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10 Best Dog-Friendly Beaches Near NYC To Visit This Summer

Grab your furry friend and get ready to hit the beach because it’s officially summer…and it’s time for your little one to frolic and cool off! Many dog owners can struggle to find permitted beaches to bring their dogs in NYC, since many of the city’s public beaches prohibits dogs during the summer months (can go on them September – May). However, we’ve put together a list of sandy spots just outside of city limits where you can take your dog off-leash, splash around in the water, and grab some waterfront views.

Here’s our favorite dog-friendly beaches near NYC you should bookmark for this summer.

1. Prospect Park Dog Beach

Source / Jordan Rathkopf

While this one isn’t really a coastal-type beach, Prospect Park Dog Beach’s is one of our favorites thanks to its dog-friendly swimming area right in the middle of the park. During the summer, pups can splash around during special off-leash hours from 6 am – 9 am and 9 pm – 1 am. Of course there’s plenty of green acres to walk them around before or after the “beach” as well as the beautiful Kensington Dog Run at the Prospect Park Parade Ground.

Where: Prospect Park (by Long Meadow Ballfield)

2. Bayshore Waterfront Park

wet dog playing in the sea with a ball in summer, golden retriever resting on the beach, travel concept, pets in nature
Source / Shutterstock

Just across the waters in Port Monmouth, New Jersey is Bayshore Waterfront Park, a scenic little waterfront park and beach that you can bring your dog to on-leash. It never seems to be crowded (which is why we love it so much) and it even has free parking and pretty nice public bathrooms. It’s the perfect little spot to pack a lunch, bring your pup and enjoy some sunshine. Hours are typically 7 am – around 8:30/9:30 based on the date.

Where: 719 Port Monmouth Rd, Port Monmouth, NJ

3. Asbury Park Dog Beach

Source / The Asbury Park Chamber of Commerce

If you’re sourcing out which Jersey Shore beach town can accommodate your dog on vacation this summer, look no further than Asbury Park. Our love for this beach is quite evident by now, and it’s amplified even more by their special Asbury Park Dog Beach. Pups are welcomed to play off-leash at their special location (during the summer) before 8:30 am and after 6 pm.

During the off-season (September – May), you can bring your dogs on the main beach as well as the boardwalk.

Where: 1738 Ocean Ave N, Asbury Park, NJ

4. Sandy Hook Beach

Sandy Hook Beach at the Gateway National Recreation Area in Highlands, New Jersey (photo by Didier Moïse)
Didier Moïse, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

Sandy Hook Beach’s unique location allows dog owners to have two different options when it comes to bringing their pup to the beach. On the bay side, dogs are allowed to run and splash around on-leash all year long. However on the beach side, dogs are only permitted during the off-season from September 15 – March 15.

Where: 100 Hartshorne Dr, Middletown, NJ

5. Larchmont Dog Beach

Source / Larchmont Manor Park

Larchmont Manor Park is located just a little north of the city in Westchester County, but it’s one of our favorite spots to take a little day trip with the furry one. The cute secluded beach welcomes dogs on leashes at all times, allowing them to splash around in the Long Island Sound to their heart’s content. It’s open all year round too which makes it convenient. Be sure to go during low tide.

Where: 118 Park Ave, Larchmont, NY

6. Montauk & East Hampton Main Beach

Man with a dogs running on the beach at sunset. Bali island, Indonesia
Source / Shutterstock

If you’re heading out east to The Hamptons this summer bookmark these two dog-friendly beaches you can stop on during your travels. Montauk Beach is accessible pretty much all the way up the Old Montauk Highway or right in the center of town. You can stroll with your dog before 9 am and after 6 pm on or off-leash. Similarly at East Hampton Main Beach, dogs can be off-leash before 9 am and after 6 pm during the summer, and can be off-leash as much as they want the rest of the year.

Where: 

Montauk Beach – 629 Old Montauk Hwy, Montauk, NY

East Hampton Main Beach – 101 Ocean Ave, East Hampton, NY

7. Little Stony Point Beach

On the riverfront of the Hudson at Little Stony Point Park with a view of Breakneck Ridge.
Source / Shutterstock

Little Stony Point Beach is one of our favorite off-the-beaten-path dog-friendly beaches and it sits along the Hudson River up near Cold Spring, NY. The local spot not only has a fairly new dog park nearby, but plenty of shaded trees, sticks to play with, and shallow waters to splash around in. 

