Pre Covid-19 we searched the internet everyday looking for the very best of What’s Happening, primarily on Manhattan’s WestSide, so that you didn’t have to.”
We made it as easy as 1-2-3.

Covid-19 has required some changes for the time being.
Stay Safe.

For November we are going to try a different format – “Top 10 Corona Culture” – updated info and video especially suited to these difficult times OR NYC related visual info (Instagram and YouTube) OR all the NYC news you need to start your day.

We hope you will come back often to see what’s cooking here.

Today it’s Top 10 Corona Culture. NEW STUFF!

“The wonderland will feature tins of holiday shops, a pop-up rinkside food hall, and a 17,000-foot free ice skating rink as the centerpiece. (You’ll only have to pay to rent skates if you don’t already have, which cost $18-$33, depending on the day). Because of COVID-19, there are many new safety measures in place, including a completely-outdoors Winter Village experience.”  (secretnyc.co)

2. A Visitor’s Guide to MoMA and the Met – The New York Times

“What you need to know before you head back to the museums, from safety precautions to the exhibitions still on view.”

3. How to Enjoy Outdoor Dining Right Now – Grubstreet

“And how to dress for it in February.”

4. The absolute best pizza in NYC – TONY

“The best pizza in NYC as tasted by our pizza experts—from dollar slices to slice with mile high toppings.

New Yorkers are fortunate to live in a city where the pizza is so good that even the dollar slices are excellent. But with so many options, it’s difficult to know which pie shop is worth the trek. We put together our most comprehensive guide to slices across the five boroughs. Whether you’re looking for a classic margherita pie, our favorite joint with an old-school New York atmosphere or the spot to grab a slice at an outdoor restaurant in the warmer months, we’ve got you covered. Now more than ever, pizza in New York is experimental and accommodating to all kinds of dietary restrictions (such as gluten free pizza, thank you, Screamer’s!) while many of the old-fashioned spots have kept the same charm as ever.”

5. – 10 big differences between fall in NYC this year vs. last year – TONY

“This will be a fall unlike any other. There’s nothing like fall in New York City—the crisp air hitting your lungs, the golden leaves waving in the cool breezes, the cocktails and coffee drinks that warm us up—it’s a time that most of us look forward to every year. This year, well, is going to be a lot different. We’re facing a new reality as most of us aren’t yet back in our offices and going out requires a whole new set of rules.”

6. NYC Tourism Updates This Week – CityGuideNY

“New York will be back. A thoughtful new report from the Regional Plan Association lays out the most likely scenarios of “New York’s Next Comeback.” There are cautions, like not mistaking short-term disruptions for new paradigms. The report includes strong evidence that density is not a disadvantage, even in coronavirus times; the deterioration of public services and infrastructure is our primary risk. Among the takeaways are five great reasons for betting on our region’s future: 

• Urban density is still an advantage in the global economy
• Diversity and talent still drive economic success
• The New York region’s unique agglomeration of assets is impossible to replicate
• New businesses and households will take advantage of vacant space and lower rents
• The crisis has been a wake up call to address our structural problems”

7. Here’s what you need to know about museums reopening in New York City – amNewYork

“Since the start of the pandemic, we had all turned to virtual museum activities and videos to see our favorite exhibits and galleries. Now that Cuomo has given the green light for museums and other cultural institutions to reopen, they are gearing up to welcome us back in. Like most establishments that have reopened in the past months, everything has a new “normal,” and the same goes for these museums. Before you make your way to see your favorite gallery, take a look at these museum guidelines so that you can be fully informed and prepared when arriving. Be sure to also check the museum’s website for additional information on their policies and for any changes before visiting.”

8. Here are things that you can do in Central Park amid the COVID-19 pandemic – amNewYork

“While the Park remains open to the public, to mitigate the spread of the virus and in alignment with recommendations from public health officials, in-Park tours and public programming are on pause, and all visitor centers are closed until further notice.”

9. Best Exhibits in NYC Open Right Now: New Exhibitions, Pop Ups & More – Thrillist

“Governor Cuomo announced that indoor cultural activities like museums (and also bowling alleys, yes!) are allowed to reopen starting today. That’s good news for art-loving New Yorkers who have been cooped up for months with limited entertainment options. While many museums will slowly reopen over the upcoming weeks, when they do, expect attendance limited to 25% capacity, staggered and timed entry with ticketing booked in advance, and necessary safety protocols including the requirement of facial coverings and social distancing. So grab your mask and hand sanitizer, and check out these eight cool exhibitions to celebrate the museum phase of Phase 4’s reopening.”

10. Biking in New York City  – nycgo.com “

With more than 1,000 miles of bike routes and lanes, NYC makes for a bike-friendly destination. Two-wheeled transit is an increasingly popular and accessible way to navigate the City while taking in some extraordinary vistas. Check out this video for a beginner’s guide to getting around town by bike. For more details, our biking article has the basics on how to rent some wheels and ride safely, along with some suggested starter routes.”

bonus: When Manhattan Was Mannahatta: a Stroll Through the Centuries  – NYT  

“From lush forest to metropolis, the evolution of Lower Manhattan.”

We hope you enjoy this change of pace, then please return here December 1, and every day for our daily, hot off the presses event guide with “Only the Best” NYCity event info.  

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