Jennifer Picht

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.

Face it—everything is expensive in NYC. So after you take care of rent, bills and all your other expenses, how are you going to maintain your fashion game? Finding out where to shop for cheap clothes in New York City isn't just a want, it's a need. In a city known for high-end boutiques and world-class fashion labels, you can still find affordable clothing in NYC while avoiding fast-fashion at the plethora of shops offering inexpensive but well-made attire in all styles. Between many vintage and thrift stores, sample sales and outlet stores, you can find clothes that are sure to fit your budget and look great, too.  RECOMMENDED: Full guide to shopping in NYC

Don’t let the haters tell you otherwise—New York actually smells great and the best perfume stores in NYC are a big reason why. Just as you color your hair between seasons, there is no better time to swap out that tired body mist you’ve been spritzing every morning for a scent that is fresh, new and special to you. It seems like a new designer fragrance comes out every week, but if you’re looking for a signature scent that you won’t smell on everyone else, these perfume shops offer lesser-known and exclusive options. From retailers that offer cool classes where you can customize your own aroma to stores that source and sell bottles from around the globe, you definitely won’t find these aromatic options in any given department store. RECOMMENDED: Full guide to shopping in NYC

New Yorkers love yoga. The inner peace, the moment of controlled movement and self-care makes hustling and living in this bustling city doable. Plus, there are so many indoor spots to practice, so it’s easy to find a spot to get your relaxation on. But one of our favorite things is when instructors take their classes to the great outdoors, even here in NYC.  We’ve seen classes sprout up in leafy spots like Prospect Park, Central Park and Astoria Park, on streets, on rooftops and even on aircraft carriers (on board the Intrepid). Neighborhood landmarks, including the Meatpacking District, Union Square and Riverside Park have held their own outdoor yoga classes as well. For those looking to work up a serious sweat, head to our roundup of best gyms and fitness centers, but if you're more into breathing deeply in a beautiful space and finding some inner peace, check out our picks of the best fresh air yoga sessions below. Pack a mat, grab the sunscreen, and we'll see you on the grass! RECOMMENDED: Full guide to things to do outside in NYC

Some of the best (and, graciously, cheapest) clothing stores in NYC happen to be vintage stores. Personally, we think shopping vintage is always a good idea. For one, shopping secondhand helps the planet by reducing excess waste, but it also allows you to scoop up unique duds no one else has. Can’t afford $400 Chanel pumps or high-end retro clothes? No biggie: New York has a ton of economical options to make your wardrome dreams come to true. After making a profit by selling any outdated duds at thrift stores or consignment shops , go back to these prime vintage stores, snag a few unique throwbacks and style an outfit that will make you feel like a million bucks (but for way less). RECOMMENDED: Full guide to shopping in NYC

There are plenty of reasons why New York is the greatest city in the world and Gotham’s kick-ass retail scene is totally one of them. And while, yes, it is very convenient that some of the best shops in NYC come equipped with coffeeshops, serve complimentary booze or provide personal-shopping assistance, one of our favorite things to do when shopping in New York is to skip the chain stores and head straight to those off-the-wall boutiques and gift shops selling kooky merchandise and vintage curiosities. So if you're looking to fly your freak flag, find that magical piece of merch, or just looking for an out-of-the-norm shopping experience—welcome. RECOMMENDED: Full guide to shopping in NYC

Cheap is relative and what was considered realistically inexpensive for a simple snip even five years ago now feels like pure fantasy. But if you’re ready to chop your mop without breaking the bank, there are still plenty of top-notch barbershops and hair salons in NYC where you can score a great under-$100 haircut. Yes, it’s even possible to upgrade your mane—including a thorough scrub at the washing station and a luxurious blow dry that will showcase your newly snipped style perfectly—for less than fifty bucks. To help, we’ve mapped out the best hair salons for cheap haircuts from Manhattan to Brooklyn and Queens where you can get a cut or color without blowing your whole beauty budget. Now, go get fabulous, Gothamites! RECOMMENDED: Full guide to the best hair salons in NYC

