Better Together Here: Exploring NYC

By Ashley and Devin Stagg from Better Together Here

Make the most of your time exploring New York City with local insights on activities worth doing, restaurants and bars you have to try, & NYC travel tips! 🗽

Every 2 weeks, we dive into a new top... more

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FAQs about Better Together Here: Exploring NYC:

How many episodes does Better Together Here: Exploring NYC have?

The podcast currently has 33 episodes available.

Better Together Here: Exploring NYC episodes:

September 17, 2024NYC Taxi Tips & Rideshare Hacks + Mistakes to Avoid
An iconic piece of traveling in New York City is hailing a classic yellow taxi cab.
While sometimes it can be cheaper to take Lyft/Uber, hailing a taxi can be cheaper and easier if you get one right away.
Main Tip: Know the Cross Streets, Not Just an Address
The most important note for getting in a cab is to know the cross streets of your destination. If you’re going to a major landmark (Empire State Building, the Met, etc.) you may be fine just saying the name of the place, but for anything else, you will want the cross streets.
Here are some more general tips for taxis in New York City:
If the light on top of the cab is on, the cab is available)

If coming out of a busy area like a museum or Broadway show, consider going an avenue over where you’ll be competing with fewer people for a ride Walk against traffic, even if away from your destination, to get “above” other people trying to hail cabs if you don’t want to walk to a new avenue

Visibility is everything when trying to hail a cab. If the cab can’t see you, he won’t stop. If you put yourself in a position where the cab can see you ahead of time and has enough space to pull over and pick you up, that increases your odds of getting a ride quickly. The easier you make it on the driver, the easier it will be to get rides.

The vast majority of taxis take card or cash, and most take apply pay, etc. but it’s always good to ask as you get in.

Make sure the cab driver starts the meter when you get in. There will always be an initial charge when the ride starts so don’t worry about that. Just make sure you see a meter that’s in use. If the meter is not being used, it’s not a legal taxi. They should also have their taxi license number visible to you as a passenger.

Go to main avenues (6th Ave, Madison Ave, etc.) and go on the side of the street where the taxi can stop, you’re less likely to get as many cabs passing on cross streets (48th St, etc.)
This Episode's You'll Have to Check It Out Segment - Jasper's Taphouse & Kitchen
Jasper's is a phenomenal bar and restaurant in Hell's Kitchen with an extensive happy hour, friendly staff, and delicious bar-style entrees and appetizers.
They also have beer towers! Roughly 88oz of beer for only $30 during happy hour!
Plus, the music isn't too loud and there's sports on the TVs. What more can you ask for?
Check out Jasper's Taphouse & Kitchen here.
Rideshare Hacks
Prices for Lyft/Uber fluctuate highly depending on the weather (rain drives up prices), time of day (rush hour drives up prices), and your location.
Here are some general tips for using Lyft/Uber in NYC:
It’s a good idea to check both apps against each other to compare prices. Your experience will vary, but one is almost always a significant amount cheaper than the other.
Always confirm the license plate of the car you’re getting into, again it’s about safety
It’s often best to set your pickup location at a main avenue if possible, but it’s not completely necessary
Wait & save can save you 5-15%, so use that if you’re flexible on getting to your next destination. Most of the time, the wait ends up being slightly shorter than what the app will say
If you plan on using rideshare apps frequently while in New York City, it can be worth signing up for Lyft Pink or Uber One. The monthly cost can be offset with 3-5 rides.
We’ve loved our experience with Lyft Pink and have found it to be cheaper than Uber in most cases. Lyft Pink is $9.99/month or $99/year. So if you plan on using Lyft more than 3-4 times on your trip, the cost is likely worth it.
Lyft Pink also includes extra perks like:
Free Priority Pickup upgrades Member-exclusive pricing

12 free bike or scooter unlocks a year

Relaxed ride cancellations and lost & found fees Free Grubhub+ for a year
Never used Lyft before? Sign up via our referral link to get ride credits.

