Where Magazine New York Jan 2020

T R AV E L E R S K N O W W H E R E ™

NEW YORK JAN 2020

EXPLORE

CALENDAR

NYC’s Neighborhoods in a nutshell

Ten great things to do this month

SIMPLY THE BEST Adrienne Warren Channels Tina Turner on Broadway

CONTENTS

8 2020

ESSENTIALS

Ask the Expert 4

Editor’s Note 5 Calendar 6

Editors Tips 11

Maps 38

Parting Shot 40 THE GUIDE

Arts 15 Shopping 22 Attractions 25 Explore 26 Dining 27

ON THE

One Block: Midtown East

COVER Dusk in Manhattan ©MALTE SCHMIDT/UNSPLASH

wheretraveler.com

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Midtown East is the NYC the world knows. Iconic skyscrapers—the Chrysler Building and the Seagram Building—dominate the skyline and on the ground are international and quintessential culinary options.

FROM TOP: ADRIENNE WARREN IN TINA - THE TINA TURNER MUSICAL, PHOTO BY MANUEL HARLAN, 2019; COURTESY THE UNITED NATIONS

Adrienne Warren Channels Tina Turner on Broadway

JAN

N OT J U S T B ROA DWAY

ON BROADWAY THERE IS SIMPLY NOTHING ELSE LIKE IT. THE NEW YORK TIMES

Minskoff Theatre, Broadway & 45th Street

GENUINELY ELECTRIC! NEW YORK MAGAZINE

St. James Theatre, 44th Street & 8th Avenue

BROADWAY MAGIC! THE WALL STREET JOURNAL

THE HIT BROADWAY MUSICAL

TICKETS AVAILABLE AT THE BOX OFFICE OR

ONBROADWAY.COM

©Disney

New Amsterdam Theatre, Broadway & 42nd Street

Your New York

INSIDER A lot of people are intimidated by taking the subway, but it’s honestly the best way to go

SPENCER HOWARD CONCIERGE, 1 HOTEL CENTRAL PARK

NEW YORK

Y O U R T R AV E L I N G C O M PA N I O N S I N C E 19 3 6 ®

FLOWER PUBLICATIONS

EDITORIAL & DESIGN SR. ART DIRECTOR Carrie Donahue

EDITOR/ART DIRECTOR Farah Lopez

ART DIRECTORS Hideki Kato, Hiroko Egashira

PHOTOGRAPHER Alan Battman, William Delisi WEBMASTER Sana Mola

IT MANAGER Todd Gorgon

is ever-changing and ever-evolving. It forces you evolve with it; to try new things and go new places. It’s alive and it gives me life.

Q: ANY SUGGESTIONS FOR THE BEST UNDER-THE-RADAR THINGS TO DO? A: One of my favorite

things to recommend for people who have “done it all” is Scott’s Pizza Tour.

You never knew how much you didn’t know about pizza until you take this tour. You also get express access to many pizzerias that normally have hour-long waits, due to Scott’s close relationship to all of the pizzerias around town.

EXPERT TIP

The best place to take kids of all ages is the American Museum of Natural History. I grew up going there and the T. Rex exihibit is sure to amaze.

Q: WHAT STOPS SHOULD BE ON EVERY VISITOR’S “BUCKET LIST” WHEN COMING HERE? A: The waterways are

wonderfully unique to the city. They offers incredible perspectives of the skyline and I can’t imagine a trip to NYC without taking one of the hundreds of boat companies that offer a relaxing, front-row view.

EXECUTIVE PRINCIPLE PARTNER/PUBLISHER Peter Flower

GENERAL MANAGER OF DIGITAL MEDIA Bruce Amick

HOSPITALITY RELATIONS & DISTRIBUTION HOSPITALITY RELATIONS Jennifer Lee

ADVERTISING SENIOR VP OF ADVERTISING SALES Courtney Fuhrmann DIGITAL MEDIA MANAGER Alex DaCosta ADVERTISING MANAGERS

Q: WHAT IS ONE OF YOUR FAVORITE RESTAURANTS FOR A SPECIAL MEAL? A: Masseria Dei Vini is my

“Home Run” restaurant. It’s fancy enough for a special meal but casual enough for families. Authentic and not stuffy, they hand make their pastas every day and are one of the only nicer Italian restaurants with a wood-burning pizza oven.

Q: FOR A GUEST LOOKING FOR A NIGHT ON THE TOWN, WHAT WOULD YOU RECOMMEND? A: Party hopping all over

the city will mean you’ll spend half your night in a cab or subway car. If you pick a bar-dense neighborhood like Hell’s Kitchen or the East Village, you can just walk from bar to bar with no problem!

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George Justo, Brad Rosenberg, Chris Dunham ADMIN ASSISTANTS Kimberly Jacks, Sadia Nikiema For advertising inquiries please email us at adsales@govisit.media or call 212.684.6099

55 W. 39th St., Ste. 302, New York, New York 10018

WhereTraveler® magazine is licensed and produced by Go Visit Media LLC - 55 W. 39th St., New York, NY 10018, www.wheretraveler.com.

WhereTraveler magazine and the logo are registered trademarks of Morris Visitor Publications. WhereTraveler makes every effort to ensure the accuracy of the information it publishes, but cannot be held responsible for any consequences arising from errors or omissions. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part is strictly prohibited.

AMERICAN MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY; COURTESY AMERICAN MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY

Q: WHAT DO YOU LOVE MOST ABOUT THE CITY? A: I love that the city

THE

EDITOR’S NOTE 2020

PHOTO CREDIT: ©JACK COHEN/UNSPLASH

JANUARY

F

or many of us, each new year marks a chance for renewal, and 2020 is no exception. Please keep your eyes on WhereTraveler in the coming year for continued signs of our resilience and renewal. We believe travel is a gift we give ourselves and love to share our passion for New York with you, our readers. We hope you will, once again, enjoy learning about our beautiful sites as much as we enjoy writing about them. Happy New Year from us all at WhereTraveler magazine.

FARAH LOPEZ Editor, WhereTraveler® New York @wherenewyork

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W H E R E T R AV E L E R . C O M

CALENDAR

2020

JANUARY

10

WINTER JAZZ FEST

Since its founding in 2005, JazzFest in NYC has established itself as a chance of cultural discovery presenting new and exciting sounds. The festival celebrates music as a living entity in multiple venues in Manhattan! www.winterjazzfest. squarespace.com

GREAT THREE KINGS DAY PARADE THINGS JAN. 6 THIS MONTH

East Harlem celebrates Epiphany with a colorful parade organized by El Museo del Barrio. Disguised children join real camels, colorful and gigantic puppets, musicians and dancers from 106th Street and Lexington Avenue to 115th Street and Park Avenue.

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W H E R E T R AV E L E R ® N E W YO R K J A N U A RY 2 0 2 0

HARRY CONNICK JR., ©MATTHEW MURPHY; TONY BENNETT, “GOD IS LOVE: DUKE ELLINGTON, ” 1993, ©TONY BENNETT/BENEDETTO 1996; STEVE REICH, JEFFREY HERMAN

WINTER JAZZ FEST JAN. 9-18

THE

ALVIN AILEY AMERICAN DANCE THEATER’S KHALIA CAMPBELL, ©ANDREW ECCLES; MICHAEL FEINSTEIN, COURTESY FEINSTEIN’S/54 BELOW

BROADWAYCON

Free Days at Wave Hill Jan. 7-28 Enjoy free visit to Wave Hill cultural center with its vibrant public garden overlooking the Hudson River in the Bronx. www.wavehill.org

BroadwayCon Jan. 24-26 During this three-day expo, the performers celebrate their passions and fans can meet and greet their favorite Broadway stars at NY Hilton Midtown. www.broadwaycon.com

Prototype Festival Jan. 9-19 This pioneering festival is one of a kind in New York City and it offers visionary opera-theater and music-theater works. www.prototypefestival.org

New York Times Travel Show Jan. 24-26 The largest travel trade show in North America returns to the Javits Center attracting thousands of exhibitors from more than 175 countries. www.nyttravelshow.com

Outsider Art Fair Jan. 16-19 This original art fair showcases pieces born from the raw creativity from all cultures and age groups at Metropolitan Pavillon. www.outsiderartfair.com

city unveil special prix-fixe menus for a lunch and/or dinner. www.nycgo.com/restaurant-week Podcast Festival Jan. 22-26 Brooklyn Podcast Festival brings engaging and informative podcasts of all genres to exceptional spaces like The Bell House. www.cityfarmpresents. com/bkpodfest

Boat Show Jan. 22-26 With its 110-year history the show is recognized as THE place to see the latest boats and marine gear at the Javits Center. www.nyboatshow.com

NEW YORK TIMES TRAVEL SHOW

NYC Restaurant Week Jan. 21- Feb. 9 NYC Restaurant Week celebrate cuisines from all over the world. Over 350 restaurants all over the

W H E R E T R AV E L E R . C O M / N E W- YO R K - C I T Y / L O C A L - E V E N T S

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N E W YO R K

Simply The Best WHERE NOW

Adrienne Warren Channels Tina Turner on Broadway.

Brian Scott Lipton

W H E R E T R AV E L E R . C O M

TINA TURNER ON BROADWAY

Where Now

I

ADRIENNE WARREN AND THE CAST OF TINA - THE TINA TURNER MUSICAL , PHOTOS BY MANUEL HARLAN, 2019

n just a decade onstage, 32-yearold actress Adrienne Warren has already made a major splash in the pool of musical theater. She first caught audiences’ attention portraying the role of sassy Lorrell Robinson in the 2009 touring production of “Dreamgirls,” took Broadway by storm in 2012 as high school cheerleader Danielle in the joyful “Bring It On,” and stole the spotlight in 2016’s star-studded “Shuffle Along,” earning a Tony Award nomination for Best Featured Actress in a Musical for her dual roles of divalicious actress Gertrude Saunders and the more demure Florence Mills.

