New York City Things to Do Tips by bottleofdoom

The Halloween Parade! Parades and New Year's Eve Review

We just happened to be in NYC for Halloween, so we got dressed up and decided to watch the parade. Fortunately, it went right by our apartment so we didn't have to go far. The actual route was on 6th Ave. We were advised to get our spots early because the crowd usually gets to be about 8-10 people deep. So we were out on 6th Ave. by 5:00pm, an hour and a half before the start. It was fun hanging out with New Yorkers while waiting for the parade and Don learned how to say Houston St. New York style. (It's pronounced how-stin, not hu-ston). The parade itself was so cool. The costumes were incredible and we saw Elvira and Cyndi Lauper. Anyone can join the parade, but we didn't because I had on high heels.

Directions: 6th Avenue which turns into The Avenue of The Americas

The Cradle of Punk Rock

What trip to NYC would be complete without stopping at CBGB's? We stopped in during the day and found Hilly, the owner, doing paperwork in the front. He let Don walk in and touch the stage where Stiv Bators threw -up on. I've been here before when bands were playing and I wasn't impressed. It is a dive, but because of it's fame the drinks are way overpriced for the dirty atmosphere you must endure.

Address: 315 Bowery St.

Directions: In the Bowery

Staten Island Ferry Staten Island and Staten Island Ferry Review

After visiting Coney Island, we hopped back on the train and got off at the Whitehall St. stop because that's where the ferry terminal is. Once inside the terminal we determined that the ferry ride was free and waited to board the boat with alot of people who were just getting off work. Once we boarded we walked to the front and stood outside for the whole ride. We passed by The Statue of Liberty and some lady started singing "Amazing Grace" really loud and out of tune. Then she decides she wants to know everything about me after she compliments a ring I'm wearing. She asked me questions the whole ride to Staten Island, which is about 25 minutes. When we finally got to the island, we got off the boat & then boarded it again right away. The ride back to Manhattan was into the wind, so it was really cold standing outside on the deck. I whimped out and went inside. Fortunately, there wasn't any crazy ladies on the return trip. Manhattan looked really small and strange without The World Trade Center buildings.

Address: trains N, R, Q & W to Whitehall St.

Directions: Manhattan

Phone: 718-727-2508

Website: http://www.siferry.com

Me at Coney Island Coney Island Review

Coney Island Coney Island Review

Even though it was closed for the season it was still fun to check out all the old amusements. It was also great for some black & white photography.

Address: the last stop on the W, F or Q trains

Directions: South Brooklyn