Show Notes:
Taxi Medallion Deep Dive
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21min
September 03, 20247 Delicious Vegetarian Restaurants in NYC + 2 Bonus Ideas
Whether you're a vegetarian or trying to consume less meat, we've got 7 delicious vegetarian restaurants in NYC!
Plus, we'll give two bonus ideas for finding the best vegetarian options in the city.
Beyond Sushi

The Butcher's Daughter

Farmer's Friend

Spicy Moon

Mamoun's Falafel

Empanada Mama

Westville
1- Beyond Sushi - Vegan Sushi NYC
Beyond Sushi is both Vegan and Certified Kosher, offering a variety of Sushi rolls in Midtown Manhattan. All ingredients are 100% plant-based.
2- The Butcher's Daughter Review
100% vegetarian menu with plenty of vegan and gluten-free options.
The Butcher's Daughter is a popular, delicious Vegetarian option with locations in Los Angeles and New York City.
3- Friend of a Farmer Review
Loved the avocado tartare, charred eggplant dip, and the vegan pot pie.
4- Spicy Moon
Cozy spot with electic decor serving plant based Chinese dishes. One review said "This place might turn me into a vegan".
Bengal Tiger - This Episode's You'll Have to Check It Out Segment
Bengal Tiger has phenomenal appetizers, entrees, and drink options at a fair price. It's conveniently located in Midtown West, close to the MoMA and Broadway shows!
They were located on 56th near 6th Avenue, closer to the Museum of Modern Art, but recently moved a few blocks west on 56th between Broadway and 8th Ave.
5- Mamoun's Falafel Review
Their original Greenwich Village spot is a true hole in the wall, but the food and service are top-notch. It may be the best falafel we've ever personally tried!
6- Empanada Mama
30+ empanada options with dozens of vegetarian options in a bustling spot; what else needs to be said?
7- Westville NYC Review
Westville has multiple locations in NYC, including the UWS, Hell's Kitchen, Williamsburg, Dumbo, and more.
They offer a wide variety of vegetable plates and locally-sourced dishes.

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21min
August 20, 20245 Bars for Cheap Drinks in Manhattan NYC
Finding cheap drinks in NYC, amidst the swath of $18 Gin & Tonics, is vital for any traveler or local.
These spots not only have cheap beers and specials but also plenty of fun vibes to go around.
McSorley's ($8 for 2 beers, works out to be about 1.5 normal-sized beers, located in the East Village)

Rudy's ($3 house drafts and free hot dogs in Hell's Kitchen)

Jake's Dilemma (at any time, you can get a $5 Miller Light or Seltzer. Specials every day. Most of the time, you can get any draft beer for $5. Gin Mill, 3 Sheets, Hair of the Dog, Down the Hatch, and Stumble Inn are "sister" bars to Jake's Dilemma.)

Clockwork Bar ($6 beer and shot combo, $7 well drinks, authentic dive bar in Chinatown area with plenty of graffiti and stickers)

Jimmy's Corner (drinks as cheap as $3, boxing memorabilia, dive bar in Times Square)
This Episode's You'll Have to Check It Out - Amor Y Amargo
While not cheap ($18 cocktails), you get a unique, well-crafted, thoughtful cocktail. All the drinks here include Amaros and, in most instances, unique bitters.
The decor and bar itself are beautiful. We loved all the drinks we tried here, and you will, too!
Plus, they have dozens of unique bitters for purchase.

