East Village and NYU area

I just LOVE the East Village, still, for its cafes and restaurants...also wonderful and nearby are the cafes on Macdougal Street, walkable from the East Village, and Washington Square...
This is one of the first places I came to in NYC and while I don't want to go down there all the time I still do love it. There is so much to do here, so much to see...nice to go in and out of the streets from about 12th on down to Houston (which divides 1st Street from named streets on the Lower East Side...).

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More Columbia U./ CUNY restaurants and bars

Just a quickie for my nieces staying near Columbia...a list of restaurants and bars missing from my prior post. You can get this list at Time Out New York (search on Columbia U and CUNY area) * means recommended:
*Amsterdam Restaurant and Tapas Lounge 11am–1am1207 Amsterdam Ave, between 119th and 120th Sts. - lots going on here, outside and inside...right on Amsterdam and 120th. .

*Dinosaur Bar-B-Que Mon–Thu 11:30am–11pm 646 W 131st St, between Broadway and Riverside Dr-young crowd, fun, loud...LIVE MUSIC every night (here is the calendar). Cute decor (" Weathered gas-station signage and barbershop mirrors constitute the artfully gritty decor at this honky-tonk saloon")

Sezz MediMon–Wed, Sun 11:30am–4pm, 5–11pm; Thu–Sat 11:30am– 4pm, 5pm–midnight 1260 Amsterdam Ave, at 122nd St. Brick oven PIZZA.

Massawa Daily 11:30am–11:30pm1239 Amsterdam Ave, at 121st St. Ethiopian, for something new and different.

*Pinkberry 2873 Broadway, between 111th and 112th Sts, FROZEN YOGURT. Yummy, tangy taste. I only have tasted the original flavor.

Caffé Swish Mon–Thu, Sun 11am–11:30pm; Fri, Sat 11am–1am 2953–55 Broadway, between 115th and 116th Sts--ASIAN/ FUSION

Transportation to and from LGA and JFK- a prejudicial compilation

I've suffered through various permutations of transportation to and from JFK and LaGuardia (LGA). I've learned, first of all, to book at LGA instead of JFK whenever possible (and it is not always possible). It is much closer and the taxi cost, as well as nerve-factor due to the shorter ride, is less with LGA.
Following is a quite prejudicial but as -comprehensive- as- I -can- think- of rundown of airport transport options (oh by the way--NEVER accept an offer from a solicitor. Some may be legit but honestly it is not worth finding out):
Super Shuttle. Serves LaGuardia and JFK:
$23 from JFK- $15 from Laguardia (plus an appropriate tip for the driver of a few bucks).
Book online or call 800-258-3826. Pros-the cost. Cons-(to the airport at least-from is probably MUCH better) they tell you when they will pick you up based on the time your flight leaves--and it is much earlier than if you were to take a cab, because they have to drive around and pick up other passengers. Woe to you if you are the first pickup. It can take a half hour or more to pick up other passengers, and drivers WILL wait if someone is late, I once waited about 15 minutes for a woman to come down. Well, at least it felt like 15 minutes. That was the last time I took the SuperShuttle. However if you are really counting pennies and the extra 20 or so dollars you will save as opposed to a taxi and tip count, then this is a safe bet. Never took it FROM the airports but I assume you meet somewhere down by the baggage area.
Taxi: LaGuardia and JFK: $ca. 30 plus 20% tip from LGA (they will tack on an extra $4 for the bridge fare they paid--they are not ripping you off). $45 set fare from JFK plus %20 tip.
Again never accept a solicitor's offer of finding a taxi for you. Go to the official stand. You will know it is official by the long line ;). No, it is not always that long. But often is. Anyway it moves fairly fast. Go to the official stand, wait in line and the dispatcher will point out the taxi to you when you move to the front. I think from JFK it is now a standard $45 trip...no meter is in use, they charge $45 to anywhere in Manhattan (I think).
Limo/ Car Service: $33 and $48, plus tip. The famous/ ubiquitous Carmel Limo (212-666-6666) and Family Taxi (212-777-7777) are the 2 car services I have used. The pros: a set fee to JFK ($48) and LGA ($33). More knowledgeable drivers in terms of shortcuts and traffic patterns. More comfortable cars with AC. a guaranteed pickup. The cons: None, really.Except the cars have that weird per-fumy smell that I think comes from those tree-shaped air fresheners, which I personally think should be banned by the EPA.
AirTrain from JFK. $7 (5 for train and $2 for subway). This takes about an hour and 15 min. to and from Manhattan. I hate to mention this as I dislike the AirTrain, because it doesn't arrive at any reasonable location. It leaves you off at the A train station in Howard Beach. Gah! II don't even know if that is in Queens or Brooklyn. Then you have to take the A train home. Vice versa for getting to JFK...take the A subway to Airtrain and then JFK. Its one advantage, other than price, (which yes, is a significant advantage) is you can avoid traffic. This is a big plus if you arrive or leave during rush hour. For the upper west side I usually take the 1 to 59th and then the A. Or take the A from 72nd Street, etc. I have taken this and it was pretty painless (coming home and going to Denver at daytime hours). Then I have taken this around 12AM and never forgotten the interminable ride home.
M60: This bus goes to and from LGA and stops at 121st and Amsterdam. For the 2.25 bus ride fare you can get to and from LGA if you are willing to drag your luggage on the bus. wedge it somewhere, and endure the ride. Actually I have been pretty fine with this in the past but sometimes it can take a loong time and it is crowded and noisy. Only if you really do not want to pay the $35 taxi fare. But it does work.

Boat Basin Cafe on 79th and Hudson...

While I am not a super big fan of the Boat Basin Cafe anymore (I think I have been "aged out": it has gotten more like a frat party on Friday and Sat. night and seems more geared towards singles and younger people than I...), it is a real party atmosphere and great for mingling and hanging out. They have a Happy Hour M-F 4-7PM--drinks $2 off. It is really a scene here. And fun to be outdoors, I have to say.
Here's the rundown from their website.

The Boat Basin Café is a casual outdoor restaurant, arranged in three sections & located in Riverside Park at the end of 79th Street on the Hudson River. There is an open air patio that overlooks the Marina and the Hudson River with breathtaking views of the sunsets over New Jersey. The covered Rotunda section in the middle of the restaurant has limestone arches overlooking the open air patio. All BBQ Grill parties are held underneath this covered area. The last section is our circular open air area where most of our bar parties are held, weather permitting.

Hours of Operation:

Monday through Wednesday – 12 noon till 11:p.m.

Thursday and Friday - 12 noon till 11:30 p.m.

Saturday 11 am till 11:30 p.m.

Sunday 11am till 10 p.m.

