Melissa Kravitz Hoeffner

Manhattan’s magic is that within a tiny island, dozens of micro-communities welcome the hordes of people and cultures that make the city unique—from downtown’s Chinatown, with its pulled noodles and dumpling shops, to uptown’s Little Dominican Republic filled with restaurants serving up island cuisine. Manhattan is also home to Little Italy, Little Brazil, Little Tokyo, Ukrainian Village, Koreatown, El Barrio, and many more.  But until recently, French culture didn’t have a concentrated spot on the map. The founders of the local French language school Coucou, Léa and Marianne Perret, are working to change that. They’ve christened their nook of Nolita with a handpainted sign reading “Little Paris" and are working to officially rename the neighborhood. Even moreso, they're striving to bring together a community of French businesses, Francophiles, and Francophones in Lower Manhattan. Find Little Paris on Centre Street, between Broome and Grand Street. Even the stars of Emily in Paris have hung out in this neighborhood, and if it's Chef Gabriel-endorsed, you know it's legit. Interestingly, the lack of a specified space for Francophiles in Manhattan wasn't always the case. In the late 19th Century, Soho had its own French Quarter, as chronicled in an 1879 issue of Scribner's Monthly: "The people are nearly all French. French too is the language of the signs over the doors and in the windows." Photograph: Courtesy Robert Lester/Coucou Today, more than 60,000 French citizens and o

New York is a city of neighborhoods, and each neighborhood has its specific charms and destination-worthy outings. Whether you're looking for an artistic outlet, an escape into nature, an adreneline-increasing activity, cultural immersion or more, local spaces are waiting for you. And so many of these things to do are only in New York. Wild indoor mini golf for adults? Check. A vegan jazz club? Of course! Custom lingerie, improv while drinking, open podcast studios, ninja training and more are just a Metrocard swipe away.  If New York has one problem, it's too much to do everyday. We've you helped narrow it down.

New York is, not arguably, the best place to eat in the world. The five boroughs contain some of the most restaurants per capita of any U.S. city, and the cuisines include tastes from nations, cultures, and traditions worldwide.  Want a family-style Filipino feast on a weeknight? Hard-to-find Czech delicacies for brunch? A Malaysian coffee and breakfast? A never-before-seen mash-up combo of two foods you love but never thought you'd enjoy in the same bite? You've got it. New York's local restaurants range from historic delis, to new, independent projects that creative New Yorkers put their all into to share their passion with diners across the city. Here are some solid spots to dine in New York, whether you're craving pastrami or poke. 

Going out in New York can be as easy as stopping at the nearest corner for happy hour, and staying all night. The city is lush with incredible bars, specializing in everything from award-winning craft cocktails to natural wines to cheap drinks that keep the party going. And while there are tons of critically acclaimed spots to drink across the boroughs, there's nothing quite like a local bar with friendly bartenders, cold drinks, and a convivial ambiance that, well, makes it hard to say no to the next round. There's nothing quite like a New York neighborhood bar, even if you're not in your own neighborhood. Here's where to drink to feel like a local. 

It's summer in the city, but you just want to GTFO. However, you're not looking for some quaint camping trip upstate or a family-friendly weekend getaway—you want city-level raging with the beach breeze in your hair. And accessibility by train. Montauk, the surfer-fishermen town set in the farthest point out east in the Hamptons, is known for an "it" scene during the summer thanks to its high-low mix of elitist clubs, gritty dives, local hangouts and a constant influx of new bars and restaurants. We’ve rounded up the best Montauk bars for partying in the Hamptons’ rowdiest hamlet. RECOMMENDED: Full guide to the Hamptons, NY

Searching for great things to do near the High Line? The beautiful, one-of-a-kind park attracts locals and tourists with its scenic views and greenery. Now running a span of 22 blocks (about 1.5 miles), the High Line is located near plenty of fun-having spots. Grab lunch at Chelsea Market, peruse some of the best Chelsea art galleries, or stroll over to one of the other best NYC Parks—Hudson River Park. You're also close enough to discover Hudson Yards and Manhattan West. There are many options to choose from, but here are our top suggestions. RECOMMENDED: Full guide to the High Line in NYC

Manhattan’s iconic green space (and one of the top New York attractions), Central Park has a lot of entertainment to offer, regardless of which season we’re experiencing. In fact, you may be surprised to know that some of the best things to do in Central Park occur in fall and winter! While tourists and locals love to frequent one of the city’s best parks for its various lawns, fountains, walking paths, trees and picnic spots, Central Park also hosts major events from epic summer concerts and theater performances to the annual Winter Jam festival. There’s always an excuse to visit, but here are a few of our favorite happenings to get you started. We've broken down the list by season, so you won't miss a thing. RECOMMENDED: Full guide to Central Park in New York

