It’s our privilege, it’s our power – moreover, it’s our obligation to vote! No matter what side of the ticket we’re on, no matter how disgusted, discouraged or disenfranchised we may feel, we have no excuses if we don’t flex our individual muscle and utilize this unique right that so many generations have fought so hard for. Mark your calendars For Tuesday November 8th. Do it!
When you’re looking to get away from the ceaseless noise and day-to-day overwhelming demands of everyday life, head to Stonecrop Gardens. Located in Cold Spring, NY, Stonecrop was originally the home of Anne and Frank Cabot who began creating the garden in the 1950’s on the grounds of what was then their home, opening it to the public in 1992. Perched on a dramatic setting in the Hudson Highlands, Stonecrop is 15 acres of breathtaking beauty. The collection of gardens and plantings will transport you to the English countryside of yesterday. Some of the highlights include a stunning glass conservatory, raised alpine stone beds, rock gardens and the most beautiful enclosed English-style flower garden bursting with color and arranged in a series of square and rectangle beds where plants are organized by color and shape. A vegetable garden anchors the center of the space and is watched over by a towering burlap scarecrow known as “Miss Gertrude Jekyll”.
Hours – Stonecrop is open Monday through Saturday from 10 am to 5 pm April through the end of October.
Stonecrop is located 15 minutes from the historic town of Cold Spring which is a wonderful town to stop in for lunch, shopping or antiquing.
If you’ve ever walked down East Second Street you have likely seen a series of three beautiful, gem-like shops known collectively as the John Derian Company. Step inside this store and you will feel as though you’ve left Manhattan and have been transported to a cozy shop on Paris’s Left Bank. This home-accessories shop is filled with Derian’s decoupage glassware (paperweights, trays, dishes, lamps etc.) , vintage silverware, vibrant tablecloths as well as napkins, moroccan lanterns, French and American antiques, not to mention accent furniture from around the world. Whew! If you get overwhelmed the patient staff are more than happy to steer you in the right direction. You can never go wrong buying a gift here both for yourself and your lucky friends. There is now a second location in the West Village in a charming 500 square foot space that once housed a former pet shop. I guess you could safely say that the John Derian Company is literally and figuratively the “cats meow”!
John Derian Company, 6 East 2nd Street, and 18 Christopher Street, NYC
BROOKLYN ART LIBRARY IS HOME TO THE SKETCHBOOK PROJECT – a compendium of over 40,000 artists’ sketchbooks from over 135 countries. The library serves as a reading room where you can get cozy and spend an afternoon enjoying artwork in a hands-on experience. Each sketchbook is individually barcoded and cataloged with searchable details, like where the book came from, the materials used, the artist name, tag words and oh-so-much-more. Anyone can contribute to The Sketchbook Project. Available for purchase at the library are all the tools and art supplies a doodler, parent, student, writer or artist requires to complete and decorate their personalized book. Contributions from first-time artists and children sit alongside the work of professional illustrators and painters. Once your book is filled, just ship it back and it becomes part of the project. Librarians add a barcode and catalogue each book with searchable details. Visitors to the library can then physically flip through the work, engaging with an artist’s visual diary from all corners of the world. Books have been used to memorialize friends or family members, as a time capsule, a travel journal and even a marriage proposal (which was actually hidden within a featured sketchbook.) Located in Williamsburg Brooklyn, the library encourages interaction between artist and those they reach through their work.
BROOKLYN ART LIBRARY, 28 Frost Street Brooklyn, NY http://brooklynartlibrary.com
Local artists named the neighborhood in the 1980’s, as they began flocking to this industrial relic. Blending a gritty industrial past with urban chic: Belgian block streets, old train rails and former warehouses. DUMBO is bustling with the creative vibrancy of artists, theaters, restaurants and two waterfront parks. Brooklyn’s Dumbo amazes with breathtaking views of the Manhattan skyline. This small walkable neighborhood is fun to explore by foot and no matter where you wander, your bound to stumble upon amazing places to eat, shop and explore.
