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Tourism Tuesday Featuring Times Square

Although there are many interesting things to see in New York, New York, one attraction stands far above the competition. Whether you want to see the ball drop on New Year’s Eve, catch the latest rendition of the Phantom of the Opera, or are just looking for the perfect pair of jeans, you can find what you are looking for in Times Square. It is at the center of all the action in New York City.  No other New York attraction can compete with its celestial energy.

Times Square is the soul of New York and is a vibrant and life-filled intersection where everything and every culture collide. New York’s Times Square is a sprawling junction, a bustling intersection that is filled with tons of people and a variety of things to experience, but one of the most exciting things to do there, is people watch. One quick glance around tells the exciting nature of what it means to be American. Nothing is bland in Times Square and there is always plenty to see. All sorts of unique cultures merge and mingle in harmony. Times Square is a mecca for tourists because no matter what culture you’re from, you will find something to relate to. You will also find something that will astound you, and the funny thing is, sometimes both things will be side by side. Go figure!

Tourists visit Times Square because it is home to many American icons including Broadway, newspapers, and famous television shows. It is also known world-wide for its plethora of food. When it comes to food, Times Square is really versatile. No matter what your tastes lean towards, there is a restaurant, food truck or food cart that will please your taste buds, as well as accommodate your wallet. Whether you’re a sophisticated critic that only deigns to eat at four star palaces or a blue collar brawler looking for the perfect slice of pizza, Times Square has what you need. Everything is more extravagant in Times Square including an Applebee’s franchise, which has a supersized location.

Times Square is also an excellent location to go shopping. There is no sales tax in New York City and travelers can take full advantage. Many superstores have their foundations in Times Square. Two prime examples are MAC makeup and the famous Department store Macy’s. Since New York is one of the fashion capitals of the world, tourists flock to get their shop on. No matter what you are looking for it can be found in Times Square. Each day millions flock to this world famous section of the Big Apple. Take advantage and look important in front of millions. Travel in style, you can even take a NY prom limo to your Times Square destination.

By Melissa Cooke

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Flash Forward Friday (March 8, 2013- March 14, 2013)

Friday March 8, 2012

Armory Arts Week 

Ticket Prices:  General Admission: $30, Students:  $10, Groups of 10 and over: $14, 4 Day Show: $60 and The Armory Show Pass: $40

Armory Arts Week welcomes visitors from around the world.  The Show partners with New York City and Company to create and hand out more than 40,000 maps that have schedules of the events.  These maps are available at certain venues and tourist kiosks.  The Armory Arts Week is a celebration of the arts communities.  They showcase a specific neighborhood arts scene every night combined with specific events.  Past events have included art tours, artist discussions, parties and museum specials. http://www.armoryartsweek.com/armoryarts/index.cfm/home/

Saturday March 8, 2013

Sesame Street Live:  Elmo’s Healthy Heroes

Ticket Prices: $30

Who doesn’t love Elmo?  At any age, you just don’t outgrow Sesame Street.  Sesame Street Live: Elmo’s Healthy Heroes is about the tale of Super Grover not being so cool anymore.  He has suddenly lost his coolness.  So now Sesame Street needs a new super hero.  But just who will come to the rescue.  Have no fear because Elmo and his team of Healthy Heroes save the day.  Elmo and the team do a great job of exploring fitness, nutrition, sleep, energy and hygiene. http://jennaglatzer.blogspot.com/2010/09/review-elmos-healthy-heroes.html

Sunday March 10, 2013

New York Rangers VS. Edmonton Oilers

Tickets:  $85

MadisonSquareGarden is the place to be on Sunday to watch the New York Rangers wreck havoc on the Edmonton Oilers.  For 85 seasons, The New York Rangers have been a fan favorite in the history of the sport.  They have played MadisonSquareGarden which is the World’s Most Famous Arena.  They have built their reputation upon passion, tradition and pride. http://rangers.nhl.com/