(All Weather Permitting)

(See Home Page for Spring and Fall Hours of operation)

GMA Concert Series now in Central Park

I was interested to read that Good Morning America is now filming its summer concert series in Central Park at Rumsey Playfield...(enter at 5th and 69th and it is right there...or walk east across at 72nd at Central Park West....). While of course these are limited 'concerts" (generally 3 songs, I think) they do tend to get excellent artists. And of course it is free..first come first served, and they recommend you be there at 6AM (when the park opens). "Concerts" start around 8:30AM.
Here are the remaining concerts for August:
Friday, Aug. 7 -- David Cook, Kris Allen and Adam Lambert
Friday, Aug. 14 -- Kenny Chesney
Friday, Aug. 21 -- Reba McEntire

Atlantic City-New Train Service for $29

Atlantic City is definitely one of those places that have to be seen to be believed. I've been there once and it was quite surreal. I'm not a gambler (not yet anyway) but this is a kitschy experience even if you don't gamble--or perhaps only if you don't gamble (if you do you probably take it very seriously).
There's a new direct train service--Aces Train--that leaves Friday, Sat. and Sunday from Penn Station at 34th St. and arrives in Atlantic City 2 hours and 40 minutes later.
The site advertises coach tickets for $29-69--not sure what the difference is--are you sitting on someone's lap for the $29 fee? But it looks a bit more comfy than the free bus services to Atlantic City. Which I have never taken.
Check out the Atlantic City official website for stuff to do here other than gamble--the boardwalk is a hoot and it is a real experience.

Jones Beach -The Ocean, and Everything Else

Posting about the concerts at Jones Beach in Long Island reminded me that while I haven't been there in awhile--and, frankly, I prefer the New Jersey Shore (more on that later) as I like a quiet beach for contemplation--it is really wonderful fun if you're going with friends. It's a gorgeous vista and the boardwalk is 2 miles long. Some areas are more crowded than others...but there is a lot to explore, lots of concessions, mini golf, shuffleboard, etc.
Also they have the Theodore Roosevelt Nature Center--located on on a barrier island beach. They have an exhibit area and stuff geared towards kids (outside the exhibit area kids can dig up whale bones in the Discovery Bone Cove, walk through the butterfly garden or view a shipwreck). An environmental boardwalk takes you out into the dune environment to see plants and animals that live there.

HOW TO GET THERE
Jones Beach is reachable in 45 minutes by the Long Island Railroad (leaving from Penn Station at 34th St and reachable by the Number 1,2 and 3) (here's the link to the lowdown --here's another link to the schedule to Freeport, LI.) and they have an excellent package--LIRR Jones Beach Package-- 16.50 from NYC leaving from Penn Station about every half hour. Once you arrive the LIRR has a shuttle bus to the East and West Boathouses and Mall. Buses run from and to the train on a limited schedule--you can still reach the train after these hours but you would have to take a taxi or walk...presumably a bit of a walk:

• Weekends starting at 8:49 AM, return up to 5:35 PM; 8:06AM/10:45 PM from 6/21-8/31
• Weekdays starting at 8:58 AM, return up to 10:45 PM
  
• Buses run later on concert evenings. Bus service is available before and following each performance, and the package will remain available through the final concert date.

Hottest Music Spots- Part 1

NYC doesn't lack for music of all types--
here are some venues of the hipper variety(very, very much not

comprehensive...) :
CLUBS FOR LIVE MUSIC (*recommended for lower cost and
newer more interesting acts, younger crowd)
*ARLENE'S GROCERY:Lower East Side. 2 bars, one free one with
live music.
7 days a week. Cover charges:MONDAYS FREE, SUN, TUE, WED, T
HURS $8 COVER,
FRI AND SAT $10.
*LIVING ROOM: Lower East Side. Very small club.Free usually or small
cover.Interesting acoustic acts-often 4-5 a night.
MARION’S MARQUEE: East Village. 354 Bowery, bet E. 4th and
Great Jones.
Starting at 8pm3 to 5 different bands or artists a night. $5 cover (includes a drink)
Wednesdays.
RODEO BAR East Village.  375 Third Avenue –showtimes 10PM each night .
BITTER END:  West Village-147 Bleeker Street (between Thompson and
LaGuardia)Classic club...Dylan et al got their start here.
RED LION: West Village -151- Bleeker at Thompson. Another classic.
Various folk and rock acts.
CITY WINERY: Tribeca. About 30 dollar cover and excellent acts.
JOE'S PUB- East Village. Great music. Club atmosphere.- /
425 Lafayette Street below 8th Street
/ Astor Place East Village. 

The Best Way to See the City, Fast: Sightseeing by Boat or Bus

As touristy as it sounds, one of the first things NYC tourists should do is take a bus tour to orient themselves.
As small as Manhattan is, it's packed with neighborhoods that each have a different feel. Some may be more to your liking than others, and this is a great way to find out where you might want to spend more time. And it's really the only way to see a lot of destinations in one day. Trying to do each by subway can get exhausting.
Hop on hop off is better for most people than a guided tour--you may want to skip a destination, or you may find one you like and decide to stay their all day. This way you have a choice. Buses arrive fairly frequently at each destination.
There are various companies to choose from--the best is the Gray Line Big Apple. 

Also recommended are the Circle Line boat tours, which are not as elegant or exotic as the Classic Harbor Line Schooner tours, but nonetheless can be lots of fun (or so I hear--I haven't been on the Circle Line yet). The Circle Line departs from Pier 83 at 42nd Street & 12th ave on the Hudson River., and which run from 75 min-3 hours ($24-34), April- Sept their ours are: 75 min tour: Daily: 11:00am; 1:00pm; 3:00pm . 2 hour tour: 11:30am; 3:30pm . 3hour tour: 10:00am; 12:30pm; 2:00pm; 4:30pm .

Columbia University Neighborhood Lowdown

Columbia University is really taking over the neighborhood. Morningside Heights, that is! There have been a lot of complaints about the gentrification of the neighborhood--but frankly I can't think of a better thing to happen to it. More students means more housing means: more cafes, more places to shop (thus more competition in prices), and a safer neighborhood. So you won't hear any complaints from me!
There are tons of restaurants popping up along Amsterdam below 110-I was surprised how many, one after the other, have opened in the last year.
Herewith a list of places in the area of 120th Street within walking distance as well as general info about the area (of course this is Manhattan so as far as I am concerned everything is within walking distance!
Bus:
M11 on Amsterdam and 120th takes you downtown, down Columbus Ave. 104 on Broadway takes you down Broadway. 104 runs more frequently.
Subway:
The 1 stops at 1116 and Broadway and takes you downtown, down the West Side, all the way to the Staten Island Ferry stop. You can switch to the 2 and 3 (express and which goes to Brooklyn) at 96th, 72nd, etc. Go through the Columbia campus to get to the 116. It is lovely. The 1 also stops at 110th, then 96th...etc.
Food shopping:
Apple Tree Market across the street—open 24 hours (also great prepared foods)
Broadway around 116^th—grocery store (prepared foods)
110 and Broadway—D’Agonstino's grocery store (prepared foods)

Drugstore:
Duane Reade (Everywhere but closest is 122 and Broadway)

Restaurants:

• V&T Pizza –Amsterdam bet 110-111. Cheap pizza and Italian—old fashioned and very good:

• Kitchenette- Amsterdam bet 122 and 123: Cutesy 50-ish diner theme, old fashioned pastries to go (eg cupcakes). Medium prices.

