Amy Ellison

New York City has tons of things going for it, from incredible buildings to breathtaking parks. But surely, the top of the list includes NYC’s vast array of museums and galleries, covering every field of culture and knowledge: There are quirky museums and interactive museums, free museums and world renowned art institutions like the Met. Between them, they offer so many exhibitions of every variety and taste that it's hard to keep track of them. But if you’re starting to suffer a sudden attack of FOMA (that's fear of missing art ;)), don't worry! We've got you covered with our select list of the best museum exhibitions in NYC. Don't waste any time—head to NYC's best museum exhibits now! RECOMMENDED: Full guide to museums in NYC

As much as New Yorkers love their city, they want to be transported to another space and time — at least that's the trend museums, companies and artists are capitalizing on. Immersive exhibits, events and experiences are popping up all over NYC these days. From theatrical experiences to trippy digital art taking over massive spaces, there's no shortage of ways to be immersed in a different reality. With so many ways to be immersed, we decided it was high time to round up all the cool, immersive events, exhibits and experiences happening in NYC now and coming up soon so you won't miss the chance to experience something new and potentially mind-blowing. RECOMMENDED: The best museum exhibitions in NYC right now

We're throwing the spookiness into high gear with events for Halloween in NYC. October is filled with costume parties, haunted houses, corn mazes, parades and even dog parades — and we're so ready! Don't bother breaking out your sewing kit, New York's greatest Halloween stores have plenty of options to make you look really spooky. Make sure to check out our NYC events in October too for even more activities to finish off the month in killer spirits.  Bookmark this link because we'll be updating this guide all autumn long. RECOMMENDED: Full guide to Halloween in NYCThe 40 best Halloween songs of all timeThe best Halloween movies of all timeThe best Halloween events in the U.S.The best Halloween costume ideas in the U.S. for 2025The best Halloween theater in 2025

Not too long ago, the prospect of starting a career in the kitchen seemed like a dismal one. Just five years ago, COVID shut down the world, exposing the cracks in the restaurant industry and shuttering thousands of businesses, many of which stayed closed for good. However, those with culinary aspirations still found a way not just to survive, but to redefine what dining could be—one that fosters collaboration, community and puts purpose on the plate.I am proud to report that the next generation of chefs is continuing that ethos forward. Today, we announce Time Out’s Best Young Chefs. Our new class of culinarians is not just cooking good food; they are cooking food with impact. Our New York class of chefs is pushing the industry forward in their own ways, from exploring the boundaries of Indian cuisine to spearheading vegan food to feeding their community one bread loaf at a time. Join us in tipping our hats to the future of food—which looks highly promising in the hands of these incredible young chefs.

New York City has much to behold from river views to impressive bridges to gorgeous foliage, making it one of the best places to take a run. With spacious parks, stunning waterfronts and beautiful beaches, the city has plenty of scenic running routes to explore. Whether you're stretching those limbs after a particularly gruesome winter or want to take in beautiful fall foliage while getting fit, these five running routes are so pretty you won't be paying attention to those burning muscles. RECOMMENDED: Find the best fitness classes and gyms in NYC

Sure, seeing New Yorkers walking around the city in costumes is a blast during the Halloween season. But seeing dogs in costumes takes the seasonal fun to a whole new level. From dogs dressed up like hot dog carts to pups pretending to be mythical creatures, the creativity knows no bounds. We've got the full rundown of pup-friendly Halloween events across the five boroughs. They're presented here in chronological order, so you can mark your calendar for a totally paw-some Halloween season in NYC. RECOMMENDED: The best Halloween events for 2025 in NYC

Want to cheer on your loved one in the biggest race of the year, the TCS New York City Marathon? The route is huge at 26.2 miles, so you need to plan on where you’ll watch them run. The 2025 NYC Marathon will take place on Sunday, November 2, starting at 8am.  The entire city turns into a party to cheer on our the incredible runners. Below, find the full NYC Marathon route, its starting and stopping points and how to watch it live on TV. RECOMMENDED: Full guide to NYC Marathon 2025 Where does the NYC Marathon route start? The route begins on Staten Island and exits Staten Island via the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge. It takes runners through Brooklyn and then into Queens before entering Manhattan and The Bronx.  Where does the NYC Marathon route end? After a trip up into The Bronx, runners head back down into Manhattan and enter Central Park, where they finish. You can see the full route map here. Where can I watch the race? You can cheer on the runners across the five boroughs at the following spots: Fourth Avenue, Brooklyn (Miles 2-4): Catch runners as they exit the Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge and move along Fourth Avenue. Subway: R Fourth Avenue and Flatbush Avenue (Mile 8): Subway: B, D, N, Q, R, 2, 3, 4, 5 Williamsburg and Greenpoint, Brooklyn (Miles 10-13): Claim sidewalk space along streets lined with shops and restaurants and encourage runners as they head toward the Pulaski Bridge to cross into Queens. Subway: G, L, M, J Pulaski Bridge (Mile 13.1): The Pulaski B

