At 5:00am, as early morning deliveries are made to stores all over NYC, a special load of merchandise is delivered on West 28th Street between 6th and 7th Avenues.
FLOWERS!
I was going to write all about the Flower District in my next post, but my favorite blogger did it for me!
Check out this AWESOME description of the New York City Flower District:
"The Jungles of West 28th Street - Exploring NY's Flower District"
And check out his website while you're at it. He has really fantastic posts about secrets hidden in plain sight in New York City.
Wednesday, August 24, 2011
Tuesday, August 16, 2011
AC + Subway Station = A Relief!
If you have traveled on the Subways during the summer, you will understand when I say that the stations are stifling hot!!!
The Subway stations in NYC are incredibly difficult during the summer. As I stand on the platform praying for the next train to arrive soon, I pace back and forth on the platform so I can create a small wind to cool me down.
Subways stations are at least 10 degrees hotter than the street, primarily because there is no circulation, and also because of the exhaust from the Subway cars.
Last week, I discovered the one and only air conditioned subway station in New York City!
42nd and Lexington (4, 5, 6, 7 trains) is located beneath Grand Central Station. A brilliant person (to whom many New Yorkers are forever grateful) decided to pump the air conditioning that cools down Grand Central into the Subway station below.
The station does not have an "air conditioned" feel, but it most certainly is bearable! And if you stand in the right spot, you can get the impact of the air conditioned air from the vent.
Happy traveling!
Friday, August 12, 2011
Secret Water Tunnel!
I decided to take a little detour on my way home from school today. Instead of transferring from the F train to the D and then to the 1 train, I decided to walk from the F train stop to the 1 train stop. (If you didn't understand that, that's ok. You need to be a seasoned New Yorker to understand Subway lingo).
As I walked down 50th street towards Seventh Avenue, I noticed a really cute little seating area in between two buildings!
Wait, what's that thing straight ahead? (Look closely at the picture, and you'll see what I'm talking about).
It looks like a tunnel... let's check it out a little closer:
It is a tunnel!
But a very unique, amazing, secret, WATER TUNNEL!!!
Located between 6th and 7th Avenues, this water tunnel is slim passageway through 48th to 49th streets.
As the water cascades down the slate wall over the tunnel, it splashes around the glass, creating a breathtaking and serene space.
It takes just a few seconds to pass through, but the tunnel has an unbelievably captivating effect. As I stood in the tunnel, I did not hear the cars honking, garbage trucks roaring or construction workers drilling... all I heard was water. It is an enchanting experience which lasts only for a second as you pass through.
All that's missing is fish swimming about in the water :-).
I love watching people pass through the tunnel and gasp in amazement at the effect. One guy was minding his own business, and as he passed through the tunnel he looked up in surprise. His eyes lit up, let out a laugh, and said with excitement, "this is so cool!"
Just another awesome secret in the middle of the fabulous New York City!
The Water Tunnel at 48th Street
48th to 49th Streets, between Sixth and Seventh Avenues
As I walked down 50th street towards Seventh Avenue, I noticed a really cute little seating area in between two buildings!
Wait, what's that thing straight ahead? (Look closely at the picture, and you'll see what I'm talking about).
It looks like a tunnel... let's check it out a little closer:
It is a tunnel!
But a very unique, amazing, secret, WATER TUNNEL!!!
Located between 6th and 7th Avenues, this water tunnel is slim passageway through 48th to 49th streets.
As the water cascades down the slate wall over the tunnel, it splashes around the glass, creating a breathtaking and serene space.
It takes just a few seconds to pass through, but the tunnel has an unbelievably captivating effect. As I stood in the tunnel, I did not hear the cars honking, garbage trucks roaring or construction workers drilling... all I heard was water. It is an enchanting experience which lasts only for a second as you pass through.
All that's missing is fish swimming about in the water :-).
