In light of my friends recent non-relationship, I would like to start a series of quick cheap dates that you, my lovely readers, can partake in. Today is an ode to the Piers on the Hudson, starting down by Wall street and stretching up until 20th or so, these piers are incredible places to walk, people watch, dog watch, and overall enjoy a fantastic day! Over the summer these piers host a number of events like fishing, movies and dancing but everyday they are a great place to chill and get to know that special someone. (or cartwheel on the impeccable lawns and turf fields, your choice).
Before heading out to these oasis' of delight pick up some hot chocolate at the incredible 11th street cafe between Greenwich and Washington streets just a block and a half from the piers themselves. (cross over on 11th street) (You know it's good when they don't even have a website). Honestly, the hot chocolate here is so good I literally stopped mid step every time I took a sip. Though the counter people can sometimes be pretentious (it is the west village after all) the hot cocoa is beyond incredible, ask for it with whipped cream and a little caramel drizzle and it's to die for. The iced coffee is incredible as well, full and actually tasting of coffee you feel you're sucking straight from the beans. Live, love and enjoy.
Friday, April 27, 2007
Thursday, April 26, 2007
(Cheap) Bookworm!
Mmm mmm Do I love my quick book fixes! There really isn't anything better than taking a break from this crazy city and checking out for a while in a fantastic novel. While this city does boast some incredible local bookstores (Three Lives in Co is a personal favorite, their recommendations are beyond belief!) we could always use a cheaper alternatives. Luckily, as usual, being in the city allows for a way to indulge your mind AND save your wallet. The only drawback is you won't necessarily find every book you want here BUT you will earn your bang for your buck! See my favorite picks below!
1) Your (or my) local stand on the street!
Right around washington square are a number of wonderful guys with an actual GREAT solution of books! My favorite is a little one or two table stand on West fourth street just east of Washington Square park. This guy has AMAZING selections (recent purchases include The Handmaid's Tale (3 bucks), Like Water for Chocolate (5 bucks) and The Amazing Adventures of Cavelier and Clay (7 bucks).
Another great alternative is the line of stands on 6th ave between 18th and 21st streets. These you might have to dig through a bit more. Recent buys include Bel Canto (4 bucks) and How the Garcia Girls Lost Their Accents (4 bucks)/
2) The Strand
On the corner of 12th and Broadway and boasting the infamous 18 miles of books (done by the shelf space). This store is not only surrounded by a buck a book shelves but boasts a wide array of VERY marked down books (recent buys include Assassination Vacation for 4.75 and Memories of My Melancholy Whores for 6ish). TONS and TONS of books with a wide arrange of selections including many best sellers and top reads, this is a place not just to buy a book but spend an afternoon.
3) HousingWorks Used Book Cafe
On Crosby by Broadway, this place not only boasts knowledgeable staff, a great cafe, fantastic speakers (including a children's book on Pot and the makers of the white rapper show which I happened upon randomly one day as I perused the shelves) and is an overall laid back place to read (recent purchases include The Time Traveler's Wife, 7 bucks) , but you can feel good about your purchases too! As all the books are donated, 100 percent of all proceeds go to Housing Works, a non for profit which provides housing, health care, job training, advocacy and other services to homeless New Yorkers living with AIDS. Now THAT'S food for thought! Plus, do good and volunteer a few of your hours with the fantastic knowledgeable staff at the store!
1) Your (or my) local stand on the street!
Right around washington square are a number of wonderful guys with an actual GREAT solution of books! My favorite is a little one or two table stand on West fourth street just east of Washington Square park. This guy has AMAZING selections (recent purchases include The Handmaid's Tale (3 bucks), Like Water for Chocolate (5 bucks) and The Amazing Adventures of Cavelier and Clay (7 bucks).
Another great alternative is the line of stands on 6th ave between 18th and 21st streets. These you might have to dig through a bit more. Recent buys include Bel Canto (4 bucks) and How the Garcia Girls Lost Their Accents (4 bucks)/
2) The Strand
On the corner of 12th and Broadway and boasting the infamous 18 miles of books (done by the shelf space). This store is not only surrounded by a buck a book shelves but boasts a wide array of VERY marked down books (recent buys include Assassination Vacation for 4.75 and Memories of My Melancholy Whores for 6ish). TONS and TONS of books with a wide arrange of selections including many best sellers and top reads, this is a place not just to buy a book but spend an afternoon.
3) HousingWorks Used Book Cafe
On Crosby by Broadway, this place not only boasts knowledgeable staff, a great cafe, fantastic speakers (including a children's book on Pot and the makers of the white rapper show which I happened upon randomly one day as I perused the shelves) and is an overall laid back place to read (recent purchases include The Time Traveler's Wife, 7 bucks) , but you can feel good about your purchases too! As all the books are donated, 100 percent of all proceeds go to Housing Works, a non for profit which provides housing, health care, job training, advocacy and other services to homeless New Yorkers living with AIDS. Now THAT'S food for thought! Plus, do good and volunteer a few of your hours with the fantastic knowledgeable staff at the store!
Wednesday, April 25, 2007
Study (or life) break! Milk and Cookies!
