The Blog Apple - A Guide to New York City

The Best Souvenirs & Gifts in New York City.

2015-08-09T15:49:00.001-07:00

When you visit New York City you will be bombarded by hundreds of different street vendors and small gift shops trying to sell you NYC souvenirs. The problem is there is nothing unique or authentic about these tacky items. When I visit New York City, I look for a souvenir that is useful, and handmade by the wonderful artisans of New York City.

Here is one of my all-time favorite things I have ever purchased from New York City and you can purchase these on Etsy as well.They are tumbled marble coasters with a print of a vintage map of New York City featured on the top. They look great in my living room, and are used every day.

You can find them on Etsy by going here or my clicking on the image: http://etsy.me/1hmxkJX

I also saw these awesome I Love New York coasters, which I think I might purchase for my dining room. I like the modern chic feel these coasters have. They are featured here: http://etsy.me/1hvuzoi

The Free Guide to Free Things to Do in New York City

2015-07-18T20:00:00.002-07:00

To download the Free Guide to Free Things to Do in New York City, just click here!

The most exciting store in Manhattan...with a catch!

2015-07-18T19:58:00.001-07:00

There are thousands of places to shop within Manhattan, but there is one store in particular that is making a huge splash in the Home Decor market and that store is NYC Design+Craft. But there is a catch. They don't actually have a physical store. Instead they sell all of their handmade products online at Etsy:
www.etsy.com/shop/NYCDesignCraft.

The store specializes in travel themed decor, including Vintage Map Coasters & Magnets, Framed Prints, & more. NYC Design+Craft.

If you are looking for a unique gift or keepsake, even customized gifts like their Personalized Map Coasters, we would encourage you to visit.

Aside from their Personalized Map Coasters, NYC Design+Craft also sells the following:

NYC Design+Craft, a selection unique gifts that we love!

Great New York City Souviner Ideas

2014-02-25T13:54:00.002-08:00

I also saw these awesome I Love New York coasters, which I think I might purchase for my dining room. I like the modern chic feel these coasters have. They are featured here: http://etsy.me/1hvuzoi

NYC FREE: Landmarks & Famous Attractions

2012-10-09T13:32:00.000-07:00

New York City is home to more landmarks and other famous attractions than any other place in the country. What's even better is that many of these places are totally free. Here is a list of the best free Landmarks and Famous Attractions in the Big Apple:

1.) Staten Island Ferry

The Staten Island Ferry runs from Battery Park to Staten Island offering riders a chance to experience amazing views of Lower Manhattan for free. The only bad part is that it takes you to Staten Island.

http://www.nyc.gov/html/dot/html/ferrybus/statfery.shtml

2.) Grand Central Terminal

Grand Central Terminal was built in 1913 and is one of New York City's most famous landmarks. The beautiful ceiling, energy of the crowd, and the sounds of trains docking the stations will make you fall in love with this amazing NYC landmark.

http://www.grandcentralterminal.com/

3.) The New York Public Library

Nothing beats the smell of old books! Especially if those old books are housed in the beautiful New York Public Library. In addition to beautiful architecture and an impressive book collection, the museum is features temporary exhibits on a variety of topics. Once you are finished touring the library, go directly behind the library to my next attraction.

http://www.nypl.org/

4.) Bryant Park

Smaller than central park, but just as beautiful. Tree lined walkways, hundreds of tables, large lawn and surrounded by mid-town skyscrapers, it's easy to see why people love Bryant Park. Bryant Park also offer free summer movies in their lawn, as well as plays, ice skating and music.

http://www.bryantpark.org/

5.) St. Patrick's Cathedral

Bloomingdale's isn't the only landmark on 5th avenue, because right in the middle of all the amazing shopping sits one of the country's most beautiful cathedrals. St. Patrick's Cathedral is stunning. Words can't describe it.

www.saintpatrickscathedral.org

6.) Rockefeller Center

Built during the Great Depression, the construction of Rockefeller Center is in the heart of Manhattan. Rockefeller Center has continued to be an important New York City complex and visitors can enjoy the Art Deco architecture, watch live broadcasts of NBC shows and take in the occasional live performances of some of the world's biggest acts.

http://www.rockefellercenter.com

FREE Shows in New York City

2012-10-08T09:35:00.002-07:00

If you are planning a trip to New York City, did you know that you can attend a live taping of your favorite talk shows? Here’s a list of the city's most popular shows that you can attend while on your visit:

- The Late Show with David Letterman

- The Daily Show with John Stewart

- The Colbert Report with Stephen Colbert

- Late Night with Jimmy Fallon

- Live with Kelly and Michael

- The Rachel Ray Show

- Good Morning America

- The Early Show

10 Cheap Things: New York City

2012-10-07T19:13:00.003-07:00

There are millions of things to do in New York City, and here I will highlight some of my favorite affordable things to do in the Big Apple. If you've been planning a trip, or currently live New York then you know how expensive this city can be. So here are some fun and affordable options for the city:

10.) The New York Aquarium - Coney Island

The suggested donation on Pay What You Wish to See the Friday Fish Day is $13.00 at the New York Aquarium at Coney Island. But having been there several times, I would suggest you only pay a few dollars to get in.

9.) New York Transit Museum

If you live in New York or your planning a trip, I would suggest visiting the New York Transit Museum. Here you can learn about the history of the amazing transit system, and see some great artifacts. It's a true New York museum celebrating the real New York way of travel.

8.) Chinese Bus to Atlantic City

Are you a gambler? Would you like to get away from the city for the day? If you answered yes to either of those questions, then I would suggest heading to Chinatown and jumping on one of their buses to Atlantic City. You will pay roughly $12.00 for a round trip bus ticket, but once you arrive to the casino you will be given $20.00 to begin placing your bets. So you are technically getting paid to visit what is the second largest gaming town in the country. Enjoy.

7.) Cathedral of St. John the Devine

Head to Morningside Heights and enjoy the largest cathedral in the world, along with their biblical gardens.

6.) Charles A. Dana Discovery Center

Do you like to fish? If so, then you should head to the Charles A. Dana Discovery Center. Here children of all ages can fish, and they will provide you with the equipment you need to get started. The only catch is that you have to throw your catch back.

5.) Julliard School

There is no greater place for the performing arts than Julliard. Here you will find the world's most talented musicians, dancers, and actors. Come and enjoy one of their FREE live shows.

4.) Big Traffic

Max Silvestri, Gabe Liedman and Jenny Slate have teamed up and helped put Williamsburg in the comedy spotlight with their weekly stand-up show, which features touring comedians as well as local stars. Check it out!

3.) Catch the Subway

If you are adventurous and not afraid of possibly getting lost in a city of 11 million people, then I would suggest hoping on a subway car and jumping off at a random stop you have never been before. You will get to discover new things and see how others live in this diverse city. You will this to be vary enlightening and liberating. So get out there and try new things.

2.) Walking Tours

Walking tours are some of the most education and fun tours you can experience in the city. Many times these tours are led by New York residents, and they can give you the insight into NYC that will have you looking at the city in a whole new way.

Here are some of my favorite tours:

- Big Apple Greeters
- The New York City Big Adventure
- Free Tours by Foot - New York
- Bronx Trolley Tours
- Made In NY

1.) Get Lost

Get lost, ask for directions, try news things, and just enjoy the fact you are in the greatest city in the world.

The Best NYC Art Galleries

2012-10-07T16:42:00.004-07:00

New York is home to many world-class art galleries. So if you will be visiting New York in the near future and you appreciate fine art and culture, here are some of my favorite art galleries for you to explore.

Lehmann Maupin Gallery
540 W. 26th St., New York, NY 10001
212-255-2923
lehmannmaupin.com

This is one of my favorite galleries in the city, and it's located in the Chelsea district. Here you will find works of art by up-and-coming artists working in various forms who will change the contemporary art space.

L&M Arts
45 E. 78th St., New York, NY 10075
212-861-0020
lmgallery.com

You don't have to go to the Met to find works of art by renowned artists such as Picasso, and that's what makes L&M Arts one of the hidden treasures of New York City. Here at their uptown location, you will find amazing pieces of art in a vary unique setting. It's a must-see for art lovers.

Brooklyn Museum of Art
200 Eastern Pkwy, Brooklyn, NY 11225
718-638-5000
brooklynmuseum.org

At the Brooklyn Museum of Art, you will find a work that is sure to spark your interest, as their permanent collections represent every part of the world. BOMA is one of the oldest and largest museums in the country, you’ll view masterpieces, African wood sculptures and of course the famous Steinberg Family Sculpture Garden.