It might not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think about summer in the city, but when you need to beat the heat, why not give free kayaking in NYC a try? We’ve got plenty of water, from the Hudson River to the East River Estuary, and these waterways offer some of the best views of many of New York’s attractions. If you own your own kayak, you’re all set to paddle. For the rest of us, there are many organizations around the city that aim to reconnect urbanites to nature and the aquatic ecosystems that surround us. Groups of boaters and paddling enthusiasts lead small groups around New York’s waterways, offering a cool, relaxing and educational adventure. Best of all? It’s free! NYC Parks also hosts one-off free kayaking and canoeing events throughout the summer!  Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, and Staten Island all have boating opportunities for you this summer. Most are first-come-first-served or by reservation only, so be sure to check before you head out. After all that paddling, treat yourself to a hearty NYC brunch. RECOMMENDED: Full guide to things to do outside in NYC

As of 2024, New York City is home to just a few lesbian bars (just two in all of Manhattan!) and a few hyper-inclusive queer bars to throw into the mix of sapphic safe spaces across all five boroughs.  For lesbian, bisexual, and queer women, places to find community, mingle and gather can feel limited. Luckily, plenty of women-loving women (WLW), trans and nonbinary people organize weekly events and parties to help unite women-loving women across the city.

NYC has always been a beacon for LGBTQ+ communities, with welcoming (and history-making) bars leading the way and club nights and roving parties bringing the fun. NYC’s best gay bars are scattered throughout the city, primarily concentrated in the West Village. The best lesbian bars in NYC are in fact the only lesbian bars in NYC, as there are unfortunately not many remaining that identify as such. The few that are still standing are open to all LGBTQ+, but still maintain their roots as welcoming places for (and owned by) lesbians. These lesbian bars are friendly, neighborhood spots frequented by locals and visitors alike. Whether you’re visiting during a major event like Pride — and NYC is the birthplace of Pride, after all—or on just any night, you’ll find plenty of warm, welcoming hospitality. For something a little more high energy, check out the best drag shows or cabaret performances in town, or just stop by for a drink and a friendly chat. These spots in Brooklyn and Manhattan are currently the only lesbian bars in all five boroughs. They are few, but not far between – two are in the West Village, and three are in North Brooklyn. And yes, they’re all the best.

Waking up on the last day of the weekend can be a drag, and that’s why we have drag brunch! The city-wide phenomenon of turning your mid-morning meal into an often-interactive show is probably the best way to cap off the weekend, and leave you smiling (or twerking) through the Sunday Scaries. New York is full of pop-up and special appearance drag brunches, but here are some weekly reservations at LGTBQ+ bars and otherwise that you can rely on for delicious food, boozy drinks and a really good show. Remember to bring plenty of cash ($1 suffice, but $5s and $20 are better) to tip your queens—they’re working hard! RECOMMENDED: The 40 best brunch spots in NYC right now

New York has played a major role in LGBTQ+ history and it’s no wonder there are a slew of bars that have been beacons for the community (and prime party spots) for decades. The best queer bars in NYC range from dive bars to dance clubs, with historic spots like the Stonewall Inn anchoring them all. The West Village is a classic destination for queer nightlife, but you’ll find something exciting and welcoming in pretty much any part of the city.You can check out the best drag shows or cabaret performances, but these queer spaces all offer something unique, from cozy vibes and cheap drinks to high-energy dancing and brunch parties - sometimes in the same place on different days! Maybe your interests skew more trendy and urbane, or perhaps you're more of the down-and-dirty hook-up spots, the "what happens on the weekends, stays on the weekends" type — we're not here to judge! There are plenty of LGBTQ+ things to do in New York, but if it’s a bar you’re looking for, we’ve got you covered. RECOMMENDED: Full guide to the best bars in NYC

New to Montauk as of May 2024, Shark Bar has quickly become a staple for locals, summer people, and weekenders alike. Run by the same team as last summer’s new hyper-buzzy steakhouse, Maverick’s, Shark Bar attracts off-duty seasonal workers and industry folks, rowdy partiers, and hungry revelers eager to snack on fried oysters and Cajun fries while sipping frozen tiki drinks. Open only until dinnertime, Shark Bar is more of a spot for a day party, happy hour, or pre-game, but is certainly a fun time.

The music from Bounce’s rooftop lures in visitors from downtown Montauk for clubby parties that appeal to bachelorette and bachelor parties, group trips and curious tourists alike. Nearly every night and most afternoons bring out a DJ, with VIP tables bookable for those eager to go all out just a block from the Atlantic Ocean (in the former Sloppy Tuna spot). Brunch and dinner are also served here, making it an easy one-stop shop for a group who need to fuel up on truffle fries and $43 lobster rolls before dancing the night away.  