Halloween enthusiasts start prepping for the holiday even before the first leaves start to turn. There’s so much to plan, from picking a pumpkin to finding the perfect costume and decorations. To really get in the mood for Halloween, these NYC ghost tours should be on the checklist, too. The city is full of legit spooky spots and haunted places, from cemeteries and haunted mansions to a crumbling hospital and tragedy-prone island. These NYC ghost tours will take you through all the nooks and crannies where real-life horrors and paranormal sightings happened right in our own backyard. Be warned, however: you may never look the same way at certain neighborhoods ever again. After uncovering local frights on an NYC ghost tour, you can opt for a more interactive screamfest at a haunted house, or just stay safely indoors with some popcorn and one of the best horror movies. RECOMMENDED:Cheap things to do in NYCThe best outdoor art in NYCThe best NYC night markets This article includes affiliate links. These links have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, click here.

Autumn in New York just might be one of the best seasons of the year. We’re no longer melting from the summer heat, leisurely strolls become pleasurable again, thoughts turn to outdoor dining and spending time in NYC’s parks like our beloved Central Park, and best of all the leaves start to turn. The brilliant colors of fall can add a pep to your step as you breathe in the crisp cool air. So if you’re wondering where to see fall foliage in NYC, look no further. These spots around the city will be bursting with the reds, yellows and oranges of fall. You might think leaf-peeping is primarily for New Englanders, but New Yorkers have plenty of options for viewing the foliage in and around the city. From a stroll through a park to a train ride through the Adirondacks, natural beauty is definitely within reach. When planning your fall viewing, be sure to check out some apple-picking spots near NYC. And if New York City fall foliage is not enough, check out our guide to all the other great spots where you can see fall foliage in the US. Recommended: The best things to do this fall in NYC

Though the city is known as Brazil’s financial hub and a serious "concrete jungle," these labels don’t capture just how cosmopolitan and fascinating São Paulo can be. Its enormous size means that this isn't a city where you can show up and hope for the best: to make the most of it, you need to arrive with a plan. Sure, the city's glamorous restaurants and bars are renowned—but you can dig deeper to find underground parties in abandoned factories, alleyways inked with Brazil's best street art and lofty views over Ibirapuera park. Here are the best things to do in São Paulo. RECOMMENDED:🏡 The best Airbnbs in Rio de Janeiro📍 The best things to do in Rio de Janeiro🧳 The best cities in the world for 2024 At Time Out, all of our travel guides are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our editorial guidelines. 

Nailing down the best Halloween costume is like finding a needle in a haystack—you have to know where to look! You can cobble together a spooky look by shopping from NYC’s best thrift stores and flea markets, sure, but NYC has some of the best Halloween costume stores around, from Abracadabra to Brooklyn Superhero Supply Company. And often, these shops also sell Halloween decor (skeletons, bats, dismembered body parts, spider webs and all things creepy and crawly), too.  We’ve compiled a list of the best Halloween stores in NYC based on our experience, hopping from shop to shop to find the best costumes and decor. Once you’re set with Halloween trimmings, get in the spirit by checking out a haunted house or all the NYC-area Halloween events on tap. You can even pay a visit to some of the city’s real-life haunted places. But before all that, make sure your costume is on point and your decorations are spot on with a trip to the best Halloween stores in NYC.

While some of us spend fall dreaming of hot apple cider, hayrides and picking apples and pumpkins, others are eagerly planning for the upcoming terror-fest that is Halloween in NYC. In addition to finding a costume (check out the best Halloween stores in the city) and choosing which Halloween events to attend, it’s time to start thinking about all the haunted houses in NYC to hit up. These haunted houses are intense with thrills and chills that will shake you to your core. You’ll experience ghouls, gore and plenty of undead action, but don’t we all love a good scream around Halloween? If you’re looking for a real-life creep-out, there are plenty of haunted places and spooky spots in the city that will give you the willies any time of year, but these haunted houses in NYC offer peak terror that’s perfect for the Halloween season. So take in a few of the best horror movies and head out to celebrate the scariest time of year.