Whether you’re the city born, just “passing through” or an enthralled tourist, no time spent in our fair city would be truly complete with out a stroll across the Brooklyn Bridge. Built in 1883, this grande dame reaches majestically over New York City’s East River, linking the two boroughs of Manhattan and Brooklyn. More than 12,000 vehicles, 4,000 pedestrians and 3,100 bicyclists cross it every day. It has inspired the works of such notable artists as Georgia O’Keefe and Andy Warhol, the playwright Arthur Miller, poet Jack Kerouac, musician Wyclef Jean and has featured rolls in time-honored films like “Moonstruck” and Woody Allen’s “Manhattan”. On any given day you’ll exchange pleasantries with fellow footmen from around the globe, pay homage to the possibilities of endless love when viewing the “love locks” or offer congratulatory wishes to those fearless newlyweds taking their first official stroll straight from taking the plunge at City Hall. It’s all there and it’s free. Go take a hike!
Starting in the 1990’s, the tradition of affixing engraved locks to bridges has been seen all around the world from Paris’s Pont des Arts, to Rome’s Pont Milvio, to the Brooklyn Bridge. Couples secure their locks then throw the keys into the East River often hitting cars below. The Brooklyn Bridge is a beloved National Historic Landmark and must not be damaged or altered. Because of this iconic status, The New York City of Transportation has started cracking down on these locks of love due to safety concerns. So far the city has removed more than 6,000 locks of love.
No visit to Dumbo would be complete without a spin on Jane’s Carousel, a 1922 merry-go-round that was moved from Ohio completely restored. It’s 48 beautiful horses prance near the East River year-round. Located in the Brooklyn Bridge Park, Jane’s Carousel is housed in a gorgeous glass pavilion.
You will be delighted in DUMBO’s eclectic stores, many of which are housed in huge lofty spaces. A couple of my favorites are:
~ SHIBUI Japanese Antiques, 38 Washington Street. Reflecting the aesthetic of its namesake (meaning simple, subtle and unobtrusive beauty) SHIBUI offers a treasure trove of unique Japanese ceramics, textiles, cabinetry and folk art items.
~ The FEED Shop & Cafe, 55 Water Street. Lauren Bush Lauren has just opened FEED’s first brick-and-mortar shop – and cafe. Alongside her philanthropic tote bags and accessories you will find beautifully curated, socially conscious items. And like FEED bags, everything purchased helps children in need.
~ BLACKBARN, 20 John Street. BLACKBARN shop is a home emporium of distinctive, sophisticated designs from all over the world. This stunning 3,000 square ft space is filled with curiosities, art, furniture and home goods
~ Powerhouse Arena Books, 28 Adam’s Street. Support the independent bookstore, this bright and roomy spot that functions as a bookstore focused on art, events and exhibitions. It also has a terrific kids section.
~ Trunk, 68 Jay Street. Clothing, jewelry, bags, wallets and furniture, all locally designed and manufactured, making a bold statement that “style can be created and found locally”.
~ Modern Anthology, 68 Jay Street. Male-friendly furniture and home accessories, casual clothing and traditional men’s accessories. For your favorite hipster you will find “beard oil” infused with scents of eucalyptus, cedar wood and pine.
~ Half Pint Citizens, 41 Washington Street. Affordable shop offering unique clothing, eco-friendly products, gear & toys for babies and kids.
Photography to painting, street art to sculpture: DUMBO’s galleries bring the work of local, national and international artists to the Brooklyn waterfront.
~ Klompching Gallery – 89 Water St. Wed.-Sat. 11-6
~ United Photo Industries – 16 Main St. Tues.-Sat. 11-6
~ Minus Space – 16 Main St. Wed.-Sat. 11-5
~ Masters Projects – 91 Water St. Wed.-Sat. 11-6
~ Smack Mellon – 92 Plymouth St. Wed.-Sun. 11-6
First Thursday Gallery Walk, 6-9pm – The First Thursday of every month galleries of DUMBO stay open late, hosting special events and receptions.
Stop in and visit the artists at LAND Gallery, 67 Front St. Land Studio and Gallery is a unique nonprofit day habilitation program that teaches life skills through the modality of art. LAND (League Artists Natural Design) was founded in 2005 and serves as both studio and gallery for 16 adult artists with developmental disabilities. At LAND, artist develop their skills in a nurturing environment, while their work is marketed to the community in a vibrant and inclusive manner. LAND artist work with painters, sculptors, fiber artists, animators, designers and others who value creative collaboration.
~ The River Cafe, One Water St. Celebrate something special at one of New York’s most unique locations. Nestled under the Brooklyn Bridge offering sweeping views of the New York skyline and the Statue of Liberty, this elegant restaurant has become a favorite destination for New Yorkers and visitors from around the world.
