Remembering September 11 in NYC

By Go City Expert

No event in history has shaken up New York City like the terrorist attacks on the World Trade Center towers on September 11th, 2001. This year, 15 years after the event, we still remember even though we have rebuilt the city and the scars are no longer visible. Every year on September 11th, New York City commemorates the tragedy through powerful displays and moving tributes. Here are some that you can see this weekend, on the 15th Anniversary of 9/11. [spacer height="20px"] Tribute in Light [caption id="attachment_826" align="aligncenter" width="800"]

Tribute in Light from Brooklyn Bridge Park | Photo by Mark Lennihan/AP[/caption] [spacer height="20px"] Since 2002, 88 7000 Watt Xenon lights beam into the sky every year from Ground Zero of the World Trade Center Twin Towers, giving powerful tribute to the iconic towers on the New York City skyline. The Tribute was originally supposed to be temporary, but since 2013 has been run every year on September 11. The lights are lit at sunset on 9/11 and are turned off at sunrise on 9/12. The tribute is easily visible from pretty much anywhere in and around Manhattan. For the best views, try Brooklyn Bridge Park. [spacer height="20px"] National September 11th Memorial and Museum [caption id="attachment_828" align="aligncenter" width="801"]

9/11 Memorial Fountain at Night[/caption] [spacer height="20px"] [caption id="attachment_831" align="alignleft" width="302"]

‘Raising the Flag at Ground Zero’ by Thomas E. Franklin (Photo: 2001 The Record (Bergen Co. NJ)/Getty Images)[/caption] The National September 11 Memorial and Museum has recently acquired a long-lost flag pictured in a photo (left) of three firefighters lifting it from the rubble. You can now view the flag at the museum. Brand new art exhibit called Rendering the Unthinkable: Artists Respond to 9/11 opens on September 12th, showcasing responses and emotions tied to the even through artistic expression. On September 11, the 9/11 Museum and Memorial will be open only to the families of those affected and closed to the public, including New York Pass holders. The annual Commemoration Ceremony will live stream, starting at 8:46am. The Museum and Memorial reopens on September 12th. [spacer height="20px"] 9/11 Tribute Center [caption id="attachment_834" align="aligncenter" width="800"]

9/11 Tribute Center[/caption] [spacer height="20px"] The 9/11 Tribute Center is a small museum, founded and operated by the September 11th Families Association. It connects visitors with the authentic experiences through photos, video, audio recordings and artifacts. Leading up to the 15th anniversary, the Tribute Center will feature an increased number of their daily #My911Story presentations, which are designed to connect visitors with real survivors, their families and volunteers through their personal stories. The Tribute Center will be be open to the public after 1pm on September 11th. [spacer height="20px"] NYPD Parade [caption id="attachment_836" align="aligncenter" width="800"]

NYPD Officers at the 9/11 Memorial | Photo by Jin Lee[/caption] [spacer height="20px"] The New York City Police Department will hold a special parade on Friday, September 9th to commemorate the 122 officer lost during or after 9/11.

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Free Things to Do in New York City
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Free Things to Do in New York City