They also host lots of events too like “Spring Cleanup Days,” “Maple Syrup Day,” and more which you can bring your pet to, as well as tons of walking trails you can conquer (on-leash).

Where: 3011 Route 9D, Cold Spring, NY

8. Atlantic Beach

Dog playing on the beach water. dog, pet, family concept.
Source / Shutterstock

Atlantic Beach is about 20ish miles from Manhattan on Long Island, and there a bit more restrictive on the dog limitations. You can bring them from October – March, or opt for nearby Nickerson Beach Park or Point Lookout Dog Park which have designated off-leash dog runs.

Where: 65 The Plz, Atlantic Beach, NY

9. Port Jefferson Beach

Source / Discover Long Island

This quaint, narrow strip of shoreline on Long Island is the perfect place to bring your dog, especially when there’s low tide. There’s plenty of rocks to climb, sand to play in, and shallow waters to splash around. It’s on the harbor side so dogs can be unleashed at the owner’s discretion, and it’s always kept pretty clean. There’s even some vendors selling goodies sometimes and it’s pretty close to the village of Port Jefferson too to walk around.

Where: Bell Circle, Port Jefferson, NY

10. Plumb Beach

Source / National Park Service

Rounding out our list another spot in Brooklyn that has some decent dog-friendly access that you can get without having to leave NYC! Dogs are allowed at Plumb Beach as long as they are kept on a leash no longer than 6 feet! This beach is often synonymous for wind sports, kite surfing, and walking paths which are fun to enjoy while you stroll along with your pup.

Where: Belt Parkway, Brooklyn

The post 10 Best Dog-Friendly Beaches Near NYC To Visit This Summer appeared first on Secret NYC.

* This article was originally published here

Ci Siamo partners with top NYC bars for terrace aperitivo series

Ci Siamo partners with top NYC bars for terrace aperitivo series

Even if you can’t summer in Italy, you can drink like you can with the new Terrazza Aperitivo series hosted by Ci Siamo, the Manhattan West pasta purveyor from chef Hillary Sterling and Danny Meyer’s Union Square Hospitality Group. And they’re toasting the season by partnering with some of New York’s most beloved barrooms.

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Throughout the summer, the Italian-inspired restaurant (440 West 33rd Street Suite #100) will offer a series of special one-night aperitivos on its stunning third-floor terrazza, to be enjoyed alongside outdoor cocktails from participating NYC bars, light bites, Empire State views and freshly spun tunes from a live DJ.

Kicking off on Thursday, July 11, the team from Peachy’s (the chic Doyers Street cocktail lounge tucked beneath Chinese Tuxedo) will take over the terrace from 5:30 to 9pm. They’d be followed by the folks from Temple Bar, that moody martini-making favorite over on Lafayette, on Sunday, August 11, from 4pm to 8pm.

The series will continue that Friday, August 16 with the bar staff from the nautically-inspired cocktail haunt and raw-bar destination Grand Army at 5:30pm to 9pm. The month will finish off with a pop-up from the acclaimed Dead Rabbit (currently the number 33 barroom in all of North America, per the World’s 50 Best list) on Sunday, August 25, from 5pm to 9pm. And for the grand finale, the playful East Village drinkery Mister Paradise will move on in on Tuesday, September 3, from 5:30pm to 9pm.  

Guests can save their spot on the terrace by RSVPing on SevenRooms. Orders for both drinks and food (the aperitivo menu includes stuff like an olive-studded pizzette and a porchetta panino) will be charged on-site.

* This article was originally published here

Long Island’s legendary Boardy Barn is popping up in NYC this summer

Long Island's legendary Boardy Barn is popping up in NYC this summer

A rite of passage for any beer-loving New Yorker, a trip out to Boardy Barn was one of the best, sloppiest things to do in the Hamptons each summer. For more than five decades, that red-and-white-striped circus tent saw roll after roll of smiley-face stickers, cup after cup of sudsy brews and as many summer break-ups as summer hook-ups. The Long Island institution may have shuttered in 2021, but those legendary Sunday afternoon parties are continuing this summer with a Boardy Barn pop-up at Houston Hall.