Equinox is pretty much ubiquitous with upscale wellness, and the well-known brand’s first foray into the hospitality space aligns. First opened in July 2019, Equinox has seen a post-shutdown resurgence of luxury travelers, for both leisure and business (and also staycationing) in its 14 stories of a 92-story skyscraper.  Along with regular gym members, hotel guests have access to Equinox Hudson Yards’ 60,000 square feet of club space, plus indoor and outdoor pools, plunge pools, group fitness classes, training, locker rooms and more. An on-site spa also offers premium relaxation and rejuvenation through signature inner and outer body treatments.  Following the wellness theme, Equinox’s guest rooms are meticulously designed for a better night’s sleep, which, well, depends on the sleeper. During my stay, soundproof walls and light-blocking curtains created such a dark sleep chamber that I didn’t notice how close I was to the West Side Highway. The all-natural fibers on the bed are designed for the perfect shut-eye once tucked in, but they weren’t my favorite to sleep with. And if you’re more used to a foam mattress, the hard sleep surface might not suffice (though a “PM Rituals” program on the in-room TV may help you settle). The sky lobby is a small living room space on the 25th floor with cozy seating and counters to get some work done or meet with visitors. Below, the 24th floor houses Electric Lemon, a stunning health-focused fine dining restaurant with a gorgeous terrace a

Located on The Hamptons’ largest marina, Montauk Yacht Club is a full-service resort just minutes from downtown Montauk. The most expensive property sale in Hamptons history, the renovated resort opened in 2023 with 107 modern yet nautical guest rooms, plus 22 standalone villas. Showfish, the property’s signature restaurant, serves breakfast, lunch and dinner, and Il Forno offers Neapolitan-style pizzas to enjoy by the pool. A second more quiet pool, plus an indoor pool are also onsite, as is a quiet swimming beach on Lake Montauk.  The entire waterfront property is dog- and family-friendly, with attentive service and amenities including paddleboards and kayaks, free cruises on the property’s electric yacht, and more – all with no resort fee. Outdoor sofas, dock chairs and loungers are ample across the hotel, so there are plenty of spaces to lounge, relax with a book (or smartphone, WiFi is strong), order a spritz and unwind. The crowd ranges from city and suburban weekenders to local folks who park their boats (yachts) on-site, with notorious late-night parties raging when Showfish transitions to club mode with a DJ. Don’t worry: the guest rooms are far enough away if you want a quiet, good night’s sleep, or if you just want to conveniently roll into bed at 4am. Neighborhood Located on Star Island on Lake Montauk, Montauk Yacht Club is at the edge of the East End hamlet, and a resort neighborhood within itself. That is, you don’t have to leave once you check in, and if you a

Brand new construction that opened in 2023, Moxy Williamsburg is a sharp, artistically inclined space, with 10 floors of guest rooms, plus a rooftop bar, LilliStar, and a basement gym. On the ground level, a cozy lobby opens directly onto bustling Bedford Avenue, with Bar Bedford offering guests coffee and breakfast, plus refreshments throughout the day. It’s a casual spot to get some work done (free Wifi is available to all), people watch or plan to meet with friends before venturing out into Brooklyn. Yes, it feels like a hotel lobby, but the decor is sleek, the volume is minimal, and locals can also pop in for a cocktail or Zoom meeting. A covered backyard also offers coworking space, where you can relax on a picnic bench with your laptop or take a cornhole break when you need an email recess. In a city full of events, the Moxy makes sure to keep guests intrigued and entertained as well. Happy hours, drag brunches and more take place on-site, and a WNBA partnership offers guests discount tickets to New York Liberty games at nearby Barclays Center.  The property’s in-house restaurant, Mesiba, is popular for its Tel Aviv cuisine, including homemade breads, dips and heartier entrees served in a sleek, plant-filled space. In the back, a Dolly Parton- inspired nightclub, Jolene, hosts DJs and dance parties of up to 140 guests.   Like most city hotel rooms, guest rooms are cozy, and styled like efficient Brooklyn studios.  Space-maximizing features include under-bed storage, fol

It’s prom season, and you don’t have to be a teen to enjoy the annual festival ball. Queer Prom is coming to Crystal Lake, an event space in Williamsburg, on Thursday, May 11 at 9pm. The party will go until 3am with entertainment, drag performances, dancing, drinking (peanut butter espresso martini, anyone?) and much more. Tickets are sliding scale in price, to be inclusive of all budgets. Groups are welcome, as are singles, couples and throuples. Those who want to meet a plus one on-site can also head to the event early when @dykefembot will host a speed dating event.  Prom outfits are encouraged, and a competition for prom royalty will offer a coronation to the crowned queer. The winners will also receive a goody bag from Babetown, and a binder from For Them.  Photographer Dev Baby will be available to capture all the prom ‘fits and let you strike the perfect prom pose, and three local DJs—DJ Petal, DJ Crystal Queer, and DJ Jay Essex—will play all night. If you want a permanent souvenir from prom night, Tattoos by Priya will offer ink on-site. Less permanent accessories, like jewelry, will also be for purchase, at a pop-up shop from queer Korean-American-owned misomomo. Consumable treats from The Lost Canna Club will be sold all night, and guests will also be treated to a free pre-roll, if desired. 

