If you love looking at places you’ll never be able to afford, but love drooling over them anyway-? You’ll fit right in, so join me on one of my epic ‘adventures in real estate’, as I comb the listings and find the most expensive house in the Hamptons, and the other highest-priced Hamptons mansions on the market. (Of course that means you’ll have to put up with my weak attempts at humor, but hey – that’s a pretty small price to pay, isn’t it?;) These top ten priciest are in no particular order.

Most Expensive Listings in Southampton

Southampton Superstars

1. $44,950,000

Located at 1080 Meadow Lane in Southampton, the property is actually a lot, where you can build your Hamptons dream house. However, there is a picture of the exterior of a house, included with the listing, but no information on it, per se. Instead, it says this lot offers over 300 feet of direct oceanfront beach, accessed easily by your private walkway. {Private walkway… from? to?… a bottomless ocean to a private abyss?? Or what?!} Size of the lot can accommodate a 12,000 ft²+ residence, tennis courts, and an oceanside pool! To find 5 acres of land in total, next to the ocean and in this trendy, prime location in Southampton, is extremely rare and highly valuable {obvi!}. However, it’s not much fun to drool over… too much brain power is needed to imagine everything. But at that price, we had to include it!

2. $39,500,000

This modern-looking architectural wonder is located at 1100 Meadow Lane in Southampton. But, being very near the other lot, this one is also being advertised as a “building opportunity.” The existing home has 6 bedrooms and 8 bathrooms and is over 5,000 ft². It’s definitely gorgeous, but as advertised, the lot can accommodate a 10,000 ft² home instead, and a tennis court! {Gee, whiz, makes my puny house feel so small and insignificant!} Private walkway right to the beach, and unobstructed views make this “glass house” an enticing retreat. {Be sure you remember not to throw any stones, though…you know what they say about people in glass houses.}

3. $23,500,000

{Insert proper English accent, here}: Or how about this lovely Hamptons mansion? Also in Southampton, at 320 Majors Path, this elegant beauty measures a whopping 9,500 ft² and has ten bedrooms and twelve bathrooms. The place is called the “Rosewood Farm” Estate, and not only is it on more than 34 acres but it’s also located on the original site of the Southampton Hunt & Riding Club. {Selling point, check } Additionally, the current owner has transformed the previous buildings into liveable space. It actually consists of a main residence with 6 bedrooms and a separate guest house with another 4 bedrooms, plus a courtyard with a fountain and more. {Translation: Used to be a couple of barns and a stable, now it’s a main residence, guest house, and a 4-car garage. Presto~Change-O! Voila! You’re a multimillion-dollar estate.} 

4. $19,500,000

This Southampton mansion is a treasure, located at 540 Halsey Neck Lane it measures 10,000 ft², tying it for first place as the biggest house in the Hamptons currently for sale. There are 9 bedrooms and 12 bathrooms, and another 2,700 ft² to be had on the third floor. Private gates, mature landscaping, double-height grand entry, just look at this magnificent and well-cared-for piece of primo property. Top-of-the-line, ample appliances, marble fireplace, granite countertops, French doors, stone terrace, elevator, second staircase, billiards room, game room, and so much more!

Most Expensive Listings in Bridgehampton

Bridgehampton Beauties

1. $27,5000,000

{British or possibly Irish accent here}-: Bridgehampton South, to be exact, this mod design is precisely situated at 180 Pointe Mecox Lane. Just look at that stunning view and 6,000 ft² of house, with 5 bedrooms and 7 bathrooms. BMA Architects are nearing completion, along with landscape architect Laguardia Design Group, who together have created this newly constructed home with the killer 360° views. Saltwater pool, spa and private dock, the residence was made for entertaining.

2. $12,950,000

637 Halsey Lane in Bridgehampton won’t be completed until 2023 but is an absolutely gorgeous home with 9,500 ft². It offers 8 en suite bedrooms plus 2 half baths, a gunite pool, and separate pool house, a bluestone patio perfect for entertaining in the summertime, private terraces, his and her walk-in closets, etc. White marble adorns the kitchen and bathrooms, matching the rest of the clean, white theme. {Speaking of clean white – does this place come with a housecleaner, for almost $13 mil?!}

Most Expensive Listings in East Hampton

East Hampton Hotties

1. $39,500,000

Located at 15 West End in East Hampton, this sizable mansion measures 5,000+ ft², plus includes a separate guest house that measures 1,500+ ft². They both sit on 2 acres of highly coveted land on a highly coveted street, and the land includes 165 feet of oceanfront on Georgica Beach. The main residence has 9 bedrooms and 5 bathrooms, and the guest house has 3 bedrooms and 2 baths. The house has a private pool, of course, and mature and manicured gardens and landscape. It doesn’t get much better than this, in the Hamptons, folks.

2. $19,500,000

This is one of my favorite Hamptons mansions, located in East Hampton at 104 Georgica Close Road. Keep in mind that these are conceptual renderings so won’t be realized until a lucky purchaser dives in, but we can dream about the future of this home. On 2+ acres and 5,500+ ft², this classic beauty is by renowned builder Jeffrey Colle. It has 6 bedrooms and 8 bathrooms, 300 feet of linear frontage on Georgica Pond, a private pool and private water access. Tons of windows give natural light to the home throughout, and spectacular water views from a rooftop terrace add charm to this entertaining paradise! Waterside pool, separate 1,400 ft² pool house and pond-side 60′ X 120′ tennis court. Now this place has class…

3. $9,5000,000

The regal-looking mansion shown here is located at 534 Hands Creek Road in East Hampton. The unique residence is more than 10,000 ft², custom-designed with 6 bedrooms, 7 full bathrooms, and 2 half baths. Has 12-24 foot tall ceilings throughout, an ornate wood-burning fireplace, and French doors that open onto a heated, covered porch and another fireplace plus a big-screen TV. There are plenty of fireplaces all throughout the ornate interior, more than one staircase, and a huge manicured yard with a massive 50′ X 16′ gunite pool, heated and with a water fountain feature. Free-standing hot tub and full-sized bocce ball court, too. Now this is a Hamptons mansion, and the price is certainly right. It’s the least expensive of today’s Hamptons houses but has the most square footage. Go figure. This is therefore the biggest house in the Hamptons (currently on the market)!

