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.

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 – 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.

Discovering NYC-Melissa

I was able to visit the Grand Central Holiday market earlier today. Located inside Grand Central station by the 42nd street exit and in Vanderbilt Hall , the market was lined with small wooden booths with unique and handmade goods, from jewelry to artisanal candles. The holiday fairs began at this location since 1933 and this year it operates from November 11th up until Christmas eve. Although it was pretty small it was a great discovery overall.

Discovering NYC – Miguel Vallarta (2)

On a leisurely walk downtown, I came across these glass floor panels that are designed to showcase archaeological remains hidden below the surface. What makes them so interesting is how they let people see the history underneath without destroying or disrupting the area around them. These panels offer a glimpse into the past while blending into the modern city landscape.

You can find these panels in Foley Square, located in the Financial District of Lower Manhattan. Foley Square is surrounded by important courthouses and historic buildings, but it’s also a spot where history comes alive in unexpected ways. The glass panels allow you to look beneath the ground, where artifacts and structures from centuries ago are preserved. It’s like walking over a window into New York City’s past.

Seeing something like this makes you realize how much history is all around us, even in the busiest parts of the city. It’s a reminder of how New York is a mix of old and new, and how the city works to protect its history while continuing to grow.

Discovering NYC-Little Island

Little Island is a new free public place located in Hudson Park in Manhattan. It opened to the public on May 21, 2021, providing a unique venue for New Yorkers and tourists from all over the world. This place looks like a stage, where anyone can experience a slow-paced life and a clean environment. There are many beautiful vegetation on the island, and you can also look out over New Jersey on the other side. It is a paradise for people here. When I first came here, I felt like I was in a place different from New York. Quiet and comfortable is my experience.

Discovering NYC: Melissa Ruiz Diaz

This pigeon sculpture, named The Dinosaur, is located on the Highline and was unveiled in mid-October and will be displayed there for the next 18 months. The sculpture is cast in aluminum and hand-painted by Ivan Argote, a Colombian-French artist. He celebrate the symbolism that pigeons have in New York City, while also challenging the traditional monuments that are typically made to pay homage to historical figures. The sculpture itself was so realistic that I found it a bit unnerving with the size difference. Overall, it was a nice experience to witness the new highline sculpture.