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Where to Get Your Art Fix in New York City

w York City has a frankly ridiculous number of art galleries and museums. You can find art galleries, museums and photography galleries all over the town, including in Brooklyn and Queens. The biggest cluster, however, is in Manhattan, with an abundance in Chinatown, Chelsea, the Upper East side, Lower East Side, Soho and Midtown. If you’re visiting NYC for a few days and just can’t figure out which gallery to go to, well, this handy guide points you towards the best of the best.

David Zwirner

Let’s start with German expatriate David Zwirner’s offering. Since 1993, Zwirner has grown his gallery from relatively humble beginnings in Soho to an absolute behemoth, with global locations in London and Hong Kong, as well both up and down town. His gallery on West 19th Street exhibits work by international contemporary artists such as Luc Tuymans, Marcel Dzama, Chris Ofili, Lisa Yuskavage and Neo Rauch.  His West 20th Street building in Chelsea is a purpose built gallery building that hosts museum-quality shows of historical movements and figures. Additionally, he opened an NYC venue on East 69th Street in 2017.

MoMA PS1

Located in an extremely unique Romanesque Revival building that once used to be a public school, PS1 hosts a highly celebrated international studio program and mounts cutting-edge shows. You can’t wave your arm around without knocking over artwork. Every corner showcases a piece, as does the roof and even the stairwells! In 1999, PS1 became affiliated with MoMA in 1999. The two entities sometimes collaborate on exhibitions. In recent years, the art museum has showcased the work on international artists like Olafur Eliasson and Janet Cardiff and. Additionally, it hosts Warm Up, summer’s most fashionable Saturday-afternoon party.

Gagosian Gallery

Larry Gagosian might just be king of the gallery world, with 15 spaces all over the globe. His gigantic 20,000 square foot space in 24th Street is the jewel in his crown, launched in 1999 with a gargantuan installation by Richard Serra. Since then, there has been no stopping his galleries, with exhibitions featuring work by Damien Hirst, Ellen Gallagher, Ed Ruscha, Anselm Kiefer, Ed Ruscha, Andy Warhol and Julian Schnabel, among other luminaries.

New Museum of Contemporary Art

The New Museum originally opened in The New School, the place it takes its name from, back in 1977. It then moved to Soho and became part of its architectural landscape in the eighties and nineties. It was after that, in 2007, the New Museum was moved to its current location. It’s now housed in a visually distinctive seven-story building that was designed by Sejima + Nishizawa/SANAA, an avant-garde Tokyo architectural company. Apart from three main gallery levels, the building houses a café run by Hester Street Fair, a theater and roof terraces. Throughout its existence, as well as now, the New Museum has focused on emerging and underrated artists. Head on there to see artists you normally wouldn’t.

Gladstone Gallery

Need a fix of some daring Conceptualist art? Go to Gladstone Gallery, a firmly blue-chip gallery that exhibits bold artists like Anish Kapoor, Sarah Lucas and Matthew Barney. Gladstone Gallery has two locations in Chelsea, one on the Upper East Side and a branch in Brussels, Belgium.

Museum of Modern Art (MoMA)

MoMA has one of the finest collections of art from the 18th century, with art by iconic and venerated artists in virtually every corner. Crowds throng the space in late spring and summer, as well as around Christmas, when the best you can hope for might be a momentary glimpse of Picasso’s Les Demoiselles d’Avignon or Van Gogh’s Starry Night. There are also special exhibitions and large installations that are popular enough for people to wait for hours just for that specific exhibit. At other times of the year, New Yorkers will swarm in on Friday nights, when admission is free. Your best bet on enjoying this space is buying an all-inclusive ticket online for $25. This will allow you to skip the line and find peacefully move through the gallery.

CLEARING

The New York branch of a gallery in Brussels, Belgium, this Brooklyn space focuses on contemporary art by a global roster of young and emerging artists with zeitgeist sensibilities. An Upper East Side location was also recently added.

47 Canal

If you looked up avant-garde or cutting-edge in a picture dictionary, you should find 47 Canal mentioned there. Constantly pushing the envelope, the gallery originally opened in 2008 on Canal Street in an office kept by artist Margaret Lee, who runs it with her boyfriend Oliver Newton. Since then, the gallery has located to Grand Street with a roster that includes Anicka Yi, Antoine Catala and Trevor Shimizu.

The Metropolitan Museum of Art

This is the museum you’ve probably already heard of even if you don’t have much of an interest in art. Taking up over 13 astounding acres of Central Park, this sprawling museum boasts over 5,000 years of art from every corner of the world. From ancient mummified royalty to cutting edge fashion couture from last year’s runway, this is the institution that has it all. Of particular note is the Temple of Dendur, an Egyptian temple from 10 B.C. that once overlooked the Nile and was then transposed Sackler Wing to overlook a reflective pool. Other highlights include Grecian sculptures, European and Asian armor,  contemporary photography and medieval art. Buy advanced online tickets to skip the lines. If you’re on a budget, it’s advisable to come in early on weekdays and pay what they wish. If there’s one place you should visit multiple times, it’s definitely the Met. The special exhibits change every few months, and are always gems.

JTT

This LES showcase was started in 2012by Dealer Jasmin Tsou for emerging and under-appreciated artists in 2012. She raised the money herself at Miami’s NADA art fair where she had a small but immensely successful project booth. The gallery has done a lot for then underrated artists like Cole Slayer, Becky Kolsrud and Jamian Juliano-Villani.

Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum

As impressive as the Guggenheim’s modern art works collection is, it’s arguable that it’s the building itself that steals the show. A concrete inverted ziggernaut that resembles a Babylonian step pyramid, the design has invited both controversy and awe in equal measures. Created by Frank Lloyd Wright and opened in 1959 in New York just a few months after his death, it’s a feat of geometric shapes. The gallery space showcases art along a winding spiral that resembles a nautilus shell, with not much separating ideas, artists or even time periods. Take the elevator to the top of the museum and follow the gentle slope down, so the art reveals itself at different angles as you descend, and then across the open circular rotunda. It’s a one of a kind approach to display and viewing of art, and the building itself has inspired some stunning high concept exhibits by contemporary artists, including hundreds of sculptures by Maurizio Cattelan's hanging from the ceiling, and a series of films by Matthew Barney and. The price of admission might be steep ($25), but it’s so worth it.

Acquavella Galleries

A well-established gallery uptown, this is the last word in blue-chip venues. With gorgeous architectural details by Beaux-Arts, it offers museum-quality shows of both modernist and Impressionist masters. Its regular roster includes names like Enoc Perez, Zeng Fanzhi and Damian Loeb.

