The Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge is a double-decked suspension bridge that connects the New York City boroughs of Staten Island and Brooklyn. It spans the Narrows, a body of water that separates the two boroughs, and is named after the explorer Giovanni da Verrazzano, who was the first European to enter New York Harbor in 1524. The bridge was designed by Othmar Ammann, who was also the chief engineer of the George Washington Bridge, and was completed in 1964. At the time of its completion, it was the longest suspension bridge in the world with a main span of 4,260 feet. The bridge has six lanes of traffic on the upper level and three on the lower level, and is a major transportation link for commuters and commercial vehicles. The bridge also offers a spectacular view of the New York City skyline and the harbor. The bridge's opening ceremony was attended by various dignitaries including Robert Moses, the powerful NYC Parks commissioner and urban planner who had pushed for the construction of the bridge. The bridge is considered as an engineering marvel and a significant transportation link in the New York City.

The Central Park Zoo is a popular destination in New York City, attracting thousands of visitors every year. It was originally opened in the late 1800s and has been through several renovations and upgrades over the years.
The zoo covers an area of 6.5 acres and is home to over 130 species of animals, including penguins, sea lions, monkeys, and red pandas, among others. Some of the highlights of the zoo include the sea lion pool, which offers visitors an up-close view of these fascinating marine mammals, and the Tisch Children's Zoo, which is designed for families with young children and features domesticated animals, interactive exhibits, and a petting area.
In addition to showcasing a variety of animals, the Central Park Zoo is also dedicated to educating visitors about wildlife conservation and animal behavior. The zoo offers various educational programs, including animal encounters and behind-the-scenes tours, as well as interactive exhibits and hands-on activities. Overall, the Central Park Zoo is a fun and educational destination for families and visitors of all ages

Governors Island is a 172-acre island located in New York Harbor, just a short ferry ride from Manhattan and Brooklyn. The island has a rich history, having been used as a military base, a quarantine station, and a Coast Guard station over the centuries. In recent years, it has been transformed into a public park and recreational destination. The island features several notable attractions, including the Governors Island National Monument, which includes the historic Castle Williams and Fort Jay, both of which date back to the early 19th century and offer a glimpse into the island's military past. The island also has a number of outdoor sculptures and art installations, including "The Hills," a series of man-made hills that offer panoramic views of the harbor and the city skyline. Governors Island is also home to several parks and green spaces, including Hammock Grove, which features over 50 hammocks for visitors to relax in, and the Island's 14 acres of public parkland. It also has several playgrounds, sports fields, and courts for basketball, soccer, and handball. Governors Island is also home to several cultural institutions such as the Figment Festival, an annual arts festival, and the Figment Art Park. It also hosts various events throughout the year, including concerts, festivals, and outdoor movie screenings.
Governors Island is easily accessible by ferry, with a ferry terminal located at the Battery Maritime Building in Manhattan and at Brooklyn Bridge Park. The island is open to the public from May to September, with free ferry service from Manhattan and Brooklyn.
Governors Island is a unique destination that offers a mix of history, culture and recreation, making it a great place to spend a day with family and friends. Its location in New York harbor makes it an ideal spot to take in the panoramic views of the Manhattan skyline and the Statue of Liberty.

The New York Vietnam Veterans Memorial is a memorial located in New York City that honors the men and women who served in the Vietnam War. The memorial features a series of excerpts etched into the walls of the memorial. These excerpts were chosen from letters, diary entries, and poems written by Americans during the Vietnam Era and were submitted to the New York Vietnam Veterans Memorial Commission. These quotes are supplemented by news dispatches and public statements about the war.
The excerpts were chosen to provide a diverse representation of the feelings, thoughts, and experiences of those who served during the Vietnam War. They reflect the range of emotions felt by soldiers and their families, from the pride and patriotism of those who served, to the pain and sorrow of those who lost loved ones in the conflict. The Memorial serves as a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made by the veterans of the Vietnam War and their families.
The location of the Memorial is significant as it is located one block east of Fraunces Tavern, where George Washington bade farewell to his officers at the end of the Revolutionary War. This location is symbolic of the connection between the sacrifice made by veterans of the Revolutionary War and the sacrifice made by veterans of the Vietnam War. It is a reminder that the sacrifices made by American veterans are not limited to a single war, but are an ongoing part of American history.

