Buzz

It’s impossible to discuss The Gilded Age (both the show and the era) without mentioning the Astor Family.

Founded in the 1780’s by John Jacob Astor, he made his fortune in fur and Manhattan real estate. The Mrs. Astor we keep hearing about in The Gilded Age was the wife of John Jacob’s grandson. Broadway great Donna Murphy is doing a great job of portraying Mrs. Astor and I’m becoming a fan of Amy Forsyth who plays her daughter Carrie. Carolyn Holding and Andy Taken make cameos as Helen Astor and James ‘Rosy’ Roosevelt in the first episode.

Caroline Astor was born Caroline Webster Schermerhorn in 1830 into a wealthy family in the family home at 1 Greenwich Street (way downtown near Bowling Green). Her father’s family had been in New York for 200 years and her mother was a Van Courtlandt, a family that had also been on New York since the 1630’s. In other words Lena as she was called, was the epitome of old New York. At the time of her birth her father was worth $500,000 (about $15 million today). She married William Backhouse Astor Jr. at Trinity Church in 1853. Despite the Astor’s having more money than her family,. She brought the Knickerbocker pedigree to the marriage.

They had 5 children:

• Emily Astor, who married James John Van Alen and passed away at the age of 27
• Helen Schermerhorn-we’ll discuss her in bit
• Charlotte Augusta Astor, who married James Coleman Drayton. Their divorce was the scandal of 1892. She would later marry George Ogilvy Haig
• Caroline Schermerhorn “Carrie” Astor-More on her later
• John Jacob “Jack” Astor, who famously died on the Titanic survived by his 18 year old pregnant second wife Madeline Talmadge Force.

Like most women of her era, she spent the early years of her marriage raising her children and running her household. The difference was that Caroline had an inheritance, so she was less dependent on her husband than most woman at the time. In 1862 she built a brownstone townhouse at 350 5th Avenue, the current site of the Empire State Building. The house next door belonged to her brother-in-law John Jacob Astor III, which must have been awkward as she didn’t like his wife. She and her husband also built a “cottage” in Newport called Beechwood. Beechwood’s ballroom was large enough to fit 400 people, thus the term ‘The 400.’

In the years following the Civil War, New York’s population grew vastly due to the arrival of immigrants and new money families from other part of the United States. Caroline dominated society and acted as the gatekeeper for the upper crust of New York. She did eventually allow certain new money families into her inner circle such as the Vanderbilts (see my first blog for more info on that). Until 1887 she was considered THE Mrs. Astor. However with the hatesdsister-in-laws death, her nephew William Waldrof Astor expected his wife Mamie to take the title as he was now head of the family. But his wife was younger and not as socially powerful. In retaliation he moved to England (and later became a Viscount) and turned his house on 5th Avenue in to the Waldorf Hotel. The hotel was designed specifically to overshadow Caroline’s house. She famously said “There’s a glorified tavern next door.” Not to be outdone she tore down her house and built and built her own hotel, the Astoria. The hotels eventually merged to become the original Waldorf-Astoria. The hotel was torn down in 1928 to build the Empire State Building.

After leaving her brownstone, she settled with her son’s family in a new home on East 65th Street. She spent her last years battling dementia before dying in 1908. It took 3 women to take her place; Alva Belmont (the former Alva Vanderbilt), Mamie Fish, and Theresa Fair Oelriches.

Carrie Astor

Caroline Schermerhorn Astor was born in New York City in 1861 and and grew up in the brownstone on the corner of 34th Street and 5th Avenue. It was actually Carrie’s insistence own attending Alva Vanderbilt’s famous ball that elevated the Vanderbilt Family into proper society (see my first blog for more info). Carrie met Marshall Orme Wilson, of ‘The Marrying Wilsons’ in the early 1880’s and they fell in love. As he was the son of a Southern Civil War profiteer, he parents did not approve of the match. Reportedly Carrie starved herself until her mother gave in and agreed to let them marry. Their wedding took place at the Astor mansion and they would go on to have 2 sons; Marshall Orme Wilson Jr-who was Ambassador to Haiti under FDR, and Richard Thornton Wilson III. They lived in a house on 5th Avenue near her parents that was purchased for them by her father. After her marriage she became a leading society figure in her own right and shared Box 3 at the Metropolitan Opera with her sister-in-law Grace Vanderbilt rotating opening nights.

After her mother moved uptown, Carrie led the cotillion at the inaugural ball of Mrs. Astor’s new home. At this point Wilson had begun to built them their own new home one East 64th Street. When her husband died in 1926, he left her their home while her sons received the rest of the estate. Carrie outlived Wilson by 22 years and died at her son Richard’s home at 1 Sutton Place. After her death, her house was sold to the Indian government to house diplomats for $500,000.

Helen Astor

Not as much information is available about Helen as her sister Carrie. Helen was born in New York City in 1858 and married James ‘Rosy’ Roosevelt in 1878. They had 2 children; James Roosevelt “Tadd”Jr. and Helen Rebecca Roosevelt. She died at the age of 38 in the UK of unknown causes.

James “Rosy” Roosevelt

James ‘Rosy’ Roosevelt was born in 1854 to James Roosevelt I and his first wife Rebecca Brien Howland. After graduating from Columbia, President Grover Cleveland, who was his father’s friend appointed him first secretary of the US Legation in Vienna and then first secretary of the embassy in London. He married Helen Astor in 1878 and then had 2 children. When his father died in 1900, the estate was split between him and his half-brother Franklin. You may have heard of Franklin, he went on to become the 32nd President. He was remarried in 1914 to Elizabeth Riley and died at his Hyde Park home in 1927.

If you’re interested in exploring more of the Astor Family history there is a plethora of info on line and a lot of books you can check out. Stay tuned for my next blog where I’ll discuss the Downstairs members of The Gilded Age cast!

HBO’s The Gilded Age airs Mondays at 9pm and is streamable anytime on HBO Max

Just like the Russell Family, I discussed in my previous blog (check out the link here), both the Brook and Van Rhijn Families are fictional. The Brook family is most likely of English descent and the name Van Rhijn is clearly a nod to the early Dutch arrivals to New York. I haven’t been able to figure out who (if any at all) this family is based off, there aren’t such obvious inspirations like the Russells. I thought in this blog, I’ll comment on the characters themselves and highlight some of my favorite Gilded Age New York Families.

Marion Brook

Marion Brook played by Louisa Jacobson (Meryl Streep’s daughter) finds herself without any living immediate family in The Gilded Age’s first episode and is forced to move to New York City with her Aunts because her Father has left her penniless. Marion questions the rules of New York society and seems to want to pave her own path. Another young woman from a prominent family comes to mind; Edith Wharton.

Wharton was born Edith Newbold Jones in 1862 in New York City in her family’s brownstone on West 23rd Street. She was known as “Pussy Jones” to friends and family (which makes me giggle a little bit). Her family was very wealthy and socially connected. It is thought that the term “keeping up with the Joneses” originally refers to her father’s family. Her mother was the descendant of a French Huguenot who arrived in America in 1686. Her father was first cousins with THE Mrs. Astor and she was also related to the Renssalaers (the most prestigious of the old Dutch families in NYC). So we’re talking OLD money and lots of family connections.

Wharton spent much of her early life in Europe, and she was fluent in French, German, and Italian. As a young woman she rejected the standards of fashion and etiquette for young ladies of the era. Edith began writing and telling stories at young age and attempted to write her first novel at age 11 (even though her mother forbade her from reading novels until she was married). She had her first work published at 15 and had a bit of success, but put writing aside for a decade and participated in New York society and was presented in 1879. At the age of 23 she married Edward Robbins Wharton and they traveled extensively.

As an adult Edith found great success as a writer and is most well known for her novel “The Age of Innocence” (check out the 1993 Martin Scorsese adaptation when you’re craving some Gilded Age film. Scorsese claims it’s the most “violent” film he’s ever made – violence being in the emotional sense). She won the Pulitzer Prize for Literature for this novel, making her the first woman to do so. She was also nominated for the Nobel Prize for Literature 3 times. What makes Wharton’s point of view unique in her critiezation of the Gilded Age is that she was a part of society and had an inside view. She died in 1937, and her last novel, “The Buccaneers” was unfinished. There’s a great mini-series based off of the Buccaneers you can find on some streaming services, it is a personal favorite of mine!

Agnes Van Rhijn

Agnes Van Rhijn, played by the incomparable Christine Baranski, represents the old money traditions of New York City. She lives in a sensible brownstone in the Upper East Side and does not want to let the “new people” in. She follows the rules and constantly expresses her distaste with Marion’s refusal to see that there are some things that are “just not done.” She mentions in the first episode that she is related to the Livingston Family.

The Livingston Family migrated from Scotland to the Dutch Republics and then to New York in the 17th Century. Members include signers of the Declaration of Independence (Philip Livingston) and the Constitution (William Livingston), the wife of founding father John Jay (Sarah Livingston), a Secretary of State (Edward Livingston), the negotiator of the Louisiana Purchase (Robert R. Livingston), and many more in their massive family tree. Descendants of the Livingston’s include President George H.W. Bush and President George W. Bush, Eleanor Roosevelt, suffragette Elizabeth Cady Stanton, much of the Astor Family, New York Governor Hamilton Fish, New Jersey Governor William Livingston, members of the US Senate and House of Representatives, Montgomery Clift and Jane Wyatt. Without a doubt this family is the definition of old New York and politically connected.

Oscar Van Rhijn

Oscar Van Rhijn is the son of Agnes, (played by Blake Ritson) and when he’s not trying to weasel his way into theRussell house, he’s carrying on a secret love affair with a man. I’m enjoying the fact that a gay character is being featured, though I wish Fellowes focused more on his struggle with his sexuality as he did with the character of Thomas in Downton Abbey. Since Oscar seems tolike a good time, I thought I’d focus on the Whitney family, known for being major figures in the breeding and racing of thoroughbred horses.

The American branch of the Whitney family was by John Whitney when he traveled from London to Watertown, Massachusetts in 1635. William Collins Whitney is the family member who started the tradition of breeding and racing horses. He was also the US Secretary of the Navy. Other notable family members include: Gertrude Vanderbilt Whitney (who opened the Whitney Museum), Eli Whitney (inventor of the cotton gin and interchangeable musket parts), Amos Whitney (who founded Pratt & Whitney), sculptor Anne Whitney, Benson Whitney (Ambassador to Norway under George W. Bush), Richard Whitney (President of the New York Stock Exchange), John Hay Whitney (Ambassador to the UK under Eisenhower and publisher ion the New York Tribune), and a plethora of businessmen, socialites, and scholars.

Ada Brook

Ada Brook is Marion’s Aunt and Agnes’ sister. She is unmarried and basically lives at the mercy of her sister. Cynthia Nixon does a great job of creating a multifaceted character who is meek but has a heart of gold. As Agnes’ sister she would also be well connected socially and from an old American family. I thought I’d wrap up this blog by covering a family most people have now heard of, The Schuyler Family.

The Schuyler Family was founded by Philip Pietrese Schuyler in 1650 when he emigrated to what was then New Netherland. Member of the family played a critical role in the formation of America and have ties to the Livingston Family, the Oyster Bay Roosevelts, the Bush Family, the Van Cortlandt Family, and the Van Renssalaers. Philip Schuyler (Revolutionary War General and Us Senator), Angelica Schuyler (Google – “Hamilton: The Musical”), Elizabeth Schuyler (Alexander Hamilton’s wife) and many more influential early American figures., including; Pieter Schuyler (first Mayor of Albany), James De Lancey (Governor of New York), Pierre Van Cortlandt (first Lt. Governor of New York), Pierre Jr. and Philip Van Cortlandt (Members of the House of Representatives), and others, which honestly are too many to list.

If all these families seem to be related to each other, it is because, they were. Like European royalty, old families in New York rarely married outside a small group of people who where viewed as their peers. Wharton even comments on this in “Age of Innocence.” If you’re interested in learning about more of these old New York families, I’d do some research on “The Four Hundred.”

In my next blog I’ll discuss the infamous Astor Family. HBO’s The Gilded Age airs Mondays at 9pm and is streamable anytime on HBO Max.

When I first heard Julian Fellowes, creator of Downton Abbey, was writing a show about The Gilded Age in New York City, I was excited — extremely excited.

Then I found out it would be full of some of Broadway’s brightest stars and I felt, Fellowes, had created a show for me personally. Like he reached into my mind and pulled this show out of all the places that give me joy. The Gilded Age has always fascinated me and the time period is one of my personal favorites in American History. Many of my colleagues and friends who aren’t as familiar with the era have asked if the show is factual and if the characters are real. I decided discussing the characters and episodes in a blog would be a great way from people to find out! Let us first focus on one of the main families featured on the show, The Russells. The Russells are a fictional family, but even though they didn’t exist in real life, they are based off a real Gilded Age family, the Vanderbilts.

Bertha Russell

Bertha Russell, one of the main characters is clearly based off of real life society leader Alva Vanderbilt, who later became Alva Belmont. I’ll admit that my early obsession with the Gilded Age (the era, not the TV Show) revolved greatly around the Vanderbilt Family, so it was very easy to identify the influence here. Born into an aristocratic Southern Family, Alva married William Kissam Vanderbilt in 1875. William was the Grandson of “Commodore” Cornelius Vanderbilt, one of the richest men in America (and possibly the inspiration for The Gilded Age character George Russell). Like Bertha, Alva built a grand house on 5th Avenue taking up an entire city block (though her home was on 52nd Street, not 61st where the Russells live). This house would ultimately lead to Alva’s acceptance into society, as she threw a masquerade ball to christen the house in 1883 with over 1,000 guests. Contemporary reports say the ball cost $250,000 ($6 million today) with $65,000 spent on champagne alone. An often repeated story tells that Vanderbilt felt she had been snubbed by Caroline Astor, queen of elite of New York society, so she purposely neglected to send an invitation to Astor’s popular daughter, Carrie. Supposedly, this forced Astor to come calling, in order to secure an invitation to the ball for her daughter.

Astor did in fact pay a social call on Vanderbilt and she and her daughter were guests at the ball, effectively giving the Vanderbilt family society’s official acceptance (Vanderbilt and Astor were observed at the ball in animated conversation). Both Carrie and Caroline are characters in the show, and Alva herself is mentioned as “having broken in to society.”

Alva would go on to divorce her husband and was subsequently snubbed by society. Shortly after, she forced her daughter Consuelo into a loveless marriage with the Duke of Marlborough. Some say she did this as a way to ensure her daughter had some autonomy as British peeresses were able to lead more full lives than their American counterparts. Others said she selfishly wanted to sell her daughter off to a titled Brit to gain more social clout in America. This was a very popular trend during the Gilded Age and the term “Dollar Princesses” was coined. Alva would later marry Oliver Belmont and became very involved in the American Suffragette movement.

George Russell

Like Bertha, George Russell seems to be based off of a major member of the Vanderbilt Family. In his case it is “Commodore” Cornelius Vanderbilt. When Vanderbilt died in 1877, he left an estate of $105 million ($2.8 billion today) making him one of richest men in American history. Vanderbilt was the definition of “new money.” Born on Staten Island in 1784, he quit school young and at the age of sixteen borrowed $100 from his mother to begin a ferrying business taking passengers and goods between Staten Island and Manhattan. He later expanded into steamboats and purchasing real estate as a young adult, eventually taking over operation of the Staten Island Ferry. As the 19th Century rolled on, he began to operate transatlantic voyages and bought control of a major shipyard

In the 1850’s he was put on the board of directors of several railroads and was elected President of the Harlem Line in 1863. A year later he sold all his ships to focus on the railroad industry. In 1869 he constructed Grand Central Depot to serve the Harlem line. This was replaced in 1913 by the current Grand Central Terminal.

Like George Russell, Cornelius Vanderbilt was a cutthroat business man, but unlike Russell he didn’t have aspirations of being accepting into New York society. He was know to spit his chewing tobacco in the vases at dinner parties and was very unrefined, to put It mildly. Traits I doubt we will see from George as the show progresses.

Larry Russell

Larry Russell, son of George and Bertha, seems to have a resemblance to yet another member of the Vanderbilt clan, Cornelius Vanderbilt III. Larry seems to see right through his mother and carries disdain for her social ambitions and follows his own path. Cornelius Vanderbilt III (Great-Grandson of the Commodore) was actually disinherited and shunned by his parents. When he was twenty-three, he married Grace Graham Wilson (of the “marrying Wilsons,” look them up, they were a very interesting family) against his parents wishes and was cut off financially and emotionally. He loved machinery and would go on to earn a Masters in Engineering from Yale. He patented more than thirty inventions relating to locomotives and freight cars which brought him substantial royalties. During World War I he served as a Brigadier General with the National Guard, receiving the Army’s Distinguished Service Medal. After the War he frequently visited Europe, becoming friends with European royalty like Kaiser Wilhelm II. He died on his yacht in 1942 at the age of 68.

