What’s Happening in NYC Right Now
New York City is always happening. Everywhere you look, there's something new (or renewed) to see, do, taste and experience—and an opportunity your groups won't want to miss.
LIVE THEATRE
The return of the illuminated lights of Broadway will beckon your groups to the Theatre District to choose from a dazzling array of dramas, musicals and other experiences. All of this season's new plays are by Black playwrights; Thoughts of a Colored Man is the first play in Broadway history to feature a Black writer, director and cast, as well as a predominantly Black producing team. Sondheim fans won't want to miss the critically acclaimed West End revival of Company. Shows returning this fall include perennial powerhouses Chicago, Hamilton, The Lion King and Wicked.
Off-Broadway's selection may be even more eclectic. Grab a block of tickets to the thrillingly percussive STOMP or Perfect Crime, NYC's longest-running non-musical play or Drunk Shakespeare, an aptly titled comedy of errors not to be missed.
CULTURAL VIBRANCY
The cultural contributions of NYC's diverse communities are undeniable. In Queens, groups will hear dozens of different languages and find just as many cuisines. Send them to Flushing for dumplings and Astoria for souvlaki.
Black culture shines citywide, and The Museum of Contemporary African Diasporan Art showcases groundbreaking exhibitions and workshops. The Apollo Theater and Black Spectrum Theatre host film screenings and live productions featuring Black creators.
Now a major motion picture, In The Heights brought the City's vibrant Latino culture into the spotlight, but there's more to explore. El Museo del Barrio's fine arts exhibitions, educational programming and cultural celebrations are a great entry point.
AN UNMATCHED DINING SCENE
In NYC, dining is an experience. The spacious Bronx Beer Hall is ideal for groups and sits amid the Bronx's Little Italy: Arthur Avenue. Outdoor dining is another great option for large parties—the setups at Boucherie West Village and Scarpetta are especially spectacular.
Clients can nourish body and soul at Melba's, a destination for comfort food. Pizza connoisseurs may never settle the "best slice" debate, but they will enjoy a scholarly discussion on the merits of Philomena's Pizza's Neapolitan-style vs. Amorina Cucina Rustica's Roman-style thin-crust pies.
24/7 SPORTS & ENTERTAINMENT
Groups visiting NYC this season will be met with a full calendar of events. Fashion week is back in full swing this September, as was The US Open. The TCS New York City Marathon also returns in November, though the plans for spectators are still in the works.
A SHOPPING CAPITAL
From the venerable department stores of Fifth Avenue to the indie shops hidden throughout the five boroughs, NYC has no shortage of style. Don't miss the Saks Fifth Avenue flagship, with a shoe floor so large it merits its own zip code (10022-SHOE). And only steps from the Staten Island Ferry, Empire Outlets features about 100 national retail brands.
There is no time like the present to promote travel to the five boroughs. For more information and ideas, visit New York City's official guide at NYCgo.com.
Written by Ali B. Zagat, Freelance Copywriter/Editor & Lifelong New Yorker.
Courtesy of NYC & Company.
Photo courtesy of Victor Llorente, courtesy of NYC & Co.
