Get us in your inbox

Anna Rahmanan

Anna Rahmanan

Anna Rahmanan is the news editor at Time Out New York and she has been with Time Out since 2016.

Born and raised in Milano, Italy, Anna’s travel bug has taken her all around the world. Read more of her work at https://www.annabenyehuda.com. You can follow her on Twitter at @AnnaRahmanan or on Instagram at @AnnaBYRahmanan.

Articles (39)

The best things to do in NYC this weekend

The best things to do in NYC this weekend

Looking for the best things to do in NYC this weekend? Whether you’re the group planner searching for more things to do in NYC today, or you have no plans yet, here are some ideas to add to your list for this weekend: Summer Streets returns, New York Restaurant Week dining, Summer Fridays at MoMA PS1 (formerly Warm Up), the Coney Island Sand Sculpting Competition, The Little Shakespeare Festival, a silent disco uptown, outdoor movie screenings and more. All you have to do is scroll down to plan your weekend! RECOMMENDED: Full list of the best things to do in NYC

19 travel tips to follow while visiting Milan

19 travel tips to follow while visiting Milan

  Looking for travel tips for that romantic weekend in Milan? You’ve come to the right place. Italy’s style capital is a fantastic city, but the unwritten rules can often be confusing for first-time visitors. What better way to familiarise yourself with ordinary life in Milan than with your old friends at Time Out?It isn’t hard to enjoy the attractions, shopping and restaurants in Milan. Quite the opposite, in fact. There are lots of things to do here, but there is plenty bubbling underneath the surface. Why doesn’t anyone drink a cappuccino after midday? What is the tipping culture? What’s that about shoes? Read on, intrepid explorer.  

20 travel tips every first-time Rome visitor should follow

20 travel tips every first-time Rome visitor should follow

Rome is a big city. That feels superfluous, but it probably bears repeating, and visiting the Italian capital for the first time can be daunting. History is everywhere here, good food is even more ubiquitous, and avoiding the pitfalls of ignorance is sometimes the difference between a good time and a great one. Navigating Rome isn’t as simple as just turning up and hoping for the best. We’ve put together an expert selection of travel tips for first-time visitors to Rome, a guide covering everything from gelato etiquette to coffee times via vegetables, museums and public transport. Keep these in mind, and you’ll have a magnificent time.

35 best '90s TV shows and where to stream them now

35 best '90s TV shows and where to stream them now

The so-called ‘golden age of television’ is generally considered to have kicked off in the early 2000s, but the decade that preceded it is pretty darn shiny itself. The ’90s is where TV finally started to take some major risks, whether it was Jerry Seinfeld completely reinventing the sitcom, David Lynch actually getting his own space in primetime or HBO completely upping the game at the end of the decade with a crime drama for the ages. Even the more standard programming seemed to operate at a higher level than previous eras. If you happened to miss any of it the first time around, now’s a good time to catch up. The ’90s are all the rage again – both in fashion and music – and streaming platforms are packed with the decade’s best series. And even if you’ve seen everything, it’s also an ideal time for a rewatch. Sure, we’re no longer trapped inside to the degree we once were, but the world is still a crazy place, and few things are more comforting than binging the whole run of a classic show. Here are 35 can’t-miss suggestions, along with where to find them. Recommended: đŸ’» The 40 best Netflix original series to binge🎼 The best 50 ‘90s moviesđŸŽ¶ The 50 best ‘90s songs

How to eat like a local in Milan

How to eat like a local in Milan

Now, there is nothing wrong with a good hamburger and a mountain of fries, but you haven’t travelled to magnificent Milan for creature comforts, have you? There are masses of great things to do in Milan, but ‘eat as much local cuisine as you can find’ is right up there. The region has a gastronomical ethos that should be celebrated, and the best you can do is follow suit and eat like a local in Milan. What does that mean, exactly? Read on, and all will become clear. Certain dishes hold a special place in the heart of the Milanese, and we’ve brought them together to get that belly rumbling. Milan has plenty of traditional restaurants ready to dish it all up.   

10 restaurants Time Out New York editors can’t wait to visit this summer

10 restaurants Time Out New York editors can’t wait to visit this summer

Summer in NYC affords New Yorkers more opportunities to scout out some of our most favorite bars and restaurants, whether they're on rooftops, underground or by the water. Finally, traveling across the boroughs is a journey we're happy to take. And while NYC has amazing summer bars and restaurants with brand-new summer menus, the editors here at Time Out New York have their own agenda for dining and drinking this summer. Below, we've narrowed down 10 restaurants that we can't wait to visit this summer, from some of the trendiest and newest spots to older, more down-home eateries. RECOMMENDED: Here are 10 amazing bars to cool down at this summer

