mon - Sat: 11.00am - 7.00pm Sunday: 12.00pm - 6.00pm TRANSPORT Subway: N/Q/R, J, 6 to Canal St CONTACT Tel : 212-391-6969 Find Out More SHOPPING Blogger Recommended UPPER WEST SIDE FLEA MARKET Address: 100 West 77th Street, New York, NY Every Sunday from 10:00am to 5:30pm local food, vintage and antique vendors set up their tables at PS452 on 77th and Columbus in the Upper West Side. It’s a unique opportunity to wander the halls of a New York City public school and get your shopping fix at the same time. Money raised from the flea market is used by local parents to provide enrichment opportunities for neighbornhood schools. Location OPENING HOURS Sunday: 10.00am - 5.30pm Find Out More SHOPPING Blogger Recommended MOMA DESIGN STORE 81 Spring Street, New York, NY The MoMa Design Store, an extension of the New York Museum of Modern Art, challenges you to “Live artfully!” by incorporating good design into all aspects of your space. In addition to the prints and books you’d expect from a museum store, they offer a carefully curated selection of contemporary, functional clothes and objects for your everyday life. This is a great place to buy a souvenir on your trip. What’s On? OPENING HOURS Sunday: 11.00am - 7.00pm Find Out More SHOPPING CENTURY 21 22 Cortlandt St btwn Church St & Broadway Fashionistas come to Century 21 for designer apparel up to 65 per cent off retail. Versace, Rachel Zoe and Transit are just some of the big names on offer at this premium yet affordably priced department store. Head to downtown New York or visit the Brooklyn location for deals on everything from dresses to heels. Century 21 also has deals on men’s and children’s clothing, and on beauty products, home decor and gadgets. Whether it’s a Gucci handbag or Ivanka Trump boots, you won’t be able to resist the large inventory and deals in the New York Century 21 stores. Visit Store OPENING HOURS Mon-Wed: 7:45am-9pm (9:30pm on Wed) Thu & Fri: 7.45am - 9.30pm Sat: 10.00am - 9.00pm Sun: 11.00am - 8.00pm TRANSPORT Subway: A/C, J/Z, 2/3, 4/5 to Fulton St, N/R to Cortlandt St CONTACT Tel: 877-350-2121 Find Out More MANHATTAN NIGHTCLUBS Renowned as the city that never sleeps, it should come as no surprise that New York boasts some of the best nightlife venues on the planet. Read about some of the finest clubs in New York in this section, which have that big city vibe as well as drinks, dancing and music. Le Bain Pacha Marqee Lavo NYC NIGHTCLUBS LE BAIN 848 Washington at 13th Street New York 10014 In the heart of the trending Meatpacking District is Le Bain, a nightclub at the top of the Standard Hotel. The club offers an amazing city view which you can appreciate through enormous glass windows. At night, the city lights up in a spectacular display that serves as the backdrop to the excitement in the club. With international-class DJs, a summer rooftop and refreshing drinks, Le Bain meets all expectations. What’s on the Menu OPENING HOURS Monday: 4.00pm - 12.00am Tue - Thurs 4.00pm - 4.00am Fri - Sat: 2.00pm - 4.00am Sunday: 2.00pm - 3.00am TRANSPORT Subway: Take the A, C, E at 14th St. CONTACT Tel: 212-645-7600 Find Out More NIGHTCLUBS PACHA Pacha New York 618 W.46th Street New York, NY 10036 Serious nightlife aficionados might recognise the name Pacha from travels to Ibiza. The New York Pacha is owned and operated by the same group, and it shares the hedonistic, party-until-dawn vibe that has made Ibiza famous. Pacha is an enormous venue that boasts more than 30,000 square feet and four distinct levels, each with their own special character and décor. LED walls and interactive screens add that incredible Ibiza spirit to the rooms. Events are held frequently at the club. Sign up in advance to get on the guest list, or pay extra for VIP entry and a set number of drinks throughout the night. Book Tickets Now OPENING HOURS Monday: 4.00pm - 12.00am Tue - Thurs 4.00pm - 4.00am Fri - Sat: 2.00pm - 4.00am Sunday: 2.00pm - 3.00am TRANSPORT Subway: Take the A, C, E at 42nd St.Port Authority Bus Terminal CONTACT Tel: (212) 209-7500 Find Out More NIGHTCLUBS MARQEE Marquee New York 289 10th Ave, New York, NY 10001 The New York nightclub Marquee is iconic and undergoes a Renaissance every few years to remain one of the Big Apple’s top nightlife spots. High ceilings and screens surround the main dance floors, and top acts from around the world are often found on the events calendar. Getting entry at New York Marquee is an efficient process. There are three queues: one for people who have bought tickets in advance, one for those without tickets hoping for general admission and one for those planning on reserving table service for the night. The dress code is ‘upscale and trendy’, so dress to impress and be ready to dance. Book Tickets Now OPENING HOURS Wed, Fri & Sat: 11.00pm - 4.00am TRANSPORT Subway: Take the C, E at 23rd St. CONTACT Tel: 646-473-0202 Find Out More NIGHTCLUBS Blogger Recommended LAVO NYC 39 E 58th St, New York, NY 10022 Get your best outfit on and be prepared for some photo ops (since you might run into a few celebrities) Lavo NYC in the midtown east neighborhood. The interior is classy and the space itself is beautiful, upscale and very chic, with several crystal chandeliers. The tables are large, (at least 6 to 10 people can fit) and all face the DJ booth, providing a great view of the music