Rossilynne Skena Culgan

Finding the best hotel in NYC to stay at, whether on a trip here or a staycation, is paramount. Yes, you’ll likely be out and about and the hotel simply serves as a place to lay your head, but a good hotel can make or break your time in the city. New York prides itself on its hospitality and that is pretty clearly evidenced by its best hotels. Every kind of traveler can find their perfect holiday haven in this glorious city, from sleek boutique hotels in the city’s trendiest neighborhoods to opulent luxury stays near the top NYC attractions. You’ll even find some of the best spas and restaurants tucked inside their lobbies. Whether you’re a first-time visitor to the Big Apple or a local craving an inner-city staycation, these properties take the cake when it comes to hospitality and hotel perks. Cue room service. February 2025 update: We have completely revamped our list by visiting dozens of hotels across NYC, most recently, the Carlyle. So know that when you’re reading this list, you’re getting the most up-to-date information. 🇺🇸 Click here to view our full guide to the best things to do in NYC🏨 Discover the best cheap hotels in NYC🌉 Explore the coolest Airbnbs in Brooklyn💗 Book one of the best boutique hotels in NYC Who makes the cut? While we might not stay in and review every hotel featured, we've based our list on our expert knowledge of the destination covered, editorial reviews, user reviews, hotel amenities, and in-depth research to find you the best stays.

The city is just beginning to warm up and thaw out from its winter slumber with some incredible NYC events in March, including St. Patrick's Day and Women’s History Month. For sure, we'll all be heading to the best Irish pubs in the city, but there's much more to do, from a fascinating exhibit at the New York Transit Museum to the transportive Orchid Show at NYBG. And finally, we can start fantasizing about packing away that puffy coat and gearing up best things to do in spring. RECOMMENDED: Full NYC events calendar for 2025

If you’re looking for the best things to do in NYC this week, or even for today, there are tons of fun options, including The Gates augmented reality experience, a tortilla making class at Ánimo, Mondays in the Club with Lance, Legends of Leyenda, and awesome free events in NYC! For more ideas, scroll down to see this week's best things to do in NYC. RECOMMENDED: Full list of the best things to do in New York Stay in the Loop: Sign up for our free weekly newsletter to get the latest in New York City news, culture and dining. 

Looking for the best things to do in NYC this weekend? Whether you’re the group planner searching for more things to do in NYC today or you have no plans yet, here are some ideas to add to your list for this weekend: The Lunar New Year Parade, The Orchid Show: Mexican Modernism, Yoko Ono's birthday celebration, a bevy of Valentine's Day events, and free events around town. All you have to do is scroll down to plan your weekend! RECOMMENDED: Full list of the best things to do in NYCRECOMMENDED: The best New York attractions Stay in the Loop: Sign up for our free weekly newsletter to get the latest in New York City news, culture and dining. 

Wear your sunblock: The best NYC events in June 2025 are things to do outside. When you’re not spending all your free time soaking up the sun at the best beaches or drinking atop the city’s finest rooftop bars, you'll be rocking your rainbow during the Pride March and catching Tribeca Festival screeners. Get your tickets now for the best happenings of the month and keep your fingers (and toes) crossed for good weather. RECOMMENDED: Full NYC events calendar for 2025

Now that spring is in full swing, there’s no shortage of outstanding NYC events in May 2025. We encourage you to find things to do outside and take in all the greenery by visiting some of the best NYC parks while the flowers are blooming. As for the month’s major holidays, don’t miss out on all the awesome things to do for Mother’s Day and Memorial Day.  From parades to performances and art exhibits to night markets, there's no shortage of ways to have fun in NYC this May.  RECOMMENDED: Full NYC events calendar

Spring has sprung! Some of the best events in NYC are set to bloom in April 2025. Aside from celebrating holidays like Easter, you'll be able to take in the gorgeous blooms at the dazzling Orchid Show at the New York Botanical Garden. Speaking of buds, take advantage of checking out the best NYC parks, while all the flowers and trees are starting to bloom. And there’s even more greenery fun for outdoorsy folks—Earth Day, of course.  RECOMMENDED: Full NYC events calendar in 2025