~It’s no secret that DUMBO is the pizza capital of New York, with the highest slice-to-cobblestone ratio of anywhere in the city. Try a five pie tour: Grimaldi’s, Juliana’s, Ignazio, Front Street Pizza and Love & Dough.
~ Atrium Dumbo, 15 Main St. Atrium offers a fresh, market-driven menu that draws influence from Chef Laurent Kalkotour’s upbringing in the South of France.
~ Vinegar Hill, 72 Hudson Ave. A more relaxed restaurant in a rustic part of the Brooklyn waterfront.
~ Superfine, 126 Front St. Seasonal Mediterranean cuisine, organic meats and fresh seafood. Full bar and occasional live music and pool table.
~ Olympia Wine Bar, 54 Jay St. Wine, beer, cocktails and small plates are offered.
~ 7 Old Fulton, 7 Old Fulton St. Italian, French, Spanish and American Fare under the Brooklyn Bridge.
~ Gran Electrica, 5 Front St. Authentic seasonal Mexican restaurant known for their hand pressed tortillas.
~ Miso Sushi, 40 Main St. Eat in or take out sushi.
No visit to DUMBO would be complete without trying a triple scoop chocolate chip cone from the Brooklyn Ice Cream Factory-among the City’s best. The sauces for their sundaes , such as butterscotch and hot fudge, are prepared by the pastry chef at the nearby River Cafe. A couple of other nearby musts to quench your sweet tooth are:
~ Jacques Torres, 66 Water St. This is the original shop where you can buy all types of delicious chocolate including the thickest, richest hot chocolate in town.
~ One Girl Cookies, 33 Main St. The place to go for mini cookies, whoopee pies and cupcakes.
~ Almondine Bakery, 85 Water Street. All the baking is done on the premises by owner and chef Herve Poussot (formerly of Payard and Le Bernadine) croissants, tarts and macaroons are their specialty.
For 35 years St. Ann’s Warehouse has been bringing top-notch theater to Brooklyn in a beautifully restored tobacco warehouse on Water Street right next to the Brooklyn Bridge. Check out their calendar for upcoming events.
Docked beneath the Brooklyn Bridge, Bargemusic is a floating chamber-music venue, formerly an old coffee barge converted into a music space with an incredible view of the New York skyline. Bargemusic is committed to attracting local audiences and enhancing the cultural life of New York by offering more than 200 performances year-round.
One of the top tourist destinations in the nation, Charleston, is a crown jewel of the American South. Along with its rich and storied history dating back to 1670, this Southern city is home to the country’s oldest gardens and newest culinary trends. A fascinating mix of quaint cobblestone streets nestled between classical architecture, high-class restaurants and low country cuisine, secret alleyways, flickering gas lanterns and the clip-clop of horse drawn carriages makes Charleston one of my favorite weekend getaways. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, culinary aficionado, beach lover, history buff, architectural fan, or cultural lover, Charleston has it all!
For where to stay in Charleston, options run the gamut from traditional to contemporary, grand to bohemian. Many historic homes have been converted into inns and B&B’s equipped with modern amenities, giving you a unique blend of edgy-urban-meets-southern-comfort. A couple of my favorites are:
~ZERO GEORGE, O George Street, Zero George is made up of five historic homes. The buildings all have the charm of old Charleston, but the rooms themselves feel modern, with a neutral color scheme, big bright bathrooms and a veranda for looking out onto the courtyard. The original 1804 carriage house is where you will find the lobby and a beautiful restaurant with an enticing menu.
~THE VENDUE, 19 Vendue Range, The Vendue is a combination of two unique hotels located across the street from one another. Both buildings originally were warehouses dating back to the 1780’s. No two rooms are alike and each is decorated with period reproduction furnishings or true antiques. The Vendue is the first and only hotel dedicated to the arts in Charleston, over 300 pieces of original art have been installed throughout the hotel.
~WENTWORTH MANSION, 149 Wentworth Street, Be completely transported back to the old South during your stay at Wentworth Mansion. This 126 year old property makes beautiful use of its historical roots; such as locating the spa in what used to be the stables and the famed Circa 1886 restaurant in the former carriage house overlooking the gardens. Most of the rooms come complete with original fireplaces and porches. Don’t leave your pets behind, they’re welcome at the Wentworth.
~THE RESTORATION, 75 Wentworth Street, A boutique hotel featuring a coffee bar, spa, Assouline library, rooftop bar and pool and a great retail boutique. It’s a relaxed, refined, hip hotel.