Michael Werner

Another German entry, this New York gallery was opened under the direction of Gordon VeneKlasen by renowned German art dealer Michael Werner in 1990. This gallery includes some of the most breathtaking artists in contemporary terms, including James Lee Byars , Aaron Curry, Per Kirkeby, Marcel Broodthaers, A.R. Penck, Markus Lüpertz, Peter Doig, Jörg Immendorff, Eugène Leroy ,Thomas Houseago, Don Van Vliet and Sigmar Polke. Contemporary American and European painting, drawing and sculpture rules the roster in this gallery, but it also specializes in works by modern masters including Wilhelm Lehmbruck, Kurt Schwitters, Hans Arp, Francis Picabia and Piero Manzoni.

Half Gallery

Founded in New York City by Bill Powers, this secretive gallery focuses only on the most recently up-and-coming  of up-and-coming artists.

Lévy Gorvy

Named for its founder Dominique Levy, who used to be a partner in L&M Fine Art, this gallery was opened in 2013 in a three-floor space in what used to be a bank building on the Upper East Side. Dominique Lévy partnered with Brett Gorvy, who used to be Chairman and International Head of Post-War and Contemporary Art at Christie’s at the end of 2016. At this point the gallery was renamed Lévy Gorvy. Lévy Gorvy also has a location in London in addition to New York.

Brooklyn Museum

A premier institution in Brooklyn, the Museum can be considered the less thronged alternative to some of the bigger name spaces in Manhattan, with impactful and innovative items. Located on the edge of the sprawling Prospect Park, it contains Judy Chicago’s renowned  feminist piece, The Dinner Party, as well as a large holding of Egyptian art. The collection also has works by Impressionists masters like Monet, Degas and Cézanne, as well as period rooms, examples of Early American Art, and so much more.

The Jewish Museum

Housed in the 1908 Warburg Mansion, the Jewish Museum has temporary exhibitions of both contemporary and modern art, as well as a considerable collection of artworks of Judaica and art. One permanent exhibit is specifically for children, and the little ones are also catered to through a restaurant that includes an Uptown outpost of Russ & Daughters, purveyors of Kosher delicacies like whitefish, lox and sable.

Whitney Museum of American Art

After spending 50 years in a building designed by Marcel Breur on Madison Avenue at 75th Street, the Whitney Museum was shifted to a new home in 2015 in the Meatpacking District in Lower Manhattan. This new building was designed by international celebrity architect Renzo Piano. The Whitney building now boasts an incredible 63,000 square feet of indoor as well as outdoor exhibition space. The Whitney museum was founded in 1931 by art patron and sculptor Gertrude Vanderbilt. It focuses on work by American artists, holding around 15,000 pieces by nearly 2,000 artists in its collection. This collection includes, Georgia O’Keeffe, Willem de Kooning, Jasper Johns, Alexander Calder, Edward Hopper (whose entire estate is housed by the museum), Claes Oldenburg and Louise Nevelson. It is most famous for its temporary shows, especially the Whitney Biennial, the exhibition everyone loves to hate. The Biennial remains the most prominent as well as the most controversial appraisal of contemporary art in America.

The Frick Collection

Originally built for industrialist Henry Clay Frick, this is a lavish residence that houses a private collection of masters from the 14th through the 19th centuries. The 1914 structure was designed in an 18th-century European style by Carrère & Hastings designed, with a reflecting pool and a beautiful interior court. The permanent collections include world-class paintings, sculpture and furniture by the likes of French cabinetmaker Jean-Henri Riesener Vermeer, Rembrandt, and Renoir.

Yossi Milo Gallery

With an impressive roster of global camera talent Yossi Milo is the place to go to for striking photography.  Be on the lookout for Pieter Hugo, Tierney Gearon and Philippe Gronon.

International Center of Photography School

New York City’s preeminent institution devoted exclusively to photography, the International Center of Photography was founded in 1974. Originally opening in the Willard Straight House on Fifth Avenue’s Museum Mile, it moved to a midtown address on Sixth Avenue in 1999, and then again to the Bowery in 2016. It has an exhibition space, a library housing thousands of biographical and photographic files, and a school.

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7 Must See Iconic Film Locations in New York City

If you’re a movie buff visiting New York City for the very first time, you are in for a treat and a half. Filmmakers have been using locations in the city as backdrops for their flicks for a long time now. From the Plaza Hotel to Central Park, here’s a rundown of some essential cinematic places you need to visit on your next trip to NYC. Don’t forget to pose for pictures!

Katz’s Delicatessen

You know the one. The diner was already famous for its pastrami sandwiches, but really gained recognition from its appearance in When Harry Met Sally as the place where Meg Ryan fakes that loud orgasm. The diner has leaned hard into that appearance: you can even sit at the same spot, underneath a sign that says, “Where Harry met Sally… hope you have what she had! Enjoy!” Katz’s also made an appearance in Donnie Brasco and Enchanted.

Katz’s has quite the history. It was established as a kosher restaurant way back in 1888, although then it was called Iceland and Katz. The change to Katz Delicatessen as it is now known came about in 1910. The deli was moved from its original site during the construction of the subway, and is now located on the southwest corner of Houston and Ludlow streets on the Lower East Side. A point of congregation for newly immigrated families on the Lower East side since the beginning of the 20th century, Katz’s is still committed to its original vision of serving authentic deli food.

Grand Central Station

A US National Historic Landmark, Grand Central Station was built in 1913 and on a good day is the busiest of NYC’s transport hubs. It’s where Will Smith found aliens in the locker room in Men in Black, as well as where some of I Am Legend’s exterior shots were filmed. Its concourse is where the flash mob scene in Friends with Benefits was filmed. And below the station is the Oyster Bar, where George Clooney lunches with his daughter in One Fine Day.

The Plaza Hotel

(Sex and the City, Home Alone 2)

Part of New York’s architectural heritage since 1907, the Plaza Hotel enjoys a reputation as one of NYC’s most luxurious hotels. It has long been used by celebrities and dignitaries, and several national singers have performed in its famed Persian Room, including Patti Page, Peggy lee and The Mills Brothers. While ownership of the hotel has changed hands a number of times over the years, it is currently owned by Sahara India Pariwat, an Indian business group.

You have seen the Plaza Hotel feature in plenty of movies, including The Great Gatsby, Bride Wars and Crocodile Dundee. It’s most famous cinematic appearance, however, has been in Home Alone 2: Lost in New York, as the base for Macaulay Culkin’s Kevin McCallister when he stays there after taking the wrong flight to New York instead of Florida. And thus, film history was made, as the young scamp canon balled into the pool, stuffed himself with desserts and thoroughly confused the management.

