|
About New York City
Brooklyn
Breathe in, breathe out. Now curl up into your Downward-Facing Dog, and then lean down into your Cobra. Relax your body at Yoga in the Park, a free session led by instructors trained in Hatha, Vinyasa and other yoga styles at McCarren Park Pool. If you'd rather unwind in the midst of plant life, try Summer Thematic Trail: Reflections: Water in the Garden, an exploration of the ponds, waterfalls, pools and more of the Brooklyn Botanic Garden. Stick around at the garden for Storytelling Saturdays!, an afternoon of animal tall tales and nature lore--and you can even tell some stories of your own. If it's getting too hot outside, this weekend's the perfect time for you and your buds to go for a dip at Red Hook Pool before it closes September 1. And if you really want to impress your friends, treat them to a trip to the Chocolate Room for mouthwatering sweets that'll de-stress even the most tightly wound person of the group.
Bronx
And speaking of going for a dip, how about hitting the water, on the water? There are only a few days left to go for a swim in the Floating Pool, a snazzy public pool--on a barge. If you're looking for more ways to cool off, get your feet wet along the water on the Twin Island Exploration walk at Pelham Bay Park. If you'd rather stay indoors, enjoy the quiet as you ponder artwork at Live & Active, an exhibition at the Bronx River Art Center. And there's no better way to unwind than at a spa. Reserve a seaweed wrap or the Melting Muscle Massage at Canela Salon & Spa--you'll be so relaxed, they'll have to peel you off the table.
Manhattan
If you're planning on going for a walk to unwind, make it worthwhile. Help combat obesity and raise health awareness by participating in the Harlem: 5K Health Walk-a-Thon. While in Harlem, stick around to check out the Charlie Parker Jazz Festival. Or on Sunday you can head down to Pier 54 for the Blues BBQ Festival. Both festivals are free, which always takes a load off the mind. Even the City's streets will take a deep breath this Saturday, as there will be no cars allowed on roads from the Brooklyn Bridge to Central Park for Summer Streets. If you don't want to hit the streets and prefer people-watching from above, visit the Jeff Koons on the Roof exhibition at the Met. And beat the heat in the West Village with some tasty frozen yogurt from Eskimix. With all that walking, you deserve something yummy and cool.
Queens
Working with clay and making things with your hands is creative and soothing--we know you remember that scene from Ghost. Well, this one's not just for romantic couples, but for everyone: Saturday Sculpture Workshops is a fantastic activity for the family--both as a learning tool and a de-stresser. The free Hot Jazz/Cool Garden concert at the Louis Armstrong House Museum is another great option for chilling out; you'll be floating on air once those buttery, smooth sounds hit your ears. If you need a helping hand, treat your aching muscles to a massage at Spa Castle. And speaking of treats, a trip to Arepas Cafe for a dessert arepa and other authentic Venezuelan fare is an absolute must for Go Local fans with a sweet tooth.
Staten Island
They say dogs have a soothing effect on their owners--even lowering their blood pressure in some cases. Bring your heart rate down at the Agility Trail Dog Show and watch as dog handlers run their canine friends through impressive courses. And fishing, of course, is definitely a relaxing pastime; try fishing at the Ocean Breeze Fishing Pier to unwind with a close buddy or a loved one. If it's hot outside, head to Ralph's Italian Ices for water ice in refreshing flavors like watermelon, honeydew and strawberry margarita. And finally, sway to the tunes of Doug the DJ as the ocean breeze runs through your hair at The Beach Ball--it might be your last chance for a summer moon dance.
So grab your camera, check out some of the recommendations above, and we'll see you back here next week for some more exciting Go Local tips to make the most of the rest of your summer in NYC. And keep an eye out for our street teams every Thursday as they hand out Go Local fliers and other fun stuff at select locations all over the City
|
|