• Symposium-113 bet. Amsterdam and Bway: Greek –inexpensive

• Cottage-Amst. and about 114 (across from St John the Divine church)- good Chinese…inexpensive

• Mama Mexico-- Bway and 102—always busy—I have never been there but supposed to be good

• MAX——Amsterdam and 123 Italian, pasta—limited menu but pretty good. Outside eating.

• Ollies—Bway and 166—very popular but generic Chinese (they also deliver)

• Indian place (forgot the name)—on Amsterdam bet. 120-121. Good Indian food. Also delivers

• Ethiopian place (forgot the name)—Amsterdam and 121. Never ate there.

• Hungarian Café—about Amsterdam and 114--this is a MUST—across from St John the Divine…famous café…coffee and croissants plus other Hungarian sweets…oreder then sit at table, they will bring coffee to you.

• Café—forgot the name…but cute sit down café, coffee and sandwiches, on Amsterdam and about 122 on the west side of the street…lots of students

• Tom’s Restaurant—another “must” this is the Greek coffee chop that Seinfeld uses as the outside shot for its “Restaurant” scenes…reasonably priced burgers, typical diner fare.

• *Amsterdam Restaurant and Tapas Lounge 11am–1am1207 Amsterdam Ave, between 119th and 120th Sts. - lots going on here, outside and inside...right on Amsterdam and 120th. .
  

  *Dinosaur Bar-B-Que Mon–Thu 11:30am–11pm 646 W 131st St, between Broadway and Riverside Dr-young crowd, fun, loud...LIVE MUSIC every night (here is the calendar). Cute decor (" Weathered gas-station signage and barbershop mirrors constitute the artfully gritty decor at this honky-tonk saloon")
  
  Sezz MediMon–Wed, Sun 11:30am–4pm, 5–11pm; Thu–Sat 11:30am– 4pm, 5pm–midnight 1260 Amsterdam Ave, at 122nd St. Brick oven PIZZA.

  Massawa Daily 11:30am–11:30pm1239 Amsterdam Ave, at 121st St. Ethiopian, for something new and different.
  
  *Pinkberry 2873 Broadway, between 111th and 112th Sts, FROZEN YOGURT. Yummy, tangy taste. I only have tasted the original flavor.
  

  Caffé Swish Mon–Thu, Sun 11am–11:30pm; Fri, Sat 11am–1am 2953–55 Broadway, between 115th and 116th Sts--ASIAN/ FUSION
  

More Sample Tours

For visitors it's hard to know where the highlights of each place are. Here are a few "sample tours" I created with some of my favorite places:
CENTRAL PARK AND METROPOLITAN MUSEUM: Number 1 to 72nd Street. Central Park is huge and runs from 59th to 11oth Street. All areas are safe except you must be more careful in upper reaches (say 96th to 110). Nice tour-- 72nd Street to Central Park (http://www.centralparknyc.org) , past Dakota, 55 CPW ; through Strawberry Fields, fountain at 72nd, up to Great Lawn at 81st St, “near Belvedere Castle/ Turtle Pond, down through Ramble (don’t get lost) or go across 81st lower end of Great Lawn to Metropolitan Museum. DON’T PAY the 20 RECOMMENDED PRICE! Give them $5 and just say “2 please” and they will give you two metal buttons …At Met. Museum take elevator to Roof Garden for great view of Central Park (esp fun on Fri and Sat night—open until 9PM). IN CP take a rowboat on lake, or go to CP Zoo (near 65th on east side) or all the way up to Conservatory Garden (5th and 103).

5th AVENUE: Number 1 to 59th Street—walk west to 5th Avenue along bottom part of park. Walk down 5th. St. Patrick’s Cathedral (51st); Rockefeller Center, Radio City (Sixth and 50th), across (east) to Grand Central Station (42nd), United Nations (east River bet 42nd and 48th entrance First and 46th) www.un.org) 9:30AM-4:45PM. Tour is 45minutes if you want one-212-963-TOUR); Empire State Building (34th St), Gramercy Park (23rd St), down to East Village--Sunshine Cinema.

34th STREET—Number 1 to 34th Street. Macys and LOTS of clothing stores—H and M, Forever 21, Sephora are all on 34th Street from Macys then going EAST (not west which is mostly trashy stores) etc. Mostly commercial and pretty crazy.

SOHO—Number 1 to Houston—walk east and then south. Soho is THE hip/celebrity laden shopping area, mostly bounded from Prince Street (one block I think below Houston Street) on the North to Broome on the South but you can go more south than that. Mosty it is a lot of expensive stores but Broadway starting from Prince and going down (South) is a good place to start--has some good, inexpensive clothing stores—very cute stuff. H&M but also smaller stores not too expensive for clothes shopping this area is good.

CHINATOWN (Canal Street)—Number 1 to Canal Street. This area is all around Canal Street. It is pretty insanely busy and crowded so only go when you are in a good mood. Cheap cheap cheap t shirts though for souvenirs. (like 5 for ten dollars). Pearl River Mart is on Broadway two blocks north of canal (past Grand and then past Broome). You can walk to Soho and even the West Village from Chinatown or vice versa).

LINCOLN CENTER (60th St area near Amsterdam): Number 1 to 66th Street. Lincoln Center (Met. Opera, NYC Opera, et al) walkthrough down to

TIMES SQUARE: Number 1 2 or 3 to Times Square—42nd Street. has become pretty crazy and touristy but still a “must” if just for the scene with the electronic bulletin boards everyone is used to seeing in movies. TRL Live – MTV Studio is somewhere down here but mostly it is places like chain restaurants –(eg Bubba Gumps) and this is where the theatres (Broadway shows) are. TKTS booth here where you can get reduced price tickets for shows the same day of the show. Broadway, Off-Broadway, Dance and Music events. Tickets are available at 25%, 35%, and 50% off full-price (plus a $3.00 per ticket service charge) and are available on the day of Window 6 is a separate PLAY ONLY line. Same-day discount ticket buyers may queue to purchase tickets for Broadway and Off Broadway dramatic plays. These productions will be indicated on the electronic boards with a letter P.

DOWNTOWN (Statue of Liberty area/Financial District, Battery Park, Castle Clinton, World Financial Center, WTC ): Number 1 to end of line –Ferry stop (Stay in front four cars if you get off this stop)--or 2 or 3 to Park Place…this is where you can reach the Battery Park Promenade (gorgeous green promenade walk by the Hudson River—a MUST to do while you are here), can see the Statue of Liberty, can take the Staten Island Ferry (cute trip back and forth), WTC area (you can see the WTC area which is west of Broadway, at Church—surrounded by fence, hard to miss), South Street Seaport (on the other side—East River--Pier 15 16 and 17-shops, restaurants…. Pioneer-90 minute tours). Also some stores but not a lot –best is Century 21 (outlet store-Cortlandt b. Bway and Church). Wall Street is down here. Pretty quiet on weekends as mostly these are financial services businesses down here.