The best bike trails in the US

The best bike trails in the US

Pedaling around the city is the best way to get from point A to point B and while most cities in the US are increasing the amount of dedicated bike lanes, we still have a very long way to go. According to Forbes, San Francisco is the country's most cycle-friendly city, followed by Portland, while arguably the best bike trails in the US can be found dotted around California. But... it all depends on what kind of trail you're after: Something pleasant you pedal down while whistling Raindrops Keep Falling on My Head... or a more adrenaline-fueled adventure. Tackle one of the best (and most scenic) bike trails in the US From Wisconsin to Houston and Connecticut to Miami, the United States is packed with easy-to-medium-to-challenging trails, which boast plenty of greenery (and even some national forests) to admire along the way. Plus, these bike routes—from a 20-mile run in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains to a woodsy route in the Cascade Mountains—provide some serious payoff in the form of jaw-dropping views. Looking for more outdoor action? Check out our lists of the very best extreme outdoor adventures in America.    RECOMMENDED: The best hiking trails in the US

The best road trips in the US

The best road trips in the US

Here's the thing: The United States of America is unique in that the country can be explored so easily by car. It's the same size as Australia and it's the same size as Europe. And you'll find as many incredible locations and experiences in the USA as can be found on those other continents. And you'd be amazed at how much one country can change as you explore first one coast, then another and then head north or south on the best road trips in the US.  Road trips can be at the very heart of a holiday: Exploring new territory, taking in as much of the scenery as you can, cranking up the music to match the landscape and even fueling up on gas station snacks, should you be so inclined. Road trips have been immortalized in classic novels, essential movies and legendary songs. If you’re ready to hit the road, here are the best US road trips to take. The great thing about road trips is that they can be enjoyed at any time of year. Maybe you want to load up the car in the summer and build a trip around awesome beaches and stunning national parks, or perhaps you’re more of a winter person looking to hit the road and check out some of the country’s best skiing and snowboarding destinations.  Plan your ultimate automobile getaway by perusing our list of the very best U.S. road trips, which boast incredible views and amazing experiences. These road trips will cover a lot of ground, checking off boxes on your bucket list of adventures. So read on and hit the road like a pro. And as always

Funny things to ask Siri when you're bored

Funny things to ask Siri when you're bored

If an alien landed on a busy street in the middle of the day, it might think most humans have a best friend or personal assistant named Siri. That’s pretty much what she’s become to us iphone people. She can do anything from sending pics of our pets to giving us suggestions for where to get Italian food or where to go for a romantic vacation. If you didn’t know already, Siri can also be a source of entertainment. Ruffle her feathers and get a laugh with these funny things to ask Siri. We’re not sure how anyone figured out these funny things to ask Siri, but they sure do result in some funny answers. She has a sense of humor too. The best part about this quirky Siri feature is that she may give different answers to the same question, so you can ask again and again. Ask her on a date, she may tell you she doesn’t date humans. Or she may tell you she already has plans for the night. Ask her to tell you a joke or a story and she has a vault full. Pry into her personal life and you’ll be surprised by what she responds. You can even shout rude things at her to get a rise out of her, but be sure to apologize afterwards, she won’t hold a grudge.  The cool thing about asking Siri funny questions is that her responses are different almost every time, so she can offer hours of entertainment. Here’s a list of some of the best things to ask Siri: Siri, can you make me laugh?Siri, what’s the meaning of your name?Siri, what’s the best pick-up line?Siri, do you have a boyfriend?Siri, what’s

The 18 best bars in DC for all types of drinkers

The 18 best bars in DC for all types of drinkers

It should come as no surprise that the best bars in DC are as vibrant and diverse as the city itself. The city is overflowing with craft beer drinkers, wine bar lovers, and cocktail joint aficionados alike — from the capital’s diplomatic drinkers to collegiate kids in search of comradery, there’s room for all sorts of establishments and patrons.The fact that DC isn’t technically a state has its perks: locals enjoy certain alcohol-related loopholes that aren't found in other parts of the country. For example, local restaurants and bars can purchase their liquor stock directly from distilleries and breweries, cutting out the wholesale middleman that functions as a distributor in other states (it’s a win for mom-and-pop breweries, to say the least).So raise your old fashioned glass, clink your beer stein, or salute with your favorite vintage as you discover the best bars in DC. RECOMMENDED: the best restaurants in Washington, DC