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14min
August 06, 2024Best Things to Do in NYC – Weekend Trip
To keep it simple, here are 7 categories of things to do that will help make your decisions easier.
Here are our local recommendations for the best things to do for your weekend trip to NYC.
We recommend doing at least one thing from each main category or more. If there’s a category you’re stoked on, do more in that category.
1- Go to a Broadway Show
Get cheap Broadway tickets through a ticketing app (TodayTix or Ticketmaster) or TKTS Booth
The TKTS Booth can take 30-120 minutes in line.
Go to the Lincoln Center location for shorter wait times.
If you can avoid weekends, do it.
If you want to see two shows, you can skip the line by showing your ticket from the previous day at the booth
2- Go to an Observation Deck
The Edge is probably our favorite
One World Trade (see Downtown)
Top of the Rock
3- Go to Chelsea
Little Island
Chelsea Market
Pier 57
Highline
4- Go to a Museum
Museum of Modern Art
American Museum of Natural History
The Metropolitan Museum of Art aka MET
9/11 Museum (see Downtown)
5- Go Shopping
5th Ave
Soho
Rockefeller Center
Hudson Yards
Columbus Circle
6- Go Downtown
See the One World Trade Center (and/or do the Observation Deck)
See the Statue of Liberty from a distance (here) or go to the Statue & Ellis Island, but it takes a LONG time, about 4-6 hours. Don’t get scammed on tickets going to the Statue; buy them beforehand.
Or, take the Staten Island Ferry for a closer view. It’s free and takes anywhere from 60-90 minutes round trip.
Charging Bull/Wall Street
9/11 Museum, be prepared for a very somber yet well-presented experience.
7- Explore Central Park
Heckscher Playground
Balto Statue
Central Park Carousel
Literary Walk
Alice in Wonderland Statue
Conservatory Water
Loeb Boathouse
Bethesda Terrace & Fountain
The Mall
This video/route shows you how to do all the best spots in Central Park in roughly 2-3 hours.
This Episode’s You’ll Have to Check It Out Segment – Eataly NYC
Eataly has three locations in New York, Flatiron, Downtown, and Soho and 20 across the globe. They have locations in places like Dallas and Las Vegas, and even as far as Istanbul and Japan.
From the Eataly website: “The idea was simple: to gather high-quality food at sustainable and reasonable prices, to celebrate Italian biodiversity, and to create an informal, natural, and simple place to EAT, SHOP, and LEARN — all under one roof.”
On top of a robust collection of authentic Italian groceries, bites, and drinks, most Eataly locations have restaurants and bars inside the store. It’s the perfect spot to grab some food for a picnic at one of NYC’s amazing parks!
The Flatiron location has a rooftop restaurant, the Downtown location has a beautiful wine and cocktail bar, and the Soho location has a pizza and pasta focused restaurant.
Be sure to check out their events for when you’re in town! Eataly often has unlimited wine and food fests, cooking classes, and more.
Check out the NYC locations here (links open Google Maps in new tab):
Downtown

Flatiron

Soho
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24min
July 23, 2024Best Airport to Fly Into New York City: Pros & Cons of LGA, JFK, EWR
In this episode we break down, with stats and opinions, the best airport to fly into New York City. We'll discuss the pros and cons of LGA, JFK, and Newark Airports.
Flying Into Newark Airport to Go to NYC
Located in New Jersey, across the Hudson from NYC

Public Transportation cost into Manhattan: usually about $16 for the train from the airport to Penn Station in NYC, then (depending on final location) another $2.90 for a subway swipe
Stats about Newark Airport Delays
From April 2019 to April 2024, Newark Airport had a 73.1% on-time rate for flights (worst of the three).
It also had a 3.96% cancellation rate (highest of the three)
Pros of Newark Airport
It's usually the lowest-cost option for flights alone
Cons of Newark Airport
Has the longest average security wait time of the 3 airports at 23 minutes, compared to 16 for JFK and 17 for LGA

It is a trek to get there, and if you don't hit the train at the right time, you can end up waiting for an extended amount of time for the next train

Finding the AirTrain can be confusing; it's not very well-marked

If you take an Uber or Lyft or any type of driving, it's the most challenging and confusing airport I've ever driven to/from

You have to go to New Jersey 😜
Flying Into JFK Airport
JFK is the largest of the 3 NYC airports, with 128 gates

It also has the highest number of destinations globally out of the 3 options

Public Transportation cost into Manhattan: $11.40, one subway swipe + AirTrain ride
Stats about JFK Airport Delays
From April 2019 to April 2024, JFK Airport had a 76.45% on-time rate for flights.
It also had a 2.75% cancellation rate.
Pros of JFK
Arguably, the easiest to get into NYC via public transportation, the most straightforward navigation