Think your favorite family-run Italian deli—but 100% plant based! This charming deli counter offers a full menu of hot and cold sandwiches, all vegan, with options ranging from the classic smoked deli meats with faux cheese to hot bites like crispy calamari fashioned from hearts of palm. Pasta and deli case salads are offered as well. 

Lodged between Herald Square and Penn Station, a new destination-worthy Thai restaurant can feel, well, random. And that's exactly the point of Random Access, a cozy, bilevel comfort food restaurant at 138 W. 32 St. Run by Hand Hospitality—the restaurant group behind local hits like Her Name is Han, Hakata Tonton, LittleMad and several more Manhattan eateries—Random Access offers a laid-back vibe and extensive menu.  Central to the menu are Thai-American crossover dishes, also known as "Random Classics." Crab curry mac and cheese is baked with crab meat, macaroni, mozzarella and topped with a crisp layer of shallot chips and fresh cilantro. Chicken and waffles are created from fried chicken thighs and coconut milk waffle served with somtum pickle, cilantro, thai chili and a lime wedge. The spicy Thai ragu spaghetti is like a pad kee mao meets marinara, topped with green peppercorns, Thai basil and grated parmesan.  View this post on Instagram A post shared by Random Access (@randomaccess.nyc) The fusion menu is enough to fill up on, but Random Access also offers a full noodle bar (think spicy curry chicken ramen, beef noodle soup and more) and a somtum bar to create your own papaya salad. Small bites, raw dishes and stir-fries are also on the menu, as well as larger, shareable dishes to add to the delicious culinary chaos of the extensive menu. Kub Khao, the shareables, are worth bringing a crew for, especially to dig into crispy pork belly and the photogeni

The school cafeteria has nothing on this tapas restaurant.  Oliva, a new Spanish restaurant by chef Franklin Becker, is adjacent to Manhattanville Market, which is within Columbia University’s Jerome L. Greene Science Center, but the offerings are far from university fare.  The lively, fun West Harlem spot serves premium products sourced directly from Spain, showcasing shareable dishes with modern interpretations to whisk you across the Atlantic in just a few small bites.  Oliva’s menu, developed with Chef de Cuisine Chris Strelnick, highlights cured meats, Embutidos, along with a variety of queso, a frio y ambiente section and finishes with a selection of calida y caliente. For non-hispanohablantes, that’s cold and hot dishes. Standout dishes from the Fall 2021 opening menu include a mackerel and blood orange crudo, Serrano ham croquetas, crab fideos and a Soccarat, or seafood rice, for two. For dessert, a crema Catalana presents a creamy Barcelonian twist on more familiar creme brulee.  The beverage menu, designed by mixologist Eamon Rockey, offers beverages from regions around Spain, local New York beers, ciders and spirits, plus cocktails designed to emulate the easygoing European lifestyle. There is, of course, sangria, as well as Spanish-style gin and tonics, with fresh and dried botanicals, and plenty of fortified wines, like sherry and vermouth.   Live music nights help fill the floor-to-ceiling glass space with joy and celebration, and the restaurant serves as a nice

A beachy vacation may not be in reach (or in season), but Jibs’ New England style seafood shack transports you to sandier, breezier vibes where summer is totally a verb.  Situated on the Hudson River at Hudson Yards, with spacious outdoor seating, Jibs is a collaborative, luxe lobster shack created by Cobi Levy and Will Makris (ACT2 Hospitality: Lola Taverna, Baby Luc's), Thatcher Shultz (Kind Regards, Make Believe), Chef David Ladner (Rhode Island's acclaimed Spiced Pear; Rialto in Cambridge), and General Manager Trisha Hitko. The menu melds traditional, nostalgic seafood shack delights with seasonal specials. Think: Lobster makes, Maine and Connecticut-style lobster rolls and fried seafood basket with cod, calamari or crab cakes. Grilled and steamed seafood is also available, including whole lobster, black sea bass, and more, as well as a raw bar featuring a variety of oysters, clams and shrimp. On the side, opt for crispy crinkle French fries,  corn on the cob or seasonal veggies.  Jibs’ bar features a combination of classic cocktails, cold beer, and wines, all to be paired with the food and the nautical experience.    Designed by Levy and styled by Mate Gallery’s Matt Albiani, Jibs’ 6,500-square-foot space evokes a simpler, more colorful time, particularly on Cape Cod or the coast of Maine.  Blue-and-white striped private cabanas with 180-degree views of the Hudson River, a “Grass Lounge” area featuring nautical-themed covered seating, a hammock, sandpit, and assorted gre

