Explore NYC: Manhattan Edition

by Haley Davidson

Explore NYC: Manhattan Edition

Sometimes the routine of work, dinner, Netflix, and sleep can get exhausting.

In a new city where you may not know many people and are likely in a high pressure job, it can be tempting to stay home on the weekends and catch up on Game of Thrones.

But don’t forget: you’re spending the whole summer in New York City, and you don’t want to miss the chance to get out and explore. From Harlem to the Financial District, Manhattan is home to incredible neighborhoods, coffee shops, and beautiful spaces you won’t want to miss.

  1. Harlem

Take the A/C or 1/2/3 up to anywhere between 110 St. and 135 St. and you’ll find yourself in a neighborhood unlike any other. With its soul food and wide open spaces, Harlem is a sharp contrast to the crowds and flashing lights of Midtown.

What to do:

  1. Enjoy Harlem’s best soul food at Sylvia’s Restaurant 
  2. Catch (or try out at!) Amateur Night at Apollo Theater 
  3. Take a swim or soak up the sun at Marcus Garvey Park 

 

  1. Central Park

Central Park seems like an obvious place to visit, but sometimes it can feel out-of-the-way from your Midtown internship or FiDi apartment. However, the park is just a few stops north of the Financial District and is well worth visiting time and time again.

What to do:

  1. Enjoy breathtaking views at The Lake
  2. Have a picnic or enjoy reading a good book at Sheep’s Meadow
  3. Take in a breathtaking view of the park from Belvedere Castle

 

  1. Upper West Side

The Upper West Side is a mostly residential area marked by the leafy trees of Central Park and cultural landmarks like the Lincoln Center for Performing Arts and the American Museum of Natural History. You can also find some of the best eats in Manhattan along Amsterdam Avenue and Broadway. Hop on the 1/2/3 train at Clark St. or in the FiDi and get off anywhere from 59th to 110th streets to explore this homey neighborhood.

What to do:

  1. See a show at the Lincoln Center for Performing Arts
  2. Eat brunch at Sarabeth’s on Amsterdam Avenue
  3. Satisfy your sweet tooth at Momofuku Milk Bar on Columbus Avenue

 

  1. TriBeCa

TriBeCa is the perfect place for a night out, especially since this formerly industrial, now celebrity-studded neighborhood is just a 5 minute train ride from Wall St. Whether you want great food, great drinks, or a place to relax and play some volleyball, you won’t want to miss exploring TriBeCa this summer. Hop on the 2/ 3 at Wall St. or the 1 at Rector St. and get off at Chambers or Canal to enjoy this neighborhood.

What to do:

  1. Enjoy a night out at Black Tap for craft burgers, beer, and incredible milkshakes
  2. Relax after work at the Brandy Library for eclectic small plates and unique drinks
  3. Spend a sunny Saturday at Hudson River Park’s Pier 25 playing volleyball, mini-golf, football, or just getting a tan