Often, it is the cheaper option overall, depending on where you're coming from

Due to the size, there are a plethora of lounges, food options, and shops
Cons of JFK
Currently, there is a major reconstruction project that won't be complete until 2028

Much further away from Manhattan than you think, and quite risky that you'll hit traffic
Flying Into La Guardia Airport
Many of the terminals have been recently renovated

Geographically, it is closest to Midtown Manhattan out of the 3 options. Half the distance of the other two options

Public Transportation cost into Manhattan: $2.90, one subway swipe
Stats about LGA Airport Delays
From April 2019 to April 2024, LGA Airport had a 76.62% on-time rate for flights.
It also had a 3.69% cancellation rate.
Pros of LGA
The views when you take off and land are the best

New Chase Sapphire Lounge and a fantastic Centurion Lounge

Quality shopping options for last-minute souvenirs

Many of their food options are popular local NYC chains

If you Uber or Lyft, it is the cheapest and fastest airport by car

Public transportation into NYC is the cheapest of the 3 airports
Cons of LGA
The public transportation route can be confusing; the bus stops aren't super clearly marked

We seem to do more walking to our gate from security than other airports

Usually more expensive to fly into
Our Pick for Best Airport to Fly Into New York & Recap
La Guardia!
Be sure to download our Ultimate Transportation Guide to learn exactly how to get to and from each airport. https://rebrand.ly/nyc-navigation-guide
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25min
July 09, 2024 5 Things to Do in Dumbo, Brooklyn
The Dumbo neighborhood in Brooklyn is a vibrant, albeit crowded and touristy, spot to take in views of Manhattan, explore the waterfront, and enjoy some delicious food.
Where is Dumbo?
It encompasses two sections: one situated between the Manhattan and Brooklyn Bridges, which connect Brooklyn to Manhattan across the East River, and another extending eastward from the Manhattan Bridge to the Vinegar Hill area.
Why Is It Called Dumbo?
Dumbo stands for "Down under Manhattan Bridge overpass" and was said to be coined in the '90s by locals to make the neighborhood sound less desirable to developers.
1- Walk the Brooklyn Bridge
It's crowded but worth it; try to go at off-times. You can walk in from the Manhattan side across the Brooklyn Bridge into Dumbo!
2- Timeout Market
Spread across 24,000 square feet, the curated dining destination packs multiple eateries, three bars, a fifth-floor rooftop, and art installations into one space that encompasses the best food, drinks, and culture that New York has to offer.
3- Evil Twin Brewing
Their flagship brewery is in Ridgewood in Brooklyn, but their Dumbo location boasts almost 20 local beers on tap.
This Episode's You'll Have to Check It Out Segment - Bargemusic
Since 1977, Bargemusic has presented chamber music in an unlikely and startlingly beautiful venue—a floating barge at the foot of the Brooklyn Bridge. Both established and emerging musicians perform at Bargemusic on a small stage with the dramatic backdrop of the East River and lower Manhattan skyline.
Mark Peskanov, Bargemusic Artistic Director, has performed for decades with the likes of Yo-Yo Ma, Isaac Stern, and many other world-famous artists.
4- Grimaldi's Pizzeria
Multi-level Brooklyn staple serving pies for over 100 years.
5- Brooklyn Bridge Park - Views, Free Events, Near the Water
If you go to brooklynbridgepark.org, they have a full calendar of free activities, including workout classes, live music, movie showings, and other fun activities.

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17min
June 25, 2024Visiting NYC with Kids: Activities, Food Options & Getting Around
Visiting NYC with kids can be overwhelming, but we'll provide some tips and advice to make it enjoyable!
General Tips & Advice for Visiting NYC with Kids
A fold up stroller is worth bringing, even if just for storing and holding things

Adjust expectations for how much you can fit into one day

If it feels intimidating, remember that if people can live in NYC with kids, you can visit with them!