I love watching people pass through the tunnel and gasp in amazement at the effect. One guy was minding his own business, and as he passed through the tunnel he looked up in surprise. His eyes lit up, let out a laugh, and said with excitement, "this is so cool!"
Just another awesome secret in the middle of the fabulous New York City!
The Water Tunnel at 48th Street
48th to 49th Streets, between Sixth and Seventh Avenues
Thursday, August 4, 2011
Mystery Sound...
There is a mysterious sound emanating from the heart of Times Square. If you don't know its exact location, you will never be able to find it. It exists beneath your feet, under heavy grating, within an underground vault, and is constantly droning on and on and on. It is impossible to describe it exactly, but it sounds something like the cacophony of New York City all blended together.
It is one of the most AMAZING secrets in NYC.
This sound is actually a work of art - Max Neuhaus's sound instillation on the pedestrian island of 46th street and 7th Avenue, entitled Times Square.
There is no plaque stating that it exists, and many of you have probably walked right passed it without realizing that it's there. There is no visual component either; it is just a droning tone emanating from the ground. You probably thought that it was noise from a large machine nearby or perhaps from the Subway.
And you are not wrong.
Neuhaus studied the sounds of NYC, especially the sounds of the Subway tunnel beneath that part of Times Square. He then created a machine that would amplify the sounds and their resonances so they could be heard above ground. He hid the machine beneath the grating, and left it for New Yorkers and tourists to discover and experience.
Here is a picture of Neuhaus entering his Times Square instillation:
It's confusing, interesting, pleasing and exciting all at once. Again, there is no sign and most people do not know it exists. I URGE you to check it... and then post in the comments what you think!
Also, check out this awesome article that explains Neuhaus's sound instillation in Times Square in more detail.
It is one of the most AMAZING secrets in NYC.
This sound is actually a work of art - Max Neuhaus's sound instillation on the pedestrian island of 46th street and 7th Avenue, entitled Times Square.
There is no plaque stating that it exists, and many of you have probably walked right passed it without realizing that it's there. There is no visual component either; it is just a droning tone emanating from the ground. You probably thought that it was noise from a large machine nearby or perhaps from the Subway.
And you are not wrong.
 |
| credit: gxjupitterlarsen.files.wordpress.com |
Neuhaus studied the sounds of NYC, especially the sounds of the Subway tunnel beneath that part of Times Square. He then created a machine that would amplify the sounds and their resonances so they could be heard above ground. He hid the machine beneath the grating, and left it for New Yorkers and tourists to discover and experience.
Here is a picture of Neuhaus entering his Times Square instillation:
 |
| credit: www.timessquare.com |
It's confusing, interesting, pleasing and exciting all at once. Again, there is no sign and most people do not know it exists. I URGE you to check it... and then post in the comments what you think!
Also, check out this awesome article that explains Neuhaus's sound instillation in Times Square in more detail.
Tuesday, August 2, 2011
Cobblestone, Flower Boxes and Colorful Doors
I found a treasure in Greenwich Village!
The treasure lies behind this brick gate which I discovered when I took myself on a walking tour of the neighborhood.
The treasure is a secret alley called Washington Mews.
I was so excited when I came across this little cobblestone alleyway. The moment I stepped through the brick gate, I was transported to another era. I learned quickly that I must walk slowly through this alleyway (unlike my typical brisk city walk). I just strolled down the street and took it all in. I could almost hear the "clip-clop" of the horses trotting on the cobblestones.
Check out the colorful doors, and the flower boxes overflowing with a fantastic array of flowers in the windows.
Notice the ivy creeping up the walls, and the antique light fixtures above the doorposts.
Washington Mews is one of the last private streets still open to the public (many have gone under lock and key, open only to residents or special guests). Be sure to check it out!
Washington Mews is located off University Place just past 8th street in Greenwich Village.
The treasure lies behind this brick gate which I discovered when I took myself on a walking tour of the neighborhood.
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| Credit: bridgeandtunnelclub.com |
The treasure is a secret alley called Washington Mews.