But Warren’s slow-if-steady rise to the top shot up like a rocket the second she stepped on the stage of London’s Aldwych Theatre in the spring of 2018 as the legendary rock goddess Tina Turner in the biomusical “Tina.” She received raves from the critics, who used words such as “astonishing” and “star-making” to describe her work—and she earned a coveted Olivier Award nomination for Best Actress in a Musical.

ADRIENNE WARREN IN TINA THE TINA TURNER MUSICAL

Now, after a fairly brief hiatus, Warren is once again tackling this iconic role at Broadway’s Lunt-Fontanne Theatre, shimmying and shaking through such hit songs as “Private Dancer,” “What’s Love Got to Do With It?” and “Proud Mary.”

Warren spoke to WhereTraveler New York about the challenges of the part, what she has personally learned from Tina Turner, why she is so happy to be finally back in New York City, and what fellow performer would “freak her out” if she came to the show.

How did you get the role of Tina?

I had a very unconventional way of getting involved in the show. I was asked to be part of the first table read in 2016, but when I went to my agent’s office to pick up the script, I did not know what it was going to be. When I saw that it was “Tina,” I thought, “This will be great!” And then I asked what part they wanted me to read. I never figured it was actually Tina.

Why would you think that?

First, I idolized Tina so much as a kid, I really thought no one can play her. But I really didn’t think anyone would see me as her when I had just done “Shuffle Along,” which was set in the 1920s and used more traditional Broadway music.

Eventually, I did ask someone why they wanted me, and I found out the great casting director Bernie Telsey had given them my name. He knew rock ’n’ roll was always in my blood. In fact, I was in a rock band in college, and I later toured with the Jim Steinman Band and the Trans-Siberian Orchestra. I’ve come full circle, in a way.

ADRIENNE WARREN AND THE CAST OF TINA, THE TINA TURNER MUSICAL

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Where Now

I read her autobiography, “I, Tina,” immediately, and then I watched as many YouTube videos of her as I could find. But it wasn’t so much about the research; I had to find it in myself to become the best Adrienne I could be to become the best Tina I could be. There is so much responsibility in sharing her story, both as a fan and a performer, that I literally changed my body and my voice in order to capture her energy and style. I put a lot of pressure on myself, so I was very relieved when the audiences in London liked what they saw. I think when you’re onstage in a part like this, you know that if the show doesn’t work, it’s really all on you!

Over the last two years, you have become friendly with Tina. What have you learned from her, both about being a performer and being a woman?

First, Tina taught me there are no shortcuts as a performer. What we do is hard work, and you have to do the work. Second, and more important than anything else, she has taught me the importance of believing in yourself, especially

when no one else is there for you.

She always says you have to find something to push you onto the path you want to take, and then you take it, and then you remember that there is no obstacle you can’t overcome. She has an inner strength that is so admirable; it’s why she and her music resonate so strongly after all these years. You can hear her tenacity in every breath she takes and see it in every move she makes.

the original Nala), and I told my mom during the show, “This is what I want to do.” I don’t think she was thrilled.

But I did everything I could to be able to come here and then get to Broadway, including going to Marymount Manhattan College. Of course, that said, I never thought it would lead to playing Tina!

This show is so exhausting that you’re only doing six shows a week. In fact, I thought you might not want to do it again in New York after the London run.

Did that thought ever cross your mind?

Honestly, I really missed having my Broadway community around. Our theaters are so close together here, which isn’t true over there. I barely saw anyone in London. I felt very isolated.

Now, I can just pop over to Restaurant Row, which has a lot of my favorite places, to get lunch or a drink with friends or my fellow actors. That makes me so happy!

I didn’t ever think I wouldn’t do it, but I wasn’t sure my body would make it. It was particularly hard for me in London, because I didn’t have my family or personal support system nearby. But now I feel ready to do it again. And I feel really grateful to have the opportunity.

How much does it mean to you now that you’re back in New York City?

I’ve loved this city my entire life. I grew up in Virginia, and I first came to visit when I was 10. We saw Heather Headley in “The Lion King” (she was

ADRIENNE WARREN AND THE CAST OF TINA, THE TINA TURNER MUSICAL

Other than your “support system,” what did you miss most about New York during your time in London?

You had a lot of celebrity visitors in London, including the Duke and Duchess of Sussex, Oprah Winfrey and Benedict Cumberbatch, to name a few.

Whom do you most want to come see the show here?

I’d really love the Obamas to come.

And then there’s Beyoncé, although I don’t think I could actually go onstage if I knew she was in the audience!

Knowing she was there would just freak me out.

So how do you top playing Tina Turner?

I don’t think you do. Artistically, this show is probably the most fulfilled I will ever be in musical theater, and that’s OK! But there are other things I want to do. I want to produce; I want to create work for other artists; and when I come back onstage, I think I’d like to do it in a play. Don’t worry, I’m not going to retire. All I can do is just keep moving forward.

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W H E R E T R AV E L E R ® N E W Y O R K J A N U A RY 2 0 2 0

ADRIENNE WARREN AND THE CAST OF TINA - THE TINA TURNER MUSICAL , PHOTOS BY MANUEL HARLAN, 2019

Once you got the part—which I hear Tina personnally picked you for—what kind of research did you do for the role?

EDITORS TIPS 2020

JANUARY

THINGS TO DO (AND NOT TO DO) Here are some great WhereTraveler tips from our editors on how to navigate NYC like a pro.

TAKE A FERRY. WHY NOT? There are lots of ferry services all around NYC, although they go unnoticed by most people. Try one of the ferries that runs between Manhattan, Queens, and Brooklyn.

NY Waterway’s East River Ferry will take you from 34th St. in Manhattan to Williamsburg, DUMBO, and Wall Street, and the fare is as little as $4 one way on a weekday.

LOOK WHERE YOU’RE WALKING! It is exciting to take in the sights of the city with all of your closest friends but be careful of walking five in a row down a busy sidewalk!

Walk in groups of two and don’t stop in the middle of the sidewalk to look around you. New Yorkers are constantly in a hurry and will be very irritated with you and makes it easier to spot you as a tourist.

GET OUT OF MIDTOWN Wander the winding streets of the Village, walk down Wall Street and see people hustling to work at the Stock Exchange in the Financial District, stroll down the beautiful High Line in Chelsea. If you’re really feeling adventurous travel out of Manhattan to one of the outer boroughs, including Brooklyn and Queens.

GO TO THE THEATER Head over to the TKTS booth or download the TodayTix app on your phone to pick up discounted Broadway tickets. TKTS sells discounted tickets on the day of the performance, and they are located right in Times Square and have an additional lesser-known location near the Seaport District. You may have to wait in line, but you can get discounts of up to 50% or more.

AVOID PEDICABS Ask any local New Yorker if they have ever taken a Pedicab and most likely their answer will be no. The average starting cost is $20 to go 10 blocks; it’s not the most cost effective way to get around the city. Take the subway. Over 5 million New Yorkers ride the subway every day. It’s fast, convenient and affordable—each ride is $2.75 or 7-day unlimited option is $33 might be worth it even if you’re not staying the week.

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F O R M O R E T H I N G S T O D O I N M I D T O W N E A S T, V I S I T W W W. W H E R E T R AV E L E R . C O M

ONE BLOCK FIND THE BEST IN

CLOCKWISE FROM TOP: THE CAMPBELL; THE UNITED NATIONS; HEARTLAND BREWERY & CHOPHOUSE; ST. PATRICK CATHEDRAL

EAT

SHOP

DRINK

PLAY

Midtown East is the NYC the world knows. Iconic skyscrapers—the Chrysler Building and the Seagram Building—dominate the skyline and on the ground are international and quintessential culinary options.

Few things are as fun as an indulgent and leisurely shopping trip on New York’s famous Fifth Avenue. Home to the biggest fashion houses, a huge zany gift shop and an upscale store for specialty dolls.

Be sure to take in the architecture of Midtown East, home to an international symbol for peace and some of NYC’s most famous and spectacular engineering.

 Nerai

 Bergdorf Goodman

Midtown East stays alive even after the nine-tofive workday. Explore the Grand Central Terminal bar post-theater cocktails or a nearby brewery for an after-hours nightcap. Or land at chic rooftop bar with dramatic views.

55 E. 54th St., 212.759.5554, www.nerainyc.com.com

754 Fifth Ave., 212.753.7300, www.bergdorfgoodman.com

 The Campbell

46th St. & 1st Ave., 212.963.4475, www.visit.un.org

 Smith & Wollensky

 Hammacher Schlemmer

797 Third Ave., 212.753.1530, www.smithandwollenskynyc. com

147 E. 57th St., 212.421.9001, www.hammacher.com

 Caviar Russe

 America Girl Place

538 Madison Ave., 2nd Fl., 212.980.5908, www.caviarrusse.com

75 Rockefeller Plaza, 877.247.5223, www.americangirl.com

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15 Vanderbilt Ave., 212.297.1781, www.thecampbellnyc.com

 Heartland Brewery and Chophouse 127 W. 43rd St, 646.366.0235, www.heartlandbrewery.com

 Refinery Rooftop 63 W. 38th St., 646.664.0372, www.refineryrooftop.com

 United Nations Headquarters

 Grand Central Terminal 89 E. 42nd St., 212.340.2583, www.metmuseum.org

 St. Patrick’s Cathedral Fifth Ave. btw. 50th/51st Sts., 212.753.2261, www.saintpatrickscathedral.org

W H E R E T R AV E L E R ® N E W Y O R K J A N U A RY 2 0 2 0

THE CAMPBELL, COURTESY THE CAMPBELL; THE UNITED NATIONS, COURTESY THE UNITED NATIONS; HEARTLAND BREWERY & CHOPHOUSE, COURTESY HEARTLAND BREWERY & CHOPHOUSE; ST. PATRICK’S CATHEDRAL, COURTESY ST. PATRICK’S CATHEDRAL

MIDTOWN EAST

THE

GUIDE OUR

FAVORITES

NEW BROADWAY AND OFF-BROADWAY OPENINGS

See below for all the newest shows to enter the “Great White Way” as well as great new works opening off-Broadway.

