It's sugar-coated shabbyness. I have been there in wintertime, all the rides and attractions were closed, but it´s still nice to have a walk on the beach or spot some funny looking storefronts and vintage-looking rollercosters. A perfect backdrop for photoshootings, a gem for friends of vintage typography. On 4th of july hot dog eating contests are held here (they actually do that!).

An hour away from NYC, there lies a summer camp on a pristine lake which was abandoned 15 years ago. I cant tell you where this is, but some research can lead you to the right place.

A well-curated vintage movie poster store. Smart and friendly staff.

An unchanged 1940s lounge known for its masterpiece Martinis and whimsical murals painted by the author of “Madeline,” Ludwig Bemelmans.

This is a great day-trip in the summer and early fall. The dunes make the beach feel secluded and the empty houses at the old army-base makes you feel like you’re in the middle of nowhere. Once we bathed there in late September during a combined picnic and photo shoot. It’s also a good little bike ride from the subway in Far Rockaway.