Final Remarks

As always, I hope you enjoyed tagging along with me on my “Hamptons Odyssey.” After all, it’s always more fun to look at expensive, luxury real estate with someone else who can’t afford it either! {Am I right?!} In any case, be on the lookout for the next piece like this I do – where we’ll be looking at the most expensive listings in NYC – and let me tell you, this is what all the hype is about! I mean, all the ungodly prices and outlandish stories? Only in Manhattan, folks. Wait’ll you see this list – so please join me on my next adventure in real estate, and until then, happy coveting! (Wink-wink

The post The Most Expensive Hamptons Mansions For Sale Right Now appeared first on CitySignal.

State Parks or State-Owned Land for Camping Near New York City

Sebago Cabin Camp in Harriman State Park

Located just north of the New York-New Jersey state line in Rockland and Orange Counties, New York, Harriman State Park offers 200 miles of hiking trails, 31 lakes and reservoirs, and two public beaches. The rustic cabins (no water or electricity) and full-service cottages are tucked into a rocky, wooded hillside. The campground offers amenities like rowboat rentals, basketball courts, tennis courts, and beach access. Cabins sleep six. Rental: $266 – $736/week, depending on cabin or cottage size, plus processing fee for reservations.

Mills Norrie State Park – Esopus Island Backcountry Site

As the name suggests, Esopus Island Backcountry campsite is located on Esopus Island, an island in the Hudson River between Hyde Park and Staatsburg. Accessible only by boat—you’ll need to bring your own canoe, kayak, or other vessel—the campsite offers a fire pit and portable camp toilet in addition to the standard camping platform and canvas-walled tent. It accommodates four people and is pet-friendly. Cost: $45/night.

Fahnestock State Park

Just an hour and a half north of the city by car, Fahnestock State Park features 76 dog-friendly campsites. Each site features a fire pit, grill, and picnic table; bathroom facilities are interspersed in the camping area. The park itself is over 14,000 acres, and is designated an official Bird Conservation Area. Bring your binoculars and get ready to spot broad-winged hawks, veeries, worm-eating warblers, and scarlet tanagers. Cost: $15-19/night plus processing fee for reservations.

Mongaup Pond Campground

The outdoors are for everyone, but campsites are all-too-often inaccessible to those who use a wheelchair or other mobility devices. Mongaup Pond Campground offer eight accessible campsites, with accessible picnic tables and fire rings. The nearby beach has an accessible access trail and accessible shower facilities. Cost: $22/night for New York State residents, $27/night for others, plus processing fee for reservations.

Gillette Castle State Park

Gillette Castle State Park is named for the 19th/early 20th century actor-manager William Gillette’s castle, which was acquired by the state in 1943 and sits within the park. Designed by Gillette himself, the castle is a mix of architectural styles and personal quirks. Consider camping at the public park’s public campsite on the Connecticut River, which has a primitive toilet and is accessible by canoe or kayak, and hiking into the park to explore the castle. Stays are limited to one night. Cost: $5/camper/night.

Round Valley State Park, New Jersey

An hour and twenty minutes west of New York City you’ll find Round Valley State Park, which offers the only wilderness camping in the state. While sites offer fire rings and grills, and primitive toilets are within walking distance, not all offer drinking water, so you may need to carry that in. And “carry it in” means a rugged three-to-three-and-a-half mile hike, or a boat trip across the Round Valley Reservoir. Sites sleep six and are pet friendly. Cost: $17/night for New Jersey residents, $22/night for others.

Devil’s Hopyard State Park

Located in East Haddam, Connecticut, about two hours and 15 minutes northeast of the city, Devil’s Hopyard is known for its waterfalls and pothole stone formations. This may be the origin of the park’s unusual name: angered by the falls for getting his tail wet, the devil “burned holes in the stones with his hooves as he bounded away.” The legend does not account for what the devil was doing in Connecticut in the first place. Today, the park offers 21 tent sites in a wooded setting, with water and restroom facilities. $14/night for Connecticut residents, $24/night for others, plus processing fee for reservations.

Kettletown State Park

A quiet, forested state park, Kettletown’s campground offers 61 wooded and open campsites and a few rustic cabins near Lake Zoar in Sunbury, Connecticut. One of the campsites is ADA accessible. Bathrooms and showers are provided. The park features horseshoe pits, a small beach, and six miles of trails overlooking Lake Zoar and the Housatonic River. Visitors appreciate the varied wildlife. Cost: $17/night for campsites for Connecticut residents, $27/night for others; $50/night for cabins for Connecticut residents, $60/night for others, plus a processing fee.

Worthington State Forest

An hour and a half west of the city, Worthington State Forest has 26 miles of trails, including a section of the Appalachian Trail, and is a great destination for hikers. The park offers one backcountry campsite, available on a first-come, first-serve basis. Sunfish Pond, a National Historic Landmark, is a 41-acre lake created by glaciers during the last ice age and a popular destination within the park. The park has 78 tent and trailer sites along the Delaware River, all of which have fire rings and picnic tables. The campground offers showers, restrooms, and drinking water. Cost: varies.

Camp By the Beach Near New York City

Hither Hills State Park 

Montauk, at the far eastern end of Long Island, offers two excellent beach campgrounds, Hither Hills State Park and Montauk County Park. Hither Hills offers 189 oceanside campsites, just steps to the beach. The park offers a comfort station with showers, restroom facilities, volleyball, hiking, basketball, and fishing opportunities, among others. Cost: $35/night for New York State residents to $70/night for non-residents.

Montauk County Park

If a more rugged beach camping experience is what you’re looking for, consider Montauk County Park. You’ll need to drive a camper or haul a trailer onto the beach, but the views of Block Island Sound make up for the hassle. This is the kind of place you hunker down for a week of sun, sand, and screen-free life. Vehicles require an outer beach permit, and each group is limited to two dogs. Cost: varies.

Smith Point County Park

Smith Point County Park campground is located on the Fire Island barrier beach, and all 270 campsites have water. Many also offer sewer and electric hook ups. The park’s white sand, excellent surf, playgrounds, showers, and snack bar make it a very popular destination. It’s a great spot for sport fishermen. Cost: varies.

Hammonasset Beach State Park

Just two hours from New York City by car, Hammonasset State Park is Connecticut’s largest shoreline park. The park’s William F. Miller Campground offers 558 grassy sites (six of which are ADA accessible), with a  concession stand, bathrooms, and showers. No pets allowed, but you can swim, fish, and beach to your heart’s content. Cabins are available for rent on a weekly basis, Sunday to Sunday. Cost: $20/night for Connecticut residents, $30/night for others, higher for campsites with water, plus processing fees.