set. The VIP tables have cool hidden storage for ladies to put away their clutches. And the music itself is diverse: rap, house and even remixes of old hits —they play it all! Lavo NYC Blog OPENING HOURS Restaurant: Mon - Wed: 11.00am - 12.00am Thur - Sun: 11.30am - 1.00am Nightclub: Thur - Sat: 11.00pm - 4.00am TRANSPORT Subway: Take the N, Q, R , or 4, 5, 6 lines to Lexington Avenue / 59 Street Bus: Take the M1, M2, M3 or M4 CONTACT Tel: 212 584 2700 Find Out More MANHATTAN BARS Whether you like an ice cold beer or a singapore sling New York is buzzing with bars of all shapes and sizes. We’ve put together a selection of bars that will give you a true taste of NYC pub scene. Get ready for ambience and style in abundance. Dive Bar Hotel Chantelle Blind Tiger Loopy Doopy Upstairs NYC 230 Fifth BEST BARS DIVE BAR 1) 101 W 75th Street NYC 75th and Columbus 2) 732 Amsterdam Ave NYC 96th and Amsterdam 3) 2662 Broadway NYC 101st and Broadway The pulse of the Dive Bar beats with the classic vibe of a New York neighbourhood bar. The bar offers a constantly changing selection of beers so that you never have to drink the same type twice. People can pair their beer of choice with an appetizer or full meal from the bar’s food menu. Why not try some of the quirkily named sandwiches on the menu, such as the ‘Ultimate Seinfeld Sandwich’, at the 96th and Amsterdam location. Events are scheduled nightly for constant entertainment. Depending on which evening you visit, you might enjoy sports, trivia or live music. What’s on the Menu OPENING HOURS CONTACT 75th and Columbus: Mon - Thur: 12.00pm - 4.00am 1) Tel: 212-362-7518 96th and Amsterdam: Sun - Mon: 11.30am - 4.00am 3) Tel: 212- 865-2662 101st and Broadway: Sun-Mon: 12.00pm - 4.00am 2) Tel: (212) 749-4358 Find Out More BEST BARS Blogger Recommended HOTEL CHANTELLE 92 Ludlow St, New York, NY 10002 Head to Hotel Chantelle for a rooftop bar during the day and 3 bars during the evening on Friday’s and Saturday’s. Hotel Chantelle offers French flare with occasional live jazz music and brings together a mixture of lounge bar chic and high tempo dance space. Whether you like a laidback vibe or the latest modern pop music there is always something to please the crowd at this lively venue. Enjoy some fresh air on the roof terrace and a boozy brunch on Saturday mornings. Visit Now OPENING HOURS 7 Days a Week: Dinner: Tuesday-Saturday 5:00pm-11:00pm Brunch: Saturday - 10:00am – 5:00pm Sunday - 11:00am – 5:00pm Happy hour: Tues-Fri - 5:00pm - 8:00pm Late night: Thurs - 11:00pm - 4:00am Friday - 11:00pm - 4:00am Saturday - 11:00pm - 4:00am CONTACT Tel: (212) 254-9100 Find Out More BEST BARS BLIND TIGER 281 Bleecker St, New York, NY 10014 Not for the typical beer consumer, Blind Tiger is where you go when you love your beer and already know what suits your taste buds. This fantastic bar has achieved legendary status and everyone in New York loves Blind Tiger. It’s best to try their diverse selection of draft beers mid-day before everyone else gets out of work. Otherwise be prepared to see what a really packed bar in New York is like! And if you like cheese, you’ll love Blind Tiger. Every Wednesday at 6.00 pm they put out cheese for guests to enjoy free! Visit Now OPENING HOURS CONTACT 7 Days a Week: Mon-Sun: 11.30am - 4.00am Tel: 212-462-4682 TRANSPORT Find Out More Subway: Take the 1 or 2 to Christopher Street with Sheridan Square Bus: Take the M20 to Bleecker St with Barrow Street BEST BARS LOOPY DOOPY 102 North End Avenue, New York, NY 10282 Top Floor | Conrad New York On the 16th floor of the Conrad Hotel in New York, the Loopy Doopy Rooftop Bar offers delicious views of the Statue of Liberty and alcoholic ice pops. While you’re there you should try the Topsy Turvy, a lime and coconut cocktail which evokes a tropical paradise. You can also socialise with food platters as the Hudson River flows behind you. The olives, marinated mushrooms and freshly made hummus in the Mezze Platter work splendidly with wine. The Loopy Doopy’s Lychee Rose Sangria brings an innovative twist to the classic cocktail that can be enjoyed in beautiful tandem with the view. What’s on the Menu OPENING HOURS Mon-Thur: 4.00pm - 12.00am Fri-Sat: 12.00pm - 1.00am Sun: 12.00pm - 12.00am CONTACT Tel: (646) 769-4250 Find Out More BEST BARS UPSTAIRS NYC Penthouse Level 145 East 50th Street New York City Sitting 30 storeys above midtown Manhattan, the Upstairs NYC rooftop bar provides 3,000 square feet of space, allowing guests to party atop the Kimberly Hotel. This bar is sophisticated and fun, with retractable walls, 360 degree panoramic views and cocktails that appeal to even the most discerning of tastes. The neo-Gothic, Art Deco flair couples with unparalleled views of the famous Chrysler Building. You can enjoy cocktails and conversation while nibbling on the bar’s small plate offerings. Don your best attire and try The Chrysler, a signature drink that blends honey, Hennessy and champagne for a luxurious New York experience. Visit Now OPENING HOURS Monday: 5.00pm - 12.00am Tue-Wed: 5.00pm - 1.00am Thur-Fri: 5.00pm - 2.00am Saturday: Brunch: 12.00pm - 4.00pm Upstairs opens: 4.00pm - 2.00am Sunday: Brunch: 12.00pm - 4.00pm Upstairs opens: 4.00pm - 11.00pm TRANSPORT Subway: Lexington Av/53 St, 59 St, 5 Av/59 St CONTACT Tel: 212 702 1600 Find Out More BEST BARS Blogger