Why immersive art experiences will be all over your feed even more in 2022

Why immersive art experiences will be all over your feed even more in 2022

The New Year usually brings new beginnings, but one thing will remain unchanged in 2022: the sheer volume of immersive art experiences that will drench our social media feeds on the daily. Although Vincent van Gogh was the focus of plenty of shows in 2021, immersive art lovers will be treated to a whole host of exhibitions dissecting Frida Kahlo, Claude Monet, Pablo Picasso and Gustav Klimt, among others, in the next few months. This comes as no surprise. According to the HERE Institute’s 2020 annual report into the immersive entertainment industry, the sector was valued at more than $61.8 billion (£45.7 billion) at the beginning of 2020 – up 19 percent from 2019’s $49.7 billion (£36.7 billion). One major player in the immersive business, Meow Wolf, the New Mexico-based arts and entertainment company behind immersive shows like Santa Fe’s House of Eternal Return and Las Vegas’s Omega Mart, made a $158 million (£116.8 million) investment earlier this year to expand its footprint across other American cities. MORE 2022 TRENDS:🚆 Why train travel is going to be on your 2022 bucket list🌳 From parklets to urban forests: how cities will get a whole lot greener in 2022🧙 Why 2022 is going to be the biggest ever year for fantasy on screen Clearly people love immersive art – but what makes it different and, perhaps, more attractive than more traditional exhibitions, with sculptures plonked in the middle of rooms and paintings stuck on walls? ‘There is a role for the traditional art

22 things we're looking forward to in 2022

22 things we're looking forward to in 2022

It's hard to believe we've almost come to the end of yet another year. While that's always a time to look back on the year that's passed—from the best new restaurants of 2021 to the Best of the City—it's also a time to look forward to January in NYC and beyond. Below, Time Out New York editors share the things they're most looking forward to in the year ahead from brand-new openings to returning faves.

Listings and reviews (46)

Morningside Lights

Morningside Lights

The 11th annual Morningside Lights lantern festival is happening on September 24 at 8pm, the first time the procession is being held in person since 2019. Woohoo! Hosted by the Arts Initiative and Miller Theatre at the Columbia University School of the Arts, this year's event is themed The Reimagined Monument, which is actually the name of a work on display: a moving sculpture garden composed of over 40 community-built lanterns. As usual, participants of the Upper West Side event will get to create their own lanterns and float them during the main event. You can also attend free lantern building workshops from September 17 through the 23.

Astroland Park 60th Anniversary Exhibit

Astroland Park 60th Anniversary Exhibit

Did you know that Coney Island was once home to a popular space-themed attraction with a giant rocket dubbed Astroland Park? This year actually marks the 60th anniversary of Astroland Park’s 1962 opening (the attraction closed due to financial reasons back in 2008) and, to mark the occasion, the Coney Island History Project is debuting a new exhibit by Deno’s Wonder Wheel Park exploring the park’s and object’s history. The free exhibit consists of informational panels that the non-profit organization has installed all throughout Deno’s Wonder Wheel Park in an effort to educate visitors on the subject. Among the facts you'll learn when exploring: although it debuted on Coney Island in the early 1960s, Astroland Park’s rocket moved around a lot and was even installed on the roof of the then-iconic, now-late restaurant Gregory & Paul’s on the boardwalk. The rocket was eventually donated to the city but, unfortunately, was left unattended and damaged throughout the years.  In 2014, Deno’s Wonder Wheel Park and the Coney Island History Project were able to rescue the rocket and move it back to Coney Island right by the famous Wonder Wheel. The exhibit is on view now through October 30 during park hours (Noon-10pm on weekdays and noon-11:30pm on weekends through Labor Day).

Rise Up NYC

Rise Up NYC

All five boroughs will play host to a new free concert series dubbed Rise Up NYC scheduled to take over the town through September 12. Announced by Mayor Eric Adams last week, the shows aim at encouraging New Yorkers to enjoy what the city has to offer and reconnect with all the cultural pursuits that render it unique, even after the plagues of the COVID-19 pandemic.  "We are inviting all New Yorkers to come together to celebrate culture, music, and unity as New York City rebounds from the pandemic," said the politician in an official statement about the project. "Music and the arts were a lifeline for us all during the last two years, and I am here to say that New York City supports its local artists and communities. We are going to hit the right notes and turn the dial up to 11 this summer. We invite all New Yorkers to join us for world-class entertainment in the city that never sleeps." Already in full swing, the free series has tapped the likes of Mr. Vegas and Funk Flex to perform.  Below is the full schedule of events, which can also be found here.  Roy Wilkins Park, QueensMerrick Boulevard and Baisley Boulevard Saturday, August 13 Sunday, August 14 St. Nicholas Park, Manhattan135th Street and St. Nicholas Avenue Saturday, August 20 Sunday, August 21 Midland Beach Parking Lot 8, Staten IslandFather Capodanno Boulevard and Hunter Avenue Thursday, September 1 Orchard Beach, BronxOne Orchard Beach Road Thursday, September 8 Times Square, ManhattanBroadway Between 4

Dining in the Dark

Dining in the Dark

One of the most exciting culinary events of the season is returning near New York from September 16 through October 30: Dining in the Dark, a 90-minute experience that asks visitors to forget all about the traditional way of eating. During the pitch-black event, participants will be blindfolded while eating their dinner.  "You may wonder what the benefits are, but the absence of distractions promotes the idea that eating in the dark heightens diner's senses making for a more pleasurable experience," reads the official description of the event. "The focus is instead on taste, smell, mouthfeel and sound, as well as promoting the art of conversation. Diners will enter a warmly lit room, and will be accompanied by waiters and seated before being blindfolded and plunged into total darkness to enjoy this unique culinary experience." Make sure to pre-book your session, which includes the choice of two available main dishes (meat or vegetarian) and the chance to order some drinks before entering the secluded area. The menu is secret but you can let organizers know about your dietary requirements and allergies right after you purchase your tickets right here.