Dinner, drinks and dancing may not be what it was in New York’s pre-digital everything heyday, but Bacall’s Family Steakhouse throws it back. Inspired by New Yorker and Hollywood star Lauren Bacall, and her Jewish-Romanian upbringing in The Bronx, Bacall’s merges 1940s era Hollywood charm (Chandeliers! Vintage decor!) with once again trendy Eastern European dishes.  Appetizer’s riff on a bubbe’s standards: deep-fried beef kreplach, chopped chicken liver with challah, latkes with applesauce and gefilte fish topped caesar salad all kick off the menu. Sweet and sour meatballs and matzo ball soup are also served, before shareable meat-centric feasts like slow-cooked brisket, dill-and-basil salmon and a steak and fries platter that could serve a small family. Quick, pre-theater meals like rotisserie chicken with a side of kugel, pasta and a wagyu burger are also available, but Bacall’s is a place to luxuriate. Along with the updated nostalgic menu, Bacall’s has an in-house musician, Dani Luv, famed troubadour of the Lower East Side’s Famous Sammy’s Roumanian for over 20 years, who performs nightly. Come with cash for tips and ideas for song requests, the cheesier the better.  Dancing the hora around the restaurant (yes, that happens) is of course more fun after indulging at Bacall’s in-house vodka bar. The “Vodcã Blast” program offers top-shelf vodka encased in an ice block, served tableside with a choice of mixers or shot glasses, and upon special request, with cucumber cups or a

Rockefeller Center is looking little more like a charming European piazza, thanks to Lodi, an all-day restaurant, bakery, and bar inspired by Italian caffè culture now open at 1 Rockefeller Plaza.  Chef Ignacio Mattos, of Manhattan favorites estela and Altro Paradiso, is behind the new spot, which is part of a revitalization of Rockefeller Center, breathing some twenty-first century life into the historic, tourist-frequented location. That is, you're likely to see the pastries and stylized pastries on your FYP.  “Lodi is a reminder of how much restaurants, caffès, and bakeries bring to our communities,” says Mattos. “As we enter this new stage in New York City, we’re returning to our roots with an appreciation for the most essential crafts, such as milling, baking, and distilling. Lodi is a celebration of what we love to do.” Head Baker and Pastry Chef Louis Volle, who cut his teeth at Dean & Deluca (RIP), Blue Hill Stone Barns and Tartine, created an bread and pastry program celebrating the craft of milling and baking. A large stone mill, the first of its kind in Manhattan, will freshly grind single variety grains into flours for the specialty baked goods, which will rotate through Lodi's ovens all day long.   Mornings feature a selection of Pasticcini (small pastries) such as cornetto, cioccolato, maritozzo and bombolone. Prima Colazione (breakfast) includes soft eggs with smoked salmon and oats with fruit and honey.  The Pane (bread menu) showcases natural fermentation an

We're midway through the year, which means a new list of best places for 2024. For their annual World's Greatest Places list, TIME curated 100 "extraordinary" destinations to visit in 2024 and beyond. To compile the new llst, TIME contributors and correspondents across the globe nominated visit-worthy hotels, cruises, restaurants, attractions, museums, parks, and more. Places could also apply online to be considered, particularly if they are offering new and exciting experiences.  The resulting 100 destinations include cultural sites, inns, museums, foundations and beyond, with many of the top spots located in the United States and North America. The places to stay category is heavy on American hospitality venues. Modern Elder Academy in Santa Fe tops the list, along with The Manchester in Lexington, Kentucky; The Wayback in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee; Mine + Farm Inn in Guerneville, California; Bowie House, Auberge Resorts Collection in Fort Worth; World Equestrian Center in Ocala, Florida; Omni Homestead Resort and Warm Springs Pools in Warm Springs, Virginia; The Inn at Stonecliffe on Mackinac Island in Michigan; and Kantishna Roadhouse in Alaska's Denali National Park. Major urban destinations, like the Warren Street Hotel in New York City and The Fontainebleau in Las Vegas, also made the list. Two U.S. camping sites are also top in the world: Under Canvas Lake Powell-Grand Staircase in Big Water, Utah and Snow Peak Long Beach Campfield in Long Beach Peninsula, Washington. 