Recommended 230 FIFTH 230 5th Ave, New York, NY 10001, United States Located on 27th Street cornering with 5th Avenue, the New York rooftop bar 230 FIFTH gifts you with views of the Manhattan skyline. With an indoor and outdoor space it’s perfect all year round for a visit. Try their famous mojitos during the summer — even the mint leaves they use are grown organically on site! During the chilly days of fall/winter, you can still access the roof. They have comfy, red robes available on loan! Sit in heated areas and enjoy their hot chocolate. You have the Empire State Building as your backdrop, so don’t forget to take a selfie! What’s on? OPENING HOURS Mon-Fri: 4.00pm - 4.00am Sat-Sun: 10.00am - 4.00am CONTACT Tel: +1 212-725-4300 Find Out More GUIDE BY BOROUGH BRONX Known as the birthplace of hip-hop, the Bronx New York is located on the northern end of Manhattan Island. The borough plays host to a vibrant mix of international cuisine, a world-famous zoo and one of the most storied teams in baseball: the New York Yankees, whose stadium is as famous as the players. Bars BRONX BARS Whether you like an ice cold beer or a singapore sling New York is buzzing with bars of all shapes and sizes. We’ve put together a selection of bars that will give you a true taste of NYC pub scene. Get ready for ambience and style in abundance. Gunhill Brewery BARS GUNHILL BREWERY 3227 Laconia Ave. Bronx, N.Y. 10469 Set within the Bronx, Gun Hill brought local brewing back to the borough. It is designated as a farm beer making company because it sources many ingredients locally. Named after the mound where colonists stored weapons and ammunition during the American Revolution, this microbrewery produces a range of ales, stouts and seasonal beers. The brewery’s public tasting room serves hand-crafted beers on tap and from the bottle. Hop on the 2, 5 or 6 trains to have a taste - perfect for the beer enthusiasts visiting NYC! What’s on the Menu OPENING HOURS 7 Days a Week: Mon - Wed: 2:30pm - 9:00pm Thurs: 1:00pm - 9:00pm Fri: 1:00pm - 11:00pm Sat: 12:00pm - 11:00pm Sun: 12:00pm - 9:00pm CONTACT Tel: (718) 881-0010 Find Out More GUIDE BY BOROUGH BROOKLYN Lending its name to the iconic bridge, Brooklyn boasts Prospect Park, Nets basketball and Islanders hockey. As the most populous borough, Brooklyn New York neighbourhoods like Brighton Beach, Coney Island and Williamsburg are bursting with character. Find architectural gems, a culturally diverse live music scene and trendy eateries. Attractions Restaurants Shopping Things to do Bars Nightclubs BROOKLYN ATTRACTIONS Explorers and experience junkies will simply love New York. With its stellar shows, terrific tours, iconic buildings and vibrant venues, plus a host of splendid restaurants, it’s the greatest city in the world to experience something new. Here are a few places where you can revel in the magic of New York. Brooklyn Bridge Please Touch the Art Street Art Walk ATTRACTIONS WALK THE BROOKLYN BRIDGE Brooklyn and the Bronx contain their own roster of exciting attractions. Brooklyn lends its name to the famous bridge that spans the East River. Visitors can enjoy scenic views of the Manhattan skyline and the Statue of Liberty in the distance as they walk the Brooklyn Bridge in New York. It’s recommended to start the crossing from a small park near the city’s Municipal Building. The midway point is an ideal venue for taking pictures, or watching boats and helicopters. When exiting the historic bridge, look out for the sign indicating DUMBO, or Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass. Brooklyn Bridge Blog LOCATION Pedestrian/ bicycle access from either Tillary/Adams Streets or a staircase on Prospect Street Manhattan: pedestrian walkway accessible end of Centre Street, or through the unpaid south staircase of Brooklyn Bridge WHEN Best at nighttime for full views of the NY skyline lights Find Out More ATTRACTIONS PLEASE TOUCH THE ART BY JEPPE HEIN Pier 1 at Brooklyn Bridge Park Jeppe Hein’s three-piece installation in Brooklyn Bridge Park is a unique experience. Walk through the “walls of water” Appearing Rooms, a series of choreographed jet sprays before entering the Mirror Labyrinth, a stainless steel display that echoes the Manhattan skyline across the river. Finally make your way through a series of sixteen Social Benches that encourage interaction with fellow New Yorkers. All this fabulous public art is in an ideal spot totake in the atmospheric Manhattan skyline, directly over the East River. Download Scavenge Hunt Guide Find Out More ATTRACTIONS Blogger Recommended STREET ART WALK Location is given after booking. The beautiful thing about street art in NYC is that it’s constantly evolving and changing. What may appear today can easily be gone by tomorrow, so it’s all about taking advantage of the moment with frequent neighborhood strolls to catch the latest murals and installations. There are no better people to show you the latest and greatest than the tour guides of Street Art Walk, who will guide you through Bushwick and Williamsburg, Brooklyn neighborhoods famous for their wall murals and graffiti. Book a Tour OPENING HOURS Saturday & Sunday : 11:30am and 2:30pm TICKETS Single - $25 Find Out More BROOKLYN RESTAURANTS In New York you can find anything from small unique eateries in Chelsea Market to upscale celebrity