Primitive Camping Near New York City

Castle Rock Unique Area

If getting off the grid and away from others is your goal, consider camping at Castle Rock Unique Area near Philipstown, New York. This 129-acre area offers Hudson Highland views and a short trail. Primitive camping is allowed 150 feet from the nearest road, trail, or body of water. Cost: Free.

Hickok Brook Multiple Use Area

Get away from it all in Sullivan County, New York at the Hickok Brook Multiple Use area, which offers short hiking trails, a pond for fishing, and designated and primitive campsites. Designated campsites are marked with yellow signs; primitive camping is allowed 150 feet from the nearest road, trail, or body of water. Cost: Free.

Sundown Wild Forest

Sullivan County, New York’s Sundown Wild Forest is 30,100 acres of mixed terrain in the southeast Catskills. This a place for some real hiking, mountain biking, or horseback riding (BYO horse), as well as fishing. The Peekamoose Blue Hole is a gorgeous, popular swimming site. The forest’s Peekamoose Valley Camping Area offers primitive campsites (some accessible) and a seasonal port-a-potty. Reservations are required for campsites. Cost: Free.

Unique Camping Experiences Near New York City

Lavender Farm, Pleasant Valley

This campsite, offered through Hipcamp, is a private site on a working lavender farm. Located in  New Jersey a little over an hour from New York City by car, the site is within easy reach of Red Bank and Asbury Park. It features a fire pit and camp toilet and is pet-friendly, though dogs must be leashed (there are chickens on site!). The site accommodates six campers. Cost: $60/night.

Historic Sundial Farm

Located on Westchester County’s oldest working farm, this pond-side campsite offers a tent site, bathrooms, potable water, and is pet-friendly. It accommodates up to eight people and is convenient to both Harriman State Park and Fahnestock State Park. Cost: $68/night.

Mountain Top Campsite

If you want a gorgeous campsite plus easy access to New Paltz AND an on-site farm brewery, consider Mount Top Campsite. Located on a working farm with farm story, brewery, and live music on weekends, the site accommodates tents or RVs and offers toilets, a fire pit, and picnic table. It accommodates up to ten people. Cost: $95/night.

Heated Geodome in the ‘Gunks

If roughing it in a tent or rustic cabin isn’t what you’re looking for, maybe staring out the skylight of your private geodome is the best way for you to connect with nature. Each geodome overlooks a ravine and stream. Geodomes feature a bed, linens, towels, a hammock, private deck, and fire pit. There are toilets on site, showers, potable water, and private hiking trails. But all this doesn’t come cheap: the geodomes run $295/night.

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Want to spend your day off in the city, but not have it feel like NYC? Taking an escape to Roosevelt Island might be your answer. Sandwiched between Manhattan and Queens, Roosevelt Island is a narrow island that has a rich history. It was originally purchased from the Canarsie Indians in 1637 by Dutch Governor Wouter Van Twiller. The island was eventually taken over by Captain John Manning in 1666 after the Dutch surrendered to the English in 1664 and became known as Manning’s Island. Twenty years later, Manning’s son-in-law, Robert Blackwell inherited the island. The Blackwell family eventually sold the island to the City of New York in 1828 for $32,000. After nearly a century, in 1921 the island was renamed Welfare Island after the prison, asylum, and many hospitals that the city constructed throughout the years. The island only finally landed on its current name in 1973 when it was renamed in honor of Franklin D. Roosevelt, who was New York’s governor from 1929 to 1933.

The island has a lot to offer its residents and visitors. From a fantastic aerial tram that lets you get the best views of Manhattan’s Upper East Side to snapping pictures of the Smallpox Hospital from behind a fence, here are the best things to do and see on Roosevelt Island.

Things to Do on Roosevelt Island

Plan Your Smallpox Hospital Roosevelt Island Visit

Although this attraction is off-limits and fenced off, you can still see the ruins behind the fence. This historic hospital was built in the 1850s to treat people with smallpox. Built by James Renwich Jr., the hospital was also referred to as the Renwick Smallpox Hospital and eventually Renwick’s Ruins. According to Atlas Obscura, from 1856 to 1875, the hospital treated 7,000 patients a year. In 1875, the hospital was converted into a nurses’ dormitory, and by the 1950s the hospital had been abandoned by the city. However, in 1975, the Landmarks Preservation Commission took interest and declared the old hospital a city landmark. 

Take the Roosevelt Island Tram

The oldest tram in North America, the Roosevelt Island Tram runs every 10-15 minutes. Considered one of NYC’s most underrated tourist attractions, this tram ride is fast, easy, not crowded, and has the most beautiful view of the city skyline and East River. It costs the same as a subway ride and takes about three to five minutes to get from one side to the other. Since the tram is not meant to be a tourist attraction, but an efficient commuter rail, make sure to avoid riding the tram during rush hours. Also, note that the tram does not run every hour, so make sure to check the schedule.

Explore Blackwell Island Lighthouse

The Roosevelt Island Lighthouse, formally known as the Blackwell Island Lighthouse and then the Welfare Island Lighthouse (1921-1973), is a 50-foot-tall Gothic-style lighthouse first built in 1872. This was a lighthouse commissioned by the city in order to light up the nearby New York City Lunatic Asylum for the boats navigating the Hell Gate waters. Legend says that the lighthouse was constructed by a patient by the name of John McCarthy at the former asylum though it’s more likely that inmate labor was used in the construction of this city-run project. The lighthouse was eventually decommissioned in the 1940s, designated a city landmark, and then partially restored in 1976. 

Blackwell House

Located at 500 Main Street, the Blackwell House was named after its owner Jacob Blackwell who constructed the house in 1796. Fun fact, Jacob Blackwell was the great-grandson of the same Robert Blackwell who took owners of Roosevelt Island (then known as Manning’s Island) back in 1686. This farmhouse is the last remaining house on the island that was constructed in a period of time when the island was still privately-held property. It is also New York County’s sixth oldest house. It was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1972. Today, visitors can stop by the house for free to learn more about the island’s rich history through the treasures, records, and archives that are stored inside this historic building.

Admire The Octagon at 888 Main Street, Roosevelt Island

At the northern end of Roosevelt Island is this mid-19th-century landmark that was built as the main entrance to the New York City Lunatic Asylum. The Octagon also served as the administrative center of the asylum. The building’s famous rotunda design was done by New York architect, Alexander Jackson Davis. The design was even praised by a visiting Charles Dickens, who called the building “handsome” and the rotunda’s flying spiral staircase an especially “spacious and elegant” feature; but he further commented that the asylum had a “lounging, listless, madhouse air which was very painful.” Thankfully, that frightening air is no longer around as this landmark was converted in 2019 into a luxury green building. These days residents of the building can enjoy state-of-the-art and luxurious amenities. Non-residents should make sure to walk by the building and take in the signature five-story octagonal rotunda.