The City of Dreams - New York City - is the ultimate destination for workers, students, and all of the human folk across the globe. Living in New York can truly be a dream come true and teach you so much about life in a metropolis that it will always be an experience to remember. That being said, it's not the cheapest city in the world. And, with so many things to see in New York, such as museums, restaurants, parks, and iconic attractions, it's easy to lose track of time and expenses while you're there. Lucky for you, there are plenty of free things to do in New York City! Here is a list of the best things you can do for free in the Big Apple. Including: Central Park High Line Staten Island Ferry New York Public Library and more! Free Things to Do in New York City: Central Park Arguably the most famous park on the planet, Central Park needs no introduction. The backdrop for countless movies and TV shows, its 843 acres of verdant delight are enveloped by the towering concrete of Manhattan. For locals, it's a quick escape from the city's hustle and bustle. For you, it's an excellent excuse for some free fun! If you need to burn off some calories from all the food, get your walking boots on and go exploring! There are tons of lakes, ponds, and bridges to explore, as well as trees to sit beneath with a book or picnic. You could also visit the Conservatory Garden, a free garden full of seasonal flora, fountains, and sculptures. Need some holiday snaps? You'll find tons of Grammable things ripe for the taking. You can even hike in Central Park, thanks to the North Woods. This 40-acre stretch of land includes trails, waterfalls, and opportunities to see some birds. Nice. And, if you've got some spare cash, consider taking a guided bike tour of the park's best bits to see it all in one fell swoop. Free Things to Do in New York City: High Line The High Line is a park built on an old elevated train track. And, given it's the former New York Central Railroad track on the west side of Manhattan, it's guaranteed to offer some of the best views in the city. You can walk through the gardens, check out the contemporary art exhibits and performances, and savor delicious food with your friends and family while getting a unique perspective of the city. Free Things to Do in New York City: Staten Island Ferry Staten Island is where the famous rap ensemble Wu-Tang Clan first came together. So, if you're a fan and want to see where the members grew up, why not take the Staten Island Ferry? Not only will you receive a lesson in NY hip hop, but you'll pass the iconic Statue of Liberty, one of the most photographable monuments on the planet. You can board the ferry at the St. George Terminal on Staten Island or the Whitehall Terminal in Lower Manhattan. The ferry ride takes approximately 25 minutes and operates every day of the week. Free Things to Do in New York City: New York Public Library Bookworms and students rejoice! The New York Public Library is free to visit! And yes, most libraries do offer free entry. While the NYPL name encompasses over 90 libraries in the city's limits, we're talking about its most famous location - the Stephen A. Schwarzman Building. And oh my, is it grandiose. Each room and floor has unique architectural features and many activities besides reading. For students living or studying in NYC, it can get a little mundane to work and hit the books at home. That's why the Rose Reading Room is so popular. This peaceful and spacious area allows anyone to set up shop and study to their brain's content. Image courtesy of legacy1995/Shutterstock Free Things to Do in New York City: Museums No good city would be complete without a comprehensive list of museums, and New York is no different. And if you're looking for free things to do in the Big Apple, some of the best are free too! The American Museum of Natural History is arguably the best of its kind on the planet. Featuring 28 interconnected buildings housing 45 permanent exhibition halls, a planetarium, and a library, you can spend literal hours wandering around. And, with recent additions like the gargantuan Titanosaur to eye up, it'll delight both kids and grown-ups alike. If you're interested in more recent history, learn all about New York at the Museum of the City of New York. It's a mouthful, but there's no better place to chart the city's rise from settlement to metropolis. Free Things to Do in New York City: Times Square Times Square is one of the most iconic spots in New York; with bright lights, street art, and performances, you can take in the true blue New York energy at Times Square. It is also one of the best places to take pictures and indulge in some good food from across the globe. Or, if you want to upgrade your experience, take a guided tour and get the low down on the area's history. New York - a city so nice they named it twice; it is hands-down one of the best cities in the world, and getting the chance to live and study there is truly a dream come true. Make sure to make the most of your time and save some money by exploring these free things to do in New York City. If you are in New York for a longer stay, consider your accommodation options. AmberStudent is an online student accommodation that helps you secure a home of choice on your study abroad journey. This is a great choice for international student housing. And, if you're looking for things to do in New York City that aren't free, the New York Pass has got you covered. Featuring all of the city's best bits, including entry to the Empire State Building, the Statue of Liberty, and the Guggenheim, it's the best way to see it all for one low price!
Dom Bewley
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New York City Marathon