chef-owned restaurants all just within blocks of each other. Daniel, Luka and Budakkan are just some of the best places to eat in the city, providing the magical cuisine and dining experiences that New York restaurants offer. The River Cafe Ample Hills Creamery RESTAURANTS THE RIVER CAFE Water Street between the Brooklyn Bridgeand West Cadman Plaz Nestled underneath the network of ramps on the Brooklyn side of the East River,The River Café New York features a menu of gastronomic delights. Its setting along the Brooklyn docks offers patrons marvellous views of the Manhattan skyline as they dine on culinary creations from renowned chefs. The award-winning River Café is located on Water Street between the Brooklyn Bridge and West Cadman Plaza. Patrons can enjoy lunch and leisurely Sunday brunch in the outdoor seating area. Known as the birthplace of the term ‘free-range chicken,’ the restaurant is a favourite destination for environmental enthusiasts from around the world. What’s on the Menu OPENING HOURS Open Daily: Reservations essential DRESS CODE After 5:00 p.m. each day, jackets are required for gentlemen in the Main Dining Room and the Bar. Appropriate clothing and footwear are required in all areas at all times. CONTACT Tel : +1 212-989-6699 Find Out More RESTAURANTS Blogger Recommended AMPLE HILLS CREAMERY 305 Nevins street, Brooklyn, NY 11215 This is not your typical ice cream shop. I visited this shop a few weeks ago and couldn’t get enough of it! The shop has a nice play area for kids, a rooftop lounging area where you can hang with friends late at night, eating ice cream and gazing at the stars. The ice cream flavors are all unique and made right on the premises. They have a glass window where you can see how the process works for yourself. Treat yourself! What’s on the Menu OPENING HOURS Open Daily: 12:00pm - 12:00am CONTACT SEND EMAIL Find Out More BROOKLYN SHOPPING New York presents a mighty variety of shopping options. Choosing select destinations helps you get more out of your New York City shopping adventure. Whether you’re looking for upscale denim, classic brands or avant-garde fashion, some of the best choices include Brooklyn Industries, the International Playground and 3 X 1. Brooklyn Industries L-Train Vintage Brooklyn Flea Market SHOPPING BROOKLYN INDUSTRIES 290 Lafayette St, New York, NY 10012, USA Brooklyn Industries is a terrific place to shop. The company was founded in the mid1990s by two artists who wanted to be able to live, work and create with freedom. They started their company by making bags out of recycled material from billboards. Today, the retail locations are dotted throughout Brooklyn, Manhattan and Chelsea. The stores offer cutting-edge designs, many using superb, high-level art and recycled materials, and fashions are available for both men and women. A variety of bags, jewellery and other accessories is also offered. The company is very environmentally conscious and powers its stores using wind energy. Brooklyn Industries Blog OPENING HOURS Open all week : Sun - Thur: 11.00 am - 8.00 pm Fri - Sat: 11.00 am - 9.00 pm TRANSPORT Subway: B, D, F, V to BroadwayLafayette St CONTACT Tel : +1 212 219 0862 Find Out More SHOPPING Blogger Recommended L-TRAIN VINTAGE 1377 Dekalb Ave, Brooklyn, NY L-Train Vintage—named for the Brooklyn to Manhattan subway line—started out as a humble vintage shop in Williamsburg and has since taken root as the best chain of affordable vintage stores in New York. They promise to keep you not just ‘on trend’, but beyond the trend. They currently have six locations throughout Brooklyn and Lower Manhattan. Find a shop OPENING HOURS Open Daily: 12.00pm - 8.00pm Find Out More SHOPPING BROOKLYN FLEA MARKET 1) 176 Lafayette Ave (Fort Greene) Brooklyn, NY 2) 50 Kent Ave (Williamsburg) Brooklyn, NY The New York Brooklyn Flea Market, sometimes referred to as the ‘Brooklyn Flea’, operates in two locations each weekend and has hundreds of vendors on site from the area and beyond. This outdoor flea market was founded in April 2008 and has grown into one of New York City’s top attractions. It features furniture, jewellery, vintage clothing, antiques and collectibles and arts and crafts. From April to November, the flea market opens on Saturday in Fort Greene and Sunday in Williamsburg. You’re sure to leave the market with some unique apparel for creating a new outfit or starting a trend! Flea Vendors OPENING HOURS Fort Greene : Saturday 10.00 am to 5.00 pm Williamsburg : Sunday 10.00 am to 5.00 pm TRANSPORT Subway: L to Bedford Ave (Fort Greene) C to Lafayette Ave (Williamsburg) CONTACT SEND EMAIL Find Out More BROOKLYN Things to See / Do When people plan to visit New York City, they may be overwhelmed by the plethora of things to see and do (New York likes to spoil people that way!). Among the top choices are a visit to Strawberry Fields, to Greenwich Village and taking a Birthplace of Hip Hop tour. Brooklyn Bowl Prospect Park Yoga Class at Y7 Dine at Café Moto THINGS TO SEE/DO Blogger Recommended BROOKLYN BOWL 61 Wythe Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11249, United States Don’t be fooled: Brooklyn Bowl is actually a working bowling alley. But more than strikes and pins, Brooklyn Bowl is known as one of the most cutting-edge music venues in New York City. Featuring excellent food, a full bar and a