A massive bridge project just kicked off in Maryland. Updates to The Susquehanna River Bridge broke ground on Friday, July 19, the first steps in creating two new structures to serve 110 daily Amtrak routes.  “Amtrak is excited to kick off early work on this important bridge upgrade, one of several major Amtrak infrastructure megaprojects now underway or set to begin by the end of 2024,” said Amtrak CEO Stephen Gardner. “Thanks to funding from the Infrastructure Investment & Jobs Act, continued support from the Biden-Harris Administration and Congress, and strong coordination with our partners, Amtrak is advancing a new era of passenger rail with state-of-the-art bridges, tunnels and trains on the way.” Amtrak’s Maryland Area Regional Commuter (MARC) rail and Norfolk Southern Railway travel via the Susquehanna River Bridge, the longest moveable bridge on the Northeast Corridor. Constructed in 1906, the bridge is due for some updates for safety, capacity and efficiency, and the new structures will offer significant improvements to commuter and freight rail trips. The $2.7 billion project is supported by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, via funding from a $2.08 billion grant, plus additional funding by Amtrak and the state of Maryland. “Upgrading our state’s and our nation’s aging infrastructure—like the century-old Susquehanna River Bridge – was one of our top priorities in passing the infrastructure modernization law,” said U.S. Senator Chris Van Hollen. “This critical in

Following much anticipation, a dose of controversy, and unparalleled hard work and dedication by athletes around the globe, the Paris 2024 Olympics are finally here. Following the opening ceremony on Friday, June 26, the games begin! And with it, the return of gold medalist Simone Biles on the USA Gymnastics Team. The GOAT will compete in the women's all-around, women's floor exercise competitions, and the women's balance beam competition. Events will be broadcast live on NBC, and replayed at prime time for American viewers whose time zones are hours behind France. Here’s how to watch after watching the Olympics Opening Ceremony and the epic list of celebrity performers.  Who is on the current U.S. women's gymnastics team? 2024’s USA gymnastics team includes Simone Biles, Sunisa Lee, Jade Carey, Jordan Chiles and Hezly Rivera. Joscelyn Roberson and Leanne Wong will serve as alternates. When will Simone Biles compete? Simone Biles will compete in gymnastic events starting on Sunday, July 28, and running through the finals on Monday, August 5. How to watch Simon Biles compete: Women's gymnastics events at the 2024 Paris Olympics kick off on Sunday, July 28. The competition will air on NBC, USA Network and E!, and stream on Peacock and NBC Olympics platforms, where full event replays will also be available. Simone Biles’ full schedule at the Paris 2024 Olympics Women's Qualification: Sunday, July 28 at 5:40–7:20am ET Women's Team Final: Tuesday, July 30 at 12:15–2:30pm ET W

Do you live in the best place for your family? A new analysis of over 2,000 cities across the country may have you rethinking relocation. Or feeling grateful for your ancestral hometown. For the third year in a row, Fortune analyzed cities’ livability for multigenerational families, ranking important assets like health care, education, affordability, resources for seniors and more to determine the top 50 cities in each state for families. At the top of the list for 2024: Silver Spring, Maryland. With a population of about 82,000, Silver Spring is a suburb of Washington, D.C., just six miles away from the capital. Known for its lovely downtown with small businesses and a lively arts community, Silver Spring is a compelling choice as the top town for American families. The median household income is around $106,000 and the suburb is notably diverse, with a population that’s 7.5 percent Asian, 28.7 percent Black, 27.2 percent Hispanic and 34.7 percent White. In 2023, Silver Spring was ranked as the third best place to live in America, and Cambridge, Massachusetts, snagged the top spot. In 2022, Silver Spring didn’t even make the top ten, so the area has certainly seen a glow up. Next up for second place this year is Upper Merion, Pennsylvania, a suburb of Philadelphia with a population of around 35,500. In third place, Chantilly, Virginia, followed by Ann Arbor, Michigan and Mason, Ohio. Also in the top ten are Franklin, Tennessee;  Lafayette, Colorado; Overland Park, Kansas; Mo

A fast-food tem uma forma de nos unir e dividir: é universalmente amada, altamente desejada, e cada cadeia tem os seus próprios méritos e desvantagens; mas, quando se debate qual delas é a melhor de todas, eis que surgem as controvérsias. O jornal USA Today quis pôr o dedo na ferida e pediu aos seus leitores para escolherem os 10 melhores hambúrgueres de fast-food nos EUA. No entanto, o resultado não é aquele que os próprios norte-americanos pensariam. A lista final inclui cadeias regionais e nacionais, e o Shake Shack, porventura surpreendentemente, nem sequer aparece no ranking. O décimo lugar é atribuído ao The 1921 Slider da White Castle, seguido pelo Double Western Bacon Cheeseburger da Carl’s Jr. e pelo famoso Whopper do Burger King, respectivamente, no nono e no oitavo lugar. O sétimo melhor é o Double ButterBurger Cheese da Culver, cadeia do Midwest com sede no Wisconsin. O Double Meat Whataburger da Texas, particularmente adorado pelos texanos que frequentam a cadeia baseada em San Antonio, está em sexto lugar. O quinto lugar vai para o cheeseburger do Five Guys, conhecido pelas suas coberturas ilimitadas e personalizáveis. Em quarto, o Jumbo Jack Cheeseburger do Jack in the Box. Em terceiro lugar, um hambúrguer robusto. O BBQ Rodeo Burger do BurgerFi recebe a medalha de bronze, um grande hambúrguer com duas rodelas de carne Angus, jalapeños grelhados, queijo pepper jack, cebolas crocantes e molho BBQ doce de Memphis. Os dois primeiros lugares na nova lista pertencem