Check Out the Future Cornell Tech

Considered the tech hub of NYC, the Cornell Tech campus is a joint venture between Cornell University and Technion. With amazing architecture designed by Skidmore, Owings & Merill, and with James Corner Field Operations doing the landscape design, Cornell Tech is tech-savvy and pleasing to look at. The 12-acres campus isn’t expected to be finished until 2037, but the Bloomberg Center is open to visitors where you can check out the city’s first net-zero building, as it only uses electricity that it creates itself. 

Take a Stroll in Franklin D. Roosevelt Four Freedoms Park

Located on the southern tip of Roosevelt Island, the construction of the Franklin D. Roosevelt Four Freedoms Park started on March 29th, 2010 following architect Louis I. Kahn’s original design (in fact, it was the famous architect’s last work). The park was completed on budget in September of 2012 and then opened to the public in October of 2012. A dedication ceremony was also held when the park opened including people like Bill Clinton, Andrew Cuomo, and Michael Bloomberg. The ceremony was where the Four Freedoms Park was officially designated a New York State Park by Cuomo. The park itself is beautiful containing 120 Linden trees, a 340-ft-long triangular lawn, a 60-square-foot open plaza, and a bronze casting of FDR. You can stop by the park to take in some wonderful views of the Manhattan and Queens skyline. 

Enjoy Artworks at RIVAA

If you’re an art lover, be sure to check out the Roosevelt Island Visual Art Association (RIVAA). It’s a nonprofit arts group that works to promote the Roosevelt Island art scene. They boost gallery exhibitions, workshops, and community events. They converted a former pharmacy into Roosevelt Island’s first free gallery space in 2002. If you’re looking to find contemporary art, they are considered to have some of the best contemporary art around. They exhibit works by local and international guest artists.

Take in the Manhattan Skyline during Sunset

It’s golden hour and you’re wanting to see the last of the sun’s rays hitting the city’s skyscraper windows. Luckily, if you’re on Roosevelt Island, you can go to the island’s west side and have a front-seat skyline view of Manhattan’s Midtown and Upper East Side. No need for rooftops and ferries when you’re getting the most authentic and beautiful views from Roosevelt Island. Viewing the city skyline is the perfect way to finish off the day on the island. 

Grab a Bite at the Graduate Roosevelt Island Hotel

However, if you’re feeling peckish, then consider grabbing a bite to eat at the Graduate Hotel. Designed by internationally renowned design firm Snøhetta, this is currently the only hotel on the island. The bright and modern hotel was designed to ensure unobstructed views of both Manhattan and Queens. Visitors can drop by to grab a bite at the hotel’s restaurant, Anything At All, then enjoy a delicious cocktail from the rooftop bar, the Panorama Room, while taking in the 360-degree views of New York.

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What Are New York City Timeshares?

First and foremost, timeshares in NYC don’t typically look like timeshares everywhere else. Timeshares in the city usually come in the form of a fractional ownership deal, where people can pay money to buy a set amount of time in a hotel or resort with the ability to choose one of several location options. They also usually come with additional perks like deals on similar hotels worldwide, fine dining, and even access to amenities like fitness centers.

While traditional timeshares try to tell you that you own land, most fractional ownership in NYC makes no such promises. Instead, the money you spend, usually between $30,000-$100,000 depending on the company, package, and location, goes toward a spot in an exclusive club that gets to know who you are as a person. You can stay in the same room or suite every time you vacation, and these options are usually larger than standard hotel rooms. It’s also a way to have a slice of the city without spending millions on real estate. You can say you own a small place in Midtown Manhattan, and it will only be a little white lie instead of a grandiose one.

Where Are New York City Timeshares?

Many luxury buildings contain timeshares. Some of the most popular in the city are:

St. Regis

The St. Regis is a historic Hotel built by John Jacob Astor IV, who opened the Hotel in 1904. This building’s claim to fame is inventing the Bloody Mary and throwing midnight tea events. Current ownership allows you one fixed week stay at St. Regis locations in New York, Aspen, or Scottsdale.

Owners also have 21 additional nights that they can book on priority reservations. While staying at St. Regis, owners will have access to the fitness club, butler service, and access to the exclusive Astor Court and King Cole Bar.

West 57th Street by Hilton Club

One of many hotels in the Hilton Club, membership to the West 57th will allow you to accrue points during various vacations and use those points to gain access to new perks. Club members automatically get access to all Hilton amenities, but points allow you to make priority reservations and extend your stay at the resort of your choosing.

Rooms are huge and usually have separate bedrooms, living rooms, and kitchenettes for owners. Some even have multiple bathrooms for larger families who need extra space.

The Phillips Club

Right next to Lincoln Square, The Phillips Club offers you a deed for 1/8th ownership of an apartment in the hotel. This fractional ownership differs from others in the city because you’re actually part owner of an apartment. Some of these places are multi-bedroom with full kitchens, and you can work out an extended stay.

Your stays aren’t fixed either, so as long as you’re not interfering with another owner, you can live here whenever you want. Owners have access to all the amenities in the hotel, like business centers and a dining area.

Are New York City Timeshares Worth It?

It truly depends. The fact is, each fractional membership offers you different things. It’s up to you to decide what you’re willing to pay for. The Phillips Club offers you a share in an actual apartment. This could be seen as an investment, albeit a small one. The room will grow in value over time if the real estate market does, at least in theory. In practice, prices might remain stagnant due to the Club’s policy. It’s hard to tell if a deed to the apartment actually means ownership.

For buildings where you don’t get a deed, the situation is even murkier. You’re essentially paying for a larger room, first dibs on activities, and more access to services and amenities, all of which are great. However, you don’t actually own anything. You’ve made no investment into a property, you just enjoy that property’s perks for a fee. This isn’t necessarily a problem, but it is something to keep in mind if you’re seeking to actually own something in the city. While hotels are offering a lot of goods, most still don’t offer you ownership.

Additionally, whether you have a deed or not, you have to work around the schedules of other club members. If these families get to the room first, your vacation might not be as flexible as you think. That said, fractional ownership deals can still be beneficial if you’re willing to make reservations far in advance. Most clubs will also allow you to cancel or transfer weeks with little to no cost, meaning that sudden changes to your schedule shouldn’t be an issue. Plus, these clubs offer services and amenities that regular hotel bookings don’t, so the levels of exclusivity and luxury are off the charts.

