Over five years since closing and following a massive $39 million renovation, Far Rockaway’s public library has officially reopened and it’s looking absolutely beautiful.
Famous architecture firm Snøhetta redesigned the two-story Queens Public Library space at 1637 Central Avenue, doubling it in space and doing it justice as part of a larger Downtown Far Rockaway rezoning plan that vowed to bring in more retail, housing and overall amenities to the area.
There is much to talk about, starting with the outside of the structure, which boasts a transparent glass pyramid that functions as the main entrance.
“The façade is comprised of colored glass, with its colors gradually fading into one another, balancing transparency and translucency,” reads an official press release. “The interior railing is made of dichroic glass, creating a kaleidoscopic effect in the atrium.”
Unsurprisingly given that it is a completely modern design, the 18,000-square-foot building is environmentally friendly: the facade is built in a way that helps reduce the need for artificial lightning inside, the blue roof releases storm water from the site at a low speed and the pavement features an underfloor heating distribution system.
In terms of on-site offerings, library goers can check out a computer area, a book sorting section, a teen room and a rear yard that is accessible by the public.
An art installation by Mexican artist Pablo Helguera is also on site, paying homage to the space’s history. Dubbed “Feynman Code,” the work honors Nobel Prize winner Richard Geynman, who was raised in the neighborhood and attended the local high school.
The venue is certainly imbued with historical value: the original iteration of the library opened almost 120 years ago on August 18, 1904 and it was funded by philanthropist Andrew Carnegie. The building was destroyed in a fire in 1962 and replaced with a relatively small 9,000-square-foot library in 1968 until 2018.
Notable mention: in 2012, following Hurricane Sandy, the building served as a food pantry and supply distribution hub for local residents.
Whether you’re looking to take out some books or not, it’s worth stopping by the new Queens Public Library branch to witness its aesthetic splendor in person.
Summer is in full swing, and with fall on the horizon, there’s still time to plan your last summer weekend trip! New England (just a few hours from NYC) is an ideal location, which is home to plenty of sandy beaches, historic lighthouses, quaint boutiques, and delicious seafood. Perfect for a little escape from the hustle and bustle of NYC, we asked our friends over at Boston Uncovered to help debunk the most gorgeous small coastal towns that feel like a serene getaway.
Bookmark these New England coastal towns for your next vacation, because they are truly a breath of fresh air.
1. Newport, Rhode Island
Source / Discover Newport
The first stop on our New England road trip is in Newport, Rhode Island…whose Gilded Age mansions, stunning coastal views, and sailing culture makes it absolutely incredible. There’s plenty to do here, but we suggest starting with their incredible architecture, more specifically The Breakers, Marble House, and The Elms mansions. These historical “cottages” that America’s wealthiest used to vacation in are jaw-dropping and feel straight out of Europe.
Next, venture water-wards and stake a stroll along the Cliff Walk, a 3.5-mile pathway on the Newport’s shore offering further views of the mansions and glimpses of Easton’s and Bailey’s Beaches. Other great highlights include the International Tennis Hall of Fame, Touro Synagogue (oldest synagogue in US), and Fort Adams State Park.
End your itinerary walking around Thames Street and Bowen’s Wharf, which are each lined with seafood restaurants, boutique shops, and art galleries.
2. Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts
Source / Shutterstock
You can technically spend a week in Martha’s Vineyard, since there’s so many quaint little coastal towns you can bop around. Some of them in particular include historic Edgartown, vibrant Oak Bluffs, and bustling Vineyard Haven. During the summer, you can take a ferry from Long Island out to Massachusetts, and explore the likes of South Beach, Joseph Sylvia State Beach, and Moshup Beach, which are the most popular in the area.
Other activities to cross off your Martha’s Vineyard bucket list include stopping by Martha’s Vineyard Playhouse (historic theater), seeing the Aquinnah Cliffs and Aquinnah Lighthouse, and taking the ferry to Chappaquiddick Island to see the Mytoi Japanese Garden. Not to mention all the farm-to-table restaurants, shopping boutiques, and seasonal events.
3. Kennebunkport, Maine
Source / Visit Maine
The first of our few hand selected spots in Maine is Kennebunkport, a charming and historic town known for its maritime heritage. Start by exploring their beautiful Goose Rocks Beach and Colony Beach before checking out popular attractions like the Seashore Trolley Museum (world’s oldest and largest electric railway museum) and Walker’s Point (summer home of the Bush family). On the way to Dock Square’s boutique shops and cafes, you’ll probably pass by St. Ann’s by-the-Sea Episcopal Church, one of the most beautiful buildings you’ll ever see.