Broadway Openings MY NAME IS LUCY BARTON Opens Jan. 15 Lucy Barton wakes after an operation to find—much to her surprise—her mother at the foot of her bed. They haven’t seen each other in years. During their days-long visit, Lucy tries to understand her past, works to come to terms with her family, and begins to find herself as a writer.

Samuel J. Friedman Theater, 261 W. 47th St., 212.399.3000, www. manhattantheatreclub.com

GRAND HORIZONS Opens Jan. 23 In Bess Wohl’s play, Bill (James Cromwell) and Nancy (Jane Alexander) have been married for 50 years, when Nancy decides she wants out.

Hayes Theater, 240 W. 44th St., 212.541.4516, www.2st.com

choice demonstration. Bricks is planning to take his daughter to the zoo. But, as the day unfolds, nothing goes to plan and the two become unlikely friends, changing each other in ways they never thought possible. 59E59 Theater B, 59 E. 59th St., 212.753.5959, www.59e59.org

When a software update threatens to destroy life as they know it, Emojiland faces the most fundamental questions a society–­­ and a heart–can face: Who are we? And who matters? The Duke on 42nd Street, 229 W. 42nd St., 646.223.3010, www.dukeon42.org

PARIS Opens Jan. 21 Emmie is one of the only black people living in Paris, Vermont, and she desperately needs a job.

When she is hired at Berry’s, a store off the interstate selling everything from baby carrots to lawnmowers, she begins to understand a new kind of isolation. A play about invisibility, being underpaid, and how it feels to work on your feet for ten hours a day. Atlantic Theater Company/Stage 2, 330 W. 16th St., 212.691.5919, www.atlantictheater.org

THE WOMAN IN BLACK Opens Jan. 23 Stephen Mallatratt’s ingenious adaptation of Susan Hill’s acclaimed ghost story comes to startling life inside The McKittrick Hotel’s hidden Club Car. Directed by Robin Herford and featuring a full cast from London’s West End, this production marks the show’s first return to its original staging inside an intimate English pub.

The McKittrick Hotel, 530 W. 27th St., 212.904.1883, www.mckittrickhotel.com

A SOLDIER’S PLAY Opens Jan. 21 David Alan Grier and Blair Underwood star in the Pulitzer Prize-winning crime drama.

The play is inspired by Herman Melville’s Billy Budd, set in 1944 Louisiana as the military remains segregated. American Airlines Theater, 227 W. 42nd St., 212.719.1300, www.roundabouttheatre.org

BOOM Opens Jan. 15 100 voices. 25 years. 1 man.

BOOM is an explosive solo performance that documents the music, culture, and politics that shaped the Baby Boomers (1945-1969). Rick Miller takes us through 25 turbulent years and gives voice to over 100 influential politicians, activists, and musicians. BOOM is a mind-blowing experience for audiences of all generations.

59E59 Theater A, 59 E. 59th St., 212.753.5959, www.59e59.org

Off-Broadway Openings

EMOJILAND Opens Jan. 19 Emojiland is an electric ensemble piece about a diverse community of archetypes who take one another at face value.

MAZ AND BRICKS Opens Jan. 7 Maz is planning to attend a proLOOK FOR our featured advertisers throughout the Guide.

HOW TO LOAD A MUSKET Opens Jan. 11 Drawing on a series of interviews begun by playwright Talene Monahon in 2015, the play weaves together verbatim conversations with Revolutionary and Civil War reeanactors. How to Load a Musket offers a unique look at this all-consuming hobby and the people who practice it as they find themselves caught in the crosshairs of a national battle over how history is told.

59E59 Theater C, 59 E. 59th St., 212.753.5959, www.59e59.org

ARTS Broadway

A RT S

ONE OF THE MOST REMARKABLE SHOWS IN MUSICAL THEATER HISTORY. –Peter Marks,

JAGGED LITTLE PILL (2 hrs 30 mins) The new musical uses the songs and themes explored in Alanis Morissette’s 1995 album of the same name to tell the story of an apparently picture-perfect suburban family as it falls apart. Broadhurst Theatre, 235 W. 44th St., btw Broadway & Eighth Ave., 212.239.6200, www.jaggedlittlepill.com WEST SIDE STORY (Previews begin Dec. 10, opens Feb. 6) The landmark musical is completely reinterpreted for a new generation of theatergoers. Broadway Theatre, 1681 Broadway, btw W. 52nd & W. 53rd sts., 212.239.6200, www .westsidestorybway.com AIN’T TOO PROUD— THE LIFE AND TIMES OF THE TEMPTATIONS (2 hrs 30 mins) The biomusical captures the unmistakable harmonies, signature dance moves and personal stories of the legendary R&B group.

Imperial Theatre, 249 W. 45th St., btw Broadway & Eighth Ave., 212.239.6200, www.aint tooproudmusical.com ALADDIN (2 hrs 20 mins) Disney Theatrical Productions’ musical comedy is an exotic magic carpet ride, filled with romance, special effects and songs from the 1992 animated feature. New Amsterdam Theatre, 214 W. 42nd St., btw Seventh & Eighth aves., 866.870.2717, www.alad dinthemusical.com BEETLEJUICE (2 hrs 30 mins) A demented, rambunctious spirit named Beetlejuice wreaks havoc in the musical comedy based on the popular 1988 film.

Winter Garden Theatre, 1634 Broadway, btw W. 50th & W. 51st sts., 212.239.6200, www .beetlejuicebroadway.com

Music Box Theatre, 239 W. 45th St. • DearEvanHansen.com

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THE BOOK OF MORMON (2 hrs 30 mins) Two Mormon boys are on a mission to save souls in Africa in the irreverent musical comedy. Eugene

W H E R E T R AV E L E R ® N E W Y O R K J A N U A RY 2 0 2 0

CHICAGO (2 hrs 30 mins) It’s the Roaring Twenties and two alluring jailbirds attain stardom while singing about sex and corruption.

Ambassador Theatre, 219 W. 49th St., btw Broadway & Eighth Ave., 212.239.6200, www.chicagothemusical.com

Arts

O’Neill Theatre, 230 W. 49th St., btw Broadway & Eighth Ave., 877.250.2929, www.bookofmor monmusical.com

Start your trip in NYC. End it in OZ.

A CHRISTMAS CAROL (Closes Jan. 5) (2 hrs 15 mins) The new interpretation of the Charles Dickens classic stars Campbell Scott as Ebenezer Scrooge. Lyceum Theatre, 149 W. 45th St., btw Sixth & Seventh aves., 212.239.6200, www .achristmascarolbroadway.com

DAVID BYRNE’S AMERICAN UTOPIA (1 hr 40 mins, no intermission) The theatrical concert includes songs from pop/rocker Byrne’s 2018 album of the same name, as well as songs from Talking Heads and his solo career. Hudson Theatre, 141 W. 44th St., btw Sixth & Seventh aves., 855.801.5876, www .americanutopiabroadway.com

GERSHWIN THEATRE, 222 W. 51st St. WickedtheMusical.com

THE GUIDE

COME FROM AWAY (1 hr 40 mins, no intermission) On Sept. 11, 2001, 38 commercial airplanes were diverted to Gander, Newfoundland. How the passengers and the town adjusted to a changed world on Sept. 12 is at the heart of this upbeat musical. Gerald Schoenfeld Theatre, 236 W. 45th St., btw Broadway & Eighth Ave., 212.239.6200, www.come fromaway.com

TONY AWARD WINNER BEST CHOREOGRAPHY

DEAR EVAN HANSEN (2 hrs 30 mins) In the acclaimed musical, Evan, a socially awkward high-school senior, goes from outsider to cool guy when he fabricates emails between himself and a classmate who committed suicide. Music Box Theatre, 239 W. 45th St., btw Broadway & Eighth Ave., 212.239.6200, www.dearevan hansen.com FROZEN (2 hrs 15 mins) Disney’s 2013 animated feature is now onstage, with new songs

O N B R OA D W AY AT T H E OFFICIAL AIRLINE

I M P E R I A L T H E AT R E

AintTooProudMusical.com

Proud Partner of Ain’t Too Proud

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and story material added. St. James Theatre, 246 W. 44th St., btw Broadway & Eighth Ave., 866.870.2717, www.frozenthemusical.com HADESTOWN (2 hrs 25 mins) Two classic love stories are set to a New Orleans beat in the 2019 Tony-winning musical. Walter Kerr Theatre, 219 W. 48th St., btw Broadway & Eighth Ave., 877.250.2929, www.hadestown.com HAMILTON (2 hrs 45 mins) America’s past is told through the hip-hop sounds of today in the musical about political mastermind Alexander Hamilton. Richard Rodgers Theatre, 226 W. 46th St., btw Broadway & Eighth Ave., 877.250.2929, www.hamil tonbroadway.com

A RT S

AN LAR DEM U P O P Y ENDED B 12 !

NOW EXT THROUGH JAN.

D

HARRY POTTER AND THE CURSED CHILD (Part One, 2 hrs 40 mins; Part Two, 2 hrs 35 mins) Harry Potter is all grown-up in this two-part dramatic spectacle.

Lyric Theatre, 214 W. 43rd St., btw Seventh & Eighth aves., 877.250.2929, www.harry pottertheplay.com THE INHERITANCE (Part I: 3 hrs 15 mins; Part 2: 3 hrs 20 mins) In Matthew Lopez’s epic two-part play, three generations of gay men search for a sense of community. Ethel Barrymore Theatre, 243 W. 47th St., btw Broadway & Eighth Ave., 212.239.6200, www .theinheritanceplay.com THE LION KING (2 hrs 30 mins) Theatergoers of all ages sing along at the hit stage version of Disney’s animated movie. Minskoff Theatre, 200 W. 45th St., btw Broadway & Eighth Ave., 866.870.2717, www.lionking.com

Featuring the 80’s songs you love: Every Rose Has Its Thorn • I Wanna Know What Love Is Here I Go Again • Don’t Stop Believin’ and more!