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| Credit: forgotten-ny.com |
This 19th century alleyway was originally a mews (horse stables) that serviced the homes in the area, hence the name Washington Mews. In 1916, they were remodeled as artist studios. Today, they are part of the New York University campus.
 |
| credit: nycppl.com |
I was so excited when I came across this little cobblestone alleyway. The moment I stepped through the brick gate, I was transported to another era. I learned quickly that I must walk slowly through this alleyway (unlike my typical brisk city walk). I just strolled down the street and took it all in. I could almost hear the "clip-clop" of the horses trotting on the cobblestones.
 |
| Photo by Randy Aveille | Credit: www.examiner.com |
Notice the ivy creeping up the walls, and the antique light fixtures above the doorposts.
Washington Mews is one of the last private streets still open to the public (many have gone under lock and key, open only to residents or special guests). Be sure to check it out!
Washington Mews is located off University Place just past 8th street in Greenwich Village.
Sunday, July 31, 2011
Revson Fountain
Check out this awesome video of the Revson Fountain (as I now know it's called) at Lincoln Center!
I'll post non-fountain things soon, don't worry :-).
I'll post non-fountain things soon, don't worry :-).
Wednesday, July 27, 2011
More fountains!
As promised, here are more of my favorite fountains. The hot weather has sure put me in the water mood!
Lincoln Center
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| Credit: 80laf.wordpress.com |
Located in front of Avery Fisher Hall by Lincoln Center, this fountain gushes with water! I love how it changes its form every few minutes, and on some nights even has a light show! Check out this great article about the Revson Fountain for more information.
55th St. and 6th Ave.
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| Credit: Flickr user JakeRichter |
A few blocks north of "My Fountain" is this unbelievable surprise! I'm not quite sure what it is called (a fountain like this must have a name!), but it looks like a snowflake suspended in the air, spurting out water with an ethereal mist around it. *EDIT - this is in front of the Alliance Bernstein building on 6th Avenue, and there is a twin fountain on the other side of the plaza!
Vietnam Veterans Memorial
Located at 55 Water Street (the same building that hosts the Elevated Acre), the Vietnam War Veteran's Memorial is a beautiful commemoration of our fallen soldiers. The Reflecting Fountain is a soothing center for the plaza, where water gently flows over light stones set in polished black granite. This is one of the most calming fountains I have ever encountered.
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| Credit: vietnamveteransplaza.com |
In my experience, the best time to visit these fountains is at night, when they are lit up beautifully and fewer people are around. The fountains seem to come alive under their spotlights!
But wait! That's not all...
I found this fabulous picture of "My Fountain!" Enjoy! (And be sure to check it out - 50th St. and 6th Ave. It's much nicer in real life. Especially at night.)
But wait! That's not all...
I found this fabulous picture of "My Fountain!" Enjoy! (And be sure to check it out - 50th St. and 6th Ave. It's much nicer in real life. Especially at night.)
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| Credit: www.wikimedia.org |
Thursday, July 21, 2011
Singing Pirates
There was a singing pirate on my no.1 uptown Subway today! Dressed in the full regalia... feather in the hat and all!
(UPDATE: Saw him again on the Subway a few weeks ago. Apparently he is an Irish Minstrel and calls himself The Creepy Bard).
Tuesday, July 19, 2011
Awesome Fountains!
As many of you know, I am slightly obsessed with fountains.
And NYC is filled with them! There are fountains in front of buildings, on sidewalks, by memorials... and many other places you would least expect!
I guess it's the flow of water that makes me love fountains so much. It's such a peaceful feeling to sit by soothing water in the middle of a bustling intersection. I often sit by my favorite fountain (#4) to read or write in my journal, or just observe the cacophony of the city around me.
Check out some of my favorite fountains (in no particular order):
To be continued... there's more to come!
And NYC is filled with them! There are fountains in front of buildings, on sidewalks, by memorials... and many other places you would least expect!