stage that overlooks the bowling alley, Brooklyn Bowl features up-and-coming artists in rap and rock as well as ongoing events like its popular Bluegrass Brunch. Stop by neighbouring Brooklyn Brewery for a local brew or head up to the rooftop at Wythe Hotel across the street for a cocktail before the show. Check their website for upcoming shows. Book Tickets Now OPENING HOURS Mon-Fri: 6.00pm - Close Sat-Sun: 11.00am - Close (times may vary spring and summer) TRANSPORT Subway: Nearest subway service is the G line to Manhattan Avenue between Norman Avenue and Nassau Avenue Bus: Take the B32 to N 9th Street with Wythe Avenue CONTACT Tel: 718-963-3369 Find Out More THINGS TO SEE/DO Blogger Recommended PROSPECT PARK BANDSHELL 62 West Dr, Brooklyn, NY 11215 Once Memorial Day rolls around, Brooklyn residents know to check the line-up for the Celebrate Brooklyn: located in the heart of Prospect Park, the outdoor concert series is a summer highlight. Although bigger acts tend to be ticketed, there are plenty of free acts that just require showing up early to stake out a spot. You can pack food to picnic on, and alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks are sold at bars scattered around the venue. Bring a blanket or chairs, and plenty of friends for one of the best outdoor parties that happens almost every summer weekend. What’s On? OPENING HOURS Mon-Sun 5.00 am - 1.00 am TRANSPORT Subway: Take the F or G line to 15th Street with Prospect Park West Bus: Take the B61 to Bartel Pritchard Square with Prospect Park Southwest CONTACT SEND EMAIL Find Out More THINGS TO SEE/DO Blogger Recommended YOGA CLASS AT Y7 240 Kent Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11249 New York City has no shortage of yoga studios and they all use sound in different ways, from the power of silence, the sacred chant, or an intertwining of popular and Indian music. But there are no yoga studios that use music quite like Y7: with locations in SoHo, Flatiron and Williamsburg, Y7 is emphatic that hip-hop and yoga can complement each other. Although hip-hop music can make it into almost any class, Hip-Hop Wednesdays and Sundays turn the volume way up on heavy beats and rap freestyles — in a way that (sometimes surprisingly) pushes your yoga practice even further. Book a Class TRANSPORT Subway: The nearest subway station is N 7th Street with Bedford Avenue. Take the L line. Bus: Take the B32 or Q59 to S 1st Street and Kent Avenue CONTACT Tel: +1 646-820-0781 Find Out More THINGS TO SEE/DO Blogger Recommended DINE AT CAFÉ MOTO 394 Broadway, Brooklyn, NY 11211 From the outside, this restaurant is fairly unassuming and is located directly under the elevated JMZ subway line. Once you open the heavy metal door flaking with peeling paint, you’re magically transported to an oldworld café and bar. The fantastic horseshoe bar serves up class cocktails and rustic American fare, but what really makes it all flow is the live music show every night. Take a seat at a candle-lit table and enjoy the acoustic folk music as you enjoy your food, drinks and company. What’s on the Menu OPENING HOURS Twilight drink: 5.30pm - 7.30pm Dinner: 6.00pm - 12.00am nightly Brunch: 11.00 am - 4.00 pm Sat and Sun CONTACT Tel: +1 718-599-6895 TRANSPORT Subway: Take the G line to Broadway with Union Avenue, or J or M to Hewes St with Hooper Street Bus: Take the B60 to S 5th Street with Hooper Street Find Out More BROOKLYN BARS After a long day’s travelling there’s nothing like stopping for an ice cold beer - luckily NYC is brimming with trendy beer bars. From social hotspots like Blind Tiger where the New York workforce chill out after a shift to innovative microbreweries like Gunhill Brewery, New York has got you covered if you love a good beer. The Levee Skinny Dennis Battery Harris Glorietta Baldy Radegast & Biergarten The Ides BARS Blogger Recommended THE LEVEE 212 Berry St, Brooklyn, NY 11211 By far one of the best and most relaxed bars in New York offering decent priced drinks, where you can stop in with your friends or can easily make new friends. The Levee also has a wide selection of board games to play plus a pool table and darts to compliment their light snacks - that’s right free cheese puffs for all! During the warmer days of the year The Levee opens a garden out the back with tables that can be a great escape from the music inside. You’ll find The Levee attracts a young and vibrant crowd who are always ready for a good time. Information OPENING HOURS Monday - Sunday: 12:00 pm - 4:00 am CONTACT Tel: 718 218 8787 Find Out More BARS SKINNY DENNIS Skinny Dennis,152 Metroplitan Ave Brooklyn, NY 11211 A honky-tonk bar in the centre of Brooklyn is totally unexpected, which is what makes Skinny Dennis so great. A jukebox plays a mix of classic country favourites and Southern rock songs, and a painted portrait of Willie Nelson hangs behind the bar. Some of the seats have been pulled right from pickup trucks, and there are a few vintage video games throughout the space. Aside from the unusual decor, New York’s Skinny Dennis has earned a reputation for serving cheap cans of domestic beer as well as a variety of craft beers on tap. Patrons can snack on hot peanuts while sipping beer in a relaxed and undeniably cool atmosphere. What’s on the Menu OPENING HOURS 7 Days a Week: 5:00pm - 2:00am (or later) TRANSPORT