School will be out for the summer before you know it, so it’s time to start making plans for the summer. How will you keep the kids entertained? There are plenty of playgrounds, parks and outdoor activities to keep them off the couch and active, but there’s nothing like a summer camp to provide enriching, entertaining experiences. Summer camps in NYC range from academic to athletic to just plain fun, not to mention sleepaway camps that give you a little more room to breathe. Whether you’ve got an animal lover, an outdoor enthusiast, a budding scientist or a sporty type, there’s a summer camp offering just the right schedule of opportunities. And if you want to get in on the fun, check out the best family camp programs in the city.

Is it really possible to impress your latest love interest (or longtime flame) without breaking the bank? While you might have to save up for a big date at one of the best restaurants in the city, there are plenty of cheap date ideas in NYC that are fun, romantic and inexpensive. From free museum days and happy hours to cheap gigs and budget-friendly eats, these date ideas will keep both your wallet and your boo happy. Whether your sweetie enjoys a romantic stroll through the park, live music, a great cocktail or tasty street food, these cheap ideas are sure to impress. If all goes well, you can step it up with an affordable couples massage or a cheap romantic getaway. You don’t need to be rolling in it to take someone on an amazing date — you just have to think outside the box and get a little creative. So try one of these cheap date ideas and watch as the sparks fly. We've estimated the pricing for each one; just remember to tip your servers well and add in the cost of transporation. Happy dating!  RECOMMENDED: Best free things to do in NYC

Winter might not be the most romantic time of the year in New York, but many singles find their match during this time when snuggling and staying warm is a priority. From a date at a restaurant or bar with a fireplace to staying warm inside a top museum to sharing spills and giggles while ice skating, these winter date ideas are bound to take your romance well into the spring if not further. NYC has a knack for adapting, so you’ll find that rooftop bars haul out the heaters or even install igloos. Outdoor venues get creative with yurts, hot tubs and more. While you can invite your date to stay inside, order delivery and binge watch the latest must-see shows, step it up and choose one of these date ideas that are well suited for winter. If you play your cards right, you and your sweetie can eventually plan a winter getaway to stoke the flames of romance and keep the chill away. RECOMMENDED: Full guide to the best things to do in the winter in NYC

No matter where you are or where you work in New York, you’re probably stressed out. As great as our fair city is — with so many amazing things to do, fabulous restaurants and top-notch bars — it’s hard to find time to chill out. Taking a weekend getaway or relaxing on a nearby beach are good ways to relax, but often we need serenity NOW (and let’s face it: sometimes planning that beach trip or weekend getaway can lead to even more stress!). A relaxing spa treatment can be just the thing for a quick fix. Problem is, most of us can’t afford the luxurious spas that promise instant bliss. Fortunately there are a number of spots for affordable spa treatments in NYC. Whether it’s a facial, a massage, a mani-pedi or a body scrub, one to two hours at a spa will give you the re-set you need. You’ll feel refreshed and glowing in no time. When was the last time you treated yourself? We think now is the time to get that affordable spa treatment. If you’re looking for more affordable ways to unwind, take a calming stroll through one of New York’s parks, or get a scoop of sweet, refreshing ice cream and tune out for a while before getting back to the hustle and bustle. RECOMMENDED: Find more spas in NYC

It’s hard to top NYC during the holiday season. It’s the most wonderful time of the year, and the city sparkles with seasonal cheer. From the Rockefeller Center Christmas tree to spectacular holiday light displays and festive holiday markets, there’s no shortage of holiday merriment in the city. You can find a perfect tree or take a spin on an ice skating rink, then grab a pic with Santa. If all this joy makes you want to burst into song, you’re in luck. There are plenty of opportunities to sing Christmas carols in NYC with other merry revelers. Join in one of these singalongs and you can carol at the top of your lungs, even if you don’t know all the words to O Tannenbaum or sing a little off key. After a few rounds of Rudolph the Red Nosed Reindeer and Silent Night, warm up with a steaming mug of hot chocolate and you’ll be merry and bright throughout the season.