The library sucks, studying sucks, exams suck, work sucks (sound like a familiar tune in your head?) Well get ready to bust out into cartwheels because today's topic of conversation discusses the sweetest of all sweet shops.... MILK AND COOKIES!
Boasting probably the best cookies in Manhattan, a warm atmosphere, chalk tables to draw on and boisterous funny bakers, Milk and Cookies is my number one choice for the perfect study break. Not only are their cookies divine (my favorites are the chocolate chip JAM packed with chips and the chocolate mint chip, dark chocolate with mint chips) and served with a glass of milk, but they'll also make ice cream sandwiches with your choice of cookies/ gelato and have incredible brownies and sundaes! They'll also make your own dozen or sell cookie dough OR deliver cookies to that poor little blogger so weighed down with finals (hint hint). All in all, the perfect place for a mid study/ life slump treat! A glass of milk and two cookies will set you back four bucks, but it's worth it, trust me!
Milk and Cookies is located on Commerce Street (right under Bleecker) between 7th Ave and Bedford. Hop on the 1 to Christopher and you're there!
Boasting probably the best cookies in Manhattan, a warm atmosphere, chalk tables to draw on and boisterous funny bakers, Milk and Cookies is my number one choice for the perfect study break. Not only are their cookies divine (my favorites are the chocolate chip JAM packed with chips and the chocolate mint chip, dark chocolate with mint chips) and served with a glass of milk, but they'll also make ice cream sandwiches with your choice of cookies/ gelato and have incredible brownies and sundaes! They'll also make your own dozen or sell cookie dough OR deliver cookies to that poor little blogger so weighed down with finals (hint hint). All in all, the perfect place for a mid study/ life slump treat! A glass of milk and two cookies will set you back four bucks, but it's worth it, trust me!
Milk and Cookies is located on Commerce Street (right under Bleecker) between 7th Ave and Bedford. Hop on the 1 to Christopher and you're there!
Tuesday, April 24, 2007
Because it's SPRING (AWAKENING)
Alright, I waited an entire week before I GUSHED about my new favorite Broadway musical....
SPRING AWAKENING!
I think it now goes down as my most-frequented NYC cheap event as I have been a whopping four times (beating out Rent in my Bway count) and have, honestly, thought I enjoy it more and more each time. Not only is it fresh and provides some amazing tunes (it's all I listen to in finals mode) but the cast is young, the choreography is modern and the stories, while jolted from time to time, are compelling.
About teenage rebellion and SEX this show brings us back to 1891 Germany (when the original play was written) where teens are suppressed, molested, horny, curious and pissed (when are they not?) The information is limited and their bodies are raring. There are many parts which could be done better (the use of a homosexual relationship as comic relief, the taking out of the original clear date rape scene etc), there are still parts more honest than most plays I have seen and it's FRESH. To be honest, I wasn't overwhelmed the first time but after I went home I found the songs permeating through my mind (see a music video here) and I felt compelled to go back. Second time was the charm, third and forth too. STAY AFTER and be a theater nerd and chat with the amazingly nice and down to earth cast and become addicted.
For 26.25 student tickets bring ID and CASH to the theater on 49th between Broadway and 8th. Box office opens 10am M-S and noon on Sundays. Get there a good two hours beforehand as they reserve student seats for every show but it is v, popular. OH! and if you get "partial view" seats, ask for ones on audience right, you'll miss less that way.
just GO, seriously, actually go TWICE (it's WAYYY better times two, or at least learn the songs before hand (they're on itunes).
SPRING AWAKENING!
I think it now goes down as my most-frequented NYC cheap event as I have been a whopping four times (beating out Rent in my Bway count) and have, honestly, thought I enjoy it more and more each time. Not only is it fresh and provides some amazing tunes (it's all I listen to in finals mode) but the cast is young, the choreography is modern and the stories, while jolted from time to time, are compelling.
About teenage rebellion and SEX this show brings us back to 1891 Germany (when the original play was written) where teens are suppressed, molested, horny, curious and pissed (when are they not?) The information is limited and their bodies are raring. There are many parts which could be done better (the use of a homosexual relationship as comic relief, the taking out of the original clear date rape scene etc), there are still parts more honest than most plays I have seen and it's FRESH. To be honest, I wasn't overwhelmed the first time but after I went home I found the songs permeating through my mind (see a music video here) and I felt compelled to go back. Second time was the charm, third and forth too. STAY AFTER and be a theater nerd and chat with the amazingly nice and down to earth cast and become addicted.
For 26.25 student tickets bring ID and CASH to the theater on 49th between Broadway and 8th. Box office opens 10am M-S and noon on Sundays. Get there a good two hours beforehand as they reserve student seats for every show but it is v, popular. OH! and if you get "partial view" seats, ask for ones on audience right, you'll miss less that way.
just GO, seriously, actually go TWICE (it's WAYYY better times two, or at least learn the songs before hand (they're on itunes).
Monday, April 23, 2007
Icey Presidents? Frost/Nixon
Today's entry will be short and sweet. I've mentioned it before but now I have supreme backup from my bible, the New York Times.
Go see FROST/NIXON! An amazing take on the tv interviews which basically got Nixon to admit his guilt featuring what I think is the best acting since I saw Meryl Streep in Mother Courage last summer. Minus a few made up facts I thought it was a wonderful depiction of a crazy time. I didn't want this gem of a play to end and was utterly delighted at the end.
