DUMBO Neighborhood Guide

By Go City Expert

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Dumbo, Brooklyn[/caption] Brooklyn has been on the radar as a popular destination for a few years now. There are many fascinating neighborhoods with a rich history, full of cultural institutions, historical sights and national landmarks. One of the most picturesque Brooklyn neighborhoods is Dumbo. Dumbo stands for Down Under Manhattan Bridge Overpass, clearly indicating the neighborhood's location. Dumbo is nestled between the two bridges, Brooklyn and Manhattan Bridge, and offers amazing views of both. Dumbo is easily accessible by subway, but perhaps the best way to get there is to walk or bike across the Brooklyn Bridge, or the slightly less scenic Manhattan Bridge. If you plan to take public transportation, take the F train to York Street. For walking, the best option is the Brooklyn Bridge from Chinatown, offering amazing views and a truly unforgettable experience. For biking, the Manhattan Bridge is optimal, because of its spacious bike lane and no crowds. Dumbo is known for its cobble-stoned streets, industrial, brick buildings, factories and warehouses, and outrageously expensive apartments. Nestled between the rich brick-red buildings, you can find many artisanal coffee shops, restaurants, boutiques and art galleries.

Food

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A pie from Julianas[/caption] Two of the most famous pizza shops in Brooklyn are located in Dumbo, very close to one another. One of them is Juliana's (pictured), a classic New York Style pizza joint, attracting customers from all over the world. The pizza is so good, usually there's a line outside. The second one is Grimaldi's, now a chain operating in multiple locations in the city, serving delicious brick-oven pizza right under the Brooklyn Bridge. To satisfy your sweet tooth, stop by Jacques Torres Chocolate, a sought-after artisanal chocolate and truffle shop.

Art

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Robert Swain: Color as Color at Minus Space[/caption] Dumbo is home to one of the most vibrant art scenes in New York City. The neighborhood's spacious, lofty buildings make for perfect gallery space and the local crowd of hip, wealthy millennials creates the ideal clientele for new, provocative art. Art in Dumbo has put together the whole portfolio of local art galleries in an easy-to-navigate website. Head to Minus Space to admire minimalist contemporary art in a spacious gallery, or the Klompching Gallery for contemporary photography.

Sites and Photo Ops

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Classic shot of Empire State Building peeking through Manhattan Bridge on Washington Street[/caption] Perhaps the biggest reason for tourists to flock over to Dumbo are the other-worldly views from its waterfront. Nestled between the two bridges, Dumbo offers incredible photo-ops and views of these engineering marvels, as well as the lower Manhattan skyline. Perhaps the most classic view is that of the Empire State Building peeking from under the Manhattan Bridge, from Washington Street and Water Street. If you prefer the Brooklyn Bridge, the opportunities for amazing shots are plentiful in this area, as soon as you descend the bridge, or are done with your pizza at Juliana's.

Activities

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Janes Carousel | Photo via NYCGO[/caption] A trip to Dumbo would not be complete without riding the famous Jane's Carousel. Built in 1922 and originally located in Ohio, this carousel brings to life the classic feel of vintage amusement parks, right on the Brooklyn waterfront. Extending past the boundary of Dumbo is Brooklyn Bridge Park, a public park built right on the Brooklyn Piers, offering many opportunities for leisure, with the most magnificent views of Brooklyn Bridge and Downtown Manhattan. Walking through Brooklyn Bridge Park is an experience treasured by locals and visitors alike, with plenty of activities for both adults and children. If you wish to explore Dumbo with the help of knowledgeable tour guides, you can take the Brooklyn Bridge and Dumbo walking tour (free with the New York Pass), or take Circle Line Cruises' Hello Brooklyn Tour, which focuses on Dumbo and the Brooklyn waterfront. Alternatively, you can rent bikes or take a bike tour with one of our bike partners and explore the area on two wheels.