Coney Island is a New York City neighborhood that features an amusement area that includes 35 or more separate rides and attractions; it's not a centrally managed amusement park like Disneyland or Six Flags. As a result, specific questions about rides, filming privileges, etc., should be directed to individual businesses. This website is maintained by Coney Island USA, the not for profit arts organization that runs the Mermaid Parade, the Sideshow and the Coney Island Museum, among other programs.

New York Aquarium - where the City meets the Sea. As the only aquarium in New York City and part of the largest network of metropolitan wildlife parks in the country, the New York Aquarium holds a special place in the mission of the Wildlife Conservation Society - To save wildlife and wild places around the globe.

Family Fun and Open Skate Hours

Grand Central Terminal turns 100 in 2013 and the celebration is starting the party early with the 11th annual Holiday Train Show! In a brand new layout by Lionel, model Metro-North and New York Central trains depart from a miniature Grand Central on their way North on a 34' long, two-level "O" gauge layout. Vintage model trains from the Museum's collection are on display joined by stunning New York Central railroad posters harkening back to Grand Central's heyday as the nexus of long distance and commuter train travel. Presented by New York Transit Museum.
Grand Central has become a midtown destination for five exquisite restaurants and cocktail lounges, 20 casual international eateries in the lower level Dining Concourse, gourmet foods from the Grand Central Market and the 50 unique specialty shops throughout the concourses, all in to addition to transportation.
Grand Central has also transformed itself into a venue for ongoing public events. Throughout the year, Vanderbilt Hall, the Terminal's 12,000 square foot former Main Waiting Room, is the site for ongoing free promotions and entertainment ranging from tennis exhibits to the annual Holiday Fair which brings 72 craftsmen, artisans and international importers to the Terminal selling an outstanding array of merchandise for holiday gifts.

The particular cleft is the valley and brook between Emerson and Grymes Hills. This valley was deepened by the glacier 20,000 years ago. The brook which ran through the valley originated in Clove Swamp and ran to the Kill Van Kull. The damming of this brook over the years created the different lakes and ponds in the area.

Experience the beauty of Queens Botanical Garden (QBG), the place where people, plants, and cultures meet. Set on 39 acres in theheart of New York City's largest borough, the Garden is an oasis of green space serving our nations's most ethnically diverse county. More then 60 years after its birth as an exhibit at the 1939 New York World's Fair, QBG continues to welcome an international audience with rose, bee, herb, and perennial gardens, changing displays, and public programs accessible to all. QBG is just steps away from some of the finest ethnic restaurants in New York City and the cultural attractions of Flushing Meadows Corona Park, home of the 1939 and 1964 New York World's Fairs

The New York Public Library (NYPL) is a public library system in New York City, and one of the largest public library systems in the United States. The system is made up of four research libraries and 87 branch libraries located throughout the Bronx, Manhattan, and Staten Island. The main branch of the NYPL is the Stephen A. Schwarzman Building, located on 5th Avenue and 42nd Street in Manhattan. This iconic building, also known as the "Main Branch" or the "New York Public Library," is a National Historic Landmark and a symbol of New York City. It features a grand marble entrance hall, ornate chandeliers, and stunning architecture. Inside, the library is home to many notable collections, including the Berg Collection of English and American Literature, the Theatre Collection, and the Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture.
The library is open to the public and offers a wide range of services, including free access to books, journals, newspapers, and other materials, as well as free Wi-Fi, computers, and other technology. The library also offers various educational programs and events, including workshops, lectures, and book clubs.,br/> The NYPL also provides access to a vast collection of digital resources, including e-books, journals, and research databases. The library's digital collections include millions of items, such as manuscripts, maps, photographs, and more, that can be accessed online.
The New York Public Library is more than just a place to borrow books, it is a cultural institution that serves as a vital resource for the people of New York City, providing access to knowledge and information, as well as fostering lifelong learning, cultural engagement, and community connections.