I guess it's the flow of water that makes me love fountains so much. It's such a peaceful feeling to sit by soothing water in the middle of a bustling intersection. I often sit by my favorite fountain (#4) to read or write in my journal, or just observe the cacophony of the city around me.
Check out some of my favorite fountains (in no particular order):
Columbus Circle:
 |
| Credit: theweblicist.com |
Located at Columbus Circle (59th St. and Broadway), this fountain is best experienced sitting at the base of the Christopher Columbus monument, and watching the water spurting from the fountain in a line-like appearance. You become entirely unaware of the traffic circling around you!
Lexington Avenue and 53rd Street
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| Credit: Flickr user Viridia |
This amazing fountain greets you as you emerge from the Lexington Avenue and 53rd street subway station. Or perhaps I should call it a Waterfall. I love how it just cascades over the side, from street level down to the Subway level.
Central Park - Bethesda Fountain
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| Credit: NewYorkDailyPhoto.blogspot.com |
Bethesda Fountain, located just passed the East 72nd Street entrance to the park, is one of the largest and most photographed fountains in the world. It is a huge tourist attraction and a popular filming location, so you will always find something interesting going on over here!
My Fountain
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| credit: nysonglines.com |
I call this fountain "My Fountain" because it is the most wonderful fountain in all of New York City (in my humble opinion), and I also don't know its name. The beauty of this fountain is in its simplicity. The few spurts of water that sprout from the center of the large, rectangular surface, and the water that gently glides over the top, creating a clear, glass-like appearance. I love sitting by this fountain at night, watching the water and feeling so tiny surrounded by the enormous buildings towering above me. The fountain is located at 6th Ave and 50th St., across from the Radio City Music Hall.
To be continued... there's more to come!
Thursday, July 14, 2011
Flowers... on a roof?!
A few nights ago, I made my way downtown to the Financial District. I was on a mission to discover a secret hideaway, built for New Yorkers seeking to escape the overwhelming noise of the city streets.
What I found was The Elevated Acre, located at 55 Water Street.
Allow me to take you on a tour.
First, you must find the hidden staircase.
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| Credit: www.55Water.com |
Ride the escalator or take the stairs up to the top. When you get there, you will see this:
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| Credit: www.55water.com |
You have entered into a world of beauty, filled with flowers and greenery, overlooking the East River with magnificent views of the Brooklyn Bridge and beyond.
A view from the other side:
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| Credit: www.55Water.com |
The landscaping is gorgeous! As I walked around, I noticed yellow daisies peaking out from behind some bushes. I felt like I was in a royal garden.
At night, a 50 foot LED light sculpture entitled "The Beacon of Progress," lights up the plaza.
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| credit: www.NYTimes.com |
On the other side, there is a huge lawn with "year round grass" (i.e. fake grass that looks remarkably real).
The night I was there, I saw a young couple relaxing on the grass and enjoying each other's company. They looked like they had just gotten out of work.
If you are in the neighborhood, I encourage you to check it out! The Elevated Acre is minutes away from The South Ferry subway station, Staten Island Ferry and Battery Park. It is also on the same block as the Police Museum and the beautiful Vietnam Veterans Memorial (both of which will be detailed in coming posts).
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| Credit: www.elevatedacre.com |
The night I was there, I saw a young couple relaxing on the grass and enjoying each other's company. They looked like they had just gotten out of work.
If you are in the neighborhood, I encourage you to check it out! The Elevated Acre is minutes away from The South Ferry subway station, Staten Island Ferry and Battery Park. It is also on the same block as the Police Museum and the beautiful Vietnam Veterans Memorial (both of which will be detailed in coming posts).
Check out http://www.elevatedacre.com/ for more information.
Additional pictures: http://www.flickr.com/photos/cwofford/sets/1214929/
The Elevated Acre at 55 Water Street is open Daily: May 1 through Sept. 30, 7 a.m. to 10 p.m.; Oct 1 through April 30, 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Free Admission (!)
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