Balancing the towering skyscrapers that highlight New York’s skyline, Old Westbury House and it’s gardens invites you to step back in time and peek into New York’s opulent past.
Built in 1906 to fulfill a promise, this 200-acre home is better known today as a museum with a collection of priceless English antiques. While others might recognize it as a venue for concerts, shows, and cultural festivals.
Background on Old Westbury House
The mansion’s story goes like this: when John S. Phipps married Margarita Grace, he promised her a home in New York which would be similar to her family home in England. The result was the a 200 acres mansion now known as Old Westbury. The couple and their 4 children lived there until the estate opened it to the public in 1959.
Westbury House is a Charles II-style mansion with a red-brick and limestone accented façade. It is surrounded by formal gardens, beautiful ponds, pathways, and landscaped grounds.
The mansion has 23 rooms which house several fine antiques including furniture and artwork. A painting of Mrs. Henry Phipps and her grandson Winston is one of the highlights of the collection.
The gardens at Old Westbury are works of art in their own right. On your next visit be sure to see the Walled Garden and the Lilac walk, the ponds, the primrose path and beautifully landscaped areas that bloom from spring to fall. Don’t miss the Thatched Cottage – which was built as a child’s playhouse!
The house and its gardens have been featured in countless photographs, over 25 movies, and dozens of television shows.
Photo: Unsplash
Where is Old Westbury Gardens and how can you get there?
The Old Westbury estate is located at 71 Old Westbury Road between the I-495 Expressway and the Jericho Turnpike. It’s about 20 miles east of New York City. Think of your visit as a day trip out of the city.
If needed, special parking is available for visitors with state-issued handicap parking. If you don’t have a permit, you can drop off the visitor at the mansion and then return to the parking lot. But note that the walk from the parking area to the mansion can be quite steep, and it isn’t short. Buses for group tours may enter from 60 Post Road.
Therefore, taking public transport can be more convenient. The Long Island Rail Road stops at the Westbury station from where you could take a taxi to your destination.
What should you expect when you visit?
Old Westbury Gardens attracts horticultural enthusiasts, art students and families. Nevertheless, you should keep in mind that it’s only open for visitors between April and October. You can take a guided tour of the property or wander through the 23 rooms and the gardens on your own.
With so much history and beauty inside and outside the house, Old Westbury Gardens is popular with children and adults. Apart from people on family outings, Old Westbury is popular as a venue for cultural events, weddings, outdoor photography sessions, and educational workshops.
To avoid these crowds and enjoy a more relaxed experience, plan your visit on a weekday in the latter half of the day.
Preserving the Old Westbury Gardens is a priority and –from time to time– some sections may be temporarily closed for restorations.
All tickets (except for Old Westbury Gardens members and library pass holders) must be purchased in advance; although, children under the age of 6 have free admission to the venue. Furthermore, Old Westbury Gardens also participates in many discount ticketing programs.
Photo: Unsplash
What else can you do when you visit Old Westbury Gardens?
Old Westbury Gardens hosts educational and cultural events of all kinds for children and adults. There are painting workshops, yoga and tai-chi sessions, extended tours, gardening programs and more. You can also enjoy a picnic on the north lawn or grab a bite at the Café in the Woods. Before you leave, don’t forget to buy a souvenir at the Estate gift shop.
Nearby, don’t miss the chance to explore the charming village of Old Westbury or visit the picturesque Planting Fields Arboretum State Historic Park for more outdoor adventures.
FAQs
Can you schedule a professional photoshoot?
Yes, you can schedule a professional photoshoot for headshots, an engagement, wedding, prom, etc.
Are service animals allowed at Old Westbury Gardens?
While pets are not allowed on the premises, service animals are welcome.
What are visitor timings?
It is open every day except Tuesday from 10 am to 6 pm, with a half-hour lunch break from 1 pm to 1.30 pm.
A historic mansion nestled in lush gardens, Old Westbury House and Gardens promises an unforgettable experience. From the opulent mansion and beautiful landscaped gardens to the array of cultural events and activities, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Spend the day here and immerse yourself in an era gone by.
