If you are in need of a moment of solitude, this is the place. On my first visit I was in awe of how time seemed to stand still inside. It has now become a sanctuary from the city when I need the pace of life to slow down.

The smell when you step in says it all.

This botanical garden is massive. If you like to be surrounded by foliage, bring a picnic on a nice day.

I love playing on these red clay tennis courts. It feels like playing in Europe. I either drive my car and park right next to the courts or bike up River Side Park.

Dead Horse Bay is about an hour and a half from lower Manhattan by public transit, but well worth the journey. There is so much glass on the beach that the waves make a soft tinkling sound as they roll in. It’s a scavenger’s dream, and glass isn’t the only thing you’ll find here. There are still plenty of horse bones to remind you where the place gets its name.