Empire State Building

If there is a building that simply screams “iconic”, it’s this one. Even non-movie goers recognize it as the building where King Kong swung around, a tiny blond figure in hand, as he fought off helicopters. Since the 1930 movie, this huge Art Deco building has been used in an incredible 250 TV shows and films, including An Affair to Remember, when Cary Grant waits for Deborah Kay to meet him on the 88th floor, unaware that she has been hit by a car. And its observation deck is where Meg Ryan’s character, a fan in-universe of An Affair to Remember meets Tom Hanks at the end of Sleepless in Seattle.

Tiffany & Company

Few places are as instantly evocative of a particular movie as Tiffany & company – Breakfast at Tiffany’s has the name in its very title, after all. It first became an unforgettable part of movie history when Audrey Hepburn steps out of a cab and looks through the windows in the movie’s iconic opening scene. “Nothing very bad could happen to you there,” says Holly Golightly as she breakfasts in front of the store, and indeed, the statement rings with a sense of truth. With sparkling window displays, a polished marble exterior and their signature turquoise boxes, Tiffany’s exudes a real sense of beauty and elegance. It has quite a history too, incepted as it was back in 1837 in Brooklyn, Connecticut.

The Met

The Metropolitan Museum of Art, or the Met as it’s more commonly known, is located on Fifth Avenue at the edge of Central Park. Boasting a location of over two million items, it’s one of the largest art galleries in the world, with a main building that stretches for a full quarter of a mile along Fifth Avenue. You’ve seen it, again, in When Harry Met Sally, when Meg Ryan and Billy Crystal stroll through the Egyptian Room. And it’s in the 90s remake of The Thomas Crown Affair, when Pierce Brosnan steals a Monet painting (although in this example, you can only see its exterior, since the Met did not wish to be associated with even a fictional theft).

New York Public Library

The New York Public Library’s Schwarzman Building is probably one of the most grandiose in New York, with its marble walls, chandeliers, ceilings frescoes and grand sweeping staircases. Its Rose Reading Room alone is nearly two blocks longs long and 15 meters high, its ceiling painted with gorgeous clouds. It features as all kinds of buildings in movies – it was the foyer of The Met in The Thomas Crown Affair, as well as where Carrie’s failed wedding to Big took place in Sec and the City: The Movie. However, it’s best known for the place where the Ghostbusters were able to hunt down librarian Eleanor Twitty’s Ghost. It’s also featured in The Day After Tomorrow.

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The Best Of February Activities For You In The NYC

A lot of the time when I write about the person that I love, I feel like I'm writing about New York. - Lana Del Rey

One of the best things about living in and touring NYC is that the city truly knows how to entertain!

With February just around the corner, you may want to think about making this place your next vacation spot. With lesser crowds but no less events this time of the year, you can look forward to a quieter and enjoyable couple or family trip in the NYC.

To help you get started on your itinerary, we’ve rounded the events and activities taking place in New York in February.

Here’s the breakdown folks…

Restaurant Week

When: January 22nd – February 9th

Where: Many NYC restaurants

If you’re in NYC in Feb and you’re starving after your sightseeing tour, lucky you! Look forward to enjoying a 5-start meal at a popular NYC restaurant for less than half of the regular price, because more than 300 of the city’s top restaurants are offering 3 courses on prix-fixe menus at unbeatable rates! Prices run at $42 for a dinner menu or $29 for lunch (tip and tax not included).

Love In Times Square

When: February 14th

Where: Times Square

This Valentine’s Day, plan something particularly special for your beloved by bringing them to the city of New York. Love in Times Square is a ceremony where couples essentially renew their vows on the iconic red steps (registration required). You can take part, or just watch as couples pledge themselves to one another—either way, it’s time warmly spent!

Ice-Hockey Game

When: February 15th

Where: Barclays Center, Downtown Brooklyn

When in NYC on a family vacation, don’t miss out on enjoying a fantastic wild ride that is a face-paced ice hockey game. The city is home to two ice hockey teams: the New York Islanders at Barclays Center in Brooklyn, and the New York Rangers at Madison Square Garden. And on February 15th, the two teams will be come face to face for a particularly heated game on ice. Book your seats!

President’s Day  

When: February 19th 

Where: Madame Tussauds Wax Museum

Next to Washington D.C., NYC is home to the most sites which our country’s past and present president’s visit. This President’s Day, you can honor them with a trip to the Federal Hall, where Washington was inaugurated as President, check out Fraunces Tavern Museum, tour the Trump buildings in the city, travel to Clinton’s offices in Harlem, or stop by the Roosevelt’s birthplace in Gramercy Park.

However, if you want to take this trip of remembrance and appreciation up a notch, visit Madame Tussauds, and get a selfie with a version of your favorite leader! 

Chinese New Year Lunar Parade and Festival

When: February 25th

Where: Mott St from Canal St, onto East Broadway, up through Sara Roosevelt Park

It's the year of the dog! Get ready to experience streets of NYC chock-full of colorful floats, dragon dancers, singers and mouth-watering vendor foods during this annual celebration.  As a festive event celebrated by all New Yorkers of all heritages, the Lunar Parade draws massive crowds, so make sure to know your routes, and wear comfortable shoes!

For more tips on navigating the Big Apple in February, reach out to My NY Tours, and book a guided tour package that covers every turn of New York City!

I go to Paris, I go to London, I go to Rome, and I always say, "There's no place like New York. It's the most exciting city in the world now. That's the way it is. That's it." - Robert De Niro

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A Comprehensive Guide to Shopping In the Big Apple

One of the most rewarding gifts you can give yourself after ages of staying on the grind is a trip abroad to a place with plenty of shopping opportunities. And what better place to find the perfect mix of budget-buys and high-end shopping than the city of New York, a place famous for variety in every aspect of life!

We’ve put together a comprehensive guide to your shopping trip in the fashion capital of the US. Whether you are looking for the best bargain on kitchenware or a pair of those black Louboutins you’ve had your eyes set on, you will know where to go.

An Informed Shopper’s Breakdown of Neighborhoods in NYC

Shopping in New York is not dissimilar to exploring a gigantic shopping mall. Around the corner, tucked behind, located beside, there are stores after stores everywhere for every shopper, some which actually make it to city’s greatest landmarks!