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Kicking off on Sunday, July 14, and happening every Sunday from 2pm to 8pm through Labor Day, Boardy Barn is partnering with the West Village beer hall to bring the spirit of the original to NYC, smiley stickers and all. “Boardy Barn fans and Boardy Barn virgins will instantly fall in love with Sundays at Houston Hall” says Tommy Cannu, lifelong Boardy Barn employee and keeper of the brand. “It’s a magical venue well known by New Yorkers, perfectly suited to host the best Sunday afternoon party in the worldcomplete with smiley stickers, photo covered walls, the best music and friends from all over.” 

Expect the cheap Bud Light specials, signature dirty water hot dogs and DJs playing the singalong-friendly playlists that you remember from your days at the Barn. (And yes, that includes a group rendition of “American Pie.”)

“The opportunity to blend two such iconic brands together for a summertime pop-up is truly remarkable,” said Houston Hall’s owner Jeremy Merrin. “Houston Hall, known for its hip NYC beer hall vibes and Boardy Barn, a true East End institution which has been missed since its closure, together makes for a true groundswell of energy just waiting to burst. We’re looking forward to putting the FUN back in Sunday Funday.”

* This article was originally published here

Hard Rock Café: Explore Times Square’s Iconic In-live Entertainment and Food Destination

Hard Rock Café is one of NYC ’s most prominent entertainment destinations in the heart of iconic Times Square. This flagship venue, nestled in the historic Paramount Theater building since 2005, blends rock ‘n’ roll history with Broadway’s energetic spirit.

With its 708-seat restaurant, a Rock Shop offering authentic Hard Rock merchandise, and an eclectic outdoor space, the café provides an unforgettable experience. From indulgent food to music treasures to an electrifying atmosphere, plenty makes this café a rocking venue.

Background on Hard Rock Café

Hard Rock Café NYC is part of a global restaurant chain that was started in 1971 by two American businessmen, Peter Morton and Isaac Tigrett. Today, Hard Rock International is a global brand with 74 venues worldwide. Opened in 2005, Hard Rock Cafe New York occupies Times Square’s landmark Paramount Theater building. Its prime location and extensive collection of music memorabilia have made this café popular among music lovers.

The restaurant’s eclectic interior showcases classic rock memorabilia, including costumes and rare photographs of rock ‘n’ roll legends. With exclusive guitars and outfits from icons like The Beatles, Elvis Presley, and Jimi Hendrix, it looks like a museum of America’s rock music history.

Location And How To Get There?

The Hard Rock Café in NYC, located at 1501 Broadway in Times Square, is easily accessible via various public transportation options.

Several MTA bus routes serve the area, including the M7, M20, M42, and M104. The Times Square-42nd Street station is always accessible by 1, 2, 3, 7, N, and Q trains, just a short walk from the café.

While parking garages are nearby, navigating Times Square by car is challenging due to heavy traffic, making taxis and rideshare services convenient alternatives.

Hard Rock Café Times Square bar area
Source: Flickr

What Can You Expect When You Visit Hard Rock Café?

On the days of live music shows, the atmosphere turns electric! To avoid the weekend rush at the café, consider visiting during morning or lunch hours for a quieter experience.

Indulge in classic American dishes like juicy burgers, smoky ribs, loaded nachos, and crispy wings. Enjoy signature cocktails such as Hurricane and Southern Rock at the bar, along with various beers and wines.

The café offers a dedicated kids’ menu, vegetarian, gluten-free, and non-alcoholic options. Convenient delivery and takeaway services allow you to enjoy your favorites wherever you are.

Along with live music shows, the café hosts various parties and events. Check the website’s schedule for special events and upcoming performances to enhance your visit.

You can also host your private party in the outdoor space above the historic marquee. Before you leave, explore the Rock Shop to purchase exclusive Hard Rock Café merchandise, including T-shirts, hats, and more.

What Else Can You Do When You Visit?

After enjoying your time at the café, you can explore Times Square, the epicenter of the Theater District. Catching a Broadway show is a must-do activity, with numerous theaters steps away from the café.

If you’re looking to explore more dining options, Times Square has an array of restaurants, from casual eateries to upscale dining. Times Square is also a haven for shopaholics, with most international brands nearby. For an engaging cultural experience, visit the nearby Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) or Madame Tussauds New York. If you’re not in the mood for anything particular, soak in the area’s bustling energy and enjoy street performances.

FAQs

Is there a cover charge for live music events in the café?

It depends on the event. Some live music performances are free with your meal, while others may require a ticket purchase. Check the event details on their website.

Are children welcome at the Hard Rock Café?