But don't take my word for it, read the NYT review!
And of course, there are cheap student tickets "when available". We got front row center seats by showing up half an hour before the box office opened. (Though you may need to get there earlier now it's received rave reviews from practically all the major news sources). Tkts are 26.25 per person bring cash and your school id. Two tickets per person, box office is located at on 45th street between Broadway and 8th.
Go! seriously! NOW!
Go see FROST/NIXON! An amazing take on the tv interviews which basically got Nixon to admit his guilt featuring what I think is the best acting since I saw Meryl Streep in Mother Courage last summer. Minus a few made up facts I thought it was a wonderful depiction of a crazy time. I didn't want this gem of a play to end and was utterly delighted at the end.
But don't take my word for it, read the NYT review!
And of course, there are cheap student tickets "when available". We got front row center seats by showing up half an hour before the box office opened. (Though you may need to get there earlier now it's received rave reviews from practically all the major news sources). Tkts are 26.25 per person bring cash and your school id. Two tickets per person, box office is located at on 45th street between Broadway and 8th.
Go! seriously! NOW!
Sunday, April 22, 2007
Jiaozi jiaozi jiaozi! (dumplings!)
First the New Yorker, then TONY and now, I, L.A. Burke shall sing the praises of
THE DUMPLING HOUSE!
Probably my favorite and most -frequented restaurant of Manhattan, this beyond tiny shop (think half the size of Magnolia's) is home to some of the most delicious dumplings this side of Beijing. and trust me, if there is one thing I know it's my dumplings. These suckers come at five for a buck in the fried pork variety and while there are many other similar places none has found quite as near and dear a place in my heart. Here goes the list.
1) The EXPERIENCE is unbeatable. There's nothing that can bring me back to China more than small crowded spaces with shouting people who refuse to line up and who are dying for a snack. Forgo the line that draws near the door and elbow your way into a spot at the counter.
2) The SANDWICHES. Otherwise known as "niu rou bing" or sesame pancake with beef (or tuna, I like beef though!) are piping hot fluffy mounds of sesame bread goodness stuffed with beef, carrots, cilantro and a great sauce, all for a buck fifty.
3) The FROZEN DUMPLINGS are to die for, seriously I bought a bag of the veggie ones to get me through finals (five bucks for 25) and ate the entire thing in one night. Ok, I ate 16 but still, that's a lot. Hands down the best veggie dumplings in the entire city, as if the pork ones aren't enough. And beat that "vegetarians eat cheaper" fallacy and buy 30 frozen pork ones for 5 as well.
Basically, go , eat and enjoy. You'll quite possibly have one of the best meals that 3.75 can buy (five pork fried dumplings = $1, beef sesame sandwich = $1.50, peach snapple iced tea= $1.25)
Where: On Eldridge by Broome Street, look for the big red sign. You'll only find seats if you're struck by the grace of God so take your goodies down a few blocks west on Broome and stake out the picnic tables in the park while watching intramural soccer.
Take the orange line to Delancy street. Jiaozi jiaozi jiaozi!!!
THE DUMPLING HOUSE!
Probably my favorite and most -frequented restaurant of Manhattan, this beyond tiny shop (think half the size of Magnolia's) is home to some of the most delicious dumplings this side of Beijing. and trust me, if there is one thing I know it's my dumplings. These suckers come at five for a buck in the fried pork variety and while there are many other similar places none has found quite as near and dear a place in my heart. Here goes the list.
1) The EXPERIENCE is unbeatable. There's nothing that can bring me back to China more than small crowded spaces with shouting people who refuse to line up and who are dying for a snack. Forgo the line that draws near the door and elbow your way into a spot at the counter.
2) The SANDWICHES. Otherwise known as "niu rou bing" or sesame pancake with beef (or tuna, I like beef though!) are piping hot fluffy mounds of sesame bread goodness stuffed with beef, carrots, cilantro and a great sauce, all for a buck fifty.
3) The FROZEN DUMPLINGS are to die for, seriously I bought a bag of the veggie ones to get me through finals (five bucks for 25) and ate the entire thing in one night. Ok, I ate 16 but still, that's a lot. Hands down the best veggie dumplings in the entire city, as if the pork ones aren't enough. And beat that "vegetarians eat cheaper" fallacy and buy 30 frozen pork ones for 5 as well.
Basically, go , eat and enjoy. You'll quite possibly have one of the best meals that 3.75 can buy (five pork fried dumplings = $1, beef sesame sandwich = $1.50, peach snapple iced tea= $1.25)
Where: On Eldridge by Broome Street, look for the big red sign. You'll only find seats if you're struck by the grace of God so take your goodies down a few blocks west on Broome and stake out the picnic tables in the park while watching intramural soccer.
Take the orange line to Delancy street. Jiaozi jiaozi jiaozi!!!
Saturday, April 21, 2007
Get OUT! (side)
As I sit here procrastinating from studying and with a new sunburn on my back, I realize how amazing it is to be out of doors and running around without a care in the world. This, my friends, is a post-ode to running around on grass barefoot, wide open spaces and fresh blue air.
Not in New York City you say! Wrong! Wrong wrong!