Some of the best things to do in summer are NYC events in July. Even after all the 4th of July events simmer down, there are still many awesome things to do for the duration of the month. After Independence Day, enjoy fantastic outdoor fun, hit up one of the city’s many rooftops and make sure to pencil in getting a tan at the best beaches in NYC while the weather is still hot, hot, hot.  RECOMMENDED: Full NYC events calendar

With so many things to do in New York, you’d be hard-pressed to come up empty handed when devising date plans. On the other hand, too many choices can be overwhelming. We’re here to help with the best date ideas in NYC, options that are sure to woo your current crush or rekindle the flames with your longtime love. Among the best restaurants in New York, several are exceptionally romantic and always a good choice. Taking a stroll around any of these romantic spots in New York is a great way to get things started. After that, try one of these date-worthy itineraries and watch the sparks fly. If you’re watching your wallet, we can also recommend these cheap date ideas in NYC, and if you’re looking for something really different, these unique date ideas will ensure your next rendezvous is anything but ordinary. RECOMMENDED: The most romantic getaways in New YorkRECOMMENDED: The best matchmakers in NYC

Valentine's Day in NYC can be a hard date to plan, we've got some foolproof ideas to help you create a dreamy evening together whether you're celebrating on the 14th or anytime in February. From dining out in style to catching a show or ordering in from some of the best restaurants in NYC, treat your S.O. to a day to remember for Cupid's holiday. Whether you're on a budget or looking to splurge, there's a litle something on this list for you. Need more inspiration? Here's our full list of events happening on and around Valentine's Day in NYC this year. RECOMMENDED: The best things to do on Valentine’s Day in NYC

Don't leave Valentine's Day up to fate. NYC has awesome amorous events, from concerts to dance classes and more, to attend with your date, your friends or even solo. Whether you love or hate Cupid's holiday, we’ve put together a list of the best things to do on Valentine’s day, including romantic restaurants, decadent chocolate shops and the most romantic things to do to get you in the mood—or not!  Without further ado, our list of Valentine's things to do, presented in chronological order so you can keep the fun going all month long. RECOMMENDED: Full guide to Valentine’s Day in NYCRECOMMENDED: The most romantic hotels to book in NYC  

In the winter doldrums of February in NYC, after a money-sucking December and a resolution-filled January, it’s time to double down and really enjoy the winter with the best NYC events in February. Our event calendar includes some of the best things to do in winter as well as some epic Valentine’s Day events. This month is also a good excuse to take advantage of our winter getaways list, so plan your escape from the city and keep your fingers crossed for a little bit of snow to add to the winter wonderland aesthetic. RECOMMENDED: Full NYC events calendar

For anybody who needs a laugh, comedian Kevin Hart is bringing his "Acting My Age" tour to Radio City Music Hall this spring. Hart was recognized as one of Forbes' top-grossing stand-up comedians in 2019, and he's known for captivating audiences at his shows. He's hosting shows March 7-9, but the March 7 and 8 dates are already sold out.         

Journey back in time to April 15, 1874 in Paris, when Impressionist painters began creating their groundbreaking work. Through the art and science of virtual reality, you can now join them as they break away from traditional academic painting, focusing instead on capturing light, color and atmosphere in new ways. Titled "Tonight with the Impressionists: Paris 1874," this VR exhibition will take you back to the streets of 19th-century Paris to meet the artists behind the paintings and experience key moments in the Impressionist movement. Meet Monet, Renoir, Morisot, Degas, and others as they depict everyday life and outdoor scenes with spontaneous brushstrokes and vibrant colors. Expect to spend about 45 minutes fully immersed in their world thanks to your VR headset. The exhibition was created by Excurio in collaboration with the renowned Musée d’Orsay in Paris. See it at Eclipso, located at 555 West 57th Street. Tickets range in price from $30-$44 depending on the date.  RECOMMENDED: I stepped back into ancient Egypt at this fascinating virtual reality experience in NYC

This new rink welcomes skaters to the Williamsburg waterfront. Skaters can glide around the 7,000-square-foot rink while taking in the views of the Manhattan skyline. For a special treat, book a skating session around sunset to watch as the city lights flicker on for the night.  Domino Park Ice Rink is part of the new one-acre public plaza and events space at the Domino Sugar redevelopment site. Skaters of all ages are invited to the rink every day this winter with tickets ranging from $9-$22/per session plus skate rental.  