Monday March 11, 2013

Shout Out Louds

Ticket Prices:  Starting at $34

Shout Out Louds are an indie pop band from Sweden.  They are playing Monday at the Music Hall of Williamsburg.  The music hall is located in Brooklyn at 66 North 6th Street.  Some of their singles include “Shut Your Eyes’ “Walls” and “Illusions.”  They are performing one night only at 8:00 PM and this is a band you don’t want to miss. http://www.shoutoutlouds.com/indexgamla.html

Tuesday, March 12, 2013

The Importance Of Tying Your Own Shoes

Tickets:  Free

The Importance of Tying Your Own Shoes is being held at the New York Public Library at the Mid-Manhattan Branch on 455 Fifth Avenue at 42nd Street.  It is presented by the ReelAbilities NY Disabilities Film Festival.  The film centers on a man who is completely self-centered.  He gets a job at a theater group for disabled people.  This was just a paycheck for the man until he discovers a life-changing lesson. http://www.sfinternational.se/film/the-importance-of-tying-your-own-shoes

Wednesday March 13, 2013

Metropolitan Opera:  Don Carlo

Ticket Prices:  Start at $32

Don Carlos can be seen at the Metropolitan Opera at Lincoln Center.  Don Carlos is a five act grand opera, and at its full length, is comprised of four hours of music. It is considered Verdi’s longest opera.  The storyline is about the life of the Prince of Asturias, Carlos and tells the conflicts that he deals with in his life.

Thursday March 14, 2013 

Unwind at Symphony Space, Free Music Thursday

Tickets:  Free

Symphony Space is located at 2537 Broadway.  Free music Thursday is offered every Thursday with no cover charge.  http://www.unwinednyc.com/

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Tourism Tuesday Featuring New York City High Line

The New York City High Line is a one mile long city park which was built on an elevated section of the New York Central Railroad.  It is located on the western side of Manhattan.  The former railroad tracks have been converted into a beautifully redesigned aerial greenway.  The park goes from Gansevoort Street, through Chelsea, by way of 30th Street and onto the West Side Yard, close to the Jacob Javitz Convention Center.  Gansevoort Street is located just three blocks from West 14th Street, also known as the Meatpacking District.

This stunning and newly constructed park was designed by the architectural firm of James Corner Field Operations and architects Diller Scofidio and Renfro.  The designing of the plants was the responsibility of Piet Oudolf from the Netherlands.  Backers of the HighLinePark projects include Diane von Furstenberg along with her husband and children and hotel developer, Andre Balazs.

There are nine entrances into the park and four of those entrances are handicap accessible.  The park is open everyday of the week from 7:30 in the morning until 11:00 in the evening.  There are rules associated with the park, like everything else in life.  Most of the rules are pretty common sense like no walking on the plants, no bikes, no drinking and no littering.

The New York City High Line has attracted a lot in the pop culture scene.  In the 2007 smash hit “I Am Legend,” some of the scenes in the movie were filmed below the High Line as well as in the Meatpacking District.  In 2012, there was an episode of The Simpsons called “Moonshine River” where the family takes a trip to New York City.  Bart and an old girlfriend had taken an outing on the High Line.

The High Line features food vendors who sell products that are good to eat and good for the land as well.  As of 2012, there were nine vendors selling their food on the High Line.  Bark, for example, sells American classics that are created from ingredients that are not only local, but are of the highest quality.  Their signature Bark Burger is made from organic beef and seasonal vegetables, sure to be a delicious bite.  L’Arte Del Gelato, also in the park, was created almost a decade ago and makes gelati and sorbetti with first class ingredients.  They use milk that comes from Battenkill Valley Creamery in Salem, New York.  Melt Bakery sells delicious ice cream sandwiches, also made from local ingredients.  Their signature “Lovelet” sandwich is created from red velvet cakes with cream cheese ice cream, not friendly in calories, but very friendly in taste.

The spring and summer months will undoubtedly bring thousands of city residents and tourists to the High Line. Will you be one of them?