Head to the subway, hail a cab, or take a walk. You’re headed to…

…For High-End Shopping

Fifth Avenue

If you’re seeking flagship stores, Fifth Avenue is your stop! Venture to one of the most recognized sections of Fifth Avenue, between 49th St and 59th St, where you will find the designers you’ve been hearing about back home, including Louis Vuitton, Prada, Gucci. These and many more stores attract New York’s elite to Fifth Avenue.

And if you’re not in the mood for splurging on stuff just yet, you can simply stroll through the lavish window displays of Barney’s, Saks Fifth Avenue and Bergdorf Goodman, which frequently draw crowds of tourists, particularly during winter season.

Large stores like Zara, H&M, Ann Taylor and Uniqlo are perfect for you to shop at without spending megabucks.

Madison Avenue

If you’re in the mood for someplace less crowded, this part of the Lower East Side will provide you with a quieter NYC shopping experience. Although of the shops along Madison Avenue are small, boutique-sized (but not cheap), in each you’ll find something truly one-of-a-kind!

Financial District

In the recent years the Financial District zone has become quite the treasure trove of high-end stores, such as Tiffany & Co. Near the 9/11 Memorial you will find the architecturally-profound Oculus, a shopping hub with over a hundred shops, including an Apple Store. Just west of the WTC is Brookfield Place, an urban mall with over two dozen high-end designer stores, including Michael Kors, Veneta, Bottega, and Burberry.

The Diamond District

West 47th St, between Fifth and Sixth Av is the popular Diamond District. It’s said that over 90% of the diamond trades in the US happen in this very neighborhood, which means that you can look forward to some amazing deals if you’re in the market for fine jewelry!

…For Mid-Range/Discounted Shopping

SoHo

Short for “South of Houston”, SoHo encompasses a unique blend of mid to low-end shops and designer stores that appeal to every tourist and local shopper. Look forward to exploring lots of boutique stores and drop by ‘sample sales’—these are pop-up stores offering attractive discounts on overproduced fashion.  

Stop at Broadway, and walk all down to Canal Street to get your fill of a memorable NYC walking adventure amongst local crowds, gorgeous cast-iron architecture—including the historic Haughwout Building—yogurt and snack shops, and of course, shopping establishments. Here you can shop at H&M, Victoria’s Secret, Coach and more.

Fun fact: SoHo was also Manhattan's first "Red Light" district, once with over 500 brothels and a "Gentleman's Guide" to the best houses of prostitution!

Times Square

A complete tour around the Times Square is not limited to Broadway shows, clubs and restaurants—you’ve some shopping to do as well. It’s also another great place for a family tour around the NYC, with its chocolate and souvenir gift shops, including the loved I *Heart* NYC outlets, and the largest Toys R’ Us branch in the country, complete with carnival rides inside the store!

Lower East Side

Over the years, artists and trendsetters have turned the Lower East Side from a once popular place for bargain buys to an interesting and hip district, where you can shop for avante garde goods, vintage-yet-edgy clothing, and even high-end designer good at 50-80% off (check out Gabay's Outlet).

Union Square

Enter one of the hottest shopping and eating zones in NYC, where you will find mega-shopping opportunities, starting with city’s very first Nordstrom Rack. Move on to T.J. Maxx to check out any amazing in-store deals.

And if you’re in the mood for a just-released fiction or a cookbook, head to the Strand Bookstore, where you will walk amongst bibliophiles from all around New York happily carrying their purchases in the store’s trademark folding tote bag.

Chelsea & West Village

Trying to figure out how you can buy art but not empty your pockets? Head to Chelsea, home to a whopping 350 art galleries, offering art for purchase at discounted rates! The West Village, in addition to cozy spaces for dining and drinking, also offers an array of great boutique stores.

…For Cheap Shopping

Canal Street

Named for being one of the city's only sources of fresh water back in 1800s, Canal Street today filled with always-affordable clothing, accessories, souvenirs and so much more! You’ll find knock-off versions of every designer items, so on display, others in the back which may have to ask specifically for. And if you’re one for negotiating prices, here you can cut down your spending. Remember, most stores are cash-only, so keep plenty of change on hand.

All in all, it’s a place that offers both gritty and glamorous, not an experience you want to miss out on!

Little Italy 

Looking for touristy items to but on a budget? When you don’t want to splurge over high-priced souvenirs, head to Little Italy, particularly Mulberry Street, where you will find funny tees, trinkets, toys, house ware and other items, all at cheap rates.

Chinatown

Packed full of winding lanes and lots of family-owned stores, Chinatown is your next stop for inexpensive shopping. These shops clothes, pottery and household items, lots of which appeal to tourists.

Reading this got you itching to swipe your card and hand out cash for every kind of purchase possible in the Big Apple? Book a unique tour in New York City with MyNYTours, including professionally guided trips to various shopping neighborhoods!

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Uncovering The Best New York Activities in March 2018

With March comes the transition from Winter to Spring, and a vast variety of events to uncover in the Big Apple!

If you’re visiting New York City and your trip falls within the month of March, we’ve got all the top events and activities for you to indulge in during your visit.

There’s St. Patrick’s Day; that is of course, the biggest and most festive celebrations in the month. While the St. Patrick’s Day Parade is a must for all those in NYC, there are a few other events you don’t want to overlook!

St Patrick's Day Parade (3/17)

Who doesn’t love a good parade? We know you do, and if you’re in New York in March, then you’re in luck! New Yorkers are pros at parades. St. Patrick’s Day falls on Saturday, 17th March this year, marked as the death of Ireland’s most celebrated patron saint, St. Patrick—the perfect opportunity for a full-blown parade, of course.

Shamrocks will be seen everywhere. NYC will be all decked out in green. EVERYONE is Irish this day. Amazing parties are abundant as are the many fun goings-on  which further enhance the day’s festivities.

The Parade begins at 11 am on 44th Street, and marches north along Fifth Avenue to 79th Street. The most famous and the largest of all of the Big Apple’s parades, the St. Patrick’s Day Parade is a huge and wonderful parade that is not to be missed!

Women’s History Month (3/1 to 3/31)

March is Women’s History Month, and you’ll be glad to know that New York City offers numerous ways to pay tribute to this fact!

The month of March is littered with various events celebrating women, and you can indulge in a few to show your support for all the brilliant female leaders, innovators, and artists out there! Check out a few women-centric events and activities below:

The Future is Female (3/8)

Spring Revolution Festival (3/2 to 3/11)

Yeah She Did: Stories About Women You Should Know (3/7)

Sample Sales

One of the amazing things about New York City is probably one you didn’t think to consider—and that’s sample sales! These open up a world of wonderfully steep discounts and top brand products at amazing prices which are discounted directly from top designer showrooms and designer goods manufacturers.