This retailer’s multiple weekend run at various locations allows any impatient DIYers to grab creative handmade presents from more than 50 talented fashion, beauty and lifestyle crafters for everyone on your list or, hell, yourself. In the past, patrons have gone home with free goody bags of products, coupons and surprises from the vendors and sponsors. During certain weekends, folks can enjoy cocktails and pose for selfies in the holiday photo booth while they shop. 

New Yorkers will gladly cough up change for great food, but when there's a chance to snag excellent grub for the price of nada, we pounce! Make sure to hit Grand Central’s “Taste of Grand Central Market.” The foodie heaven (located between Graybar Building and the 4/5/6 subway lines) serves a ton of cheap bites from merchants such as Ceriello Fine Foods, Eli Zabar’s Bread & Pastry, Eli Zabar’s Farm to Table, Oren’s Daily Roast, Pescatore Seafood Co., Sushi by Pescatore, Murray’s Cheese and more.The tastings last for an hour (2pm to 3pm) every Tuesday in June. The price will run you $2. So, if you’re in dire need of a snack during your commute, this is the spot to hit! While we have you, make sure to check our list of 10 fascinating secrets about Grand Central.

In case you’re already missing the Winter Village at Bryant Park, fret not: A spring iteration is coming to the midtown green space this May called Makers Market. Starting the weekend of May 10, market thrower Urbanspace will have 80 local sellers and creators stationed around the Bryant Park Fountain and Library Terraces. Vendors run the gamut from artists selling original works to vintage retailers, crafters of small handmade goods, fashion designers and more. Some of the shopping highlights include temporary tattoo merchant Annie Draws Stuff, French jeweler Virginie Millefiori, collage artists Black Lamp BK and tiny, wearable terrarium maker With Roots. After peeping the shops, refuel at the various food and beverage kiosks throughout the market including Wowfulls, Renegade Lemonade and other fun offerings. Unlike the Winter Village, this outdoor bazaar is only held during select weekends. See the dates below and get pumped for all the marvelous things to do outside during the warm-weather season in NYC. Makers Market in Bryant Park is on May 10–12, May 17–10 and May 31–Jun 2. The hours are Friday and Saturday 10am–8pm and Sunday from 11am–7pm.

Everything you need to know about visiting the Vessel (20 Hudson Yards, New York, NY 10001).  New York’s ever-changing skyline has acquired another sky-high attraction for Gothamites to climb: Vessel. The 60-ton sculpture, located at sleek cultural destination Hudson Yards, resembles a honeycomb, although some New Yorkers say it looks like a waste can. Others say the larger-than-life art installation designed by British architect Thomas Heatherwick is New York’s version of the Eiffel Tour. As for what we say? It looks like a good excuse to exercise and Instagram. We climbed the spiral staircase made up of 154 interconnecting staircases, almost 2,500 individual steps and 80 landings, and while the current sight of construction is less than ideal (the attraction just opened to the public on March 15), the various outlook points offer sweeping views of the Hudson River that will appear mighty dreamy at sunset.   Know before you go Visiting and climbing Hudson Yards’ new jungle gym is free, but you must reserve a time slot and get tickets in advance. At the moment, tickets for the next two weeks are fully reserved, but every morning at 8am, additional same-day tickets are up for grabs. Vessel does have an elevator and is handicap accessible. While Vessel, Snark Park and New York’s luxe shopping mall called The Shops and Restaurants at Hudson Yards are patron-ready, some of the area’s sights are still in development. The Shed (a multimedia cultural center) opens April 5, 201