The eighth annual Wallabout Wonderland is back at the Brooklyn Storehouse on December 6 and 7. The market brings together over 150 local vendors offering clothing, accessories, home décor, artisanal foods and more. Guests can also participate in family-friendly activities including cookie decorating, holiday card-making, photo ops and hands-on workshops.  Some highlights of the market include The Wallabout Workshop: Sip & Sweater Edition where you can craft your own ugly holiday sweater with Lend Me Your Ears and The Christmas Corner ($55 ticket, supplies included); Picture Perfect: Winter Edition, a festive photo activation by ELTSUH (digital copies free; printed options available); yard games like archery and pickleball for all ages; winter-themed floral arrangements for gifting or decorating; and Dash & Co. Café for hot chocolate and festive treats.  The market will be open from 12-5pm at the Navy Yard's Brooklyn Storehouse (Building 293). It's hosted by the Brooklyn Navy Yard Development Corporation.

The MESA Pop-Up market is coming back to Greenpoint's Golden Drum for two days this December, just in time for holiday shopping. This fair-trade market features traditional shamanic arts from Central and South America, including Indigenous artwork, beadwork, clothing and jewelry connected with sacred ceremony and plant medicine. Also look for clothing, tapestries, rare sound healing instruments, herbal apothecary and wild-handcrafted products. Vendors include Woven Visions Tribe, Didge Project, Sonic Institute, Made in Prayer and more. While you shop, enjoy vegetarian food and exotic herbal elixirs. The Marketplace of Ethically Sourced Goods is open from 5pm-10pm on Friday, December 5 and from 11am-7pm on Saturday, December 6. 

Award-winning interior designer Brad Ford is debuting a modern maker fair in NYC this December. Field + Supply Holiday MRKT promises a unique blend of design, craft and community. The market will take place at the Starrett-Lehigh Building in Chelsea, where holiday shoppers can purchase one-of-a-kind gifts and goods across home, lifestyle, fashion, food and wellness categories. Featured vendors include Wild Arc Farm, Carla Colour, Ilex Studio, SANCHAI INC., Suzanne Kumar Ceramics and odette new york.  Also look for floral arranging programs, cooking demonstrations, a design-forward Christmas tree installation and beautiful wrapping stations.  The market will be open Saturday, December 6 and Sunday, December 7 from 10am to 5pm each day at 601 W 26th St. Pre-sale tickets are currently $20 for a one-day pass and $30 for the two-day pass. 

Ladies, are you tired of swiping on dating apps and getting no results? In a new dating experiment, Love Isn't Blind, hosted and created by Allison Goldberg, the men have to do all the work, with one little caveat—they're not allowed to talk!  On November 21 at Brooklyn venue Littlefield, a group of lucky men will compete on stage for one bachelorette through a series of games—including calling the guy's moms and searching through their phones. Once it's narrowed down to the final two men and they finally get to speak, the lucky winner is sent out immediately on a date with the bachelorette to see if it's a match made in heaven (or not).  Audience members, don't fret—this is a chance for you to find love, too. After the show, you'll be given wristbands according to your relationship status and encouraged to mingle. If you're too shy to make a move, a "wingcouple" (who are wearing actual wings) will step in to help.  You can apply here to be in the show or nominate your single friends here. If you want to be a spectator to the fun, you can purchase your ticket here. Doors open at 7pm and the show goes from 8 to 10:30pm.

The Urbanspace Union Square Holiday Market, the alfresco, European-style winter market with more than 185 local and national vendors, will return for 2025. This year, guests will be welcomed by sparkling new decorations, a festive holiday tree and murals that set the tone for the season, plus interactive photo booths to capture holiday memories with your friends and family. Expect lots of great shops and excellent food vendors to fuel your shopping spree. New this year, stop by Coco Bred, a Jamaican-born company specializing in coco bread sandwiches with traditional fillings topped with sauces, chutneys, relishes, and crumbles; Rubyzaar Baked, famous for their liquid s'mores hot chocolate topped with a toasted marshmallow; and Wicked Heathens, which will be selling handmade crystal jewelry inspired by sacred geometry and occult symbols. Also new this year is NYC's first cat cafe, Meow Parlour, which sells merchandise and cat-related items including cat beds, scratchers, food bowls, and catnip toys for the cats, with all profits helping cats get adopted. This is the oldest holiday market in the city, so make sure to add it to your holiday tradition list. Starting on November 13, it's open Monday through Friday 11am-9pm; Saturday 10am-9pm and Sunday 11am-1pm. The market will be closed on Thanksgiving and will close for the season after 4pm on Christmas Eve. 