Gladys Russell

As with the entire Russell Clan, Gladys Russell is very much based off of Consuelo Vanderbilt, Alva’s daughter. Of all the books and research I’ve read on the Vanderbilt Family, I’ve read the most about Consuelo, and Gladys is a dead ringer character wise. Consuelo had a very strict upbringing that was often borderline abusive. As an heiress, there were many men who pursued her, but her mother was determined for her daughter to marry into the British peerage and have a title. Her mother engineered a marriage between Consuelo and Charles Spencer-Churchill, the Duke of Marlborough. Consuelo had no interest in the Duke and became secretly engaged to Winthrop Rutherford. Her mother ordered and threatened her, even locking her in her room at one point. It wasn’t until Alva claimed Consuelo’s actions had given her a heart attack that the engagement with Rutherford was called off.

She married the Duke in 1895 and apparently stood at the alter weeping. Marlborough collected $2.5 million ($72.5 million today) as a dowry and was able to restore the crumbling Blenheim Palace. Consuelo and the Duke unsurprisingly had an unhappy marriage and divorced in 1921. The marriage was later annulled and when the Duke converted to Catholicism, Alva testified that she forced her daughter into the marriage. Mother and daughter maintained a much better relationship following this admission. Thou no longer married to the Duke, she maintained relationships with some of her favorite Churchill relatives, including Winston Churchill.

Consuelo would go on to marry French aviator Jacques Balsam and build a home in Florida called Casa Alva in honor of her mother. In 1953 she wrote an autobiography “The Glitter and the Gold” and died in Long Island in 1964.

Stay tuned for my next blog! I’ll delve into the show’s old money family, the Van Rhijns. Happy watching fellow history lovers! HBO’s The Gilded Age airs Monday’s ay 9pm and is streamable anytime on HBO Max.

NYC during the holidays presents an overwhelming amount of places that
make for amazing picture backdrops.

With so much to do and so little time, we’ve compiled our 10 favorite holiday picture spots (5 of which can be seen on our Holiday Tour)!

1. Pulitzer Fountain

Donated to the city by Joseph Pulitzer’s estate and installed in 1916, this beautiful fountain sits right across the street from the famed Plaza Hotel in Grand Army Plaza (right next to Central Park). This year’s decorations feature handcrafted animal sculptures, icebergs, and 5,000 feet of lights. Bonus: You can walk down 5th Avenue and stop at all the holiday instillations.

2. Saks 5th Avenue

Through January 4, 2022

The iconic windows at the famous 5th Avenue retailer are “inspired by the theme of reconnecting with family and loved ones during the holiday season.” They asked children living in NYC to draw and describe their holiday dreams and then had amazing artists and engineers bring them to life in their windows. The famous sparkling lights show (which features 700,000 LED lights on their 10 story tall store) features Christmas classics like Darlene Love’s ‘Christmas-Baby Please Come Home.”

3. Rockefeller Center

Through January 2, 2022

Christmas as Rockefeller Center has become a NYC tradition ever since 1931 when Depression-era construction workers erected a 20 foot balsam fir and decorated it with home-made ornaments like tin cans. This year, America’s most famous tree comes from Elkton, Maryland (this first time the state has been represented), and features 5 miles of lights as well a Swarovski star weighing about 900 pounds!

4. Bryant Park

Through January 2, 2022

The Bryant Park Winter Villag

e is modeled after the winter villages that are very popular in Central Europe. Starting in 2002, the village was built to bring people to the park during the winter months. The booths feature local and handmade goods as well as food from some of the trendiest restaurants in the city. The skating rink is free, and they put up their own tree up, though this one is at the most 50 feet.

5. Macy’s

The annual holiday window displays at the Macy’s in 34th is a time honored tradition here in New York, Each year, Macy’s creates a brand new display for the holiday season. The window decorations take all year to plan and over a month to build. This year’s windows introduce “Tiptoe,” a reindeer recruit for Santa Claus as she sets out to follow her dream of joining Santa’s sleigh team.

6. Rolf’s

A German restaurant located in the Gramercy Park neighborhood, Rolf’s has become known for their elaborate decorations (that will be kept up all year!). Grab a beer, eat some schnitzel, and post on the gram!

7. Empire State Building

Once the world’s tallest building, the Empire State Building has become one of the most photographed in the city. The building is lit up to celebrate the holiday season, so it’s a great opportunity to take a holiday selfie!

8. Dyker Heights

Through New Year’s Eve

This Brooklyn neighborhood is home to some of the most over-the-top holiday decorations like life-sized Santa’s, sleighs, snowman, and music from loudspeakers. Some companies offer buses that take you to the neighborhood, but for budget travelers, the subway is a great option!

9. Natural History Museum Origami Tree

Through January 9, 2022

Since the 1970’s the Natural History Museum has presented an origami tree. For this 50th “Golden Anniversary” Tree, the theme is Gems of the Museum. It features 50 specifically created gold-colored models. Among the more than 1,000 pieces, the 13 foot tree has pieces inspired by the new exhibit Sharks!

10. Holiday Train Show

Through January 23, 2022

Returning for its 30th year, the Bronx Botanical Garden’s Holiday Train show has become a personal holiday tradition which I recommend to all of my guests. Model trains zip through a display featuring more than 175 NYC landmarks such as the Statue of Liberty, the Brooklyn Bridge, and Rockefeller Center. The display is made from organic material like bark, twigs, and leaves which makes the display even more impressive.

TopDog Tours Holiday Tour is Featured by Travel + Leasure

There were quite a few shows that closed during previews that are now getting the chance for a real run, and a few that we are excited to see open next year.

As a Musical Theatre major, I’m a little biased and am very excited about the 5 musicals I’ve listed below.

Mrs. Doubtfire

I had the pleasure of seeing this show in tryouts in Seattle in January of 2020 before Covid. I immediately fell in love with this re-imagined version of the 1993 classic which starred Robin Williams as a divorced Father dressing up as a Scottish nanny to spend time with his children. Directed by Broadway legend Jerry Zaks and starring Rob McClure (Chaplin, Beetlejuice, Honeymoon in Vegas) the show has been beautifully updated for a 2021 audience. I recently got the chance to see it in previews and loved it even more as the creative team made some great changes to the show. The music is fun, and the story of a man who goes to great lengths to be with his family is even more poignant to me than it was In 2019 as I’m now a Mother. Rob Mclure does a fantastic job of making the role of Daniel his own (not an easy task as Robin Williams was such a tour de force in the movie) and I’d be shocked if he doesn’t receive a Tony nomination for his performance.

Stephen Sondheim Theatre

Currently in previews, opens December 5

Six

I have to admit when I first heard the concept for this show I was VERY skeptical. The idea of Henry VIII’s wives starring in a pop concert made me want to run for the hills. Then I listened to the soundtrack. The songs are very catchy and will absolutely get stuck in your head. They also find a way to teach the audience the stories of the famous six wives (get it?) without feeling like you’re sitting in history class. The all female cast has incredible vocals and features 3 people making their Broadway debut (which is always very exciting). At 80 minutes (with no intermission) this show is perfect for audience members who want to make the most of their time in the city.

Brooks Atkinson Theatre

Currently Running

Company

A revival of Stephen Sondheim’s 1970 show about the ultimate NYC single man Bobby who is encouraged by the “good and crazy people” his married friends to settle down, this new version features female Bobbie, a single woman in her mid 30’s living in modern day New York. The cast has been updated for 2021 and now features multi-racial and same gender couples as Bobbi’s friends. This is a transfer from London where it received great reviews. The cast is led by Katrina Lenk (Tony Winner for The Band’s Visit) as Bobbi and Broadway royalty Patti LuPone as Joanne. If nothing else, there are 2 reasons to see this show, and both are songs. Who would want to turn down the chance to see Patti sing “The Ladies Who Lunch,” where I am very sure people will actually “rise” at the end. The other is to see an amazing actress like Lenk tackle the finale song “Being Alive” which in my opinion is one of the most perfect musical theatre sings ever written.

Bernard B. Jacobs Theatre

Previews begin November 15, opens December 9

The Music Man

Jerry Zaks helms his 2nd production of the season with what promises to be an amazing revival of the classic musical The Music Man. If this is half as good as his 2017 Hello Dolly, audiences are in for an evening of Broadway at its best. Choreographed by Warren Carlyle (who teamed with Zaks on Dolly and has choreographed other classics on Broadway like Kiss Me Kate and She Loves Me) the show stars Sutton Foster as everyone’s favorite librarian Marion Paroo and Hugh Jackman as conman/salesman/band leader Harold Hill. One thing that stands out to me right away is the size of the cast. In today’s world of scaled back budget shows, Music Man will have a large cast with a substantial sized ensemble, something that is very rare these days. I’m personally very excited for this production as Music Man is one of my favorite musicals and I’ve never had the chance to see a professional production before.

Winter Garden Theatre

Previews begin December 20, opens February 10

MJ the Musical

These days it seems that Broadway audiences are presented with several Jukebox musicals per season, and most recently the trend is biopic jukebox musicals (a term coned by my husband and fellow TopDogTours Guide Patrick Kelly). We’ve had the Cher Show, Tina, Summer, and Aint Too Proud on the Great White Way over the last few years. This season’s MJ the Musical seems to be fit into the mold these musicals all seem to follow. There is a young version of the music star and we watch them rise to fame and struggle with everything that means. What makes me excited about this production are a few things. Newcomer Myles Frost makes his Broadway Debut as Michael Jackson, and I am always about brand new talent leading a show as it is something that doesn’t not happen very much. I’m also a huge fan of Jackson’s much and you KNOW the dancing in the show is going to be insane.

Neil Simon Theatre

Previews begin December 6, opens February 1

• 0:00 Introduction to New York Holiday Landmarks
• 0:23 St. Patrick’s Cathedral and the Historical Origins of Christmas
• 1:34 New York Christmas Firsts
• 1:54 St. Patrick’s Cathedral Midnight Mass History
• 2:35 Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree History
• 4:27 Radio City Music Hall History
• 4:48 The Rockettes History
• 5:56 Bryant Park History
• 6:30 Bryant Park Winter Village
• 6:57 Macy’s Store History
• 8:02 Macy’s Day Parade History
• 9:08 Macy’s Holiday Window Display

To understand why John Wilkes Booth decided to gather a group of conspirators together on Good Friday 1865 to undermine the nation – killing the president alongside the failed assassinations of other members of his cabinet – one must look towards his life on the stage.

John Wilkes Booth was beloved by all, especially women, as a strikingly handsome figure with a face audience members would drop money just to look at, regardless of what show was on the playbill. He was also a bigot who considered African-Americans less than human and was furious that Lincoln would grant freed slaves their citizenship. Can’t forget that part. Yet, while John’s name is rather well-known today and even immortalized by theatrical legend Stephen Sondheim in his musical Assassins, he found himself overshadowed in life by his brother Edwin.

Calling Edwin Booth “The Other Booth Brother” during his lifetime would have been considered heresy. Not only was Edwin considered one of the great stage legends of his time but a performer who took his time with the language of Shakespeare. This would be a stark contrast to his father Junius Brutus Booth who spent much of his time on stage as a human tempest running around and swinging swords at ensemble members. “Fight call” was not a thing back in these days. While contemporary critics would praise Booth as a superior actor with a natural gift for the stage, his younger brother John was just a handsome face. It would not be fair to say that Edwin Booth incidentally found himself as his brother’s better. It was both their family circumstances and Edwin’s own financial decisions that would create a great divide between the two brothers that would never be healed.

Edwin Booth never had a childhood. He said so himself, saying that his boyhood days ended when he was conscripted by his mother Mary Ann Holmes to accompany his father on his theatrical tours. This was not so Edwin could have bonding time with his father but so he could look after Junius to make sure he did not drink away his earnings the family sorely needed. Not only were there bills to pay, but Junius’s first wife had moved from England to Baltimore so she could petition for divorce against Junius who had left her and her son to marry Mary Ann, a flower girl from Covent Garden, with whom he had ten illegitimate children. Marie Christine Adelaide Delannoy, the first wife, would terrorize the Booth family by following Mary and her children around Baltimore and screaming to anyone who had no choice but to listen that these children were bastards.

The silver lining, if any, that Edwin could look forward to while playing the role of his alcoholic father’s guilty conscience was that he could learn the craft of acting at his father’s knee, even if he was asleep. One of Edwin’s first breakout rules at the age of sixteen was when he replaced his father as Richard III because Junius was too drunk to go on. Reviews were glowing. John could not help but feel that even if he could not see what his brother had to deal with from Junius it must have been a vacation compared to look after the Booth homestead where a strange woman kept following him and his family around calling them bastards. To make matters worse, when Edwin decided on a tour of California to stay so he could become his own man he had forsaken his role as his father’s keeper and sent Junius to travel home by himself. Junius never survived the trip.

Now indirectly responsible for his father’s death, something John and the rest of the family was keenly aware of, Edwin had little time to mourn as his star skyrocketed. At the same time, John sought to get into the acting profession himself but was kneecapped by Edwin. A border was drawn up across the country, several years before Fort Sumter and the Civil War, where Edwin would work all the more financially viable theaters in the North while John could have the theaters in the South which were often less profitable. This led to John spending much time in the south and at a perfect position to be scouted by the Confederate Secret Service towards conspiring against the President.

To really sink the knife in, the only time John was onstage with his brothers Edwin and Junius Jr. – Junius Jr. mostly kept to himself since his absence until now – was a production of Julius Caesar where John was denied the opportunity to play Brutus. Edwin claimed that John was not famous enough to play the assassin. A few months later when John Wilkes Booth shoots Lincoln he dives onto the stage, breaks his leg in the process and screams out to the audience what was identified as “Sic Semper Tyrannis!” While that is the Virginia state motto and can easily be a final cry from the Confederacy it also has a theatrical root. It’s Brutus’s line. Thus comes the theory that when John shot Lincoln he took one last curtain call so he could scream out to his brother “Who’s the famous assassin now?”

Edwin Booth’s career would soldier on in Shakespearean classics like Romeo and Juliet as well as a career defining Hamlet. But Edwin Booth’s final years would be spent at the Player’s Club by Gramercy Park where Edwin would surround himself with greats like JP Morgan, General William Sherman, Mark Twain, and the like. His final years, as well as the Player’s Club and the saga of the Booths themselves can best be explored on TopDogTours’ Gramercy tour which includes the only tour of the Player’s Club available to the public. See the artifacts that shaped Edwin’s life and rediscover one of the largest names in theater, a name that has been largely overshadowed by the actions of his brother.

New York’s wealthy elite took to the charming area just North-East of Union Square in the 1880s.

During what is now known as the Gilded Age, the wealthy top tier of NYC society lived in lavish mansions and brownstones while a large percentage of the population lived in abject poverty. Constantly trying to carve a piece of the city for themselves out of sight from the poor, the neighborhood of Gramercy came to be a permanent home for wealthy and powerful individuals. Today the area is still full of well-to-do residents but now is also known for its cultural centers and clubs. One of the first and most important contributions still remains: The Players Club.

Inside the Players Club

Located at No. 16 Gramercy Park South sits a lovely Gothic Revival mansion with two large gas lights flanking the entrance. A large metal plaque of comedy and tragedy masks surrounded by bronze rays gives a clue to the people who call this club a home away from home. Built for actors, the Players Club gets its name from the once-common name for performers. Established New Years Eve 1888 by Edwin Booth, the most famous actor of his day. Booth elevated the status of the American actor.

At a time when actors were considered ruffians and second-class citizens, the fame and career of Edwin Booth changed everything for the art form. The club was very exclusive and still is to this day. Booth wanted to make the club not solely for performers but wanted to use his connections to esteemed men of other professions to mix and mingle amongst the actors, a genius move to ensure the reputation of actors as dedicated and worldly people deserving to enter the upper crust of polite society. Even the stuffy residents of Gramercy could not complain about all these actors hanging around if Edwin Booth was their friend. The other members were quick to donate art, books, and other curious artifacts to make the club into a form of museum. Each space in the clubhouse is unique, offering a look into the profession of theatre and into the lives of its many members over 130 years.

The Grill

An active restaurant for members to grab a bite and a chat with their fellow player, the grill also features a large pool table and cues on the wall. Up above the fireplace you can see original member Mark Twain’s personal pool cue. For artwork, typically you will find caricatures, many done by legendary Al Hirshfeld. There is even a Hirshfeld caricature of Booth, the only one he made for a person who was no longer alive. Also you can find the Players Bar and in the back, the ladies room is known as Lucile’s Loo for Lucille Lortel; known as the Queen of Off-Broadway! Head up the stairs to the impressive main hall for more artwork.

The Main Hall

This grand hall features a gorgeous 20-ton white marble fireplace designed by famed architect and member Stanford White, who converted the original 1844 building into the club. He was hand-selected by Booth for his remarkable achievements in the field of architecture. White worked the Players’ seal of the comedy and tragedy masks into the fireplace.