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10 Things About NYC Comic Con 2019

It wasn't too long ago that geeks were considered outcasts. Shunned by society for their supposed wizard robes, d20 dice and extensive knowledge of J.R.R Tolkein's novels. But today, geek is chic. Monstrosities like The Big Bang Theory, juggernaut franchises like the Marvel Cinematic Universe and the rise of gaming into the everyday have catapulted geeks into the stratosphere. And now the hub of geek, Comic Con, has become the go-to place to meet your heroes. If you fancy attending, or already have your ticket clenched in your sweaty fist, you need to know what to expect. So here are 10 things you need to know about NYC Comic Con 2019. When is it? NYC Comic Con runs from October 3 - 6, in the year of our lord Kevin Feige, 2019. And where do I go to get my fill? Well, my dear friend, NYC Comic Con 2019 takes place at the Javits Convention Center at 429 11th Avenue. Onward! Why should I go? If, like us, you're any kind of modern media consumer, you've surely dipped your toe in the comic-adjacent pool. There are countless comic-related films, TV shows, and video games around these days. Some might be pretty obvious, the aforementioned Marvel movies. You know, the ones that dominate the multiplex every year for the past decade. Others, like the Kingsman series or Amazon's TV series The Boys, are also adaptations of graphic novels. So the better question is, why wouldn't you go? Here's a snapshot of the best things on offer this year. Dr Who? Well for starters, all you Whovians will not want to miss the talk with Christopher Eccelston. For all non-Whovians, he was the first Doctor in the modern reimagining of Doctor Who. He'll obviously be talking about that, but also expect him to speak on his roles in Marvel's Thor: The Dark World, and TV's underappreciated The Leftovers. He might even discuss his role in 'the most early-2000's film imaginable', Gone in 60 Seconds. Don't hold your breath though. He probably doesn't want to remember it. 'Catch a Conversation' with Christopher Eccleston from 11am til 12pm on 3 October. He's a wizard, Hagrid! Right after, you get the chance to sit down with the cast and creatives behind stage behemoth Harry Potter and the Cursed Child. They'll be talking about how they brought the magic of the books and films to the stage. Fans will see never before seen photos and videos from behind the scenes. If you've not yet caught the show, or want to know more about it, check it out. Behind Harry Potter and the Cursed Child takes place between 1-2pm on 3 October. Mr J?! If you're a fan of DC's Harley Quinn, Comic Con 2019 has you covered. All-day on Friday 4 October, head to Hudson Yards Loft for an interactive exhibit about the past and present of one of DC's most enigmatic villains. Explore her first appearance in Detective Comics, through to her recent movie appearances, including some sneak peeks at the upcoming Birds of Prey. They've got props, costumes, and sketches for all to see, as you don't even need a ticket or pass to attend. So really, you have zero excuses. "How you doing, ya old pirate?" That's right, Lando Calrissian himself Billy Dee Williams will be at New York Comic Con this year. From 11am - 12pm on Friday, expect a full recounting of his time playing the galaxy's favourite rogue. That includes his return to the franchise in The Rise Of Skywalker, so any Star Wars fans chomping at the bit for new info before December dare not miss out. Now you've got a Hulk For all fans of video games and Marvel, NYC Comic Con 2019 has just what you need to scratch both itches. Come check out the Marvel Games Panel between 3 - 4pm on Friday to hear from the minds behind the upcoming Iron Man VR and Avengers games. You're sure to catch some never-before-seen gameplay of both. And we're also promised some unannounced exclusive reveals and surprises too. "Make it so." Jean Luc is back, baby. It's been nearly 20 years since we last saw Captain Picard on the big screen (and even longer since we saw him every week on TV). But he's back, thanks to the upcoming Star Trek: Picard CBS series. So of course, none other than the man himself Sir Patrick Stewart will be in attendance at NYC Comic Con 2019. Enjoy a sit down with the cast and creative crew behind the anticipated new show on Saturday 4 October between 1:45 and 2:30pm. Did I mention that Sir Patrick Stewart will be there? We are not worthy. You go, girls And round off the weekend with a look at how women have shaped the world of comics with the Women of Marvel panel on Sunday 5 October from 12:15 - 1:45pm. Hear from the best talent in the industry, as they talk about their creations, what it's like in the industry, and what the future may hold. Now you're primed and ready for NYC Comic Con 2019. Let us know if you're going, and what you're looking forward to while you're there. And while you're there, why not check out a Marvel and DC Superheroes walking tour, or get a refresher on who won big at this year's Emmys?
Dom Bewley
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Oktoberfest NYC: Your Guide To The Night