By Deana Clark

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(FlashForward Friday) Mar 1, 2013 – Mar 7, 2013

Friday, March 1st, 2013

Bodies The Exhibition

Ticket Prices: Adult: $26.50; Senior (Over 60): $22.50; Child (4-12): $20.50; Child (0-3): Free

When trying to plan an educational family day while visiting New York, how about visiting the Bodies The Exhibition at South Street Seaport? The exhibit shows the complex systems of organs and tissues throughout our bodies and it gives the young and old a fascinating look into our bodies. This exhibit is a way of showing people human organs and tissues that only medical professionals have access to normally. Come out and enjoy this fun, creative, yet educational experience for the entire family!

The South Street Seaport is located in the historic area of the New York City borough of Manhattan. The location of the Seaport features some of the oldest architecture and also is the largest amount of restored early 19th century commercial buildings in the city. It was founded in 1967. www.bodiestheexhibition.com/newyork/

Saturday, March 2nd, 2013

Louis C.K.

Ticket Prices: From $97.00

If you want to feel like a rock star attending a show, ride in a new york prom limo. Louis C.K., the creator, star, producer, writer, director of the FX comedy series Louie, is coming to New York City Center for one night only! He is performing live to promote the release of his latest comedy film, Hilarious (2011). Don’t miss out on this one night event!

The location of this comedy event is the New York City Center which is located at 131 W. 55th between 6th and 7th Avenues in Manhattan, New York City. The theatre was built in 1923, and houses 2,753 seats on the main stage. This theatre is known as the performing home for several major dance companies as well as the Encores! www.louiscktour.com

Sunday, March 3rd, 2013

NY Knicks vs. Miami Heat

Ticket Prices: Start at $237.00

Are you ready for some basketball? If you’re a basketball fan, visiting Madison Square Garden would be a top historical stadium to visit. The game is at 1:00 PM. Come watch these two teams duel it out at the Garden. Labron James is coming to town!

Madison Square Garden is located between Seventh and Eighth Avenues from 31st to 33nd streets. This arena sits on top of Pennsylvania Station and is used for professional basketball, ice hockey, boxing, concerts, ice shows, circuses and more. An interesting fact is that Madison Square Garden is ranked as one of the most expensive stadium venues ever built.   www.newyorkknicks.ticketsnow.com

Monday, March 4th, 2013

Fossil Halls

Ticket Prices: Adults: $18.99; Children (2-12): $10.50; Senior/Student: $14.50; Free for Members

Another great exhibit that is both educational and fun is the Fossil Halls Exhibit at the American Museum of Natural History. The exhibit is considered one of the premier attractions in New York City. Fossil Halls is home to nearly one million specimens, which is the world’s largest collection of vertebrate fossils. This exhibit is a permanent exhibit, so it will be there to visit for years and generations to come!

The American Museum of Natural History is one of the largest museums in the world. Located on the upper West Side of Manhattan in New York City, it Is home to over 130 million specimen as well as exhibition halls, research laboratories, and its renowned library.   www.amnh.org/exhibitions/permanent-exhibitions/fossil-halls

Tuesday, March 5th, 2013

Harry Potter: The Exhibition

Ticket Prices: Varies by event

Harry Potter is coming to town! Come one come all to the event you have been waiting for, the Harry Potter Exhibition! In this exhibit, you get to experience Harry Potter films to the fullest by walking through dramatic displays inspired by the films’ sets. This exhibit is sure to impress Harry Potter fans of all generations.

The Discovery Times Square Exposition, located at 22 West 44th Street in New York City specializes in traveling exhibitions. The building, opened June 24, 2009, had a main goal which was “to create a home for traveling exhibitions that local museums might find too large, too expensive, too nondisciplinary or too commercial for their nonprofit attention.” www.discoverytsx.com

Wednesday, March 6th, 2013

Jersey Boys

Ticket Prices: From $67.00

One of the best parts about New York City is the entertainment, via shows. If kicking back, relaxing and enjoying a show are your cup of tea, come watch Jersey Boys at the August Wilson Theatre. Jersey Boys is a show about the Four Seasons and how they went from the wrong side of the tracks to becoming one of the biggest American pop music sensations of all time.