This annual holiday bazaar just outside of Central Park features handmade items from local artisans and snacks from vendors. This year, peep goods from Centuries Clayworks, which sells original framed pieces featuring handmade tiny, brightly colored clay bots in artful arrangements; freshly made crepes from Brooklyn-based company Cuddle Crepes; wooden puzzles made by puzzles lovers, for puzzle lovers from Mosaic Puzzles; and Inti Sänä, a woman-owned silver and stainless steel jewelry made in Queens. Urbanspace Columbus Circle Holiday Market is open December 2-31. Hours are Monday-Friday 11am-8pm; Saturday-Sun 10am-8pm. The market is closed Christmas Day and closes at 4pm on New Year's Eve. 

This Christmas, you can visit Japan without having to leave New York. On Saturday, December 20 and Sunday, 21, niji will be hosting a Japanese Holiday Market at Japan Village in Brooklyn. Discover over 15 talented Japanese artists and makers who will be showcasing their homemade crafts, jewelry, accessories, home goods and more. It's the perfect opportunity to support independent artists as well as find unique, one-of-a-kind holiday gifts for all your loved ones. Peruse through booths selling necklaces, earrings, pottery, handwoven dolls, Japanese calligraphy designs, floral arrangements, wreaths, skincare, stationery and anime/K-pop inspired stickers. Enjoy the festive atmosphere inside the village, connect with artists and experience the culture and charm of Japanese craftsmanship.  The market will be on the second floor of Sunset Park's Japan Village (934 3rd Ave) and will be open from 12pm to 6pm. 

Back for a second season, Urbanspace is bringing the holiday cheer directly to Macy's with a modern day Miracle on 34th Street in the heart of Manhattan. Taking over Broadway and 32nd to 36th Street, you can eat, drink and shop your heart out while exploring Macy's Christmas Windows.  Visit vendors such as Breezy Hill Orchard, coming all the way from the heart of the Hudson Valley, the orchard will be selling apples, baked goods, cider and hard ciders, and Doughnuttery, which will have hot, fresh mini sugar donuts including traditional and quirky flavors. Craft your own holiday gifts at Gabriella Cabellos, a NYC-based custom charm bar where you can create unique pieces designed to your own tastes; and explore watercolors with artist Miriam Meza at her Meza Studios booth with notebooks, stationery and greeting cards. The Macy’s Holiday Square will also debut Herald Haus & Bar, a warm and inviting new lodge for visitors to relax and mingle.  Broadway from 35th to 36th Streets will open on November 8; followed by Broadway from 32nd to 33rd and 34th to 35th Streets opening on December 3. The market will be open Monday through Saturday 11am to 8pm and Sunday 11am to 8pm. The market will also be closed on Christmas Day. 

Perhaps one of the most conveniently located holiday markets is the Grand Central Holiday Fair. Running from November 10 through December 24 at Vanderbilt Hall, the destination will highlight the work of 35 local food and craft vendors and small businesses known for their quality craftsmanship and products made within the state of New York or the U.S. Goods will range from home décor and jewelry to abstract art and perfumes. This year, Uncommon Goods is back with a pop-up at the market with a hand-picked selection of imaginative gifts for kids, handmade jewelry and ornaments, small batch syrups and confections, and creatively designed finds for grillmasters, sports fans, book lovers and more. Also returning is the viral Inciardi Mini-Print Vending Machine with over 30 new prints, three new collections, five machines and other new merchandise.  There will also be a Thanksgiving Market on Wednesday, November 26 from 1pm to 6pm in the Biltmore Room, near Track 42. This one-day event features a festive selection of seasonal treats from the Terminal’s retailers, perfect for any Thanksgiving gathering. The Holiday Fair will operate seven days a week from 10am to 7pm Monday-Saturday; and 11am to 6pm on Sundays. The space will be closed for Thanksgiving and open on Christmas Eve from 10am-6pm.  For more information regarding specific vendors and hours, click here.