Agora Gallery

530 West 25th Street
New York, NY 11225
agora-gallery.com/

Established in 1984 to provide artists who are entering the New York art market and opportunity to showcase their work, Agora has become an iconic gallery in the heart of NYC. Come here to discover the undiscovered artists that make up New York's flourishing art scene.

Fun Facts about New York City

2012-10-06T09:48:00.001-07:00

Here are some fun and interesting facts about the Big Apple:

1. The Brooklyn Bridge is the first bridge to be lit at night by electricity.

2. The average temperature of New York City’s pavement on a hot summer day is 150 degrees.

3. Only Hong Kong has more skyscapers.
4. New York City has 4,000 street food vendors.
5. Manhattan’s Chinatown is the largest Chinese enclave in the Western Hemisphere.
7. New York has more street performers than any other city in the US.
9. Roughly 50 percent of New York City’s residents over the age of 5 speak a language other than English.
10. New York is the Greatest City on earth!

Central Park: The Happiest Place on Earth

2012-10-05T12:56:00.002-07:00

Central Park could rival Disney World as being the happy place on earth. Well, during the daytime anyway. There is so much to explore within the park's 843 acres. It's one place that both residents and tourists love equally, and once you step into the park you will immediate appreciate all beauty. There is a sports complex, zoo, amusement park, ponds, flower gardens, a castle and so much more. That's right, I said a castle!

For the lovebirds, take a carriage ride through the park or enjoy a picnic on the lawn. During the winter time, there is nothing more romantic than ice skating on the pond before dusk. And for the parents, you can take your kids to the awesome zoo, or amusement park.

Here is a list of my top things to do in Central Park:

1.) The Loeb Boathouse

2.) Shakespeare in the Park

3.) Picnic in the Park

4.) Get Lost in the Park

5.) A Clearing in the Forest

6.) Central Park Circuit (Running)

*Fun Fact: From 1864 to 1934 a flock of pedigree sheep grazed in the park. They where removed to prospect parkin Brooklyn in 1934.

New York City has Many FREE Museums

2012-10-05T07:08:00.003-07:00

FREE NYC: Falls Concerts

2012-10-04T14:30:00.000-07:00

One of the purposes of this blog is to give you access to some lost-cost, or even free things to do in the Big Apple. So, here are some free concerts that take place in New York City over the next few months.

Check out these great concerts by clicking on the links below for more information:

Tactus Ensamble - Oct.4th

http://www.clubfreetime.com/vieweventdetails.asp?ID=154788

The Bright Silence - Oct. 18th
http://www.myfreeconcert.com/events/the-bright-silence-aabaraki-great-elk

Cake Shop - Oct. 18th

http://www.myfreeconcert.com/events/hurray-for-the-riff-raff-heliotropes-hans-chew-and-more

Sam Mickens CMJ Party - Oct. 18th

http://www.myfreeconcert.com/events/sam-mickens-cmj-party-ft.-jack-ladder-the-dreamlanders-zzzs

FREE NYC: Etsy Craft Class

2012-10-04T09:57:00.001-07:00

At Brooklyn crafters and artists! The Etsy Labs now host free weekly craft nights, a monthly craft meeting, as well as community events focused on the creative arts. So, if you want to learn a new skill, such as sewing, jewelry making, book binding, or embroidering, you've come to the right place.

Craft Night occurs every Monday from 4-8 pm at the Etsy Labs in Brooklyn located at 55 Washington Street.

Go here for more information: http://www.meetup.com/etsylabs/

FREE NYC: The Other Island

2012-10-04T05:53:00.001-07:00

Manhattan isn't the only island within New York City filled with history. Governors Island is filled with historical buildings, Revolutionary War reenactments, and tours. Once you step off the ferry and onto Governors island you will feel like you are in a small town. You will aslo get to experience some amazing views of the Manhattan skyline.

The ferry to Governor’s Island is absolutely free, where you will have access to this 172-acre island which opened to the public only in 2003. There’s also bike path, mini golf, a picnic area, and a ‘ghost town’ at Nolan Park. Ferries leave from Battery Maritime Bldg, Slip 7 in Lower Manhattan.

Fun Fact: In 2009 Prince Harry played a polo match on this island, and celebrities such as Madonna attended the event.

HAHAHA:New York Comedy Festival

2012-10-03T13:20:00.000-07:00

The New York Comedy Festival is one of the city's most anticipated events of 2012. With performances by some of stand-ups biggest names, in the world's most famous clubs, this is one event you don't want to miss. Some of this year's performers include Robin Williams, Adam Carolla, & Ricky Gervais. For tickets go to www.nycomedyfestival.com

Event Date(s): Nov. 7th - 11th.