The August Wilson Theatre was designed by architects C. Howard Crane and Kenneth Franzheim. Located at 245 W 52nd Street in New York City, the theatre opened as the Guild Theatre in 1925. It wasn’t until August Wilson’s death October 16, 2005, that the theatre was renamed in his honor.

Thursday, March 7th, 2013

Winter Stinky Cheese Festival

Ticket Prices: Varies

If you are a cheese lover, this is something you don’t want to miss. Experience over 20 different cheeses from nine of some of the city’s best eateries. The festival will kick off this weekend and continue until March 11th. For more information, visit http://tourdefrancenyc.com/

By Heather Wishart

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Tourism Tuesday Featuring Carnegie Hall

If you want to be treated like royalty for one night hop into a New York prom limo and catch a show at Carnegie Hall. Carnegie Hall is one of the most well-known tourist attractions in New York City. It was designed by architect William Burnet Tuthill and built by philanthropist Andrew Carnegie in 1891. Carnegie Hall is considered to be one of the most prestigious venues in the world of classical and popular music and has its own artistic programming, development, and marketing departments all on site.

Carnegie Hall has many different theatres that put on a variety of shows, different from the main stage.

The Main Hall (Isaac Stern Auditorium/Ronald O. Perelman Stage)

The Main Hall’s five levels of seating seats 2,804 people. There is no bad seat in this theatre. The highest seat available, for those who love heights, is approximately 137 steps to the top balcony.  Being one of the most famous concert stages in the United States, most of all the popular musicians and classical musicians have performed there since 1891. The last time this hall has been renovated was 1986.

Zankel Hall

Zankel Hall, better known as the Recital Hall, was the first auditorium open to the public in April of 1891. It is quite a bit smaller than the Main Hall only, seating 599 people. It, like the Main Hall, was also renovated in 1896 and renamed Carnegie Lyceum. What is so interesting about this particular hall is its flexibility, in that it can be reconfigured into several different arrangements. Most recently, it opened in the space in September of 2003.

Weill Recital Hall

Weill Recital Hall, which is named for Sanford I Weill and his wife Joan, was originally called Chamber Music Hall. This hall is still being used since it opened in 1891. It seats 268 people and has gone through many name changes until 1986 when it finally became Weill Recital Hall.

Carnegie Hall Archives

Not only does Carnegie Hall offer different rooms for your musical pleasure, it offers space for behind the scenes work as well. The Rose Museum contains working spaces for everyone from performing artists to rehearse, all the way to the architects, playwrights, and painters who design and create the shows.

Carnegie Hall is one of the last large buildings in New York that is built of masonry in its entirety. It  is unique in that there is no steel frame. The exterior of the building has Roman bricks with details done in terracotta and brownstone.

What is most interesting, is that Carnegie Hall is named after the person who financed it and not the person who actually created it like most buildings that you hear of.

Located at 57th St. and Seventh Ave. in Manhattan, Carnegie Hall must be on your list of things to experience when visiting New York City.

By Heather Wishart

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Tourism Tuesday Featuring 5Pointz Aerosol Art Center

When visiting New York, an amazing attraction that deserves a visit is the 5Pointz Aerosol Art Center. This awe-inspiring center is an outdoor attraction that is made up of spray paint and graffiti art covering a huge building that stretches almost a full block. The 200,000 square foot warehouse is used as an open canvas, attracting famous musicians and artists from all over the world to contribute to the walls. Notable celebrities have visited the amazing attraction, including Joan Jett, Joss Stone, and Grandmaster Kaz.

The basic idea for the 5Pointz Aerosol Art Center began in 1993 as an effort to stop graffiti vandalism. The idea was that, if graffitists had an area to display their work as art, vandalism would be decreased. The warehouse was called the “Phun Phactory” and in 2002, Jonathan Cohen was recruited to curate the work. Cohen, more commonly known by his tag name “Meres One”, transformed the “Phun Phactory” into what is now known as the 5Pointz Art Center. He manages and oversees the work and the walls of 5Pointz, selecting and approving artwork from specific artists, and then allocating space for their designs or tags.