BROOKLYN BRIDGE (entrance on Park Row-walk across to Brooklyn. Great walk about 45 minutes, ice cream at the end of it, can take water taxi back across to Manhattan—this is very fun to do!!!! )—or walk halfway across then back. You can walk to Brooklyn Heights and the promenade which has a great view of Manhattan, and some nice little shops, then take the 2 or 3 train back home from Brooklyn Heights.

Coney Island--Lots to Do, and Must Do

Coney Island in Brooklyn is one of those NYC MUST DO's for every New Yorker...and for visitors it's even more a must-do, because it is simple, kitschy fun, with the added benefit of greasy carnival food and the imperative to eat it--simply because you are in Coney Island.
It's a bit of a pain to get to--just in terms of length of subway ride from Manhattan (45 min to an hour) but you definitely can spend most of the day here, as there is a lot to do and even more to look at. You can even lay on the beach, if you are brave (I find it dirty and crowded and loud, but for some that's part of the...charm). It's definitely a crucial destination for any visitor with a sense of adventure-because it is out of the way, it is more a place for New Yorkers than tourists. And if you live in NYC and haven't been here yet--shame on you! Get going...you only have to go once, but it is a must-do.
They have tons of interesting events that are well-kept secrets, and many that are not: some, like the wacky Mermaid Parade, have already occurred this summer. But there is still a lot left to do. Here are a few:

Circus Sideshow- ( as much performance art as sideshow). Open Wednesday through Sunday until Labor Day. After Labor Day, the Sideshow returns to Weekend-only operation "SIDESHOWS BY THE SEASHORE is located at the corner of Surf Avenue & West 12th Street in the heart of the Coney Island amusement park. The sideshow seats 99 people and there is a FREAK BAR (serving beer) and a GIFT SHOP in the lobby. Both the inside and the outside of our historic 1917 building are decorated in canvas sideshow banners painted by Valerie Haller or Marie Roberts. The building was originally Child's Restaurant which employed singing waiters. In the 1950's and 60's it was home to Dave Rosen's Wonderland Circus Sideshow where such legends as Sealo the Seal Boy, JoJo the Dogfaced Boy, tattooed man Jack Dracula and talker Bobby Reynolds once worked and performed."
Astroland Amusement Park - Do NOT miss the World Famous Cyclone ("one of the most famous attractions in Brooklyn, New York. The first rides of the historic roller coaster began on June 26, 1927. Over 80 years later, the Cyclone is still thrilling thousands of riders each year. An official New York City Landmark since July 12, 1988, Cyclone was listed in the New York State Register of Historic Places on June 31, 1991." )
Seaside Summer Concert Series -FREE
Aug. 13: Blondie + Pat Benatar + The Donnas
Aug. 20: Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons + Connie Francis
Aug. 27: Donna Summer
Fireworks on the Beach - Astroland and Deno's Wonder Wheel Park sponsor fireworks at 9:30 every Friday night during the season. Fireworks generally start the last weekend in June and conclude the Friday before Labor Day
Burlesque on the Beach Kitschy performance art.

ABOUT CONEY ISLAND
Coney Island is a New York City neighborhood that features an amusement area that includes 35 or more separate rides and attractions.
DAYS AND TIMES OF OPERATION
Coney Island is a seasonal center operating roughly between Easter and Labor Day. Rides and attraction are generally open on weekends from Easter until Memorial Day, all week long from Memorial Day until Labor Day, and then weekends from Labor Day until the end of September. The beach and boardwalk are open all year round (although lifeguards are only on duty from Memorial Day to Labor Day) and Nathan's Hot Dogs and the New York Aquarium are open almost every day of the year.
HOW TO GET THERE BY SUBWAY: Take the D, Q N or F train to Stillwell Avenue (last stop). This takes about 45 minutes from midtown Manhattan.

Ping Pong in the City-Susan Sarandon's New SPiN NYC

It seems Susan Sarandon is a big ping pong (er...table tennis) fan, as she's behind the opening of a new establishment catering solely to that sport--Spin NYC. Located on 23rd between Park & Madison, Spin NYC has membership dues --$500-750--for those die-hard fans of the sport, but they also do allow in non-members (see fees below). You do need to reserve tables--212.982.8802-- (they offer a 9,000 sq ft Main Room with 15 state-of-the-art JOOLA Tables).
A peek at the website indicates this is really more of a sports/gym-atmosphere, as opposed to an East Village- billiards atmosphere, so this doesn't seem like a terribly fun (as in let-loose fun) place at first glance. It looks a bit serious and intimidating, actually. Probably that is because my ping pong skills were developed in a shack in the Adirondacks when I was 8, and haven't gone much further since.
Definitely it seems they take their table tennis seriously. The game room itself looks austere, and geared towards the serious amateur -to-pro.
From their website:
"SPiN New York is a 13,000 square foot table tennis social club on Park Avenue in Manhattan’s Flatiron District. The club offers unparalleled table tennis courts with Olympic quality cushioned flooring and 17 individual tables, including a stadium-like center court. In addition, SPIN New York houses a pro shop, lounge, bar, private room sponsored by Fred Perry and over a dozen internationally known professional coaches and players who are available for private and group instruction.

Info
Reserve tables 212.982.8802-
Hours of Operation – 7 days per week
Mon-Fri…………………5pm-Midnight
Sat – Sun……………….Noon-Midnight
Table Rental Rates
$15 per half-hour for standard tables
$25 per half-hour for pro courts
$50 per half-hour for stadium court

Water Taxi Beach-Family & Over 21 Fun...!