Subway: L at Bedford Ave. Find Out More BARS BATTERY HARRIS 64 Frost Street at Meeker / Lorimer Williamsburg, Brooklyn 11211, New York, NY 10020 When the weather is nice, Battery Harris in Brooklyn is the ultimate spot to enjoy a meal outside on the patio and sip on a pitcher of draft beer. Even if the New York weather is a little chilly, the Caribbean theme of the New York Battery Harris will make visitors forget all about what’s going on outside. There are few better places in Brooklyn for a boozy lunch than Battery Harris, which offers an extensive brunch menu. Visitors can pair local craft beers and bottled Caribbean ales with special dishes like candied plantains or an oxtail hash with fried eggs. What’s on the Menu OPENING HOURS 7 Days a Week: Mon - Wed: 2:30pm - 12:00am Thurs: 1:00pm - 2:00am Fri: 12:00pm - 4:00am Sat: 11:00pm - 4:00am Sun: 11:00am - 12:00am TRANSPORT Subway: L at Bedford Ave. Find Out More BARS GLORIETTA BALDY 502 Franklin Ave., Brooklyn, NY 11238 nr. Fulton St Glorietta Baldy is always jumping on the weekends and is lovingly referred to by its patrons as “That Bar Under the Stairs.” The craft brews on the menu change daily and visitors can look online to find out what the offerings are before heading in. Pretty much any beer lover will be able to find something to enjoy on the extensive list. The space is completely relaxed, so there’s no need to dress up while at the New York Glorietta Baldy. In between rounds of great beer have a shot on the pinball machines or enjoy live music most nights of the week. Book Venue OPENING HOURS 7 Days a Week: Mon - Fri: 4:00pm - 4:00am Sat - Sun: 2:00pm - 4:00pm TRANSPORT Subway: C, S at Franklin Ave.; A, C at Nostrand Ave. Find Out More BARS Blogger Recommended RADEGAST HALL AND BIERGARTEN 113 N 3rd St, Brooklyn, NY 11249 This authentic large beer garden in Williamsburg has a German vibe that gives you the pleasant impression that you have stepped back in time and left the country. The bar serves up large litres of beer on tap with plenty of long tables that attract fun people who are all looking to appreciate fine beer with friends. Naturally, this is one of the coolest places to go if you wish to celebrate Oktoberfest here! And if you enjoy music, you’ll be pleased to hear that there are live performances at the garden every day. Location OPENING HOURS Mon-Thur: 12.00pm - 2.00am Fri: 12.00pm - 3.00am Sat: 11.00am - 3.00am Sun: 11.00am - 2.00am TRANSPORT Subway: Take the L train to Bedway Street with N 7th Street Bus: Take the B62 to N 3rd Street with Bedford Avenue CONTACT Tel: 718-963-3973 Find Out More BARS THE IDES Wythe Ave & N 11th St, Brooklyn, NY 11249 Sitting 30 storeys above midtown Manhattan, the Upstairs NYC rooftop bar provides 3,000 square feet of space, allowing guests to party atop the Kimberly Hotel. This bar is sophisticated and fun, with retractable walls, 360 degree panoramic views and cocktails that appeal to even the most discerning of tastes. The neo-Gothic, Art Deco flair couples with unparalleled views of the famous Chrysler Building. You can enjoy cocktails and conversation while nibbling on the bar’s small plate offerings. Don your best attire and try The Chrysler, a signature drink that blends honey, Hennessy and champagne for a luxurious New York experience. Book a Table OPENING HOURS Mon-Fri: Opens 4.00pm Sar-Sun: Opens 2.00pm Find Out More Transport BEST ROOFTOP BARS TRANSPORT 10 minutes from Manhattan by taxi THE IDES 6 minutes walk to East River Ferry Wythe Ave & N 11th St, Brooklyn, NYstop 11249 7 minutes walk to Bedford L subway 9 minutes walk to Nassau G subway stop 15 minutes walk from Marcy JMZ subway stop Sitting 30 storeys above midtown Manhattan, 15 minutesthe fromUpstairs LaGuardia NYC Airport rooftop by taxi bar provides 3,000 square feet of space, 25 minutes from JFK Airport by taxi allowing guests to party atop the Kimberly Hotel. This bar is sophisticated and fun, with Close retractable walls, 360 degree panoramic views and cocktails that appeal to even the most discerning of tastes. The neo-Gothic, Art Deco flair couples with unparalleled views of the famous Chrysler Building. You can enjoy cocktails and conversation while nibbling on the bar’s small plate offerings. Don your best attire and try The Chrysler, a signature drink that blends honey, Hennessy and champagne for a luxurious New York experience. Book a Table OPENING HOURS Mon-Fri: Opens 4.00pm Sar-Sun: Opens 2.00pm Find Out More Transport BROOKLYN NIGHTCLUBS Renowned as the city that never sleeps, it should come as no surprise that New York boasts some of the best nightlife venues on the planet. Read about some of the finest clubs in New York in this section, which have that big city vibe as well as drinks, dancing and music. Output NIGHTCLUBS Blogger Recommended OUTPUT 74 Wythe Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11249, United States New York Output is a major nightclub in Williamsburg, Brooklyn. The club has an open dance floor and a second floor that wraps around it, so you can watch the masses moving to the music. There’s more of an underground, grungy raw vibe with world-renowned artists playing on any given night. In addition to the awesome main room, there’s the Panther Room and the rooftop. The music depends on the DJ, so plan ahead by checking their website. If you enjoy