You can get everything from designer men and women’s clothes to beauty products and even kids’ apparel and accessories. To find out the where and when of March sample sales, stay informed with Sample Sally where you’ll be privy to the inside scoop on the most currently available sample sale dates and locations!

Macy's Flower Show (3/25 to 4/8)

Of course, we can’t forget to include one of the top attractions of March—the extraordinary annual Macy’s Flower Show! It takes place at Macy’s Herald Square at 151 W 34th Street, between the 6th and 7th Avenue.

This year’s show, aptly titled “Once Upon a Springtime”, will transform the Macy’s store at Herald Square, into an awe-inspiring display of fantastic blooming floral scenes! What a perfect way to welcome the Springtime!

Easter Parade

If you’re sticking around till the 1st of April, then don’t forget to take a part in the age old tradition of the Easter Parade! It marches up along Fifth Avenue, starting off at 49th Street near St. Patrick’s Cathedral and running north to 55th Street.

If you’re looking to explore more of New York City and want to take in the sights with the help of a local guide, then turn to My NY Tours! They provide some of the best, most unique tours in New York City, allowing visitors to gain knowledge and insider information on all the top local attractions while having fun, enjoyable touring experiences.

They currently provide three different public tour offerings which include “Central Park Secrets & Highlights”, “Secrets of the High Line”, and “9/11, Blue Sky, Black Day”, a tour of the 9/11 Memorial and Financial District.

You can also book your own custom-tailored private tour with them! Refer to their website’s FAQ for answers to many of your questions or concerns.

Call My NY Tours at 646 798 6676 to book your New York City tour today!

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Top Spots to Explore in Central Park, NYC!

Holding the title of being the first public urban landscaped park in the entirety of the United States, Central Park is a certifiable treasure trove of picturesque spots—home to meadows, lakes, wildlife, gardens, street performers, and countless events and activities.

This 843-acre park is one of the most popular and the most visited parks in the United States, while also being amongst the most filmed locations in the world!

This green wonderland has a lot to offer for both locals and tourists alike, no matter the season when visited. From basking in the beauty of nature to indulging in a little recreation, Central Park is a must-see location for any and all visitors to New York City!

While there is much to discover, here are a few Central Park spots you don’t want to miss out on during your trip to New York City.

Conservatory Water

If you’ve seen the movie Stuart Little, you already have an idea of the famous Conservatory Water! This cement pond offers a spot where kids and adults alike can indulge in some model sail boating, and even take in the view of the famous sculptures of Alice in Wonderland and Hans Christian Andersen located nearby. It is centered opposite to West 74th Street, near 5th Avenue.

Strawberry Fields

Fans of John Lennon will certainly not want to miss out on a visit to the Strawberry Fields in Central Park! Therein lies the Imagine Mosaic, which serves as the centerpiece of the tribute to the musician. Living just across the street from this particular part of Central Park, Lennon was a much-loved celebrity who embodied the lively, loving, and just a tad bit cynical spirit of the city.

The memorial in honor of the ex-Beatle is a 2.5 acre landscaped section, located between West 71st Street and West 74th Street—it can be easily accessed from the West 72nd Street entrance of Central Park.

Conservatory Garden

Get a much-needed respite from the hustle and bustle of the city in the Conservatory Garden, located at 5th Avenue, between 104th and 106th Street.

This six acre garden is accessible through the Vanderbilt Gate, and is home to a plethora of different plant species and indigenous flowers.

It is neatly divided into three different garden sections, labeled as the English Garden (South), Italian Garden (Central), and French Garden (North).  The perfect place for a pleasant, meandering stroll!

The Carousel

This 1871 vintage carousel is undeniably one of the most popular spots in Central Park, getting approximately 250, 000 riders a year. Located at the southern end of the park nearby to East 65th Street, this historic carousel is a particular hit with younger visitors!

Bethesda Terrace & Fountain

This is a stunning gathering place, essentially the only formal architectural setting in Central Park. The Bethesda Fountain sits in the center of the terrace, with the ‘Angel of the Waters’ sculpture looking out over the teeming public.

The terrace and fountain structure is located mid-park, on the north side of 72nd Street. The fountain is a truly iconic feature of Central Park, with the terrace serving as a popular gathering spot for musicians, performers, and visitors.

Central Park is home to many hidden gems and wondrous locations to explore! If you’re headed to New York City for a trip, then this is one attraction you don’t want to miss out on.

Get the full lowdown on all of Central Park’s ‘secrets’ with the help of My NY Tours, who offer their customers a Central Park Secrets & Highlights Tour.  During this 3 hour walking tour with a local and licensed guide, you’ll get to experience all the beauty and wonder of this amazing and massive park—at a great price!.

My NY Tours is your absolute best resource for informative, unique tours in New York City. Give them a call at 646 798 6676 to book your tour today!

[mynytours]

A Sugar Lover’s Guide to New York City

There’s no better way to get a “real, intimate taste” of New York City than checking out the local cuisine.

With over 45,000 eating and drinking establishments (and counting), the Big Apple is home to some of the most exotic eateries in the world, including Michelin-star restaurants, authentic delis and colorful food trucks that are as irresistible as they are budget-friendly.

If you’ve ever had the chance to visit, you may also know that NYC is a sugar-lover’s paradise, featuring some of the most sought-after bakeries, ice cream parlors, waffle houses and pastry shops in the world.

And if you haven’t, you’re literally in for a treat!

The Sweetest Spots in the City

No two desserts are created equal—and no one knows that better than the wildly creative and super talented pastry chefs in New York City.

If you’re visiting for the first time, you may be overwhelmed by the number of tempting options. (What can we say; we love a good macaroon!)

Make your way to the best dessert menu in town by checking out the City’s most loved and celebrated sweet treats. Here are some places that are sure to satisfy your sugary cravings:

Serendipity 3

Address: 225 East 60th Street, between 2nd and 3rd Avenues.

It’s easy to find good food in NYC; but finding an extensive dessert menu with delightfully unique sugary creations—that’s something only a handful of places can offer. And Serendipity 3 is definitely one of them.

Founded in 1954 by Stephen Bruce, this popular restaurant located on the Upper East Side carries a historic legacy as a hotspot for a once-unknown Andy Warhol and First Lady Jackie O. Drawing customers from around the world with its decadent sundaes and frozen desserts, it made the Guinness Book of World Records for the world’s most expensive dessert.

What makes the Frrrozen Haute Chocolate so luxurious that it comes at a hefty price tag of $25,000?

It’s made of 28 exotic blends of cocoa and 5 grams of—you guessed it—23-karat edible gold!

