We will explore different neighborhoods and research the different cultures that have influenced the evolution of specific areas. We will research the history and explore the culture to understand how the different neighborhoods have evolved.
DAY 2- Our group toured the Tenement Museum that housed immigrant families in the 1800's. The apartments and furnishings were tiny for families of 4-6. Living together in small spaces, neighbors from different cultures helped each other to survive. We rode the subway everywhere and learned how to navigate the underground maze. Next we landed in DUMBO and enjoyed pizza at Grimaldi's under the Brooklyn Bridge. Despite the rainy weather, we took the mile long walk over the bridge with hazy views of the East River and Manhattan. After some time to refresh and dry out at the hotel, we went out to dinner at a restaurant and were surprised with singing waiters and waitresses belting out tunes from Broadway musicals.
DAY 3- Our third day in the city was rainy unfortunately, but we made the most of it! We started off the day at the Museum of Natural History and explored all the different fossils, animal recreations and dinosaurs. Across the street was Central Park so we walked through some pretty sections with rock cliffs , flowers blooming and the lake. For lunch we hit Chelsea Market to eat some amazing food and shop. To end the day, we went to the Broadway musical Kimberly Akimo. It was the story of a teenage girl who had a rare condition that caused her to age four times her real age; it explored the hardships that come with life, family, identity and high school. We saw some amazing young actors and the woman who played Kimberly won a Tony award for her portrayal.
DAY 4- During our final day in the city we took the ferry to the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. We learned Ellis Island was America's largest and most active immigration station and processed over 12 million immigrants between 1892-1924. The afternoon consisted of venturing around SoHo and we partook in a lot of retail therapy; what else is New York good for? We are sad to leave the city behind, however we leave with greater insight into the foundation and history behind the development of New York City.
DAY 5- Traveling home and our group started with New York bagels and coffee. Unfortunately, the bus broke down and a flat tire delayed our journey. Fortunately, another Greyhound came to take our group to South Station! It was a long travel day but we made it!
Day 1
As we arrived in New York City, we ventured to our hotel in the middle of Times Square! After settling in we walked over to Hell’s Kitchen to enjoy dinner. We ended up at Carmine’s which challenged us with their humongous dishes. We stuffed ourselves with three servings of pasta, garlic bread, and a salad, so we decided to walk off dinner and prevent ourselves from going into a food coma. Before winding down, we spent the evening exploring the shops and nightlife in Times Square. We ended the night with a stronger bond as a group than we did coming into this trip!