Staying Cool in NYC Pools
Being outside in the summer heat can feel like stepping into a gigantic steam room. When the sweltering, humid air hits your skin, there’s no better place to cool off than in one of NYC’s pools. As of last week, all 54 public outdoor pools are open for business. Here, we give you the inside scoop on some of the city’s most interesting swimming holes.
Lasker Pool & Rink
(inside Central Park, between 106th and 108th Streets)
In winter, it’s an ice skating rink; in summer, a swimming pool. Whether you’re in the market for exercise or purely interested in splashing around for fun, Lasker Pool is a fantastic place to take a dip and escape the blazing summer heat.
Open 11am-3pm and 4pm-7pm daily. Click here for directions and additional information.
Asser Levy Recreation Center
(392 Asser Levy Place, at East 23rd Street between First Avenue and East River Drive)
In search of an all-inclusive recreational experience? Look no further. The facilities at Asser Levy include an indoor pool (closed for the summer), basketball courts, handball courts, a playground, and a fitness center – all in addition to the outdoor pools, of course. The main pool in this park measures a massive 120′ x 45′ and stands adjacent to a smaller wading pool, perfect for pint-sized swimmers.
Pools are open 11am-3pm and 4pm-7pm daily. Click here for directions and additional information.
Barretto Point Park
(Tiffany Street, The Bronx)
Barretto Point Park encompasses over 11 acres of magnificent land, but the truly unique aspect of this public space is surely the freshwater Floating Lady Pool. Visitors “walk the plank” from the mainland to the pool, which is set on a barge docked in the East River through Labor Day.
Pool is open 11am – 3pm and 4pm to 7pm daily. Click here for directions and additional information.
Fireworks and Festivities on the 4th
July 4th marks anniversary of America’s independence. Get into the spirit with these classic events that celebrate the holiday with an NYC twist.
The Macy’s 4th of July Fireworks show is one of the most awe-expiring displays in the world. The celebration starts at 9pm with performances by Beyonce and Brad Paisley. Then, look to the skies where over 40,000 explosions of color and light are sure to inspire “oohs” and “aahs” from the crowd. This spectacular event takes place over the Hudson River, just off the west side of Manhattan.
For more information and details on where to stand for the best view, click here.
If you prefer a more vintage feel, gather at the rooftop bar of The Empire Hotel (44 West 63rd Street, at Broadway) for The Liberty Belle Spectacular. This extravaganza celebrates the best of Americana kitsch, with live rockabilly bands, Hawaiian swing music, burlesque showgirls, and lively dance numbers.
Click here for details and ticket information.
Movies By Moonlight
Enjoy free outdoor movie screenings all summer long at NYC’s most scenic open-air locales. From Back to the Future to Cool Hand Luke, spend an evening under the stars watching some of Hollywood’s all-time classics.
The HBO Bryant Park Film Festival (40th to 42nd Streets, between Fifth and Sixth Avenues; enter at Sixth Avenue) is one of the most popular outdoor movie screening locales in the city. On Mondays through August 22nd, gather with hundreds of New Yorkers to view some favorites like Easy Rider and Airplane! Grab a picnic dinner at nearby ‘wichcraft and head into the park. Films start at sundown. Click here for details.
Hop aboard the deck of the Intrepid Sea, Air and Space Museum (Pier 86 at West 46th Street and Twelfth Avenue) on select Fridays for screenings of films ranging from The Goonies to Jurassic Park. Bring chairs, blankets and snacks. Doors open at 7:30pm and screenings start at sundown. Click here for details.
Museum Mile
Last week’s post touted Central Park, which is teeming with special events all summer long. But just to the east, Museum Mile (5th Avenue between East 82nd and East 105th Streets) waits to be discovered. Aside from well-known icons like the Metropolitan Museum of Art and the Guggenheim, several smaller niche museums on this renowned stretch of land are treasure troves of history and culture.