Today I experienced what was perhaps the most satisfying morning of my life at the Brooklyn Botanical Gardens which I have now mentioned in this not even one week old post THREE TIMES. These gardens are not only free on Tuesdays and Saturdays from 10am- noon (except on holidays/ festivals like next Saturdays cherry blossom viewing) but offer wide expanse of spaces in which to frolick, run, and do piggy back races! The cherry blossoms were gorgeous and the mood was perfect in which to celebrate this over 70 degree day!
Now, here are some issues with said park. You are not allowed food (rat problem) blankets (oxygen problem) sport activities aka Frisbees (who knows what problem) or, as Ethan or Ben put it, Mirth. No worries though, get there early enough to stake out a spot at cherry lane and eat your packed lunch (though the cafe's prices were reasonable I am told by my paying friends) when the guards aren't looking, same to frisbee. If you would like a code name to shout out when you see a 'Curity (as Roma called him) guard, you can borrow our code word "Jake" and call it a day. The picture is us playing frisbee at Cherry lane shortly before getting busted.
There are other less-known places to visit in the boroughs, however and so far my favorite has got to be the Alley Pond Environmental Center. While it takes nearly a good two hours to get to this haven from the city (though I was with an 8 year old and we were, I believe, stuck on a train that stopped for a large chunk of time, so, come to think of it, that may be wildly inaccurate, but still it's FAR), this place boasts over 635 acres of woodlands, marshes, and trails which are beyond gorgeous and that's coming from a New England gal. The paths are almost mystical as they wind around bamboo trees and pass by cranes and you can't imagine being farther from the city. My companion and I barely saw anyone else there the entire day and the visitors center boasts a fantastic mini-zoo (v mini mind you) with rabbits and chinchilla's and the like and the workers were all too happy to take the critters out of the cages and let us pet them. For anyone seeking refuge from the city, this is the place to be and guess what? It's FREE. Always. AMAZING!
It's in Queens but the website will do a MUCH better job of explaining how to get there. Just put on some sneakers, pack a book and lunch and go.
Friday, April 20, 2007
Raise your glass (and IQ!)
Sorry for the late in the day post and for the fact that this will be short but finals time is in the air and I, for one, am in need of a drink and free ones are even better!
Every Sunday night at Tortilla Flats there is a weekly game of what is quite possibly my favorite drinking sport of all time, that's right it's TRIVIA NIGHT!
Starting at around seven and taking place around every half hour Tortilla flats hosts a knock-out game of trivia where questions, mainly from trivial pursuit, are read aloud as patrons scream out the answer. First person to get each question right gets a free shot of fantastic delicious tequila, lime included. I LOOOVEEEE trivia night and this bar makes it beyond fun as you can scream out anything you like and everyone gets in on the action. The food is quite delicious (ranging from 8-15 dollars for an entree) and the margaritas (35-50 pitchers) are tasty. Best of all, if you've got the brains the tequila is FREE. Only problem is the more you win the less likely you may be to ever learn anything again!
Where: Tortilla Flats, On the corner of West 12th street and Washington Street. Take ACE123 to 14th street, L to 8th ave
When: Sundays, 7ish to 11ish
ssswwweeeeetttttt
PS: L.A. tip! If you are choosing to come here for your birthday beware, cluing them into your upcoming celebration may cause you to receive complimentary "birthday spankings" from the Bartender. Thanks Julia. Sexism aside it's really a fun place!
Every Sunday night at Tortilla Flats there is a weekly game of what is quite possibly my favorite drinking sport of all time, that's right it's TRIVIA NIGHT!
Starting at around seven and taking place around every half hour Tortilla flats hosts a knock-out game of trivia where questions, mainly from trivial pursuit, are read aloud as patrons scream out the answer. First person to get each question right gets a free shot of fantastic delicious tequila, lime included. I LOOOVEEEE trivia night and this bar makes it beyond fun as you can scream out anything you like and everyone gets in on the action. The food is quite delicious (ranging from 8-15 dollars for an entree) and the margaritas (35-50 pitchers) are tasty. Best of all, if you've got the brains the tequila is FREE. Only problem is the more you win the less likely you may be to ever learn anything again!
Where: Tortilla Flats, On the corner of West 12th street and Washington Street. Take ACE123 to 14th street, L to 8th ave
When: Sundays, 7ish to 11ish
ssswwweeeeetttttt
PS: L.A. tip! If you are choosing to come here for your birthday beware, cluing them into your upcoming celebration may cause you to receive complimentary "birthday spankings" from the Bartender. Thanks Julia. Sexism aside it's really a fun place!
Thursday, April 19, 2007
For all you law students checking this in class
Many of you claim that you cannot partake in anything free or fun around the city because "you have to study!". This weekend my friend Ben Schwartz and I are checking in on the Brooklyn Botanical Garden's cherry blosson festival during their FREE HOURS from 10-12. A conversation follows
Me: Everyone is SHOCKED that I am actually leaving the library this weekend.
Ben: The library is for books.
Are you a book?
You are a human
Prove it by being outdoors.
:)
Me: Everyone is SHOCKED that I am actually leaving the library this weekend.
Ben: The library is for books.
Are you a book?
You are a human
Prove it by being outdoors.
