November/December 2024
air, the cacophony of the streets. The perfect antidote is the High Line, a disused elevated railway line, now a greenway running north-south for twenty blocks,
9/11,
www.nitravelnews.com never clearer a
definitive slice of urban renewal. I spent half a morning strolling its boardwalk,
plant-bedecked wonderland,
a a
retreat. There on the High Line above the burly of the streets near Chelsea market, sound transforms to the whisper of
leaves and tall swaying grasses, the lilt of birdsong. Your eyes take over, enjoying the sculpture, the views of the Hudson, the Empire State building. Near the
than at that moment, the surrounding skyscrapers pulled towards the vapour of New York’s darkening fateful sky. Gaze up and reflect, absorb the rush of cascading water .Ground Zero’s signature as it plunges to the reflecting
pools
below. You will be transported.
My homeward journey that night on the Staten Island ferry stays with me still—Manhattan, ghostly,
by lights,
pinpricked a great
metropolis somehow afloat on its own refection beneath the spangled starry, sky. Viewed from the stern of a simple ferry, nearing the floodlit Statue of Liberty, the passengers seemed to sense there was nowhere better on Planet Earth they could possibly be.
On the open deck they raised their cameras as if in homage to the moment, facing backwards, click, a selfie. A great celebrity shot. Just themselves in the ultimate pic with that icon, so good they named it twice: New York, New York.
NEW York City is world-renowned, and while Manhattan is often the focus, the city’s other boroughs – Brooklyn, Queens, The Bronx, and Staten Island – offer a wealth of attractions and activities that are equally engaging and unique. Here’s a guide to the top five things to do in New York outside of Manhattan, each offering a taste of the city’s diverse culture and vibrant local life.
Explore Brooklyn’s Williamsburg and DUMBO
Brooklyn is a hub of creativity and style, and two of its neighbourhoods, Williamsburg and DUMBO, visits.
are must-
southernmost (14th street) exit, I lunched on the roof of Whitney Gallery, worth the cost just to bask and relax, to plan my next jaunt—to St Patrick’s Cathedral, a gothic marvel on Fifth Avenue, then a stroll over Brooklyn Bridge But the sight I most relish across the stretch of my ten day trip was by far the Cityscape viewed by night. Here’s the plan: Visit Ground Zero. Wait until dusk, when
crowds have dispersed and everything sharpens-the names inscribed on the vast memorial to the victims of the horror of
Williamsburg has transformed from a gritty industrial area to one of the trendiest spots in New York. Known for its hipster vibe, the area is packed with chic boutiques, trendy cafes, and lively bars. On weekends, the Smorgasburg food market is a highlight, where you can sample a variety of delicious foods from local vendors while enjoying the view of the Manhattan skyline across the river. The street art scene is also worth exploring, with vibrant murals adding colour to the neighbourhood. Short for “Down Under the
Manhattan Overpass,” Bridge DUMBO
offers stunning views of the Manhattan skyline and the Brooklyn Bridge. The cobblestone streets and converted warehouses give it a unique charm.
Top 5 Things to Do in New York Outside of Manhattan
This expansive park is a legacy of the 1964 World’s Fair and offers numerous attractions. You can visit the iconic Unisphere, a giant globe structure, or take a leisurely boat ride on Meadow Lake. The park is also home to the New York Hall of Science, ideal for families with interactive exhibits and a mini-golf course. For sports fans, the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center hosts the US Open every summer. Yankee
Stadium and The New York
Botanical Garden Yankee Stadium, in The Bronx, is a must- visit for sports enthusiasts. Home to the New York Yankees, one of the most storied franchises in Major League Baseball, the stadium offers an electrifying atmosphere during games. Even if you’re not a baseball fan, the stadium offers tours that provide a fascinating glimpse into its history and the legends who have played there. The surrounding area, known as Concourse, is lively with numerous sports bars and eateries where fans gather before and after games. The New York Botanical Garden is a verdant oasis featuring over one million living plants. The 250-acre site includes a stunning Victorian-style glasshouse, the Enid A. Haupt Conservatory, and beautifully curated gardens such as the Rose Garden and the Rock Garden. The Garden also hosts seasonal exhibitions and special events, making it a delightful visit throughout the year.
Discover Staten Island’s Snug Harbor Cultural Center & Botanical Garden Staten Island offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.
This 83-acre site was once a home for retired sailors but has been transformed into a remarkable cultural centre.
Snug Harbor
features beautiful botanical gardens, including a serene Chinese Scholar’s Garden and the Connie Gretz Secret
Garden. The cultural centre also includes art galleries, a theatre, and the Staten Island Children’s Museum. The mix of nature, art, and history provides a relaxing yet enriching experience. Enjoy the Beaches and Breweries in Rockaway, Queens
For a more laid-back day, head to the Rockaways in Queens. Rockaway Beach is the perfect spot for sunbathing,
Brooklyn
Bridge Park is a great place to relax, with its spacious lawns, playgrounds,
and riverside paths.
The nearby Time Out Market, featuring a curated selection of some of New York’s best eateries, is perfect for a culinary adventure. Visit the Queens Museum and Flushing Meadows-Corona Park Queens is the most ethnically diverse urban area in the world, and its cultural richness is evident everywhere. Located in Flushing Meadows-Corona Park, the Queens Museum is known for its impressive collection of contemporary art and the famous Panorama of the City of New York, a detailed scale model of the entire city. The museum often hosts exhibitions and events that reflect the diverse cultures of Queens.
and surfing. The boardwalk stretches for miles, offering a great place for a leisurely stroll or a bike ride. Numerous food stands and beach bars add to the fun, with delicious seafood and refreshing drinks available. The area has a lively, friendly
vibe, making it a favourite among locals and visitors alike.
Rockaway is also home to several craft breweries where you can sample locally brewed beers.
Rockaway Brewing Company and other local brewers offer tasting rooms and tours, providing a relaxing end to a beach day.
Exploring beyond Manhattan opens up a world of experiences that showcase the true diversity and vibrancy of New York City. Whether you’re into art, nature, food, or simply soaking up local culture, the boroughs of Brooklyn, Queens, The Bronx, and Staten Island have something special to offer. So next time you’re in the Big Apple, take a trip off the beaten path and discover these fantastic destinations.
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swimming,
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