Croton Gorge Park is one of my favorite parks in New York. When someone says New York, we usually think of buildings, taxis, cars and fast food. But if you are like me and got little bored of New York City and want to enjoy water spring and little mountain you should definitely try Croton Gorge Park. The park offers a beautiful view of the dams and water spillway. I have seen some guys fishing, and picnicking. 

The park also have little mountains. If you like hiking you will definitely enjoy the park. I remember, seeing people even having their wedding photo session on the park, its that beautiful! I personally like the park  because its not too congested and a short gateway from busy New York. You can either go with your friends, girlfriends, or even family. The park is also right next to a river and it feels amazing to sit by the river during summer days. I don't know what's the fee for the park but when I went there on 2010 it was free. But as far as I know it wouldn't be more than $5. 

Direction: Route 129, Cortlandt, NY

Hours: 7 Days a Week from 8 a.m. till Sunset

The two ingredients that make the New York one of the fascinating cities in the world are speed and immigration. And what this has to do with food? Read on.  Here is the deal, the cheapest way to have food in New York is to go with the fast food. You can find any kind of fast food here, bagel, burger, hotdogs, kabob, gyro, pretzel and coffee. You name it they have it on the street! And the good news is they taste delicious.

You can walk down from one block to another block in Manhattan and your cultural choice for food will change since there are so many different immigrants live here. And one of the best things about food in New York is that they are not expensive at all. Well, obviously if you don't go to a fancy restaurants. You can pretty much complete an entire day's meal under $25. That's really cheap! I don't about you guys, but the Gyro's in New York City are the best. The Gyro guys also have a long line which obviously sums up why they are the best. If you are in New York City you must try their pizza. After all the city is known for its pizza. New York, it's oh so good.

My favorite skyline picture of New York city. Gorgeous Empire state building at sunset.
Click on the picture to make it larger. Definitely a wallpaper for your screen

If you lived in Queens, I am sure you went to Astoria park. It's a beautiful park with full of life. The reason I like Astoria park is cause I always took my girlfriend out to the park. Usually at the end of the date when you just want to hold hands or talk about anything serious you can go to Astoria park. The park offers a long walkway by the bridge and river, basketball court, swimming pool, beautiful green trees and a welcoming environment. It is also protected by park police. I have never seen anyone causing any trouble.

There are also plenty of Greek, Italian and French restaurants few blocks away which makes it an ideal place for dating and hangout. Some people also go to the park at night as it is one of the few parks in New York that is open at night. Astoria park is gorgeous at night since the lights from the Tri-borrow bridge reflects of the river water. Many of the young couples that I know visits the park to take pictures by the water. I must say the pictures in Astoria park turns out to be beautiful.

Driving Direction: 

21 Hoyt Ave N

New York, NY 11102

How to get to Astoria park by train:

The best way to get to Astoria Park by train is to take the N train to Astoria Blvd. As soon as you get out of the train look for a bridge and walk toward the bridge. You will have to walk about 10 small blocks. 

Night View from Astoria Park, NYC

The main park of Astoria

Map of Astoria Park

Picnic Spot of Astoria Park

Riverside Walkaway of Astoria Park

I grew up in New York City. The city itself has so much to offer and so many places to go. But out of all the places in New York City my favorite one is the Gantry Plaza Park at Vernon Boulevard. I have seen this place being built from the scratch. It is by far the most beautiful place in Queens, New York. It is 10 minutes drive from the Astoria, Queens and located right next to the 59th Bridge. Vernon Blvd is an urban area of Queens. Many people sees Queens as an Ancient Greek county and some will say that Queens isn't like Manhattan because there is nothing to see. But these people will change their view of Queens if they visit Gantry Plaza Park at Vernon Boulevard. It is located right next to the Hudson river across the magnificent Manhattan skyline.

Vernon Blvd has four man made pier that is not only open during the day but also open at night. You can lay down the chairs and enjoy the sun during the day and watch the city at night. I wouldn't be able to describe in words how beautiful the place is. There are few classy restaurants right next to the park. You can have lunch or dinner while enjoying the river view and Manhattan skyline including the Empire State building and the United Nations. There is also a mist fountain and manicured garden. The place is also good for dating as it is nice and quiet and beautiful. I have seen many wedding to take place. Parking is always available. The neighborhood is clean, educated and very welcoming. Weather you want a place for a date, wedding  or even simply to read a book the Gantry Plaza park is the best in my opinion. 

GPS Direction:
4-09 47th Road
Long Island City, NY 11101

Public Transportation: 
By Subway: Take the 7 train to the Vernon Blvd.-Jackson Ave Station and walk west on 50th
Avenue towards the East River.
It is also possible to take the G train, which stops at 21st St/Jackson Avenue. Walk three blocks
in westward direction towards the promenade. 

The sitting area that I talked about

Here is a close up view. You can sun bath or read a book

Pier at night at Gantry Plaza Park

Skyline and the pier