One thing I love most about living in NYC is its proximity to the water. Downtown--both on the east side near South Street Seaport, and the west near Battery Park-the sailboats, the water and sky vista, the working commuter ferries, and steady breeze, the general good vibe from visitors, can make me feel as if I'm in Maine, not NYC!
One particular spot seems to be worth exploring. Water Taxi Beach is in South Street Seaport, north of Pier 17, and looks like it offers a lot of fun for both families and, after 8PM, for the over-21s only, with dancing, djing, live music, and more.
For over 21s, they have a Sunday Dance Party from 4PM -2AM, and live music and djing almost every night. Events are on their website. It looks like they also have some kind of Sunday Brunch as well. Events run every night except Monday night.
Saturday nights they offer DJing from 8-2AM. It looks like a blast--one of the Djs was a Studio 54 spinner back in the day...
Costs seem to run about $10 for entry.
Food is available while the beach is open-a Fish Shack and Pop Bar serves decently priced "beach fare" (hot dogs, watermelon, ice cream, wings, etc), and there is a raw bar on weekends (market price).
For families, they offer ping pong, skeeball, and 9-holes of miniature golf. You can also go on The Shark (loud and large speed boat) or the New York Water Taxi for fun, or the Clipper, which I mentioned earlier in the blog.
A bit more from their website:
"Water Taxi Beach South Street Seaport is 18,000 square feet of fun, food, sun, recreation and relaxation. Located along the water’s edge on the north side of Pier 17, this Beach offers the most spectacular views of the Brooklyn Bridge and the East River in the city. Stop by and catch some rays or build a castle in the sand. Head under the tent and grab a drink or play a game of ping pong, or skeeball then hit the greens for 9-holes of miniature golf. Maybe you’ll win a free thrill ride on The Shark and New York Water Taxi. Check out our Fish Shack for respectfully priced beach grub like our authentic Baja Fish Taco, award winning Motz burgers or grab bucket of popcorn and an international soda pop at our Pop! Pop! Pop! Shop featuring fresh popped popcorn, soda pops from around the world and pop rocks. Once the sun sets, Water Taxi Beach South Street Seaport becomes a playground for the 21+ crowd with rotating DJs all week long, and parties all weekend long."
Hours
11AM-2Am-Fri-Sunday. 11-11 Mon-Tues. 11-1AM Wed-Thurs.
Getting there
Water Taxi Beach South Street Seaport is located along the East River on the north side of Pier 17 a toss of sand away from the center of the Brooklyn Bridge. The closest street address is Fulton Street at South Street. You can get to Water Taxi Beach South Street Seaport by foot, bike, car, bus, subway and of course by New York Water Taxi
Subway
2, 3, 4, 5, A, C, J, M, Z lines to Fulton Street/Broadway Nassau. Walk east on Fulton Street to Water Street.

High Line- It's a Park! It's a Club!

I've yet to visit the High Line park downtown-- but today's story in the Times shines a light on the progress that's been made on this park, creatively constructed on top of an old elevated railway. The atmosphere sounds hip --without the annoyance factor of hip.
Since it runs from Little West 12th/Ganesvoort up to 20th Street on the West Side, it attracts an interesting mix of people, while at the same time offering visitors a chance to interact freely--and for free. From the story, it sounds as if it prompts that odd friendliness I've experienced among Manhattanites whenever they're in the midst of something unique and new (which seems to give us license to talk to each other) :
"It even inspires crusty New Yorkers to behave as if they were strolling down Main Street in a small town rather than striding the walkway of a hyper-urban park — routinely smiling and nodding, even striking up conversations with strangers."
While it isn't about to beat Central Park for natural beauty (you may be elevated--but you're elevated on top of a road), it's one more "only in New York" place.
A park on top of an elevated railway. I love it.
High Line Hours and location
Open 7AM -10PM
Enter at 20th, 18th, 16th, 14th and Gansevoort Streets at 10th Avenue.

Bowling in NYC-of course there has to be a nightclub, too!

Yes, you CAN go bowling in NYC! It's not as cheap as it is in the suburbs, but the kitsch factor is worth it. And each of the alleys below has, apparently, a hot club or lounge to accompany it.
This is a super thing to do if you are in your teens or 20s. For families, not all the lanes are as appropriat (eg Bowlmor).
Actually the only time I tried to go bowling in NYC, the place (Bowlmor) was booked up for the whole evening for a corporate event. In fact most of these places seem to have a lot of corporate events, so you may want call ahead and reserve, tho you can also take your chances since some of these places, like Bowlmor and Lucky Strike, are as much about their club atmosphere and lounges as they are about bowling.
Here's a rundown courtesy of New York magazine:
Lucky Strike--college age or 30s. 624-660 West 42nd Street (on the West Side Highway--really out of the way so take a cab there). 646-829-0170.. Monday nites after 8PM there is unlimited bowling til the close for $22. Club atmosphere...
Bowlmor---Geared towards college age. 110 University Place near E 12th St. 212-255-8188. Kitschy. Lots of NYU students and the Pressure Lounge upstairs a "rowdy nightclub" (very pretty also). A real scene.
300- Chelsea Piers- Pier 60-212-835-2695. West Side Highway around 23rd St. Kids and families in the day. Nighttime it "goes more disco". "Postgame drinks in the Loft, a lounge that overlooks the entire alley. "
Leisure Time/ Frames-- 625 8th Ave. near 40th (Port Authority). 212-836-9695. Newly renovated, this looks good on the website at least. More commuters, more serious. Not the best location so you really have to want to bowl to go here.

A sample Mom Upper West Side-Based Tour -6 days

When my mother was here we had a whirlwind trip with barely a moment to breathe. Doesn't sound terribly appealing does it? But I've found that while I often need a vacation-from-my-vacations--and this time was no exception--I never regret packing in the "extras". It is important to have balance. Sitting in a cafe for 2 hours reading a book trumps a second museum in one day almost all the time. With proper planning, you can fit a lot into a day and still have time for an afternoon rest (essential, especially when dealing with jet lag).
Herewith, an itinerary especially suited to moms and grandmas; tho a lot of these activities are universal and can be enjoyed by all ages, this is a great trip for that age group.
Most important however: taking cabs. I cannot emphasize enough how draining taking the subway is unless you are young, and how much it cuts into your time. So taking taxis is essential for this itinerary as there is a lot packed into each day. But it does add up quickly so it only makes sense if you are willing to pay $8-20 for each trip:
Day 1 (arrival)-Dinner at an outdoor cafe (in our case, French Roast at Bway and 84th). Outdoor cafes are a great way to get into the cosmopolitan flavor of NYC, quickly. Dessert at another cafe (on the upper west side, Edgar's for example). Or grab a Tasti-d-Lite at one of its many location (such as Bway and 85th)--a frequent sitcom co-star (Seinfeld and Sex and the City to name 2 off the bat).
Day 2-Boat tour (in our case the yacht brunch with Sail NYC). Evening: Broadway show (in our case the magnificent, moving Billy Elliot...as good as they say, but with far more depth, and relevance, than it's given credit for). Late dinner at one of the many restaurants in the Theater District (try Joe Allen's for a real B'way experience...but there are tons of places to go).
Day 3- Metropolitan Museum. Don't try to do everything. Choose a few special exhibits, then focus on the 19th century Europeans and the well-known pieces--they have a magnificent collection of Rembrandts and Dutch paintings, and the Impressionist collection, with some signifcant Pissaros. Van Goghs, Gaugins, and more, is a must see. Lunch at the absic American Wing Cafe, the pedestrian cafeteria downstairs, or at the lovely Petrie Court Cafe, which faces Central Park (they also serve an afternoon tea here).
Movie at the Paris Cinema on 58th and Fifth. Light dinner at the Plaza Oak Room Bar ( do NOT miss the wonderful paintings!). Grab a babka for the next morning at Hot and Crusty (many locations--Bway and 83rdish being one of them).
Day 4: South Street Seaport. Clipper tall ship ride. Late lunch in the Seaport. Dessert at a cafe such as Cafe Lalo (83rd bet. Amsterdam and B'way--AKA the "You've Got Mail" cafe).
Day 5: Another museum--in our case an eclectic one--the Mt. Vernon Hotel Museum (or try the Frick museum at 70th and Fifth). Dylan's Candy Bar on 60th and 3rd for fun. Serendipity on 60th between 2nd and 3rd for ice cream if you can get in (we couldn't). Or try a "real" NYC diner just for the experience ("real" means at least 2 people have to be speaking Greek--loudly--behind the counter). I love City Diner on 90th and Broadway for the quality of food and friendly service. It is not ancient like a lot of classic NYC diners but it is cleaner and has better food than most...so you give up a little atmosphere for the promise of no food poisoning. Then another Broadway show (in our case "Blithe Spirit" with Angela Lansbury and Rupert Everett-- no longer playing). Dessert in the gracious, old world Algonquin Hotel lobby.
Day 6: Visit Central Park--the Conservatory Garden at 105th and Fifth is always a gentle surprise (don't miss the "Secret Garden" statue) . Tea with finger sandwiches and sweets at Alice's Tea Cup ( a few locaitons--one at 73rd and Columbus). Movie at Lincoln Plaza Cienemas on 62nd and Broadway (for the typical NY independent film experieince). And--in our case--a visit to Midsummer Night's Swing--gone at the end of July but not to be missed if you are here in July. It was tango night when we went. Seeing the mix of dancers, the sheer breadth of "types", is truly enlightening.
Day 7: (leaving-day). Last breakfast at Le Pain Quotidien....in our case the 91st and Broadway location. While it has a lost a bit of its charm as it expands, the baguettes are still to die for as our the croissants and other pastries.
Things I wanted to do in this time but didn't: prepared foods at Zabar's at Bway and 80th (not to be missed...but we did); a grocery trip to Fairway at 74th and Bway (just for the experience of having old ladies crash their carts into you...everyone is actually so nice in NYC lately, that a trip to Fairway will reassure you the NY spirit of "me first" still lives on!). More to come...