It just doesn’t feel like home without the pleasant aroma from your NEST candle lingering in the air. Chances are you scored your wick online or at one of the lifestyle fragrance brand’s legendary sales in collaboration with 260 Sample Sale. But now, New Yorkers have an official location where they can not only smell but test all the NEST artifacts they desire. The first-ever NEST flagship store opened in the prime shopping mecca of Soho just in time for you to find your new spring scent. Easily navigate your way through the 1,140-square-foot space, which is decked out to resemble a magical European garden and houses the brand’s entire portfolio of Home, Fine Fragrance and and Bodycare Collection inside the space. The store’s interior walls were custom-made with three-dimensional flora embellishments by botanical artists Mrs. Delany and Ernst Haeckel. And much like the fragrances themselves, entering the shop feels as if you’ve been transported to another realm with gimmicks (i.e. the upside down garden fixture ascending from the ceiling) that tickle your sense of wonder and imagination. From liquid soaps and hand lotions to lip balms made with SPF 15 and candles that can burn for up to 350 hours, there is plenty to sniff and discover. And we’d be shocked if you left without finding a product you weren’t itching to wear, burn or diffuse immediately.

If Stefon from Saturday Night Live had recommended fitness centers instead of nightclubs, he surely would have raved about this expansive facility overlooking the Hudson River. Located on the far West Side, this place has everything: over 120 group classes every week, personal training, cardio and strength equipment, a lap pool…we could continue but you could probably complete an entire workout by the time we finished listing the possibilities. Chelsea Piers Fitness also opened a second location at 265 Schermerhorn Street in Downtown Brooklyn. All-access memberships available. Price: Various prices. 

A good pair of jeans are essential to any wardrobe, and this heritage brand has been making butts look mighty fine in a pair of baby, dark or washed blues since 1873. Levi’s® continues to make history—the company recently opened its largest flagship store in the epicenter of capitalism: Times Square. The new and improved, multi-level TS location is all about customization. (A crucial customer offering that has helped the brand achieve  significant growth over the past few years.) Hawking every fit, length and style of jeans and denim jackets imaginable, you can add extra flair to your purchase at the Tailor Shop. Local New York artists Cey Adams, Futura, 13thwitness, Janette Beckman and Happy Noise are collaborating with the brand to offer exclusive personalizations in the form of decals, script, patches and bedazzling. Another perk when you shop at this outpost is that you’re surrounded by the largest assortment of Levi’s® products possible, including Levi’s® Red Tab, Levi’s® Authorized Vintage, Levi’s® Made & Crafted®, Levi’s® Vintage Clothing, kids & accessories, and special NYC store exclusives.

Kings Theatre transforms into a whimsical dreamland as 20 top acrobats and singers get into the holiday spirit. Dressed as gingerbread men and ornaments that dance, reindeer that fly through the air and penguins that balance on balls, the performers offer over-the-top Vegas glitz right here in NYC.

Candytopia, an extremely visual, Wonka-inspired playground for kiddos and grownups is another Instagram-oriented experience at which ticket holders may wander through more than a dozen candy-coated rooms that are partially assembled using candy floss, taffy and more confectionery bliss. If you get peckish while exploring the sugary paradise, there are various gummies, cotton candy, chocolate-covered pretzels and more for you to nibble on. As for the spaces themselves, there's a marshmallow pit you can jump in as well as a confetti fart explosion from a candy pig with wings. (No, we're not making this up.) It's here until November 15th.

Beneath the Brooklyn Heights bistro Chez Moi, sits this much-less-quaint, Marie Antoinette–inspired speakeasy designed after the her private chambers at the Château de Versailles. While the service (20 minutes to get a drink) is far from the royal treatment, Le Boudoir makes up for those faux pas with historical thrills, channeling its audacious queen with silver-plated chalices, neoclassical paintings and even a doorknob lifted from Marie’s actual bedroom. Created by Franky Marshall (the Dead Rabbit), cocktails err on the side of excessive, but what else would you expect? Too-rich sips include the Dauphin, which has an almond- and coconut-milk base shot with absinthe and chili liqueur. It’s liquid dessert, served chilled and wedged inside a bowl of ice the pebbled cubes of which have a nasty habit of flying everywhere. A refreshing reprieve comes courtesy the Jardin Royale, which softens blanco tequila, La Quintinye extra dry vermouth and pamplemousse liqueur with lavender soda. The dimly lit, 55-seat watering hole succeeds as a speakeasy because you actually feel as if you’re hiding. The entrance to the intimate lounge is disguised by a bookshelf that is a replica of one from the late queen’s library. (Tip: Don’t try to exit the same way you walked in; the owners might threaten you with the guillotine—and not the cocktail version.)Lavished in plush red-velvet banquettes, gilded mirrors and castle-like sconces, the opulent parlor feels authentic. In fact, if Marie herself we