Some of our local recommendations include going on a Downeast-style lobster boat tour with Rugosa Lobster Tours, strolling down Ocean Avenue, and embarking on a whale watching tour with First Chance Whale Watch.
4. Ogunquit, Maine
Source / Visit Maine
Venture out to Ogunquit, Maine, where its popular Ogunquit Beach is the star of the show. You can go swimming and sunbathe here to your heart’s desire, and if you’re feeling adventurous even walk over to Marginal Way, an incredible cliff walk overlooking the ocean. Once you’re done by the water, head into town to explore popular attractions like Perkins Cove, a cute fishing village with shops, galleries, and seafood restaurants, as well as cultural hot spots like the Ogunquit Museum of American Art and Ogunquit Playhouse. If you have some spare time, consider doing a boat tour (which ranges from deep-sea fishing excursions to cocktail cruises)…we prefer Finestkind Scenic Cruises.
5. Mystic, Connecticut
Source / This is Mystic, CT
Just one state away in Connecticut resides Mystic, a seaside town with plenty of family-friendly attractions and charming maritime history. Popular attractions to visit (if you’re not cruising around a boat), include The Mystic Seaport Museum detailing the village’s maritime history, and the Mystic Aquarium which includes tons of marine life exhibits that are great for kids. Their Old Historic Downtown is super cute, and features all kinds of shopping, dining, and nightlife…including the famous Mystic Pizza which you must try.
6. Portsmouth, New Hampshire
Source / Shutterstock
Situated beautifully on the Piscataqua River, Portsmouth is one of New Hampshire’s coastal gems that’s full of 17th century seafront heritage. Start by exploring the Strawbery Banke Museum, an outdoor history museum depicting life from the 17th century onward, and Prescott Park, known for its beautiful gardens and summer arts festival. Then head into the town’s Market Square which offers a glimpse of their lively arts scene (The Music Hall), maritime history (USS Albacore Submarine and Museum), and shops and restaurants.
7. Block Island, RI
Source / Block Island Tourism Council
Hop on the ferry from Montauk to Block Island, and you’ll be delighted to one of the more serene coastal towns on this list. It’s a little lesser known known than other getaways on this list, and it’s one of the best for a nature-focused excursion. Their beaches (Crescent Beach, Mansion Beach, Frederick J Benson Town Beach) are some of the best in Rhode Island, offering the perfect spot to swim, snorkel, parasail, and more. Adding to the charm, the jaw-dropping Mohegan Bluffs provide stunning hiking trails and ocean views, and the Block Island Southeast Light lighthouse is iconic.
8. Rockport, Massachusetts
Source / Shutterstuck
Rockport, Massachusetts is home to all kinds of wholesome attractions, like the iconic Motif No. 1, a historic fishing shack that has become a symbol of the town. There’s plenty of idyllic maritime and natural landmarks here, including their pristine beaches, such as Front Beach and Pebble Beach, as well as Halibut Point State Park and Bearskin Neck, a notable street filled with art galleries, shops, and dining spots.
9. Narragansett, Rhode Island
Source / Shutterstock
We may be biased but Narragansett Town Beach might just be one of the best beaches in Rhode Island. Not only are the wide sandy shores perfect for swimming and lounging, but you can also catch a glimpse of the The Towers from the coast. Other lovely attractions to check off your list include exploring the historic Point Judith Lighthouse, walking down The Narragansett Pier, and having a meal at The Coast Guard House Restaurant. Narragansett is truly all about the beaches, so if you’re looking to capitalize on that head here!
10. Cape Cod, Massachusetts
Source / Shutterstock
Cape Cod may the most touristy coastal town on this list, but it still deserves the recognition it rightfully gets. The popular waterfront summer destination is out in the Atlantic Ocean and is therefore the perfect spot for all sorts of water activities and beach days. You can hop around quaint towns like Provincetown, Chatham, and Hyannis if you want to shop or eat, and you can do unique activities like whale watching, biking, and lighthouse visits to fully immerse yourself.
Some hotspots we recommend: Whydah Pirate Museum, Heritage Museums & Gardens, and Cape Cod National Seashore.