A century ago this fall, Robert Rauschenberg was born in Texas. He went on to become a Pop art pioneer and one of the most renowned American artists of this era. Now, museums and galleries across the globe are planning shows that honor the late artist's expansive creativity, spirit of curiosity and commitment to change. For its part, Museum of the City of New York is highlighting the artist's time in New York City. "Robert Rauschenberg’s New York: Pictures from the Real World" explores Rauschenberg’s integration of photography and found objects into his art, reflecting his deep engagement with "the real world" and his complex relationship with urban life in NYC. He was a photographer with a bold creative vision which was essential to his art making, and this exhibition celebrates that.  The show is organized into three sections—Early Photographs, In + Out City Limits, and Photography in Painting—tracing the evolution of Rauschenberg’s photographic practice and its interplay with painting, sculpture, and assemblage. In addition, the exhibition presents a selection of works created from 1963 to 1994 that combine Rauschenberg's NYC photographs with images taken around the world, illustrating how he re-contextualized his art through his creative process.  Tickets are on sale now, priced at $23 for adults, $18 for seniors, $14 for students and free for members and those under 18. Pay what you can is available for NYC residents; Wednesdays are free for everyone when you buy tickets

Two long-term collaborators (and short-haired lesbians) are teaming up together for the perfect sketch show (ironicallly titled) "Boy Crazy." Hosts Liv Drury and Oly Lewittes will present a lineup of sharp, chaotic sketches written by the pair, featuring guests from New York's "best" and "brightest" comedians. The sketch show features Liv Drury, Orly Lewittes, Naomi Rubin, and Justin Kuhn and is directed by Devin O' Neill and Gus Mahoney. Join in on the fun on November 15 at the Upright Citizens Brigade Theatre. In-person tickets are $15 and livestream tickets are $10. 

Connect with artists in-person and explore hundreds of original artworks across various media including painting, photography, sculpture, immersive installations, mixed media, murals and more. The Other Art Fair is all about showcasing independent artists, and it's hosting its latest event at ZeroSpace in Brooklyn from November 6-9. Expect to see the work of more than 130 independent and emerging artists from across the globe and local to NYC, each hand-picked by a committee of local art world experts. Visitors can meet artists in person and discover thousands of original artworks and limited-edition prints across various media.  Also on the schedule over the weekend: interactive installations from Atelier Sisu and Hypersonic [Art & Design] Studio and immersive experiences, including a Met Cloisters tapestry-portrait session. The fair will also feature a curated selection of food and beverage options throughout the weekend.  View the full artist list and more details about the event here. 

If you're equal parts sugar fiend and architecture junkie, we may have just found your dream holiday destination. The Gingerbread City is bringing its winter magic and sweetness back to the Seaport for a free display from December 5–28 at 19 Fulton Street for a series of hands-on workshops. You can learn how to make your own gingerbread creations at workshops hosted by the pros. Alongside the workshops, there's a mini gingerbread village made by New York-based architects, engineers and designers, so you know these creations are going to be immaculate. Expect to see city parks, brownstones and skyscrapers created out of cookies, icing and candy.  RECOMMENDED: Best Christmas things to do in NYC The gingerbread display incorporates not only city structures, but also uses elements like water, snow and ice to create winter wonderland scenes. You can see miniature penguins crossing over bridges onto chunks of ice and frozen waterfalls running through villages. Snowmen, gummy bears and reindeer hanging out in front of lit-up storefronts. A mini Santa even hangs off a gingerbread skyscraper.  Created by London's Museum of Architecture (MoA), The Gingerbread City brings an imaginative architectural twist to the classic gingerbread house—sparking conversations about how we live, design and build our cities. Now in its ninth year in London and second year in New York, the pop-up experience is designed to encourage all ages to see architecture and design in a new (and delicious) way. 

This holiday season, head 45 minutes north of Grand Central and be transported to a winter wonderland at Mount Vernon's Christmas in America at American Christmas HQ, a 12,000 square feet store full of holiday décor, family-friendly magic and delight. With experience as a massive Christmas store, the folks here know how to put on an epic holiday display. This year's walk-through experience promises giant nutcrackers, Santas, reindeer, lush garlands, thousands of twinkling lights, towering trees, sparkling wreaths and walls of ornaments—it's not only fun to look it, it also makes for beautiful photos. In years past, the experience was called Holiday Lane, and it charged an admission fee, but this year's newly named event is totally free to attend.  RECOMMENDED: The best Christmas markets in NYC Santa, of course, will be making an appearance on weekends throughout the season and taking photos in exchange for donations of any amount.  After you've walked through and snapped your photos, you might just be inspired to do a little holiday shopping. American Christmas HQ is known as the largest Christmas shop in Westchester with over 3,000 holiday items available. Expect to see classic Christmas trees, wreaths and garlands in all different sizes; shatterproof and glass ornaments including Polish glass and custom designs; outdoor decorations, tabletop displays, lights, stars and toppers; and exclusive collectible brands including Ditz Design, Mark Roberts, Old World Christmas, Kurt