~THE GRAND BOHEMIAN, 55 Wentworth Street If your looking for a larger more traditional hotel this is a good option. The Grand Bohemian is part of the Marriott chain. It has larger rooms, modern facilities and is close to City Market.
I love discovering all of the unique one-of-a-kind shops that Charleston has to offer. Start your shopping adventures on King Street which has been the commercial heart of Charleston for centuries, and today it’s as vibrant as ever.
~CANDLEFISH, 71 Wentworth Street, I love walking into this candle store not only because it is visually beautiful, but with a fragrance library of over 100 different candle scents it smells divine. They also offer candle making workshops and have a wonderful curated collection of unique gifts and accessories.
~BLUE BICYLE BOOKS, 420 King Street, This neighborhood book store houses a collection of new and pre-loved books spanning all genres in addition to a whole section devoted to the City of Charleston itself. This shop will make you wish everyday was a rainy one so you would have an excuse to spend hours browsing from room to room.
~THE COMMONS, 701 East Bay Street, A thoughtful collection of stunning home goods such as wooden bowls, hand-thrown ceramics and glassware all made in America.
~CROGHAN’S JEWEL BOX, 308 King Street, Over 100 years old, this family run jewelry store features fine jewels, estate treasures and antiques.
~SHIRTINI, 192 King Street, A curated collection of menswear inspired Oxford-style shirts for women. Fantastic quality and fit.
~ALEXANDRA FRENCH ANTIQUES, 156 King Street, An amazing antique shop filled with rare, unusual and the most charming antiques.
This town offers a breadth of restaurants that truly make it a premier dining destination. In addition to the traditional Southern cuisine, Charleston boasts a number of chef- driven places, from a boisterous oyster bar to an Asian restaurant housed in a converted gas station.
~LEON’S , 698 King Street, Looking for some real southern food? Head to Leons. Located in a converted auto body shop, this restaurant dishes up classic fried chicken sandwiches, hush puppies, delicious salads and of course, oysters. No reservations here; it’s first come, first served.
~THE ORDINARY, 544 King Street, A Southern seafood hall and oyster bar located in an old bank. Good food, good drinks and the best oyster shooters around. This restaurant is anything but ordinary!
~THE MACINTOSH, 479 King Street, A modern American menu in a casual tavern-like setting, with an open kitchen in the back. Try the bottomless Mimosa brunch or the Bacon Happy Hour which are both local favorites.
~CANNON GREEN, 103 Spring Street A big bright beautiful restaurant serving local, seasonal and fresh fare with a little bit of a mediterranean influence. A great spot for brunch.
~HUSK, 76 Queen Street, “If it doesn’t come from the South, it’s not coming through the door” says James Beard Award-winning Chef Sean Brock. Every ingredient used comes from area farms or their own garden.
~XIAO BAO BISCUIT, 224 Rutledge Ave. A hip hangout in a converted gas station. This restaurant serves up what the owners call Asian soul food. Authentic dishes from Vietnam, China, Thailand Korea and Japan.
There is so much more to see and do in Charleston. Art galleries are everywhere and more often than not you’ll want to take a peek inside. The Gibbs Museum of Art recently went through a five year renovation. This Beaux-Arts building is strikingly modern with open studios and uncluttered galleries housing over 10, 000 works that tell the story of American art. Take an early morning walk along The Battery, the Southern tip of Charleston’s peninsula. This lovely spot along the waterfront is where the majority of Charleston’s grandest homes are located. To see more beautiful homes head to Rainbow Row, the biggest grouping of Georgian row homes in the US and the most colorful residences you’ll ever see. Visit the Pineapple Fountain in Waterfront Park; the Pineapple is a common motif in Charleston representing Southern hospitality. Spend an afternoon at Boone Hall “Americas most photographed plantation” just a quick ride outside of the city, where you will be wowed by its authentic charm and stunning beauty. For all you movie buffs, this is where The Notebook was filmed. Take a tour of Fort Sumter and hear the history of where the American Civil war began. Hop aboard a horse drawn carriage, grab a drink on the rooftop of The Vendue with its sweeping views of the city, or take a culinary tour; but most of all walk and explore all the beauty the city has to offer and get completely lost among the hidden alleyways and historic homes.