Unlike a bar tour, this crawl won't leave you with a pounding headache the next morning. Shop owner Nicole Panettieri of Brass Owl organizes this annual small business event during which shoppers can nab discounts and other perks at 16 chic boutiques. Hit five stores and you'll get a chance to win a $450 gift card prize; shop at eight and you'll receive a free swag bag with cool stuff from participating businesses and other Astoria hotspots like Salt & Bone, Singelcut and Fresco's Cantina.

Wander the stacks at this atmospheric literary shop hawking a well-curated mix of new and recommended titles. The space also hosts literary readings.

With so many streets in New York chock-full of wonderful restaurants, bars and historic attractions, we’re making it easier for you to navigate them all by highlighting the best bits on every block. Here are the top three spots you must check out on 23rd Avenue in Astoria. RECOMMENDED: Full Astoria, Queens neighborhood guide 23rd Avenue, Astoria Astoria has always had its fair share of charm, but within the past few years, the neighborhood has enhanced its cool-factor by becoming one of the trendiest nabes. Fans of gyros and tzatziki should flock to the area for its Hellenic eateries. After grabbing a bite, sip hot cocktails at a wood-and-brick haunt with a cozy enclosed area for lovebirds. Then stumble into what is probably Astoria’s best-kept secret: an old-school jazz bar that checks all the boxes. Eat here ZorbasDine at one of the more authentic Greek restaurants in town for well-cooked kebabs and the freshest feta you’ve ever tasted. 29-05 23rd Ave (718-956-7266, zorbasnyc.com) Drink here The BonnieSearching for the perfect date-night spot? Plow through this romantic joint’s artisanal cocktail list with cold-weather sips like mulled apple cider. 29-12 23rd Ave (718-274-2105, thebonnie.com) Do this The LetLove InnThis kick-ass jazz bar has a warm atmosphere and incredible live music (but no cover!). Get funky with the Subtonic Three on Tuesdays at 9pm. 27-20 23rd Ave (718-777-5683, letloveinn.com)

Labor Day weekend is the unofficial end of summer in New York, and while signs of fall’s presence are scarce given these sweltering temperatures we're currently experiencing, they are, indeed, there. Pumpkin spice is back, and tickets are now on sale for another pumpkin-packed happening: The Great Jack O’Lantern Blaze in Hudson Valley. RECOMMENDED: Full guide to the Great Jack O’Lantern Blaze The annual event is one of the tristate area's most popular Halloween attractions, and if you’ve seen our roundup of gourdeous photos, it’s easy to see why. It's a fall-lover's paradise featuring more than 7,000 intricately carved jack o'lanterns positioned into different shapes such as the Headless Horseman, flying ghosts and dinosaurs that shine along the riverside near Van Cortlandt Manor. The experience is more than a walk-through art exhibit. Before entering the jack o'lantern maze, there are food tents selling autumnal treats like hot cider, apple doughnuts, pumpkin beer and more. There's also a mini-market selling Halloween paraphernalia. This is one of the best fall day trips from NYC, and if you haven’t secured your tickets yet, do so right now as they’re officially up for grabs. The Great Jack O’Lantern Blaze is on-view for select dates during the week and on weekends. This year's event dates are September 28–November 24. Get your tickets here. It's very easy to get to the Blaze, too. Take the Metro-North Hudson Line from Grand Central Terminal to Croton-Harmon station (under