:)
Hand me-UP (cheap clothes)
Hello hello again!
While it is gray and gloomy outside I can just feel spring ready to burst behind the clouds and we all know what that means, time for spring clothes! Hurrah for sundresses and skirts and shorts and halters, perfect for what may be the last summer at coney island ever and the only things we can possibly wear to survive Manhattan's blistering summers.
Ahhhh, if only clothes weren't so expensive, right?
Wrong! What you have to realize is that people in Manhattan are clothes crazy trend-fiends who buy clothes only to wear them once and then want to get rid of them by making a quick buck. That is where you, my dear friends enter and here are some secrets to finding the best, cheapest Hand-me-UP clothes around, plus two events ongoing this weekend to get your closet started.
First off, while you all probably know the site you might be lacking in understand it can be good for more than one night stands and the ever-allusive "missed connections." That's right, it's
Craigslist!
Just go under the "for sale" section and search for clothes under garage sales (yes yes they have them in manhattan, it's like a tag sale/ yard sale/ please buy my shit so I have more room in my miniscule closet sale). I've been to at least three of the events and have found wonderful pieces in each INCLUDING two pairs of citizen jeans already hemmed for my height for 10 bucks a pop and an incredible shirt dress for only 5. Beat THAT forever 21! (who i love as well, actually, go there too!) As much as I love other vintage stores they can get a wee bit pricey and often it's more of a fun experience then a hardcore cheap shopping haven.
So hurrah for craigslist!
Ok, now onto THIS WEEKEND. Granted, I usually only post things here that I have attended but these events look too good to pass up (thanks Time Out New York for cluing me in, what would I do without you?)
on SATURDAY and in celebration of earth day secondhand store Buffalo Exchange is hosting a ONE DOLLAR (that's right $1!!!) "bonanza" where all proceeds will benefit Center for Environmental Health.
details:
When: Saturday, April 21, 11am- 8pm
Where: Buffalo Exchange, 504 Driggs Ave at North 9th Street, Williamsburg, BKLYN
(Subway L to to Bedford)
and SUNDAY brings what looks like a fabulous event for all NYU students (it looks fabulous for everyone else too, they just have to pay 10 bucks to get in)
What's being labeled a "swap o rama rama" some fantabulous people are organizing a clothing swap event where bringing in a bag of your un-wanteds allows you to paw through everyone else's goods (the clothes silly!). They also hold "DIY workshops" (also FREE) on how to alter your clothing to suit your fashion needs. Best part is, you can take home whatever you can carry!
When: Sunay, April 22, 1pm-6pm
Where: NYU Eisner & Lubin Auditorium, 60 Washington Square South at LaGuardia Pl, 4th floor.
Getting There: Subway ACEDF to West 4th
Cost: FREE for NYU-ers, everyone else it's a 10 dollar "donation"
enjoy and love!
While it is gray and gloomy outside I can just feel spring ready to burst behind the clouds and we all know what that means, time for spring clothes! Hurrah for sundresses and skirts and shorts and halters, perfect for what may be the last summer at coney island ever and the only things we can possibly wear to survive Manhattan's blistering summers.
Ahhhh, if only clothes weren't so expensive, right?
Wrong! What you have to realize is that people in Manhattan are clothes crazy trend-fiends who buy clothes only to wear them once and then want to get rid of them by making a quick buck. That is where you, my dear friends enter and here are some secrets to finding the best, cheapest Hand-me-UP clothes around, plus two events ongoing this weekend to get your closet started.
First off, while you all probably know the site you might be lacking in understand it can be good for more than one night stands and the ever-allusive "missed connections." That's right, it's
Craigslist!
Just go under the "for sale" section and search for clothes under garage sales (yes yes they have them in manhattan, it's like a tag sale/ yard sale/ please buy my shit so I have more room in my miniscule closet sale). I've been to at least three of the events and have found wonderful pieces in each INCLUDING two pairs of citizen jeans already hemmed for my height for 10 bucks a pop and an incredible shirt dress for only 5. Beat THAT forever 21! (who i love as well, actually, go there too!) As much as I love other vintage stores they can get a wee bit pricey and often it's more of a fun experience then a hardcore cheap shopping haven.
So hurrah for craigslist!
Ok, now onto THIS WEEKEND. Granted, I usually only post things here that I have attended but these events look too good to pass up (thanks Time Out New York for cluing me in, what would I do without you?)
on SATURDAY and in celebration of earth day secondhand store Buffalo Exchange is hosting a ONE DOLLAR (that's right $1!!!) "bonanza" where all proceeds will benefit Center for Environmental Health.
details:
When: Saturday, April 21, 11am- 8pm
Where: Buffalo Exchange, 504 Driggs Ave at North 9th Street, Williamsburg, BKLYN
(Subway L to to Bedford)
and SUNDAY brings what looks like a fabulous event for all NYU students (it looks fabulous for everyone else too, they just have to pay 10 bucks to get in)
What's being labeled a "swap o rama rama" some fantabulous people are organizing a clothing swap event where bringing in a bag of your un-wanteds allows you to paw through everyone else's goods (the clothes silly!). They also hold "DIY workshops" (also FREE) on how to alter your clothing to suit your fashion needs. Best part is, you can take home whatever you can carry!