Winter, lights twinkling on the tree, skaters gliding across the ice, carols ringing in the air and the annual Radio City Christmas Spectacular.
Rockefeller Center is the nation's favorite Christmas destination. The spirit of the laborers who decorated the first tree on the site almost seventy years ago lives on in the giant, gloriously lit spruce that graces the Plaza throughout the holiday season. The tree lighting ceremony draws huge crowds eagerly awaiting the official start of the season. And for weeks, happy kids and harried commuters are stopped in their tracks by the sight of the gossamer angels with golden trumpets and the sound of music in the winter air.
This year, the Radio City Christmas Spectacular celebrates 85 magical years of the Rockettes and will perform to cities outside of New York including Nashville, Chicago, Dallas and St. Louis.
America's most popular entertainers have thrilled audiences at Radio City Music Hall since its doors opened December 27, 1932. Frank Sinatra, Ella Fitzgerald, Sammy Davis Jr. and Tony Bennett to mention only a few of the celebrities and luminaries to grace the Great Stage.

Operating since 1905, the Staten Island Ferry is one of the oldest continuously operating ferry systems in the United States. The ferries operating on this route are equipped with services such as refreshment points, rest areas and toilets. The journey from one terminal to the other takes about 25 minutes. The ferry is also an alternative to the car as it offers a convenient and reliable way to travel between the two parts of the city without traffic jams. Additionally, the ferry is an important part of New York City's transportation infrastructure and helps reduce congestion on the area's freeways.
The Staten Island Ferry is a unique and distinctive feature of New York City that continues to play an important role in the city's transportation network.

A distinguished Smithsonian Affiliate, is Staten Island's premier destination for culture and entertainment. Set within a stunning 83-acre park-like setting, Snug Harbor presents a unique blend of gardens, museums, theaters, educational opportunities, and seasonal festivals.
Snug Harbor's historic grounds and Greek Revival buildings house arts organizations with the area's most vibrant and intriguing activities, providing numerous ways for visitors of all ages and backgorunds to explore. The richness of this captivating environment truly makes Snug Harbor the heart of Staten Island's social life and a must-see destination in the region.

Kayak Staten Island is an all-volunteer organization providing free kayaking for the public at the shoreline on South Beach in Staten Island.
Depending on attendance, there may be a wait for a boat to become available. Try-outs are limited to 15 minutes; it is first-come-first-served but paddlers are allowed to get back in line for another spin.

At the core of Kaufman Astoria are seven column-free stages including a mammoth 26,000 square foot stage - the largest east of Hollywood. Our newest addition is Stage K with over 18, 000 square feet. In addition, there are two stages over 12,000 square feet each, and smaller stages of 8,000, 4,000 and 3,000 square feet. Support facilities are located just steps from each stage for efficient flow of crew and materials.

Brooklyn Botanic Garden, called “the premier horticultural attraction in the region” by The New York Times, is New York City’s natural wonder, where no matter what the season, something is always in bloom. Stroll the many gardens within the Garden. Enjoy the serenity of the Japanese Hill-and-Pond Garden, tour the fragrant Cranford Rose Garden, bring the family to explore the children’s Discovery Garden, or visit the Steinhardt Conservatory, containing the world famous C.V. Starr Bonsai Museum. Visit the Terrace Café and Garden Gift Shop.

This non-profit center encourages environmental and educational awareness. A Long Island oasis, it advocates sustainable environmental policies and practices. Entrance and parking are free! The nature trails have many environments to be explored. Some of these include ponds and salt marshes where one can see shore birds and many small animals. Alley Pond Park, in which this New York attraction is located, also features a children’s adventure course; New York City's largest ropes course, a zip-line, a rock-climbing wall, and balance platforms in a beautiful woodland setting. There are many places to BBQ, run, bike and watch birds. The park itself sits on a beautiful 657 acres. Easily accessible from virtually any neighborhood in the city by car, bicycle or public transportation, there is every reason to come and spend a day relaxing, learning and exploring in this sublimely serene setting. A slice of paradise right here in Queens, it is home to the tallest tree in New York City, known as the “Queens Giant”, a tulip poplar approximately 350-450 years old and a stunning 133 feet tall. You can also dip your toes in Oakland Lake, 15,000 year old glacial pond fed by underground springs. It’s easy to lose the cares of the day in the beauty of this vast, colorful and unique Queens natural attraction.