Oktoberfest started back in 1810, when Bavarian Prince Ludwig married Princess Therese von Sachsen-Hildburghausen. Her name was so long that people despaired, drinking hideous amounts of beer. Not really. They were simply celebrating the wedding. Alongside the beer consumption, they also danced, ate traditional Bavarian cuisine, donned their best lederhosen, and danced around for 3 days. In the US, we celebrate from September through to October because October can be quite cold. And if your precious constitution can't take a bit of October chill, you can still get involved. And where better to spend Oktoberfest than NYC, the (at times) coldest city on Earth (at least it feels like it)? So now that you're caught up, you'll be wanting to know when and where you can party. Never fear, our guide to Oktoberfest NYC is just a scroll away. Eyes down, bottoms up, and make this Oktoberfest the best Oktoberfest you could possibly imagine. OktoberFest New York South Street And we start with, well, an entire, month-long festival dedicated to Oktoberfest. If you want an authentic Oktoberfest, definitely check out OktoberFest. Expect all of the traditional German beer your stomach can hold, authentic food (lots of sausage and pretzels, you know the drill), and masskrugstemmen: stein-holding contests, to the uninitiated. Alongside these, expect some very American games with a Bavarian twist. Volley pong, corn-in-the-hole, and ping pong are all there to be played. There's also music if the beer inclines you to strut your stuff. Best of all, entry is free. Not the beer, sadly. Standard steins should set you back about ten bucks. Not too bad for New York. Don't know what that says about our fair city, but you roll with the punches kiddo. Munich on the East River Zum Schneider New York's first original Bavarian Bierhaus welcomes you to a week of de-beer-auchery in the East Village. For the last few years they've been celebrating Oktoberfest in style. They erect a huge tent with original Bavarian furniture, an Oompah band stage, and even VIP seating if you want to feel extra special on the big day. There will be beer. Lots of beer. HB Traunstein Festbier and Andechs Festbier, both exclusive to Zum Schneider in New York, will of course be overflowing in Masskrugen (1 litre steins). But if for some reason you want to celebrate sans beer (Prince Ludwig will be spinning in his grave), they also have wines, ciders, and bottled water. Gross. Who celebrates such a beery time with water? Don't even think about it. Staten Island Oktoberfest Richmond Wanna drink copious amounts of beer while helping a good cause? Of course you do, sinner. Get some soulful brownie points at the Staten Island Oktoberfest, which supports the country's heroes. It's only ten bucks to get in, which also gets you a free drink. And feel free to buy as much food and drink while you're there, as all proceeds go to Veterans In Need. Staten Island Oktoberfest also styles itself as a family-friendly affair, so those of you with little munchkins will find lots to do. There's a bouncy house, rides, and other entertainment to keep them busy while you celebrate the day in a more over-21 way. Bohemian Beer Hall Oktoberfest Party and Scavenger Hunt Astoria If you want to add a little spice to your beer-drinking, head over to the legendary Bohemian Beer Hall for a different kind of Oktoberfest in NYC. With a good old fashioned scavenger hunt! Everyone's split into team of 3-5 people, and then you're off, solving clues and all the rest. After 45 minutes, you can get your precious beer, a bite to eat, and wait to see who won what. After the winners are announced, and you inevitably claim first prize, you can continue the merriment with live music and other assorted entertainment for the rest of the afternoon. Plus beer. Obviously, there will be more beer. Calm down, fiend. You'll get your beer. Bangtoberfest Williamsburg If you want to celebrate Oktoberfest in NYC a little less authentically, why not go to a dance party of the more modern variety? It starts at 9am, and the bar is free til 11am. So, get there early and get ready for a heavy one. Costumes are recommended. Take that how you will. And the even ends at a reasonable 4pm, so if you have work the next day you've got plenty of time to sleep it off. Or do a duvet day and stay in bed all day, feeling sorry for yourself. Flashbacks of your terrible dancing and wardrobe malfunctions might be more than enough to call in sick. And why not play some video games set in the Big Apple while you're recovering? Them's our picks for the best things to do for Oktoberfest in NYC. Any other events tickling your fancy, or did these pique your interest? Let us know below, and have a good one.
Dom Bewley
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The Empire State Building - Visitor Guide

You haven't seen New York until you've seen the Empire State Building. From dazzling observation deck views to the intriguing lobby and exhibits, here's all you need to know about visiting this stunning skyscraper.
Casey Makovich

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