Raphael's NYC
Published 05/17/2017
When you’ve got energy to burn, you’ll want to walk, run and play your way around the City. When you need a rest, a couple of converted transit sites help slow the pace.
1
Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum
1
Pier 86
The Intrepid—a real aircraft carrier—was transformed into a museum in 1982 and shows off history, science and military service. Exhibitions abound, including one that allows museumgoers to climb into a real Bell 47 helicopter and to simulate flying a supersonic place. Cool aircraft on display include the world’s fastest military jet, the space shuttle Enterprise and a guided missile submarine.
2
New York Transit Museum
2
99 Schermerhorn St.
This museum, housed in a 1936 subway station in Brooklyn, celebrates the engineering and expertise that went into constructing one of the world’s most complex transit systems. In addition to permanent fixtures like vintage subway cars and turnstiles, the museum presents exhibitions that highlight the history and future of mass transit.
3
Brooklyn Bridge
3
Tillary St. (at Adams St.)
The picture-postcard Brooklyn Bridge, constructed from limestone, granite and cement, is an instantly recognizable landmark. Cross the East River in either direction on the elevated pedestrian walkway, and enjoy the views coming into Lower Manhattan or Brooklyn Heights.
4
Brooklyn Bridge Park
4
334 Furman St.
This park lines the Brooklyn waterfront by Dumbo. The views of Manhattan are so grand, it feels as if you could reach out and touch the buildings. But there are plenty of activities to shake you from your reverie: kayaking, roller skating, movies, a pop-up summer pool and, at Pier 6, a playground with tall slides and water sprays.
5
Chelsea Piers
5
23rd St. & Hudson River Park
There’s no shortage of things to do at Chelsea Piers. This mega-complex offers the opportunity to learn, practice, play and compete in more than 25 sports. Enjoy the gymnastics center, batting cages, bowling alley, year-round outdoor driving range and adjacent skatepark.