Essex Market is a bustling area within the Lower East Side in NYC. Within it is a mix of independent vendors comprising grocery stores, local shops, seafood shops, and spice shops, to name a few. Aside from shopping outlets, you will also find eateries, clubs, galleries, and project space.
When you step into the market, you get good quality and diverse products focused on supporting small businesses. The latter could explain why there is such a strong sense of community within the sprawling 7,000-square-foot state-of-the-art market.
Background on Essex Market
Essex Market could be celebrating 84 years or over 100 years of existence, depending on how you look at it. The current market officially opened its doors in 1940. Nevertheless, back in the 1880s there was an open-air market dominated by independent pushcart dealers. Just as nowadays, peddlers sold everything from hats to herrings, potatoes, and more.
When the number of pushcart dealers increased, congestion became a problem and Mayor Fiorello H. La Guardia thought over the perfect solution: opening a series of public indoor markets, and Essex Market was one of them. The official opening date of the vibrant market was January 9, 1940.
Foto: Shutterstock
Where is Essex Market and how to get there?
Essex Market is situated on 88 Essex Street, more precisely the Southeast corner of Essex and Delancey Streets. To get to the market, you can drive, take a taxi, the subway, or bus. The subway lines to Essex Street are J, M, and Z. To Delancy, take the F line. You can also take the bus to Essex Street, M9. For the Lower East Side, take M14 or hop onto B39 to get to Delancey Street.
What to Expect When You Visit Essex Market
There is so much to see, experience, taste, and discover at Essex Market and it should definitely be at the top of your list of places to visit in NYC. The variety of food, colorful displays, aromas, and vibrant atmosphere make it a sensory delight.
If you are a food lover, come hungry because you will have your choice of all types of foods from different parts of the world. Whether it’s dumplings, pizza, tacos, or spicy Asian food, you will be spoilt for choice.
But beyond that is the upscale charm of the market, which is quite contrary to what you would see in a traditional market. Once you have exhausted your shopping needs (or wallet), take a seat at one of the eateries and simply soak in the cool ambiance as you recharge.
Foto: Shutterstock
What else can you do when you visit?
Aside from shopping and eating the finest foods, there’s plenty more to do. Indulge your love for art at Cuchifritos Gallery to see what the local talent has to offer. Shop for souvenirs or local handmade products as a reminder of your trip to the market. You can even take cooking classes, which are normally hosted by some of the food vendors. Alternatively visit some of the popular sites located in the Lower East Side for a chance to experience the nightlife, street art and trendy shops.
When visiting Essex Market, expect a bustling atmosphere filled with diverse vendors offering fresh produce, gourmet foods, and unique artisanal products. For the true food enthusiast, booking a food tour around the Lower East Side is a must. These tours will introduce you to loads of culinary delights this area of NYC has to offer, from traditional deli fare to innovative modern cuisine.
FAQs
How big is it?
The whole market covers 37,000 square feet, which is 3 times bigger than the previous location at 120 Essex.
At what time does it open?
Essex Market is open throughout the week: Monday through Saturday, the doors are open from 8 AM to 8 PM. On Sunday, the shopping hours are between 10 AM and 6 PM. Do note, though, that the independent vendors determine their own hours.
What are some things to know before visiting the Lower East Side market?
Wear comfortable shoes since you’ll be walking around a lot, even if you are just window shopping. It’s also a good idea to bring cash because some vendors may not accept other payment modes. Finally, give yourself sufficient time to enjoy the bustling market.
Essex Market offers convenience to shoppers in a modern, upscale building. Here, you will find good food, the freshest ingredients, handmade artifacts, souvenirs, and a range of services. What you immediately notice is a sense of community that may not exist in other traditional markets. It’s hard to imagine that visiting a market can bring so much excitement, yet that is what you get at Essex Market.
Immigrant New York Food Tour: Lower Eastside, Chinatown, Little Italy
Few know about the richness of the Native American People’s culture and heritage. There are so many untold stories that simply browsing through a book will not give you all the answers. That is where the National Museum of the American Indian provides clarity with a captivating look into their history, culture, art, and way of life.