If you’re willing to splurge up to $1,000 on your sugar fill, try the Golden Opulence Sundae and give them a 48-hour notice. But if you’re looking for a more reasonably-priced indulgence, look no further than the good ol’ Frrrozen Hot Chocolate that’s bound to make your cold winter days warm and delicious.

ChikaLicious Dessert Bar

Address: 203 East 10th Street, between 2nd and 1st Avenues.

If you love dessert so much, you could have it for breakfast, lunch and dinner, a visit to ChikaLicious will be a dream-come-true!

Located in the heart of the East Village, this fabulous dessert bar was founded in 2003, and opens its doors to a small audience of 20, who get a chance to see their dessert prepared and plated.

With a prix fixe three-course tasting menu worth $18, you get an “Amuse”, your choice of dessert and Petite Fours. You can also take the experience to a whole new level with coffee, wine, tea and cheese pairing for an additional charge of $9.

Some of our personal favorites: the exquisite warm Chocolate Tarte with Pink Peppercorn Ice Cream and Red Wine Sauce, and the equally divine Caramel Panna Cotta with Blueberry Sorbet and Frosted Pecan!

This is a fabulous place to bring older kids, especially if you want to celebrate their departure from overly-sweet candy and refine their palate with a sophisticated fromage blanc cheesecake.

Baked by Melissa

Address: 7 East 14th Street.

You know a place makes one-of-a-kind cupcakes when it starts shipping nationwide.

Known for catering at birthdays and special events, Baked by Melissa isn’t your run-of-the-mill cupcake factory. It’s a passionate initiative that lets your cupcake obsession run wild!

Specializing in signature bite-sized treats, the cup cake shop offers an impressive selection of delectable flavors in cup cakes and macaroons, with gluten-free and nut-free options. If you’re taking a walking tour of the City, take a leisurely stroll to any of the 13 locations and buy a box of dozen. They’ll be gone before you know it!

Notable mentions: Chocolate Chip Pancake, Rice Crispy Treat, S’mores, Cookie Dough, Mint Chocolate Chip, Cinnamon and the fan-favorite Tie-Dye.

Dominique Ansel Bakery

Address: 189 Spring Street (between Sullivan and Thompson).

No dessert list is complete without classic French pastry. And Dominique Ansel hits all the right notes with his signature French-inspired cakes, tarts and éclairs.

With an innovative menu that changes every 6 to 8 weeks, award-winning pastry chef Dominique Ansel pulls out all the stops with delightful new creations like the milk and cookie shot, frozen s’mores, madeleine, yuzu praline tart, and the doughnut-croissant love-child, famously known as “The Cronut”.

Wondering what a French pastry version of a peanut butter cup would look and taste like?

Try the Paris-New York, a pâte à choux dough enriched with silky caramel mousse and chocolate decadence, accompanied by the most exquisite marshmallows with a rich mousse-like consistency. With fantastic new flavors to come out each month, this is one bakery that never ceases to amaze!

Beware: only 300 cronuts are made daily, and each person is allowed to purchase only 2. Early risers get a super sweet reward by eliminating up to an hour of waiting time.

The long queue may be a bit of a downer, but the mouth-watering whiff of fresh pastries and tart will make your wait that much sweeter!

Max Brenner Chocolate By the Bald Man

Address: 841, Broadway.

You know the demand for dessert is at an all-time high when a restaurant bases its entire menu on chocolate!  

That’s right, folks—we saved the best for last!

If a five-course meal centered on dessert is your ultimate fantasy, Max Brenner fulfills it through “a chocolate love story” with a very happy ending.

Hot chocolate served in warm, cozy “Hug Mugs”, milkshakes poured into whimsical “Alice cups”, there’s no end to the chocolate fantasy at Max Brenner.

If you’re in the mood for something heavy, be sure to try their signature offerings, including the dessert pizza with your choice of topping, or the ultimate dream: a build-your-own cake!

A delightfully sweet way to wrap up an all-day walking tour, Max Brenner is a wonderful, warm sanctuary for visitors with a sweet tooth!

My NY Tours, well-known for their fascinating and engaging walking tours, has used Max Brenner’s during it’s seasonal Holiday Lights Extravaganza tours, providing patrons with an inclusive hot beverage and a choice of decadent dessert.

For more tours in the Big Apple and travel tips, book an in-depth tour package and make your trip to NYC as easy as pie!

[mynytours]

What to Expect from a Walking Tour in NYC

                           Photo Credit: CC-BY-SA-3.0/Matt H. Wade

Shows like Sex and the City may tempt you to shop at Saks Fifth Avenue in your favorite stilettos. But when you get the chance to actually visit NYC and walk amidst scores of pedestrians in the busiest parts of Manhattan, you may instantly regret choosing your flashy Jimmy Choos over your most comfortable pair of Converse.

Exploring a new town or city on foot is an experience unlike any other—but only if you’re armed with comfort and confidence.

Luckily, one of the great things about visiting the Big Apple is that you don’t need a car to navigate the City. With one of the largest and most reliable public transportation systems in the world, taking a walking tour in NYC is one of the best decisions you can make as a tourist!

If you’ve never taken a unique guided tour completely on foot, New York City is a great place to start! Here are just a few of the many things you’ll discover on a well-planned walking tour with a licensed guide:

A Warm Welcome

When you’re visiting a new place for the first time, being greeted and shown around by a friendly face makes a significant difference to your entire stay.

After booking a tour package, your tour guide generally remains in touch via phone or email to customize your itinerary and make necessary arrangements. Once you’ve picked your preferred time slot for a tour package of your choice, the guide will suggest an easily accessible meeting-point, with suggestions on what to bring and what to leave behind.

This means eliminating the possibility of wrong turns, awkward conversations with strangers on the street, and of course, getting stranded in the middle of nowhere.

At the end of the day, your correspondence with a personable and entertaining tour guide allows you to discover a side of NYC rarely seen by travelers as you forge new friendships, share some laughs, and make your entire trip more lively and interactive as you walk, eat and sightsee together.

Excellent Itinerary Planning

With more than 8.5 million New Yorkers inhabiting NYC, you’re likely to be surrounded by big crowds wherever you go—especially if you visit during peak season. This means that no amount of independent research can measure up to the kind of planning and insight that a licensed tour guide can offer. This is particularly helpful if you wish to make detours, or experience unexpected setbacks on your journey.

Even if you have a big appetite for adventure, it can be physically and mentally exhausting to explore a city as big as New York all alone, and being left at the mercy of an outdated guidebook. By burying your face in a giant map, and constantly bumping into busy New Yorkers, you may find yourself in an unfamiliar neighborhood, miles from your hotel or B&B, and pay criminally high rates for a painfully long cab ride.