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RockOfAgesMusical.com

MEAN GIRLS (2 hrs 30 mins) Tina Fey has written the book for the hit musical about teenage rivalry in high school. August Wilson Theatre, 245 W. 52nd St., btw Broadway & Eighth Ave., 877.250.2929, www.meangirls onbroadway.com

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OKLAHOMA! (Closes Jan. 19) (2 hrs 45 mins) Rodgers and Hammerstein’s 1943 musical is reinvented for the 21st century. Circle in the Square Theatre, 235 W. 50th St., btw Broadway & Eighth Ave., 212.239.6200, www.oklahoma broadway.com

Arts

MOULIN ROUGE! THE MUSICAL (2 hrs 35 mins) With Baz Luhrmann’s 2001 movie for inspiration, the musical celebrates truth, beauty, freedom and l’amour. Al Hirschfeld Theatre, 302 W. 45th St., btw Eighth & Ninth aves., 877.250.2929, www.moulin rougemusical.com

“A hit and a masterpiece!

JOYOUS, UPLIFTING AND PLENTY OF HUMOR.” COME TOGETHER AT

THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA (2 hrs 30 mins) Broadway’s longest-running musical— now in its 32nd year—is a crowd-pleasing spectacle.

Majestic Theatre, 247 W. 44th St., btw Broadway & Eighth Ave., 212.239.6200, www.phantombroadway.com

THE GUIDE

SLAVE PLAY (Closes Jan. 19) (2 hrs, no intermission) Jeremy O. Harris’ play explores race, sex and power.

Suitable for ages 17 and older.

John Golden Theatre, 252 W. 45th St., btw Broadway & Eighth Ave., 212.239.6200, www.slave playbroadway.com THE SOUND INSIDE (Closes Jan. 12) (1 hr 30 mins, no intermission) In Adam Rapp’s play, a tenured professor of creative writing (MaryLouise Parker) and a talented student (Will Hochman) connect. Studio 54, 254 W. 54th St., btw Broadway & Eighth Ave., 212.239.6200, www.soundin sidebroadway.com TINA: THE TINA TURNER MUSICAL (2 hrs 45 mins) The story of the Queen of Rock ’n’ Roll is told through the music that made her a global sensation.

Lunt-Fontanne Theatre, 205 W. 46th St., btw Broadway & Eighth Ave., 877.250.2929, www.tinaon broadway.com TO KILL A MOCKINGBIRD (2 hrs 35 mins) Harper Lee’s novel has been adapted for the

The Hit MusicaL BASED ON THE Remarkable True Story

COME FROM AWAY Book, Music and Lyrics by Irene Sankoff and David Hein Directed by Christopher Ashley

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OFFICIAL AIRLINE

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stage. Shubert Theatre, 225 W. 44th St., btw Broadway & Eighth Ave., 212.239.6200, www.tokilla mockingbirdbroadway.com WICKED (2 hrs 45 mins) A green-hued girl is branded the Wicked Witch of the West in the musical, now in its 17th year.

Gershwin Theatre, 222 W. 51st St., btw Broadway & Eighth Ave., 877.250.2929, www.wick edthemusical.com

Off-Broadway+Beyond JERSEY BOYS (2 hrs 30 mins) The behindthe-scenes story of pop sensations, Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons, includes the group’s greatest hits. New World Stages, Stage 1, 340 W. 50th St., btw Eighth & Ninth aves., 212.239.6200, www.jerseyboys newyork.com

A RT S

NEW VICTORY THEATER Entertainment appropriate for young people and families.

Highlight: Dec. 6-Jan. 5: Cirque Mechanics’ “42FT: A Menagerie of Mechanical Marvels.” 209 W. 42nd St., btw Seventh & Eighth aves., 646.223.3010, www.new victory.org THE PLAY THAT GOES WRONG (2 hrs) Everything that could comically go wrong does when a college drama society puts on a 1920s murder mystery. New World Stages, Stage 4, 340 W. 50th St., btw Eighth & Ninth aves., 212.239.6200, www .broadwaygoeswrong.com ROCK OF AGES (Closes Jan. 12) (2 hrs 15 mins) The hit musical is propelled by rock ballads and power anthems from the 1980s. New World Stages, Stage 3, 340 W. 50th St., btw Eighth & Ninth aves., 212.239.6200, www.rock ofagesmusical.com

Dance+Music CARNEGIE HALL The 2019–2020 season is the venerable concert hall’s 129th.

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Highlights: Dec. 8: Vienna Boys Choir. Dec. 11: Idina METROPOLITAN OPERA Operas performed this month are “The Queen of Spades,” “Le Nozze di Figaro,” “Akhnaten,” “Der Rosenkavalier,” “The Magic Flute” and “Wozzeck.”

Metropolitan Opera House, Columbus Ave., btw W. 63rd & W. 64th sts., 212.362.6000, www.metopera.org NEW YORK PHILHARMONIC The city’s preeminent classical-music orchestra. Concerts: Dec. 3, 5-7, 11-14, 15, 17-21 (Handel’s Messiah), 31. David Geffen Hall at Lincoln Center, Columbus Ave., at W. 64th St., 212.875.5656, www.nyphil.org

Jazz Clubs DIZZY’S CLUB COCA-COLA This intimate club boasts a stunning stage backdrop: the glittering Manhattan skyline.

Highlights: Dec. 5-8: Ulysses Owens Jr. Big Band. Dec. 1315: Mary Stallings. Dec. 21-23: Barry Harris Trio. Dec. 26-31: Carlos Henriquez Nonet.

Dinner served nightly. 10 Columbus Cir., Broadway & W. 60th St., 212.258.9595, www .jazz.org/dizzys VILLAGE VANGUARD One of New York’s most prestigious jazz clubs. Highlights: Dec. 3-7: Johnathan Blake & Pentad. Dec. 10-15: Christian McBride & Inside Straight.

Dec. 17-22: Kenny Barron Quintet. Dec. 24-29: Kenny Barron Trio. Dec. 31: Chris Potter Circuits Trio. 178 Seventh Ave. So., btw Perry & W. 11th sts., 212.255.4037, www.villagevanguard.com

Pop/Rock Venues BARCLAYS CENTER Brooklyn’s state-of-the-art arena. Highlights: Dec. 6: Bad Bunny. Dec. 10: Dimash Qudaibergen. Dec. 12: Anuel AA. Dec. 13: D’usse Palooza. Dec. 31: The Strokes. 620 Atlantic Ave., at Flatbush Ave., Brooklyn, 800.745.3000, www

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e Go w her

k r o w g oing.

Y s i e N

Take the FREE Staten Island Ferry, past the Statue of Liberty to Empire Outlets.

Located steps away from the St. George ferry terminal.

NYC’S FIRST AND ONLY OUTLET DESTINATION EMPIREOUTLETS.NYC

.barclayscenter.com BEACON THEATRE Pop-music concerts and other acts. Highlights: Dec. 2, 3, 5, 6: Bob Dylan. Dec. 13: Jerry Seinfeld. Dec. 17-18: Brett Eldredge. Dec. 28: Allman Family Revival. Dec. 30-31: Gov’t Mule. 2124 Broadway, at W. 74th St., 866.858.0008, ww.msg.com/beacon-theatre

CELEBRATE

MADISON SQUARE GARDEN An entertainment and sporting venue. Highlights in the Arena: Dec. 3-4: Cher.

Dec. 11: Billy Joel. Dec. 13: Z100’s Jingle Ball. Dec. 15: Mariah Carey. Dec. 18-19: Andrea Bocelli. Dec. 28-31: Phish. Highlight in the Hulu Theater: Dec. 12-29: “’Twas the Night Before” by Cirque du Soleil. Seventh Ave., btw W. 31st & W. 33rd sts., 866.858.0008, www.msg.com/ madison-square-garden

wishes.

A RT S

SHOPPING Accessories FLIGHT 001 Practical and ingenious items for travelers, such as carry-on bags, cosmetics bags, electronic gadgets, stationery and books. 96 Greenwich Ave., btw W. 12th & Jane sts., 212.989.0001, www .flight001.com

Celebrate together!

This holiday season, spend a special day at American Girl New York. Enjoy holiday events, get girl and doll styles in the salon, and share conversation over a meal in our café.

Plus, be sure to check out our new interactive Doll Hospital and Julie’s Groovy World. Wishes granted.

©/TM 2019 American Girl

™

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PLAN YOUR VISIT: americangirl.com/newyork 75 Rockefeller Plaza, New York, NY 10019

IL BISONTE High-quality, well-designed handbags, briefcases and other accessories can be found at this Italian leather goods retailer’s flagship store in Greenwich Village. 381 Bleecker St., at Perry St., 212.633.0334, www .ilbisonte.com

Department Stores BERGDORF GOODMAN The iconic emporium’s separate men’s and women’s stores offer designer labels, accessories and cosmetics. 754 Fifth Ave., btw 57th & 58th sts., 212.753.7300, www.bergdorfgoodman.com

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BLOOMINGDALE’S A fashion hub carrying designer clothing, jewelry, accessories and more. 1000 Third Ave., at E. 59th St., 212.705.2000, www .bloomingdales.com MACY’S HERALD SQUARE The store spans a full city block.

151 W. 34th St., btw Broadway & Seventh Ave., 212.695.4400, www.macys.com NORDSTROM The new seven-f loor women’s f lagship offers clothing, accessories, shoes, beauty and several dining options.

W. 57th St. & Broadway, www .nordstrom.com SAKS FIFTH AVENUE The women’s shoe salon is so big, it occupies an entire floor of the flagship location of the luxury store for men and women.