11. Gloucester, Massachusetts
Source / Shutterstock
Just northeast of Boston lies Gloucester, a spot where many tourists seem to overlook (and is our little secret). Particularly Wingaersheek Beach, which has super clear water and is really only visited by Massachusetts locals, making it serene and quiet. Alongside that, add the Cape Ann Museum, Fishermen’s Memorial, Eastern Point Lighthouse, and Good Harbor Beach to your list too. It’s our hidden gem along the Mass coast.
12. Bar Harbor, Maine
Source / Visit Maine
Just a stone’s throw away from Acadia National Park, Bar Harbor is the “connecting piece” if you will, that provides a glistening coastline and views of Cadillac Mountain. This spot is a popular weekend destination for many hikers (both in the park and along the Shore Path along the ocean) and nature lovers alike (check out lookout spot called Thunder Hole). There’s a few museums as well worth your while, including the Abbe Museum (Native American heritage) and George B. Dorr Museum of Natural History.
13. Watch Hill, Rhode Island
Source / Shutterstock
This quiet little town still packs a punch, and when you’re not off snapping photos of Taylor Swift’s $17.75M vacation home called “High Watch” you can still see some nautical landmarks including historic Watch Hill Lighthouse and the Flying Horse Carousel, one of the oldest in the country. Not to mention Watch Hill’s beaches are absolutely pristine, with the most popular one being East Beach.
After a quality beach day, head to Napatree Point, their unique village center to shop, have dinner, and grab ice cream at St. Clair’s Annex…then find a spot to watch the sunset over Little Narragansett Bay.
14. Newburyport, Massachusetts
Source / Shutterstock
Newburyport, Massachusetts may have one of our favorite downtown areas on this list…their Market Square is filled with some of the area’s best shops and art galleries. The coastal hotspot is home to the Custom House Maritime Museum, which showcases Newburyport’s maritime heritage, as well as The Parker River National Wildlife Refuge and Maudslay State Park which encourages visitors to take in the natural beauty of the town. Our perfect day recommendation is a whale watching tour and then grabbing a drink after at Newburyport Brewing Company.
15. Camden, Maine
Source / Visit Maine
Closing out our list is Camden, Maine, a charming town whose waterfront Camden Harbor is nothing short of incredible. You can take boat tours from here that let you take in the village from afar. While you’re here, be sure to plan a hike at Camden Hills State Park and take in all of the cultural elements of the city like the Maine Lighthouse Museum and Camden Public Library. This is one of the best places in Maine for an outdoor activity trip…perfect for hiking, kayaking, fishing, and boating in the harbor.
Mark your calendars for August 19th because a full supermoon—the first of the year—will illuminate NYC skies in a grand display of celestial wonder. It will reach peak illumination at 2:26pm, but you’re best bet at visibility will be after sunset. This first full supermoon of 2024 will kick off another three consecutive full supermoons to follow in September, October and November.
So what’s so different about a supermoon versus a full moon? Well for one, a supermoon can appear anywhere up to 30% brighter and 14% larger than a regular full moon, according to Space.com. This is because a supermoon occurs when it’s not only a full moon, but at the moon’s closest distance from Earth in its orbit, otherwise knows as its perigee. And though that sounds like a lot, the difference isn’t always noticeable to the naked eye.
Shutterstock / gary718
August’s full supermoon will only be 224,917 miles from Earth. For context, the moon on average is about a 238,00 mile distance from Earth. And though that’s more than 10,000 miles closer than normal, August’s Sturgeon Moon wont be the closest full supermoon of the year. That will be in October, when the Hunter’s Moon is just 222,055 miles away from Earth.
Curious as to why the moon can sometimes be closer to the Earth in some month’s orbit than others? That’s because gravitational and/or tidal forces don’t allow the moon’s orbit to be a perfect circle, thus leading to a different range of distances between the moon and Earth each month.
The next full supermoon after August will be the Harvest Moon on September 17th. From there you can keep your eyes out for the remaining full supermoons of 2024 on October 17th and November 15th.
It’s (almost) the most wonderful time of the year: fall in New York, when the heat starts to subside, folks return from the Hamptons, new restaurants open and the theater world’s most exciting productions debut. Regarding that last bit: Girls star and overall beloved actor Adam Driver is set to star in Kenneth Lonergan’s newest Off Broadway revival, Hold on to me Darling.