Shrek Rave 2

Shrek Rave 2

Earlier this month, the Brooklyn Monarch in East Williamsburg hosted a rave inspired by and celebrating Shrek, the 2001 film starring Mike Myers as the now-iconic green ogre. The rave was an utter success, with folks who didn't know about it still bemoaning their own absence from the party. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Webster Hall (@websterhall) Alas, a new Shrek rave is in the works, this one taking over Webster Hall on September 23. Put it in your calendar! Other than it being a Shrek-themed event, we don't have much information about it just yet but, if the first iteration of the happening is of any indication, New Yorkers are in for loads of fun peppered by top-notch drinks and the sort of '90s music that will make you the good kind of nostalgic.

Immersive Gamebox

Immersive Gamebox

Gaming company Immersive Gamebox has just partnered with Netflix to launch a full-scale, interactive version of Squid Game that New Yorkers can play beginning September 21. Specifically, the company has opened its first venue in New York (the 13th across the United States and Europe) at 242 Broome Street between Ludlow and Essex Streets, outfitting the space with a multitude of different games for all ages (think a life-size Angry Birds, for example). The company relies on its proprietary motion-sensing technology and touch screens to create all games, none of which require the use of headsets. The Squid Game offering is set to debut within the venue this fall.  According to an official press release, "groups of two to six players will navigate challenges inspired by the series, including Red Light Green Light and the 'Squid Game' itself, among others."  Think of the destination as a happy marriage between the various immersive experiences that have taken over the city in recent years and the escape rooms that some argue actually portended the trend. 

Museum Day

Museum Day

The 18th annual Museum Day, as designated by Smithsonian magazine, is officially taking place on September 17, when museums and other sorts of cultural destinations all around the country will allow visitors in for free. You'll need a branded ticket to gain access to each venue and you can download that right here. Participating destinations in the New York area include the Hudson River Maritime Museum in Kingston, the National Museum of Racing and Hall of Fame in Saratoga Springs, the World Awareness Children’s Museum in Glens Falls, the Hudson River Museum in Yonkers, the Poster House in Manhattan, the Intrepid Sea, Air and Space Museum in Manhattan as well as the Bartow-Pell Mansion Museum in the Bronx. "Museum Day goes beyond getting visitors through museum doors—it acts as a springboard to empower and help advance the hopes and ambitions of the public, particularly school-aged children and those in underrepresented communities," reads an official press release about the day. "It represents a national commitment to access, equity and inclusion." This year's theme, the American experience, particularly draws on those exact subjects, simultaneously exploring them through the arts and the sciences.

Library Love: Five Borough Scavenger Hunt

Library Love: Five Borough Scavenger Hunt

Here’s a new way to celebrate the city’s public libraries: Open House New York has organized a massive, city-wide scavenger hunt meant to deepen citizens’ knowledge of the cultural institutions that call NYC home. You can compete as an individual or a team. Either way, you have to register for the event right here (note: folks with a library card can participate for free but they still need to register).  On August 6 at 10am, those who signed up for the hunt will receive over 60 clues via email that hint at key sites across all five boroughs. You’ll have to decipher each tip and start racing across the city snapping photos confirming the completion of a variety of tasks. At the end of the day, organizers will tally up points and announce the winner by the next morning. It honestly sounds like guaranteed fun.

106.7 LITE FM’s Broadway in Bryant Park

106.7 LITE FM’s Broadway in Bryant Park

Every Thursday in August, New Yorkers will get to catch a free Broadway performance in Bryant Park—courtesy of 106.7 LITE FM. The much-anticipated annual event is the ideal lunch-time destination as each performance kicks off at 12:30pm and wraps up by 1:30pm. Keep in mind that seating on the lawn is on a first-come, first-served basis. Now in its 22nd season, the event is usually stacked with acts from award winning productions. This year's lineup is as follows: August 4, 2022106.7 LITE FM Host: DelilahPre-show: STOMP!Disney on BroadwayAladdinThe Lion King August 11, 2022106.7 LITE FM Host: Cubby & ChristinePre-show: Kimberley AkimboChicagoDear Evan HansenHadestownPhantom of the Opera  August 18, 2022106.7 LITE FM Host: Helen LittlePre-show: 1776Come From AwayFunny GirlMr. Saturday NightWicked August 25, 2022106.7 LITE FM Host: Rich KaminskiPre-show: Special Performance by Taiwan Tourism BureauA Strange LoopBeetlejuiceMoulin Rouge! The MusicalSix