There are many ways art can live and dominate in the digital age. And we do mean dominate, as LUMA Projection Arts Festival is taking over the entire downtown are of Binghamton, New York. Now celebrating four years, LUMA is a tech-savvy art show that uses historic city buildings as its canvas. Massive 3D projections are displayed on the city’s landmarks, and different spots around town host a range of experiences including an Orchestral Light Show and other affiliated exhibitions. Think of it as a giant, virtual outdoor art gallery! FYI: LUMA is the only visual art festival in the country with a focus on projection mapping, which is just a fancy term for technology that is used to turn random objects into a display for video projection. Sounds pretty trippy, right? Oh, it is. And speaking of trips, the event is totally worth making one. Why? For starters, most of the event is free. Just a three-hour car ride or four-hour train ride away from Manhattan, this year’s three-day fête promises 3D computer animation, live music, moving lights and guest speakers in addition to events like Afterglow—a late-night party for the LGBT community. Other activations include Opera and Beer, a place where you can drink brews and enjoy live performances by the Tri-Cities Opera crew. And then there’s the ticketed portion of the event called "Transfiguració de la nau," an immersive experience that occupies a historic church in Binghampton. The hypnotic light show and orchestra is set to music

We can give you a lengthy list of reasons to visit Refinery29’s fourth annual 29Rooms, but the only one that matters is this: Go to be inspired. It's more than just a selfie palace (though there are many opportunities to take photos). In our opinion, shelling out $40 for the perfect profile picture shouldn't be your main motive to attend. The biggest draw is not the opportunity to experience, but to create culturally-relevant art. Through interactive rooms offering on-site drawing, crafting and artist tutorials, you can let your imagination wander as if you were a kid again. RECOMMENDED: Full guide to 29Rooms 2018 To break down this year's event, we'll start with the obvious: There are 29 activations (they're not all necessarily "rooms") ranging from extremely hands-on spaces to more reflective and thought-provoking ones. There's no right or wrong way to explore the playhouse. As R29 puts it: The space is meant to be "like speed dating for ideas and art." Some of the installations are even meant to be phone-free. R29's Co-Founder and Creative Director Piera Gelardi says, "We haven't noted which rooms are not intended for phones. Of course, it’s a judgement-free space. But we want people to be present, live in the moment and to reconnect with themselves." You may find yourself forgetting to pull out your phone entirely when you're so busy having a blast in rooms like "Inner Beauty Ball," co-created by Bushwick entertainment hub House of Yes. It's a nightclub filled with dra

Holy cannoli! One of the best street fairs in NYC—the Feast of San Gennaro—is set to return this Thursday, September 13. Out-of-towners and locals alike are getting pretty stoked for the 92-year-old tradition as the annual event is one of the tourist draws in Little Italy that are actually good. RECOMMENDED: Full guide to the Feast of San Gennaro 2018 The 11-day salute to the patron saint of Naples usually draws more than one million people. Apart from witnessing the traditional religious processions, visitors pile in to take part in one of the best parts of Italian culture: The food. However, there’s a lot more to the fest than just eating and drinking. From contests and live entertainment to this year’s special guests, read on for the full Feast of San Gennaro schedule. Festival dates: September 13–23 Location: Mulberry Street, Little Italy Entertainment stages: Grand Street Stage at Mott Street (performances start at 7:30 pm unless another time is noted) Thursday, Sept 13: Blessing of the Stands (6pm) Thursday, Sept 13: Johnny Mandolin (5–7pm) Friday, Sept 14: The Happenings Friday, Sept 14: The 21st Annual Cannoli Eating Competition hosted by Gianni Russo (2pm, call 212-764-6330 to sign up) Saturday, Sept 15: The Grand Procession with floats, celebrities and more (2pm) Sunday, Sept 16: City Rhythm Monday, Sept 17: Opera Night Tuesday, Sept 18: The Fireflies Wednesday, Sept 19: The Chicklets Wednesday, Sept 19: Solemn High Mass Celebrating the Patron Saint of Na