Walking tours capitalize on public transportation, primarily the subway. Not only does this give you a unique opportunity to experience the City like a native New Yorker, but discover exciting new places, usually hidden in plain sight!

An Intimate History of the City

Besides being a cost-effective way of navigating a new place, walking tours deliver a storytelling approach to travel and tourism, where each monument, landmark, building, and avenue has a rich history best narrated by someone who personally grew up there.

Sure, if you’re tempted to grab a map and take to the streets on your own, you may catch major tourist attractions that are hard to miss. But without placing them in a cultural context, it’ll be a lot like flipping through the pages of a book you never really read nor fully understood.

There’s nothing more tragic than visiting some of New York’s biggest attractions, say, Central Park, and leaving without discovering all of its wonderful little secrets.

A licensed tour guide literally walks you through each destination at a relaxed pace, so you have enough time to immerse in the environment, soak up some fascinating facts, and take enviable photographs that are sure to get plenty of “likes” and comments on social media.

Unlike conventional bus tours, walking tours also add a more human dimension to your tour by giving you a chance to get on your feet, and get up close and personal with the subject.

This is incredibly evident during an emotionally-charged tour of the 9/11 Memorial, as you walk around the former Ground Zero site and watch your tour guide narrate the tragic event, accompanied by personal anecdotes and photos.

Hidden Gems (Eateries, Bars, Activities)

All that walking can make you hungry real fast; and no one likes to be kept waiting under the sun! Imagine all the time and frustration you’ll save just by knowing exactly where to find the most authentic pasta in Little Italy—and how to get there fast!

Not only will your tour guide give you a riveting background of fascinating neighborhoods like Chinatown and SoHo, they will make valuable recommendations to help you eat and shop on a budget! This is incredibly important if you’re looking for unique restaurants, cafes, cocktail lounges and bars that are simply hard to find on your own devices.

As a native New Yorker, your guide will not only know about some of the best kept secrets in the City, but help you narrow down your choices so you don’t end up wasting your time and money on an overrated establishment that leaves much to be desired.

With more and more restaurants opening throughout the Big Apple, you have a much better chance of finding something truly authentic (or simply fun and quirky) with the help of someone who knows the City inside-out.

An Experience You’ll Never Forget!

Ultimately, visiting New York City is on everyone’s bucket list for a reason.

Besides being The City That Never Sleeps, it is also home to some of the most celebrated museums, financial centers, parks, theaters, artists and intellectuals of our time.

Don’t get lost in the crowd and make your stay fun and stress-free by booking with a professional tour company.

My NY Tours offers comprehensive, entertaining and engaging walking tours in the bustling metropolis all year round. Whether you’re interested in discovering the secrets of the High Line, or taking a custom private tour in the Big Apple, My NY Tours can make it happen!

For more information, book a walking tour and experience NYC like a true New Yorker!

[mynytours]

The Ultimate Bar Bucket List: Hunting New York City’s Best Cocktail Establishments and Rooftop Lounges

No matter what you think you know about New York City, it’s always full of surprises.

From stunning skyscrapers and historic buildings to a bustling financial district and dazzling Broadway scene, New York City offers a full spectrum of eateries, lounges and activities whether it’s for business or pleasure, with new and exciting places to explore with every visit.

While most visitors are aware of popular tourist attractions like Times Square and Central Park, few get an opportunity to explore some of the City’s coolest and lesser-known places that are best-known, by locals.

That’s right, folks. Beyond the glitz and glamour of Manhattan lies a world of hidden gems just waiting to be discovered. We’re talking about the most loved cocktail lounges in the City, many featuring breathtaking views and some of the most unique and tasty cocktails that you’ll ever try!

We got a chance to speak with My NY Tours, who shared 9 of the most unusual, fun and upscale bars in the city!

1. PDT (Please Don’t Tell)

Located on 113 St. Marks Place, between 1st Avenue and Avenue A, PDT is a cozy and unique cocktail lounge, known for two things: innovative cocktails (think: bacon-infused bourbons), and a small, but irresistible menu of snacks (including four types of deep-fried hot dogs).

As an East Village mainstay that’s designed to look like a classic NYC speakeasy, PDT is accessible through—get this—a vintage telephone booth that is ONLY accessible through Crif’s Dogs, the adjoining hot-dog joint (which, by the way, has super tasty hot dogs with all kinds of crazy toppings). So, if you’re wondering why you’ve never heard of this establishment before, #NowYouKnow.

2. Beetle House

Don’t let its size fool you!

If you are that one person who is in the Halloween mood every day of the year, then the Beetle House is just the place for you! Inspired by works of Tim Burton, the ambience is all about BeetleJuice. There’s even a BeetleJuice character who weaves his way through the tight spaces of this cool this bar/restaurant, to entertain Guests. Beetle House is a no-miss stop for a unique New York bar experience and some tasty dining, as well. Sip on a delicious “The 9 Martini” and try their signature sweet chipotle for a great meal.

Tip: Reservations are highly recommended as the place is cozy, quite tiny and always crowded.

3. Death and Co.

If you’re in the mood for something a tad more upscale, pay a visit to one of the most influential bars in New York City, underscored by black granite tables and crystal chandeliers.

The classic décor isn’t the only thing that makes this establishment rather fancy for a traditional speakeasy. Owners made a masterstroke move by hiring bartenders “who knew way more” than they did. So, if you’re anticipating a drink you’ve never had before, this is the place to order it!

We’re not kidding; this team of bartenders is so talented, it once compelled the genius behind PDT, Jim Meehan, to compare them to the New York Yankees. #TrueStory

4. Mother Of Pearl

This place brings you all the joys of a cool Hawaiian island in the dead of winter with its exotic Tiki-themed bar. Located in the Lower East Side, Mother of Pearl offers a fantastic range of tiki cocktails—including their unique, albeit a bit unsettling Shark-Eye cocktail—along with a tasty menu of beautifully presented lighter fare to titillate your taste buds. Definitely worth a stop!

5. Rudy's Bar And Grill

Want to experience the charm of a packed New York bar with dirt-cheap beer, top shelf cocktails, a lively atmosphere and free hot dogs all night long? Say no more!

A former speakeasy, Rudy’s Bar and Grill is a classic NY “upscale” dive bar, welcoming a diverse population, from “suits” boasting of their day's successes to, neighborhood locals and the fortunate patron who just stumbled upon the place by happy accident.