611 Fifth Ave., btw 49th & 50th sts., 212.753.4000, www.saks fifthavenue.com

SHOPPING

Jewelry MARTINIQUE JEWELERS In Times Square since 1963, this fine jeweler sells Alex and Ani bangles, exclusive sterling silver NYC charms by Pandora, the Thomas Sabo collection, and timeless diamond and 18karat gold pieces. 750 Seventh Ave., btw W. 49th & W. 50th sts., 212.262.7600, www.martinique jewelers.com TIFFANY & CO. Diamonds, pearls, gold, silver, sterling flatware, fine timepieces, crystal and more—all wrapped in signature robin’s-egg blue boxes. 727 Fifth Ave., at 57th St., 212.755.8000, www.tiffany.com

Shopping Centers BROOKFIELD PLACE High-end apparel and accessories brands for men, women and kids, plus bookstores, beauty shops and dining options. 230 Vesey St., btw West & Liberty sts., 212.978.1698, www.brook fieldplaceny.com EMPIRE OUTLETS

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The only outlet shopping center in NYC houses more than 100 designer outlet retailers, including H&M, Levi’s, Brooks Brothers, Gap and more. Easy access to and from Manhattan via the Staten Island Ferry; less than a five-minute walk from the St. George Terminal. 55 Richmond Ter., Staten Island, www. empireoutlets.nyc THE SHOPS AND RESTAURANTS AT HUDSON YARDS Luxury and specialty stores, including Neiman Marcus, fill this multifloor retail and dining destination. 20 Hudson Yards, at 10th Ave. & W. 33rd St., www .hudsonyardsnewyork.com THE SHOPS AT COLUMBUS CIRCLE There are more than 60 stores and fine restaurants under one roof, plus bars, a Central Park-view atrium, art installations, special events and Jazz at Lincoln Center. Time Warner Center, 10 Columbus Cir., btw W. 58th & W. 60th sts., 212.823.6300, www.theshops atcolumbuscircle.com WESTFIELD WORLD TRADE CENTER Top-tier stores include Apple, Roberto Coin, Longines and Stuart Weitzman. 185 Greenwich St., btw Vesey & Barclay sts., 212.284.9982, www.westfield.com/westfield worldtradecenter

PROMOTION

IL BISONTE

PRESENTS ITS NEW FALL-WINTER 2019/20 COLLECTION

The Il Bisonte Fall/ Winter collection is a new journey into the world of skilled craftsmanship, extreme versatility and vibrant colors. Il Bisonte continues to maintain its casual-chic style with extraordinary refined design— it is both anti-classic and timeless.

Functional shoulder bags of different sizes, linear and refined, as well as roomy unisex shopping bags, with various open or zippered compartments, work perfectly either as a briefcase or an accessory.

But it’s the Il Bisonte logo that is the star of the collection: It’s incorporated both in the weave of a new jacquard fabric and on classic cowhide finished with suede inlay. The Italian iconic bags—Disco, Baguette, “Mezzaluna” and “Selleria”— are offered in elegant cow fur.

Toys+Games AMERICAN GIRL PLACE In addition to the popular historical and contemporary doll collection, the store sells doll accessories and matching dolland-girl clothing. Café, hair salon and personal shopping. 75 Rockefeller Plz., 877.247.5223, www.americangirl.com

EXPLORE

The new men’s collection has a decidedly urban and contemporary flavor. Backpacks as well as briefcases in various sizes come in vintage cowhide or durable waterproof poly-cotton and are all enhanced by modern details in “gun barrel” metal.

The men’s line is filled out by three items: a briefcase, a backpack and a laptop case made of vintage cowhide and canvas, all endowed with functional details that offer a sporty yet refined touch.

Transportation GRAND CENTRAL TERMINAL Commuter trains run on the

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Shopping

Metro-North railroad line to and from this landmark.

Within the terminal, there are 60 shops and 35 dining options.

E. 42nd St., btw Lexington & Vanderbilt aves., 212.340.2583, www.grandcentralterminal. com NJ TRANSIT NJ Transit is your ride to Newark Liberty International Airport, MetLife Stadium, Prudential Center, the Jersey Shore and more. Buy tickets in advance with NJ Transit’s Mobile App. 973.275.5555, www.njtransit.com STATUE CRUISES Ferries carry visitors to and from the Statue of Liberty National Monument and Ellis Island.

Daily departure times from Battery Park vary. 877.523.9849, www .statuecruises.com

ATTRACTIONS THE GUIDE

Discounts

NEW YORK CITYPASS The discount pass provides access to a choice of six major attractions at a saving of 42 percent off regular admissions.

Passes are sold online or at participating attractions and are good for nine days from the first day of use. www.citypass.com

Museums AMERICAN MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY Exhibition halls are filled with dinosaur skeletons, fossils, dioramas and more. The Hayden Planetarium is here, too. Open daily 10 am-5:45 pm. Central Park West, at W. 79th St., 212.769.5100, www.amnh.org THE FRICK COLLECTION Old Master paintings, furnishings and decorative arts in an early-20th-century limestone mansion. Open Tu-Sa 10 am-6 pm, Su 11 am-5 pm. Children under 10 are not admitted.

1 E. 70th St., at Fifth Ave., 212.288.0700, www.frick.org GUGGENHEIM MUSEUM

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Frank Lloyd Wright’s landmark structure houses works of modern and contemporary art.

Open daily 10 am-5:30 pm, Tu & Sa until 8 pm. 1071 Fifth Ave., at 89th St., 212.423.3500, www .guggenheim.org THE METROPOLITAN MUSEUM OF ART American, European and Far Eastern fine and decorative art, plus fashion, fill this world-renowned encyclopedic museum.

Open Su-Th 10 am-5:30 pm, F & Sa 10 am-9 pm. 1000 Fifth Ave., at 82nd St., 212.535.7710, www .metmuseum.org

E X P L O R E + AT T R A C T I O N S

THE MORGAN LIBRARY & MUSEUM The private library of financier J. Pierpont Morgan is now a research facility and museum featuring rare books, manuscripts, drawings and prints. Open Tu-Th 10:30 am-5 pm, F 10:30 am-9 pm, Sa 10 am-6 pm, Su 11 am-6 pm. 225 Madison Ave., at E. 36th St., 212.685.0008, www .themorgan.org

1.877.LADYTIX

ANNIVERSARY an75TH off broadway hit

OF AN OFF BROADWAY HIT! Owned and operated by the Scognamillo Family from the landmark restaurant made famous by Frank Sinatra

Our only location is 236 W. 56th Street between Broadway and Eighth Avenue

www.patsys.com 26

(212) 247-3491

MUSEUM OF MODERN ART One of the world’s greatest repositories of late-19th-, 20th- and 21st-century works of art. Sa-Th 10:30 am-5:30 pm, F 10:30 am-8 pm. 11 W. 53rd St., btw Fifth & Sixth aves., 212.708.9400, www.moma.org NATIONAL SEPTEMBER 11 MEMORIAL & MUSEUM A place for reflection and remembrance. Memorial: Open daily 7:30 am-9 pm.

Free. Museum: Open Su-Th 9 am-8 pm (last entry 6 pm), F & Sa 9 am-9 pm (last entry 7 pm). Museum entrance: 180 Greenwich St., btw Liberty & Fulton sts., 212.266.5211, www .911memorial.org WHITNEY MUSEUM OF AMERICAN ART 20th-century and contemporary American art and artists.

Open M, W, Th, Sa & Su 10:30 am-6 pm, F 10:30 am-10 pm. 99 Gansevoort St., btw Washington & West sts., 212.570.3600, www.whitney.org

Sights

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ONE WORLD OBSERVATORY The three-level indoor observatory is at the top of the tallest building in the Western Hemisphere. Open daily 8 am-9 pm (last ticket sold at 8:15 pm). One World Trade Center, 285 Fulton St., entrance to the observatory is on West St., at Vesey St., 844.696.1776, www .oneworldobservatory.com

DINING Downtown Manhattan FRAUNCES TAVERN— American. The historic locale, where Gen. George Washington bade farewell to his troops, features downhome comfort foods. L (M-F), D (nightly), Brunch (Sa & Su). 54 Pearl St., at Broad St., 212.968.1776, www .frauncestavern.com KATZ’S DELICATESSEN— Jewish/American. This iconic spot has been serving pastrami, corned beef, knishes, pickles and more since 1888. B, L & D (daily). 205 E. Houston St., at Ludlow St., 212.254.2246, www .katzsdelicatessen.com TRIBECA GRILL— Contemporary American.

The Robert De Niro/Drew Nieporent collaboration offers robust fare and an award-winning international wine list. L

VIA CAROTA—Italian. The West Village gastroteca is old-world Tuscan in ambience, food and decor. Chefs Jody Williams and Rita Sodi were jointly named Best Chef in NYC at the 2019 James Beard Foundation Awards. L & D (daily). No reservations are accepted. 51 Grove St., btw Seventh Ave. So. & Bleecker St., 212.255.1962, www.viacarota.com

For great dining experiences: Drew Nieporent and Myriad Restaurant Group invite you to

EAT DOWNTOWN - Michelin

Great American Food & Wine 375 Greenwich St. 212-941-3900 Winner of the WINE SPECTATOR Grand Award Since 2002

Modern European Dining 239 West Broadway 212-219-2777 Winner! BEST NEW RESTAURANT IN AMERICA James Beard Awards 2015

Midtown Manhattan BLUE SMOKE—Barbecue.

Traditional Southern cooking is served family-style. This is a no-tipping restaurant; hospitality is included. Live jazz nightly downstairs. L & D (daily). 116 E. 27th St., btw Lexington Ave. & Park Ave. So., 212.447.773, www.bluesmoke. com

Award-winning New Style Japanese 195 Broadway 212-219-0500

Award-winning New Style Japanese - MIDTOWN 40 West 57th Street 212-757-3000

www.MyriadRestaurantGroup.com

HOOTERS—Contemporary American. The eatery is revered for its selection of oysters and casual ambience under a stunning vaulted tile ceiling.

L & D (M-Sa). 155 W. 33rd St., btw Sixth & Seventh aves., 212.695.9580, www.original hooters.com JOE ALLEN—American.

Pre- and post-theater dining is a tradition at this warm go-to, known for its comfort food and posters of Broadway flops.

L & D (daily), Brunch (Sa & Su). 326 W. 46th St., btw Eighth & Ninth aves., 212.581.6464, www.joe allenrestaurant.com PATSY’S ITALIAN RESTAURANT—Italian.