When: Sunay, April 22, 1pm-6pm
Where: NYU Eisner & Lubin Auditorium, 60 Washington Square South at LaGuardia Pl, 4th floor.
Getting There: Subway ACEDF to West 4th
Cost: FREE for NYU-ers, everyone else it's a 10 dollar "donation"
enjoy and love!
Wednesday, April 18, 2007
Taste of Chinatown!
While my mood is not one of delight today given the recent events at VT and the SCOTUS ban of partial birth abortion, the parade of free fun things in the city must go on!
The taste of Chinatown is this Saturday, April 21st from 12-6pm!
I went over the summer and while it was jam-packed it was also uber fun and wicked tasty (yes yes I am from MA). Aside from the wonderfully cheap tasting plates of 1-2 dollars (Though be prepared to wait upwards of half an hour if you want peking duck at this price!) there are performances and fortune cookie writing contest!
If you're an NYU student you can also VOLUNTEER for this event getting a free t-shirt and five dollar food coupon. Helping out + free stuff = amazing!!!
To volunteer from 12-4pm simply go here
and from 4-7 try here!
Happy eating!
The taste of Chinatown is this Saturday, April 21st from 12-6pm!
I went over the summer and while it was jam-packed it was also uber fun and wicked tasty (yes yes I am from MA). Aside from the wonderfully cheap tasting plates of 1-2 dollars (Though be prepared to wait upwards of half an hour if you want peking duck at this price!) there are performances and fortune cookie writing contest!
If you're an NYU student you can also VOLUNTEER for this event getting a free t-shirt and five dollar food coupon. Helping out + free stuff = amazing!!!
To volunteer from 12-4pm simply go here
and from 4-7 try here!
Happy eating!
Tuesday, April 17, 2007
Assssssscat 3000!!!!!!
Hello my loves!
This posting will mark the beginning of my daily posts as well. If you click on the subject at the bottom right of this post it should say comedy and Sunday. Now, if you click on Sunday you will be transported to a world of all the amazing wonderful incredible free and cheap events which happen every Sunday in our dear city (or I'll write when). True, for now I have only started Sundays and only have this one event but in the future I dream of bringing many many events for you each and every day of the week!
Ok, on to assssssscat3000!
Assscat (the number of s's you use is debatable I swear) is an improv comedy group at the Upright Citizens Brigade Theater. While I love many of the groups this theater hosts there are a number of things which make assscat near and dear in my heart.
1) Assscat often hosts a number of improv allstars in the city. I've seen it hosted a number of times by Amy Poehler who is beyond hilarious despite appearing in Blades of Glory, and it always boasts a line up of SNL, Best Week Ever and the Daily Show/ Colbert report regulars.
2) The show is FREE (but bring a few bucks for the bucket of truth at the end, it's kinda scary!) Which makes it all the more amazing!
Here's the rundown:
What: Assscat 3000 improv comedy
Where: UCBT on 26th between 8th and 9th avenues (take ACE to 23rd!)
When: Sunday nights at 9 30, tickets are handed out at 8 15
When do you REALLY have to get there: I would recommend 7 15 at the LATEST to ensure seating!
Cost: NOTHING AT ALL!!!!
enjoy! :)
This posting will mark the beginning of my daily posts as well. If you click on the subject at the bottom right of this post it should say comedy and Sunday. Now, if you click on Sunday you will be transported to a world of all the amazing wonderful incredible free and cheap events which happen every Sunday in our dear city (or I'll write when). True, for now I have only started Sundays and only have this one event but in the future I dream of bringing many many events for you each and every day of the week!
Ok, on to assssssscat3000!
Assscat (the number of s's you use is debatable I swear) is an improv comedy group at the Upright Citizens Brigade Theater. While I love many of the groups this theater hosts there are a number of things which make assscat near and dear in my heart.
1) Assscat often hosts a number of improv allstars in the city. I've seen it hosted a number of times by Amy Poehler who is beyond hilarious despite appearing in Blades of Glory, and it always boasts a line up of SNL, Best Week Ever and the Daily Show/ Colbert report regulars.
2) The show is FREE (but bring a few bucks for the bucket of truth at the end, it's kinda scary!) Which makes it all the more amazing!
Here's the rundown:
What: Assscat 3000 improv comedy
Where: UCBT on 26th between 8th and 9th avenues (take ACE to 23rd!)
When: Sunday nights at 9 30, tickets are handed out at 8 15
When do you REALLY have to get there: I would recommend 7 15 at the LATEST to ensure seating!
Cost: NOTHING AT ALL!!!!
enjoy! :)
A Lesson in free digs
Well friends, today I learned a very sad lesson in free stuff and defeat....
As many of you know today was free cone day at Ben and Jerrys, all day long my tastebuds longed for the sweet stickiness which would only be enhanced by the fact that I did absolutely nothing to deserve said wonderfulness. Due to a number of complications, including the fact that I don't like to indulge in pure sugar before three, it wasn't until it was 7 45 pm while I was sitting in my con law review session when I realized that i only had 15 minutes before my chance for free cones was up for an ENTIRE YEAR! I left class, tripping over five bags at 17 more dedicated law students then myself, threw on my coat and ran outside in the freezing rain, rounded Sullivan, took a left on Bleecker and readied myself for......