The limited, 13-week engagement will be directed by Neil Pepe with preview performances kicking off on September 24 and an official opening night scheduled for October 16. The show will take over the historic Lucille Lortel Theatre through December 22.
Tickets for the play are currently on sale starting $99 right here.
According to a press release, Driver will take on the role of country music icon Strings McCrane, who “finds himself in an existential tailspin” after learning of his mother’s passing.
“The only way out, he decides, is to abandon superstardom in favor of the simple life, so he moves back to his hometown in Tennessee,” reads the release. “The simple life turns out to be anything but simple in this brilliantly observed tragicomedy, as the consequences of Strings’s success and mind-bending effects of his fame prove all but impossible to outrun.”
No word yet on who will star in the production alongside Driver.
This isn’t Drive’s first rodeo on an Off-Broadway stage: in 2009, he starred in Slipping and The Retributionists. A year later he took on roles in Little Doc and The Forest. He also appeared in the Off-Broadway production of Angels in America in 2010 and 2011 and Look Back in Anger in 2012, which was mounted at the Roundabout Theatre Company.
The actor has also appeared on Broadway show like Mrs. Warren’s Profession, Man and Boy and Burn This.
This SeptemberPost Malone, Doja Cat, LISA of BLACKPINK, Rauw Alejandro, and Jelly Roll are set to headline the 12th iteration of Global Citizen Festival, and did you know you could get into the festival to see these artists perform for free?!
For 10+ years Global Citizen Festival has been allowing festivalgoers to earn free tickets to the festival by taking action on the Global Citizen app–such as signing petitions, making donations, taking quizzes, and more.
Here’s everything you need to know about how to get free Global Citizen Festival tickets:
Are all Global Citizen Festival tickets free?
No, not all tickets to Global Citizen Festival are free, but you can earn yourself a pair of free tickets!
Beyond free tickets, Global Citizen Music Festival also sells the following tickets:
General Admission: Guaranteed general admission into the festival
Global VIP: VIP section with special entrance, concessions, and restroom facilities
Ultimate VIP: Backstage tent access with gourmet catering, open bar, private restrooms, private entry, and prime viewing
Source / Global Citizen Festival
How can I get free Global Citizen Festival tickets?
Free tickets to Global Citizen Festival can be earned by taking action online or on the Global Citizen app to demand change from governments and private sector leaders.
Each action you take will earn you points that translate into entries into the festival’s ticket draw. The good news: multiple draws take place so you’ll have more than one chance to earn yourself some free tickets.
Plus, beyond Global Citizen Festival tickets you can also win stylish fashion items, eco-friendly products, once-in-a-lifetime experiences, and more!
Please note: You must take action every month or you’ll drop back down to the base level.
Source / Global Citizen Festival
What actions do I need to take to earn Global Citizen Festival tickets?
Actions include signing petitions, making donations, posting on Instagram, taking quizzes, and more. This year, global citizens are calling for urgent action to:
Defeat Poverty
Defend the Planet
Demand Equity
So far, 34 million actions have been taken positively impacting 1.29 billion lives.
If you’re not interested in attending the festival but would still like to make a donation to directly support Global Citizen’s campaigning, you can do so here. And you can learn more about the festival here.
No one thinks that living in New York City is cheap, but not everyone might realize just how not cheap it really is.
According to a survey conducted by RentCafe, $1,500 in Manhattan will get you about 228 square feet of living space on average—that’s about the size of a big master bedroom, or a very, very tight one bedroom apartment.
You’ll get slightly more space in other boroughs for $1,500: 300 square feet in Brooklyn and 370 square feet in Queens. Still not a lot, but significantly more than in Manhattan. Plus, there’s plenty of entertainment and dining options in those boroughs that absolutely give Manhattan a run for its money (literally).
If you’re down to look for a place to rent outside of the city, Rochester offers the most space on a $1,500 budget, according to the survey: a whopping 930 square feet. Second on the list was Buffalo, where you can get an 881 square foot apartment for that price.
Other cities across the country where $1,500 wouldn’t get you much included Miami (533 square feet), Seattle (456 square feet) and San Diego (442 square feet).
On the flip side, towns that offer pretty decent-sized homes for that price include Little Rock (1,299 square feet), Oklahoma City (1,300 square feet) and McAllen in Texas (1,423 square feet).