electronic dance music, Output is for you. It’s a treat to hear drum and bass there — Output has one of the only systems in NYC that can handle the sound! Location OPENING HOURS 7 Days a Week: 10.00 pm to 3.00 am May very depending on the event TRANSPORT Subway: Nearest subway station is several streets away. Take the G line to Nassau Avenue. Bus: Take the B32 to Kent Avenue / N 12th Street CONTACT SEND EMAIL Find Out More GUIDE BY BOROUGH QUEENS Hosting the Mets and the U.S. Open, Queens New York is one of the most individual spots in the country. Adventurous visitors will find top-rated museums like the Louis Armstrong House Museum, as well as an avant-garde art, food and music scene. Glimpse heritage architecture and explore urban green spaces here. Attraction Restaurants Bars QUEENS ATTRACTIONS Explorers and experience junkies will simply love New York. With its stellar shows, terrific tours, iconic buildings and vibrant venues, plus a host of splendid restaurants, it’s the greatest city in the world to experience something new. Here are a few places where you can revel in the magic of New York. Louis Armstrong House ATTRACTIONS Blogger Recommended THE LOUIS ARMSTRONG HOUSE MUSEUM 34-56 107th Street Corona, New York 11368 Jazz fans, perk those ears up! Located in Corona, Queens, you can visit the actual house where the legendary jazz musician Louis Armstrong and his wife Lucille lived for most of their adult life. Kept exactly as it was when he was alive, this truly is a tribute house that honours his life, legacy and, of course, his great music, and you’ll hear plenty of his fine tunes during the visit. Visiting the museum also gives you the opportunity to explore the vast borough of Queens. Guided tours are offered every hour, on the hour. Book Tickets Now OPENING HOURS Opening Times : Tue-Fri: 10.00am - 5.00pm Sat & Sun: 12.00pm - 5.00pm TRANSPORT Subway: Take the 7 to 111th Street with Roosevelt Avenue Bus: Take the Q23 to 104th Street with 37th Avenue CONTACT Tel : 718-478-8274 Find Out More QUEENS RESTAURANTS In New York you can find anything from small unique eateries in Chelsea Market to upscale celebrity chef-owned restaurants all just within blocks of each other. Daniel, Luka and Budakkan are just some of the best places to eat in the city, providing the magical cuisine and dining experiences that New York restaurants offer. Los Amigos S Prime RESTAURANTS Blogger Recommended LOS AMIGOS Located on 2273 31st, Long Island City, NY 11105 This is a low-key Mexican gem. In my humble opinion, Los Amigos serve the best chicken enchiladas in NY state! I like it in salsa verde which means green sauce. You can choose red sauce if you want it extra spicy. They also serve a delicious michelada which is beer (your favorite) poured into a glass filled with hot sauce! My dream in a mug. They also serve delicious beef nachos which come with chunky avocado pieces. Viva mexico! Book a Table OPENING HOURS Open Daily: 11:00am - 4:00am CONTACT Tel : 718-726-8708 Find Out More RESTAURANTS S PRIME 35-11 36th Street Long Island City, NY 11106, Queens Just outside of Manhattan, in Queens, is New York S Prime, an upscale steakhouse perfect for a special meal for travellers. Diners come to S Prime both for the incredible food and for the exclusive atmosphere, which brings an extra something to birthday dinners or anniversary celebrations. Executive Chef Joel Reiss whips up exceptional steaks, of course, but also fresh salads, indulgent seafood and house-made cheeses. Add a bottle of wine from the extensive collection onsite, or take an adventurous pick from the long list of speciality cocktails on offer. Refreshing flavours include the Cucumber Spice and the the Razzle. Book a Table OPENING HOURS Tuesday-Sat : 5.00pm Mon & Sun : private events only CONTACT Tel : 718-707-0660 DRESS CODE Smart - casual Find Out More QUEENS BARS After a long day’s travelling there’s nothing like stopping for an ice cold beer - luckily NYC is brimming with trendy beer bars. From social hotspots like Blind Tiger where the New York workforce chill out after a shift to innovative microbreweries like Gunhill Brewery, New York has got you covered if you love a good beer. Dutch Kills Vista Sky Lounge Ravel Hotel Rooftop Cavo BARS DUTCH KILLS 27-24 Jackson Ave, in Long Island City Queens The New York Dutch Kills bar is a cocktail destination heaven. The bar sits modestly behind a nondescript facade. Once inside, you’ll find yourself in a darkened bar with a speakeasy feel. A mixology expert and master bartenders work together to deliver both classic cocktails as well as craft ones. They’re known for having a good variety of delectable whiskey drinks. The bar’s entire atmosphere, including the musical selections (there’s even a rag time band!), is laidback, hailing back to a time when people knew how to just sit back, relax and sip their drinks over good food and conversation. What’s on the Menu OPENING HOURS 7 Days a Week: 5pm ‘til 2am (OR LATER) TRANSPORT Subway: E - M - R at Queens Plaza E - M - G at Court Square N - Q - 7 at Queensboro Plaza Find Out More BARS VISTA SKY LOUNGE Four Points by Sheraton Long Island City 27-05 39th Avenue Long Island City, NY 11101 On the outskirts of Queens and easily accessible from Manhattan is the Vista Sky Lounge. Travellers often stand in awe at the views offered at