Whether you're having NYC Marathon FOMO, trying to get back into running or have never run a day in your life, the Brooklyn Bridge Parkrun invites you to join NYC's newest addition to running culture—and it's completely free.  Parkrun is a weekly community event where people of all ages and abilities are invited to walk, jog, run or volunteer in a 5K every Saturday morning in Brooklyn Bridge Park. The event is designed to be a positive, community-focused event that is welcoming for all. To join, you register online to receive a unique barcode used to track, time and record your participation and results, even though it's not a formal race. The group also meets for a post-event coffee and snack catch-up at the Breads Bakery near Brooklyn's Pier 1.  RECOMMENDED: The NYC Marathon 2025 guide Since its official launch in NYC last month, Parkrun has hosted weekly 5K events every Saturday at Brooklyn Bridge Park, welcoming over 2,000 participants. But this event isn't exclusive to only NYC residents. Parkrun is actually a worldwide, global event, with its first U.S. event launching in Michigan back in 2012. It was first created in the UK and its popularity has stretched all the way to Japan, South Africa and Australia, with 3,000 local events happening every weekend across the world.  Photo: Courtesy of Parkrun Not only is this an easy way to meet and connect with your neighbors, but it's a great way to hold yourself accountable if you've been trying to start a new running habit.

If you find yourself quoting phrases like "I feel God in this Chili's tonight" or "I'm not superstitious but I am a little stitious," you'll want to check out The Paley Center's newest museum exhibit: "Celebrating the Ultimate Workplace Comedy: From The Office to The Paper," dedicated to one of the most beloved sitcoms of the 21st century.  To celebrate 20 years of the groundbreaking, Emmy Award-winning show, all are invited to immerse themselves in the universe of The Office where you can see rare costumes and original props from the iconic series. Yes, there's even an opportunity to sit at Michael Scott's desk and take your own "world's greatest boss" photo. The exhibit is on view through November 16. RECOMMENDED: The best museum exhibitions in NYC right now Photo: Courtesy of The Paley Center The museum exhibition is spread out season by season, with photos, videos and memorable quotes on display sure to make you laugh out loud again. Expect to see real artifacts like Michael Scott's office suit, Meredith Palmer's "Casual Friday" dress, Dwight Schrute’s wedding suit and employee of the month awards, Pam Beesley's copy of the "Threat Level: Midnight" screenplay and even genuine Dunder Mifflin paper. Plus, you can get a special behind-the-scenes look at Peacock's new show The Paper, which premiered in September and was just renewed for a season two. Set inside the same universe as The Office, the new mockumentary sitcom follows a group of reporters working for a strugglin

In 2001, artist Kip Fulbeck began traveling the country photographing multiracial people of all ages and walks of life. They were photographed from the chest up, with no clothes, jewelry, hats or makeup on. And they were asked to write their answer to one big question: "What are you?" After photographing more than 1,200 people, the project culminated in the landmark book and exhibition Kip Fulbeck: Part Asian, 100% Hapa which toured throughout the U.S. Now, over two decades later, the new exhibition "Hapa.me — 25 years of the Hapa Project" on view at New York City's Museum of Chinese in America (MOCA) revisits some of the original subjects, capturing how they look now and sharing their current answers to Fulbeck's original question. The new project also marks six decades since the U.S. Supreme Court overturned Loving v. Virginia—a civil rights decision which invalidated laws prohibiting interracial marriage. RECOMMENDED: The best museum exhibitions in NYC right now The Lower Manhattan museum exhibition features 30 portraits and responses of local subjects, installed amidst a hand-painted mural that captures the beauty of being mixed. Inside the exhibition is a central reading table with the "Hapa.me" artist's books where visitors can explore a fuller archive of the project. The MOCA was one of the first museums to show the Hapa Project and it has remained on display as part of their permanent exhibition, which explores 200 years of the experience of Chinese in America.   I