Absolutely! It is family-friendly and also offers a kids’ menu.

Can I host a private event at the Hard Rock Café?

Yes, the Hard Rock Café offers various options for private events, including corporate gatherings, birthday parties, and more.

Get ready to dine and vibe at the Hard Rock Café, a perfect fusion of eclectic experience, good food, and great music. With rock music resonating throughout, this iconic venue blends the thrill of rock ‘n’ roll with the excitement of New York City.

Whether you’re a music lover, a food enthusiast, or want to soak in the lively pulse of Times Square, there is something for everyone. Explore an extensive collection of rock memorabilia, enjoy American classics, and soak in the energetic ambience that defines this legendary destination. After a good time at the café, you can check out the shopping and entertainment options outside. You can catch a Broadway show or shop at the flagship brand stores.

It’s more than just dining—it’s a rocking adventure through music history and the vibrant spirit of NYC. This iconic venue is a must-visit when you are in the heart of Times Square.


Hard Rock Cafe Time Square NYC Dining Experience

The post Hard Rock Café: Explore Times Square’s Iconic In-live Entertainment and Food Destination appeared first on Secret NYC.

* This article was originally published here

Eataly NYC Flatiron: Your Guide to Exploring NYC’s Authentic Italian Marketplace

Eataly NYC Flatiron is a fusion of native Italian food culture and contemporary gastronomic innovations. Established in 2010, Eataly (‘Eat’+ ‘Italy’) is a popular gourmet hotspot for authentic Italian cuisine. Whether you seek a fine dining experience or a quick bite, there are multiple restaurants, bakeries, and cafes to explore.

At this Italian marketplace, you can also shop for fresh produce and sample gourmet ingredients, including fresh cheese. From experiences like wine tasting and cooking classes to guided food tours, there is plenty to explore at Eataly.

Background on Eataly NYC Flatiron

Italian entrepreneur Oscar Farinetti founded Eataly in 2007 in Torino, Italy. The concept, which celebrates authentic Italian culinary heritage in a multifunctional marketplace, garnered popularity since its inception. Today, there are 40 Eataly locations worldwide, including 3 in New York—Flatiron, Downtown, and Soho.

Eataly Flatiron opened its doors on August 31, 2010, bringing a vibrant taste of Italy to New York City. Spanning almost 42,500 square feet, this artisanal marketplace features sit-down restaurants, food counters, a beverage station, a bakery, a retail shop, and a cooking school. From traditional pastries to Italian beers, wines, and houseware, there is plenty to explore and shop here.

Where is Eataly NYC Flatiron, And How Do You Get There?

Eataly NYC Flatiron is at 200 5th Avenue in Manhattan, New York. You can reach there by:

  • Subway: The nearest subway station is 23rd Street Station. You can take the R/W, F/M, 6, or 1 train to reach 23rd Street, depending on where you board. As you exit the station, walk towards 5th Avenue.
  • Bus: You can take the M1, M2, M3, or M5 buses to reach the intersection of 5th Avenue and 23rd Street. If you are traveling from West Manhattan, take the M23 crosstown bus and get down at the 5th Avenue stop.
  • You can also take a taxi or rideshare car to Eataly NYC Flatiron or walk to the venue if you are in the neighborhood.
Salumi and formaggiat Eataly NYC Flatiron
Source: Eataly official website

What Can You Expect When You Visit Eataly NYC Flatiron?

At this happening marketplace, expect the vibe of a robust Italian piazza. During peak hours, the place is full of people sampling and dining.

The marketplace operates daily from 7:00 am to 11:00 pm, with separate restaurant hours.

If you wish to learn and explore, there are plenty of fun activities to enroll in. These include pasta workshops, cannoli workshops, and cocktail classes. Booking them online will help you choose from the many options available.

This place is perfect for families with kids because of interactive kids’ cooking classes and activities. You can enjoy watching chefs whipping up delicacies in live kitchens and request special dinners.

Enjoy the house-brewed ales and mouth-watering delicacies with enchanting views of the Flatiron district at Serra Rooftop. It is advisable to make reservations because the venue gets very crowded during weekends.

If you don’t have time for a sit-down meal, you can quickly grab takeout from food counters and restaurants or order online from the comfort of your home.

What Else Can You Do When You Visit Eataly NYC Flatiron?

The market offers many activities: from shopping for Italian pantry staples and fresh produce to getting expert advice on cheese, charcuterie, and wine pairings.