Above is a large portrait of not Edwin Booth but his father Junius Brutus Booth. The elder Booth was an esteemed actor in England but had a troubled life once he left for America with his 19-year-old mistress (Edwin’s mother). While he performed all over the country, his son Edwin was selected to follow him along since his drinking had become so bad he needed to be chaperoned. Sometimes he had to perform in his wake if he was incapacitated. Although Edwin had a complicated relationship with his father, the prominent placement of this portrait suggests the respect and love he had for the man. The room also features several other portraits, including a large portrait of Edwin Booth as Hamlet, the role he was most known for. Today the Main Hall is used for receptions and gatherings. Traditional black-tie events like the annual Players Founders’ Night and for Edwin Booth’s birthday usually begin here.

The Kinstler Room

The most represented artist at the Players is Everett Raymond Kinstler. Known as Ray to many of the members, he painted dozens of the portraits that adorn the walls of the club today. In this room you will find the likeness of Katherine Hepburn, James Cagney, and strikingly realistic portrait of Christopher Plummer. The only painting that is not a Kintsler in this room is the large copy of a portrait of Edwin Booth done by original member John Singer Sargent. Also see a selection of Booth’s own props and you can step out on the balcony and get an amazing view of Gramercy Park.

The Booth Room

Head to the third floor to see the most incredible part of the Players Club. Aside from all the amazing art and performance spaces in the club, the Booth room shows the private side of one of the most famous men who ever lived. This small bedroom was filled with the few things Booth collected after a life on the road. It is surprisingly humble. His bed, the very one he died in on April 7th 1893, is small. There is a small cot where his daughter Edwina stayed beside him until he passed. You can see her portrait right across the room from the bed, where Edwin could always see her. A touching bronze cast of their hands sits on the table. You can also see his vast pipe collection and believe it or not, you can still smell how much he loved smoking tobacco- the odor lingers. There are other portraits of photos of his family members, including the only picture of his infamous brother John Wilkes Booth you can find here. By Edwin Booth’s wishes, his name was never to be spoken in the club’s walls.

Besides these rooms there are many others to visit including one of the best performing arts libraries in the country, a small cabaret stage, and you can even find Mark Twain’s favorite poker table! The club is private and members only, so to get access you need to know a member or you can take a tour with Top Dog Tours, one of the only companies allowed to operate inside the club.

Book a tour of the Players Club today!

Many tourists avoid NYC in the winter months because they think it won’t be any fun in the cold.

But NYC is always a good time and there are a lot of benefits to visiting in February and March. Even if the temperatures are frigid, there is still plenty to do. Here are some ideas for your next winter trip!

1. Visit the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island

It seems like the activity you would want to do least this season but winter is one of the best times to go to the Statue. It can be very cold but since there are way less people visiting each day, it is a breeze to get on and off Liberty Island. If you can find a clear winter morning during your trip, you will get some of the most amazing photos- with less people in the background too! It is always best to go in the morning, but most times of year you need to be there by 9:30 AM at the latest otherwise it turns into a zoo, but in the winter you could go a bit later and sleep in a little more. A few things to keep in mind for a smooth trip: the boats leave every forty minutes so try to be where you need to be a few minutes early, otherwise you run the risk of having to wait for the next one. Bundle up since it can be windy on the island but other than that you can have the place mostly to yourself. The Ellis Island Museum admission is included with your ticket and is indoors so it’s a great place to spend a chilly day. With much less people around the museum tends to be more impactful and you can see everything much faster.

2. Get lunch or dinner in Chinatown

Chinatown is a popular destination for New Yorkers and tourists alike. In the summer, wait times at popular Chinese restaurants like the Nam Wah Tea Parlor and Joe’s Shanghai can be very long. During the winter though, you can almost always get a table anywhere. The streets in Chinatown are old and very narrow in some spots, it fills up very quickly and it can be frustrating getting past all the people. In the winter it’s much easier to walk down the street. You will notice a lot less tourists and more locals. Also steaming hot noodles, egg drop soup, and dumplings just taste better when it’s cold out.

3. Visit a Museum

It seems obvious, but museums are a great place to spend a cold afternoon. If you have always wanted to see classic museums like the Museum and Natural History and the Metropolitan Museum of Art it really is best to go in the off season. In the summer, people end up forfeiting tickets they purchased since the line to get in to redeem them is simply too long. It is still a good idea to avoid the weekends since many more people come out, especially the NYC families taking advantage of the slow season. Also consider going to one of NYC’s lesser known museums, there is one for every kind of person on your trip. The kids will love any of the 5 boroughs children’s museums (Staten Island has a really nice one if you feel like being really adventurous!). History buffs will love the New York Historical Society, NYC’s oldest museum. Of course there are plenty of art museums; consider the Guggenheim or the Museum of Modern Art if you have never been. Some other off-the-beaten-track options include the NY Transit Museum (for subway aficionados), The Morgan Library (great for art and architecture), or the Science Museum. No matter what you choose you will not be dissapointed!

4. Go to Central Park (especially if it is snowing!)

If you notice a snowstorm in the middle of your trip, fear not. NYC gets snow frequently but we typically do not get many inches at once. While it can be messy to get around and it is probably not the best day to go to Times Square or to the Statue of Liberty, it’s the best time to go to Central Park! The park is amazing and worth a visit any time, but it is magical walking around in the snow. Even if it’s cold you will see a lot of people out, but while lots of people in one place can be a recipe for frustration anywhere else in the city, Central Park is big enough for them all and it’s so fun to people watch. You can see kids and cute dogs playing in the snow. It is the only place that is any fun to walk in the snow!

5. Visit the New York Public Library

Visiting the library, a typical rainy day activity you can do at home turns into an adventure in NYC. Next to Bryant Park and very close to Times Square and Rockefeller Center the New York Public Library is easy to find. It is a massive building with two larger than life lions at the entrance. Inside you can find the real stuffed animals that inspired Winnie the Pooh. You can also find beautiful art and several rotating exhibits. You might even see some oddball artifacts like George Washington’s recipe for beer and Charles Dickens’s favorite letter opener! If you have never visited this amazing NYC landmark before, this winter could be the perfect time!

“Don’t be super concerned with the cold weather,” says Liz, a tour guide with Top Dog. “We keep moving, our stops are short and interesting, you won’t be standing there shivering while the guide drones on about history. Our groups are smaller as well and we can tailor the tour to what the guests are interested in. We often get some of our best feedback during the winter.”

Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island Small Group Tour

“Visited Lady Liberty and Ellis Island on a cold, cloudy, rainy day. We really enjoyed the trip. Low crowds and no trouble seeing everything we wanted to. Liz helped us beat the lines, told us where to stand on the boat for great statue views, and taught us a lot about both sites. And she’s smart and fun. Happy we booked this tour.” – Eric L.

Three Neighborhoods Small Group Walking Tour

“Patrick our tour guide was welcoming, informative, and entertaining during our tour of the 3 New York neighborhoods. The history was interesting even with the wet and cold weather. We were introduced to “cronuts” and the delicious dumplings. Thank you Patrick – we definitely recommend your tour.”

To make your winter trip even better call (718) 806-1706 or visit topdogtoursnyc.com.

How To Enjoy a Drink and Maybe Pen the Next Great American Novel.

For a good chunk of history, writing and boozing have gone hand in hand. Some of the best books to ever have been written were penned because of, in dedication of, or in spite of the Devil’s drink. According to Lewis Hyde, four of the six Americans who have won the Nobel Prize for Literature were alcoholics: namely William Faulkner, Eugene O’Neill, Ernest Hemingway and John Steinbeck. It comes as no surprise, then, that in the last century, if you had wandered into one of the many booze-soaked bars New York has to offer, you may have ended up sharing a tipple with a great American author. And luckily for us, many of these fine establishments are still around. Whether to drink at tables where many groundbreaking books were thought up, or to write your very own masterpiece, here are five fantastic literary bars you really shouldn’t miss exploring.

Chumley’s

Chumley’s is a drinking establishment with a frankly brilliant history to it. It started it’s life in 1922 as a Speakeasy by Lee Stanford Chumley, where patrons could snag a drink away from the prying eyes of the law enforcement. It is said that Chumley’s is where the term to ’86 it’ comes from, as next door was 86 Bedford St and the police would call ahead before a raid, to tell their bartender to ’86’ his customers, meaning have them exit via the 86 Bedford St. door, as the Police would be coming to the Pamela Court entrance, so no-one would be caught. The facade of the building collapsed in 2007, which led to it being closed for just under 10 years, until it reopened in 2016 with a complete refurbishment. If you head in there today, they still have all the covers of books written by authors who once drank in the bar adorning the walls. These include Jack Kerouac, Ernest Hemingway, Edna St. Vincent Millay, William Faulkner, e.e. cummings, John Steinbeck, Willa Cather, Theodore Dreiser, Ring Lardner, Eugene O’Neill and John Dos Passos to name but a few. For most of it’s history Chumley’s was a rather dank, dark dive bar, but after it’s refurbishment, it has reopened as a more upmarket restaurant and cocktail bar, so if you come here expect to pay a pretty penny. Chumley’s is featured on our Ghost Tour, if you want to hear more about the building and a spooky story or two, too!

White Horse Tavern

If you are looking for something more affordable with as much literary history to boot, you can’t really go wrong with the White Horse Tavern in the West Village. It has been run continuously since 1880 and so is vying for the title of the second-oldest bar in NYC. It is here where apparently in November 1953, after a massive bender, the poet Dylan Thomas stopped in to have his very last drinks on the way back to the Chelsea Hotel before passing away. It’s where the Beat poets liked to drink, and where locals mixed with the early folk music scene of the 1950s and 1960s. The likes of James Baldwin, Anaïs Nin, Bob Dylan, Norman Mailer and Hunter S. Thompson were often spotted drinking late into the night here. Jack Kerouac was famously chucked out of the bar on several occasions, and wrote that he spotted ‘Go home Jack’ written all over the urinals. Kerouac was, of course, the creator of the Beatnik movement and to find out more about them, the Bohemians and the folk scene which were all happening down in the Village, it’s worth checking out our Greenwich Village Tour.

Pete’s Tavern

Another bar with pressed-tin ceilings and a strong literary history but with a more ornate feel than the White Horse, is Pete’s Tavern, located near Gramercy Park. Dating back to 1864, Pete’s claims to be the oldest continuously operating bar/restaurant in the whole of New York City. And with a history that long, at some point a writer is going to have stumbled through its doors looking to quench their thirst. One such man was William Sydney Porter, also known as O. Henry, who is said to have written his well-known story ‘The Gift of the Magi’ here in the second booth from the front door. Pete’s Tavern actually appears in another of O. Henry’s, called ‘The Lost Blend’ under the name ‘Kenealy’s’, paying homage to it’s name at the time, which was Healy’s. Another writer was Ludwig Bemelmans who wrote the first Madeline book here, apparently on the back of a menu. Today, Pete’s Tavern offers a casual drinking spot with great Italian eats, and is a great place to stop off after you’ve taken our Gramercy Park Tour.

The Algonquin Hotel

For a taste of something a little different, why not try the Alonquin Hotel? One of midtown’s grand old hotels and a world away from the cheaper, dive-y literary bars of the Village, the Algonquin offers a rich literary history and luxurious surroundings to match. To this day, you can sit at the Round Table where the 1920s writing/theatrical group, The Vicious Circle (composed of members such as Dorothy Parker, Alexander Woollcott and Robert Benchley) used to meet with such frequency that their name changed to match the table they were sat at. The Round Table was comprised of playwrights, critics, columnists and authors. One being Harold Ross who won so much money from other members of the Vicious Circle in a game of poker that he used the proceeds to start the New Yorker magazine with Parker as a book reviewer and Benchley as the drama critic. The Hotel’s Blue Bar is a must-see for visiting literary historians and for a martini, and no trip to the Algonquin is complete without seeing the plush surroundings of the hotel’s lobby, including a mini-chaise lounge for the Hotel’s resident cat.

McSorley’s Old Ale House

Last but not least has to be McSorley’s Old Ale House. Established in 1854, McSorley’s rivals Pete’s Tavern for the oldest bar in New York, because records seem to suggest it was closed for a spell in the 1860s, so Pete’s lays claim to the title. A great place for decent pub food, two types of ale (no literally – that’s all they serve here) and memorabilia that hasn’t been taken off the walls since at least 1910, McSorley’s generally rates in the top historic bars in New York to visit. It’s literary past is vast, in 1923 e.e. cummings penned ‘i was sitting in mcsorley’s’, it was the subject of Joseph Mitchell’s New Yorker collection of stories ‘McSorley’s Wonderful Saloon’ (1943) and its patrons ran the gamut of writers to presidents, including Abraham Lincoln, Ulysses S. Grant. Teddy Roosevelt, Peter Cooper, Boss Tweed, Woody Guthrie, Hunter S. Thompson, Brendan Behan, Paul Blackburn, LeRoi Jones, Christopher Morley, Gilbert Sorrentino, George Jean Nathan, Dave Van Ronk, Wavy Gravy and even Dustin Hoffman.

Though these are some of my favorites, New York’s history is long and eclectic, so you are bound to find bars rich in literary history all over the city. Some honorable mentions include:

• Bemelman’s Bar in the Carlyle Hotel
• Kettle of Fish
• KGB Bar
• Old Town Bar
• Rose Club Bar at the Plaza Hotel
• Minetta Tavern
• Caffe Dante

People cannot get enough of John Wick.

Between the three movies, the upcoming fourth installment, spinoffs, video games, and inexplicable inclusion in Fortnite, John Wick has relaunched Keanu Reeves’ career and turned into the action sleeper hit of the past five years. But Derek Kolstad’s franchise is not just a rollicking good time full of blood, bullets, and regret over having to regress into the cold-blooded lifestyles we swore we’d forgo because Theon Greyjoy from Game of Thrones killed your dog. It also provides a perfect opportunity to visit New York City to see where they filmed everything! Problem though. Maybe your partner would rather not spend the holidays in New York City tracing the path of Hollywood’s most famous killer. Maybe you have kids who are not old enough to watch Keanu Reeves kill a guy with a pencil. All reasonable concerns. So how can you enjoy a stay in New York that’s family friendly while indulging in the dark underside of Manhattan you’ve seen on screen. Thankfully, TopDogTours NYC has you covered. Also, spoilers, for all three installments of the Wick films.

The Continental

The Continental is John Wick’s most iconic location: a hotel for assassins where they can drink scotch, make eyes at other assassins, and hang out with Lance Reddick while they take care of “business” in the heart of the Financial District. Lucky for us – The Continental is two locations. The first is The Beaver Building located at 1 Wall Street Court where all the exterior scenes were shot. Interior scenes were filmed at nearby DelMonico’s at 2 South William Street. It makes sense that DelMonico’s is the site of The Continental because both are ridiculously trendy institutions. You won’t be able to pay in gold coins at Del Monico’s but you can pay (oh my god will you pay) to try famous American dishes they’ve innovated like the eggs benedict, Manhattan clam chowder and of course the famous Delmonico steak, or as you know it, a ribeye. DelMonico’s can be glimpsed on TopDog’s Downtown tour.

Bethesda Terrace

This next location sits in the heart of Central Park. No, that’s not the Friends fountain, that’s Bethesda Fountain located on Bethesda Terrace! It’s been featured in pretty much every film that shot in Central Park. Billy Crystal and Bruno Kirby jog by here in When Harry Met Sally and, on the diametrical end of the film spectrum, the upper level is where Thor teleports away with Loki at the end of the first Avengers movies. It’s a beautiful sight during the day – especially the statue of an angel crafted by Emma Stebbins who is the first woman to be commissioned by the city for a public art piece. But at night the Terrace fills a different role. Should any assassin like Adrianne Palicki’s Ms. Perkins overstep the rules of The Continental this is where Winston (Ian McShane) summons rulebreakers to be killed.

Bethesda Terrace makes a return at the unforgettable end of John Wick: Chapter 2 when Wick is called by Winston here during the day to answer for shooting Santino D’Antonio in the Continental, breaking the hotel’s no-kill policy. Winston takes some mercy on John giving the assassin a head start before he calls in a contract for every assassin in New York to go after Wick. To show how hopeless the situation is for Wick, Winston makes a phone call that causes every sightseer in Bethesda to turn around, all assassins under Winston’s employ. As you take your family around Bethesda and show them the turtles in the lake nearby be assured that none of the other tourists in the park are assassins. Probably. Better book a Central Park tour with TopDogTours NYC so we can keep an eye out for you.

New York Public Library

At the beginning of John Wick: Chapter 3 – Parabellum, John looks for an emergency stash in one of the books at the world famous New York Public Library, desperately clambering past the twin lion statues (Patience and Fortitude) to enter the library and somehow skip their security check altogether. The Library asks patrons to be quiet as they browse the over 75 miles of books so behavior like the sight of John killing a would-be assassin with a book is something you will likely miss on your trip through the library. Still! Take your kids into the children’s corner and show them the on-display original Winnie the Pooh toys owned by the original Christopher Robin AKA Christopher Milne. Just in time for the holidays, the Library and nearby winter village are a featured part of TopDogTours NYC’s Holiday Tour!