Timeshares are tricky situations because contracts can be confusing and what’s advertised isn’t what’s given. However, NYC has recognized this mistrust and is striving to correct the course by making this industry reputable. Some of the language is still unclear, but these clubs are nowhere near as bad as the full-on scams of the past. People who want to enter fractional ownership deals should still be explicit with what they want and what they will receive, but the industry is much more transparent in the city than it is elsewhere in the world. No matter how you travel, We hope you enjoy your vacation.

The post Timeshares in NYC appeared first on CitySignal.

Once New York City shut down in March of 2020, Domino Park realized it’d have to make a change, not just for itself, but for the community that had just been rocked. One major contribution the park made was expanding its own composting program to help compensate for the program that the city had reduced. They also drew up social distance circles on their lawns, all of which were six feet apart. This allowed folks to visit the park in a safe way, providing a sense of normalcy during a terrible, unusual time in the city’s life.

Domino Park Brooklyn Guide

Now that the city is open again, Domino Park can thrive once more. And there’s a lot to do for locals and visitors alike. For athletic folks, there’s a sand volleyball court, a bocce court, and fields for soccer or kickball. Kids will enjoy playing in the water features and on the playground. There’s a nice dog run, and elevated platforms so people can have a nice view of the river and skyline. There’s even a taco stand if you get hungry! This park is small, but mighty, and has a ton of things that families who live nearby can enjoy.

Fans of history will be happy to know that odes to the sugar factory are still around. Four syrup collection tanks stand tall there, a shrine to the industrial roots of the area. Aside from those, there’s an Artifact Walk, which is an elevated walkway that showcases various factory equipment that have been left behind and restored. This walkway is over five blocks, and definitely has some of the best views of the Manhattan skyline. A must see on a nice, sunny day, or a romantic spot should you want to see a beautiful sunset.

New York City is known for its parks, some of which are over one hundred years old. Even though Domino Park is newer and smaller than its brethren, it has nonetheless made its mark on New York Park culture. The park gets many visitors every day, and will soon hit the two million mark they reached before the pandemic swept the nation. People love going to a park on a beautiful summer day, and Domino Park is no exception. Domino Park is just off the Williamsburg Bridge, and easily accessed via the Bedford L stop and the Metropolitan G stop. Take a trip there today!

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The History of Buffalo

In the War of 1812, British Forces burned Buffalo and the northwest village of Black Rock in 1813, but both were rebuilt by 1815. Buffalo was named after Buffalo Creek, and incorporated into New York in 1832 after it improved its harbor to the point that it was chosen as the terminus for the Erie Canal in 1825. The canal was critical to its growth, as it was the primary inland port between the Atlantic Ocean and the Great Lakes. Then the railroads overtook the importance of the canals, and Buffalo became the second-largest railroad hub after Chicago. Once that industry waned, manufacturing took over, with steel production in the mid-19th century.

The Guaranty Building was one of the first steel-supported buildings in the world, as well as one of the first skyscrapers. In 1886, Buffalo became the first city with electric street lights. The Statler Hotel Buffalo was the first hotel to offer a private bath in each room in the early 1920s. But soon deindustrialization, the Great Depression, and the St. Lawrence Seaway opening in 1959, put the economy in serious jeopardy. However the thriving city of Buffalo could not be kept down. Instead, they developed their service industries, keeping some manufacturing as well. In addition to even more colorful history, President William McKinley was assassinated in Buffalo, while new President Theodore Roosevelt was sworn in.

Buffalo Today

Today, the Buffalo-Niagara Falls Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA) has over a $53 billion dollar GDP (gross domestic product) value. In addition, Buffalo ranks in the top 10 of all U.S. cities in International trade. In 2005, Buffalo was ranked 3rd cleanest large city in the country. It is known as the biggest flour-milling city in the world. Buffalo is home to the Herschell Carrousel Factory Museum, the only surviving historical carousel manufacturer in the world that’s still open to the public, and houses one of the only known surviving wooden carousels in the world. While there are many things Buffalo is famous for, debatably one of the most notable is their Buffalo wings, of course!

The city is home to the oldest urban parks system in the United States and has many notable cultural attractions like the AKG Art Gallery (Formerly the Albright-Knox Art Gallery) and Shea’s Performing Arts Center. The Buffalo Museum of Science, as well as many other museums, cultural events, and festivals, call Buffalo home. The Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra and the Buffalo Philharmonic Chorus are world-renowned, and as recently as 2021 won their latest Grammy Award. Kleinhans Music Hall, where the Orchestra and Philharmonic Chorus often play, is said to be one of the nation’s acoustically perfect halls. Additionally, Buffalo has over 50 private and public art galleries and CNN’s American Style Series ranked Buffalo 4th on their list of American Top Art Destinations. Seriously, folks, we could go on and on.

Things to Do in Buffalo

Overall, Buffalo, NY is arguably one of the best places to live in the entire state and boasts a lively nightlife scene where the last call isn’t until 4 am, as opposed to the 2 am standard in most cities. There are so many things to do in this culture-rich city that it’s hard to know what to include. Let’s start with the old standby: Niagara Falls. Buffalo is known as the City of Light (just one of its many nicknames) due to the hydropower of the Falls. Niagara Falls, of course, is spectacularly breathtaking. Take a boat excursion for added excitement and wonder, as this stunning world-famous site lives up to all your expectations, and more. If you only have time for one sightseeing trip in Buffalo, it’s Niagara Falls, hands down.

Next, we have Frank Lloyd Wright’s Darwin D. Martin House, topping all the lists, as well. Incidentally, Buffalo has the 2nd most Frank Lloyd Wright homes in the U.S., with a total of 5. Cultural pride at its best, at this National Historic Landmark. Then there’s the Buffalo and Erie County Botanical Gardens, for one of the most beautiful natural displays in an urban environment. The same man who created Central Park, Frederick Law Olmstead, created the Buffalo and Erie County Botanical Gardens, one of the nicest sites – and sights – to behold, in Buffalo. And of course, we have to mention Elmwood Village, one of the 10 best neighborhoods in the country. Here are a couple of pictures to sum it all up.

This is just one of the charming homes that line the streets in Elmwood Village. And artistic murals cover the buildings in the downtown area, like the next picture shows.

While there, peruse the quaint and picturesque shops and take a Buffalo Food Tour to get a taste of some of the best food in town! After all, it’s also considered one of the best food cities in the country. This city has so much to offer it’s insane, and the local residents have pride like no other.