Connoisseurs embarking on a culinary and cultural tour can spend quality time here, savoring authentic Neapolitan pizza at La Pizza. Feast on the sumptuous Milanese fare in the cosmopolitan ambiance of Bar Milano. For a rich, aromatic Espresso, head straight to Café Lavazza.

If you have a sweet tooth, try Italian Tiramisu at Eataly’s pastry section, Pasticerria. Then, there is Panetteria, the bakery section where the aroma of freshly baked focaccia and croissants will envelop you.

You can also visit La Scuola, which has a culinary demonstration space and an incredible collection of Italian cookbooks. For houseware items, head to La Piazza.

After an exhilarating time at the marketplace, you can explore the iconic Flatiron Building. You can also explore Madison Square Park nearby.

Pasta-making party at Eataly
Source: Eataly official website

FAQs

What are Eataly Flatiron’s operating hours?

The marketplace is open from 7 am to 11 pm every day. Store hours are different from restaurant hours. Most restaurants accept reservations.

Does Eataly NYC Flatiron provide takeout?

You can grab takeout from many of their food counters and restaurants.

Are there kids-friendly restaurants at Eataly NYC Flatiron?

Most restaurants at Eataly have a casual setting and are perfect for a family dining experience.

Step into a ‘mini-Italy’ in the heart of NYC at Eataly NYC Flatiron! This bustling marketplace offers an immersive experience with so many activities on the plate. From the vibrant food stalls to the open kitchens and year-round rooftop bar, Eataly is a haven for socializing and savoring authentic Italian flavors.

Cheese enthusiasts can explore various cheeses, including Parmigiano Reggiano, Gorgonzola, Robiola, and Artisanal New York State Cheeses.

Whether you’re dining at one of the many restaurants, shopping for specialty ingredients, or participating in cooking classes, Eataly offers it all. Families, communities, and tourists can visit this bustling Italian market to eat, shop, learn, and bond.
It celebrates Italian cuisine at its finest, emphasizing sustainable sourcing and biodiversity. A visit to Eataly NYC Flatiron is not just a culinary journey but an unforgettable cultural experience, making it a must-visit on any NYC tour.


Flatiron Food, History, & Architecture Tour

The post Eataly NYC Flatiron: Your Guide to Exploring NYC’s Authentic Italian Marketplace appeared first on Secret NYC.

* This article was originally published here

How to see this month’s meteor shower from NYC

How to see this month's meteor shower from NYC

People don’t usually think of New York City as a prime place to go stargazing. You’re much more likely to see ambulance lights than Andromeda here, let’s be honest.

Believe it or not, though, there are a few instances each year during which the planets, stars and even meteor showers suddenly become visible even from the city. The next few months will offer just that.

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In July, you’ll be able to see two separate meteor showers. The first is the Southern Delta Aquariids, which will go from July 18 through August 21 and will peak on July 29 and 30, per Gothamist.

The other meteor shower will be Perseids, which will start on July 14 and continue through September 1, peaking on August 11 and 12. This one will be bright enough to be seen with the naked eye!

Meteor showers happen when the earth passes through a region that has greater than usual concentration of interplanetary debris, such as particles left behind by disintegrating comet, per The American Meteor Society. They happen several times a year, but if you live in a city like New York, they’re easy to miss unless you’re intentionally trying to see them. 

The best way to watch a meteor shower from the city is to find an area with less lights, like a big park or even a cemetery. Once there, you should give your eyes several minutes to adjust to the darkness, and avoid staring directly at the moon.

The The Amateur Astronomers Association hosts free public viewings if you don’t want to stargaze alone, or if you’re nervous that you’re not going to know where to look. The sessions take place across a variety of spaces, including Floyd Bennett Field in Brooklyn, Carl Schurz Park in the Upper East Side and Lincoln Center’s Hearst Plaza.

Another good resource is Pupin Physics Laboratories at Columbia, which hosts free stargazing sessions every other Friday during the academic year.

If you want to experience the meteor showers with more intensity, there are several places you can travel to just outside of New York City. The Vanderbilt Space Observatory in Long Island, for example, boasts a giant 16” meade Cassegrain style elescope for optimal stargazing.

To watch the shower with the naked eye, consider Montauk Point and the Hudson River Valley, both accessible by train from Manhattan. 

One thing’s for sure: you’re going to want to plan ahead.

* This article was originally published here