Doyers Street

After fighting off the assassin at the library, John has to tend to his wounds with a Sbackalley doctor in Chinatown. Said clinic is Chinatown’s famous Doyers Street, once known as the bloodiest street in America for all the gang wars that occurred here by the Tong gangs of Chinatown. Hatchetmen, foot soldiers armed with literal hatchets, would throw down on this very street where today the most conflict comes from those waiting to get a spot at the Nom Wah Tea Parlor which has been serving dim sum cuisine since 1920. Take a walk down Doyers on our Three Neighborhoods tour!

Grand Central

Grand Central, the largest train station in the world, has been home to many films over the year and John Wick is no different. In Chapter 3, John Wick is walking through the concourse when he is approached by Mark Dacascos’ ultra-efficient killer, Zero. The two exchange a glance, they’re about to throw down and prove who is truly the better assassin…

And then a tour guide with a flag leads a group in between the two hitmen completely throwing everything off.

…

Maybe you can tour this one on your own… or as part of our Superheroes of New York walking tour!

When most people think of New York City theatre, they think of the flashy lights and big names of Broadway.

But the truth is that the entire city is brimming with quality theatre for all audiences! In fact, the term ‘Broadway’ as we know it today just means the theatre can hold more than 500 people–it has nothing to do with the quality of the show going on inside! Check out the five theatre companies below for some incredible performances that may be off the beaten track.

New World Stages

Home to five different performances spaces in its convenient midtown location, New World Stages is a superb option to see Off-Broadway shows! Numerous productions have found their second life at New World Stages, including the Off-Broadway productions of Avenue Q, Jersey Boys, and Rock of Ages. There are shows for every age group at New World, so if your family can’t decide what to see, you can all still head over to 50th and 8th to find a great variety package all under one roof.

STOMP – Orpheum Theatre

For an experience like no other, don’t be afraid to venture downtown to the Orpheum Theatre. STOMP has been running at this East Village location for over

25 years and its unique blend of percussion and acrobatics makes this show a crowd pleaser for audiences worldwide. This intimate space is located on a strip of 2nd Avenue that is overflowing with unique bars and restaurants. Grab a pre-show cocktail at literary hotspot and bar KGB or a sweet snack at New York City’s famed Vanleeuwen Ice Cream just around the corner.

Harold and Miriam Steinberg Center

Many people have heard of Roundabout Theatre Company. Their famous revivals of Cabaret and She Loves Me are cherished pieces of theatre. But did you know that this non-profit theatre company actually has five spaces around the city? One of those spaces is their Off-Broadway complex, the Harold and Miriam Steinberg Center. Located just off of Times Square at 46th and 6th, this venue houses both the Laura Pels Theatre and Roundabout’s Underground space, a playground for up and coming young playwrights. Adam Gwon’s legendary show Ordinary Days got its start in this underground space and his latest work, Scotland PA is finishing its run at the upstairs theatre, the Laura Pels. Who knows what new work you might get to experience with a visit to the Steinberg Center!

The Public

Famed launchpad of A Chorus Line and Hamilton, The Public is another downtown location to catch the hottest new shows. With five theatre spaces and a cabaret venue inside, The Public has a variety of options to choose from. It’s also home to The Library, a swanky spot for dinner and drinks before the show. Don’t forget to step outside the building and take a moment to enjoy the historic exterior before you go home.

Out of the Box Theatrics

For a truly unique experience, visit the site-specific shows produced by Out of the Box Theatrics. Though each show is a relatively short run, you’ll find star-studded casts and non-traditional casting that brings each piece to a new height. Like many young, Off-Broadway companies, OOTB has a strong point of view and a lot to say. Their shows are sure to get you thinking, whether it’s a well-known favorite like You’re a Good Man Charlie Brown or a brand new play like last summer’s premiere of The Pink Unicorn. If you feel inspired to participate in the art, look for OOTB’s monthly open mic night while you’re in town.

The weather is finally starting to turn around here in NYC and spring is officially here!

On a nice weekday afternoon I decided to join many other tourists and New Yorkers for a stroll through Central Park. I spend a fair amount of time in the park as a local, but it is never enough! The park is amazing in every season, I even got lost in it during a snowstorm a few weeks ago! That being said, spring is one of the best times of year to visit since the temperature is more moderate than the summer or winter. This time there was a nice breeze and the plants were just starting to bloom in some areas. The next few weeks seem like they will be perfect for visiting of the city’s greatest treasures! Here is some of what I saw this time on my walk in Central Park.

Horse Carriages and The Pond

I began my walk at Grand Army Plaza which was buzzing with activity from people meeting up to others trying to catch cabs. The biggest change I noticed was the horse and carriage stand being moved from off of 59th st to just inside the park. People seemed to have no trouble finding them and cars were not as close as they were before, they seemed to have a bit more space in general. I saw a few families hopping up into the carriages and trotting off into the park which is a classic Central Park activity. I continued on into the park past the beautiful pond. People were taking photos of some birds enjoying the water. From the pond, I encountered what was once known as the children’s area of the park. I walked through the former Dairy, past the chess and checkers house down the 65th street traverse to the grand Carousel.

Central Park Carousel

Although I really wanted to, I decided not to ride the Carousel and left it for the families and kids, although there were a few adults riding solo. This carousel is fourth in park history. The original is said to have been powered by a live donkey and horse, trained to start and stop on command. The next two were destroyed in fires. The current one was found in an abandoned Coney Island trolley terminal and dates back to 1908 and was restored in the ‘90s. The Carousel is especially popular with children and couples of all ages on dates. Check it out when you come visit! I decided to walk uphill to an area known as the Mall next.

The Mall

Not for shopping, but originally for showing off, the term mall refers to a formal feature of a proper (European) park; a long promenade where people would gather to stroll. This was an important part of being considered a member of the American upper class; you would leave your carriage and walk amongst the common folk, which set this mall apart from the ones found across the pond. Today it is a still a place where people from all walks of life gather. The other day was no exception, I saw people from all over the world posing for pictures, looking at the amazing bronze statues scattered down the promenade, and browsing the photos and posters for sale on carts and tables set up throughout. The shade from the American Elms made it a little cooler than the rest of the park but it was still plenty warm from the sun peaking through the branches. Walking through the mall you cannot help but feel like you are in a movie, since so many have been shot here including Home Alone 2, Enchanted, and Spiderman 3. At the end of the mall, I stopped to admire Bethesda Fountain and the Lake.

Bethesda Fountain

A trip to Central Park is not complete without a visit to its centerpiece: Bethesda Fountain. In the center of an impressive pool is a sculpture of an angel touching down on top of fountain. When I went the water was not yet flowing, it was also a bit windy so that may have been for the best. People were sitting down inside the dry pool which was an interesting site considering normally it is full of water and coins! I walked to the other side of the fountain and took a look at the Lake, which comes up right to the edge of the brick paved path.. Lots of people were boating and enjoying their time on the water, the Loeb Boathouse also seemed very inviting across the way. I decided to keep walking to one of my favorite parts of the park, The Ramble.

The Ramble

I have been to most areas in the park at least once, but one area that I have not explored fully, and don’t know if I ever will is the wooded area known as The Ramble. This part of the park was designed to look as natural and rugged as possible, while still providing properly marked paths and trails. I decided to wander up a way I never had before and found myself seemingly in the middle of a forest. There were few people and the trail was a bit steep, but I got some incredible views of the Lake from above. There was also a small creek formed from the lake and some rocks. After about fifteen minutes I found myself back in the busy part of Central Park that is near the Museum of Natural History. The sounds of the city, traffic, and bikes came back all at once, and I noticed how nice it was to be tucked away in the middle of the quiet Ramble. After all that walking, especially in the hilly areas, I decided it was time to go.

There is so much more to see in Central Park, I actually meant to visit two of my other favorite places in the park: the Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir and Delacourte Castle but I guess I will just have to visit them next time. If you are planning a trip there are so many other places to consider like the Central Park Zoo and The Wollman Rink! Also consider taking a tour with Top Dog Tours, we provide a lot of interesting information and will take you to some of the highlights of the park, including some of the ones I got to see this time. No matter what, as long as you get to visit Central Park you are sure to be impressed by the most popular urban park in the world!

Downtown Manhattan has always seemed cutting edge and modern.

A favorite location for skyscraper designers, the Financial District (now sometimes known as FiDi) attracts as many tourists and trendy locals s it does bankers and businessmen. All this new development cannot change the fact that Downtown is the oldest neighborhood in the city. It is even older than America, having been settled by Native Americans for many generations before the Dutch established a shipping port and fort in 1625 known as New Amsterdam. Wall Street was originally as far North as the settlement extended! New York City also played a major role in the American Revolutionary War and some of these sites can still be visited today. Check out some of them the next time you find yourself Downtown.

Fraunces Tavern

What better place to start a historical walking tour than at a bar! It’s what the founding fathers would have wanted; during colonial times it is estimated there was one bar for every TWENTY people in the British colony known as New York. This land was originally owned by the first NYC mayor to be born in the colony, Stephanus van Cortlandt who gave it to his son-in-law Stephen DeLancey. DeLancey then sold the building to a man named Samuel Fraunces who turned it into a bar, originally called the Queen’s Head. By the 1770s, this bar was the secret headquarters for the Sons of Liberty. This bar was involved in the city’s very own “tea party” in 1773 when patriots forced a British ship captain to apologize for attempting to bring tea to New York during the tea crisis. They then disguised themselves as Native Americans and dumped his tea in the harbor, just like in the more famous Boston Tea Party. The tavern was also involved in negotiations with the British and the “Long Room” was the site of a fancy turtle feast George Washington held for his troops post-Revolution. He allegedly took each officer aside for a private word after delivering a speech of gratitude. After the war the bar served as the offices of Foreign Affairs, Finance, and War. Today it is partly a museum dedicated to the American Revolution, George Washington, and the Sons of Liberty and also has a restaurant and a whisky bar.

Bowling Green

Not far from Fraunces Tavern is a small park and public square aptly known as Bowling Green where people would play lawn bowling during colonial times. It was also a meeting place, and is still used for gatherings of all sorts today. A lot has changed around the area, but the park is still known by the same name and looks similar to how it does today. One big difference would have been a giant gilded statue of King James III on horseback that was in the middle of the park from 1765-1776. On July 9th 1776 after a reading of the Declaration of Independence in City Hall Park just a bit further uptown, some of the Sons of Liberty came down to Bowling Green to tear down the statue and get rid of all signs of British rule. They tore down the statue, cut it into pieces, and sent a bunch of the statue down to Connecticut to be melted down into musket balls to shoot at the British! That is some pretty good revenge! Historians also believe crowns were once adorning the top of the fence posts surrounding the park and the rioters sawed them all off, and if you run your hand over the tops of one these posts, you will find it to be rough. That fence has stood the test of time! Today there is a fountain and seasonal flowers to enjoy.

Trinity Church

Built in 1698, if this building had not been burned down once (in 1776 during the Revolution) and was damaged by snowstorm in the 1800s, it would be the longest continuously used building in New York City history. Now it is under a major renovation once again, but it still is very impressive. The large spire made it larger than any other structure for many years, people even informed travelers if they were sailing into New York Harbor to look for Trinity to know they had arrived. Although the clergy was required to be Loyalist during the war, after the Revolution, George Washington and Alexander Hamilton as well as many other prominent New Yorkers worshipped at Trinity. Hamilton even advised the church on financial and legal matters, had five children baptized there, and of course is buried on the grounds. Hamilton and his wife Eliza are the most popular graves in the site and the biggest draw for Trinity today, although they are still an active church with services that can be attended by all.

Federal Hall

The original Federal Hall was built in 1703 and saw a ton of incredible events within its walls including the drafting of a message of protest sent to King George III in response to the levying of the Stamp Act and the libel trial of John Zenger which led to the establishment of freedom of the press, later part of the Bill of Rights.After the war, this would be the first Capitol Building for the country before the capital moved from Philadelphia and then down to Washington DC.This was where George Washington’s inauguration as the first President was held. Although this was an incredibly historic building, when the capital moved out of New York, it was determined unnecessary and the original was torn down in the 1790s. About thirty years later, it was rebuilt and served as a Customs House and Sub Treasury with millions of dollars worth of gold and silver until the Federal Reserve Bank was established in 1920. Today it is a national monument and offers rotating exhibits as well as a permanent collection dedicated to George Washington including a replica of his desk, the Inaugural Bible, and a recovered piece of the balcony he was sworn in on, the only thing remaining from the original structure.

Battery Park and New York Harbor

Walking back downtown, towards Fraunces Tavern but continuing as far south as you can go, Battery Park and New York Harbor sit at the tip of the island. Today known for its views of the Statue of Liberty and for leisure, battery park was originally meant for defense. The “battery” in the name refers to a battery of cannons that defended the colony since the days of the Dutch settlers. The Battery continued to be used throughout the American Revolution and was the center of Evacuation Day celebrations at the end of the war. Later on Castle Clinton was formed on an artificial spit of land in the harbor in 1811, meant to defend the city during the War of 1812, later a landfill encircled the fort, connecting it to the rest of Manhattan. It later became one of the cities most popular parks and still enjoyed by many to this day. During recent excavation in the park, a part of the original Battery Wall was uncovered and can be viewed inside Castle Clinton today. New York Harbor is just as breathtaking now as it was during colonial times. Although less shipping occurs in this harbor than in the past and the vessels sure are different than you would have seen in the 1700s it is not hard to understand the value of these waters. New York would not be nearly as important to the country without its advantageous harbor. Once teeming with sea life and beavers, later becoming the most important shipping port in the country, it makes sense the British did not want to give it up without a fight! Without the Sons of Liberty and the founding fathers, we might still have been British subjects to this day. Although New Englanders (especially Bostonians) might think they have the monopoly on Revolutionary War sites, New York offers as much history in a smaller area. Take a walk and see it for yourself!

Chinatown is one of the best places you can visit on your trip to NYC.

It is drastically different from all the other neighborhoods and offers sights and experiences you won’t find anywhere else. The food in Chinatown cannot be beat in terms of variety and price and there is one item sure to be on the menu at nearly any eatery you choose: the dumpling! In case you have not had the pleasure, a dumpling is dough wrapped around a filling of some kind. The varieties are endless and many cultures have their own version; whether it be the Italian ravioli or the Polish pierogi, or even Nepalese momos! In Chinatown they are usually called “dumplings” and even if they are listed under another name on the menu, the staff is sure to know what you are asking for. Planning a trip to Chinatown and don’t know where to start? Here are five of the top rated dumpling houses in the city!

1. Joe’s Shanghai- 9 Pell Street

Joe’s Shanghai is a legend in Chinatown for my favorite kind of dumplings: SOUP DUMPLINGS! If you have never had them before, you have to give them a try. Also known as xiao lao bao, they are a little messy, but seriously delicious! They offer two kinds of soup dumplings; crab and pork or just pork. I really love the crab and pork. Joe’s Shanghai and it’s sibling Joe’s Ginger are run a little differently than your average restaurant. You will most likely be sharing a table with other diners and they will probably assume you are their for the soup dumplings, you may even have to ask for a menu! But trust me, this is the perfect place to start off your night of dumpling hopping!

If you want to try something a little different, but very authentic, try one of their whole fish steamed, braised, or spicy!

2. Tasty Dumpling- 42 Mulberry Street

Another great spot known particularly for their dumplings is, of course, Tasty Dumpling. These guys offer a wide variety of dumplings, hence the name. You may want to try their classic chive and pork or one of their rotating specials. I opted for the chicken and mushroom this time, which I really enjoyed. The dough is on the thicker side and the filling was savory and surprisingly flavorful. This is definitely the place to go to please a lot of people since the also offer nearly every variety in both fried and steamed. They even have frozen dumplings you can take home and make yourself!

They also have great soups, try their chicken and corn or hot and sour soup!

3. Wo Hop- 17 Mott Street

Wo Hop is one of the most famous Chinese restaurants in NYC. They even sell their own T-shirts! They are classic; to get inside you have to go down some stairs and all the waiters wear old fashioned jackets. Apparently not much has changed about the space since 1938, although they rotate their pictures of patrons and visiting celebrities often. Sharpie-signed dollar bills line the walls as well as graffiti! Wo Hop offers several styles of dumpling and is most famous for its wonton (aka dumpling) soup, but this time I wanted to try their pan fried pork dumplings. They were large, moon-shaped and were delicious with their sauce. Wo Hop is a legendary late night spot they are open till 7 am! These dumplings are sure to hit to spot after bar hopping in the Lower East Side!

Still hungry? Try their famous wonton crisps, they’ll give you a huge bowl for 50 cents!

4. Vegetarian Dim Sum House- 24 Pell Street

If you or someone in your group is vegetarian, Chinese cuisine can sometimes be challenging depending on which restaurant you choose. But Vegetarian Dim Sum House lives up to its name. They offer a few different kinds of veggie dumplings, some fried and some steamed. I heard the steamed spinach dumplings were particularly good. They were huge! They come three to an order, but that’s all you need. You also can’t find a green dumpling a lot of places, even in Chinatown. If you are looking for one of the healthiest Chinese restaurants in they city, you cannot go wrong with Vegetarian Dim Sum House!