Buffalo Real Estate

So let’s talk real estate, especially since the Buffalo – Niagara Falls Metropolitan area has the most affordable housing market in the country. One of their most famous nicknames is the City of Good Neighbors. Here’s a couple of selections from our preferred real estate listing platform, RealtyHop.

209 Leroy Avenue – $149,900

This is a wonderful home has six stunning bedrooms and one full bathroom. The backyard is half an acre that’s completely fenced in. You’ll love spending summer days out on the brand new back deck. This house has undergone a total remodel, replacing the furnace, flooring and even a new roof!

28 Chauncey Street – $155,000

This stunning home has 4 bedrooms, 2 full bathrooms, and a brand new driveway. This unit has a huge backyard, and is decorated with some victorian flair. The home has all new plumbing, electric, and a completely remodeled kitchen. Really, people, can it be any more perfect than this?

There is not much not to love about this nostalgic feeling city in all its glory. Come see Buffalo, New York for yourself. You’ll be glad you did!

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How to get your fishing license in New York City

Intrigued? I’d be surprised if you weren’t! Fishing in Central Park seems like a great time. But where do you start? First and foremost, you need a fishing license if you’re over 16. Some 16-year-olds might be tempted to fish without a license, but I beg them not to turn to a life of fish crime. Speaking of fish crime, some websites that claim to sell you a fishing license are scams. These scams reel you in (no, I’m not sorry) only to steal the information you provide them. This is why it’s important to obtain a license only from the official Department of Environmental Conservation website. Once you have that, you can fish and hunt for frogs with a spear.

Gear for your New York City fishing experience

So you have a license, time to go fishing in the park, right? Wrong! First, you need the right gear. One might think that they just need a pole, some line, lures/bait, and hooks. However, there are strict regulations for fishing gear in New York State, especially for freshwater fishing. The biggest rule is that your sinker must be lead-free. This is to cut down on water pollution and make for a healthier environment for fish and people. The lead-free rule goes for all fishing. For freshwater fishing, since you’re required to throw your fish back in most freshwater locations, you’re not allowed to use a barbed hook. This is so the fish won’t be injured once you throw it back. Once you’re done fishing, you’re required to clean up after yourself for once.

Where to fish in NYC

So you have the gear and the license. Now it’s time for that sweet sweet fishing! But where can you fish in NYC? What are the best spots? Lucky for us, park rangers themselves have placed their top fishing spots on the parks and recreation website! Here are some spots they’ve highlighted.

Freshwater Fishing

• Van Cortlandt Lake, The Bronx: This giant lake might seem out of place in the Big Apple, but it’s easy to get to and has a ton of popular fish like largemouth bass and black crappie (Which seems like a mean thing to name a fish).
• Prospect Park Lake, Brooklyn: This lake sports the largest concentration of largemouth bass in the city. It’s also 55 acres, so it’s easy to pack up and move if people start an ultimate frisbee game next to you.
• Harlem Meer, Manhattan: This place is so popular with novice fishers that the Charles A. Dana Discovery Center lets you use their fishing poles for free. Could be a fun date for those of you who want to do something unique.
• Baisley Pond Park, Queens: I’m truly shocked at the number of lakes in NYC, but here’s yet another one that has bluegill and panfish. This spot is out in Jamaica, Queens so make sure to find a good restaurant to eat at afterward.
• Willowbrook Lake, Staten Island: This is the only freshwater location I found that advertises that you can catch an eel, which is hilarious to me. Please catch an eel and email or DM a picture to CitySignal. Here’s our Instagram. I expect fast results.

Saltwater Fishing

• Orchard Beach, The Bronx: Located in Pelham Bay Park, this is the first entry on the list that allows you to keep the fish you catch! Just don’t fish near an opening swimming area. That’s a good way to get sued.
• American Veterans Memorial Pier, Brooklyn: Honor our nation’s heroes by fishing on this pier. Also, check out the Manhattan skyline. Truth be told, this is probably the most scenic place to fish in all of NYC. Just don’t tell Willowbrook Lake I said that. I still want to see those eels. Here’s our Twitter too. DM us a pic of any cool fish you find.
• West Harlem Piers, Manhattan: I know fishing in the Hudson River might not seem like the healthiest decision you’ve ever made, but you can always just release whatever you catch. Besides, the park is beautiful, so I highly recommend it.
• Broad Channel American Park, Queens: This location provides saltwater fishing via a beach or marshland. Different spots will have different things, so try them both and see which one has the best fish!
• Lemon Creek Park, Staten Island: This location is a bit out of the way, but it’s a gorgeous spot with a ton of fish. A bonanza of fish, if you will. See how much you can catch so you have a story on the ferry when you head home.

Fishing in NYC is a fun way to spend the day and it’s easy to do when you’re prepared. Just be sure to have a license, the right gear, and the knowledge ready at your fingertips. Soon you’ll be a successful angler and then you can tell your friends about the wonders of NYC fishing. There are a lot of locations and fish to checkout, and some places even have events that teach and celebrate the art of the sport. In a city that makes it difficult to commune with nature, do something that’s peaceful, fun, and rewarding.

Also, please please please send us your fish pictures. That place in Staten Island has eels! Ever catch a shark? I want to see that! Here’s our Instagram again. Happy fishing!

The post Fishing for Fun: How to Legally Fish in NYC appeared first on CitySignal.

Best Commuter Towns to NYC

1.) Tarrytown

Located in the Hudson Valley off route 287, this charming town is the perfect combination of function and style. The commute to Midtown is only about an hour and it has easy access to New Jersey and Connecticut too. The town sports quaint mom-and-pop shops as well as a variety of great places to eat such as Goosefeather, a popular restaurant serving Chinese cuisine from famous chef Dale Talde. Beautiful sights, a small-town feel, and a great school district make this town a wonderful place to call home. 

2.) Bronxville

This town may sound like it’s a neighborhood in New York’s northernmost Borough, but its fun mixture of city and suburban life gives it a unique vibe that can only be found on the outskirts of NYC. Only about a half-hour trip from Grand Central, Bronxville has a bustling downtown and a quiet uptown that will make both city dwellers and suburban folks feel right at home. Its proximity to the city makes this area a tad more expensive, but it’s worth it for the location and the variety. 

3.) Port Washington

Upstate isn’t the only place in New York to find escapes from city life. Located just one hour away from Penn Station is the lovely town of Port Washington, the inspiration for F. Scott Fitzgerald’s The Great Gatsby. This town is great if you’re into ocean views, swimming, fishing, or are a boat enthusiast. The town also sports great schools, a bustling Main Street, great restaurants, and a strong sense of community. 