The Museum of the City of New York is a celebration of everything that makes up this remarkable city. With current exhibits on everything from transportation-themed toys to the NYC Green Cart program, a visit here is sure to enlighten even the most seasoned New Yorker about the city that never sleeps.
(1220 Fifth Avenue at East 102nd Street)
El Museo del Barrio showcases the richness of Latino, Caribbean and Latin American culture. As the city’s leading Latino cultural institution, this museum offers several exhibitions and collections, as well as year-round cultural celebrations and educational programs.
(1230 Fifth Avenue at East 104th Street)
A few blocks south, Cooper-Hewitt, National Design Museum gives visitors a glimpse into the way that human creativity and design has affected daily life for centuries. A member of the Smithsonian Institution, this landmark is the only museum in the country devoted to historic and contemporary design.
(2 East 91st Street at Fifth Avenue)
Get Your Culture Fix in Central Park
‘Tis the season when Central Park comes alive with theater and music. Check out these ways to get your culture fix in NYC this summer.
Shakespeare in the Park
For over 50 years, The Public Theater has performed some of the Bard’s most beloved masterpieces for the enjoyment of New York City audiences. The 2011 season kicked off this week with Measure for Measure, which, alternating with All’s Well That Ends Well, will run on select days through July 30th. Tickets are free but in high demand, so be sure to read up on the details.
(Delacorte Theater in Central Park. Near the park entrances at 81st Street and Central Park West or 79th Street and Fifth Avenue.)
Central Park SummerStage
Not far away, Central Park SummerStage brings energy and excitement to the city all summer long. This concert series presents a host of music and spoken word performances, from traditional favorites to emerging artists. A highlight this year: Shelebration! A Tribute to the Works of Shel Silverstein. Check out the full schedule here.
(Rumsey Playfield in Central Park. Near the park entrance at 72nd Street and Fifth Avenue.)
A Taste of Times Square
Mark your calendar and bring your appetite. This Monday, June 6th, brings the 18th annual Taste of Times Square food festival, where some of the area’s top restaurants offer up their dishes to the masses amidst live music and entertainment. This year’s 40 participating Times Square staples include B. Smith’s, Becco, Toloache, Virgil’s Real Barbecue, and Ruby Foo’s.
While there is no admission fee, tasting portions can range from $1 to $5, depending on the dish. Hungry festival-goers must purchase “Taste Tickets” at the Times Square Visitor Center and Mini-Museum (Seventh Avenue between 46th and 47th Streets).
This culinary extravaganza takes place on the Broadway Plazas between 42nd and 47th Streets from 5-7pm. Arrive early to ensure the best selection.
The Many Sides of Madison Square Park
While for years Madison Square Park was best known as the home of Danny Meyer’s first Shake Shack, this fantastic green space now boasts much more than just burgers. Located at 23rd Street between Madison and Fifth Avenues, Madison Square Park offers something for everyone, whether you’re a lover of art, food, music, or all of the above.
See
Take a stroll through the park now through August 14th to view an astonishing work of public art by celebrated Spanish sculptor Jaume Plensa. Echo stands 44 feet high and depicts the face of a nine-year-old girl lost in a state of thoughts and dreams. This astonishing masterpiece exudes a welcome sense of tranquility and quiet in the middle of bustling Manhattan.
Taste
Burgers and shakes aren’t the only way to satiate your palate in this neighborhood. Madison Square Eats brings together some of New York City’s most buzzed about restaurants and food trucks, including Momofuku Molk Bar, Resto, Nunu Chocolates, Eataly and Calexico. The outdoor food paradise is located just adjacent to the park and is open daily from 11am – 9pm, now through June 3rd.
Hear
Grab a picnic blanket and some take-out and enjoy a night of music under the stars. Starting on June 22nd, Madison Square Music will present free outdoor concerts every Wednesday night through August 10th. Featured performers come from a variety of genres, including folk, country, bluegrass and jazz. Concerts are held rain or shine, and start times vary. Check out the schedule for details.
