Pier 16 and Hanover Square, New York Discovery

Pier 16 and Hanover Square, New York

Pier 16, located at the South Street Seaport, is a captivating blend of New York’s maritime history and modern city life. As you walk along the pier, you’ll be greeted by stunning views of the East River and the iconic Brooklyn Bridge, making it a perfect spot for photography or simply soaking in the beauty of the waterfront. The pier is also home to historic ships and the Seaport Museum, offering visitors a glimpse into NYC’s nautical past. After exploring, I ventured to Hanover Square, a charming area nearby, where I enjoyed a delicious meal in a cozy restaurant. The meal, paired with a refreshing drink, made for a memorable dining experience. Pier 16 and its surroundings provide a peaceful yet vibrant setting that’s perfect for both history enthusiasts and food lovers alike, offering a unique perspective on the city away from the usual bustle.

Times Square, New York

Times Square, New York NYC Discovery

Times Square is the beating heart of Manhattan, a dazzling intersection that symbolizes the vibrant energy of New York City. Known as “The Crossroads of the World,” it is famous for its towering digital billboards, bustling crowds, and round-the-clock activity. Whether you’re marveling at Broadway theaters, grabbing a quick bite at a nearby eatery, or people-watching from the iconic red steps of the TKTS booth, Times Square offers a sensory overload that’s unmatched. It’s a must-visit spot for any tourist looking to experience the city’s pulse and capture its iconic glow.

Discovering NYC (2)-Abigail Obeng

Bronx Zoo

Bronx Zoo is one of the most renowned metropolitan zoos in the world. The Bronx Zoo is the home for animals such as elephants, tigers, monkeys, and many more. The offers attractions like Wild Asia Monorail and for you to see them you would have to be accompanied by a tour guide, some of the animals are very wild and some are very friendly. As I was walking towards the zoo there was something that catch my attention. On the floor of the side walk heading towards the zoo there were several animals that were been designed on the side walk with words of interactions between the animals which was amazing. I will encourage everyone to visit but if you are not a lover of animals that might not be the place for you.

Brooklyn-Dyker Heights Lights

I was walking back home one evening with my mom; we were visiting my aunt, who lives near Dyker Heights, and we came across houses with pretty lights. We were amazed at how many people started taking pictures in front of the houses, and it was getting crowded with people walking. I would recommend that others try visiting; it’s free and great for pictures. Not to mention that Dyker Heights are famous for the Christmas lights, and they also offer tours.

Disney Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas

New York Botanical Garden

On October 31, Halloween night, I saw The Nightmare Before Christmas trail lights in the Bronx botanical garden. I went with my boyfriend, so he drove us over there, and the distance was much longer compared to the walk through the garden full of lights. It was a good hour from here in Brooklyn to the Bronx. The walk was about 20–30 minutes. Which was a ripoff, especially for the amount of money I spent for ONE ticket, but there was a promotion going on, and I saved 20% for going on a Thursday night. I spent about $80.00 on both tickets, and I thought sice it was Halloween, everyone would be outside tick or treating, but NOO. It was packed; I don’t really like being in areas that get crowded quickly. But overall I love the movie, so that’s why I wanted to attend, and I’m obsessed with Zero. Would I recommend others go? No, but if you’re a big fan, then go for it, but you wouldn’t catch me going again; that one time was great!

Discovering NYC (1)-Abigail Obeng

River Park

River Park is small public park located in the Bronx, New York City, which is along the Bronx River. It is part of larger Bronx River Greenway, series of parks and pathways were designed to provide access to and preserve the Bronx River. River Park is a place you can go to relax and observe the beautiful nature around. I have heard a lot about River Park being a beautiful site to visit so I decided to experience it for myself and yes it was a very beautiful site to visit but we can do better with the place when it comes to preserving the place for tourist attractions. Fishes are supposed to be in the river, which is supposed to be the home for fishes but there was none due to the way the River has become uncleaned and the surroundings was not very appealing but its a very relaxing place to be.

Discovering NYC – Janelle Victor

The Shops at Columbus Circle

I visited the Shops at Columbus Circle. Which is a shopping mall located in Columbus Circle in the upper west side. The entire mall is decorated with holiday lights. The mall is popular with locals and tourists, but the holiday decor invites people to just view the decorations, which are beautiful. Taking the subway home, I ran into a discovery of the “Turnstyle Underground Market” which is a market inside of the train station. I had no idea it existed, so it was very cool to of stumbled upon it. It was after 8pm so the shops were closed, but I could imagine how busy it gets during operating hours. Especially during this cold season, commuters can eat and shop, without ever going outside. It was fun to actual discover a part of NYC.

Turnstyle Underground Market

Discovering NYC – Janelle Victor

Lincoln Center

I visited Lincoln center. which is a performing arts center located in the upper west side. It is the largest Arts center in the United States. The center has several different theaters and hosts different shows throughout the year. Events are ticketed but during the summer a lot of outdoor events that are free and open to the public take place. The center attracts tourists from around the world at any time of the year. On my walk to the center, I noticed lights in different areas surrounding the center. It did not seem to be holiday lights, as the color was blue. So, I was very interested. When I got closer, I noticed a sign advertising “Lincoln Square’s Magical Lights.” When I later looked it up, I learned that it was an installation with radioactive lights. The lights change color based on music played, singing or even clapping. I think the sign should have had a QR code to allow visitors to scan it and allow them to be informed of this cool factor. I feel I missed out on the opportunity due to the lack of information. The lights, which were hanging from the trees were still very pretty to view.

Discover NYC: The Vessel – Jessica

On October 29th, my aunt, uncle and I went walked the High Line, eventually reaching the Vessel. After some curiosity, we decided to go to this infamous location. It’s at the end of the High Line and next to the Edge observation deck. This was around the time it had recently reopened, and we paid $10 a person – a rip-off by New York City resident standards. The Vessel’s history is bit morbid, so there were security precautions everywhere, a metal detector, some staircases were closed off and there was netting all around. This would interest a tourist who may be curious as to what the structure is and the potential photo opportunities.

Discovering NYC (2)

Step into a magical gingerbread village at Columbus Circle Mall, 59th and Broadway in NYC, where the holiday spirit truly comes alive. This village is inspired by the charm of New York City and is made from thousands of pounds of real gingerbread, icing, and candy. It features colorful houses decorated with candy, creating an atmosphere that has warm memories and a sense of joy. Each home is designed, showcasing a level of detail that makes this holiday display feel like a small winter wonderland. Created by Jon Lovitch, the Guinness World Record holder for the largest edible gingerbread village, this delightful installation combines creativity, craftsmanship, and festive cheer. Whether you’re admiring the candy decorations or just soaking in the holiday ambiance, it’s an experience that will fill you with holiday joy and nostalgia.

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