It’s a big week in NYC! Two of our favorite New York staples are being honored with their very own national days. Thursday, April 23rd will see National Picnic Day extend Earth Day festivities in lush lawns across New York. To close out the week, National Pretzel Day lands on Sunday, April 26, when doughy goodness will be a highlight across our pretzel-laden boroughs. We’ve rounded up the best places to celebrate with tasty pretzels, sprawling lawns, and copious amounts of sunshine. Check them out below and don’t be afraid to combine both!
National Picnic Day – April 23, 2015
Hudson River Park: Pier 63
Park of the Hudson River park, Pier 63 is situated in Chelsea and offers picturesque waterfront views. The pier has unique stone seating in addition to a large, green lawn bowl and a garden by Lynden Miller. Grab the kids for your next picnic; with Chelsea Sports and Entertainment Complex just next door, you never know where the day can lead.
Hudson River Park: Pier 63
Pier 63
New York, NY
(212) 255-5051
hudsonriverpark.org
Central Park: The Great Lawn
An oldie but goodie, the quintessential Central Park Great Lawn becomes a hot spot as soon as the sun begins to shine. Pack up a picnic and bring some friends, and don’t be surprised if you make some new ones along the way. The Lawn stretches from 79th to 85th street – smack in the middle of Central Park.
86th Street Transverse Rd
New York, NY 10024
(212) 874-6168
www.centralpark.com/guide/attractions/great-lawn.html
Astoria Park
This park is known for its beautiful pool — the oldest and largest in the city — but its amenities span far beyond aquatic pleasures. Situated on the edge of the East River, the park rests between the Triborough Bridge and Hell Gate Bridge. Its views and character make it an ideal spot for an outdoor day in NYC. Pack up a lunch and take a seat on the central Great Lawn to enjoy views of popular perimeter areas you might rarely get to visit.
19 St. bet. Astoria Park S. and Ditmars Blvd.
New York, NY 11102
http://www.nycgovparks.org/parks/astoria-park
National Pretzel Day – April 26, 2015
Sigmunds
One of the few spots where New Yorkers can enjoy a soft, doughy and authentic pretzel is Sigmund’s Pretzel Shop in the East Village. Their model is based on the classic pretzel that made the snack famous in New York City years ago. The pretzel dough is hand-twisted and freshly mixed, making it a delicious treat of different varieties.
Sigmund’s Pretzel Shop
29 Avenue B, New York, NY
(646) 410-0333
sigmundnyc.com
Standard Biergarten
It’s hard to beat the views of The High Line, but the Standard Biergarten does just that. Combining open-air views with authentic German fare, this pretzel haven offers all that New Yorkers need to celebrate on April 23rd. Crisp, doughy, and always warm, the pretzels are big enough to share. We bet they will pair perfectly the craft beer that you’ll indulge in as well.
The Standard, High Line
848 Washington St, New York, NY 10014
(877) 550-4646
standardhotels.com
City Bakery
Traditional pretzels will always be a classic, but City Bakery puts a flaky, delightful twist on their own rendition. The Pretzel Croissant (baked for 48 hours) has received rave reviews, drawing foodies by the droves with its distinct taste. Be in the know and try one today!
3 W 18th St, New York, NY 10011
(212) 366-1414
thecitybakery.com