They also have awesome veggie spring rolls and a wide variety of healthy (and not so healthy) vegetable dishes.

5. Fried Dumpling- 106 Mosco Street

It’s all in the name. This truly is a hole-in-the-wall place that serves locals, tourists, and nearly everyone who stumbles upon it for the simple reason that they are the cheapest! You can get five dumplings for $1.50, which has all of our other places beat. They are fried pork pot-sticker type dumplings but they are really tasty (actually worth much more than they sell them for) and they have been a Chinatown favorite for years. They are able to keep their prices so low because they are small and no-frills. They offer a few other things, but they continuously sell these fried dumplings all day so they are sure to be fresh.

People really just come here for the dumplings but they also offer steamed buns that tend to sell out if you want to try more!

6. Bonus: Shanghai Asian Manor

Every New Yorker has a favorite Chinese restaurant and this one is mine. There are a lot of great things to pick from on the menu. The thick udon noodle dishes are very popular, as well as their chicken dishes. But they also have amazing soup dumplings and I couldn’t help but include one more spot.These soup dumplings are a little smaller and thinner than Joe’s Shanghai, but I like these a little more. They have two kinds: pork and truffle. Truffle soup dumplings are hard to come by and if you are a fan, you should give them a try!

Give anything else here a try and I’m sure you will see why I like it so much!

Now that you have some ideas, you can think about what kind of dumplings you want to try. All of these places are within a few blocks of one another so you really can try them all! There are also many other places along the way you should try out, sometimes wandering around until you stumble upon a place you like is the best way to find your new favorite restaurant. One more piece of advice, many of these establishments are cash only, so stop by an ATM along the way. Happy Dumpling Hopping!

Here at Top Dog Tours, we love dogs of all shapes and sizes.

NYC offers so much for dog owners from great pet shops, the best parks, and even pet friendly bars! One of the best opportunities city pooches have to socialize would be at one of many dog runs. Dog runs give dogs a chance to run, sniff, and play with one another in a safe, fenced-off enclosure. Since most NYC owners do not have a yard and leash laws are strictly enforced, the city offers many of these dog runs and it is a gift not just for dog owners- but for the entire city alike. Giving walking tours all around NYC, we often visit parks and where there are parks, there are dogs! What could be better than exploring a beautiful park with a knowledgeable guide and getting the chance to see some local pups at play! Here are some of the best dog runs to bring your pooch or grab a bench nearby just to watch.

J. Hood Wright Park Dog Run

Let’s start off with a hidden gem. Some of the largest dog runs in the city are just 20 minutes away from Midtown Manhattan in historic Washington Heights. Here you can find several clean and spacious dog runs. J. Hood Wright Park is on the West side of 173rd st. It is a small park, but has a nicely sized dog run where both big and small dogs can play together. Many parks in the city have two areas- one for large and one for small dogs only. This is one of the best for dogs who love to socialize with dogs of all sizes. You can also find a nice playground for the kids, a recreation center, and a large grassy area with rocks to climb on. Our Top Dogs love it! The best part of this dog run though, is the scenic views of the George Washington Bridge. Here is our furry friend Meeko posing just outside the dog run!

Ft. Tryon Dog Run

Just a little bit further North you can find another park in Washington Heights that is often a hot spot for tourists and New Yorkers alike: Ft. Tryon Park. This park best known for the Cloisters Museum, an extension of the Metropolitan Museum of Art and a must-see for fans of Medieval art, fashion, and architecture. The park also has a natural, rugged, forest-like character, it feels like stepping back in time! It also boasts the city’s largest public dog run: the Ft. Tryon Sir William dog run. The park (and dog run) are named after William Tryon, the last colonial governor of the city. It is a full acre and has over 350 regular users! It also has a small dog area with a seperate entrance which is helpful for small timid dogs. The rest of the park is also a great place to get some exercise for both dogs and humans alike. It’s almost like getting out of the city while still being right in Manhattan. Look at Nemmy having a ball in her favorite dog run!

Union Square Dog Run

Union Square is one of the city’s busiest parks but has so much to see! From interesting works of architecture like the Decker Building to statues of Presidents Washington and Lincoln- even the most expensive public art installation is city history can be found in compact Union Square! It also offers some of the best shopping, dining, and entertainment options around. This is a relatively small dog run, but you can’t beat the variety of dogs that visit here. People from all over the world and from around the corner come together in this little park. It is best for the dogs who always want to say hi to everyone, no matter where they come from. On our Gramercy tour, you can learn about the history of the area and all the local highlights, while checking out some cool pups. Take a look at all these pampered pooches!

Riverside Park

Scenic Riverside Park is one of the best places to take your dog in the city. There are long walking trails and lots of grassy patches and not just one but THREE dog runs so you are sure to find the best one for your picky pooch. Our favorite is just outside 87th st. You can find some of the friendliest dogs in the city on the Upper West Side. This park also has off leash hours at 9 AM and 9 PM just like its big brother to the east, Central Park. Since many of the dogs and owners know each other, there is a sense of comfort and ease more so than some of the other, more crowded dog runs. After your fun romp in the dog run and nice stroll in the park, you may want to visit some of the other highlights of the park: The Soldiers’ and Sailors’ Monument is a beautiful stone tower honoring those who served in the Union Army during the Civil War. It was dedicated by Theodore Roosevelt in 1902 and is still historically the location of Memorial Day ceremonies. Our friend’s Diesel and Ruby took a night time stroll to see the monument and Buddy is chilling in the grass!

Washington Square Park

Our guests always comment on how incredible the dog run is in Washington Square Park. Sometimes we take a short break to use the restrooms that are conveniently located just outside the dog run, and sometimes that break ends up being a little longer so our guests can admire the amazing dogs! This is also quite a large dog run, great for big dogs who need to run around. This park seems to have the widest variety of breeds and some very interesting owners too. Take our Greenwich Village historical tour or our Ghost tour if you prefer an after dark visit to the park. You can even hear about the spirit of a ghost dog! This is our fluffy pal Fritz getting to know some new buddies!

There are over 30 dug runs in Manhattan alone. Whichever you choose, you cannot go wrong! You will be sure to see some awesome pooches. Just a few things to keep in mind: the city has a “no dogs without people and no people without dogs” rule so if you are travelling sans furry friend just grab a bench nearby and watch to your heart’s content. Also make sure if you bring your dog to make sure you scope out the situation and make sure it is safe for your dog and their size/energy level matches the other dogs. Also be a good New Yorker and clean up after them! To learn more about these fabulous parks, take a tour with your favorite dog-loving company Top Dog Tours!

If you’re a fan of comedy, odds are you’ve heard of New York City.

Well, if you’re a human on planet earth you’ve probably heard of New York City, BUT this fact doesn’t make the theme of this blog as clear. By your probable reaction of “oof” to that mediocre joke, you might have guessed that – yes – the next page or two is dedicated to comedy! More specifically, comedy in New York City.

I would argue that New York City is one of two major comedy hubs in the United States – the other one being the Second City, AKA Chicago.

LA is a close second for me and mostly due to it being the home of The Groundlings, which gave us Kristen Wiig, Melissa McCarthy, Will Ferrell, Maya Rudolph, Will Forte – thank goodness. That being said, if you’re visiting New York with the aim of laughing, you might feel a bit overwhelmed and rightfully so. There is so much #content being made in this city, it’s hard to decide between which shows will make you laugh with them and which will make you laugh at them. Therefore, I’m going to take this moment to outline some of my favorite comedy spots in all of New York City. And AWAY… WE… GO!*

*First epic comedy spot entails spotting Billy Eichner of Billy on the Street on the streets of New York. Fun fact: I have done this, but I ran away because I was shell-shocked.

Studio 8H, NBC Studios, 30 Rockefeller Plaza

Odds are you’ve heard of Saturday Night Live. And if you’re looking for a hot ticket in comedy – and I mean hot ticket – this is right up your alley. In fact, tickets to SNL are such a hot commodity that scoring one is like winning the lottery. You have to literally win their lottery to get any sort of advanced ticket. How do you enter? Mark your calendars! Every August you have the chance to submit an email with your information explaining why you should be an audience member. There is, however, another option. You can try your hand at stand-by tickets. Each Saturday morning before taping you can line up outside of Rockefeller Center to take a swing at scoring a stand-by ticket to the 8pm Dress Rehearsal or the 11:30pm Live Show. The tickets are distributed one per person at 7:00am – so be sure to line up well before then!

Now let’s get to some shows you can actually book in advance!

Comedy Cellar

The Comedy Cellar is a small, cramped comedy club in the basement of a building on Macdougal Street in Greenwich Village. Sounds great, right? But it’s so much more than that. It is an icon and staple in the comedy world and a place where many famous comedians – new and old – have honed – and continue to hone – their craft. It was founded in 1982 by writer and comedian Bill Grundfest with the goal of opening a sort of playground for comedians. It was to be a place where comics have the chance to explore and to fail – both necessities in the creation of good comedy. For example, Grundfest has mentioned that Jon Stewart “bombed for six months” when first performing at the Comedy Cellar. And look at Jon now. Jon Stewart isn’t the only person you might’ve heard of that has performed here. Excuse me while I name drop: Colin Quinn, Jerry Seinfeld, Ray Romano, Mike Birbilgia, Nikki Glaser, Dave Attell, Marc Maron, Chris Rock, Judy Gold, Michelle Wolf, Sarah Silverman, and so on have graced the stage of the Comedy Cellar. They have multiple shows every night with 5-7 comics having around 20 minute sets – and don’t be surprised if one of your favorites drops in for a surprise set. Give them a call or check online to make a reservation!

*For any comedy historians and lovers, right next door to the Cellar is Café Wha, a popular club in the 60s where some comedy legends you might have heard of – Lenny Bruce, Joan Rivers, Richard Pryor – have performed. Check out both of these iconic spaces on our Greenwich Village Tour!

Caroline’s on Broadway

If you’re visiting New York, odds are you’ll stop by Times Square. (Aren’t you loving this “odds are” motif?) And while you’re there, you should check out another one of New York’s best stand-up nightclubs – Caroline’s on Broadway. It’s literally on Broadway between 49th and 50th. This club also originally opened in 1982, but this time by Caroline Hirsch (we see where the name comes from). Some legendary comics have performed at this venue, including Jerry Seinfeld, Tim Allen, Billy Crystal, Rosie O’Donnell, Jay Leno, Tracy Morgan, Kathy Griffin, and so on. Having multiple shows seven nights a week, you’re sure to strike gold if you book a show at Caroline’s. You can even say you saw a show on Broadway to your theater friends and you technically wouldn’t be lying.

Upright Citizens Brigade

If you’re in the mood for a show where a couple of wacky people get a random suggestion and completely make up scenes right in front of you then improvisational comedy is the right option for you. And the best of best of improv comedy in NYC – or at least the most well known – is the Upright Citizens Brigade (UCB). UCB was originally an improv and sketch group born in Chicago in 1990 – they arrived in New York and opened a theater by 1999. Founders Amy Poehler (Queen), Matt Besser, Matt Walsh, and Ian Roberts probably didn’t know then, but their small theater would go on to flourish into a phenomena and powerhouse in the comedy scene. If you don’t believe me, go stand in line for one of their most popular shows or try to book a spot in one of their 101 classes without following their twitter to receive notifications at the exact moment when a class opens up. The institution now has three New York locations – and two in LA – giving you all the more opportunity to catch a hilarious show. My favorite is the trademark ASSSSCAT 3000 every Sunday 7:30pm and 9:30pm at UCB Hell’s Kitchen which often features a surprise celeb monologist – AND the 9:30pm show is FREE (!!!!) if you’re willing to wait in line a bit. Check out their site for schedules and for your chance to learn improv!

More?!

How could there be more?! Like I said, there is pretty much endless #content coming out of the comedians here in NYC and therefore no shortage of hilarious shows and places to catch them. I could write novels about all the theaters, but for now here’s a list of some spots (some fancy, some underground) that offer hilarious stand-up, improv, sketch, musical, variety, and what-have-you shows:

• The Bell House
• Broadway Comedy Club
• Caveat
• Club Cumming
• Gotham Comedy Club
• Improv Asylum NYC
• Late Night Show Tapings
• Littlefield
• Magnet Theater
• New York Comedy Club
• People’s Improv Theater (The PIT)
• The Stand

Union Hall

More…

There’s more?! Yes… But you’ll just have to see for yourself.

As a Tour Guide and a New Yorker, I’m often asked which neighborhood in New York is my favorite.

Typically, what someone is really saying is that they have a free afternoon and want advice on places to check out that aren’t classic tourist attractions. They want to experience a few new, unique, only-in-New-York experiences that cater to locals but are still exciting for someone visiting the city. Almost every time, my recommendation is the same: if you want to go off the beaten path, spend a lazy afternoon in Greenwich Village and just try to blend in. While you’re there, take yourself on a mini food tour, hang out at one of the amazing cafés near Washington Square Park, and enjoy a much needed break in a vacation otherwise packed with visiting New York’s never-ending tourist attractions. So, whether you’re looking for that unique New York experience or just want to take an afternoon to slow down and let your feet recover, consider this guide to a lazy day in Greenwich Village as my gift to you.

New York is known for its world class restaurants and for the sheer number of food options available on every block.

In Greenwich Village, one of the artistic and cultural centers for New York City, those food options tend to come with a more unique and experimental twist. For example, one of my favorite options is By Chloe, a vegan restaurant with menu items like Vegan Whiskey BBQ Burgers or Sweet Potato Fries dipped in Beet Ketchup. This vegan hot spot is beloved by the neighborhood’s artistic crowd and its population of NYU students, so you can almost guarantee that you’ll be the only non-local. Or, if vegan food is new to you and you’d like a vegan option that’s less experimental, try Red Bamboo, a popular vegan restaurant specializing in vegan comfort food. And yes, if you’re confused by what that term even means (like I was), it easily exceeds expectations. I have yet to try something at Red Bamboo that hasn’t blown my mind.

A full meal or a quick snack?

If a full meal sounds like too much and you’re simply looking for a quick snack, check at Pommes Frites, a Belgian Fries restaurant that boasts more than 30 different dipping sauce options. Or you could stop by the Creperie NYC for arguably the best dessert crepes in America. Just don’t expect warm southern hospitality at either location, as you’re more likely to be served by someone resembling the Soup Nazi from Seinfeld. Embrace it. It’s all part of the experience. If your sweet tooth is somehow still not satisfied, check out the hugely popular Dō, a dessert spot that serves up scoops of delicious, safe-to-eat cookie dough. Seating in most of these locations is also limited, so plan to enjoy your food while strolling around the Village like the artistic Bohemian that you are. Bonus points if you link arms like you’re on the cover of a Bob Dylan album (yes, that photo was shot in this neighborhood).

What is your mood?

Next, it’s time to decide what kind of mood you’re in and make your way over to either one of my favorite hole-in-wall cafés in the city. If you’re in more of a classy, artistic mood, grab a cappuccino and settle into a table at Café Reggio. This cute coffee shop isn’t just a Greenwich Village icon, it’s also the home of America’s very first Cappuccino. Founder Domenico Parisi introduced the Cappuccino to America at this location in the 1920s, and the popular spot has since been featured in countless movies like The Godfather Part II or the award winning Inside Llewyn Davis. For extra social media points, take a quick photo next to the original espresso machine from the store’s opening that is still displayed prominently against the café’s back wall.

Feeling more in the mood for a quirky, all-afternoon experience? Look no further than The Uncommons, a board game café located just a few blocks from Café Reggio. At the Uncommons, each guest pays a small cover charge ($5-$10) for their own table and access to any board game or party game you’ve ever heard of. You’ll be surrounded by all types of New Yorkers, from a couple casually playing a silly card game on their first date, to a group of friends getting together to play Settlers of Catan, to a table full of die-hard board game fans whispering about killing Zombies on Mount Everest in some crazy, epic board game you’ve never heard of. Even if you just go to observe and people-watch, it’s a worthwhile experience. Personally, I recommend grabbing a small pile of games that look exciting (there’s no limit to how may you can play) and trying each out until you’ve found your favorite. If any game seems too difficult or too boring, simply toss it back in the box and move onto the next one. Or, if you’re feeling overwhelmed, ask the staff which games they recommend and play whichever game promises the biggest laugh.

Washington Square Park

Finally, before you leave the Village for your next adventure, make sure you take a leisurely stroll through Washington Square Park. The Washington Arch is probably the most recognizable landmark in the neighborhood, and the fountain nearby is typically surrounded by dozens of street performers, artists, and some of New York’s most colorful local inhabitants. To blend in, simply sit on a nearby bench, sip your coffee, and let the sights and sounds (and smells) of the park wash over you. However you decide to spend the rest of your evening, you can feel rested and satisfied knowing that, at least for an afternoon, you blended in with the New Yorkers.

New York City gets a reputation for being noisy, crowded, and expensive. But there is one month of the year where that is not true. Although it may seem like a terrible time to travel to the North East, savvy tourists know February cannot be beat in terms of pricing and availability. If you want to have the place (almost) to yourself, you have to come visit this time of year.

