Discover New York Part 2 {Fun}

So you made it through the epically long Part 1 {food} post and now you’re ready for some NYC Fun?

Fantastic!

As I mentioned before, two years in LA has hardly turned me into an Angeleno. I’m still an NY/East Coast girl at heart — and in style— and I still regularly daydream about life in The City. I’m trying to use Jedi mind tricks to get my husband to move us back… shhh. Also, while LA is totally not NYC, it does have its charm, and I’m doing my best to soak it all in. Plus, if you’ve ever met my sons, they are total SoCal surfer dudes.

But, if you’ve traveled to NYC for a little food and fun and you’ve already eaten through my previous post —and subsequently exploded— then next on your list will be the fun. And man is NYC fun. I feel like NYC is a font of the weirdest fun around. If you’re looking for something mainstream, that’s not what you’re going to get in this post. This is about those hidden gems. Only in NY. Note: Only one of these suggestions is kid friendly.

Discover: Fun

• Supercinema NYC– First off let me just say, if you haven’t seen Sleep No More at the McKittrick Hotel run, don’t walk, to see it now. This is a truly unique experience. Immersive theatre that is macabre, thrilling, and astonishingly done. The sets are fantastic. The characters are amazing. I have nothing but positive things to say about it. If you are lucky enough to be visiting during one of their Supercinema events, be prepared to experience a party like only NYC can throw. You come dressed as a character from whatever film they’ve selected for the event and you are immersed in that film, with a dance party, live performances and an open bar. Think role play to the next level. If you do both, you’d be overdressed for Sleep No More; but you won’t be alone. We went to the James Bond-themed party and it was a blast. Drink an espresso around 4-5pm, it’s going to be a long night.
  • What you should know: It’s in Chelsea, so plan accordingly. Also, If you go to see Sleep No More you may get separated from the group you come with (I did). Go with it. It’s NY. Also, be very very quiet, and do not take off your mask.
  • What you should try: There’s a rooftop restaurant. I didn’t eat there but it has great reviews.

• BBQ Films & House of Yes – So, I’ve lumped these together because the event I went to was a BBQ films event hosted at the House of Yes. Stay with me here.  BBQ Films is an event production company that creates immersive cinematic experiences in extraordinary locations. I went with the best friend to see Beetlejuice’s Wedding. It went a little something like this: dress up, pre-game with great drinks and a remarkable immersive set, a live auction of film-inspired art, enter the “chapel” and watch Beetlejuice with brief immersive aspects. For example, my best friend danced with the B-man himself and even lightly slapped him when he got fresh. This particular event was extra cool because a vow renewal and an actual wedding happened as part of the event. I bought the new couple a drink. It was seriously fun. The House of Yes is a great venue if you’re into going out to Brooklyn. They host hip dance party events regularly.
  • What you should know:
    You’ll need to check each individual site to find what you’re looking for
    BBQ films put on the immersive theater productions regularly, but the venues change. House of Yes is a great venue, but the themes vary wildly. Note: Not kid friendly. This is R-Rated entertainment, House of Yes is 21+ and they are really into the nude as a form of art. 😉
  • What to try: The House of Yes offers weekend brunch in a cute little outdoor patio.

• Jazz Age Lawn Party – In case you haven’t noticed, I’m kinda into the immersive experience. Or maybe I just like the fantastical nature of NYC. But either way, the Jazz age lawn party on Governor’s Island is pretty much iconic NYC in the summer. If you’re in town, you should grab your fringed dress, a headband and be sure to allow enough time to catch the ferry.

  

  • What you should know: This event is kid friendly and kids under 12 are free. I personally haven’t even gone with children, but guests are encouraged to bring blankets, lawn chairs, and be prepared for a fun summer day outdoors. For ease buy your food packages in advance.
  • What to try: La Mère Poulard Biscuits. So authentic, so delicious. Share with friends… or don’t.

If you’re from NYC and you have something to add, I’d love to hear from you. What’s your favorite off the beaten path thing to do in The City? Also, anyone want to see a post on kid-friendly things to do in NYC?

Xo, Kimberly Fe'Lix