If the popularity of certain podcasts and documentaries is any indication, Americans are fascinated by learning about cults. A new exhibit at the Museum of Sex New York seizes on that topic with its exploration of nonconforming, experimental lifestyles and the marks they've left on our society.  From now until April 12, 2026, experience history and culture through the lens of American cults and communes at "Utopia: Three Centuries of Sexuality in American Cults and Communes." The two-story show features more than 300 artworks, photographs, films, records, garments and rare artifacts from 20 historical intentional communities.  RECOMMENDED: The best museum exhibitions in NYC right now Curated by Jodi Willie—known for critically acclaimed films, documentaries and award-winning books—this groundbreaking exhibition traces how alternative spiritual communities across the United States have influenced and reimagined intimacy, gender and sexuality over the past several hundred years.  Both scholarly and immersive, the collection shows how mainstream norms were challenged by the art, sexuality and rituals formed in these communities. In doing so, they offered Americans alternative models of intimacy and belonging to identify with.  "Utopia" reframes the history of American spiritual subcultures through the lens of desire, intimacy and creative reinvention among the following communities, including: Shakers, Oneida Community, The Source Family, Church of All Worlds, Cockettes, Kerist

For those who have long romanticized the floating city of Venice, the Brooklyn Museum's new exhibit will only stoke those desires. Featuring a rare reunion of Claude Monet's iconic Venetian paintings, visitors are encouraged to "travel" to this dreamy destination and immerse themselves in art inspired by the city's timeless beauty.  "Monet and Venice" engages audiences through multi-sensory elements, including an original symphonic score inspired by Monet's Venice paintings by the Brooklyn Museum's composer in residence, Niles Luther. The collection marks New York's largest museum show dedicated to Monet in over 25 years, featuring 100 artworks, books and memorabilia, including 19 of Monet's paintings of Venice. It's the first dedicated exploration of these pieces since their debut in 1912. RECOMMENDED: The best museum exhibitions in NYC right now When Claude Monet first visited the Italian city of Venice in 1908, he remarked the city was "too beautiful to be painted." Still, he set on his journey of capturing the city's interplay of land and sea.  Photo: Courtesy of The Brooklyn Museum As you enter the exhibit, you're immersed into Venice almost immediately with film and clips from the city, along with the sound of water lapping against boats. The multi-sensory elements feel transportative, letting you experience Venice's atmosphere first hand. This part of the show is produced by Brooklyn-based design and tech studio Potion, featuring film by Venice-based Joan Porcel St

In the year 2025, how we dress is still the highest form of free self expression—and the role that gender plays in fashion has broken norms, especially in the last decade. In a new exhibit from The Museum at Fashion Institute of Technology, the road to this gender fluid fashion is examined, beginning in the 1900s.  Explore body image, dreams, desires, sexuality and the unconscious in almost 100 items of dress as part of the new, free exhibition "Dress, Dreams and Desire: Fashion and Psychoanalysis" on view through January 4, 2026. This work explores the history of designers such as Azzedine Alaia, Gabrielle "Coco" Chanel, Willy Chavarria, Bella Freud, John Galliano for Christian Dior, Vivienne Westwood, Gianna and Donatella Versace, Alexander McQueen and more.  RECOMMENDED: The best museum exhibitions in NYC right now Organized both chronologically and thematically, the museum begins by tracing the historical relationship between fashion and the lifelong process of developing a self-image. The exhibition digs into Jacques Lacan's theory of the mirror stage and Didier Anzieu's concept of the skin ego, or a sense of self formed through sensations on the skin. Another major theme is our collective movement toward nonbinary and gender-fluid ideas and the ability to be open in society.  Photo by Casper Kofi, courtesy Viktor & Rolf For example, as you go through the exhibit, you can see there are no clear lines between what is "masculine" or "feminine" in these dresses. Large sp

Dancing penguins, trippy flamingos and colorful blocks make up just some of the surrealist scenes in ARTECHOUSE's new exhibit. Titled "SUBMERGE: Beyond the Render," this immersive art experience in Chelsea showcases surreal landscapes, digital worlds and trippy dream-like sequences accompanied by house music from Zedd.  The Fall 2025 show is part of ARTECHOUSE's on-going SUBMERGE series, where the former Chelsea Market boiler room space offers artists a chance to experiment with new aesthetics and technology in immersive storytelling, while letting audiences "submerge" themselves in the art. The exhibition features work from today's leading 3D artists in collaboration with Render Network Foundation. RECOMMENDED: Incredible immersive experiences to do in NYC right now When you visit, start off upstairs and view the exhibition from above while sipping on special SUBMERGE-themed cocktails from the XR bar. Try the Soundwave Drop (brandy champagne with a tuft of cotton candy on top) or a Data Stream (a matcha cocktail with strawberry foam).  Once you get downstairs into the main room, you'll walk into what feels almost like a video game—trek through a forest of fluorescent purples and pinks while a beaming blue light rages in the distance. Float amongst hundreds of colorful block pieces and get introduced to characters reminiscent of Wii's old "Mii" games. Most of the exhibition doesn't correlate—each segment brings its own flair—but it flows seamlessly, like when dancing pengui