It is not just a museum, this space brings to life and celebrates the enduring spirit of the Native Americans, thus allowing for a deeper appreciation of their culture.
Background on the National Museum of the American Indian
The National Museum of the American Indian’s origins date back to 1896. While working in Arizona, a mining engineer named George Gustav began collecting native artifacts. These included literature, and artistic and historical objects from indigenous people from Central, North, and South America.
By 1916, he had such a comprehensive collection that he established a museum, which officially opened its doors to the public in 1922. People could now visit the museum exhibits and see what he had collected.
Where Is the National Museum of the American Indian and how can you get there?
The museum has three branches: one at the National Mall in Washington, D.C., another at the Cultural Resources Center in Maryland, and the one in New York City: George Gustav Heye Center at 1 Bowling Green.
To get there, take the 4 and 5 trains to the Bowling Green station. Alternatively, consider the 1 train to South Ferry or Rector Street, the J and Z trains to Broad Street, the R train to Whitehall Street, or the W train on weekdays.
The M5, M20, or M15 routes provide easy access for bus travelers. If you prefer driving, you’ll find ample metered or commercial parking options nearby as the museum does not offer parking facilities.
What to expect when you visit the National Museum of the American Indian
The wheelchair-accessible museum takes you on a fascinating tour of the Native American culture expressed through artifacts and photographs. Those in the know say that over 1,200 indigenous cultures are represented here.
You will find diverse objects in display like hunting devices, stone tools, basketry, and pottery. You will also get to see the stages in the evolution of technology from pre-European settlement times. The ingenuity and adaptiveness are displayed through utensils, toys/games, hunting gear, musical instruments, and more.
The Infinity of Nations exhibition is particularly interesting, as it contains an exciting selection of objects Gustav collected during his travels throughout America. And the temporal exhibitions offer a chance to celebrate contemporary Native American artists.
Equally captivating are the architecture, sculptures, wall paintings, and other creative expressions that tell Native American stories.
What else can you do when you visit the National Museum of the American Indian?
The imagiNATIONS Activity Center offers an interactive space for adults and kids to explore First American technologies and innovations. Also, check out the Museum store for authentic native souvenirs, merchandise, foods, literature, art, apparel, and more.
Finally, don’t leave without tasting authentic indigenous dishes at the Mili Kapi cafe on the museum’s second floor.
How much does it cost to enter the National Museum of the American Indian?
There is no fee nor do you need a ticket to enter the premises.
When does the museum open?
It opens from Monday to Sunday, 10 am to 5 pm, except for December 25th.
How much time do I need to tour the museum?
Give yourself at least 3 hours to truly appreciate the exhibits. For a more complete visit, you can join the guided tours.
Is there wheelchair access at the National Museum of the American Indian?
Yes, the museum is fully accessible to people with disabilities. They also provide wheelchairs at no cost on a first-come-first-serve basis. You can find them on the ground floor; all you need to do is request them.
The National Museum of the American Indian offers insightful glimpses into the culture and traditions of the Native American People. Gain a deeper understanding and appreciation for the rich cultural heritage of First Americans, and make a journey through their history via an anthropological collection of artifacts.
Eleven Madison Park is pretty synonymous with New York fine dining, farm-fresh ingredients—the concept fully (and controversially) transitioned to a vegan restaurant in June 2021—and tasting menu meticulousness. (The luxe dining room, which still boasts a cool three Michelin stars, took home the title of World’s Best Restaurant in 2017.) It’s less synonymous, though, with cocktails, despite the restaurant having a fully-stocked bar program. That may all change when EMP’s chef-owner Daniel Humm expands with Clemente Bar this fall.
As reported by Eater New York, the new cocktail project is billed as a “refined-casual concept” offering a “one-of-a-kind cocktail and culinary experience.” A recent job listing says that Clemente Bar is currently hiring bartenders and line cooks who can “create memorable guest experiences,” “anticipate guests’ needs,” and “recognize regulars.”