NYC Museums are FREE!

2012-10-03T13:05:00.003-07:00

FREE NYC: Take a Walk on the Wild Side

2012-10-03T12:17:00.002-07:00

Want to learn more about New York City from the eyes of those who live here? Take a free walking tour and discover the "undiscovered" places that have made New York City the greatest place on earth.

Here are some free walking tours that I recommend:

8th Street Walking Tour
Discover the site of Jimi Hendrix's Electric Lady recording studio, Jack Kerouac's local haunts, and Edward Hopper's home! This tour is guided by Arthur Marks.
• Saturdays from May through October at 11:30 a.m.; tour lasts an hour and a half
• Meet at the northwest corner of St. Marks Pl. and Second Ave.; 212-777-2173; villagealliance.org

The Federal Reserve Bank
Show me the money! The Federal Reserve offers free tours, that will take you five stories underground into their gold vaults, showcasing how the bank functions, and let you test your new knowledge at Fedworks multimedia center. They will even give you some (shredded) money at the end of the tour. Call to make a reservation at least a week in advance.
• Monday through Friday, 9:30 a.m., 10:30 a.m., 11:30 a.m., 1:30 p.m., 2:30 p.m.; tour lasts one hour
• 33 Liberty St., btw. Nassau and William Sts.; 212-720-6130; newyorkfed.org

Brooklyn BreweryWant to learn how brew is brewed? Take this free tour at the Williamsburg brewhouse. You will get a beer sample to finish off the day! (Tour is all ages; sample for those 21+ only.)
• Saturdays at 1 p.m., 2 p.m., 3 p.m., and 4 p.m.; tour lasts 30 minutes
• 79 North 11 St., btw. Berry and Wythe Sts.; 718-486-7422; brooklynbrewery.com

The Hotel Alternative

2012-10-03T10:32:00.000-07:00

While planning a visit to the Big Apple, you will find that hotel rooms can be expensive, small, and may lack the amenities you desire. So why not consider an alternative option? Why not consider short-term apartment rentals.You can live like a true New Yorker, and you can find rentals in nearly every neighborhood.

Here is why I recommend short-term rentals:

- Affordability (prices can start as low as $50.00 per night)
- Unique Options (apartments, townhouses, brownstones)
- Space (more space for the money)
- Your own kitchen (shop at local markets and cook yourself a real an authentic NYC dinner)

Here are some websites I recommend:

www.nyhabitat.com

www.citi-habitats.com

www.homeaway.com

Free NYC: Get Tickets to The Late Show with David Letterman

2012-09-20T07:16:00.000-07:00

Did you know that you can experience one of the best shows in New York City for free? The Late Show with host David Letterman gives out free tickets for those who submit a request (and answer a trivia question). Who would want to see Dave live at the Ed Sullivan Theater, along with celebrity guests who appear on the show? I've had the pleasure of going to two tapings, and it's something I will never forget.

Getting Tickets Online:

Request Late Show with David Letterman tickets online. Those selected for tickets will receive a phone call and be asked to answer a trivia question related to the show in order to receive up to two tickets.

Getting Tickets In-Person:

You can request tickets in person for shows in advance at the Ed Sullivan Theatre at 1697 Broadway (between 53rd & 54th Streets). Ticket requests will be accepted Monday-Thursday from 9:30 a.m.-12 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday from 10 a.m.-6 p.m.

Getting Stand-by Tickets:

Call 212-247-6497 starting at 11 a.m. on the day of the show you would like to attend. You will be asked to answer a Late Show trivia question, and if you answer it correctly, you'll be asked to arrive at the theater approximately an hour before taping. Stand-by tickets do not guarantee admission to the show.

Trivia Questions Asked:

How would you like to know what trivia questions will be asked when you call in? Well here they are, but you need to find the answers yourself:

a.) What is the name of the red-headed announcer for the Late Show?

b.) What is the name of the female guitar player in the band?

c.) What is the name of the Deli located behind the Ed Sullivan Theater?

How to Hail a Taxi in NYC

2012-09-19T09:38:00.003-07:00

For many New Yorkers taking a taxi is the preferred method of travel. You don't have to be stuck underground in the subway, and a taxi can drop you off directly in front of your destination. For those of you who have never rented a taxi in the Big Apple, there are some rules to catching a ride. They are as follows:

1.) Understand that you cannot prearrange for a taxi to come and pick you up. So get out on that sidewalk.