1. It’s Waaaaay Less Crowded!

Many tourists are scared to travel to NYC in the winter because of the cold weather. The average daily high temperature is around 32℃, which is too cold for some, but if you can brave the elements, you can enjoy a much more empty city. The Statue of Liberty, Empire State Building, and many other popular attractions report shorter lines and wait times. So as long as you prepare and dress warm you can enjoy less hassle and get a more individual experience. Many tourists find they enjoy this time of year more than the heat of summer. New Yorkers also enjoy the extra elbow room too and are sometimes even friendlier despite the cold! The peace and quiet brings out the best in everyone.

2. There are Incredible Events All Month Long

Even though February is the shortest month of the year it is jam packed with fun events! If you are coming at the beginning of the month you may be interested in getting some great deals on hundreds of NYC eateries for Restaurant Week! You can get a 2 course meal for $26 or 3 courses for $42. Participating restaurants include the Atlantic Grill in Lincoln Center, The Brooklyn Chop House, The Bombay Bread Bar and more! Both New Yorkers and tourists alike love to get dressed up and get a great deal on a fancy meal. It only comes twice a year, this time it runs January 21st through February 8th, just in time for an early Valentine’s Day treat. If you’re coming toward the end of the month and have some children to entertain the Intrepid Museum Kids Week may be perfect for young ones interested in anything airplanes, boats, and space! It runs February 17th through 23rd. Also check out the New York International Children’s Film Festival, which offers events and workshops as well as movies from all around the world. It begins February 22nd and continues through March 17th. Of course if you need a reason to visit the Big Apple this month, there is always Valentine’s Day!

More information about these events can be found at these links:

• https://www.nycgo.com/restaurant-week
• https://www.intrepidmuseum.org/KidsWeek
• https://nyicff.org/

3. Valentine’s Day Fun

There are so many rom-coms set in NYC for a reason: it is one of the most romantic cities in the world! You can take a walk across the magnificent Brooklyn Bridge which is breath-taking with a light coating of snow. Central Park is especially romantic this time of year and is also mercifully empty. Wander off the beaten track and you can find yourself a moment of solitude in the middle of the big city. You can take a night-time harbor cruise see the lights; many companies offer warm cabins where you can watch from indoors with a hot chocolate or delicious cocktail. Restaurants may be really busy and reservations hard to make but what is great about NYC is that even grabbing some dollar pizza in Times Square with someone you love can be just as romantic as a fancy dinner back home. Some other fun date ideas include visiting the Statue of Liberty, going to the observation deck of One World Trade, or museum wandering.

4. The Deals are Amazing in February

One of the hardest things about visiting NYC is securing a hotel room. They can be so incredibly expensive and sell out quickly many times of the year. Christmas, New Years, and during the summer the rates can rise exponentially. February is one of the easiest and cheapest times of year to get hotel rooms and airfare.Sometimes Valentine’s Day and the surrounding weekend can be a little tricky, especially for the most popular hotels but you are sure to find a deal if you do a little searching! Some hotels will even offer packages which include entrance to museums and top tourist attractions to entice you further. Since it is less crowded you will get more personalized attention and there are concierges who can even help plan your trip!

5. It Might Even Snow!

We get an average of 7 inches of snow here in New York City in February. Some years it is more, some is less but February usually brings us at least a little snow. You can get some amazing pictures on a snowy day, especially in the parks. Some people even plan trips to visit the day after the snow hits just to experience the winter wonderland-like atmosphere. Even if it doesn’t snow on your trip, you can enjoy another great winter activity: ice skating at one of the city’s public skating rinks! At least if you do not see snow on your trip, you can enjoy the ice all winter long!

If you’re anything like me, you’ve come to New York for one thing, the food.

But where do you even start on this delicious journey? There are so many options and between shopping at Herald Square, seeing a Broadway show, and paying your respects at the 9/11 memorial, you don’t have much time to scout out authentic cuisine. However, there is one cuisine, among all of the fancy tasting menus and the mouthwatering food cart halal, that you cannot leave New York without trying: New York City pizza! So below I have provided a small selection of pizza options for the different type of foodie in you just to give you a small insight into the food adventure your taste buds are about to embark upon.

For The Historian

Before we get started on famous pizzerias, let’s take a little tour down memory lane and explore pizza’s origins. How did New York City become so well-known for its pizza? Where did it all start and Why? Well the where is simple enough, it all started in historic Little Italy. Between 1880 and 1920 more than 4 million Italian immigrants arrived to America and New York is where a lot of them decided to make their start as an American. Sometime in between 1897 and 1900 Little Italy reached its peak population at 10,000 Italian Americans living in a two square mile area. And it’s during this time, at the beginning of the twentieth century that New York got its signature dish. Combining the traditions of wood-oven bakeries with the new technology of a coal-fueled oven, the thin New York pizza with its sauce in the center and its characteristic crisp was born. Credited to creating the first pizzeria is Gennaro Lombardi and Antonio Totonno Pero, who started selling 5 cent pies out of their grocery story in 1905. And the rest is history. The trend of slices vs. whole pies took hold in the 1940s and now you can’t walk down the street without seeing someone claiming to have “the best slice in town.” Pizzarias of all different varieties are continuously popping up in this metropolis of delicious delights and even though Lombardi’s (https://firstpizza.com/) in Little Italy is still churning out delicious slices and pies on the daily, that is only the first of many places you should try on your foodie tour.

For The Authentic: Song’E Napule

Song’E Napule (146 W Houston St.) is the place to go if you want to be transported straight to Naples due to both the cooking and the clientele who consist of mostly expat Italians. At Song’E Napule they bake all of their pies in a wood-fire oven and don’t limit themselves to just pizza. They serve up other treats like Pollo Alla Milanese and Pulpetta Al Sugo (meatballs in tomato sauce) and even homemade pasta. This restaurant is quite small and in high demand, so expect there to be a wait, especially on the weekends. But if you’re looking for an authentic Italian experience, this is the place to go. Their website can be found here: https://www.songenapulenyc.us/

For The Hipster: Roberta’s

For those willing to brave Brooklyn you will be well rewarded when you stumble upon Roberta’s, a trendy spot hidden amongst the gritty warehouses of Bushwick. Located at 261 Moore St, this is another wood-oven locale with pizzas sporting names such as Bee Sting, Axl Rosenberg, and Cowabunga Dude. Thanks to their creative topping combinations such as honey and chili and hipster friendly vibe, Roberta’s has made its mark on New York pizza history. A more in depth review of this Brooklyn classic can be found here: https://www.theinfatuation.com/new-york/reviews/robertas

For The New Yorker: Patzeria

Located across the street from the Richard Rodgers Theatre on 46th, Patzeria is a Midtown hole in the wall, that is known for their simply delicious pizza and meatball subs. This is the place to go if you don’t want any frills or fuss with your pizza, just the grease and New York City tap water that is rumored to the key to New York’s pizza success. They do delivery as well, but nothing beats wandering around the Great White Way with a classic New York slice in hand.

Take a look at what Patzeria has to offer here: https://www.patzeriaperfectpizzanewyork.com/

For The Wallet: Dollar Slice

Starting around 2008, the dollar slice phenomenon is said to be a result of local businesses listening to the college students, the cab drivers, and other New York locals who needed sustenance fast and cheap. As usual, everyone claims to have been the first to create this cheap eats concept, but with a little research you can trace the trend to two different businesses: Two Bros and 99cent Fresh Pizza. These two establishments have utilized small shops with cheap rents located on busy pedestrian areas to sustain their unique business models. To learn more about the man who has taken it upon himself to rate every dollar slice in town go here.

And to learn more about dollar slice’s history: https://www.nytimes.com/2010/03/16/nyregion/16pizza.html

For The Curious

If you would like to know more about the history of NYC pizza or get in touch with those in the know, here are some links I used for this blog and other personal knowledge. May your food adventures be fruitful and your bellies full!

• https://www.thirteen.org/program-content/when-little-italy-was-big
• https://www.triplemint.com/blog/the-history-of-little-italy-nyc/
• https://www.nytimes.com/2017/09/14/nyregion/new-york-today-history-of-nyc-pizza.html
• https://theculturetrip.com/north-america/usa/new-york/articles/a-brief-history-of-new-york-pizza/
• https://www.seriouseats.com/2018/10/new-york-pizza-slice-history.html

This weekend I spent an amazing afternoon exploring one of NYC’s most iconic spaces: Battery Park!

At the southernmost tip of Manhattan sits an oasis of green grass, historical monuments, and incredible views of New York Harbor. You could spend an entire day wandering around and seeing all the park has to offer, but even a quick walk is a great break from the hustle and bustle of lower Manhattan. It was very cold out but it didn’t bother me or the many others out exploring one of the cities best parks! Here is just some of what you will find in Battery Park.

Historical Sights

Battery Park is full of history! It is the home of Castle Clinton, a former military installation, now the location of Statue of Liberty tickets. Visit this circular brick building if you want to connect with the many different lives of Battery Park. There is a small museum where you can see how Castle Clinton served many purposes to New York over the generations- it was even an aquarium! Castle Clinton is now a National Park site and is perfect for the history fans. One of my favorite statues in the park is just outside: a larger-than-life sculpture called “The Immigrants” which depicts the myriad of emotions and felt by immigrants as they arrived in a new land, which for many years was right here in Battery Park. Check out some of the other breathtaking monuments the park has to offer.

Statues and Monuments

Throughout the park you will find over a dozen monuments, some of my personal favorites in all of NYC in fact! There are some patriotic war memorials including the New York Korean War Memorial and the Norwegian Veterans Memorial. The most famous is the incredibley moving East Coast Memorial. It honors the 4,601 missing American serviceman who died in combat in the Atlantic Ocean during WWII. It is symbolically aligned with the Statue of Liberty and features a majestic bronze eagle and 19-foot granite slabs with the name, rank, state, and organization of the deceased. The American Merchant Mariners’ Monument, located on a breakwater in the harbor, recreates a real-life photo of Merchant Mariners in a sinking vessel after a German u-boat attack. Three sailors try desperately to pull up another that has fallen overboard. Depending on tide levels in the harbor, sometimes all you can see of the fallen man is just a hand rising out of the water. It is a dramatic and effective work of art, definitely a must see! Also find a gorgeous statue of Giovanni da Verrazzano and a plaque dedicated to Emma Lazarus. While you are monument-hopping in the park don’t forget to walk along the harbor edge and see the amazing views!

New York Harbor

Battery Park runs along the iconic New York Harbor. While it was a bit windy while I was there, the breath-taking views make it more than worth a visit no matter when you choose to visit. If you don’t have time for a visit to the Statue of Liberty this trip, a photo with the island in the background is a necessity. During my visit I saw lots of people posing with their families and couples taking engagement photos, so a bench along the harbor is the perfect place to people watch. You can see lots of boats crossing the harbor on their way to Jersey City or Governors Island and of course you can’t forget about the Statue Cruises boats on their way to Liberty and Ellis Island! Battery Park offers lots of activities for people of all ages, but one attraction in particular is perfect for the children in your life.

The Seaglass Carousel

Designed to replicate life under water, the Seaglass Carousel is a fun ride for you and your family. When redesigning the park, officials wanted to add light and came up with a creative idea: a colorful carousel celebrating aquatic life, harkening back to the aquarium days of Castle Clinton. It features thirty larger-than-life custom made fiberglass fish. Fun fact: it does not have the traditional center pole of many carousels; rather utilizing four turntables under the floorboards! This is a perfect photo op that kids of all ages-even the teens- seem to truly enjoy. The Seaglass Carousel can be the cherry on top of a perfect NYC outing, but before you go, I recommend taking a second to enjoy the lawns of Battery Park.

The Lawns

Even though it was chilly, I still saw many people enjoying the green space Battery Park offers. NYC can be so hectic. Grassy lawns are scarce downtown, and this park is an essential oasis for tourists and locals (and their dogs) alike! There are often blue chairs available to sit and relax. I decided to catch up on some reading and watch the line for the Statue of Liberty unfurl throughout the park. I hope you enjoy your visit to this legendary NYC park, you are sure to have a great time no matter how you choose to spend your afternoon!

Find of more information about all Battery Park has to offer here: https://www.nycgovparks.org/parks/battery-park/highlights/page/1

Where to find your tour guide on her day off

So you’ve been to all of the rooftop bars, spent more than you wanted on a NYC helicopter ride, eaten a 5 course tasting menu in midtown, but you still don’t feel like you’ve seen the real New York. Well that’s because you haven’t! Don’t be scared to explore the outer avenues of Hell’s Kitchen or to journey through the artsy alleyways of Greenwich Village. There you will find the real New York, the dive bars where the creatives and out of the box thinkers gather to sip on 5 dollar wells and revel in the sweat and grime that comes from everyday hustlin’ in the big city. If you need a place to start your adventure into the real New York, these 5 historical dive bars are a great place to start. They are all unofficial landmarks in their own right, in a city that is constantly changing these establishments have stood the test of time all while keeping their cheap prices and chill attitudes.

Rudy’s

(Hell’s Kitchen-627 9th Ave)

Rudy’s is the home of 7 dollar pitchers of beer and free hot dogs. Legally around since 1933, but is rumored to have a been speakeasy frequented by Al Capone in the 20s. On the weekends expect this place to be filled to the brim with finance workers and young artists alike either enjoying cheap beer, scarfing down the hot dogs, or lounging in the backyard. This no frills, New York staple is a perfect place to go when you want to feel like a local.

Bettibar

(Hell’s Kitchen-373 W 46th)

Located above the Hourglass Tavern on Restaurant Row, this cozy apartment converted into a bar sports an all night happy hour and amazing mashed potatoes. Bettibar has been a local hot spot for over 30 years due to its skilled bartenders and homey charm. If you were curious as to where Broadway casts and crews go on their night off, Bettibar is it.

Corner Bistro

(Greenwich Village-331 W 4th St)

Further down the island, there is an unassuming bar tucked into the corner of West 4th and Jane called Corner Bistro that claims to be “the last of the bohemian bars” in this area. Upon entering you’ll be hit with a Cheers-like atmosphere where everyone is a regular and the bartender is as integral as the building itself. Known for their cheeseburgers and wood paneling, this West Village standard will have you feeling like a real New Yorker in no time.

Art Bar

(Greenwich Village-52 8th Ave)

A few blocks down the road from Corner Bistro is the infamous Art Bar, which has been getting West Village natives “drunk for cheap” for over 20 years. Decorated with graffiti and plush booths, this is the place to be to spot local celebrities and enjoy the works of up and coming artists all while sipping a tasty cocktail from a comfy couch near the fireplace. There is also a kitchen that serves a wide variety of delicious food (including vegetarian options) all night long.

The Library

(Alphabet City-7 Ave A)

If you fancy hitting up the Lower East Side during your visit, The Library is a must. Not to be confused with the Library bar at the NoMad Hotel, this Alphabet City dive is home to grungy tattooed bartenders, raucous punk rock blasting from the jukebox, and a projector that plays a different B-Movie every night. If you are looking for a truly hole in the wall experience, The Library should be on the top of your list.

The Polar Express Meets The Golden Age of Hollywood

“One thing about trains: It doesn’t matter where they’re going. What matters is deciding to get on.” Now, this is not always the case – in fact probably never the case – for busy New Yorkers.

You can thank the lovely writers of one of my favorite Tom Hanks movies – The Polar Express – for this dose of inspirational quote; but you can thank the New York Transit Museum for making the quote somewhat a reality for nostalgic and holiday-happy New Yorkers this season. That’s because it truly doesn’t matter where the train is going when that train is… the Polar Express! Yes, that’s right. This season, you can ride the Polar Express right in the heart of the city!

Well… not quite. These trains won’t take you to the North Pole (didn’t we establish it doesn’t matter where they’re going?), but the hidden treasure Holiday Nostalgia Rides sponsored by the New York Transit Museum are still all kinds of magical. From now until December 30th you can hop on an MTA train and be transported – literally and figuratively. And no, not to post-apocalyptic New York, which I would imagine might be something like a dirty, empty subway car at night, but to the refinement, drama, and panache of the 1930’s.

Here are the deets: On Sundays from November 25th through December 30th you can hop on one of the museum’s vintage 1930’s R1-9 train cars with just one swipe of your MetroCard! The train will make express stops along the F line track between 2nd Avenue and 47th-50th Streets – Rockefeller Center and will then travel up to 125th Street along the A/C/D lines.

Here’s a look at the exact stops – maybe you’d like to travel in style on your way to an otherwise intended destination.

The trains will depart from 2nd Avenue at 10am, 12pm, 2pm, and 4pm. From 125th Street they will take off at 11am, 1pm, 3pm, and 5pm. Don’t be late!

Now, if you’re anything like me, you love anything vintage and you love a theme party. So what could be more fun than a vintage theme party? That travels through the greatest city on Earth? Goodbye 1920’s lawn parties on Governor’s Island, hello 1930’s glamour parties on subway cars! New Yorkers and visitors alike have taken this opportunity to dress up in their finest 30’s garb and celebrate the holiday season with flair. So make tracks and get out to the subways to star in the film of your life – think Polar Express meets Golden Age of Hollywood.