Looking to escape the concrete jungle and reconnect with nature? How about a quick getaway that will make you feel like you’re a million miles away? Hop on an eight minute ferry ride from downtown Manhattan to Governors Island and check into “Glamping Camp”. Collective Retreats, the company known for creating “campsites” in unexpected places such as Vail, Sonoma, Yellowstone and the heart of Texas Hill Country, brings its newest evolution to the city that never sleeps – although sleep you will in this extraordinarily unique setting.
There are two types of luxury tents available: (10) “Summit Tents” (from $500, double occupancy, breakfast included) contain king beds or two singles and private bathrooms and (27) “Journey Tents” (from $150 double occupancy) offer a queen bed or two singles and shared bathroom facilities. We stayed in one of the Summit Tents that was beautifully appointed with fur throws, wool blankets high thread count sheets , binoculars, a deck of cards, vintage books, electricity, WI-FI and a big bathroom with a rain-style shower and plush Turkish towels.
The tents encircle Collectives Three Peak Lodge Restaurant which is also where you check in or relax in one of the many lounge chairs on the sprawling lawn with views of the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island and the Manhattan skyline. There are three dinner options: a la carte menu, prix fixe or for a more authentic experience, BBQ-in-a-box which you cook yourself on one of the grills arranged around the lawn perimeter. The Governors Island Farm supplies much of the produce. Be forewarned: they don’t have their liquor license yet so you may want to make a stop at Island Oyster for a glass of rosé. We ate our dinner against the backdrop of the setting sun in all its fuchsia-toned glory. As if on cue, Lady Liberty then lit the night sky as did the hundreds of fireflies. Such a magical sight! After dinner we headed over to a large campfire where guests of all ages and backgrounds were picking up their s’mores kits and popping marshmallows on sticks ready for the roast.
As the sun rose over the city the next morning, we awoke to the sound of seagulls flying overhead while the Staten Island Ferry transported the early commuters to Manhattan. Be sure to take advantage of the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity of roaming the island starting at 7 am, before the first ferries arrive at 10 am transporting hordes of eager visitors to the island. Grab your book and head over to Hammock Grove, climb to the top of Hill Park (situated 70 feet above the island at some points) with extraordinary 360-degree panoramic views of the New York Harbor or wander the island and explore the public art throughout the park. It’s all gloriously breathtaking!
How to get there: Governors Island is easily accessible by ferry every day of the week from the Battery Maritime Building (10 South Street in Lower Manhattan). For ferry schedule go to GOVISLAND.COM
Trying to describe the singular sensation that’s Central Park is like trying to describe well, life itself (especially for us city dwellers) ! Each one of the park’s 843 acres is a most coveted haven from the madness of Manhattan, containing a treasure trove of art, entertainment, culinary delights, people watching and nature. It’s what separates our city – both literally and figuratively – from any other public space in the world. No visit to the Big Apple would be complete without a long, leisurely stroll through this 156 year old gem that is Central Park – truly New York’s jewel in the crown.
Where to begin suggestions for the far-too-many spots that capture the spirit, sights and sounds of this magical wonderland? Aaaagh. There are far too many to numerate so herewith are a few of my all-time favorites.
The next time you’re sitting, strolling or racing through the Park, take a moment to read the plaques that are affixed to each of the over 9,000 benches scattered throughout the expansive acreage. They are part of the Adopt-A-Bench program established in 1986 to maintain the park seating and their surrounding landscapes. Each plaque describes a personal, poignant moment in time, from marriage proposals “After she said yes, they walked through Central Park”, anniversaries “40 wonderful years together and more to come”, tributes to our 4-legged friends “To Maja & Bessie: 2 incredible ladies. Thank you for your kindness, friendship and love”, as well as honoring our 2-legged giants “In memory of Mike Nichols whose path led from the Upper West Side to the Delacorte Theatre and beyond.”
This beautiful “Imagine” memorial located in Strawberry Fields (so named for the Beatles song “Strawberry Fields Forever”), was dedicated on October 1985 on what would have been John Lennon’s 45th birthday. The space is located directly across the street from The Dakota apartment building on West 72nd Street, the building where Lennon lived with his wife Yoko Ono, before his untimely death. As one of the most popular sights in the park, visitors from around the world leave flowers, stuffed animals and photos of their beloved song man. A bird’s eye view of Strawberry Fields shows it is shaped like a tear drop, a design request from Lennon’s widow who worked with the park’s landscape architect. The area is a living testament to the intense love that John had for this city – and it for him.