This family-run restaurant (since 1944), a favorite of the late Frank Sinatra, specializes in Neapolitan cuisine, including penne alla vodka and gnocchi with meat sauce.

L & D (daily). 236 W. 56th St., btw Broadway & Eighth Ave., 212.247.3491, www .patsys.com

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THE GUIDE

TOP OF THE ROCK The open-air observation deck welcomes visitors with panoramic vistas some 70 floors above street level. Open daily 8 am-midnight (last elevator ascends at 11 pm). 30 Rockefeller Plz., W. 50th St., btw Fifth & Sixth aves., 877.692.7625, www .topoftherocknyc.com

(M-F), D (nightly), Brunch (Su). 375 Greenwich St., at Franklin St., 212.941.3900, www.myriadres taurantgroup.com

Attractions

NEW YORK BOTANICAL GARDEN Miles of gardens and walking trails, educational programs, free tours and a hands-on children’s garden offer an escape from the city. Tu-Su 10 am-6 pm. Nov. 23-Jan. 26: Holiday Train Show in the Enid A. Haupt Conservatory.

2900 Southern Blvd., Bronx, 718.817.8700, www.nybg.org

Uptown Manhattan CAFE LUXEMBOURG— French. This glamorous Art Deco Upper West Side bistro serves all the classics: cassoulet, steak tartare, coq au vin, steak frites, moules frites and more. B & L (M-F), D (nightly), Brunch (Sa & Su). 200 W. 70th St., btw Amsterdam & West End aves., 212.873.7411, www.cafe luxembourg.com HEIDELBERG—German.

Smoked bratwurst with potato salad and roasted pork shank with sauerkraut are served at this family-run staple, established in the 1930s and one of the last German restaurants in NYC. Biergarten downstairs.

L (W-Su), D (nightly). 1648 Second Ave., btw E. 85th & E. 86th sts., 212.628.2332, www .heidelberg-nyc.com

DINING

LEXINGTON CANDY SHOP—American. This old-school luncheonette is best known for its traditional diner menu, including all-day breakfast and fresh egg creams. B, L & D (daily). Closes M-Sa at 7 pm, Su at 6 pm. 1226 Lexington Ave., at E. 83rd St., 212.288.0057, www.lexingtoncandyshop.net

6 to 68th Street Q to 72nd Street

P.J. CLARKE’S— American. Burgers, steaks and shepherd’s pie in a saloon environment across the street from Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts. L & D (daily).

44 W. 63rd St., btw Broadway & Columbus Ave., 212.957.9700, www.pjclarkes.com RED ROOSTER HARLEM— American. Ethiopian-born, Swedish-raised Chef/owner Marcus Samuelsson serves refined comfort foods, like hot honey yardbird and seafood jambalaya. L (M-F), D (nightly), Brunch (Sa & Su). 310 Lenox Ave., btw W. 125th & W. 126th sts., 212.792.9001, www.red roosterharlem.com

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HOLIDAY TRAIN SHOW

®

Through January 26 New York City’s favorite holiday tradition is back!

Founding Sponsors

VICTORIA and ROBERT ZOELLNER

Sponsors

LuEsther T. Mertz Charitable Trust

nybg.org

W H E R E T R AV E L E R . C O M

WHERE TO EXPLORE 2020

JANUARY RADIO CITY MUSIC HALL

NEIGHBORHOODS Midtown West

Comprised of Times Square, the Theatre District, and points west, Midtown West spans 59th St. to 42nd St. Highlights include Rockefeller Center, Radio City Music Hall, home of the famous Rockettes and the Rainbow Room. One of New York’s classic restaurants, the Rainbow Room reopened in 2014 after undergoing a major renovation. The new space features a touch of modernity without any of the character and history lost.

Located at Rockefeller Center is NBC Studios where visitors can get tours of studios that host shows such as Saturday Night Live and The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon.

Three blocks north is where you’ll find the Museum of Modern Art. Constantly featuring various exhibits and events, MoMA never fails to deliver something interesting on any given day.

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Heading farther west is Hell’s Kitchen. Originally known as a crime heavy neighborhood pre-gentrification, Hell’s Kitchen began life as a haven for lower- and working-class Irish Americans. The bustling neighborhood is now most known for Restaurant Row, located on 46th St. Home to many established restaurants this culture-heavy New York City street has something for all palates. Hell’s Kitchen isn’t only known for its delicious eateries, however.

Space Museum as well as the famous Circle Line sightseeing boats.

In the latter half of the 20th century, Hell’s Kitchen grew in popularity because of its proximity to Broadway Theaters and the Actors Studio. On top of that, the cost of living at the time was low, making the unpopular neighborhood a hot choice for aspiring actors and artists. In fact, artists ranging from Alicia Keys to Sylvester Stallone once set up shop in the area over the years. The extreme western edge by the Hudson River boasts the famous WWII aircraft carrier, now the Intrepid Sea, Air &

Formerly known as Longacre Square, Times Square got its title when The New York Times moved into the area in 1904. Nowadays, the area is known for many of its key tourist attractions.

These include Madame Tussauds, Ripley’s Believe It or Not!, Dave and Buster’s, Spyscape and the National Geographic Encounter Ocean Odyssey.

Times Square/ Broadway

Times Square stretches from 40th St. to 53rd St. between 8th Avenue and Broadway, right at the heart of the Theater District.

The Theater district is home to 41 professional theaters and is host to some of the most popular shows on Broadway.

St. and Broadway. This is a perfect place for a selfie you won’t forget, as well as the spot to see the famed TKTS ticket board. Get deals on same-day Broadway tickets — up to 50% off some of the biggest shows on Broadway. Hershey’s Chocolate World and M&M’s World can be found a block north of the Red Stairs, stocking chocolates, sweets, collectibles and gifts.

If you’re looking for more attractions to fill your time, Gulliver’s Gate might be the place you’re looking for. As billed in its website description, “Leave the Land of Large and enter an

BROADWAY

If you make your way to the northern section of Times Square, you’ll find yourself at the Red Stairs at 47th

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NEW YORK PUBLIC LIBRARY

amazing global experience in Times Square.” Gulliver’s Gate is an immersive experience that allows you to explore 25+ cities from 5 continents, all of them scaled down to fit in the 50,000-square-foot Museum of Miniatures.

If you find that you’ve spent so much time in Times Square that midnight is now upon you, relax, you’re in the right place at the right time. Every night, beginning three minutes to midnight, Times Square has its Midnight Moment.

This is the world’s largest, longest-running digital art exhibition, synchronized on all the electronic billboards throughout Times Square.

Similar to the Midnight Moment, if you’re in New York City around New Year’s Eve, don’t miss the Times Square ball drop. This is a must see, at least once in a lifetime. With over a million annual visitors it’s like a huge party at the heart of the City That Never Sleeps, and a testament to the statement that Times Square is the “crossroads of the world.”

Midtown East

Spanning from 5th Avenue to the FDR Drive, and 59th Street to 42nd Street, Midtown East is right near the

buzz of Times Square. Not to be outshined by Manhattan’s famous city center, Midtown East boasts a variety of attractions not found anywhere else in New York City.

Located right at the heart of Midtown East is Grand Central Terminal. This New York City landmark is flooded by daily waves of people going to and from the city. Not just a transportation hub, Grand Central is also a center for dining, shopping, and culture.

The iconic location has 60 shops, 35 places to eat, and many pieces of magnificent architecture, including a beautiful astronomical ceiling and the whispering arches. Inexpensive one hour self-guided tours are also available for a more extensive look with Grand Central Tours available in the terminal.

things such as Ping Pong and Kubb. Located at the east end of the park is the New York Public Library, home to over 10 million books.

landmark worth seeing.

Arrive before 4:45 p.m. to get a guided tour on any given weekday.

Going up fifth Avenue you’ll find St. Patrick’s Cathedral on 50th St., a 339-foottall cathedral that is home to many religious works of art, musical instruments, and architecture that never ceases to impress.

Continue north and you’ll find yourself strolling through one of the most glamorous shopping districts in the city, which hosts Saks Fifth Avenue, Bergdorf Goodman, Tiffany & Co. and other high end stores. Here you can window shop to your heart’s content or even enter some of the world’s most renowned stores in New York City.

Central Midtown

Going to the FDR Drive on the other side of Midtown East, is the globally recognized United Nations from 48th to 42nd Street.

With an art collection that could rival some of New York City’s museums, this location is an international

Central midtown boasts a few major sites including the famous Empire State Building. This building is a National Historic Landmark.

Built in just 410 days, it is 102-stories high and has marvelous views of the city from above. If you wait until dark, make sure to look at what color the Empire State building is sporting. They change every day based on what holidays or commemorative events are happening.

For a more adult experience, the Museum of Sex is located just a few blocks down from the Empire State Building.

Also in Central Midtown is the enormous Macy’s flagship store. Sitting on one entire city block, it is also one of the largest department stores in the world with 11 floors of retail.

MACY’S

Two avenues west of Grand Central, on fifth Avenue, is Bryant Park, a perfect spot to sit and rest while watching, or joining, many of the daily events that take place. In the wintertime, the main attractions at the park are the skating rink and the Holiday Shops, while in other seasons, the main attractions are the lawn, where movie nights and yoga sessions take place, and the game spots, hosting

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The Upper West Side starts at Columbus Circle, where Broadway meets 59th Street, 8th Avenue, Central Park South and Central Park West. This mesh of streets join to form Columbus Circle. The Time Warner complex here houses some of the most exquisite shops in the city as well as Jazz at Lincoln Center — a concert venue that always has a fantastic jazz line-up.