2.) Know which taxis are available. All NYC taxis have lights atop the roof. When the middle light is lit, that means that the cab is available. If all the lights are lit, that means that the cab is off-duty. If none of the lights are lit, that means that the cab is occupied.

3.) To hail a taxi, stick your arm out while you step off the curb. Don't get discouraged if an available taxi picks you up. There are thousands of cabs in the city and you will get a ride. It doesnt hurt to flash some cash in your hand either. Cash is the only accepted form of payment for a taxi in NYC.

4.) Know the rules. A taxi in NYC has a maximum occupancy of 4 passengers. Small children sitting on your lap don't count.

5.) Give the driver a tip.

Sunny Side Up: The Best in Breakfast

2012-09-18T14:02:00.001-07:00

New York City is known just as much for it's food, as it is it's fashion and entertainment. So when you crawl out of bed and begin to prepare for a big day in the 'Big Apple', you better eat a big breakfast.

So where is the best breakfast in the city? It's certainly debatable, but I would have to say Shopsin's.

Why? Mac n’ cheese pancakes. Do I have to say anymore? With over 200 items on their menu, it might take you until dinner time to read through it. Don't come here expecting a traditional breakfast. Yum Yum.

Crash at The Jane

2012-09-18T13:16:00.001-07:00

When you are in NYC you shouldn't be spending too much time in your hotel room. After all you have the world outside your window, and the last thing you should be doing is taking a nap. It's called 'the city that doesn't sleep' for a reason.

If you are looking for an affordable place to crash that is in a great location, then I would recommend checking out The Jane. With rooms starting at $99 per night, this place is a steal. The Jane is located in the West Village, right next to the trendy Meatpacking District and walking distance to Chelsea, Soho, and Union Square. There are tons of restaurants, bars, nightclubs and boutiques surrounding The Jane, and they are close to the A, C, and E trains at 14th Street.

Go to their website to find out more information: www.thejanenyc.com

NYC Museums: Pay What You Wish

2012-09-18T12:17:00.000-07:00

New York is known for being an expensive city to live and play in. But what if I told you that you could visit some of New York's best museums and galleries, and pay-what-you-wish? It's True! Many of these museums will have 'Recommended' cost for admission, sometimes for as much as $25.00 per person. But don't worry about it, because you could give them a penny if you dare, and they will still smile and hand you a ticket.

Here is a list of museums that are FREE or pay-what-you-wish:

American Folk Art Museum American Museum of Natural History (pay what you wish)
Bronx Museum (pay what you wish)
Brooklyn Academy of Music's BAMcafé live events
Brooklyn Museum (pay what you wish)
The Cloisters (pay what you wish)
El Museo del Barrio (pay what you wish)
Godwin-Ternbach Museum at Queens College
Metropolitan Museum of Art (pay what you wish)
Museum at the Fashion Institute of Technology
Museum of American Illustration
Museum of Biblical Art (pay what you wish)
National Museum of the American Indian—Smithsonian Institution
New York City Police Museum (pay what you wish)
P.S.1 MoMA (pay what you wish)
Queens Museum of Art (pay what you wish)
SculptureCenter (pay what you wish)
Socrates Sculpture Park
Staten Island Museum (pay what you wish)
Studio Museum in Harlem (pay what you wish)
Waterfront Museum

Free NYC - The Downtown Boathouse

2012-09-18T11:51:00.002-07:00

Are you looking for something fun to in New York, but don't want to spend any money? Are you visiting, but don't want to spend your entire trip in Times Square or Central Park? Then I have the perfect place for you. The Downtown Boathouse!

The Downtown Boathouse offers free kayaking in the Hudson River for all who are interested. They also have weekly classes, seminars, trips, and other adventures out on Hudson's low tide.

I can tell you first hand that you will not experience a better view of the city than looking up at the entire western skyline of Manhattan.

Locations: Pier 40 Pier 90 and 72nd St.

For more information go to www.downtownboathouse.org

Welcome to the Jungle

2012-09-18T11:31:00.000-07:00

Welcome to The Blog Apple. Here I will be posting valuable information for those who are looking to visit or even live in NYC.

New York is the greatest city on earth, and I look forward to sharing with you all that it has to offer.

Cheers!