*NAILCON has been officially postponed until 2026 This online beauty brand is officially going offline. For the first time ever, the digital platform NAILCON is celebrating nail culture with a two-day immersive event on October 18 and 19 in NYC's Meatpacking District.  In celebration of nail art consumers, beauty professionals and creators, NAILCON 2025 will host a number of events related to the world of nails including panels, live demos, musical performances, masterclasses and interactive experiences—and it's open to all.  RECOMMENDED: The best spas in NYC to visit for some R&R Since its founding in 2019, NAILCON has built a loyal digital audience of over 330,000 beauty lovers, pros and brands. The brand's goal has been to create a community that celebrates nails and consciously addresses social issues and community causes, while educating and informing those who appreciate the beauty of nails and the art's culturally-based history. "I strive to highlight women and artists alike who respect the art as well as the craft; to always speak of nails in a positive and accepting light," NAILCON founder Jazmin Celine Greshman wrote on the website. She also credits her motivation in creating NAILCON: making nail culture acceptable and celebrated, even in professional work environments.  View this post on Instagram A post shared by Nailcon™️ (@nailcon) This first live festival marks a new chapter for the brand, poised to become a defining event for t

Dear parents and families, mark your calendars—we already have plans for you for next summer. The beloved PBS KIDS series Daniel Tiger's Neighborhood is coming to life in zoos across the country starting at the Bronx Zoo in summer 2026.  The immersive traveling exhibit, "Daniel Tiger's Grr-ific Day with You," combines the values and life lessons of Daniel Tiger's Neighborhood with the mission of zoos to educate young visitors in playful ways, inspiring wildlife advocacy, curiosity and reflection.   RECOMMENDED: The best things to do with kids in NYC As families journey through the bilingual English-Spanish experience, they will enjoy activities inspired by the show—Daniel Tiger's signature strategies to introduce life lessons are paired with wildlife exploration. Participants can learn about animals through interactive play and enjoy photo opportunities with Daniel and his friends.  "Daniel Tiger brings a message of imagination, learning and discovery that aligns beautifully with our mission and we're thrilled to be where this new adventure begins," Meghann Kelley-DiSalvo, the Wildlife Conservation Society's Director of Marketing said in a statement.  Photograph: Courtesy of Fred Rogers Productions The experience includes a live show featuring Daniel and Katerina Kittycat as they explore habitats around the world. Guests can also participate in character meet-and-greets and purchase Daniel Tiger merchandise. The event is made possible through a partnership between the edu

For those of us who spent our teen years swathed in Victoria Secret Pink body sprays and Bath & Body Works mists, finding a grown-up perfume can be intimidating. But Asia Grant, an award-winning perfumer and founder of Scent Social Club, has made it her mission to make the process simple and seamless—and even fun.  Whether you're a perfume connoisseur or a total novice, "The Nolita Perfume Tour" invites all scent-seekers on a two-hour long guided experience through niche perfume stores in Manhattan. Included in the tours is a perfume shopping map of New York, a perfume guide with personalized recommendations, free samples and exclusive in-store discounts. Each tour has a maximum of around eight people, so you're getting a personal experience. Visit perfume boutiques like Fueguia 1833 and Commodity—and leave with a new scent hand picked just for you. RECOMMENDED: The best perfume stores in NYC Grant considers herself a certified scent sommelier, who guarantees she will find you a niche, sophisticated perfume or cologne you love. And she has the credentials to prove it—she co-owns her own perfume and beauty brand, Redoux, which she started with a friend after graduating college in 2019. She's also a prominent and reoccurring figure in the TikTok perfume community, known for her reviews of perfumes and in-depth analysis of certain scents. But Grant believes her gift of scent comes from her synesthesia—a neurological condition that allows her to hear, see and even taste smells.