Best Commuter Towns to New Jersey

1.) Hoboken 

Chances are you know someone who commutes from Hoboken to NYC, and there’s a very good reason for that. It’s only 15 minutes from the 33rd street station on the PATH train and the town itself has much to offer. Right across the Hudson River, Hoboken is great for those who like water sports or moonlit walks while gazing at New York’s skyline. Along these riverwalks are parks, restaurants, and bars with breathtaking views that make you feel like you’re still in the city. The interior of Hoboken has a very NYC feel to it as well. Lined with brownstones and covered in parks, some people would be willing to make it a sixth borough. 

2.) Maplewood

A bit more lowkey than Hoboken, Maplewood also has a short commute time to NYC, around 30 minutes. It’s a smaller area full of small shops and art that make you feel as though you’ve discovered a hidden gem. The artisanal clothing and home décor shops are certainly of note, but the most famous treasure in this community is the [Words] Bookstore, winner of the 2018 Best Bookstore Award from Miller & Shorthills Magazine. If you’re the artistic or literary type, Maplewood might just be the ideal place to call home. 

3.) Weehawken

Another New Jersey city with great views of the Manhattan skyline, this town is a bit more expensive because of its versatility. There are several travel options to head into Manhattan, but all of them take 30 minutes or less. The housing of Weehawken ranges from rentals in large complexes to comfortable family homes in the hills. There are a ton of places to go in the city like Hamilton Park, the location of Alexander Hamilton’s death, and Marcus at NoHo Rooftop, the restaurant of celebrity chef Marcus Samuelsson. Weehawken is the perfect place if you have the money and the flexibility. 

Best Commuter Towns to Connecticut

1.) Stamford

Many people assume that Connecticut is too far to be considered a commutable city to NYC. Truth is, it takes less time to get from Stamford to NYC than it does to get from Inwood to Brooklyn. The trip is only about an hour, and it’s a great one if you like the feel of both these cities. Stamford is a city that feels very accessible, equipped with its own trolley system, tons of live music and theater venues, and great locations along the water. Homes here are also much cheaper than in other commuter cities we’ve mentioned today. 

2.) Greenwich

Greenwich is possibly the ultimate commuter city for those seeking to live on the water. While the town itself is rather expensive, the commute is only about an hour to Grand Central and the town itself knows what it’s worth. The school districts are top-notch, the homes are gorgeous, the taxes are low, and the city has a sleepy yet affluent shopping district with many of the same boutiques as NYC’s own 5th Ave. With so much to do in this town, why would anyone need to go to NYC at all? 

There are many other commuter towns that lead to the Big Apple, each with its own merits. Some are havens for artists, a place to invest in real estate, or just a quiet location that actually has space for a yard. That said, the towns listed above are our favorites to visit and explore. The locals can’t get enough of these places, singing their praises and encouraging others to move there. So, if you’re looking for a home in spitting distance of NYC, why not check out some of these towns first. You’ll be glad you did.

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However, while Manhattan and Long Island (which contains both Brooklyn and Queens) tend to get a lot of attention, these are just two of the hundreds of islands you might find in the city. The city’s unique estuary ecosystem and active developmental history have created a hotbed for islands to arise.

Some of these islands are populated and relatively easy to access (whether by bridge or by ferry), while others simply are not. Let’s take a quick look at 9 islands of the islands in New York City that you have probably never heard of.

Islands in New York City

1. City Island

Located in the Bronx, City Island is actually one of the larger and more populated of New York’s “lesser islands”. With a population of about 5,000 people, this charming little island feels like a seaside resort, which is why tourism is one of its most important sectors. The island is also the setting of the 2009 film City Island, which won the Audience Favorite award at the 2009 Tribeca Film Festival.

2. Ruffle Bar

Ruffle Bar is the largest island in Brooklyn’s Jamaica Bay, which is a swampy, island-filled area near JFK Airport. In its early history, the island was completely alienated from the city and, in fact, when Jamaica Bay froze over, residents were unable to access any resources for nearly three months. The island has had a diverse and interesting history, including being an important landing point during the Civil War, a key fishing location, and, eventually, a landfill. Today, after quite a bit of preservation and rehabilitation, Ruffle Bar is an uninhabited Bird Sanctuary that is typically only accessed by kayak.

3. Governors Island

At about 172 acres in size, Governors Island is that tiny little island you have probably seen while standing in Battery Park (South Manhattan) but have never had the chance to visit. Today, the island is managed by the National Park Service and includes two historic fortifications: Fort Jay and Castle Williams. The island has played an important role in the city’s military history, including the Revolutionary War, Civil War, and World War I.

4. Shooters Island

For a 43-acre island, Shooters Island sure does have an interesting history. At first, the island was utilized as a hunting preserve and, eventually, it became George Washington’s go-to outpost for delivering messages—one of the reasons the island was frequently visited by spies. Eventually, the island turned into a shipyard and became completely developed. Later on, Alice Roosevelt (daughter of President Theodore Roosevelt) christened an early yacht called Meteor III. During this event (1912), Thomas Edison commissioned a cameraman who filmed one of the world’s first-ever newsreels—today, the newsreel can still be viewed in the Library of Congress.

5. Broad Channel

Located in what is technically Queens, Broad Channel (also known as Rulers Bar Hassock) is the only populated island in all of Jamaica Bay. About 3,000 people live on this island which, in traditional Dutch fashion, is full of canals and other manmade modifications. In 2011, during Hurricane Irene, the island experienced its first-ever mandatory evacuation. After that, the population dropped a bit but has since bounced back.

6. Roosevelt Island

Did you ever notice how there is a skinny little island in the middle of the East River? Well, that is Roosevelt Island, formerly known as Varkens Eylandt, Blackwell’s Island, and Welfare Island. Today, the island consists mostly of residential buildings and has a surprisingly high population of about 12,000. To access the island by car, you need to take the Roosevelt Island Bridge from Astoria, not the larger Ed Koch Queensboro Bridge that passes over the island connecting Queens and Manhattan at 59th Street. Other more scenic options are the tram, ferry, and F-train, depending on your definition of scenic.

7. Randalls Island

Randalls Island, which is currently connected to Wards Island, is a somewhat larger island (about 1 square mile), located right at the intersection of Manhattan, Queens, and the Bronx. The island is full of fun activities and things to do, including the Governors Ball and Electric Zoo, a beer garden, plenty of baseball fields and batting cages, and more. The island was a consistent location of conflict during the Revolutionary War, back when it was known as Buchanan’s Island.