The Bethesda Fountain is one of the largest fountains in New York and one of the most well known in the world. Located mid-park at 72nd St.,
this neoclassical sculpture also known as the “Angel of the Waters” features an eight foot bronze angel who stands above four small cherubs representing health, purity, temperance and peace. The angel carries a lily in one hand, while the other hand is outstretched, delivering a blessing on the water pouring from around her feet.
Hans Christian Anderson, erected in 1956 to commemorate the author’s 150th birthday, the large bronze statue depicts Anderson seated upon a bench, reading from his beloved children’s tale, The Ugly Duckling. For the past 60 years generations of children have gathered around the foot of this statue every Saturday morning from 11am-12pm, rain or shine throughout the summer months, listening to storytellers from the Hans Christian Anderson Storytelling Center read passages from Anderson’s heartwarming tales including The Little Mermaid, Thumbelina and The Little Match Girl.
Alice In Wonderland, “Alice” stands eleven feet tall, surrounded by the Mad Hatter, the White Rabbit and a few of her tea party friends. Unlike most sculptures, children are encouraged to climb, touch and crawl all over the beautifully bronzed sculpture so much so that much of the iconic statue’s exterior polish has been worn down to a smooth finish, thanks to generations of admiring “climbers” of all ages.
“Balto,” the real-life hero sled dog, has stood his guard with great nobility from high atop his boulder since 1925. Legend has it that back then, in the town of Nome, Alaska, there was a horrific outbreak of diphtheria. Balto battled a blinding blizzard and traveled 674 miles to deliver medicine, thus saving the lives of literally thousands of desperate citizens. Located near The Tisch Children’s Zoo, beloved Balto stands ready to offer complementary rides on his bronzed back and accept hugs from his admiring fans.
Don’t leave the park without taking a ride on the famous carousel located at 64th Street in the middle of the park. Taking a ride on one of the 58 beautifully hand-carved horses is a thrill no matter your age. The carousel has an interesting history: from 1871 to 1924 it was powered by a real four-legged animal! The wooden horses that riders sat on were actually set in motion by a live mule walking on a treadmill in an underground pit. The current carousel (the fourth incarnation from the original and one of the largest in the country) was discovered by the Parks Department, abandoned in an old trolley terminal in Coney Island. Further proof that one person’s trash is another person’s treasure!
Shakespeare’s Garden, located on the West Side of the park and 79th Street, covers four acres of plants that change according to the season so that there is something in bloom 365 days of the year. Every flower, herb, plant and shrub in the garden has been meticulously planned and planted to coincide with Shakespeare’s works. For example there is a grouping of rosemary with pansies, a nod to a verse which the character Ophelia alludes to in “Hamlet.” Thistle, grown abundantly throughout the property is mentioned in “Much Ado About Nothing” and there is even a white mulberry tree standing in the garden, said to have been grown from a graft of a tree planted by Shakespeare himself. Bronze plaques with corresponding quotations from Shakespeare’s plays are placed sporadically along the path. It’s the perfect little quiet locale to meditate, pray or just let those sonnets fly!
Who needs the expense, airport hassle and jet lag of an overseas adventure when you have a place like this to go to right in your own back yard?! You can literally row, walk or horse and carriage your way over to The Boathouse – truly one of my favorite places in all of New York. The site of numerous iconic movies (When Harry Met Sally, 27 Dresses, Enchanted just to name a few) with its lakeside setting in the heart of the Park, this establishment has it all.
Originally built in 1873, The Boathouse is a haven for romantics and nature lovers alike. Indulge in a sumptuous meal, grab an evening cocktail or jump start your day with a cup of “Joe” on the go at the Express Cafe, all the while gazing upon the hills and dales of Central Park.
…as long as you’re dropping anchor at The Loeb Boathouse, why not indulge in the spirit of your environs?
There is a fleet of 100 rowboats available for rent or, if it’s a taste of Venice Italy you’re after, you should book the classic gondola tour. I’d bet a few cannolis that if the moon and stars align you might just get the gondolier (resplendent in traditional straw hat and striped t-shirt) to serenade you. Amore!
One of the hidden wonders of Central Park is the Conservatory Garden at Fifth Ave. and 105th Street. A secluded six-acre oasis, just a few steps down from one of the city’s busiest thoroughfares. It is the only formal garden found in Central Park. The quiet calm atmosphere of the Garden free from runners and cyclists make it an ideal spot for weddings and relaxing afternoon walks. The Garden is divided into three different sections each representing its’ own specific style: the north (French Garden), central (Italian Garden) and south (English Garden).