A BOARDED UP BUILDING! The Ben and Jerrys I had so lovingly frequented (ok, it was only once, and it was only because it's across the street from my favorite bar....but still!) was gone and good, possibly forever, and I had to return to con law back to the glaring eyes and clicking keyboards of gunners and the 14th amendments interpretations defeated, sad, and lonely with no free ice cream love.
My message to you dear friends is this, free things can be fickle in this crazy city, but we wouldn't want it any other way. Just check to make sure you know where you're going and that it actually exists before heading out for a free day of fun, otherwise you may miss it for another year......
As many of you know today was free cone day at Ben and Jerrys, all day long my tastebuds longed for the sweet stickiness which would only be enhanced by the fact that I did absolutely nothing to deserve said wonderfulness. Due to a number of complications, including the fact that I don't like to indulge in pure sugar before three, it wasn't until it was 7 45 pm while I was sitting in my con law review session when I realized that i only had 15 minutes before my chance for free cones was up for an ENTIRE YEAR! I left class, tripping over five bags at 17 more dedicated law students then myself, threw on my coat and ran outside in the freezing rain, rounded Sullivan, took a left on Bleecker and readied myself for......
A BOARDED UP BUILDING! The Ben and Jerrys I had so lovingly frequented (ok, it was only once, and it was only because it's across the street from my favorite bar....but still!) was gone and good, possibly forever, and I had to return to con law back to the glaring eyes and clicking keyboards of gunners and the 14th amendments interpretations defeated, sad, and lonely with no free ice cream love.
My message to you dear friends is this, free things can be fickle in this crazy city, but we wouldn't want it any other way. Just check to make sure you know where you're going and that it actually exists before heading out for a free day of fun, otherwise you may miss it for another year......
FREE ICE CREAM!
It's true! Today is free cone day at Ben and Jerry's! Find your local shop here
Ben and Jerry's!
So fun! So good! I recommend New York Super Fudge Chunk.
**** some people are confused, namely fellow law students, you get the ice cream for free too. damn textualists trying to ruin our fun, not this time Scalia!
Ben and Jerry's!
So fun! So good! I recommend New York Super Fudge Chunk.
**** some people are confused, namely fellow law students, you get the ice cream for free too. damn textualists trying to ruin our fun, not this time Scalia!
Monday, April 16, 2007
Free as I like it (Picasso would too)
Here's a list of museums in the city and the nights they have "pay as you wish" aka free days. Keep in mind that many museums are pay as you wish all the time (ie the Met, though the guards might stare you down if you don't give a buck or two) these are just the nights that museums allow you to go all out on your broke-ness. These nights can be more crowded but enjoy away!
Tuesdays:
Brooklyn Botanical Garden, all day!
Wave Hill, all day
Thursdays:
New Museum of Contemporary Art, 6-8pm (note! I got this one from another website, it might need verification!)
Children's Museum of the Arts, 4-6pm
Fridays:
MOMA, 4: 30- 8: 15pm
Whitney, 6-9pm
Guggenheim, 5:45- 7:45pm (last ticket issued at 7:15)
Asia Society, 6-9pm
Bronx Museum of the Arts, All day!
International Center of Photography, 5-8pm
Saturdays:
Brooklyn Botanical Garden, 10am-noon
Jewish Museum, 11 am - 5: 45pm
Wave Hill, 9am- noon
Studio Museum in Harlem, First Sat of each month
what about the met you ask? sillies, it's ALWAYS "pay as you wish"! ;)
DISCLAIMER: clearly I do not advocate putting these fine fine institutions, least of all the Met, out of business by failing to pay admissions. For the time being while we are broke 20somethings though, I think we could all use a little relief. Those of you who will actually be making big bucks some day can pay back for the rest of us when you wish you were young and eating only mac and cheese again!
Tuesdays:
Brooklyn Botanical Garden, all day!
Wave Hill, all day
Thursdays:
New Museum of Contemporary Art, 6-8pm (note! I got this one from another website, it might need verification!)
Children's Museum of the Arts, 4-6pm
Fridays:
MOMA, 4: 30- 8: 15pm
Whitney, 6-9pm
Guggenheim, 5:45- 7:45pm (last ticket issued at 7:15)
Asia Society, 6-9pm
Bronx Museum of the Arts, All day!
International Center of Photography, 5-8pm
Saturdays:
Brooklyn Botanical Garden, 10am-noon
Jewish Museum, 11 am - 5: 45pm
Wave Hill, 9am- noon
Studio Museum in Harlem, First Sat of each month
what about the met you ask? sillies, it's ALWAYS "pay as you wish"! ;)
DISCLAIMER: clearly I do not advocate putting these fine fine institutions, least of all the Met, out of business by failing to pay admissions. For the time being while we are broke 20somethings though, I think we could all use a little relief. Those of you who will actually be making big bucks some day can pay back for the rest of us when you wish you were young and eating only mac and cheese again!
Toga Toga Toga
Hey! I just got wind of a new event from the Met College Group, a free toga party at the Met to celebrate the opening of their new greek and roman galleries. I went to their Paris event last semester and it was a lot of fun, crowded but enjoyable with free drinks and desserts (no wine though) and best of all it's free!