 If trains aren’t your cup of tea, we’ve got you covered.

The Holiday Nostalgia Rides aren’t just limited to trains, you may just find yourself on one of the museum’s vintage buses from the 50’s or 60’s. The buses will be on the M42 bus route, running East to West (and vice versa) on 42nd Street. Union Square and Herald Square will also have old-fashioned buses you can explore. The schedule for the buses? A little more flexible – they’re picking you up Monday through Friday from 9am to 5pm from December 3rd until December 21st.

You might be thinking, “Wow. There are so many holiday things to do in New York. Should this be one of them?” Absolutely. Make no mistake – the Holiday Nostalgia Rides travels up the F line (AKA 6th Avenue) in Manhattan on purpose. The museum says this route is not just practical, but was chosen “as an ode to the holiday shopping season.” That way, your travel can be part of your holiday excursions. An end in-and-of-itself, not just the stressful means to an end. You can stop off at the Rockefeller Tree, see the window displays on 5th Avenue, visit the Winter Village at Bryant Park, or even end your night at Radio City – who’s Christmas Spectacular is… spectacular.

Now, if you’re still feeling overwhelmed with holiday sightseeing, I’ll let you in on one brilliant secret: take a tour. In fact, TopDogTours offers a two-hour New York Holiday Tour that brings you to all the must-see destinations and gives you some local and historic insight that you wouldn’t have heard on your own.

New York is a Mecca of great desserts with world class bakeries and cafes on practically every corner.

However, there are a few iconic places that rise above the competition and become sought-after stops by New York locals and tourists alike. These bakeries are spread out across New York’s most popular neighborhoods, so trying to visit them is both a great self-guided New York tour and a dessert lover’s dream come true. Whether they rely on eye-catching, Instagram ready looks or just simple pastries made better than you’ve ever had them before, these five locations are the perfect stops if you’re looking for a new, unique foodie experience in New York. So grab your family and friends for an afternoon, come hungry, and enjoy your very own Manhattan Pastry Crawl!

Milk Bar Midtown

Our crawl starts in Midtown with the iconic Milk Bar, part of a dessert empire owned by celebrity chef Christina Tosi. This unassuming spot shot to fame when Tosi began selling her now famous Crack Pie at a small bakery in the East Village in 2008. From there, she went on to create Naked Layer cakes with unfrosted sides, a Compost Cookie with odd ingredients like potato chips and pretzels, Birthday Cake Truffles made from leftover baking scraps, and a soft serve ice cream that tastes exactly like Cereal Milk. After Milk Bar’s meteoric rise to fame, Christina Tosi became a judge for the cooking show Masterchef on FOX, and Milk Bar has been the subject of an entire episode of Chef’s Table on Netflix. This trendy spot is the perfect first stop on your Pastry Crawl.

Dough Doughnuts

Located just a few blocks south of the iconic Flatiron Building, Dough Doughnuts has attempted to perfect a refined version of the treat made throughout the world. Judging by the constant stream of both tourists and locals, they seem to have succeeded. Dough’s huge doughnuts are made in small batches throughout the day in full view of the store, so everyone can see the doughnut making process. As they say on their website, “buying a doughnut is an experience, not just a product.” Our suggestion? The Lemon Poppy is one of their most popular doughnuts, or try the Hibiscus for a unique, Instagram ready experience. Your taste buds (and follower count) will thank you.

Breads Bakery

How does a spot with a simple name like Breads Bakery keep up with the other Instagram-friendly options in New York? By simply being one of the best. Breads specializes in artisanal, handmade breads and pastries using traditional techniques from pastry chef Uri Scheft’s hometown of Tel Aviv, Israel. Their chocolate babka with dark chocolate and Nutella has been a neighborhood favorite since the bakery opened in 2013, and the decadent treat quickly rose to the level of New York icon. Just a few blocks south of Dough and west of bustling Union Square, this simple shop with a mom-and-pop feel is not one to be missed.

Dominque Ansel Kitchen

Opened in 2011, this simple bakery may be responsible for starting New York’s pastry craze. They are most famous for the “Cronut,” a flaky pastry that’s a cross between a donut and croissant. This simple pastry idea took New York by storm, and with only a limited supply made daily in-house, the Cronut soon began selling out every morning within moments of the bakery opening. In their heyday, lines started before 6am, and desperate pastry lovers paid enterprising locals to stand in the line for them. The pastry was even named one of TIME Magazine’s best inventions of the year in 2013! Though the cronut is still notoriously difficult to get, Ansel has created a variety of other innovative desserts to satisfy dessert lovers, from a shot of vanilla milk in a chocolate chip cookie glass to the Frozen S’more.

Need a break from dessert before our final stop? SoHo is one of the best shopping districts in New York! Wander through stone streets and past historically landmarked buildings to find some of the best chain stores, designer boutiques, and pop-up shop surprises in New York.

Schmackary’s

Our final destination brings us back to Midtown for a cookie shop that has become a staple of New York’s theatrical community. Loved by actors and fans alike, Schmackary’s has been around since 2010 when owner Zachary “Schmackary” Schmahl opened a store to test the boundaries of typical, acceptable cookie flavors. Beyond just bringing in crowds for their exciting cookies, Schmackary’s is known for their Broadway Bakes fundraiser that puts some of Broadway’s biggest names like Idina Menzel or Sara Bareilles behind the cookie counter to take selfies with customers, sing a capella versions of their favorite show tunes, and (of course) serve great cookies. With over 45 unique flavors on a constant rotation boasting clever names like The Yogi Bare, The Hangover, or The Great White Way, this cute shop is sure to have a little something for sweet tooths everywhere.

One of the most common questions I get as a tour guide from both tourists and locals alike is about Broadway; more specifically how to score a good, but cheap seat.

And honestly despite Broadway being one of our biggest industries in NYC, this is not an easy question to answer. There are so many avenues to choose from and it’s hard to know which paths are the right ones and which ones are laden with pitfalls and booby traps. However, I believe that despite it’s overwhelming nature everyone deserves to breathe in the “magic perfume” of a Broadway house and spend their vacation watching their childhood fantasies come alive in the Lion King or a grandiose gothic classic like Phantom of the Opera. So in an attempt to keep theatre fun and stress free, I am going to list and link all of the surefire ways to get a ticket to a Broadway show and what to look out for if you want to make your first experience calamity free.

Do Your Research

So first thing’s first. What show do you want to see? There are over 40 different Broadway houses, so that means there is a possibility of having up to 40 shows to choose from. And you might only have time for one. But don’t panic. This is the fun part. This is when you get to have total control over your viewing experience. Do you want something funny or romantic? Classic or contemporary? Musical or play? Once you decide this the rest of the buying process will be simpler. A great resource for everything currently running on broadway including the shows’ age restrictions, synopses, and cast lists is Broadway.com. This is where you will be able to find the show or shows that are right for you.

Online

So you’re on Broadway.com and you’ve settled on three choices for shows: Lion King, Anastasia, and Once On This Island, but now you have another choice to make. Do you buy the in advanced or once you get to the city. For a lot of people this is a no brainer. Broadway.com will let you buy tickets straight from their reputable website at full price. But there is a catch. Whether you’re on telecharge, ticketmaster, or broadway.com there will be a very hefty service fee added to your tickets. So a $177.00 Lion King ticket turns into a $244.00 dollar ticket at checkout, which is a big difference. Also, when buying online you must make sure you are buying from a reputable site. The safest bet is to buy directly from the Broadway show’s website to buy the ticket (i.e. chicagothemusical.com). And in spite of staggering fees sometimes buying in advanced, online at full price is the only sure way to get a ticket. A family of four is never going to win the Lion King lottery, I’m sorry, but it’s not happening.

Box Office

If you are a local or happen to be in town a few days before you want to see a show, going to the box office of the theatre is another great option for full priced tickets. The theaters open at 10am most days and they don’t charge you outrageous servicing fees. This also gives you the chance to explore the historical theatre district, look at the flashing lights of Times Square, and maybe even catch a glimpse of a Broadway star out of costume.

Scalpers

Don’t buy tickets off the street. I repeat: DON’T BUY TICKETS OFF THE STREET. Sure they have laminated I.D. cards and they’re screaming at you about Lion King deals, but I could find a way to laminate a card if I really wanted to and it’s New York everyone is assertive. They’re just trying to make a profit. They will have fake online services, they will stand next to Tkts in Times Square dressed in red coats to tempt and trick tourists. They are not reputable, they are scalpers. Some are rumored to have been there since the dawn of time. Sporting nicknames like Richie the Rat and Momma, these old standards of Broadway are either going to sell you fake tickets or tickets that are completely overpriced and you won’t know it until you’ve signed your life away.

Discounts: Rush and Lottery

So you don’t want to pay the online fees, you’ve successfully navigated the Times Square scalpers, but the Box Office’s full price tickets for Anastasia are still too steep. This is where discounts come in. There are 4 popular ways to get discounts on Broadway shows: Rush, Lottery, TodayTix, and TKTS by TDF. Rush and Lottery are handled by theatres themselves. Rush refers to when you go to the box office of a theatre the morning of the show and buy a 30-50 dollar ticket with no fees attached. Lottery refers to when you submit your name either online or in person in the hopes of being chosen for a 10-50 dollar ticket. Each theatre and each show is different so two great websites that list all of the rules for rush and lottery are playbill.com and broadwayforbrokepeople.com. They are updated regularly and very clearly lay out everything you need to know about these processes. Now if you don’t have the time or the energy to test your luck with the lottery or to get up early and sit outside of a theatre at 6am for a rush(looking at you Mean Girls) there are two other ways of getting discounts.

TodayTix

This is a popular online service that does unfortunately have fees but they do same day deals for a lot of Broadway shows like Head Over Heels and they host online lotteries for shows like Cursed Child. They also have a very user friendly app. The seats aren’t generally the best but a seat in a theatre is a seat. If you’d like a discount for your first purchase, you can use this promo code: PMJAG.

TKTS by TDF

TKTS is a 50 year old theatre discount legend. Their main location is under the red steps in the middle of Times Square and they are known for selling same day discounts on premium seats for most Broadway shows. Since these are premium seats offered, still expect to shell out anywhere from 60-120 dollars per ticket, but all three of their locations post their actual prices after the fees and taxes so you’ll know what you’re getting into before waiting up to an hour in line (90 minutes during high tourist season) for a ticket. General rules of thumb for Tkts: download the app to keep track of what’s available that day. You can’t buy off the app, but it does show you the list of shows and prices. Check the weather so you can make sure you’re properly prepared to wait in line. Consider using the other 2 locations not in the middle of Times Square, there might be less of a wait. Always have a few options beforehand. If 4 seats together to Anastasia is no longer a possibility by the time you get to the front of the line, you’re going to need a second plan. Tkts accepts cash and credit card and their 5 dollar fee goes to supporting theatre accessibility programs for students and for children with autism. Tdf even has its own online membership that gives access to cheap online tickets if you pay an annual subscription. More info about tkts and tdf is here: https://www.tdf.org/nyc/7/TKTS-ticket-booths

Remember To Have Fun!

This is by far the most important tip of all. No matter how you get your ticket, no matter how far you’ve traveled, at the end of the day you get the chance to take part in history and merriment and see a Broadway show, a New York and American cultural staple. So get a drink from the bar, find your seats, sit back, relax, and enjoy the show.

Whether you are a tourist or a local, everyone wants an amazing photo for holiday cards or even just to show off during family dinners.

New York City offers countless opportunities for pictures any time of year but is particularly magical over the holidays! Many stores throughout the city have decorated storefronts and you can find an abundance of Christmas trees throughout the parks. If you are passing through on a short trip, you may also want to consider getting a nice family photo while visiting one of the sights on your list! Perhaps consider packing a few Santa hats or reindeer antlers, you never know when you will stumble upon the perfect location for your holiday card! Here are a few places to consider.

Central Park

Let’s start with a classic! Central Park is always a must see in any season. Although it is extremely popular (it sees an average of 40 million visitors per year!) the park is so large and has so many twists and turns you can find a private corner to yourself and have a photo shoot. You could get a photo with the charming turtle pond or the impressive Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir. Or maybe the kids would enjoy climbing one of the many large boulders scattered throughout the park for a more adventurous picture. There is even a castle in the park! You may need a little patience if you want a private photo with the Bethesda Fountain or walking down the long promenade known as “The Mall” since these are some of the more popular areas of the park but they are definitely worth it. The options really are endless!

South Street Seaport

Another destination that offers something for everyone is the South Street Seaport district in Lower Manhattan. It is a historical shipping port, very essential to NYC commerce, dating back to the 17th century and still is a shopping destination in its own right. Today you will still find delightful brick paved streets lined with designer stores, boutiques, and unique eateries. They also offer a holiday market during the season, perfect for gift shopping. But what really sets this neighborhood apart from the rest is its grand vista of New York Harbor. You could grab a breathtaking family photo with the Brooklyn Bridge. Perhaps you would prefer a photo of you and your bestie in front of the pretty Christmas tree, standing on a charming, historical street. You cannot beat the Seaport district for a classy holiday photo, sure to blow all your relatives away!

Bryant Park

One of the best holiday markets in the city can be found in Bryant Park every year. There is an ice skating rink for you athletic families. There are dozens of vendors serving up delicious treats and handmade gifts. Anywhere you go in the Winter Village you are sure to find a wonderful backdrop for your family photo. Here’s a handy tip: one of the best Christmas trees can be found east of the skating rink and makes for an impressive photo. It is also much less crowded than its more famous counterpart in Rockefeller Center.

Rockefeller Center

Speaking of Rockefeller Center, the number one destination every holiday season also has some incredible options for holiday photos. The legendary Rockefeller Christmas Tree is always worth getting a look at. If you come very early in the morning or late at night, you have a better shot at getting a more private photo. But there are some other cool holiday photo ops you may want to consider. How about the LEGO store? In the store windows and throughout the store you can find many gigantic lego models, some of which are holiday themed! There is also the most popular ice skating rink in the city, featuring the Prometheus statue. You are also very close to St. Patrick’s cathedral, a beautiful building both inside and out which offers countless opportunities for pictures. The fifth avenue store fronts are also a great place to window shop and may offer the perfect backdrop for the holiday card! Explore Rockefeller Center and the surrounding areas can fill even the most grumpiest person with the holiday spirit!

The Statue of Liberty

The Statue of Liberty is the top tourist attraction in NYC. Your ticket includes three short ferry rides of New York Harbor which offer incredible views and the perfect opportunity to snag a holiday photo with Lady Liberty. Consider getting some funny hats or maybe some matching sweaters and you can kill two birds with one stone: getting a great photo and visiting an incredible monument. There are many places to wander on the island, and you can get some amazing pictures with the skyline. The Statue of Liberty is sure to make an impressive addition to your family holiday card!

BONUS: Ellis Island

If you take my last bit of advice and visit the Statue of Liberty, you are also able to visit Ellis Island which is truly one of the most valuable experiences available in the city, especially for American citizens. It also happens to boast some beautiful architecture which make a fantastic backdrop for a family photo. You can also search for your own relatives that came through the island during its time as an immigration center. It is a building with a fascinating history that may very well connect with your own family’s story. It is an excellent location for a truly meaningful holiday card, because at the end of the day, the holidays are about family.

The Holidays are a big deal here in New York City.

We have some of the most oldest traditions and the biggest and brightest decorations. If you find yourself getting some Christmas-time blues or just want to have a great outing with your family, NYC offers some amazing opportunities for a day trip. Whether you like to shop or skate or take tons of pictures you cannot go wrong with a visit to the city during the holiday season. Take a look at some of my favorite excursions NYC has to offer!

The Holiday Train Show

A tradition for New Yorkers and tourists alike is just a hop, skip, and jump away from Manhattan but is more than worth a trip on the subway or Metro North. Located in the Bronx, The New York Botanical Garden is an incredible attraction any time of year. But visitors come back year after year for the Holiday Train Show. Fantastic for families with children of all ages, you can see model trains roll through a miniature NYC made out of plants! There is over half a mile of track and more trains than ever this year. They also add additional landmarks. The scaled Statue of Liberty, One World Trade Center, and Yankee Stadium are classics, but this year they have introduced a sailing element with two replica vintage ferry boats joining the display for the first time. This event is perfect for train enthusiasts, architecture lovers, and gardeners alike. It is a can’t miss attraction this holiday season.

You can f

ind more information here: https://www.nybg.org/event/holiday-train-show/holiday-train-show/

Ice Skating

Another NYC classic Winter activity is ice skating. There are many places in the city that offer skating. The most popular rink is Rockefeller Center; Holiday Central here in Manhattan. Be prepared to wait, but you cannot beat skating in front of the Prometheus Statue with the famous Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree soaring above you! If you were hoping to beat the crowds, the Wollman Rink in Central Park tends to be quieter due to the availability of other rinks during the holiday season. You can also check out the rest of the park with a cup of hot cocoa to finish up your day trip! Another fantastic holiday skating option is in the Winter Village at Bryant Park, nestled in the middle of its famous holiday market. No matter which rink you choose, you are sure to have a lot of active fun skating in the city!