The amazing outdoor art attraction has enticed people from all over the world to contribute their work to the center. The walls of the warehouse feature over 250 full color murals and images, projecting a bright, contrasting effect to the surrounding area. Jonathan Cohen views the designs and artwork of others, and then assigns the space for their work. His future plans are to convert the five story warehouse into a graffiti art museum. He also intends on opening an art school for students who appreciate the art of spray painting. New designs and names are frequently added to the warehouse, so there is always something new on this unique attraction.

Also called 5Pointz: The Institute of Higher Burning, this attraction is a unique and awe-inspiring experience. Simply viewing the outside walls of the warehouse are well worth the trip. For those who are interested in seeing more, though, 5Pointz offers a bi-weekly tour. For $35, guests are led on a tour throughout the warehouse by the founder and curator Jonathan Cohen, also known as “Meres One”. The tour also includes a painting demonstration, allowing guests to see how the artwork is done. The 5Pointz Aerosol Art Center is a truly amazing experience that shouldn’t be missed.

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(FlashForward Friday) Feb 16, 2013 – Feb 21, 2013

There are many fun and exciting events taking place this week off the standard New York City Grid. We are here to help provide you with ideas of what to do while you’re in NYC. If you are in New York City the week of February 16th through February 21st 2013, then read below to find some great activities from our Flash Forward Friday.

Saturday, February 16, 2013

The Anne Militello: Light Cycles stream down from the roof of the ten-story Winter Garden’s building. This beautiful lighting installation is designed by the famed lighting designer Anne Militello and is best when viewed from the exterior plaza. This beautiful light show is free of charge.

Sunday, February 17, 2013

Take part in the Chinese culture as you celebrate the Chinese New Year with this fun guided tour. After visiting 19th century secret passages, temples, and tearooms, guests then are treated to a dim sum luncheon. Dim sum is a traditional style of Chinese food in which all portions are bite-sized, adding to the fun cultural experience of the tour. Guests are then treated to the festivities of the New Year celebration, including dragon dances and traditional Asian music. Prices begin at $35.

Monday, February 18, 2013

Treat yourself to the sweet, creamy taste of hot chocolate, thanks to Maury Rubin’s hot chocolate festival. The owner of the City Bakery on 18th street, Maury Rubin’s hot chocolate festival features a different, delicious and unique hot cocoa flavor every day of February. http://www.thecitybakery.com/hot-chocolate

Tuesday, February 19, 2013

Jane’s Carousel is a carousel ride that was originally built in 1922 and was purchased by husband and wife Jane and David Walentas in 1984. Jane painstakingly worked on the carousel for years and, finally, the historically restored ride placed in Brooklyn Bridge Park for all to enjoy in 2011. The ride was damaged during the recent storm, but is now opened again for all to enjoy. http://janescarousel.com/

Wednesday, February 20, 2013

Located within the Staten Island Children’s Museum, Portia’s Playhouse is a fun area where children can fulfill their dreams of acting by dressing up and putting on various performances. Designed as a real theatre, including a real stage, there are many costumes and props to allow kids to use their imagination and perform. shows. http://statenislandkids.org/exh/portia.html

Thursday, February 21, 2013

The group The Dan Band will be performing at the famous B.B. King’s Blues Club and Grill at 8pm. First gaining popularity at a karaoke bar, The Dan Band has been featured in movies such as Starsky and Hutch and have made appearances on shows such as Jimmy Kimmel Live, The Late Late Show, and Ellen. Tickets start at $25 in advance and $30 on the day of the show. http://www.bbkingblues.com/bio.php?id=2461

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Outsider Art Fair 2013

Expect to find works by both legendary and newly discovered artists!
Location: Center 548/ 548 West 22nd Street/New York, NY 10011

Founded by Sanford Smith in 1993, the Outsider Art Fair soon became a critical and commercial success and the leading, annual event in the field of Outsider, Self-Taught and Folk Art. Recognized for its maverick spirit, the fair played a vital role in building a passionate collecting community as crowds flocked annually to New York’s Puck Building, the event’s original site during its first 15 years.
Under Wide Open Arts, a new company formed by art dealer Andrew Edlin, the Outsider Art Fair has moved to Chelsea at the site of the former Dia Foundation and will continue to provide a dynamic atmosphere for dealers to showcase compelling and unusual artworks. The 2013 fair will also add new elements, including the sponsorship of guest curatorial projects and other special events. Visitors to the fair can expect to find prime examples of works by both legendary and newly discovered artists.