The only Halloween costume contest that truly matters is the one that involves dressed up canines. That’s why we were heartbroken when news broke that the annual Tompkins Square Halloween Dog Parade was canceled due to a hefty insurance and liability policy administered by the Park’s Department. Nonetheless, we carried on thanks to a few other doggy Halloween costume contests and continued to enjoy the most spooktacular festivities in the city. RECOMMENDED: Full guide to Halloween in NYC But now, there is even more reason to rejoice as the organizers say the most infamous pooch procession is still on, but at a different location. The 28th parade is going down at East River Park Amphitheater in the Lower East Side’s Corlears Hook Park. Mark your calendar for Sunday, October 28 from noon to 3pm! ESPN’s Katie Nolan will host, and the event is being funded by the local civic group Good Old Lower East Side. Special kudos goes to ESPN—the network plans to donate 10,000 to the City Parks Foundation to support the Tompkins Square dog run. 

A Chinese-inspired lantern festival opens at Staten Island’s Snug Harbor Cultural Center and Botanical Garden this week, and it promises to be one of the most spectacular Christmas light displays you’ll see in the city this year. RECOMMENDED: Full guide to Christmas in NYC Starting Wednesday, November 28, wander through seven acres filled with 40 LED lantern installations in conjunction with live performances like a traditional lion dance, face changing, martial arts, water sleeve dancing and more. Some of the exhibits you’ll see include a floral Wonderland, Panda Paradise (with pandas, duh), a magical Sea World, a fierce Animal Kingdom, stunning Chinese Lights as well as a festive Holiday Zone with a massive Christmas tree. We're also stoked for the gorgeously electrifying Light Tunnel.  You will likely want to linger at this picturesque experience (which lasts through January 6, 2019), and luckily there's a food court for when you get the munchies. An on-site gift shop should also help you cross a few things off your holiday shopping list.  Tickets are $15 to $23, and you can purchase them here. Photograph: Courtesy Picasa   Photograph: Courtesy Picasa  

  The pop-up museum scene in New York is thriving right now—with exhibitions exploring everything from one of the city's most iconic dishes (pizza) to boba tea—and now, a museum focused on mind games is set to join the mix. (Because you don't already get enough of those while trying to date in New York, right?) The Museum of Illusions open its doors on September 20, and we can assure you it’s very real.   The international exhibit has traveled to ten locations around the world including Barcelona and Zadar. Now, it lands in the Meatpacking District at 77 Eighth Avenue. Guests can view a collection of more than 70 installations surrounding science, math, biology and psychology. We know that sounds like Freshman year of college, but the attraction is a lot more fun than hitting the textbooks. It’s a giant playroom of optical illusions, games and puzzles for folks of all ages to enjoy. Some of the exclusive exhibits for the New York iteration include a sensory trick called the Thermal Grill. When you press your hand against the “grill,” it will feel like you're getting burned, but it’s only an illusion! There’s also the creepy-sounding Following Eyes, in which the perception of hollow concave eyes look like normal convex eyes. If you stare at them and move left or right, it feels as if they're following you around. Lurk for life! We received a few photos of what the topsy-turvy museum will look like. Peep them below and prepare to be deceived!  Photograph: Courtesy Museum of

" " UPDATE: Tompkins Square Park Halloween Dog Parade has been saved! The previous headline of this article was "Tompkins Square Halloween Dog Parade is canceled, but these puppy costume contests are still on" We were devastated when the organizers of the annual Tompkins Square Park Halloween Dog Parade announced that this year's puppy procession has been canceled due to lack of funding to pay the Parks Department's hefty insurance and liability policy. (However, their GoFundMe page is still going strong). Alas, one of our city's most cherished Halloween celebrations is put on paws. Er, we meant to say pause.  But there is some good news. A few other canine costume contests in other boroughs exist. And the first one kicks off this weekend at one of the best Brooklyn attractions: Coney Island. Read on for where you can ogle and pet dogs dressed up as Lady Gaga and more during the spookiest season of the year without, y'know, seeming like a creep.  All Dogs Go To Coney! Coney Island has it’s very own Halloween costume contest for dogs, and it just feels so right, doesn't it? Hundreds of pups will be dressed to the nines in outfits, and thousands of spectators are expected to attend. Best of all, registering your pooch is free. Luna Park, Saturday 14 at noon; free. Annual Halloween Festival and Great PUPkin Dog Costume ContestThis doggy costume contest certainly deserves a prize for the punniest name, but the festival also sounds really freakin’ fun, too. Go for the adora