Governors Island-Mini-Golf and (The) B52s!

Governors Island has been getting a lot of press lately--twice this month in the NY Times. Their latest story about Governors Island was published last week... and since I'm lazy and haven't been there yet (tho I really really want to go--it just has that factor of having to work for it that Manhattanites HATE...), here are a few excerpts:
"To hear island officials tell it, Governors Island has come of age this summer, with the opening of the southern portion and the 2.2-mile promenade around the perimeter. Also newly opened is Picnic Point, an eight-acre lawn on the southwest corner that features hammocks, picnic tables and what officials declare are the best shore views of the Statue of Liberty. This month a dining and entertainment spot called Water Taxi Beach opened, adjacent to the ferry dock, boasting an ambitious menu and tied in with a nighttime concert series that includes Erykah Badu on Aug. 4 and the B-52s on Aug. 18.....(also Judy Collins July 26th.. edit).
On the lawn near Liggett Hall is an artist-designed 18-hole miniature golf course, with holes inspired by city rooftops, the Cyclone roller coaster and even an electric guitar.....
A former military post with roles in the War of 1812, the Civil War and both World Wars, for roughly two centuries it served as a base for the United States Army and Coast Guard, which officially left in 1996...There are miles of bike paths; guided tours are available, conducted by rangers from the National Park Service, which oversees part of the island, including Castle Williams and Fort Jay. Or you can wander aimlessly along rows of handsome, if faded, Victorian and Romanesque Revival buildings that once housed military personnel...Visitors rave about the views here...
Hours and directions
Open May 11-Oct 11. Friday Sat and Sunday.
Directions and ferry schedule The Governors Island Ferry departs from the Battery Maritime Building located adjacent to the Staten Island Ferry in Lower Manhattan. The ferry terminal is accessible as follows:

By Subway
1 – South Ferry Station
4, 5 (weekdays) to Bowling Green
W (weekdays only), R (weekdays and weekends) – Whitehall St. Station

Learning to Fly-Trapeze Lessons in NYC!

The NY Times has a story today about Trapeze School New York --aka "that place where Carrie goes to conquer her fear of heights, and, metaphorically, more....".
If you're not a Sex and the City fan, in plain English, that means "that outdoor trapeze thing next to the Hudson that I look at when I am passing in a cab and think 'one day I'll do that...!".
On West Street at Houston, they offer various classes in various aerial arts. They also have some indoor classes (tho what fun is that...?) at 518 West 30th.
Classes in flying trapeze are $60 for 2 hours (plus $22 "first time reservation fee") and 10 people max. Here's their backgrounder: "Classes are 2 hours long and are taught in groups of up to 10 people. No prior experience is necessary. First-time students will learn the knee-hang and may even be able to try a catch. All students will have the opportunity to advance their skills."
It sounds like fun--tho the cringe factor for people like me who hate embarrassing themselves sports-wise appears rather high. Oh well, who cares. "Only in New York"!

New in Town: Clipper City Tall Ship in South Street Seaport

Manhattan By Sail has just introduced a 160' tall ship--Clipper City --to the the South Street Seaport (downtown Manhattan), at Pier 17--and this experience of being on a genuine 19th century schooner (extensively refurbished) is not to be missed if you are even remotely adventurous. The 90 minute sail around the tip of Manhattan, with views of the Brooklyn Bridge, The Statue of Liberty, and more, is spectacular. There are places to sit-- but this is NOT a comfort-voyage, in the sense that you're not sitting on padded seats. Still, it worked for my 85 year old mother. And frankly, no one in their right mind would sit throughout the voyage when you can hang on the edge of the boat and take in the view, and feel the sheer joy of the wind and water.
A nice touch was the young and totally hip bluegrass band that played throughout the trip. They were VERY good, and it added verisimilitude to the atmosphere.
Once they raise the sails, you can imagine, if just briefly, what it was like to be on the open seas a century ago...except. of course, for the great advantage of having a 21st century lunch in one of the many outdoor cafes in the Seaport afterward!
And yes --South Street Seaport is VERY touristy. Really the only designated tourist-spot in Manhattan, with lots of shops and overpriced stuff. But it's great for families, kids love the ships as do adults, and the many restaurants are quite decent.
I will add that this is not the same type of trip as the Adirondack Schooner & Yacht Cruise Tours --I still highly recommend the Schooner Tours from Sail NYC. They are smaller schooners and have a different feel. I recommend the small schooner for those wanting a more intimate atmosphere.
Clipper City tall ship hours and costs
7 days a week- 90 minute sails-10AM 12:30PM 3PM 7PM
Tickets: $39 for adults- $17 for kids (18 and under)
Clipper City is docked on the east dock of South Street Seaport at Pier 17

Dylan's Candy bar-sweet for all ages

I usually avoid Dylan's Candy Bar at Third Avenue and 60th St., since most of the time it's packed with kids and tourists. But my 85 year old mother and I went on a lark-- and she loved it! I finally lost my grumpiness as well when they started playing "Sugar, Sugar" (still one of my fave songs). Dylan's is-obviously-heaven for kids, but really it is fun for everyone. Let's face it-adults like candy as much, if not more than, kids. And they have a "nostalgia" section where you can find Sky Bars, Teaberry Gum, Buns, Mallo Cups, and more.
Another plus--the service is VERY friendly. Clearly the kids they hire are well-trained in customer management and they are patient and helpful.
Bulk candy runs $10.99 a pound, and they also have fudge, and a sweets cafe upstairs with ice cream and cupcakes (the cafe looked a little sterile however).
Lots of fun for the kid in all of us.