As if it weren't hilarious enough in real life, Tinder (the wildly popular dating app) gets exposed in this comedy show. If you're hoping for some swiping tips (no matter how ridiculous), this is the event for you. Like Tinder in real life, anything can happen at this show hosted by Lane Moore. This week's Valentine's Day-themed livestream show is on Saturday, February 15. 

If you're single and ready to mingle, this suite of events is so here for you. Single and The City is organizing a series of speed dating events and singles parties all throughout the city in February. Here's what's on tap: — Friday, February 7, Rescue Me Singles Party: Snag yourself a hero at this singles mixer which brings together the city's eligible first responders. The event's at House Watch.— Saturday, February 8, Stoplight Silent Disco: You'll get a glowstick necklace when you arrive to indicate your status (green for single, yellow for it's complicated, and red for off the market). Expect fun icebreakers and dances for singles. It's at Fifth Avenue Empire Penthouse— Thursday, February 13, Galentine's Wingwoman Speed Networking + Social Mixer: Celebrate friendship and fun at this Galentine's Social Mixer at Houston Hall. The event's tailored for women looking to make new connections and enjoy a night out.— Friday, February 14, Anti-Valentine's Day Singles Mixer and Fast Friends "Speed" Networking for Singles: Expect icebreakers, good music, and a SpeedMatch app to help you connect. It's at Katch Astoria.— Friday, February 14, Gen X Valentines Day Speed Dating: Ditch the dating apps and experience the fun of meeting other Gen X singles in person. It's hosted at House Watch. Check out Single and the City's website for details and to purchase tickets to any (or all) of their upcoming events.

Remember playing the game Mafia? This beloved camp classic is getting a high-stakes treatment in front of a live audience at Caveat on Monday, February 10 with host Sathya Sridharan.  In the game, darkness lurks at the edge of town, killing innocent townspeople every night. Actors and comedians are charged with rooting out the liars and killers among them for a night of hilarity and deception. The cast includes Marinda Anderson, Gwen Ellis, Arielle Goldman, Jasminn Johnson, KeiLyn Durrel Jones, Stephanie Lane, Forrest Malloy, Margaret Odette, Joshua David Robinson, Paton Ashbrook, and Natalie Marshall Hirsch. 

This is so much better than ordering takeout: Take on a tortilla making class with the expert chef at Ánimo, a new Mexican restaurant in Midtown East. Learn the tricks of the trade from Executive Chef Jonathan Barragan, who will teach you the art of crafting authentic tortillas from scratch. This hands-on experience includes: The class, tacos made with your own tortillas, refreshing agua fresca, and a beautiful tortilla warmer to take home. As an extra treat, be among the first to preview new dishes from the restaurant's upcoming dinner menu.  Class is being held on Thursday, February 20, 6-7:30pm.

Forget buying lingerie off the rack. Instead, make your own with these workshops at Rue du Paradis. The business in Brooklyn's Industry City always offers lingerie-making and jockstrap-making workshops, but for Valentine's Day, they've added extra special sessions.  There's a Valentines Day Panty Making Workshop on February 14. Or a Valentines Day Panty Making Workshop & Aphrodisiac Lollipop Making Workshop on February 14-15. Whether you're going solo, with friends, or with a date, you'll leave with something beautiful to wear beneath your Valentine's 'fit. Pieces are made-to-measure, so you'll get a one-of-a-kind garment that fits your body perfectly.  Rue du Paradis is run by Fanny Karaman who is commited to inclusivity and diversity with a dream "for everyone to be able to experience ethically produced made-to-measure lingerie."