Exploring Lower Manhattan

Go South to find many charming holiday installations alongside historical sites for a great day trip. You can visit Federal Hall, where George Washington was inaugurated and then walk a few steps down the road and see the stock exchange, complete with its own fabulous Christmas tree! South Street Seaport is close by as well; a historical shipping port with brick-lined streets and lots of shopping options, it is always decked out for the holidays. Zuccotti Park has a wide variety of trees complete with twinkling tea lights, it makes a great photo op! The 9/11 Memorial, Wall Street Bull, and Battery Park are also within the vicinity. You could spend a whole day exploring all this incredible neighborhood which has even more to offer during the holiday season.

Holiday Market Hopping

One of my favorite things about the city this time of year is the wide variety of holiday markets. Taking on a European tradition of Christmas markets, NYC offers several great destinations for gift shopping and tasty treats. The most popular market is the Bryant Park Winter Village which offers over 170 vendors selling everything from handm

ade jewelry to fancy grilled cheese! It also has that skating rink I mentioned and a charming Christmas tree. They have a new pop-up food hall this year right called ‘The Lodge’ next to the rink if you work up an appetite! If you are more interested in supporting local crafters, the NY Holiday Handmade Cavalry is for you. This festival hops between various locations throughout the season and offers the opportunity to purchase something one of a kind. If you are lucky, they occasionally offer free goody bags to lucky shoppers with coupons and swag. The Chelsea Market location even boasts some tasty holiday cocktails! If you feel up to a Brooklyn adventure, the WinterFest located outside the grounds of the Brooklyn Museum, it a 40,000 square foot extravaganza with countless options for shopping and food. They have amazing mulled wine and they have a Santaland with a Mr. and Mrs. Claus who pose for photos. Other holiday markets can be found in Union Square and Columbus Circle. You could spend an afternoon visiting one or two markets or go crazy and spend a long weekend so you can see them all!

Bryant Park Winter Village is open through January 2nd.

NY Holiday Handmade Cavalry will be at Chelsea Market December 3rd-9th and at the Brooklyn Historical Society December 15th and 16th. You can find more information here: https://www.newyorkled.com/event/2018-holiday-handmade-cavalcade-markets-in-nyc/

WinterFest is open through December 3rd.

Union Square Holiday Market is open through December 24th.

The Columbus Circle Holiday Market is open through December 24th.

We’re offering a special discount to all of our newsletter subscribers for all tours booked in November*.

To get the discount codes head over to the sidebar -> (or the bottom of the page on mobile) and Join the Email list.

You will receive an email with the latest newsletter and discount codes good for:

• 15% off any tour!

*Tours do not need to be attended in November, but booked in November. 

Thanks for being our guest!

New York City is fabulous but can be claustrophobic at times, too. All those buildings blotting out  the sky and humans jostling for space can leave you craving the countryside. When you start to dream of cool breezes and wildlife other than pigeons doing fly-bys into your personal space, it’s time to get out of the city.

Luckily there are plenty of ways to escape, all of them accessible via New York’s commuter rails. So hop on a train where you’ll snake along the Hudson River, barrel toward the beaches of
Long Island, or journey to the Garden State. The question is: where should you get off?

Metro-North

Beacon, NY

The main attraction here is Dia:Beacon, an art museum which features large-scale sculptures by the the likes of artists such as Richard Serra. The 300,000-square-foot museum was once a Nabisco box printing factory—wandering around you’ll notice the industrial vibe that the wide open space creates. Dia:Beacon sits on the banks of the Hudson River so there’s beauty inside and out.

A short walk away, the town of Beacon has cafés, pubs, art galleries, and antique shops to keep you busy all day. A local favorite is The Pandorica, a Dr. Who-themed café that welcomes “Whovians and non-Whovians alike.”

Getting there: take the Metro-North from Grand Central to Beacon. Travel time is approx. 88 min. Dia:Beacon is a 10-minute walk from the station.

Cold Spring, NY

Cold Spring is another lovely little river town to poke around in. The main reason to head up this way, though, is for some peaceful and scenic hiking. Trekking up Breakneck Ridge will give you the best views of the Hudson Valley. The hike is rated as difficult. It’s pretty steep in some spots and rock scrambling may be involved. If that’s something you’re excited about, then the rugged views overlooking the Hudson River are totally worth the effort.

Head back into town afterwards for a much-deserved beverage or treat. Hint: Moo Moo’s Creamery doesn’t lie when they say they’re the world’s best ice cream shop.

Getting there: take the Metro-North from Grand Central to Cold Spring. Travel time is approx. 80 min. On Saturdays and Sundays, the Metro-North stops directly at the trailhead—get off at Breakneck Ridge station.

Long Island Railroad

Long Beach, NY

Brooklyn’s Coney Island and Brighton Beach serve a purpose on sweltering days but they’re city beaches, so they’re crowded beaches. Long Beach, on the south shore of Long Island, is a gift. It’s 3.5 miles of powder sand stretching along the Atlantic Ocean, and completely accessible by public transit.

In 2012, Hurricane Sandy hit Long Beach pretty hard; as a result there’s a brand new boardwalk. There’s also a wide beach, surf schools, and places to grab lunch, drinks, and ice cream. No need to lug your beach chair or umbrella; those can be rented once you arrive. It’s an easy summer-day escape.

Getting there: take the LIRR from Penn Station to Long Beach. Travel time is approx. 53 min.

Planting Fields Arboretum, Oyster Bay

In the center of this 400-acre opulent estate sits a Gilded Age-era mansion known as Coe Hall. William Coe earned his wealth in the insurance business and built Coe Hall as his country
home. Inside are hallways lined with decadently furnished rooms, including one that acted as a speakeasy since the home was finished during the early years of Prohibition.

Coe Hall is surrounded outside by intricately manicured gardens with pleasant pathways and beautiful foliage. The grounds serve as a public garden and educational arboretum. Orchids,
palms, and ferns grow inside a greenhouse, plus spectacular seasonal poinsettias and Easter lilies.

Don’t miss the sensory garden, where visitors can indulge in such pleasures as the taste of fresh blackberries and the smell of lavender.

Getting there: take the LIRR from Penn Station to Oyster Bay. Travel time is approx. 1 hr. 20 min. Take a taxi 1.5 miles to Planting Fields.

NJ Transit

Princeton, NJ

One of the prettiest sites in the Garden State is Princeton University. The fourth oldest college in the United States is a perfect specimen of Ivy League prestige. The overall design of the
campus is an architectural style known as Collegiate Gothic, which somehow makes it appear subdued and majestic at the same time. The college’s art museum is worth a look—they’ve
been collecting art since the college’s founding in 1746, so some pieces pre-date the American Revolution.

The campus sits on the edge of downtown Princeton, a charming and walkable city. There are plenty of places to grab a meal or sit in a café and rub elbows with Ivy Leaguers. Yankee
Doodle Tap Room is a casual place to grab a bite and check out the huge, original Normal Rockwell painting.

Getting there: take NJ Transit from Penn Station; change trains at Princeton Junction for Princeton Station. Travel time is approx. 1 hour 5 min. Princeton University is a 10-minute walk
from Princeton Station.

Grounds for Sculpture, Hamilton, NJ

Spend the day exploring 42 acres of large-scale art installations set on the former site of the New Jersey Fairgrounds. There is a selection of rotating and permanent exhibits. Besides being an open-air sculpture museum, the grounds serve as an arboretum; you can stroll on tree-lined paths or around a lake ringed with weeping willows, mixed in with spectacular artwork dotting
the landscape.

Over 2 million visitors come each year for the art, as well as the many workshops, tours, and lectures. Grounds for Sculpture is open year-round. It’s worth it to have a look at different times of year to see how the art interacts with nature—as the light and colors of the seasons change, so do the lights and colors of the sculptures.

Getting there: take NJ Transit from Penn Station to Hamilton Station. Travel time is approx. 1 hour 30 min. Take a taxi 2 miles to Grounds for Sculpture.

Incredible Family-Friendly Experiences

Top Dog Tours wins the first annual GetYourGuide Awards for incredible travel experiences.

The list, announced on October 15th, celebrates excellence in the tours and activities industry by category and region. Winners were selected by a team of GetYourGuide judges using a proprietary algorithm across a variety of happiness metrics, including average review score, net promoter score, review language quality, booking volume, and number of reviews.

“Travel activities create the long-lasting vacation memories travelers remember most fondly and talk about years later,” said Johannes Reck, CEO and co-founder of GetYourGuide. “The tours recognized in the first annual GetYourGuide Awards for incredible travel experiences have enhanced millions of vacations worldwide, and we are pleased to recognize their contribution in helping travelers truly love where they’re going.”

Winning Tour: 

Marvel & DC Superheros in New York

Calling all true believers!  Take an in-depth look into the superhero and comic world in a way that only New York City can deliver. Check out iconic superhero movie sites, see where the writers and artists created your favorite characters, stroll down publishers row and see some of the most recognizable sites in New York City. Learn the answer to the age old question: Is New York Gotham or Metropolis? Excelsior!

Take the Tour!

Methodology:

To compile the GetYourGuide Awards, an internal team of destination experts analyzed and ranked GetYourGuide’s global inventory of 31,000 products in 7,500 destinations in key categories and regions. Analysis was conducted using a proprietary algorithm that assigns weighted values across a variety of happiness metrics, including average review score, net promoter score, and review language quality (analyzed through natural language processing) as well as bookings volume and number of reviews. Products that scored highly across these metrics met the threshold for a GetYourGuide Award and were selected for recognition. The 2018 awards recognize excellence for products booked between the dates of September 6, 2017 and September 6, 2018.

About GetYourGuide

GetYourGuide is the booking platform for incredible travel experiences. Powered by a global team of over 400 travel experts, GetYourGuide helps travelers find the best things to do wherever they’re headed — including skip-the-line tickets to the world’s most iconic attractions, walking tours by top local experts, immersive food and beverage tours, cooking and craft classes, bucket-list experiences and niche offerings you won’t find anywhere else. Since its founding in 2009, travelers from more than 155 countries have booked over 20 million tours, activities, and attraction tickets through GetYourGuide. The company is based in Berlin, Germany and has offices in 14 countries around the world. For more information, please visit www.getyourguide.com.

Happy Fall!

We’re offering a special discount to all of our newsletter subscribers for Ghosts tours and Superheros tours booked in October*.

To get the discount codes head over to the sidebar or the bottom of the page (on mobile) and Join the Email list.

You will receive an email with the latest newsletter and discount codes good for:

• $5 off group Ghost Tours
• $10 off Private Ghost Tours
• 20% off Superhero tours

*Tours do not need to be attended in October, but booked in October. 

We look forward to having you as a guest!

Belvedere Castle in Central Park is closed for the remainder of 2018 while it undergoes extensive, much-needed renovations.

The Gothic structure was designed by Calvert Vaux who, along with Frederick Law Olmsted, designed Central Park, which first opened to the public in 1858. Vaux didn’t intend for the castle to serve any real function except as an ornamental structure and eye-catching landmark.

It was strategically placed so that when pedestrians were down on the Mall, the castle’s waving flag beckoned them to come closer. When they headed for the castle, they had to walk by Bethesda Terrace and the Ramble on their way, catching some of the most beautifully designed areas in the park.

Over the years, Belvedere Castle took on a more important role than that of a “folly.” In 1919, the National Weather Service began using it as the official source of weather in Central Park. Those scientific instruments planted in its turret measure wind speed and direction.

From the castle’s perch on Vista Rock, panoramic views can be seen of the Great Lawn, Delacorte Theater, and Turtle Pond, so it’s no wonder it’s one of the most visited landmarks in Central Park.

That wasn’t always the case, though. By the 1970s, the castle was empty and deteriorating. All of Central Park was in a dire state. The lawns consisted mostly of dirt, scattered with sporadic chunks of dying grass. Benches were rickety and broken, and Belvedere Castle was a frequent target of graffiti.

Concerned citizens banded together and formed the Central Park Conservancy in 1980. The Conservancy is now a nonprofit organization tasked with the upkeep of the entire 843-acre park. The Conservancy works with the City of New York, but is responsible for raising the bulk of its annual budget each year. In 2016, they unveiled a ten-year plan to raise $300 million for major, long-term upgrades throughout the park. Their money comes in from foundations, corporations, and individual donors.

In 1983, just a few years after the Conservancy came together, they restored Belvedere Castle to its previous grandeur. Since then, in addition to being an official
source of weather, it is one of the five visitor centers in Central Park. Inside the Henry Luce Nature Observatory, visitors can borrow Discovery Kits and then head out into the park to birdwatch, and investigate and record the area’s flora and fauna. Unfortunately, they’ll be closed to visitors until the castle reopens. Check here for the park’s four other visitor centers.

This is the most major renovation the castle has undergone since it was rehabbed from its dilapidated state in 1983. The planned renovations are massive and will repair and/or replace the drainage and waterproofing systems, the terrace pavement, windows and doors, and interior floors and ceilings. There will also be major upgrades to the exterior and interior masonry. The Conservancy also aims to make the castle and the path leading to it ADA accessible.

The work on Belvedere Castle is one of a handful of planned major renovations in the park. Other sites that will see upgrades include playgrounds, arches, and bridges, and there will be general improvements to landscape and infrastructure. Douglas Blonsky, the recently-retired CEO of the Conservancy said, “…we believe the time is right for a cultural renaissance for Central Park.” (On March 1, 2018, Elizabeth W. Smith took over as CEO).

In all, the park’s facelift is expected to cost $300 million dollars.

No specific date is set for the castle’s reopening, but for now, visitors will have to bypass the treat of Belvedere Castle, whose name translates in Italian to “beautiful view.”

The Start of a City: Visitors flock to The Battery in huge numbers, mainly to board the ferry to Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty.

But the 25-acre park on the southernmost tip of Manhattan is worth a second look. The Battery Conservancy was formed in the mid-1990s to address the disrepair the park had fallen into and since then, the area has become a thriving urban park. Its landscaped gardens and wide open, waterfront space are a far cry from the origins of The Battery, which earned its name in the 17th century when artillery batteries were positioned there to protect the settlement known as New Amsterdam. So, the next time you’re in The Battery, stick around—maybe even spend the day. You’ll find plenty to do, but here’s a list to get you started.

Tour Castle Clinton National Monument

It’s one of many monuments in the park, but the storied history puts Castle Clinton in a category all its own. It came into existence as a military fort, intended to repel British attacks (which never came) in the War of 1812. Decades later, in 1855, it preceded Ellis Island in becoming the official processing station for new immigrants to the United States, which means that many of the 8 million people who arrived from foreign lands didn’t yet have the magnificent Statue of Liberty to greet them in harbor. She was dedicated in 1886, just four years before Castle Clinton stopped receiving immigrants. For about the next 45 years, the circular structure housed the New York City Aquarium. Since then, it has operated as a beer garden and a theater, and today it’s a national monument and ticket office for the Statue of Liberty.

Learn About History and Culture

More than 20 monuments are scattered throughout the park that pay tribute to the history, culture, and significant events of the city, state, and nation. Key war memorials include the American Merchant Mariner’s Memorial, which recognizes all merchant marines who have served since the Revolutionary War; there are also memorials to commemorate World War II and Korean War veterans. But the tributes aren’t all war related—a plaque honors Emma Lazarus, the poet who wrote the famous inscription on the Statue of Liberty’s pedestal. There are also monuments dedicated to various groups of settlers and immigrants who have molded the city and country into what it is today. See here for a full list of the park’s monuments.

Enjoy Green Space and Solitude

Ride your bicycle or grab one from a nearby Citi Bike sharing station to peddle along the Battery Bikeway, which connects the Hudson River Park Bikeway and the East River Esplanade to provide one long, scenic bike trail. You’ll find air stations and restrooms along the way for your convenience. If you’re looking for a more sedate activity, take a meditative walk in the Labyrinth (designed to honor the one-year anniversary of 9/11), have a seat in the two-acre lawn space known as the Oval, or dip your toes in the water jets at Bosque Fountain. To see how local school kids are learning sustainable farming methods, visit the Battery Urban Farm, and if you find yourself in the park on a hot summer day, find relief in the shady forest of native New York trees in the Battery Woodland.

Ride the Sea Glass Carousel

The spiral-shaped building was designed to look like a chambered nautilus, and inside is a collection of 30 shimmering fish which serve as the seats in this sea-themed merry-go-round. The light, movement, and music all combine to give riders a mystical, aquatic-like experience. The carousel opened in 2015 and honors the park as being the original location of the New York Aquarium, which eventually moved to Coney Island. Take note that the winter hours for riding the carousel are limited; check the website for specific times.

If you’ve experienced the attractions listed here, that’s a good start, but you’ve only just scraped the surface of all The Battery has to offer. There are plenty of restaurants where you can dine while enjoying New York’s iconic views—two favorites are Pier A and Gigino at Wagner Park. Museums just a short walk away include the National Museum of the American Indian, the Skyscraper Museum, and the Museum of Jewish Heritage.