It's marathon time, baby. At least, if you like running. Yes, the New York City Marathon is upon us once more. Those of you lucky enough to have gotten a place are no doubt deep into training. It's too late to get involved now if you haven't, but there's always next year. Either way, you might be wanting to know a little more about the world's biggest marathon, so read on for an information overload on all things New York Marathon. History of the New York Marathon The New York Marathon started way back in 1970. And since it's humble beginning as a simple circuit around Central Park, the event has gone from strength to strength, attracting runners from all over the globe. 49 years later, and the race features well over 50,000 runners from 129 countries. Last year, they raised $40 million for charity. Good going, gang! Where is the New York Marathon? In New York City, da-doy. The course itself starts in Staten Island, before making its way through Brooklyn, Queens, Manhattan, the Bronx, and finally looping round and finishing in Manhattan. So if you're not interested in taking part in the marathon, but are interested in getting around New York, bear that in mind and make sure you check which routes are open. When is the New York Marathon? The first Sunday of November, which is November 3rd this year. Can I take part? Not this year, sorry bud. And getting in any year can be an achievement in itself. If you're looking to get involved next year, here are a few tips to follow. Entry takes place between January 14 through February 14 every year. So you'll need to apply then. Put it in your calendar. You'll also need a charity partner. Lots of people who regularly run the New York Marathon in aid of Team for Kids, and if you run and raise $2620 for them by October 2nd, you're guaranteed a spot! There are other charity sponsors chosen on the day the draw takes place on February 27th If you have over 15 New York Marathons under your belt, then congrats, you're guaranteed a place. Though, that doesn't exactly help newcomers. If you live abroad, and plan your trip to the marathon through the marathon's International Travel Partner, you may be able to book a spot. Bear in mind that the whole package doesn't come cheap. Luckily, it includes your flights, accommodation, and your entry fee! If you were admitted into this year's marathon but officially canceled, you can run the following year if you pay the entry fee again. If you're a really, really good runner with world renown, then you'll likely be accepted into the marathon if you contact the elite athlete coordinator. Why should I take part in the marathon? Well, not only do you get to raise money for some fantastic causes, but presumably, you wouldn't be here if you weren't somewhat running-inclined. So you'll know what to expect, and what you'll get out of it. The fame. The glory. And a huge binge on high carb food once the deed is done. Grab a burger at some of the best joints around, or if you're in a nostalgic mood, why not take a bike tour around Central Park, where the New York Marathon first took place? Taking part this year, or hoping to run in 2020? Let us know below!
Dom Bewley
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Village Halloween Parade

It's coming up to Halloween, the spookiest time of the year. Feel free to start dusting off your moth-eaten Ghostface outfit from college. Or maybe go as something different this year. Variety is the spice of life. And while you're at it, how about doing something more exciting this year? We will be. There's only so many times we can lose the Halloween costume competition. If you're in NYC, there's one event in particular that should be top of your list: the Village Halloween Parade. So play our little quiz below to discover your best costume, and read on champ. Here's everything you need to know about the Village Halloween Parade. What is the Village Halloween Parade? Let's start there, ay? It's the event in Greenwich Village. Every year, over 50,000 costumed revelers take to the streets. Including dancers, puppets, and 35 bands. However, to join them on their spooky procession, you'll need a costume. And no, a bit of blood on your mouth ain't gonna cut it. Go big or go home. Sorry. In this, it's 46th year, the theme of the Village Halloween Parade is 'Wild Thing'. So err, make of that what you will. You've got some room to get creative. Their suggestions? 'Mudman, GreenMan and Scarecrow'. I don't know what at least two of them are. Where is the Village Halloween Parade? It runs up 6th Avenue from Spring Street to 16th Street in Manhattan. How much more precise do you need? When is the Village Halloween Parade? Doy, it's October 31st. You know, Halloween. As for times, you're looking at around 7pm til 10:30pm. How do I get involved? As I mentioned before, you'll need a slick costume. Thankfully, as it's free to march in the parade, you can put any entrance fee money toward making it the slickest costume imaginable. Or simply above average, if you prefer. However, if you wanna feel special and march on the themed section, you can pick up a ticket for $35 a skip the line. Otherwise, simply be at 6th Avenue and Canal Street at 6:30, in full attire. Then stagger out into the night, you little ghoul. If you're running late, you can still join up with your fellow shamblers at either East Broome, Sullivan or Canal Street east of 6th Avenue. I hate dressing up but want to watch other people dress up. Alright, buzzkill. You can still have your fun. Get to 6th Avenue early, and get a sweet spot to watch the procession. It might even get you in the mood to get involved next year. And that's everything you need to know about the Village Halloween Parade. Let us know if you're going, and what you're dressing up as, below. And after the festivities are over, why not go grab a burger? Better yet, take the day off and get in a spooky mood with a Catacombs by Candlelight tour beneath the city.
Dom Bewley

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