NYC: Places We Go

Again, and Again, and Again

We have our go-to spots when we hit NYC, for various reasons.  Here's a few.

1. Washington Square Park

It was one of the areas we used to hang when we lived in the Bronx. We'd take the subway down, jump off, walk up the park, and then further up to MacDougal to Panchitos (which had the nerve to be closed at lunch this go round!). The park has been in the midst of a complete overhaul for the last year and it's really looking good. We love taking a stroll through.

This band was great. Swinging it old school with 'don't get around much anymore'.  I thought I was videotaping them on my phone, but I don't see it now. It either didn't work, or I taped with Gar's phone. Fingers crossed on that one.

There are always entertainers in every corner of the park. The trio was playing ragtime-esque songs. And yes, if you look close, the trumpet player laid his usual instrument down and played a tea kettle. Oh yeah, you read that right - a tea kettle. I know, first time I've seen or heard that one too.

It was a beautiful day, and this pooch pulled his owner to the fountain so he could have a lie-down. I don't think he knows he's a rule breaker. He can't read.

Nobody cared either. He was too darned happy.


2. Little Italy

My Grampy was born on Mulberry Street, but even before I knew that we'd take a walk through Little Italy. The people, the smell of the food cooking.........the cannoli.

The picture of us was taken by our waiter Sal. He was a show unto himself. I asked if there was a charge for the entertainment.

My cousin was on Mulberry Street at the same time as us, eating at a different restaurant. If we had only known.



3. South Street Seaport

We love it in the Seaport. Our friend's pub and restaurant is two blocks up on Fulton so we always have a place of refuge should we need a break.  Beyond that, it's a beautiful spot right on the water, steeped in history.  Walk straight up Fulton to the other side of the Island (10 minute walk) and you're at Ground Zero and Freedom Tower.  You've got a great view of the Brooklyn Bridge from the Seaport and there is your choice of boat rides. Also, the above the water park we discovered this trip. I'm not sure if we just missed it before or if it's new. Sadly, the wood carvers shop that used to be on the pier was gone. I'll assume it was a victim of Sandy. How sad. This guy has been there for years....carving ship mastheads and the like.  A lot was affected by the storm and there are restaurants and shops that are still closed, and a lot of temporary set ups. It will take time.

 

Have you been to NYC? If you have, what are your favorite places there? If not, book your tickets and hotel today. This time of year is beautiful in New York.


Freeform Friday

I was hoping to share the music from Washington Square Park, but that's not going to happen for aforementioned reasons. So, a little ditty you all know well and can sing along to. G's new go-to karaoke song. You did a good job at TJ Byrne's karaoke night, babe. You got everyone singing. It was classic. Click here if you're reading via email. 



By the way, I just love Ringo.

Hope you enjoy your Friday and have a great weekend.

Ciao for now,