Chelsea Gallery Walk

Chelsea Gallery Walk

If you can't ever get to a gallery before usual closing time (mostly, 6pm), you're in luck: the annual Chelsea Gallery Walk is happening this week, when venues in the neighborhood stay open late and allow visitors to browse through the works on display for free. This Wednesday night from 6pm through 8pm, the Art Dealers Association of America is hosting the event alongside 22 participating art galleries, including Kasmin, Yossi Milo Gallery, Cheim & Read and Jack Shainman Gallery.  The one-night-only event also will also feature special programming. At Nara Roesler, for example, guests will also get to participate in a book party for Abraham Palatnik's new monograph, Enchantment/Experimentation. Other galleries will host receptions with refreshments as well. It will be a nice night out, whether you are an astute art fan or a more amateur observer. Find the walk map for the self-guided tour below: Photograph: Courtesy of Art Dealers Association of America

Marvel | Kith Spider-Man pop-up

Marvel | Kith Spider-Man pop-up

Deep into Queens, at 221-50 Horace Harding Expy, curious explorers will be amazed to spot a pretty large wall plastered with Spider-Man comic book pages. Just around the corner, the building's entrance will lead into an awesome, deli-like pop-up commemorating the superhero's 60th anniversary.  The destination, a joint effort between Marvel and retail brand Kith, will be open this weekend only and indirectly functions as a celebration of the neighborhood as well. After all, Queens is both Peter Parker's hometown and Kith founder Ronnie Fieg's. Inside the space, visitors will get to shop from a new collaborative collection of adults and kids apparel and accessories that showcase the evolution of the iconic character. Also on premise: a custom Spider-Man comic book featuring an original storyline and artwork that includes a cameo by Fieg himself, plus a curated selection of vintage Spider-Man memorabilia up for sale and other non-superhero-inspired convenience store staples (milk! Detergent! Coffee!).  Yes, Kith Treats will also be available for purchase (you're going to want to try the Spider-Bite!).

Kaizen

Kaizen

Kaizen, a new hand roll joint in Flushing, says it's a destination for hand rolls, but what Kaizen actually offers are pieces of (delicious) sushi served on crunchy seaweed. With an on-point interior and a skilled staff that patiently navigates the menu alongside each curious diner that wanders inside, Kaizen boasts an extraordinarily tasty oyster mushroom hand roll with garlic butter and a "secret" XO sauce to a simple-yet-delightful dish of salmon and tomato purĂ©e, diners will get to order sets of hand rolls presented in eye-pleasing wooden, "sectioned" serving dishes. An omakase option will soon launch as well. Standout orders in the short-but-strong list of appetizers include the akami avocado salad and the Thai-style yellowtail crudo, all served under the purview of chef Ben Chan of Sushi Seki and O Ya fame.  Overall, Kaizen certainly does pack a punch, a happy medium between traditional Japanese spots like Manhattan’s Sushi Yasuda and more "commercial" destinations like nearby Tara, in Little Neck. But if the inventively appetizing fare is what should initially draw you to Kaizen, the interior decor's piece de resistance, an actual cherry blossom tree, is what will have you linger way past your meal is finished, trying to gaze at the genetic makeup of the giant piece of nature. Set upright in the middle of the sushi bar, which happens to be the best seat in the house, the cherry blossom tree is made of a petrified trunk installed right into the ground with pink fabric

News (2202)

These photos of ‘splooting’ squirrels in NYC will make you smile

These photos of ‘splooting’ squirrels in NYC will make you smile

If you've taken a walk across one of NYC's parks in the past weeks, you might have noticed squirrels sprawled out on the ground, quite literally lying face down with their limbs outstretched and looking pretty odd. Worry not, though! According to the New York City Department of Parks and Recreation, the cute little animals are trying to keep cool by "splooting." That's a word we won't forget.  RECOMMENDED: Video: Watch dolphins play with kayakers in the Hudson River Sometimes referred to as heat dumping, explains the agency, splooting involves a stretched-out position on a cool surface that helps reduce body heat. Basically, it’s exactly what we feel like doing when we return to our apartment after a day spent walking around the blistering hot city on an average day in the summer. Squirrels of New York, we feel you. The New York City Department of Parks and Recreation introduced the general masses to the funny term in a tweet. In response, followers delighted in showing off their own pets (not squirrels!) splooting at home or out in the wild. Clearly, stretching out on the floor is an activity enjoyed by all sorts of animals: have you ever seen a dog in the summer? If you do see a squirrel splooting, let it be. It is just relaxing and trying to survive the season's high temperatures. Below, scroll through a series of photos of the animals in action. They're going to all put a smile on your face, we promise. View this post on Instagram A post shared by nyc squi

