2024 STUDY TOUR
PLaces
Pier 57
Pier 57, located on the Hudson River in Manhattan, is a historic pier transformed into a vibrant multi-use space. It features a rooftop park with stunning city and river views, food vendors, cultural spaces, and Google’s NYC offices. Originally built in the 1950s, Pier 57 has been revitalized as a hub for dining, entertainment, and innovation, blending its industrial past with modern amenities and sustainable design.
Little Island
Little Island is a unique public park on the Hudson River, located at Pier 55 in Manhattan. Built atop whimsical, tulip-shaped pillars, it offers lush green spaces, walking paths, and stunning views of the river and city skyline. Opened in 2021, the park features an amphitheater for live performances, gardens, and spaces for relaxation. Little Island is a peaceful, innovative urban oasis, blending nature, art, and recreation in a one-of-a-kind setting.
Buddakan
Buddakan is a chic, upscale Asian fusion restaurant located in Manhattan's Chelsea neighborhood. Known for its dramatic, opulent interior, featuring grand chandeliers and long communal tables, it offers a modern twist on traditional Chinese cuisine. Popular dishes include dim sum, Peking duck, and inventive cocktails. A favorite for special occasions and stylish dining, Buddakan blends bold flavors with a luxurious dining experience.
Backstage Tavern
Backstage Tavern is a cozy, theater-themed bar located near Times Square, offering a laid-back atmosphere just steps from Broadway. Popular with locals and theatergoers, it serves craft beers, cocktails, and pub-style food. The decor pays homage to NYC’s theater scene with playbills and stage props adorning the walls. It’s a great spot for pre- or post-show drinks, combining comfort with the vibrant spirit of the area.
Times Square
Times Square has evolved from a theater district in the early 20th century to a global hub of entertainment, tourism, and commerce. Once gritty in the 1970s, it was revitalized in the 1990s and further transformed by the recent initiatives to pedestrianize Broadway. This change created more public space, making it a vibrant, pedestrian-friendly area. Famous for its billboards, Broadway shows, and New Year's Eve events, Times Square symbolizes New York's energy and innovation.
Amazon Hank
The Amazon "Hank" Building, located in Manhattan's West Side near Hudson Yards, is a modern, high-tech office tower housing Amazon's NYC corporate offices. Known for its sleek architecture and innovative design, the building offers state-of-the-art workspaces, sustainability features, and panoramic views of the city. It reflects Amazon's commitment to expanding its presence in New York while fostering a cutting-edge work environment.
Bryant Park
Bryant Park is a beloved green space in Midtown Manhattan, offering a serene escape amid the city’s bustle. Known for its lush gardens, open lawn, and iconic landmarks like the New York Public Library, it hosts seasonal events, outdoor movie nights, ice skating, and a winter village. With ample seating, free Wi-Fi, and a lively ambiance, Bryant Park is a favorite spot for both relaxation and community activities year-round.
The Tippler
The Tippler is a trendy, underground cocktail bar located in Manhattan's Chelsea Market. Known for its rustic, speakeasy vibe with exposed brick, wooden beams, and eclectic decor, it offers craft cocktails, beers, and a curated selection of small bites. Popular with locals and visitors alike, The Tippler provides a lively, yet relaxed atmosphere, making it a great spot for after-work drinks or late-night gatherings.
Chelsea Market
Chelsea Market, located in Manhattan’s Chelsea neighborhood, is a renowned food hall, shopping mall, and office space. Housed in a former factory, it features a variety of gourmet eateries, artisanal shops, and local vendors. Popular with both locals and tourists, the market offers everything from fresh seafood to global cuisine. Its industrial-chic vibe and vibrant atmosphere make it a must-visit destination in New York City.
Meat Packing District
The Meatpacking District, located in Manhattan's west side, is a vibrant neighborhood known for its blend of history, fashion, art, and nightlife. Once home to meatpacking plants, the area has transformed into a hub for high-end boutiques, trendy restaurants, and cultural venues like the Whitney Museum. With its cobblestone streets and industrial charm, it remains a dynamic destination, attracting locals and tourists alike.
The High Line
The High Line is a 1.45-mile elevated park in Manhattan, built on a former railway. Stretching from the Meatpacking District to Hudson Yards, it blends native plants, urban design, and public art. Opened in 2009, it offers stunning views of the city and the Hudson River. The park has helped revitalize surrounding neighborhoods and serves as a popular destination for both locals and tourists, showcasing a unique mix of nature and culture.
The High Line Plinth
The High Line Plinth is an open-air art space located on the High Line at 30th Street. Dedicated to rotating large-scale, contemporary sculptures, it provides a platform for diverse, innovative works visible to both park visitors and street-level pedestrians. Opened in 2019, the Plinth showcases ambitious public art, fostering cultural dialogue and creativity within New York City’s iconic urban park setting.
Whitney Museum of American Art
The Whitney Museum of American Art, located in Manhattan’s Meatpacking District, is renowned for its vast collection of 20th and 21st-century American art. Designed by Renzo Piano, the building features spacious galleries, outdoor terraces, and striking views of the city and Hudson River. The museum highlights modern and contemporary works, with a focus on living artists, making it a dynamic cultural destination for art lovers and visitors.