Now's the time to book your next getaway.  Norse Atlantic Airways just announced an early bird sale, and the deals are incredible. The affordable long-haul airline is offering deals for trips taking place from September 1, 2024, through March 28, 2025. Premium seats will also be on sale for travel between September 1 and December 31, 2024, excluding peak travel dates. The sale will run through July 29, 2024, and is offering flights as low as $109 across the Atlantic, between the United States and Europe. All taxes and fees are included in promotional fares.  “Our Early Bird sale is a great opportunity for customers looking to secure their autumn and winter travel plans at great prices without compromising on quality or comfort,” said Bård Nordhagen, Chief Commercial Officer Norse Atlantic Airways. In New York, Norse Airways departs from JFK is is also offering an $109 fare to Berlin, plus $139 fares to Oslo, Paris, Rome and Athens. Those departing from Miami can fly to Oslo or Londoj for $139. Los Angeles-based travelers can also find amazing deals on super long flights, including routs from LAX to London, Paris, and Oslo for $149. A Las Vegas to London flight is going for $199 and a Miami to London flight is $139.  Norse Atlantic exclusively flies on Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft with Economy and Nore Premium seating. Fare choices include Light, Classic, and Flextra, which include the maximum baggage allowance, two meal services, and increased ticket flexibility.

Fast food has a way of uniting us and dividing us. Sure, fast food is universally beloved, hugely crave-able, and each chain has its own merits and setbacks, but when debating which food is the best of the best, controversy ensues.  A new crowd-sourced reader ranking from USA Today lists the top 10 fast food burgers in America, and the top choice is likely not one many Americans would even think of. The list includes regional chains and national chains, and Shake Shack, perhaps surprisingly, didn't even make the cut. The 10th spot is awarded to The 1921 Slider from White Castle, followed by the Double Western Bacon Cheeseburger from Carl's Jr. and the ever-famous Burger King Whopper in the 8th spot.  The seventh best burger in America is Culver's Double ButterBurger Cheese, found at the Midwestern chain based in Wisconsin. Texas' Double Meat Whataburger, particularly beloved by Texans who frequent the San Antonio-based chain, is in number six. Fifth place goes to Five Guys' cheeseburger, known for its unlimited and customizable toppings. In fourth, the Jumbo Jack Cheeseburger from Jack in the Box. In third place, a hefty burger. The BBQ Rodeo Burger from BurgerFi gets the bronze medal level accolade, a big beefy burfer with two Angus beef patties, stacked with charred jalapeños, pepper jack cheese, crispy haystack onions, and Memphis sweet BBQ sauce.  The top two spots on the new list belong to California chains. The Double-Double from In-N-Out Burger took second place and a

It's a big summer for sports and competition. And if you prefer drinking while watching athletics (or not watching), the results of this major competition may be for you.  This July, the U.S. Open Beer Championship awarded breweries across America gold, silver, and bronze medals for their beers in various categories, from Dark Ales to Belgian Tripels. The annual U.S. Open Beer Championship takes place in Oxford, Ohio, and features judges from 11 states and six countries. Breweries and homebrewers can both compete with up to 10 of their beers.  Those eager to sip a top-notch pilsner can pick up a case of the gold medal winner in the Mexican Lager and Pilsner category, Oroveza by Feather Falls Brewing Co. in California. The Mexican-style lager is five percent ABV and brewed with flaked maze for a golden hue. The silver winner in the pilsner category is Aztec Eagles from Flyover Brewing Company in Nebraska, and the bronze medal was given to San Carlos Especial by Riverlands Brewing Company in Illinois.  The competition also honored top breweries across the nation. The top spot went to Third Eye Brewing in Ohio, followed by Georgia's Monday Night Brewing in second place and Indiana's Sun King Brewery in third place. The top 10 also included O.H.S.O. Brewery Gilbert in Arizona, Cherry Street Brewpub at Halcyon in Georgia, Urban Artifact in Ohio, Boulevard Brewing Co. in Missouri, Feather Falls Brewing Co. in California, Toppling Goliath Brewing Co. in Iowa, Sonder Brewing in Ohio,