Let your wild side reign free as you explore the many faces of some very unique creatures at this Brooklyn museum of life. Venture deep into the jungle as you see the animals up close. Dare to spend the day with the valor of a lion roaming with his pride. A family spending time together, appreciating nature in all its ferocious glory is what this NYC museum is all about. Take the children to the discovery center where they can try their hand at some basic veterinary skills while conducting check-ups on real live animals. Then, head over to the young naturalist camping area, cook food on a "campfire", and explore using field guides for animals that one might see on a camping trip. Feeling the urge to feed some of the animals’ springtime is the perfect time to head over and feed the sea lions - they just love the attention too. Weekends are an ideal time to visit as you can chat live with the zookeepers and learn how they care for the animals. Maybe even find out what your favorite animal does when you're not there. Overall, this taste of the wild offers a wide variety of things to do, see and learn. Spring/Summer 2012 is a great time to come see this gem.

Flushing Meadow Corona Park is one of the greatest places in New York City. It has become the keystone park of Queens and a recreation and cultural hub for the region; yet, it was once just a dusty wasteland, "a valley of ashes" as F. Scott Fitzgerald dubbed it in the Great Gatsby. Its poetic, phoenix-like transformation from ash dump to oasis was driven by Queens' residents, the City and 1939 and 1965 World's Fair held in this park. These fairs put this park on the world's stage, and it has stayed there, hosting the United Nations General Assembly for five years, three baseball World Seres at Shea Stadium, and the U.S. Open.

The Bronx is a microcosm of the story of America. The only one of New York City's five boroughs that is actually part of the mainland. The Bronx is home to 1.2 million people with a rich diversity of ethnic and cultural backgrounds. Since colonial days, The Bronx has stood at the crossroads of American History.
The Bronx County Historical Society was founded in 1955 to preserve the heritage of this thriving community. The Society administers the colonial era Valentine-Varian House, which serves as the Museum of Bronx History; The Bronx County Archives; an extensive Research Library; and Poe Cottage, the final home of America's great 19th century poet and author, Edgar Allan Poe. Both historic houses are listed in the National Register of Historic Places

The New York Botanical Gardens is a premier educational institution. Located just a brisk 25 minute bicycle ride from Sound View Park via Dr. Theodore Kazimiroff Blvd, this NYC attraction is surprisingly bicycle accessible and encourages travel as such. The Gardens offers many educational programs including the opportunity to graduate with certificates in botany, floral design and horticulture, just to name a few. Ongoing hands-on gardening activities for the whole family are also available, so check their schedule online, or just give them a call. The Everett Children’s Adventure Garden is a year-round world of its own, boasting mazes, larger than life flowers, and many real time activities for your curious explorer. A prize bloom in the collection of Bronx attractions, it also actively participates in community outreach programs that expand nutritional education. Make sure you check out the Green Market, which carries a variety of produce available for purchase. Health-related screenings offered the 2nd Wednesday of every month by staff from both Montefiore Medical Center and St. Barnabas Hospital are another of the services that demonstrates their involvement in the surrounding communities. Their dedication to the conservation of the plants and fungi of the world through various scientific research associations places them on the world map.

Bargemusic is a unique concert venue located in Brooklyn, New York, moored just under the Brooklyn Bridge. The venue is housed on a renovated coffee barge and offers a wide range of musical performances up to five days a week, every week of the year. The intimate wood-paneled concert hall has a capacity of around 150 people, providing a truly unique and special experience for concert-goers.
The acoustics of the hall are excellent, making it the perfect venue for chamber music. The venue is praised for its acoustics by both critics and performers alike. Critics have called it "the perfect chamber-music hall" while artists say that it is "unlike any other place in the world to perform." The concert hall also offers stunning views of lower Manhattan, making it an ideal location to enjoy a concert while admiring the Manhattan skyline.
Bargemusic is a unique and exciting venue that offers a wide range of musical performances, from classical to contemporary, and the experience of the concert is enhanced by the wonderful views and acoustics of the hall. The experience of attending a concert at Bargemusic is truly one-of-a-kind, and it is a must-visit destination for music lovers visiting New York City.

The USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center is located in Flushing, in the New York City borough of Queens and has been the home of the US Open Grand Slam tennis tournament played every year in August and September. According to the United States Tennis Association, the center is the largest public tennis facility in the world with 22 courts inside the facility and 11 more in the adjoining park. All 33 courts have used the DecoTurf cushioned acrylic surface since the facility was built in 1978. Source: en.wikipedia.org

The best way to connect to nature in New York City is by visiting the Bronx Zoo, the world’s largest urban zoo. With world-class exhibits such as the Wild Asian Monorail, the Tiger Mountain, the Congo Gorilla Forest and the newest exhibit, Madagascar, the Bronx Zoo features more than 600 different species, including mammals, birds, reptiles & amphibians and insects. Check the daily schedule of feedings and enrichment demonstrations and then customize your trip with their interactive trip planner. Find your inner animal on the Animal Activity Trail; watch amazing aerial tricks at the World of Birds; experience a very unique form of New York City transit when you ride a camel around Wild Asia Plaza; feed and watch Magellanic penguins come out of their dens and bob for fish; watch one of the most popular attractions, the Sea Lion feeding and training demonstration; visit the Butterfly Garden, a wild meadow and spacious greenhouse where you can identify different butterflies, smell the flowers and learn how to plant a nectar-rich garden. No matter how you plan your trip to the Bronx Zoo.

Aqueduct Race Track, also known as Aqueduct Racetrack or simply Aqueduct, is a horse racing track located in Queens, New York. The track is part of the New York Racing Association (NYRA) and is open for live racing throughout the year. The track has three separate tracks: a main dirt track, an inner turf course and an outer turf course. Aqueduct is home to several major horse racing events throughout the year, including the Wood Memorial Stakes, the Gotham Stakes, and the Cigar Mile Handicap. These events attract some of the top horses and jockeys in the sport and offer significant purse money to the winners. The track also hosts the New York Racing Festival, which features several graded stakes races.
The track was originally opened in 1894, and has undergone several renovations and expansions over the years. In 2011, Aqueduct opened the Resorts World Casino New York City, which is now the largest casino in New York City and the only one in the five boroughs of New York City. The casino offers electronic slot machines and table games, and has a wide variety of dining and entertainment options.
Aqueduct Race Track is easily accessible by public transportation, with the A train subway line stopping at the Aqueduct-North Conduit Avenue station, which is a short walk from the track. The track also has a large parking lot for those who choose to drive.

In 1960, the Perkins-Freeman family deeded Wave Hill to the City of New York; Wave Hill, Inc., was formed in 1965 as a non-profit corporation. Today, as one of 33 City-owned cultural institutions, Wave Hill provides an oasis of serenity and offers programs in Horticulture, Environmental Education, Woodland Management and the Visual and Performing Arts. Through the arts and sciences, Wave Hill seeks to foster connections between people and nature.

At the beginning of the 2009 Major League Baseball season the new Yankee Stadium opened its doors when the Yankees hosted a workout day in front of fans from the Bronx community. The first game at this brand new ballpark was a pre-season exhibition game against the Chicago Cubs, played on April 3, 2009, which the Yankees won 7-4. The new Yankee Stadium is located in the Bronx, across the street from the original Yankee Stadium. It is built on a 24 acre area and has a price tag of $1.5 billion, which makes it not only the most expensive baseball stadium ever built but also the third-most expensive stadium of any kind.
Have the time of your life when you participate on the Yankee Inside Experience program, where fans are treated to a game day like never before. Guests attending the program are provided with an opportunity to meet with a player on the Yankees current roster followed by a guided stadium tour and buffet lunch.

A new ice rink offering public skating 7 days/week and skating classes for all ages and levels throughout the winter season!