The Outsider Art Fair, a place to discover the Henry Dargers of the world, returns with its 21st edition. Now under the management of Wide Open Arts, a company formed by gallerist and art brut artist champion Andrew Edlin, this year’s fair takes place at the old Dia space in Chelsea and promises the same dynamic atmosphere of fairs past. Stop in to peruse art by both legendary and newly discovered self-taught artists or perhaps take in a talk or panel discussion. Also slated, is a special exhibit highlighting Renaldo Kuhler’s Rocaterrania. A preview gala kicks things off on Thursday night January 31, 2013 and the fair runs through Sunday February 3, 2013.

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(FlashForward Friday) Jan 25, 2013 – Jan 31, 2013

There are so many wonderfully amazing things to do on and off the standard New York City Grid. We are here to help provide you with ideas of what to do while you’re in NYC. If you are in New York City the week of January 25th through till January 31st 2013, then read below to find some great activities from our Flash Forward Friday.

Friday January 25th 2013

American Folk Art Museum free music Fridays each Friday, from 5:30 to 7:30 pm, the museum trustees and staff invite the public to explore the galleries free of charge, enjoy refreshments in the cafe, and enjoy live music in the stunning atrium. Cost: Free.
Saturday January 26th 2013
The Circus at Webster Hall at the end of the 19th century, Webster Hall opened its doors to welcome the people of New York and the citizens of the world. Improper Bohemians, costumed revelers, and working artists mixed with the music. They danced, laughed, and glimpsed the future in an air of excitement and anticipation. Now, at the dawning of a new era, people unite and Webster Hall is reborn to welcome you home. Come celebrate the fusion of human spirit at Circus Saturdays! Cost: $15 advance $30 door.

Sunday January 27th 2013

New York Knicks vs. Atlanta Hawks Stop by Madison Square Garden as the Knicks look to make their last season as the city’s only basketball club memorable! Cost from: $71.00

Monday January 28th 2013

Johnny Winter live at B.B. King Blues Club & Grill for over 30 years, Johnny Winter has been a guitar hero without equal. Signing to Columbia records in 1969, Johnny immediately laid out the blueprint for his fresh take on classic blues a prime combination for the legions of fans just discovering the blues via the likes of Jimmy Page and Eric Clapton. Constantly shifting between simple country blues in the vein of Robert Johnson, to all-out electric slide guitar blues-rock, – Johnny has always been one of the most respected singers and guitar players in rock and the clear link between British blues-rock and American Southern rock (a la the Allman Brothers and Lynyrd Skynyrd.) Throughout the ’70s and ’80s, Johnny was the unofficial torch-bearer for the blues, championing and aiding the careers of his idols like Muddy Waters and John Lee Hooker.

Tuesday January 29th 2013

Celebrate customer Appreciation Month at Barbetta Restaurant by receiving a 25% Discount on all menus Lunch Dinner and Supper Including our Prix-Fixe Menu which will be running all night (The discount does not include alcoholic beverages).For reservations (212) 246-9171.Visit our website for more information: www.barbettarestaurant.com.

Wednesday January 30th 2013

Join Lisa Lampanelli at the Apollo Theater. This equal opportunity offender is a regular on “The Tonight Show with Jay Leno” and Howard Stern’s Sirius satellite radio shows. She recently joined the ranks of comic greats and added her first ever one-hour HBO comedy special, “Long Live the Queen,” to her resume, with a CD and DVD of the special to follow.

Thursday January 31st 2013

Symphony Space is a performing arts center on the Upper West Side of Manhattan offering programs in theatre, film, literature, music, dance and family. Come out unwine at Symphony Space, free music Thursday’s, enjoy the weekly live music, no cover charge.