Central Park is nestled between the Upper West Side and Upper East Side neighborhoods of Manhattan and was established in 1858. It was the first landscaped park in the United States, is the sixth-largest park in New York City, and boasts over 42 million visitors per year enjoying the verdant landscapes and plush gardens. The main attractions are the Wollman Rink, Central Park Zoo, the Carousel, and Shakespeare in the Park.
The iconic and legendary Art Deco architectural wonder is a 102-story skyscraper in Manhattan. Its name mimics the name of New York, which is the "Empire State." Before the first World Trade Center, it was known as the tallest building in New York, and today is the 54th-tallest building in the world. Travel to the top and partake of the magnificent view of New York on the 86th and 102nd stories.
Perhaps the most prominent fixture in the United States of America is the stunning neoclassic sculpture that graces Liberty Island. Gifted to the United States from France and dedicated on October 28, 1886, the statue was constructed by French sculptor Frederic Auguste Barthold and the medal framework the genius of Gustav Eiffel. The copper statue was erected to commemorate the first centennial of U.S. independence, the perseverance of American democracy, and the liberation of the nation's slaves. Ellis Island, part of the Liberty Monument, was once the busiest immigration inspection and processing station in the US. From the mid to late 1800's nearly 12 million immigrants pursuing the American Dream sought to enter this country. They were required to be healthy, able-bodied trades and craftsmen, and have a sponsor to enter. It is a poignant short ferry ride to this wonder of a destination especially so if you have family as we do, whose names are engraved there on the walls.
The Metropolitan Museum is a seemingly endless, exquisite marvel known to be the most visited museum in America. It boasts a stunning extensive collection of rare art, artifacts, sculptures, and graphic works curated from around the world and houses nearly 1.5 million objects. It is a brilliant architectural wonder itself with additional breathtaking collections of instruments, costumes, and textiles. There are often special exhibits to enjoy at this awe-inspiring wonder. It is imperative to take your time to partake of its endless treasure.
On the Upper West Side of Manhattan is the wondrous natural history museum. This museum complex houses 45 permanent exhibition halls and boasts 32 million specimens of plants, animals, fungi, fossils, minerals, rocks, meteorites, and human remains per Wikipedia. It is a fascinating tour and study of the mystery of the natural sciences with 20 interconnected buildings, 45 permanent exhibition halls, a planetarium, and a library.
Located at Pier 86 along the Hudson River, you all find the fascinating military and maritime history museum known as the USS Intrepid, a World War II-era aircraft carrier. Additionally, the cruise missile submarine was named the USS Growler. The museum spans three career decks detailing the history of military aircraft and it's history and those who have served this great nation.
McSorley’s Old Ale House has been a gathering place, a watering hole, the subject of art and literature, and even a Supreme Court controversy. Established in 1854 - McSorley’s can boast of being New York City’s oldest continuously operated saloon. Everyone from Abe Lincoln to John Lennon has passed through McSorley’s swinging doors. Woody Guthrie inspired the union movement from a table in the front — guitar in hand, while civil rights attorneys Faith Seidenberg and Karen DeCrow had to take their case to the Supreme Court to gain access. Women were finally allowed access to McSorley’s in 1970!
With its lovely Italian-inspired decor, Trattoria Dell' Arte prepares exquisite Italian fare. This cozy Tuscan trattoria is known for its infamous antipasto bar and a sprawling selection of seafood and vegetable specialties. It is a favored dining venue for concertgoers at the nearby Carnegie Hall.
Avra is nothing short of excellence in Mediterranean and Greek cuisine transporting you back to the whitewashed islands of Greece. Dining at Avra is more than just enjoying a meal it is a true experience. It is a delectable dining experience all prepared with the freshest ingredients. It's truly a delicious delight.
Rated the #1 Steak House in New York City, Sparks is recognized worldwide for its aged beef and a variety of seafood. Sparks is also credited for some of the finest wines from around the world including California, Bordeaux, and Italy. The interior of this fine restaurant is often sought-after for TV shows and films and is frequented by celebrities.
Bourbon Steak New York is Chef Mina’s love letter to the classic American steakhouse. The restaurant accomplishes all the traditions expected from a steakhouse, offering the finest cuts of premium beef and seafood complemented by a cutting-edge wine and spirits program, and using local farmers and purveyors to highlight the region’s finest ingredients.
Vibrant and unforgettable, there’s no better place to socialize, dine, and imbibe in New York City. Drop by Valerie and step into another world. Conversation flows over captivating cocktails that transcend the ordinary. Start your night with pre-dinner drinks and indulgent small bites. Or visit us for lunch, or weekend brunch featuring live music every Sunday afternoon.