Long Live McQueen
Undoubtedly one of the most glamorous events in NYC – and possibly the world – the Metropolitan Museum of Art Costume Institute’s annual gala is set for Monday, May 2nd. This red carpet extravaganza never ceases to attract the biggest international stars, who show up dressed to the nines in elaborate, stunning ensembles. This year’s event kicks off the Costume Institute’s spring restrospective, Alexander McQueen: Savage Beauty.
Alexander McQueen: Savage Beauty pays homage to the prolific designer, whose untimely death in February left the fashion world reeling. Throughout his 19-year career, McQueen challenged and expanded the world’s understanding of fashion beyond simple utility to an expression of culture, politics, and identity. The exhibition will feature approximately 100 ensembles and 70 accessories designed by this remarkable artist.
Alexander McQueen: Savage Beauty will be on display at the Met and open to the public from May 4th through July 31st.
Top Chefs Take Manhattan
Padma and Gail may have asked them to pack their knives and go, but these talented former cheftestants from Bravo TV’s hit “Top Chef” are now some of NYC’s premier chefs. You’ve swooned over their food for years, now get the chance to taste the magic for yourself at these local eateries.
The Man Who Started It All
Season 1 winner Harold Dieterle showcases his prize-winning culinary skills nightly at Perilla. Dieterle serves up a seasonal menu of flavor-packed American dishes at this Greenwich Village hot spot named for the perilla plant, a relative of mint and basil. Be sure to plan your visit ahead of time. With just 18 tables and 10 seats at the bar, Perilla can fill up quickly.
9 Jones Street (between Bleecker and West 4th Streets)
Asian-Inspired Comfort Food
Angelo Sosa’s Social Eatz has been open for just two weeks, but the buzz is already building. At this simple, fun eatery, the Top Chef All Star infuses Asian flavors into American favorites in categories ranging from App’z to Sweet’z and everything in between. This eat-in/carry-out restaurant is also socially responsible; they serve sustainable fish, all-natural meat from humanely treated animals, and certified organic produce.
232 E 53rd Street (between Second and Third Avenues)
Decadent Desserts
Known for his disco dust and deep-fried decadence, Top Chef Just Desserts contestant Zac Young left viewers salivating all season long. Your taste buds will thank you when you try his treats in person at Flex Mussels, where he holds court as the Belgian eatery’s executive pastry chef. From donuts to whoopie pie, Zac’s creative confections do not disappoint. Try our personal favorite, the chocolate cream pie ‘on its side’.
Two locations: 154 West 13th Street (between Sixth and Seventh Avenues) and 174 East 82nd Street (between Third and Lexington Avenues)
Channel Your Inner Child
Why should kids get to have all the fun in New York City? Gotham is bursting with adult activities to bring out the child in anyone – if just for a few hours.
Way Before Wii
Don’t forget your quarters when you head to Barcade (388 Union Avenue, Williamsburg), a Brooklyn bar with over twenty beers on tap and an array of old-school video games. See if you can remember how to win at all of your favorites, including classics like the original Super Mario Brothers, Donkey Kong and Punch Out.
Fun and Games
Walking into Fat Cat (75 Christopher Street, at Seventh Avenue) is like being transported to the ultimate 1970’s basement. This bar/music venue has it all, from ping pong to checkers to shuffleboard. Grab a drink, gather your friends and get ready for some lighthearted fun. But leave the LPs at home – Fat Cat has live music every night. Click here for a schedule.
Sweet Spirits
Satisfy your sweet tooth at Dylan’s Candy Bar (1011 Third Avenue, at 60th Street). Though its upstairs cafe is currently under renovation, it reopens in April – with a twist. The sugary paradise will now stay open after hours as a lounge, serving candy-inspired cocktails like rock candy cosmos and gummy bear martinis.