Though Humm posted about the new bar on his personal Instagram as well as the Eleven Madison Park handle, details about the exact location of Clemente are still unknown, so it’s unclear whether or not the new concept is simply a makeover of the restaurant’s existing back bar. (Overseen by beverage director Sebastian Tollius, EMP’s current bar program focuses on seasonality, with an ever-changing lineup that bends to the whim of each season—the summertime spread highlights squash, tomato, sunflower, miso and the like.)
Humm revealed during a World’s 50 Best talk on Tuesday, June 4 in Las Vegas that, along with Clemente Bar, he also has even more expansion plans and has signed a lease for a new restaurant in NYC as well. So Time Out will be keeping you up to date on all Eleven Madison Park-related plans, whether cocktail-focused or otherwise.
Artist Elisabeth Smolarz will put the flavors of Governors Island into ice cream, set to debut on the island later this month. The ice cream-centered event is called Party as Participation, and it’ll be hosted on Saturday, June 22, from 1 to 3pm. The party is free and open to all.
Back in 2012, Smolarz had an artist residency on Governors Island. For the ice cream pop-up, she’ll draw on the flavors, friendships, and artist communities she developed during that time. She’ll also celebrate the distinctive features of the island itself, such as the weeping willow tree, the lavender fields, and the beloved Governors Island sheep: Flour, Sam, Evening, Chad, and Philip Aries. The tasting event will offer a culinary journey blending elements of childhood nostalgia, art, and nature.
Expect four ice cream flavors at the event. Heads up for anybody with allergies, that the ice cream will contain dairy products.
Smolarz was born in Poland and emigrated to Germany as a teen before moving to America. Her photos, videos, and social interactions aim to explore how consciousness, perception, identity, and value are formed by one’s cultural milieu.
The event will celebrate the Lower Manhattan Cultural Council’s 50th anniversary, marking five decades of championing independent artists and fostering vibrant cultural communities. While LMCC is based in Manhattan, it has expanded its reach to represent beyond Lower Manhattan—including Governors Island—over its five decades.
Though the organization’s Party by Participation is free to attend, be sure to RSVP online in advance.
Times Square is about to get even more crowded: 1604 Broadway is a new multi-level entertainment and nightlife venue celebrating Latin culture that just opened where New York’s version of the classic Grand Ole Opry in Nashville once stood by 49th Street.
The brainchild of nightlife veterans Paul Brown and Pedro Zamora, 1604 Broadway boasts three different concepts across four floors, each one an ode to all things Latin.
Palma Verde, already open, is found on the fourth floor. Patrons can order breakfast, lunch or dinner on site until 4am on some nights (well, morning).
Broadway Pizza & Bites, on the other hand, is on the ground floor and will start welcoming guests on June 12. More of a quick-meal destination, the eatery will serve a bunch of pizze plus “gourmet bites.”
The second and third floors are home to Circo Restaurant and Nightclub, which sounds like an all-in, immersive-like theatrical experience that will also debut on June 12.
“Against the backdrop of live artistic performances and pulsating Latin beats, every dish tells a story of heritage and artistry,” reads an official press release. “As night falls, Circo’s nightclub comes alive with world-class DJs, live artists, and premium bottle service, setting the stage for an evening of unparalleled revelry and celebration.”
We imagine the the exact kind of spot that would gain traction in a neighborhood like Times Square.
“Our goal is to create more than just a venue,” said Josiah Salerno, the director of venue operations and development at 1604 Broadway, in an official statement. “We want to curate an unforgettable celebration of Latin culture that resonates with locals and tourists alike—from the quick-service gourmet bites of Broadway Pizza & Bites to the immersive theatrical experience of Circo Restaurant and Nightclub.”
Check out some photos of the various destinations within 1604 Broadway right here:
Photograph: Courtesy of 1604 BroadwayCirco at 1604 BroadwayPhotograph: Courtesy of 1604 BroadwayCirco at 1604 BroadwayPhotograph: Courtesy of 1604 BroadwayPalma Verde at 1604 BroadwayPhotograph: Courtesy of 1604 BroadwayPalma Verde at 1604 Broadway