There is only one straight line walkway in all of Central Park and it’s located on The Mall. This quarter-mile stretch also happens to be the parks’ widest pedestrian way, lined with some of the largest and last remaining American Elms in North America. The southern end of The Mall is called Literary Walk, so named for the statues of writers William Shakespeare, Robert Burns and Sir Walter Scott. There is also a beautiful depiction of Christopher Columbus, who, although seemingly a bit of an odd man out in this pack of literary figures, was equally a leader and bold thinker of his time.
If you ever lose your sense of direction in the park, head to the nearest lamp post or “luminaries” as they are called. There are 1,600 throughout the park and each one can tell you your whereabouts. On the post you will see four numbers. The first two digits tell you the nearest street and the second set of numbers will tell you whether you are on the east or west side. Even numbers mean east, odd numbers west. No compasses (or bread crumbs a’la Hansel and Gretel when lost in the forest) needed to retrace your steps! Just look to the lamps. Who knew?!!!
For years, whether en route to the Wollman Skating Rink from my west side abode or simply crossing the expanse of Central Park for some east side shopping, I would ponder the existence of an isolated, fenced-in piece of land looming overhead atop the formidable boulders in the park’s southeast corner, teaming with a symphonic cacophany of bird songs. It turns out to be the newly restored and reopened 4 acre Hallett Nature Sanctuary – one of the park’s three woodlands.
When you’re in need of an escape “far from the maddening crowd”. This magnificently serene oasis should fit the bill. Note: there are specific day/hours of operation so be sure to check out the Central Park website beforehand.
Planning on packing a picnic to hear the Philharmonic perform in the Park or have aspirations of popping the big question in a more unique and personalized fashion, then you should check out Perfect Picnic NYC’s coterie of themes, european-style artisanal fare and comprehensive service. You pick your location and they do the rest. This is not the ‘ole marshmallow and hot dog roasting picnic paradigm from back in the day; rather this is all about taking time to smell the rose’ (flowers and wine) as it were!
Here’s a little fact I’ll bet you die hard New York natives, newly arrived and tourists alike didn’t know. That grassy knoll which nestles just beyond the Central Park entrance on East 72nd Street is known as “Pilgrim Hill”, in homage to the brazenly bronze statue of a Pilgrim that crowns its crest. Sculpted by John Quincy Adams Ward, “The Pilgrim” was gifted to Central Park by the New England Society in 1885. As an aside, it just so happens that this stoic bronzed gent also watches over what us insiders know to be one of the park’s primo sledding locales in winter as well as a popular picnicking spot in the warmer months. I’d like to think that such joyful sights bring an inward smile to our man as he continues to stand guard throughout the decades.
More than 50 multicolored murals have transformed a swath of buildings into a vast outdoor gallery known as the BUSHWICK COLLECTIVE. The accidental curator of the Collective is Joseph Ficalora, a native of this Brooklyn town. Up until the last fifteen years, Bushwick had been an area of high crime and blight. In fact, it was the devastating murder of Joseph’s father back in 1991 that prompted his son to take positive action and initiative.
In 2013 Joseph decided the best way to heal from this tragedy and support his still-beloved neighborhood was through a transformative Graffiti and Street Art project. Once he started googling key words related to this art form, his role as a steward of outdoor art began. He reached out to artist from around the globe, asking them to contribute their talents to the canvases that are the industrial and residential buildings of Bushwick. There are few rules: nothing offensive to children, women and the local buisnesses. Themes are varied and range from cartoon figures, to stark black and white imagery to subtle and not so subtle takes on the current social and political situation. None of the street art is permanent and stays around for 12 months or so at the most. It is truly a wonder to behold!
The area is now wonderfully diverse and home to some great eateries so do support local commerce while your in town. Two of my favorite spots to grab a bite are:
~ ROBERTA’S PIZZA, 261 Moore Street http://robertaspizza.com
~SEA WOLF, 19 Wycoff Ave. http://seawolfbk.com
HOW TO GET TO THE BUSHWICK COLLECTIVE: Take the “L” train to the Jefferson ave. stop. As soon as you get out of the subway you will see the murals. I walk one block to Troutman and Wycoff Streets and start meandering from there.