July 31st: Pier 48

I've been to the Intrepid before and I've biked down the Hudson River Park Greenway from Harlem to the West Village, but I've never been to Pier 84 at West 44th St, especially when there are free Salsa lessons and live music. Again, the weather was perfect and this was how a summer evening at sunset should be spent. I learned how to properly turn (do it during the forward "123!") and got to hear and see lots of talented people- for free. Outside. What could be better than that?

July 30th: Prospect Park

It's embarrassing that I've lived in New York for 5 years and this is the first time I've been to Prospect Park. But, sad though that may be, I feel like I experienced it at its finest; I saw a Celebrate Brooklyn! performance featuring Dr. John at the Bandshell. It was perfect weather; the place was packed with people on blankets smoking, drinking, singing, dancing, lounging and just enjoying life. We had excellent (mini portioned...) food from The Farm on Adderly- that will definitely be an upcoming 'new place...' I wish I could eat my way through their menu the next few days and have them cater my life. We lucked out and were able to get right up close to the stage to really feel the voodoo vibes and see Dr. John's skulls, feathers and other charms around his neck and on the piano. I'll be back at Prospect Park (hopefully soon) to keep exploring and check it out in daylight. All in all it was the perfect way to spend a summer evening.

July 29th: Cabin Club

I've walked past this bar probably 20something times in the past year, but I've never been inside. Last night my boyfriend and I decided to check it out. We didn't actually stay for a drink, just did a lap and found an obscure flannel/lodgey/rustic/cozy bar that will be the perfect place to warm up with a glass of whiskey in January.