To RSVP email metcollegegroup@metmuseum.org
and to check out more about the event go to
Met College Group
oh! And all you need is a student id so grad students or those with no expiration date need not fear (plus, they never even checked my id last time) hurrah!
To RSVP email metcollegegroup@metmuseum.org
and to check out more about the event go to
Met College Group
oh! And all you need is a student id so grad students or those with no expiration date need not fear (plus, they never even checked my id last time) hurrah!
Broadway Baby
I'll be writing more about specific shows later on in the posts but for a general overview I wanted to link you all to this site:
Talkin Broadway!
It basically has everything you need to know about getting cheap/ rush/ lottery/ standing room tickets for all broadway and many off broadway shows. Just click on the box under the show and they'll list whether they do rush/ student rush etc and what you need to bring. Call other off broadway theaters to see if they do rush, most do!
Hopefully after seeing shows I will eventually write back with tips about what time you need to get there/ how the seats were etc but here's what I know so far:
Student Rush Shows:
Spring Awakening: I would recommend getting there around 2 hours before the box office opens, seats vary but they save student seats for every show. Ask to sit on the audience L side if you are going to get restricted view because you won't miss as much as if you were sitting on the other side.
Frost/ Nixon: I saw this while it was in previews and LOVED IT. We got to the box office about 20 minutes before it opened and were the first ones in line (this may change though as the show actually get reviewed). Tickets were in the front row!
Lottery shows:
Avenue Q: front row seats!
Wicked: front row seats!
Hairspray: I was seated waaayyyyyy at the back,
Putnam: We were off to the side in a theater in the round but still saw mostly everything!
Talkin Broadway!
It basically has everything you need to know about getting cheap/ rush/ lottery/ standing room tickets for all broadway and many off broadway shows. Just click on the box under the show and they'll list whether they do rush/ student rush etc and what you need to bring. Call other off broadway theaters to see if they do rush, most do!
Hopefully after seeing shows I will eventually write back with tips about what time you need to get there/ how the seats were etc but here's what I know so far:
Student Rush Shows:
Spring Awakening: I would recommend getting there around 2 hours before the box office opens, seats vary but they save student seats for every show. Ask to sit on the audience L side if you are going to get restricted view because you won't miss as much as if you were sitting on the other side.
Frost/ Nixon: I saw this while it was in previews and LOVED IT. We got to the box office about 20 minutes before it opened and were the first ones in line (this may change though as the show actually get reviewed). Tickets were in the front row!
Lottery shows:
Avenue Q: front row seats!
Wicked: front row seats!
Hairspray: I was seated waaayyyyyy at the back,
Putnam: We were off to the side in a theater in the round but still saw mostly everything!
Free Hairs
Everyone hates finding a new place to get their haircut or styled or now even colored, but I have found the place for free and actually quite good services!
Bumble and Bumble, which many of you may know from their product line, runs an education workshop on 13th street by 9th ave and everything they offer is free for models. You have to go to
Bumble and Bumble!
and sign up to come to model call, where they assess you and, if you fit with what they are looking for an are willing to go for one of their styles, they'll sign you up! There are only a few hairstyle options for each gender but I've actually found them to be flexible within what they will do with your hair (in terms of length, bangs, layers, etc).
For styling you ALSO get 10 dollars to use towards any product and if you go enough times within 6 months they give you gift certificates to Itunes etc.
PLUS, all the stylists have to have had at least 2 years of professional experience in order to come to the school, I've found all my stylists to be very competant and have been pleased with all my cuts.
Hurrah!
Bumble and Bumble, which many of you may know from their product line, runs an education workshop on 13th street by 9th ave and everything they offer is free for models. You have to go to
Bumble and Bumble!
and sign up to come to model call, where they assess you and, if you fit with what they are looking for an are willing to go for one of their styles, they'll sign you up! There are only a few hairstyle options for each gender but I've actually found them to be flexible within what they will do with your hair (in terms of length, bangs, layers, etc).
For styling you ALSO get 10 dollars to use towards any product and if you go enough times within 6 months they give you gift certificates to Itunes etc.
PLUS, all the stylists have to have had at least 2 years of professional experience in order to come to the school, I've found all my stylists to be very competant and have been pleased with all my cuts.
Hurrah!
Welcome
Hello fun and wonderful internet world.
I wanted to start this blog to keep track of all the wonderful, free and cheap, fun things to do in this city. As the summer approaches there is so much going on that it's hard to keep track of all the ways to entertain yourself so I decided to make this handy-dandy internet guide for my friends and virtual loved ones. I hope to expand upon it greatly, especially during finals, with pictures and guides to free and cheap services, entertainment, food and oppurtunities in the city of ours. Read, add love and enjoy.
Beep,
Lauren Burke
I wanted to start this blog to keep track of all the wonderful, free and cheap, fun things to do in this city. As the summer approaches there is so much going on that it's hard to keep track of all the ways to entertain yourself so I decided to make this handy-dandy internet guide for my friends and virtual loved ones. I hope to expand upon it greatly, especially during finals, with pictures and guides to free and cheap services, entertainment, food and oppurtunities in the city of ours. Read, add love and enjoy.
Beep,
Lauren Burke
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