New Yorkers react to yesterday's insane airport delays

New Yorkers react to yesterday's insane airport delays

Citing "unexpected" staff unavailability that forced a reduction in "the flow of aircraft around New York City," the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) warned travelers about major delays at all three major New York City-area airports at the beginning of the week.  Although the message was appreciated, it did not do much in the way of easing customers' frustration throughout the various travel hubs. Delays were up to two hours, after all. According to NBC New York, the shortage specifically related to air-traffic controllers, with too many people in important positions calling out sick unexpectedly. "The sources insist that it was not an organized movement and that it was not necessarily all COVID-related," reports the outlet. Needless to say, travel delays have a way of throwing people off and inciting feelings of anxiety and anger. New Yorkers especially wear their emotions on their sleeves, so it's no surprise that plenty of them took to social media to lash out at the travel industry and express their frustration about the pretty crazy delays—although the majority of them have been solved by now. Here is a collection of some of the very best reactions we've come across since yesterday: "Due to "UNEXPECTED" staff availability tonight, the FAA must reduce the flow of aircraft"-- absolutely shameless — @pmurany (@PMurany) August 16, 2022 "Hey Bob, quit mopping the floor, get over here and take a seat, we just promoted you" https://t.co/9zodUhULgO — The fed up

Here's what you need to know for the August 23 primary election in NY

Here's what you need to know for the August 23 primary election in NY

Election Day in New York will kick off on Tuesday, August 23 at 6am and the polls will stay open through 9pm that night, when New Yorkers will get to vote for members of the House of Representatives and the Senate. This year's contest is a bit unusual. In fact, according to the New York Times, "earlier this year, the state's highest courts ruled that district maps created by Democrats were unconstitutional and ordered them to be redrawn." As a result, although folks voted for a winning Governor Hochul to stay in power, the primaries relating to Congress and the State Senate were pushed back two months. The primaries were effectively split into two. Below, find everything you should know about next week's primary elections. When and where are the polls open? In New York City, polls will be open from 6am-9pm. Your polling place should be within a few blocks of your residence, but it may not be the same spot you voted in the last election. Confirm the location of your polling place at Vote.nyc. What documents do I need to vote? You don't need an ID to vote in New York. Instead, you'll give your name and address to a poll worker, and sign to confirm your identity. Pens are also provided. Masks are required at all polling sites, so come prepared. If you encounter any issues or problems at your polling site, call New York’s election protection hotline: 866-390-2992. For this particular race, only registered party members are allowed to vote. Can I switch political parties on Prima

The 9/11 Tribute Museum downtown is closing

The 9/11 Tribute Museum downtown is closing

All brick-and-mortar closings tug at the heartstrings, but this one's particularly sad: NBC New York reports that the 9/11 Tribute Museum at 92 Greenwich Street by Rector Street in Tribeca will be closing for good tomorrow. The museum, which opened back in 2006, cited pandemic-related financial difficulties and a sharp drop in visitors as the main reasons behind the shuttering. “Financial hardships including lost revenue caused by the pandemic prevents us from generating sufficient funding to continue to operate the physical museum,” said Jennifer Adams, the co-founder and CEO of the destination, in an official statement. Specifically, annual admissions dropped from 150,000 in 2019 to a mere 26,000 last year. The important venue was started by a number of New York City Fire Department (FDNY) widows in connection to the September 11th Families' Association, a nonprofit organization. Seeking to "tell the stories of those they lost in the September 11 attacks," the folks behind the cultural institution have also announced that they will be moving their endeavor online, hoping to offer "interactive engagement [options], including video stories of those impacted." Until now, in addition to physical exhibits, the venue offered tours of the rebuilt World Trade Center led by survivors, first responders and relatives of those who passed on that tragic day. Visitors have also been able to hear first-hand accounts from volunteers. The physical collection that was on display at the museu

Broadway Week is back with amazing two-for-one ticket deals this fall

Broadway Week is back with amazing two-for-one ticket deals this fall

We're delighted to report that after a really long three-year hiatus, Broadway Week is back with two-for-one tickets this fall.  The program has been running twice a year since it first debuted over a decade ago but, given the COVID-19 pandemic and the extensive shutdown of the district, the fall iteration of the project had been put on hold for the past three years.  As usual, folks will get to enjoy awesome two-for-one ticket deals for over a week. This year's Broadway week is scheduled to run from September 6 through 25. Tickets are already available for purchase right here. "This fall marks the one-year anniversary of Broadway’s reopening and since then we have welcomed nearly 9.3 million theatergoers to New York City," said Charlotte St. Martin, the president of the Broadway League, in an official statement. "The return of fall NYC Broadway Week is a fantastic way for locals and visitors to experience thrilling live theater in one of the world’s most exciting cities. The 21 Broadway shows included in this year’s 2-for-1 ticket offer represent some of the most iconic, diverse and innovative productions to hit the stage. The variety offered is sure to please audiences ranging from the frequent to the first-time guest." Before snagging up passes, you'll likely want to browse through our list of best Broadway shows right now. Also keep in mind that all tickets are subject to availability and that blackout dates may apply.  Below find a list of this year's participating sho