Everything's bigger in Texas. And it's about to get faster.  Amtrak released details of its plan to introduce high-speed rail, Acela, to Texas via a YouTube video detailing the upcoming steps of the plan. The new routes, including a proposed 240-mile between Dallas and Houston, aim to help folks commute efficiently without the need to visit an airport or drive long distances in personal vehicles.  As some of the fastest-growing metropolises in the United States, these cities are prime candidates to be linked by high-speed rail. The I-45, which runs between the two major cities, is known for traffic, and though a flight route exists between the cities, it's inefficient.  “We believe many of the country’s biggest and fastest-growing metropolitan areas, like Houston and Dallas, deserve more high quality high-speed, intercity rail service and we are proud to bring our experience to evaluate this potential project and explore opportunities with Texas Central so the state can meet its full transportation needs," said Amtrak Senior Vice President of High-Speed Rail Development Programs Andy Byford.  While Amtrak's Acela train can travel as fast as 150 miles per hour, the fastest train in the Western Hemisphere, an even faster solution is proposed for the largest state in the continental U.S.: A Japanese bullet train. At 205 miles per hour, an average of 187 miles per hour, this train would be the fastest in the world. The trip between Dallas and Houston would be reduced to under 90

The biggest news coming out of D.C. right now: 24-hour alcohol service! No one can be sleepy when bars are staying open around the clock, thanks to a new provision from D.C.'s Alcohol Beverage and Cannabis Administration (ABCA).  And don't worry, the reason you can order a cold one at the bar throughout the night and at breakfast time is patriotic.  New 2024 special events extended hours allow alcohol-licensed establishments to apply for a special permit to sell, serve, and permit the consumption of alcohol between 6–4am and operate 24 hours daily during the following special events 2024 Summer Olympics (July 26 through August 11) and 2024 Paralympic Games (August 28 through September 8). The extended hours will help bars accommodate patrons who want to watch the games live, despite the time difference between DC and Paris, which is six hours ahead.   The Opening Ceremony of the 2024 Paris Olympics will kick off at 1:30pm ET on Friday, July 26, with a primetime rerun at 7:30pm that night on Peacock and NBC. The following days will see full rosters of events at all hours.  “We’re the Sports Capital and we know that sports bring people together and that many people enjoy cheering on their favorite athletes and teams alongside other fans,” said Mayor Muriel Bowser. “The extended hours program is one way we can support local businesses and have fun celebrating the Olympics in our Nation’s Capital.” Not a sports fan? Additional provisions allow twenty-four-hour operations for the

The morning of Friday, July 19, started out pretty tough for countless Americans and travelers worldwide. An unexpected tech outage grounded thousands of flights, paused train routes, and caused brief outages to 911 lines and emergency services across the country. The unfortunate issue was resolved within hours, but has lasting effects for those trying to travel from airports today, as well as those affected by the delays.  To try and sweeten the frustrating day, Krispy Kreme is offering a complimentary doughnut happy hour to anyone who could use a Friday treat. "Sweet-ware Update Available! Does technology have you down today? Our windows are working great and so is our Hot Light! Come on in and help yourself to a FREE Original Glazed® Doughnut from 5 to 7pm to add some sweetness to this sour day!" Krispy Kreme posted on the brand's official Instagram on Friday morning.  No purchase is necessary to claim your free doughnut, available as long as supplies last and only at participating shops.  Those who want another Friday bonus can take advantage of McDonald's ongoing free fries Friday. Those ordering through the app can apply a deal to get free fries every Friday with just a $1 purchase.  If you're still lingering at a crowded airport, those free fries may just be the balm to ease the angst of this summer Friday gone wrong. 

Weekend travelers met the first hurdle of their getaways on Friday morning, when thousands of flights across the globe were canceled, due to a tech issue. In this summer of record-low flight cancellations, it's not great.  An IT failure early Friday morning caused American Airlines, United and Delta to request the FAA to issue a global ground stop on all flights. Over a thousand flights across the U.S. were canceled, along with thousands more flights and train trips abroad.  The issue was a CrowdStrike outage during which the cybersecurity software failed. Microsoft has since fixed the issue, and travel is slowly starting to commence.  "Today was not a security or cyber incident. Our customers remain fully protected. We understand the gravity of the situation and are deeply sorry for the inconvenience and disruption. We are working with all impacted customers to ensure that systems are back up and they can deliver the services their customers are counting on," shared CrowdStrike CEO George Kurtz on X. Passengers are entitled to reimbursements and expenses related to the delays. "In these circumstances, it's crucial for passengers to understand their rights and know their options during disruptions. Although this incident is beyond the control of airlines and airports, passengers still have certain rights under U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) regulations," said Tomasz Pawliszyn, CEO of AirHelp. "The passengers are entitled to assistance from the airline. This can incl