One of the largest cultural complexes in the world is also nearby on 63rd St. and Columbus Avenue. Lincoln Center is an impressive and sleek set of buildings that house some of the most impressive arts in the city, including the Metropolitan Opera, the New York City Ballet, and the New York Philharmonic.

you’ll be able to see for yourself why the avenue is known for its assortment of restaurants

Farther uptown, you can find the famous American Museum of Natural History. The massive hanging whale, the largest dinosaur skeleton of the Titanosaur and the state-of-the-art Rose Center for Earth and Space, locally known as The Planetarium, are not to be missed. Right next door, fanatics of history will be delighted to find the New York Historical Society Museum. Going up along Amsterdam Avenue,

Central Park

Starting around 110th Street you’ll find yourself in Morningside Heights, home to the campuses of the Jewish Theological Seminary, Columbia University and Barnard College. See the breathtaking St. John the Divine and take your picture in front of Tom’s restaurant, the famous site of Monk’s diner from the hit sitcom Seinfeld — two must see locations in the Upper West Side and Morningside Heights. Grant’s Tomb is also just a few blocks away as well.

It would take a lifetime to explore the entirety of Central Park. However, picking a select few landmarks to see can help make the most of a Central Park trip. You can get a carriage ride at the 59th Street end of the park. These rides can last either 20 minutes or 45 minutes, and the friendly guide will provide facts about Central Park throughout the whole trip. These horse-drawn carriages are

SHEEP’S MEADOW, CENTRAL PARK

METROPOLITAN MUSEUM OF ART

a perfect way to start a Central Park visit.

One of the many sites in the park should include the Central Park Zoo. Located on 64th St. and 5th Ave.,it is home to Leopards, Red Pandas, Snow Monkeys, Grizzly Bears, and Sea Lions.

If at this point you’re hungry, head to Tavern On the Green or The Loeb Boathouse. Both of these spots offer tables with picturesque views. If you choose The Loeb Boathouse, you can even go for a boat ride afterward in Central Park’s second largest body of water. If you’re too full from the delicious food at The Loeb Boathouse, you can get a classic venetian gondola tour with gondolier Andres Garcia.

Toward the middle of the park, in the area between 72nd and 84th Streets, you will come upon Strawberry Fields, a beautiful memorial dedicated to the late Beatle, John Lennon — musician and peace activist.

Right next to Strawberry Fields is The Dakota, Built in 1884, it is considered one of Manhattan’s most luxurious residential buildings and was home to John Lennon from 1973 until his death in the buildings archways in 1980.

Upper East Side/Yorksville

Blocks of elegant mansions and townhouses characterize the Upper East Side,

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once known as the Silk Stocking District because all the city’s wealthiest and most powerful people lived there, especially along Park, Madison, and Fifth Avenues. This neighborhood continues to be some of the most coveted real estate in Manhattan.

The area starting above 82nd Street and Fifth Avenue, going up to 105th Street is known as Museum Mile. This beautiful stretch along Central park is where you can find the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum, El Museo del Barrio, The Museum of the City of New York, The Jewish Museum, the Cooper Hewitt National Design Museum, The Frick Collection, and the Neue Galerie. Any of these fine museums and galleries would make a nice day trip.

Or perhaps you could see how many you can visit in a day!

On 83rd Street is the last remaining original luncheonette in New York City, the Lexington Candy Shop. This is a reminder of a bygone era where soda fountains and luncheonettes were staples in all New York City neighborhoods.

If you want more sweets, head downtown to Dylan’s Candy Bar between 61st Street. You’ll be sure to satisfy your sweet tooth on the vast selection of sweets and confectionery.

A few blocks over is Gracie

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Mansion, designated the official residence of the mayor of New York.

Although the mayor does not actually reside here, you can still visit it as this house is intended to serve as a “People’s house,” a title that at the time of conception set a standard for municipality and public access.

views. During the Revolutionary War, this park was an active fort and served as a strategic military lookout on the Hudson River. Not too far from the park is Jumel Mansion, and the Dyckman House, the last known vestiges from the 1700’s. Also in the Heights, children will delight to see Manhattan’s only lighthouse, the famous Little Red Lighthouse.

Washington Heights/Inwood

One last famous spot is the High Bridge, the oldest bridge in New York.

Opened in 1848 as part of the Croton Aqueduct bringing fresh water into the city, and later abandoned, it has been reopened as a pedestrian walkway over the East River.

Take a trip to the top of Manhattan, to Washington Heights and Inwood. This New York City neighborhood, lying right along the majestic George Washington Bridge was first settled by the Irish, later by European Jews escaping WWII, and finally by the Latino community. This makes it the best place for authentic Hispanic dining.

Start with a visit to Fort Tryon Park, home to The Cloisters, an art museum built from reconstructed medieval Chapels and Abbeys brought over from Europe. It is now part of The Metropolitan Museum of Art. Fort Tryon Park is the highest point in New York with incredible Hudson River

FINANCIAL DISTRICT

Above Washington Heights is Manhattan’s northernmost neighborhood, Inwood. Stretching up from Dyckman Street to the North end of Manhattan, its residential streets and river shoreline blend into the wilderness of Inwood Hill Park. Dramatic caves, valleys and ridges left as result of shifting glaciers can be found throughout Inwood Hill Park as well as the salt marshes located there, the last natural salt marsh in Manhattan.

THE APOLLO THEATER

Harlem

North of Central Park lies Harlem, a vibrant neighborhood long synonymous with African-American culture.

Today you can find charming brownstones and museums, such as the National Jazz Museum. This museum was conceived in 1995 and is dedicated to the preservation and celebration of Harlem’s jazz history. On top of this, Harlem has the legendary Apollo Theater, the concert hall that gave many famous artists their start. If this isn’t enough, you can get more jazz at Cotton Club, all the way on the west side on 125th St. If you’re looking for a different cuisine, stop by Minton’s, the birthplace of bebop, a type of Jazz.

During the 1940s, anyone who was a part of the world of jazz made their way to Minton’s. Artists like Duke Ellington, Louis Armstrong, and Ella Fitzgerald performed here. The food here is southern comfort style, with classics such as shrimp and grits among others.

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Harlem is just about the best place for delicious food, so other incredible restaurants include the popular Red Rooster, Sylvia’s Queen of Soul Food, Dinosaur Bar-B-Que, and Amy Ruth’s, a restaurant that boasts 14 different takes on chicken and waffles.

Financial District/Lower Manhattan

Nowadays, when one thinks about the Financial District, the first thing that comes to mind is the World Trade Center. This stunning and beautiful building commemorates the victims of 9/11. The National September 11 Memorial and Museum consists of its famous museum depicting the 9/11 events as well as a beautiful outdoor memorial featuring two enormous waterfalls and reflecting pools, each about an acre in size, set within the footprints of the original Twin Towers. The 9/11 Tribute Center is an additional stopping point for

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a more in depth look of 9/11 and its aftermath. For those that want to get an incredible view of Manhattan, One World Observatory is the place to go.

Other great views can be had from the river via Statue Cruises at the Statue of Liberty and at Ellis Island. Reached by boat from Battery Park, the statue stands tall and proud as a symbol of liberty while Ellis Island, once a gateway into the United States and at one point the biggest immigration inspection station, is now a museum. Find records of possible family members who passed through or just to appreciate the history that still exists at this place.

Back on land is Century 21, Westfield, and Brookfield Place. These complexes house shops, restaurants, and even an CHINATOWN

outdoor ice skating rink in the wintertime. One of the eatery highlights at Brookfield Place is Le District — a French-inspired marketplace. Across the street from Brookfield Place you can find the beautiful Irish Hunger Memorial. The memorial commemorates the Great Irish Famine and is a reminder “that hunger today is often the result of lack of access to land”.

Nearby on the west side, you will come upon the Museum of Jewish Heritage: A Living Memorial to the Holocaust. This museum is fully dedicated to the Holocaust and other events of WWII. Close by is The National Museum of the American Indian, a part of the Smithsonian Institution.

Right up the street from this memorial is the Charging Bull statue. This statue

took over two years to complete, and weighs over three and a half tons. It’s absolutely massive and makes for a terrific photo op.

Walk a few blocks north to view the New York Stock Exchange where brokers and traders are constantly buying and trading stocks. Across the street is Federal Hall National Memorial. Built in 1842 as the United States Custom House, on the site of the old Federal Hall it later served as a sub-Treasury building and is now operated by the National Park Service.

Imagine standing in the very spot where George Washington did! The Federal Reserve is two blocks up and has special Gold Tours of its vaults. Heading eastward is South Street Seaport. This Manhattan location features some of

the oldest architecture in downtown Manhattan, which includes renovated mercantile buildings, sailing ships, and many restaurants and shops. The streets in this area are predominantly cobblestone, which gives off a picturesque air when walking through.

At the most southern tip of Manhattan is the Staten Island Ferry. From here you can take a ferry to Staten Island for free (and it has great views of the Statue of Liberty!). The ferries depart in 30 minute intervals, so don’t worry if you just missed one.

Tribeca

Tribeca, which stands below Canal Street, has over many years become a coveted neighborhood full of art galleries and sophisticated restaurants. Known for its low crime rates and excellent public schools, Tribeca is a very residential area, home to many celebrities and wealthy New York City residents.

Tribeca is also home to some of the best architecture in New York City. You can find the “Jenga” building here (56 Leonard Street) or walk down Staple Street to see the skybridge.

This street is often debated as to how it got its name, but what isn’t debated is that it is one of New York’s smallest streets, running just two blocks.

Chinatown

New York’s Chinatown is located not far from Little Italy, with a booming Asian ethnicity. When in Chinatown, take a more scholastic approach to Chinese culture and visit

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LITTLE ITALY

the Museum of Chinese in America. This museum gives an in depth look into the lives of Chinese-Americans and the role that they played in American culture, as well as the history of their travel to the United States — all done through its various exhibits. It is a must see stop to get a thorough look into the culture that surrounds Chinatown.

A place more centric to Chinatown worth visiting would be Canal Street.

Chinatown’s Canal Street has the feel of an open-air bazaar. Here it is possible to bargain for products among an impossibly large assortment of goods.

If you get tired of shopping, make your way to The Original Chinatown Ice Cream Factory, a “family-owned business that adds a unique twist to one of America’s favorite desserts by introducing new Chinese-influenced flavors to his cold treat.”