See inside NYC’s gorgeous new Art Deco-inspired variety theater

See inside NYC’s gorgeous new Art Deco-inspired variety theater

It’s not every day that New York City gets a new theater, so the mere opening of Midnight Theatre on September 21, a new 160-seat destination in the heart of Manhattan West, is reason enough to celebrate. Add to it the fact that the venue is also home to a bar, a top-notch restaurant and a cafe, and you’ve got yourself a new cultural must-visit. The brainchild of creative director Warren Adcock (also a member of the team that created “The Magician” at the NoMad Hotel), chef/restaurateur Josh Cohen of Lilia fame and designer Cycle Projects, Midnight Theatre seeks to offer an intimate experience showcasing a variety of different acts—from magicians to musical and comedy shows. Expect a variety theater in the truest sense of the term.  Photograph: Jason Greenspan “We’re inspired by the entertainment staples in New York but want to bring everything down to you and another 159 people,” Adcock tells us. “It’s a variety theater so we do a lot of different stuff. We’re not one thing, we’re a variety of things.” To deliver the very best, the partners are also banking on state-of-the-art technology: each wall will become a canvas thanks to 270-degree projection mapping. “That obviously lends itself to immersive storytelling,” explains Adcock. Mastercard, which will also function as the space’s official sponsorship partner, will integrate multi-sensory experiences throughout the venue, including a Pride-themed cocktail tasting and a five-course off-menu dinner, and “priceless” frag

This secret bookstore in Greenpoint is hidden behind a bodega

This secret bookstore in Greenpoint is hidden behind a bodega

The only thing we love more than a bookstore is one that's hidden behind a very New York-like facade, making the space that much more magical. A new such destination has just opened in Greenpoint: Burnt Books is a vintage bookstore set up inside a bodega called Green Discount Corp at 1014 Manhattan Avenue by Green Street. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Burnt Books (@burnt_books_) To find it, head to the address, look for the graffiti-like sign that reads "BURNT BOOKS" on the sidewalk by the bodega's entrance, walk to the back and get ready to purchase some vintage paperbacks. Although finding Burnt Books on Google is nearly impossible (hence us giving you the exact address and directions!), the store's Instagram account makes the endeavor that much more accessible.  The account is filled with pictures of the sorts of titles you'll find on premise, including Ed Noon's The Living Bomb, Frank Kane's Due or Die, Kate Wilhelm's Where Late the Sweet Birds Sang and Norbert Wiener's Cybernetics. Coffee table books, works of nonfiction and travel guides make appearances as well.  View this post on Instagram A post shared by Burnt Books (@burnt_books_) As reported by Eater, the shop was set up by one Jason Mojica, the owner of nearby comic book destination Hey Kids! Comics. According to the outlet, Mojica initially sought to open a standalone used book shop but "couldn't afford two rents" so he instead partnered with the bodega's ow

More than two dozen free library boxes have been installed in NYC community gardens

More than two dozen free library boxes have been installed in NYC community gardens

Little Free Library is a nonprofit organization whose mission is to expand book access and build community by installing actual library boxes across the world, where people can take a title and leave one for others to take. This summer, the nonprofit The New York Restoration Project (NYRP), which seeks to improve the quality of our public spaces, installed 28 of these book-sharing destinations within New York’s community gardens. Each box contains at least 10 books donated by the New York Public Library's Tompkins Square branch and others that are part of Scholastic's Read in Color Book Bundle. The latter collection includes works about marginalized communities, touching upon themes like social justice and racism.  "We are so pleased to now have Little Free Libraries in half our gardens throughout New York City. NYRP's mission is to create equitable access to quality green spaces, and we are excited to now incorporate these book-sharing boxes to serve this mission," Lynn B. Kelly, executive director of NYRP, said. "Knowledge is power, and Little Free Libraries will allow New Yorkers from all walks of life to share resources and stories. We are constantly reimagining the potential uses of our NYRP parks and gardens and are now proud to not only provide a place to enjoy a book, but to get one, too!" Find the newly installed Little Free Libraries across these 28 locations: Manhattan: Union Settlement Maggie's Garden – 564 West 149th Street El Barrio Community Garden – 415 East