Build in playground breaks for kids to truly get their wiggles out

Set aside afternoon chill time back at the hotel to decompress
Best Activities for Kids NYC
For museums:
make sure everyone is fed before going

curb your expectations. Plan for 1 hour/1.5 hours for a museum.

some museums have kids activity booklets

Sister in law recommended each kid picking a "must see" section. There is simply too much to see so that can be a good way to focus your time.
Good museum options:
Intrepid Museum

AMNH

The MET (weapons)

Children's museum of the arts, NY aquarium

Spyscape Musuem

MoMa
Other Activities
Broadway show (Play that Goes Wrong, Aladdin, Lion King)

Central Park

Any of the parks-- searching free activities for kids

Shopping (depending on the kid). Fun Shopping

Color Factory

Central Park Zoo

Yankees or Mets game (day game)

The high line

NY Public Library

Walk across the Brooklyn Bridge

Hudson River Park in general (playgrounds)
Food Spots with Kids
Food halls work best so they can have multiple options and more space

Find types of food that you and your kids won't be able to try back at home, let it be an exploration

Opt for "off times" when the restaurants are less crowded
Getting Around NYC with Kids
Only some stations have elevators or escalators

Uber has an option for car seats

Take extra care on the subway with kids.
Be sure to download the free NYC navigation guide today: https://rebrand.ly/nyc-navigation-guide
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23min
June 11, 2024Chelsea Market Review: Guide to Best Shops & Places to Eat
Chelsea Market is a bustling market in New York City with dozens of shops, local art, and delicious food spots.
In this article, we'll review the best shops and places to eat in Chelsea Market!
Brief History of Chelsea Market
Originally constructed in the 1890s

Was the home of the National Biscuit Company, aka Nabisco, from the late 1890s until 1956

The Oreo cookie was invented and first produced here

Redeveloped in the 1990s and is now owned by Alphabet Inc., the parent company of Google

Also includes office spaces on upper levels for companies like Oxygen Network, MLB.com, Google, YouTube, and the Food Network
Best Shops at Chelsea Market
Artists & Fleas

Posman Books

Anthropologie

Pearl River Mart

Heatonist

Saxelby Cheesemongers

Sarabeth's Bakery

Varying pop-up shops and market areas
Best Places to Eat at Chelsea Market
Los Tacos No. 1

Doughnuttery

A Taste of Economy Candy

Berlin Currywurst

Creamline American Classics

The Lobster Place Seafood Hall

Takumi Taco

La Devozione
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14min
May 28, 2024NYC Packing List: 7 Essential Items + 3 Things NOT to Bring
Preparing for an unforgettable trip to New York City? To ensure you have a smooth and enjoyable experience, it’s crucial to pack wisely. This concise NYC packing list highlights seven essential items that will enhance your visit
From comfortable footwear for exploring the city streets to weather-appropriate clothing, we’ve got you covered. Let’s dive into the must-have items for your NYC adventure!
Here are the 7 items you’ll need (link opens in Amazon for our best recommendations).
Comfortable Footwear

Weather-Appropriate Clothing

Bag, Fanny Pack, or Backpack

Pepper Spray

Electronics and Portable Charger

Portable Water Bottle

Compact Umbrella
While those items above should be on your NYC packing list, the following items should NOT!
Pets

Expensive Jewelry

Large Amounts of Cash
With this NYC packing list, you’ll be well-prepared to make the most of your time in the city that never sleeps!
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16min
May 14, 2024Best Rainy Day Activities in NYC
Odds are, you'll have a rainy spell while in New York City. This episode breaks down all the best rainy day activities in NYC!
It rains roughly 35% of the days each year, historically and the rainiest month on average is June!
So, pack water-resistant shoes, a rain jacket, and an umbrella.
Best Rainy Day Activities in NYC
Finding cheap Broadway tickets, matinees are a great daytime activity

Bar hopping

Museums

Movie theater

Covered rooftop

Bowling is too expensive and not worth it

Markets & food halls like Chelsea Market or Pier 57

Grand Central Terminal

New York Public Library

Sporting events

Concerts

Karaoke

Shopping
Happy exploring, and stay dry!
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13min

FAQs about Better Together Here: Exploring NYC:

How many episodes does Better Together Here: Exploring NYC have?

The podcast currently has 33 episodes available.