8. Isle of Meadows

If you know anyone who lives on Isle of Meadows—or has ever even been there—well, then you just might be a bird. Currently, the island is a designated bird sanctuary and is completely closed off to humans. Located just to the west of Staten Island, the Isle of Meadows consists of salt marshes and broad meadows and is home to herons, egrets, ibises, and several other bird species.

9. Canarsie Pol

This small island, located in Jamaica Bay, is a frequently kayaked part of the Gateway National Recreation Area. It can be easily accessed from Canarsie Pier in Brooklyn and, though the island is not permanently inhabited by anybody, several ambitious projects have helped expand it to a size of about 300 acres over time.

Conclusion to Island in New York City

New York is much more than Manhattan, Long Island, Staten Island (and the mainland Bronx)—it’s a collection of many different islands. Whether you are interested in history, nature, a seaside resort, or a combination thereof, there is sure to be a hidden island for you.

(correction: an earlier version of our article incorrectly stated that the Roosevelt Island Bridge and the Queensboro Bridge both originated in Brooklyn, not Queens.) 

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Best Kept Secrets NYC

1) The Whispering Gallery at Grand Central Terminal

Some secrets of New York can be whispered from 30 feet away, as long as they’re spoken into the walls of the Whispering Gallery at Grand Central Terminal, one of New York’s busiest transportation hubs.

The gallery sits near Oyster Bar Restaurant in the terminal’s Main Concourse. For visitors who aren’t aware of it, it resembles nothing more than an arched walkway with curved walls and an ornate ceiling in a basketweave pattern.

The trick behind this secret NYC attraction is simple yet clever: Those standing on opposite corners of the arched entryway can hear each other clearly by speaking normally into the wall. This is because the gallery’s unique design promotes “acoustic resonance,” a phenomenon whereby certain sounds are amplified when they bounce off of hard surfaces.

In this case, sound waves travel up the curved ceiling and along the archway until they’re delivered to the person on the other end. This works despite the heavy chatter and footsteps of passersby, which makes it the perfect spot for a secret conversation.

2) Glass Bottle Beach at Dead Horse Bay

Located between Marine Park and Jamaica Bay in Brooklyn, Dead Horse Bay was named after a long-defunct horse-rendering company that once operated in the area in the late 1800s and early 1900s. During this period, horse carcasses were used to manufacture glue and fertilizer. But as the auto industry took off, the demand for horse-powered buggies dwindled across the city and Dead Horse Bay became a landfill.

Today, thousands of broken bottles and jagged glass shards litter the shoreline of Glass Bottle Beach in Dead Horse Bay. This resulted when a cap filled with waste burst in the 1950s. The cap continues to wash up other non-decomposable items on the shore. It’s not the prettiest of sites. But as they say, one person’s trash is another person’s treasure, and Glass Bottle Beach is just that.

3) Roof Gardens at Rockefeller Center

Rockefeller Center’s central plaza is an indisputable New York City icon. But the buildings that surround it are often overlooked, including several Art Deco sibling towers facing Fifth Avenue. These lesser-known structures make up a collection of regal gardens perched high above the hustle and bustle of midtown.

The five rooftop gardens at Rockefeller Center date back to the 1930s. They each have well-manicured topiaries, with hedges trimmed into ornamental shapes and flowerbeds surrounding tall spruces. They were open to the public and meant to provide an oasis for New Yorkers living and working in the middle of a concrete jungle.

But maintenance of the “Gardens in the Sky” (as they were called) proved fruitless, with operations resulting in an annual loss of $45,000, which wasn’t exactly “chump change” back then. Today, three of the lonely gardens can be viewed from the Top of the Rock Observation Deck, and one of them, called 620 Loft & Garden, can be rented for weddings and other special occasions.

4) The Fairy Doors of NYC

We all know that garden gnomes live in tree hollows and that leprechauns hang out near rainbows. Fairies, on the other hand, occupy little crevices in NYC marked by tiny doors. These cute entrances are pieces by American pop artist Cynthia Von Buhler. Several of them are stamped with QR codes that, once properly scanned, reveal the location of the Speakeasy Dollhouse where guests are treated to an interactive murder mystery.

But not all of the 150+ fairy doors scattered across the city are works by Von Buhler alone. Many of them are creations by Von Buhler’s fans who are ultimately responsible for putting this secret NYC attraction on the map.

Some fairy doors can be found near pedestrian crossings or on lamp posts in Manhattan. A few of them are even glued onto tree trunks in Queens. It’s not clear who decides where they’ll appear next, but it seems that some New Yorkers are still making their fairy homes in unexpected places.

5) The Roxy Suite at Radio City Music Hall

Radio City opened its doors in 1932 when Art Deco architecture was at its zenith. Today, a hallmark of Art Deco design lingers on at the Roxy Suite, a secret New York City attraction that still features its original 1930s decor. The suite can be accessed via the Radio City Stage Door Tour. In some cases, it can be rented out for luxury events.

Adorned with plush sofas in striped and leather upholstery, this elegant hideaway features soaring ceilings, wood-paneled walls, and brass fixtures on some of the furniture. Radio City’s architect, Edward Durrell Stone, and its interior designer, Donald Deskey, gifted the ritzy suite to Samuel “Roxy” Rothafel who served as the venue’s entertainment director.

Rothafel helped propel Radio City Music Hall to stardom by producing one of its most popular shows. When it first debuted at Radio City, the show was called “The Roxyettes” after Rothafel himself. Later, it was changed to “The Rockettes” whose eye-high kick lines are featured in Radio City’s Christmas Spectacular.

6) Gold Bars at NYC’s Federal Reserve Bank

The Federal Reserve Bank of New York was modeled after an ancient Greek temple, with white stone columns facing Maiden Lane in Lower Manhattan. The Greek Revival building is stunning in its own right, but what it contains inside is even more mind-blowing than its architecture.

Deep in the basement of the New York Federal Reserve Bank, a special vault contains approximately 497,000 bars of pure gold, weighing roughly 6,000 tons. Besides it being one of NYC’s best-kept secrets, this underground treasure is also the largest gold vault in the world.

The bank offers two morning slots for schools to tour the vault during the week; one at 10 AM and the other at 11 AM. The tour then opens to the general public at 1 PM and 2 PM.

For more hidden gems in NYC, along with better-known attractions, visit our Culture & Art section and check out our top Things to Do in this vibrant city that never sleeps.

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