This is undoubtedly, one of the cheapest, hottest, most fun places in town! Everyone in the know hangs at Rudy’s. With cheap top-shelf liquor, plenty of on-tap and bottled beer options, and those absolutely free fresh grilled hotdogs, what’s not to love? Your visit to Rudy's during this winter season promises to be filled with warmth, cheer, and laughter alongside the many fun and colorful regulars. Oh, and don’t be surprised if you spot a familiar face from Tinsel Town ‘cause celebrities love it, too!

6. 230 Fifth Rooftop Bar

Two words: Heated Igloos.

Making winter all the more fun for its visitors, 230 Fifth is New York’s largest rooftop bar that offers a gorgeous view of the city’s skyscrapers and historic landmarks, particularly the Empire State Building.

The bar consists of an indoor penthouse and outdoor rooftop, giving you the opportunity to move around as you please and stay snug as a bug in winter. But more to the point, it has beautiful heated igloos with a 12-person capacity.

Combine this creative décor concept with a great drinks menu, and you have your winter season NY bar journey wrapped up in an unforgettable experience.

230 Fifth also provides guests with comfy red bathrobes to wear over clothes to stay toasty-warm. Hands down, the best and largest rooftop bar you will find in New York City—and NO cover charge!

7. Raines Law Room

If your trip to New York is a romantic getaway, then you and your significant other will love the subdued and classy vibe of the Raines Law Room. An upscale, speakeasy-style lounge, the place prompts dressy attire from its visitors. Look forward to indulging in amazing cocktails on your visit here!

8. Le Bain (The Standard Hotel)

When visiting New York City, you do look forward to that fortunate moment when you just might catch a glimpse of a favorite celebrity? Well, a visit to Le Bain might just give you that golden opportunity!

Providing amazing views of the beautiful High Line “Park-in-the-Sky” that it straddles, along with mesmerizing City views, this place plays host to a sophisticated crowd. Look forward to enjoying state-of-the-art sound and a great drinks menu.

Tip:  Arrive early (8pm or so) for best chance of admittance. The bar has a tougher "Door Policy" than most places so to increase your chances for entry do remember to “dress to impress”! Oh, and hey… don’t forget your swim suit.

9. Rolf's Bar & Restaurant

For those who of you who cannot get enough of Christmas, the festive interior of this place will draw you in like bees to honey! Rolf’s Bar & Restaurant is completely decked out in holiday décor; the restaurant actually spends roughly $60K annually on its decorations!

While the drink menu is a bit on the pricier end, Rolf’s has an elegantly beautiful interior, with a quieter, more reserved crowd.

For more tips and advice on navigating the Big Apple, get in touch with My NY Tours, and book an in-depth tour package that covers every nook and cranny of the city!

[mynytours]

Holiday Lights Extravaganza: Celebrating a New York Christmas

As one of the most popular holiday destinations in the world, New York City is home to some of the biggest tourist attractions; most open 365 days a year.

Since the City sees the peak of tourist traffic in warmer months, most visitors only get to see one side of New York, shaped exclusively by summer.

NYC has a BIG personality that you can’t fully appreciate by visiting only one season. Each of New York’s four seasons has something wonderful and beautiful to offer the visitor. As the colder weather sets in, New York City embraces its year’s end holidays with over-the-top holiday decorations and lights to celebrate the joyous holiday season in a way that is so uniquely New York! In fact, there’s no Christmas on earth like a New York Christmas!  

As more and more people learn of this, tourists the world over, are planning their vacation getaways to New York City, during the holiday season—anxious to be awed by the razzle-dazzle of brilliant holiday lights and spectacular window displays!

Christmas in the Big Apple

If Times Square is the only place you associate with lights, you’re going to see a very different New York in winter. Here are some sights for sore eyes, bound to boost your holiday spirit! The Big Apple does EVERYTHING in a really big way… even Christmas ornaments. Check these out!

Annual Christmas Tree At 30 Rockefeller Center

This is no ordinary Christmas tree; it’s a 60 to 100-foot Norway Spruce adorned with 30,000+ LED lights and is topped with a 550 lb., 9.5 ft. wide Swarovski crystal star that glistens with 25,000 crystals and 1 million facets!

Broadcast live on NBC, the annual tree lightning is a major celebration in New York City that attracts tens of thousands! Many wonderful singers entertain the crowds singing holiday songs. And of course, no celebration would be complete without performances of the Radio City Music Hall Rockettes; a chorus line of synchronized, high-kicking beauties who wow the crowds with their high-kicking dance routine.  

The evening climax comes when the Mayor of the City of New York throws the light switch that illuminates the tree and makes the welcoming of Christmas, official! To be a spectator at this party-to-beat-all-parties is a feeling too magical for words!

Saks Fifth Avenue's Dazzling Holiday Lights Show

For many of us, Christmas is synonymous with holiday shopping. And if you’re interested in shopping while immersing in the festivities of the season, Saks Fifth Avenue is where you want to be!

With giant LED light projections playing every few minutes in the 12 windows of the 10-story department store, you can experience the best of both worlds on your Christmas shopping spree.

As you can see, winter in New York City is all about going BIG. Expect warm greetings, generous hosts, and a Christmas celebration you’ll never forget!

Dyker Heights Holiday Lights

Beautiful as it may be during holidays, Manhattan is just one of the five boroughs that make up New York City and it certainly doesn’t corner the market on amazing holiday light displays.

Each year, Brooklynites, in the south Brooklyn area known as Dyker Heights, channel their holiday spirit and deck their homes (many of which are mansions), with over-the-top decorations and lights that are on par with the holiday extravagance of Manhattan’s famous Fifth Avenue!

Homeowners, in a region that spans approximately 12 extremely decorated blocks, spend an estimated $10K+ to have their homes professionally decorated, then pay thousands more to illuminate them throughout the holiday season.

Consequentially, this neighborhood is quite possibly the local power company’s favorite… especially at Christmastime!

In recent years, the existence of this once relatively unknown winter wonderland enclave has been revealed. Today, buses, packed with holiday revelers and tourists from every corner of the world make their way to Dyker Heights Brooklyn to delight in the holiday magic of this lovely neighborhood.  

Although bus transportation is utilized to transport large numbers of tourists to and from this area, visits to this neighborhood are possible, and encouraged via use of public MTA subway/bus transportation.

When dressed appropriately for local weather conditions and wearing warm and comfortable foot attire, the area is a DEFINITE “must-see” that you will love!

Make your winter holidays memorable by booking a Holiday Lights Extravaganza Tour with My NY Tours, and let a local tour guide show you the best of NYC!