Grab a foot-long churro at this new dessert shop in Clinton Hill

Grab a foot-long churro at this new dessert shop in Clinton Hill

We'll be honest: when we hear about plant-based desserts, we're a bit wary about how delicious they will actually be. Alas, a new shop in Clinton Hill called Dreamery sounds exactly like, well, a dream: serving house-made vegan treats beginning August 27, the spot offers a delightful menu of eclectic items... including a foot-long churro that we'll likely eat on the weekly. Photograph: Oliver Fiegel Photograph: Oliver Fiegel Co-founded by Elle Barton and Natalie Marie Gehrels, Dreamery is not just a dessert shop but a fun space to hang out in with your family. Expect art works depicting clouds all over the bright space, which also features neon lights, wooden signage and a ton of specialty merchandise like toys, stickers, party accessories and even a rotating selection of books. A dream indeed! But back to that churro: the visually striking item shares menu space with a number of plant-based seasonal ice cream flavors like burnt plum sesame, Early Grey lavender, beet, banana, chai, cherry pie and our favorite, smoked peach. "We taste with our eyes, then with our mouths," said Barton in an official statement about the roster of ice cream flavors on offer. "Each flavor was inspired by color then a fond childhood memory. I remember eating peach ice cream as a kid by a campfire, this colorful bit of nostalgia became our smokey peach flavor.” Photograph: Oliver Fiegel Other outstanding selections include sour gummies by the pound and a chocolate soft serve with roasted pista

A massive weed museum is opening in Soho this fall

A massive weed museum is opening in Soho this fall

We're surprised it took this long: a museum about all things weed is officially in the works, courtesy of former Las Vegas club owner Robert Frey, who just signed a 10-year lease at 427 Broadway by Howard Street in SoHo, according to The Real Deal. The outlet reports that the 30,000-square-foot space will be called The House of Cannabis (or THCNYC, for short) and it will hopefully be up and running by this fall. RECOMMENDED:  Would-be visitors will be treated to three floors of immersive gallery space featuring rotating exhibits about the history of weed, also featuring high-tech design elements like LED light shows, potential 4D aspects and more. The top floor will function as an event space where lectures about cannabis programs and, specifically, social justice, will be held. Some might remember The Stone Age pop-up last year that had a similar mission. "We have so many citizens that don’t belong in jail [because of marijuana], we'd love to tell their story," Frey said to The Real Deal. As of now, cannabis photographer Chris Romaine, scent maker Victorine Deych and light designer Carlos Hano have already been tapped to assist in the creation of the space and specific exhibits. To be clear: The House of Cannabis will not be selling or offering any sort of drugs on premises, despite the recent legalization of weed in NYC. Think of it as a historical exploration of cannabis. "If you touch the plant, that limits what you're doing," Frey said to the outlet about his decision t

The Knitting Factory in Brooklyn is closing at the end of the month

The Knitting Factory in Brooklyn is closing at the end of the month

It's a sad day across New York's music scene: the iconic Knitting Factory has just announced its final show ever, scheduled to take place on August 21. Hannibal Buress, Quelle Chris, Roofeeo, Marilee and "some surprises" will take on the stage one last time at the end of the month. Tickets for the show are available right here.  "To our BK friends and family—we are saddened to announce that our time in Williamsburg is coming to an end. We will be closing our doors for the last time on August 21st," reads an official statement from June by the staff. "The past 13 years have been incredible, and we could not be more proud of our stay on Metropolitan Ave. We are going to miss the live music and comedy that graced the stage more than we can say. But it is time for the Knit to (once again) reinvent itself. Thank you for welcoming us into your community way back in September 2009 (Les Savy Fav was our first show!) and for your unwavering support over the years, especially the last 24 months. But we couldn't have done any of it without our wildly talented crew, both past and present. Thanks for sticking it out with us." Set up as an art gallery with a performance space and a cafe, the original Knitting Factory was founded by one Michael Dorf and Louis Spitzer at 47 East Houston Street by Mulberry Street back in 1987. A few years later, the business moved to a much larger space at 74 Leonard Street by Church Street. Following changes in management, the Tribeca location closed in 2009

See inside the most expensive hotel in NYC

See inside the most expensive hotel in NYC

There's no shortage of fancy hotels in New York but a new one has rapidly become the most sought-after reservation in town. Boasting a total of 83 suites, Aman New York is a new hotel that just opened within the Crown Building at 730 Fifth Avenue by 57th Street. There's a lot to dissect here, starting from the price of each room—around $4,200 per night when looking at the most economical options.  The amenities will make your head spin, including a wraparound terrace on the 14th floor offering year-round dining opportunities, two signature restaurants (Italian dining concept Arva and Japanese eatery Nama) and a jazz club hosting daily live performances.  The Aman spa is deserving of its very own essay: sprawled over three floors, the destination features an indoor 20-meter pool, ten treatment rooms, fitness facilities and two Spa Houses. According to an official press release, "these private [areas] comprise a spacious double treatment room, sauna and steam rooms complemented by hot and cold plunge pools and an outdoor terrace with cabana, daybed and fireplace." You'll basically never want to leave.  In addition to the hotel suites, those who wish (and have endless amounts of money) will also be able to buy 22 Aman-branded private residences on the top floors of the building. You can just imagine how much those will cost you. This is actually the third Aman hotel to open in the United States, the other two being in Wyoming and Utah. Expect Aman Miami Beach to open in 2024 and