Mt. Vernon Hotel Museum-charming respite

I mentioned The Mount Vernon Hotel Museum (NOTE: the museum is closed in August) at 61st between 1st Avenue and York in a prior post. Well, I returned yesterday, and had a charming visit. My mother and I were the only visitors at the time and the museum had only 2 visitors prior to us that day. We received a personal tour by an 18 year old student who was adorable and enthusiastic and smart, and it made the visit that much more special. The two other docents there were incredibly friendly. It felt more like a visit to a friend's home than a museum tour.
The house itself was built by John Adams' daughter Abigail and her husband but never used by them due to economic troubles (hmmm..sounds familiar!)--subsequently it became a hotel used by wealthy New Yorkers as a respite from the Big City (which at that time extended only up to 14th Street). Swimming in the East River was a -gasp-favorite activity. The rooms are filled with period pieces, and not particularly spectacular compared to similar period rooms in the Met. But it is the idea of this charming, 18th century home in the middle of crazy Manhattan (with a view of the Rososevelt Island tramway and Queensborough Bridge) that makes this a special, off-the-beaten-path destination.
NOTE: The museum is closed in August. Note also there are STAIRS and no elevator--hard for seniors tho doable.
Admission$8 adults, $7 students and seniors Free for Museum Members and children under 12 Museum Hours11AM- 4PM Tuesday through Sunday (please arrive no later than 3:30 to leave enough time for last tour). Closed the month of August, New Year’s Day, Independence Day, Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day Directions to the Museum The Museum is located at 421 East 61st Street between First and York Avenues. Public transportation: Bus: M15, M31 or M57. Subway: N, R or 4, 5, 6 to 59th Street/Lexington Avenue Station or the F to Lexington Avenue

More free music-Hudson Square Music & Wine Festival

I just received notice from City Winery--one of my fave music spots in Tribeca (Varick and Spring) of FREE summer Tuesday nights of wine and music...what they are calling the 1st Annual Hudson Square Music and Wine Festival. Every Tuesday from 5-7 they'll have free music as well as a Farmer's Market and...wine. Well, I've had enough wine, thank you very much--but the rest of it sounds pretty interesting, and it could be a hot young crowd. We'll see. I like the City Winery for music --they have great shows at a great price--so this might be a fun event. Every Tuesday 5-7PM through Aug 11th. Aug 4th they have country rock; Aug 11 afro-soul.

Concerts in the Parks-NY Philharmonic, live and free

The New York Philharmonic gives a series of free outdoor concerts each July. This year on July 14 and 17th they'll be performing in Central Park on the Great Lawn (enter at 81st and CPW or 81st and Fifth Avenue to get there). The concerts start at 8PM and are free, of course. Like most Central Park concerts, this is really more of a "scene" than a musical event. The musical picks are usually crowd-pleasers (or classical- music -crowd pleasers), and frankly it is really for hanging out and saying you went there. I usually avoid it but it is an event, and out of towners will be impressed by the beauty of the location and the fact that so many New Yorkers manage to get together in one place without killing each other (though there is a definite divide between the music buffs who actually come to hear the music, and the "rest" who come to hang out in the park on their blankets and drink wine and eat cheese and talk and let their kids and dogs wander. ..which is fun too. But....really only if you ...like. Being. With. Lots. Of. People. In a crowded space. Not really for the music. But...an event!!!

Midsummer Night's Swing at Lincoln Center-best free show in town!

Midsummer Night's Swing is Lincoln Center's July 7-25th. Tues-Sat. outdoor dance event for professionals, amateurs, and just-watchers. It's one of those "only in New York" experiences that just makes you feel happy being there-whether you ware only walking by or decide to take the lessons they offer beforehand....or brave the dance floor. Most start at 6:30 with a dance lesson (free), and 7:30 with the live music. The bands are often world-renowned. This is fun for everyone, and a great thing for young kids also. You don't have to be inside the dance circle to enjoy hanging out...some of the best people-watching in town can be found here, and in New York that's saying a lot! All sorts of music and dance--from rockabilly to jazz to Latin to world music. Thursday July 9th has the Woody Herman Band (big band, swing); Friday, July 17th features the Best Dance in Town: Rockabilly.
When-Tues-Sat. July 7-25, 2009. Usually starts at 7:30 (lessons at 6:30).
Where: Damrosch Park, 62nd between Columbus and Amsterdam.

Independence Day at the NY Historical Society

I have relatives on both sides of my family who were soldiers in the Revolutionary War and I really wanted to spend the day at the NY Historical Society, two blocks from my apartment, and which every Independence Day has a Revolutionary War re-enactors and Ben Franklin, Thomas Jefferson and others. What a blast! My friend Michele and I went and got to chat with Ben (I warned him about the key and kite business but he wouldn't listen!)--and one of the soldiers (the guy on the left above) who showed us how to bayonet someone (SCARY as I was on the receiving end!) and load a musket (this may come in handy some day...?). They also had a 1776 copy of the Decalration of Independence (one of multiple copies that were sent out July 6th, 1776 to various colonies--broadsides were the Twitter of 1776...). They also had a lot of crafts for kids. Only one day a year of course-- but they DO have other events throughout the year for adults and kids. Anyway it was fun --and free! Closed July 12-Sept.

River to River Festival- FREE music and more in downtown NYC

The River to River Festival takes place from June to August each year in various public downtown NYC spots--Chambers Street down to the Battery Park/South Street Seaport. They have a series of FREE events: concerts, ranging from opera to hip-hop; and other events, such as the Public School Dance Contest, special events for kids, etc. Here are a few interesting, free upcoming events (go to the website for full schedule):

• Movie Nights On The Elevated Acre: The Seven Year Itch -July 6 8PM-55 Water St. (Multiple nights for movies)

• EAT: World Financial Center Restaurant Showcase- July 9 -Winter Garden-11AM

• Seaport Music: Casiokids, The Wave Pictures and Slow Club-Aug 7 6PMCasiokids (Norwegian electro-troupe playing afro-beat, techno and out-and-out pop), The Wave Pictures (“sweetly, simply soporific”), and Slow Club (“UK’s answer to The White Stripes”)... FREE 6PM South Street Seaport Pier 17

• Richie Havens- Four Nights of Peace, Love & Music: A Castle Clinton Tribute to Woodstock- July 23 7PM Castle Clinton National Monument, Battery Park / State Street and Battery Place / 212.835.2789Tickets will be distributed 2 per person outside Castle Clinton on a first-come, first-served basis starting at 5:00PM on the day of the show.

