After his guitar class, I would ride the 1 train down and meet him for a movie. That was years ago. Now I continue to come, sometimes alone. It’s one thing I enjoy doing by myself: going to the movies to see independent films that are oftentimes bizarre and somewhat depressing, but I like it all the same.

Strand is a castle of books. It claims 2.5 million new and used books, across 18 miles of shelves, cared for by 200 employees—so set aside a couple of hours. Plenty of art books and good prices. Get your healthy huff of that old book smell.

Joseph Leonard is one of my favorite cozy spots for brunch on the weekend. After a long week of work their avocado toast and a bloody mary hits the spot. Get there early or expect to wait, it's small and limited seating. Their sister restaurant Jeffreys Grocery across the street is also very good, but no expresso drinks which and I need my morning latte.

Moma is worth a visit, but for a more lively Art experience ánd for free, one should visit Chelsea. A colony of 400 Art Galleries, showing the best in contemporary art. Running straight through is the high line, a 1 mile long linear park, build on a former railroad-spur, worth the walk.

Prospect Park is a great place to have a water balloon fight, a picnic, a jog, and play with other people's dogs.