The Metropolitan Museum of Art
Adjacent to the historic Central Park, you will find the MET located on Fifth Avenue and 82nd Street. The MET is one of many amazing museums to visit in Manhattan but possibly the most well known. They boast 5,000 years of history from the Standing female figure with clasped hands dating back to early Mesopotamia to the Head of Amenhotep III, and Pablo Picasso’s oil canvas, Bust of a Man. However, planning a visit here is a bit more pricey than the Brooklyn Museum, $20 for adults. There is a $10 discount for students; however, please check with your school administrator to ensure your student I.D. allows a discount and/or free admission. There are 15 current exhibitions during these summer months, check out the website to find one that peaks your curiosity. I plan on attending African and Oceanic Art from the Barbier-Mueller Museum in Geneva from June 2-Septemeber 27. Stay fabulous out there!
Central Park
It’s almost too cliche to even mention Central Park. However, this is a classic location in our great city that will never get old, whether your a tourist or lifelong resident. As I stated early, Central Park was designed approximately 150+ years ago by the same men who are responsible for Prospect Park located in Brooklyn. Central Park holds a special place in everyone’s heart and that’s what I love most about this faux greenland in the middle of Manhattan. What’s not to love about the romantic carriage rides, the walking tours during blooming season, or the summer chess and checkers programs? The list of events and activities are immense but I would be remiss if I didn’t mention these summer classics: Summer Stage, the free performing arts festival (Genuwine and Chico DeBarge, July 26th from 3-7pm), the free New York Philharmonic Concerts, and Shakespeare in the Park (the Twelfth Night with Natalie Portman, July 25th). Last but not least, is Tavern on the Green, located in the heart of Central Park. This is a very magical location and unfortunately will not be featured anytime soon in this blog as the price per plate can reach $40 and I therefore will not be venturing out to 67th street anytime soon.
Brooklyn Museum
The Brooklyn Museum is not only worth visiting but necessary to frequent! If you don’t have the funds to explore the 560,000 square foot interior it’s worth the 30 minute trip from Midtown to take pictures against the beautiful 19th century Beaux-Arts facade and recently redesigned front entrance as of April 2004. You can simply grab a hot dog and sit on the front steps and watch little children play in the water fountain displays that line the front of the museum or skateboarders ridding the rails. Nonetheless, it’s only $10 to visit one of the many amazing exhibits that the Brooklyn Museum has to offer. From June 26-September 20, Yinka Shonibare MBE is the latest exhibit, Leisure Lady (with Ocelots), 2001 with life-size fiberglass mannequins.
Botanical Garden
Now you can’t talk about the Brooklyn Museum without talking about the next four Brooklyn attractions: Botanical Garden, the Brooklyn Public Library, Prospect Park, and Prospect Park Zoo. This National Historic Landmark, Botanical Garden, was founded in 1891 and according to the New York Sun it’s a “ a museum of living botanical masterpieces.” In fact, the New York Sun does little justice to the majestic wonderland that is the Botanical Garden; ladies, this may be a possible wedding location. Nonetheless, the Botanical Garden is also a scientific research organization and an educational center. From June 27-September 13, go and explore Botanical Garden’s Edible Garden. You will learn to grow great garden produce and meet with celebrity chefs and gardeners during the Garden’s live expos. However, this visit is a bit more costly with Adult Tickets at $20 and for those of us who are in school, $18 for students. Don’t quote me on this but I do believe there may be a deal for $16 to visit both the Brooklyn Museum and Botanical Garden as they are adjacent to one another. Stay Fabulous!
Brooklyn Public Library
Yes, like all libraries this is just a building filled with books; however, the Brooklyn Public Library on Grand Army Plaza is a sight to see. Whether you’re searching for a book inside or sipping a frappuccino on the front steps of the building, it’s worth it to take 5 minutes and stop by.
Prospect Park
This 585 acre park is located in the heart of Brooklyn right next door to all of the locations previously listed. Prospect park was designed by the same masterminds behind Central Park, Frederick Law Olmsted and Calvert Vaux. Some of the more popular activities include skating, pedal boating, horseback riding and picnicking on the 90 acre Great Lawn. Of course some of the activities I mention here will be more expensive than others but what’s so great about Prospect Park is the plethora of choices. Every Saturday Prospect Park hosts a Green Market from 8am-4pm, where several of the farmers accept credit cards. Between the months of April and October, you also be pleasantly surprised to find Congo Drummers playing away every Sunday from 2pm-dusk (on the Parkside Ave./Ocean Ave. Entrance). I’m not sure of the admission fee but when I find out I will definitely let you all know! Until then stay fab!
Prospect Park Zoo
While the Zoo may seem a little juvenile, I personally think it might be a fun or unique option for a date or maybe a random day out with friends. Nonetheless, for the price $7 you will be able to explore Prospect Park Zoo located within Prospect Park. Home to almost 400 animals and 80 different species, the entrance is located on 450 Flatbush Avenue with hours of operation from 10am-5:30pm.
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