• Arlo Guthrie-Four Nights of Peace, Love & Music: A Castle Clinton Tribute to Woodstock- July 30 7PM (see above for tickets and location)

• John Kelly Sings The Joni Mitchell Songbook: "Songs for a Shiny Hot Night" Four Nights of Peace, Love & Music: A Castle Clinton Tribute to Woodstock- Aug 6 7PM Castle Clinton-tickets will be distributed 2 per person outside Castle Clinton on a first-come, first-served basis starting at 5:00pm on the day of the show. FREE. his is a HOT ticket.

Friday night at the Metropolitan Museum of Art.. Magical.

I still get a ridiculous thrill every time I walk up the many, grand steps of the Metropolitan Museum. And then there's Friday night. There's simply nothing like a Friday (or, second choice, Saturday) night at the Museum. Fewer people (days are filled with class trips and tourists), a string quartet and piano playing upstairs, the evening sky from the Roof Garden, a walk back through Central Park to the west side; all make for a magical experience. There are several unique exhibits at the Met right now. Here are a few:

• Francis Bacon: A Centenary Retrospective (thru Aug 16)-powerful, and disturbing. Not for kids. Don't go to this last or you'll leave wanting to slit your wrists.
• Roxy Paine on the Roof-Maelstrom (thru Oct 25 and weather permitting...) The Roof Garden is always spectacular. The view of the park is amazing. But this sculpture -Maelstrom--is the best I've experienced on the Roof. And I do mean experienced. Crowded but worth it. Go. Go. Go.
  
• The Model as Muse: Embodying Fashion (thru Aug 9th) --Wow ! This was a blast. Lots of fashion photos--but the clothes are the stars of this one. So well-done--each era has its own room, accompanied by music of the era. The 60's room, with Rudi Geinreich dresses, was too, too trippy! This is just plain FUN.
  
• The New American Wing. FINALLY it is open! I love the American Wing! I love golden Diana with her bow and arrow. I love the FL Wright reconstruction. I love the Tiffany windows. And the new, open roof design is fantastic. I didn't get to go through...just visited the Engelhard Court. But I can't wait to see what they've done.
  
• Michelangelo's First Painting. This is the FIRST showing of this in the US.
• New Greek and Roman Gallery. More Roman sculpture than Greek. Not the same. Bah. But still lovely.
  
  

So much to do here one post can't do it justice. I love living close enough to walk to the Met, so I don't feel guilty for only going for an hour or two. The fact is there is TOO much to see in one trip. So you have to pick and choose. And honestly not spend too much time on one thing. The best part about the museum is just walking through and letting it wash over you. Personally I like blocking out the noise with my iPod as well. It kind of adds to the experience.

Eat in one of the cafes--the cafeteria downstairs has some great food, though it's pedestrian and pretty crowded. The American Wing has a blah cafe with sandwiches. Upstairs you can get cocktails on Friday and Sat. night while the quartet plays...The Petri Court Cafe in the Sculpture Garden is the prettiest, with a view of the park.

Hours and location 1000 Fifth Ave. at 82nd St. Museum Hours Monday: Closed (Except Holiday Mondays) Tuesday–Thursday: 9:30 a.m.–5:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday: 9:30 a.m.–9:00 p.m. Sunday: 9:30 a.m.–5:30 p.m.
Restuarants/ cafes Petrie Court Café and Wine Bar ($$) Hours: Friday and Saturday: 9:30 a.m.–10:30 p.m. (last seating at 8:30 p.m.) Sunday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday: 9:30 a.m.–4:30 p.m.; wine bar on Friday and Saturday evenings, Afternoon tea begins at 2:30 p.m.; Closed Monday (except Holiday Mondays). To make reservations (dinner and brunch only), please call 212-570-3964. See sample menus. The New American Wing Café ($$)—Opening May 19, 2009 Hours: Friday and Saturday: 11:00 a.m.–8:30 p.m.; Sunday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday: 11:00 a.m.–4:30 p.m.; Closed Mondays. Great Hall Balcony Bar ($$) Hours: Friday and Saturday; 4:00–8:30 p.m.; last call at 8:00 p.m. Details: Waiters serve appetizers and cocktails from our full bar, accompanied by live classical music. See a sample menu. Not appropriate for children. the cafeteria ($) Hours: Friday and Saturday: 11:30 a.m.–7:00 p.m.; Sunday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday: 11:30 a.m.–4:30 p.m.; Closed Monday (except Holiday Mondays.)

Pier I - On the (Upper West Side) Waterfront

A part of the river-walk along the Hudson, Pier I is one of the best-kept-secrets of the upper west side (though it may seem busy, many NY friends I have know nothing about it). A beautifully renovated, expansive pier, with an extensive outdoor cafe (tables and chairs are for both customers and non-customers), this is a great place to hang out. The pier itself has a gorgeous, uncluttered view of the Hudson. A wonderful place to relax on a Friday night--or any night--though the live music events, movies, etc. can really interfere with your solitude, so it is hit and miss in the summer if loud music bothers you (you can guess how I feel about it). You can check for upcoming events online. This is also a GREAT place to sit as long as you want in the morning with a coffee and croissant (bring your own, or they have coffee and pastries there). It's much quieter on weekday mornings than weekends, of course. The Pier I Cafe can get crowded but it's a far better choice than the way-overrated 79th Street Boat Basin cafe (which is getting noisy and dirty and beer-y). You can reach the pier by walking down along the river-walk, which you can enter from various exits in Riverside Park...or take the path from 72nd and Riverside, walking west, past the Eleanor Roosevelt Statue and dogrun. This takes you down some (steep) steps; or, there is an entrance at 68th and Riverside that takes you under the West Side Highway (I have yet to find this--but I have been told it is there!).
There is also a lovely boardwalk continuing down (south) from the cafe, with sweeping prairie grasses, and space for kids to run and play.
Oh--don't miss the FREE kayaking there as well! It's loads of fun and just scary enough to be exhilarating...and you can say you kayaked on the Hudson. One more cool thing about NYC!
Cafe Hours (May 1-mid, Oct-weather permitting)
Pier I Cafe is at W. 70th St. and Hudson River. RESTAURANT Hours: Monday-Thurs @ 12PM-11PM Friday 12PM-12:30AM Sat 11AM-12:30AMSunday @ 11AM -11PM. CAFE hours (coffee and pastry): M-F 7AM-1PM Sat and Sun. 7AM-4PM
Nearby Subway Stops: 1, 2, 3 at 72nd St.