I love that there's a museum dedicated to American art, founded at a time when American artists were underappreciated. The exhibitions are curated with a broad but discerning eye, and the architecture is spectacular. In my experience it's typically much quieter than the obvious choices like the Met and the MoMA - although both are remarkable, there's something I love about the scale and style of the Whitney.

Just by sitting on a bench and drinking a coffee in the park, I can be entertained by so many performers and some crazy people.

The glorious orange gates in Central Park in 2005.

One of favorite museums in NYC.

Books are Magic is a great local spot for bookworms. The staff is warm and friendly with regular events happening monthly.