Parks in New York City are the best, whoever decided to create Central Park in the middle of the city, I take my hat off to you. But Central Park at times can be busy, touristy, loud and the good sitting spots are always taken.

18 blocks south holds a smaller but infinitely less noisy Bryant Park, a block long hiatus smack dab in between Times Square and Grand Central Station.

Bryant Park is a great spot for a date, playing Pétanque (a weird game almost like bowling that old but adorable men play), reading a book, people watching, or even enjoying a ride on Le Carrousel.

There are also various little shops, selling anything from wine to shoes and hot chocolate. Wishcraft is the hut of choice for food, with sandwiches, soups and brownies. There is also a fancy restaurant, the Bryant Park Grill on the Southwest Porch, at the end of the park right behind the New York Public Library.

In the winter the open grass area doubles as an ice skating rink, unique to all others in NYC, as it is free and there is no time limit to being on the ice, so you can skate for 5 minutes, during your lunch hour or 4 hours without being kicked off, unlike Rockefeller Center. With a massive yet proportional Christmas tree holding down the Southwest Porch, lights cascade around the park, in the regular trees, the shops, the rink, and the seasonal restaurant Celsius. They are a package deal.

In the warmer weather the super green grass supports outdoor movies, concert events, juggling, ping pong, and even beginner language classes!

At any given time of the year, Bryant Park is a great destination for newcomers, visitors or even the experienced New Yorker. Download your events calendar here!

By: Claire Anderson

hello@psofnyc.com