The perfect 4th of July party in NYC serves scrumptious grub and delicious cocktails—beer and wine, too—on a rooftop with unobstructed views of the Macy’s 4th of July fireworks. Before all you procrastinators make last-minute reservations at bars and restaurants that—by some miracle—still have openings (good luck), let us suggest an epic solution: Reserve your spot on Time Out Market New York's Rooftop Terrace (in Dumbo, Brooklyn) to experience all the above!  That’s right, party people. Time Out Market’s Rooftop with stunning waterfront views is taking reservations for an exclusive party during America’s birthday celebration. We offer tables of 4, 8, 10, 12, and 16, which at $200 per person, your guests receive a wristband that grants access to our fifth floor bar and rooftop restaurants ($100 of which goes on a card for you to use on food and drink) between the hours of 6pm and 10pm.Since Macy’s 4th of July fireworks are set off at the Brooklyn Bridge this year (starting at 9:25pm), you and your friends are in for an unreal viewing area for what is expected to be the biggest pyrotechnics display to-date. Interested? Click here to book now. All guests must be 21+ and over. This is going to be epic.

A trip to Rockaway Beach is a rite of passage to have the best summer ever in New York. But, for some, getting there can be a real trek. Services such as the subway and NYC’s ferry system are the most affordable travel options, but for $20 (round-trip), you can hitch a ride via Rockaway Brewing Company’s new Brew Cruiser service. And, yes, road sodas are available. This is a game changer for folks who live in Long Island City and Astoria (and also pretty convenient for Greenpointers and Midtown East peeps). The non-stop shuttle bus operates during three departure times (9:30am–4pm return, noon–6:30pm return, and 2pm–9pm return) at a LIC pickup address (46-01 5th St). The vessel drops beachgoers off at Beach 73rd Street and Beach Front Street. Each bus can fit 28 passengers and is able to store beach chairs, umbrellas, surf boards—you name it—for easy transport. Fans of Rockaway Brewing Company’s beers can purchase cans as well as growlers for the day to enjoy while laying on the sand as well. The service begins this Saturday on June 1 and continues every Saturday until Labor Day weekend. Reserve your spot here. It looks like it's going to be a beautiful beach weekend, so jump on this bandwagon (literally). 

As convenient as it may be, riding the subway can be a bit of a gamble here in New York. (And have you seen that video of the rat using a train car pole to practice it’s Magic Mike routine? Yikes.) That’s why so many Gothamites are starting to use alternative methods for getting around. Walking, biking, Lyfting have become popular choices, but thanks to an on-demand transportation company called Revel, it’s becoming even easier to ride to work in style. Two words: More mopeds! We told you a bit about moped service Revel last year, and at the time, 68 bikes were available at docks around Williamsburg, Greenpoint and Bushwick. Now, the service is expanding in a big way by launching 1,000 mopeds across more than 20 neighborhoods in Brooklyn and Queens. The new e-mopeds can hold two riders (ah, romantic!) and will replace the original 68. And, yes, this is legal: They are US DOT safety certified, registered with the New York Department of Vehicles (DMV), and include insurance and helmets. Live out your European fantasies in the big apple when you use Revel’s service that is sort of modeled like Car2Go. Utilizing the brand’s app, drivers with a license can register (the process involves a motor vehicle license check that’ll run you $19). Once approved, folks looking to ride can unlock the nearest moped, put on a Revel helmet and cruise.