the top of the Four Points by Sheraton Hotel, where the Vista Sky Lounge can be found. Enjoy an upmarket dining menu featuring delicious appetisers and sharing platters. The drinks are just as impressive, and top beverage picks include the lychee Martini and the chilled rose wines. All are served up as you gaze out towards Queensboro Bridge and glittering Manhattan landmarks like the Empire State Building. Vista is the perfect venue for a special birthday or event. What’s on the Menu OPENING HOURS Sun -Thu: 5.00pm - 1.00am Fri -Sat: 5.00pm - 3.00am CONTACT Tel: 347-536-3640 Find Out More BARS Blogger Recommended RAVEL HOTEL ROOFTOP BAR 8-08 Queens Plaza South, Long Island City, NY 11101 Take a break from the Manhattan scene, and head over to Long Island City (Queens) for an amazing rooftop bar located in the Ravel Hotel. Just a few stops from Manhattan, you can’t beat its proximity. You can take a photo there almost as if you were under the Queensboro Bridge. Ravel showcases some of the hottest DJs, spinning everything from house music to Top 40, as well as other types of music. Once you feel the rhythm, you won’t be able to stop moving your body! Ravel also has tasty drinks, delicious food, and provides a great ambience. What’s on? OPENING HOURS Hotel is open 24 hours a day CONTACT Tel: 212 645 7600 Find Out More BARS Blogger Recommended CAVO 42-18 31st Ave, Astoria, NY 11103 At night, Cavo transforms from a stylish restaurant into a nightclub that hosts some of the hottest parties and DJs. Imagine a big main room that fits hundreds of people with lights, amazing sound, go-go dancers, electronic violinist and other amazing performers. There are two rooms. One is like a bar scene which still draws a crowd, but with a more chilled and relaxed scene. The second room is the club area with high ceilings, a DJ booth in the sky, VIP tables, large dance floor and a huge bar. Cavo is known for its themed nights, Mediterranean, Euro-Latin and much more. Location OPENING HOURS Tue-Thur: 5.00pm - 2.00am Fri-Sat: 5.00pm - 4.00am Sunday : 5.00pm - 12.00am CONTACT Tel: 718-721-1001 Find Out More GUIDE BY BOROUGH STATEN ISLAND Just a free ferry ride away across New York Harbor, Staten Island New York features a suburban atmosphere. The island, adjacent to the Kill Van Kull tidal strait from New Jersey, is known for its familyfriendly attractions like the Children’s Museum, views towards Manhattan and its maritime heritage, displayed in the National Lighthouse Museum. General Attractions Restaurants STATEN ISLAND GENERAL ATTRACTIONS Explorers and experience junkies will simply love New York. With its stellar shows, terrific tours, iconic buildings and vibrant venues, plus a host of splendid restaurants, it’s the greatest city in the world to experience something new. Here are a few places where you can revel in the magic of New York. 9/11 Memorial Staten Island Boardwalk GENERAL ATTRACTIONS STATEN ISLAND SEPTEMBER 11 MEMORIAL The larger and busier memorials of the events of September 11 are found in Manhattan, but Staten Island’s own response to this tragic event is equally poignant. Located on the North Shore Waterfront Esplanade, the New York Staten Island September 11 Memorial is a pair of contemporary wings facing upward, as if ready to take flight. Designed by the architect Masayuki Sono, the memorial’s interior walls are lined with plaques honouring the lives of those lost in the tragedy. Book Tickets Now Find Out More GENERAL ATTRACTIONS STATEN ISLAND BOARDWALK Fort Wadsworth, Staten Island, NY to Miller Field, Staten Island, NY The New York Staten Island Boardwalk, or South Beach-Franklin Delano Roosevelt Boardwalk, is a stand-out attraction on Staten Island. This boardwalk was built in 1935 and stretches between Fort Wadsworth and Miller Field, which is a military installation on the National Register of Historic Places. Stroll along the boardwalk for views of the sandy shoreline, the blue waters of the Atlantic, sports facilities and long piers –ideal for fishermen. Stop to admire the Fountain of the Dolphins, an incredible boardwalk feature with six bronze figures and evening illuminations. Location LENGTH 2.5 - 4.5 miles depending on where you start WHEN Open all year round but best walked in good weather months Find Out More STATEN ISLAND RESTAURANTS In New York you can find anything from small unique eateries in Chelsea Market to upscale celebrity chef-owned restaurants all just within blocks of each other. Daniel, Luka and Budakkan are just some of the best places to eat in the city, providing the magical cuisine and dining experiences that New York restaurants offer. Blue RESTAURANTS BLUE 1115 Richmond Terrace Staten Island, 10310 For a classic Mediterranean meal and waterfront views, New York Blue is a Staten Island favourite. While admiring the sunset over the Newark and Upper Bays, you’ll feel as though you’ve been transported to the Mediterranean with a menu featuring dishes as diverse as lamb meatballs in a pea ragu and fried Halloumi cheese on a bed of rocket and olives. To perfect an already amazing menu, the bartenders at Blue can create custom cocktails based on your preferences. Book a Table OPENING HOURS Monday to Thursday: 12:00 Noon – 11:00pm Friday and Saturday: 12:00 Noon – 12:00am Sunday: 12:00 Noon – 10:00pm CONTACT Tel : 718-273-7777 Find Out More