Growing up I’d go to Staten Island a lot due to how close it was to my hometown. It wasn’t until I went back as an adult that I realized the uniqueness of this place, the outdated but also artistically beautiful aesthetic of the island, and appreciated it more. Plus the food (lots of diners and Italian food) is great and people watching is also pretty interesting.

Designed by Frederick Law Olmstead (of Central Park), Prospect Park is where I go running in better weather and find an endless supply of flotsam and jetsam for casting in projects all year round. Thickets of trees, hidden paths, and rolling hills are an endless source of inspiration.

There’s always something interesting on at The Met, and whether you’ve lived in New York all your life or are visiting for the very first time, you’re guaranteed to see something you haven’t before.

In a landscape of clubs that all play virtually the same EDM or hip hop music, The Pyramid Club is unique in its choice of soundtrack. Every Thursday, Friday, and Saturday, The Pyramid is open from 8pm-4am for an 80s Dance Party on their main floor that is totally punk rock. Downstairs on the lower level, they switch it up with themes ranging from “Back to the 90s” to “Let’s Dance David Bowie.” It’s also way kinder to your budget than most clubs—the drink specials are pretty much the best you can do in New York.

At first, this park felt too arranged and perfect for me but somehow it became my safe place. Going here always picks me up. The piers have a breathtaking view of the downtown Manhattan skyline, The Statue of Liberty, and The Brooklyn Bridge. Undeniably magical. The piers host picnic spots, soccer fields, roller skating, basketball, outdoor gyms, tennis walls, grills for barbeque, and more. I also appreciate how they designed the plantations with so much care and it’s just a lovely space overall for anyone to enjoy.