Take a peek at Columbus Park. This historically significant park can be found in the heart of Chinatown

by Baxter St. and Bayard St. Parts of the park are filled with card players and masters of Mahjong and other parts of the park are filled with people practicing tai chi and kung fu.

Soho/ Little Italy

Little Italy borders Chinatown. This is another extremely cultural part of the city. Originally, Little Italy was a large 30-block section of the Lower East Side. Now it has condensed to a couple blocks centered around Mulberry Street.

Although Little Italy isn’t that big, it is packed with things to see and a unique atmosphere to immerse yourself in. If you’re a fan of architecture, you’ll enjoy the buildings in this area, most of them from the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

The best thing about Little Italy is the food culture.

Dozens of Italian restaurants are packed into this small portion of Manhattan.

If you’re in Little Italy in September, the Feast of San Gennaro is Little Italy’s biggest attraction. This is an 11-day festival that includes religious processions, colorful parades, free musical entertainment every day, a wide variety of ethnic food delicacies, charming restaurants and cafes and even a world-famous cannoli-eating competition.

Going down Broadway, you can find a multitude of shops with dozens of brands making their home in this area with big names such as Adidas, Victoria’s Secret, Uniqlo, and H&M to name a few. What a lot of people don’t know though, is that on many of the side streets parallel to Broadway, you can find other unique stores and shops to browse in — another part of Manhattan worth exploring. Additionally, there are over 40 galleries in Soho of which some are internationally acclaimed. Neighborhood desciption and details

Lower East Side The Lower East Side has a rich history dating back to the large number of immigrants who settled in the area back in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Today it’s a bustling neighborhood with an active foodie and nightlife scene, but you can still find traces of the working class community that initially shaped the area.

The Tenement Museum is one of the most popular attractions in the area. This museum can only be seen by guided tour, so make sure to book in advance.

The tour takes visitors through the apartment

buildings that give a firsthand view of how local residents lived. The museum is a recreation of apartments from five different decades in an actual tenement building built in 1863. Another museum — the New Museum provides visitors with more contemporary art through its rotating and changing collection.

Today, the Lower East Side is the neighborhood to go to try trending new restaurants, bars, galleries, and music venues. Catch a show at The Bowery Ballroom or The Mercury Lounge for good up-and-coming artists. If you’re looking for a truly awesome New York City experience, go to Katz’s Delicatessen, where you can find some of the best pastrami sandwiches in the world. Since its founding in 1888, this deli has found popularity among locals and tourists alike. If you do go, however, make sure you know what you want before you get to the counter. The line can often be out the door and the workers here are seasoned enough to not tolerate people who are taking their sweet time. Stop in at Russ & Daughters if you’re looking for and essential taste of New York in the form of smoked fish, bagels and caviar.

WEST VILLAGE

When it comes to Soho, which stands for South of Houston Street, the most common thing to do is shop.

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West Village

The West Village, located between 14th Street and West Houston Street and Sixth Avenue to the Hudson River, is known to be one of the centers of Manhattan that held some of history’s most influential social movements. The LGBTQ community and allies of the community in the area played a large role in the gay-rights movement. Examples of the neighborhoods dedication to inclusion, tolerance and the history of the area are the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual & Transgender Community Center and the beautiful NYC AIDS Memorial located in St. Vincent’s Triangle Park. The West Village is also home to Stonewall Inn, now a bar and recreational tavern. This was the location of Stonewall Riots in 1969, considered the single most important event leading to the gay liberation movement and the modern fight for gay and lesbian rights in the United States.

Another important park is Washington Square Park, which serves as a focal point for the West Village. It is frequently visited by tourists and photographers for its arch, which resembles Paris’ Arc de Triomphe on a much smaller scale. On many warm spring and summer days, you can find crowds of people enjoying the park for the performers, musicians and the beautiful fountain.

You can also find students from NYU lounging on the lawns between classes.

Head past the park to the area where MacDougal Street meets Bleecker Street and you’ll find yourself in a sea of music venues, comedy clubs, and restaurants. Here you can see performances at venues where artists such as Jimi Hendrix and Bob Dylan once performed and honed their craft. You can also stop at Caffe Reggio — the first U.S. cafe to serve a cappuccino in 1927. Down the block from Caffe Reggio is the Comedy Cellar,

where big-time comedians are known to stop by to try out new material. You’ll never know who you might run into in this area.

East Village

You can find the East Village east of the Bowery between Houston and 14th Streets, where Manhattan extends to the East River and the avenues start going by letters instead of numbers.

Despite the passing of time, the East Village still retains all of the grit that it was once known for.

The East Village is most known for its nightlife, bars, and food locations. St. Marks is a nightlife hub in itself with a few bars, restaurants and dessert locations lining 8th Street between 3rd and 2nd Avenues. The area is home to the the East Village theater STOMP as well as a popular Barcade. This is also where you’ll find La MaMa Experimental Theater Club, one of New York’s most respected experimen-

WEST VILLAGE

tal theater companies since the 1960s. When it comes to museums, the East Village is sparse, but the Museum of the American Gangster is a standalone museum worth taking a look into.

Right in the center of the East Village is Tompkins Square Park, a quaint and small park at the center of this eclectic neighborhood.

The park hosts performances that are as unique as the people that live in the East Village: the outdoor drag festival Wigstock, the Howl Festival commemorating Allen Ginsberg, and the Charlie Parker Jazz Festival.

HIGH LINE

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Although the East Village has a lot of great take out spots — Crif Dog!!!

— one of its best known places for drinks (and a lot of history) is McSorley’s Old Ale House. This oldtime pub was established in 1854 and serves only two drinks — either light or dark ale. Come here for the nostalgia it might produce from its ales and the sawdust found on the floors.

Meatpacking District

The small slice of Manhattan that runs from Gansevoort Street to West 14th Street and from Hudson Street to the Hudson River has grown quickly over the years into one of Manhattan’s most glamorous neighborhoods. Starting in the 1900s, the Meatpacking District was primarily comprised of hundreds of meatpacking plants but has evolved into an area of late-night hot spots, luxury hotels and clubs.

Take a stroll on the High Line which starts at the base of the neighborhood.

The High Line was built as a railroad to deliver products to the buildings that it passed by or through.

It has been reopened as a park and a green initiative in New York City. One of the more interesting facts: the Meatpacking District was the birthplace of the Oreo Cookie. Many of the original Nabisco factory buildings that produced this delicious treat have now been repurposed, but their original signs are still there.

Visit the Whitney Museum of American Art. This museum of modern and culturally charged art also has great outdoor views of the West Village and the Hudson River. If you’re looking

for other good views, go to the Top of the Standard.

Like the title implies, it is a lounge and club on top of the Standard Hotel.

Union Square/ Flatiron

Union Square has long been a center for political demonstrations, starting in 1861 with the Great Sumter Rally and later hosting labor union rallies, Occupy Wall Street protesters, and serving as a gathering point for those mourning the 9/11 attacks. Stretching from 14th Street to 17th Street and from Union Square West to Union Square East, the lush greenery of Union Square make it the perfect place for gatherings. On Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays year-round, this location hosts the Union Square Greenmarket.

Browse here for fresh produce, flowers and more, walking elbow-to-elbow with top chefs shopping for ingredients. Venture a little outside the park and make a stop at the Strand — a legendary bookstore that boasts 18 miles of new, used, and rare books.

Madison Square Park sits in the Flatiron District from 23rd Street to 26th Street between Madison Avenue and Fifth Avenue.

It is a perfect spot to stop for lunch on a nice day. If you happen to be in the city during Madison Square Eats, make sure to try some of the foods and drinks offered from the stands.

From the park, you can also get an amazing view of the Flatiron Building, the iconic triangular building completed in 1902. Right next to Madison Square Park you can take a trip through Eataly, which is an Italian marketplace that

has a variety of restaurants, cooking items, and bakeries.

The marketplace makes its home in the magnificent Toy Center Building, which was once headquarters to every famous toy manufacturer but now converted to residences and shopping.

Another great park in the Flatiron district is Gramercy Park — a park developed in the 1830s to resemble a London Square. If you do go to visit Gramercy Park, don’t expect to enter. The most you can do is look at it from the outside since you need a very special key to enter the park. There are around 400 keys currently in circulation, and the only people who have keys are residents of the Gramercy Park area.

The locks are changed on a yearly basis.

Chelsea

Chelsea can be found north of the West Village between 14th and 29th Streets. This part of Manhattan was once an industrial area, but has developed into a very coveted residential area.

With over 200 gallery spaces, Chelsea is the perfect place to wander through some of the best art found in New York City.

Right underneath the High Line, which starts in the Meatpacking District, on 15th Street you can find Chelsea Market, which is known as a food emporium of sorts. You can get anything from delicious lobster to milk from a milk bar. There’s a little bit of everything for everyone.

complex and a great view of the Hudson River. Chelsea Piers is most known for its golfing range, but the sports complex has an entire menu of activities to select from.

These include ice skating, basketball, and rock climbing, to name a few.

Located on 17th Street between 7th and 6th Ave. you can find the Rubin Museum of Art. This is a museum dedicated to the preservation of the art and cultures of the Himalayas, India, and neighboring regions. The museum is built in the shape of a tower, where each floors design gives the feel of climbing a mountain; the bottom floor is the base of the mountain and the top floor is at the peak, way above the clouds.

If you’re looking for a more exciting evening, and if there is a specific show or game that you’re interested in seeing, then Madison Square Garden is the place to be. It’s known as “The World’s Most Famous Arena” for a good reason and almost always has something going on. If you want a behind-the-scenes look at MSG, try the MSG All Access Tour. The tours run daily, every 30 minutes and will allow you to see MSG like you’ve never seen it before.

MADISON SQUARE GARDEN

A little farther up are the Chelsea Piers. These piers are home to a sporting

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PARTING SHOT

Where Will You be for New Year’s Eve 2020?

There’s nothing quite like being in Times Square for New Year’s Eve. The lights, the parties and of course, the famous ball drop. Head to Times Square this year early so you can snag the best Insta-worthy shots for social stardom. And don’t forget to bundle up!

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