Grab your gals and grab a reservation at Bar Bonobo in Chelsea for a Galentine's Day celebration. The female-owned craft cocktail bar will welcome a tarot reader on Thursday, February 13 from 7-10pm as a vinyl DJ from 8pm. The menu features two special themed drinks. First, the Cupid's Chokehold with pisco, vodka, cherry blossom, citrus, and a black cherry garnish. Second, the Safe Word with tequila, mezcal, pistachio, cynar, amaretto, lime, bitters, and a Dubai pistachio chocolate garnish.

Only people in the know go to these secret jazz speakeasy shows, but don't worry, we're about to let you in on the secret. These undergound live jazz performances called Daddy Rabbit are the epitome of cool. Musician extraordinaire Misha Piatigorsky launched Daddy Rabbit a few years ago, and the series has gained quite a following. Grab a ticket here for upcoming shows at LOULOU in Chelsea. Here's the lineup: — Monday, February 10: Khailah Johnson — Saturday, March 8: Benny Benack III— Friday, March 21: A tribute to David Bowie featuring Emily Braden, Rahj Mason, and Tatum Greenblatt— Monday, March 24: Khailah Johnson— Friday, April 11: Details TBD— Friday, April 25: Details TBD

On Sunday mornings at 11am in Manhattan, GatherNYC creates the community and spiritual nourishment of a religious service, but the focus here is music. All are welcome at these hour-long performances of classical music by celebrated local artists. Coffee and pastries are included in the ticket price. These upcoming events are held at the Museum of Arts and Design (MAD) in Columbus Circle. Shows are scheduled through June 2025. Here’s what’s on the calendar: • February 16: Sarah Elizabeth Charles (voice) and Jarrett Cherner (piano)• March 2: Toomai Quintet and Maria Brea (narrator)• March 16: Daedalus Quartet• March 30: MATA• April 13: Deborah Buck (violin) and Orli Shaham (piano)• April 27: ETHEL and Layale Chaker (violin)• May 11: Solomiya Ivakhiv (violin) and friends: Music from Ukraine• May 25: Rupert Boyd (guitar)• June 8: Orpheus and Boyd Meets Girl

Cherry Pitz and Handsome Brad return with their night of scripted burlesque (subtitled "The Home for Wayward Girls and Fallen Women"), held monthly on Lower East Side. This production sees the crew once again bringing a fun theme to the stage.  For Valentine's weekend, the show focuses on the ladies of Disney. The show's on Thursday, February 13 at The Slipper Room. Tickets always go fast for Hotsy Totsy Burlesque shows, so hurry up if you want to go.

A century ago, at the peak of the Harlem Renaissance, The Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture was formed. The Harlem-based organization, a part of the New York Public Library, has grown into a national landmark and world-renowned institution dedicated to the preservation and public access of Black history. It houses 11 million of items, including what is believed to be the first book written by a Black man; the unpublished last chapter of Malcolm X’s autobiography; the papers of Maya Angelou and James Baldwin; and much more. To commemorate its 100 years in existence, The Schomburg Center will host a year-long celebration, library officials announced this month. Activities including a suite of new public programming, an exhibition that explores center's legacy, a Centennial Festival and even a special-edition NYPL library card.  RECOMMENDED: The best Black History Month events in NYC Photograph: Courtesy Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture Centennial events Expect special events throughout the year. Here’s what’s planned so far: 100: A Century of Collections, Community, and Creativity exhibit Learn about the library’s history while exploring objects from each of Schomburg’s divisions. This exhibition opening on May 8 will surround visitors with the sights, sounds, and objects that comprise Schomburg's historic past.  The Schomburg Center Centennial Festival This major festival on June 14 will take over the inside and outside of The Schomburg Center for

Cuddling up in bed with your lover sure sounds romantic. But as anybody with a long-term partner knows, there can be challenges to getting a good night of sleep together: Arms falling asleep. An accidental kick in the shin. Trying to fall asleep when someone is snoring in your ear.  With that in mind, the boutique hotel Freehand is offering perhaps the most romantic package of all: A sleep divorce package. That means your room will come with bunkbeds. Each person will get their own sleeping quarters, but you'll still be close to each other.  RECOMMENDED: The 32 best hotels in NYC, from midtown to NoMad and the Upper East Side “It's been proven that quality sleep can work wonders for a relationship—but what if the secret lies in separate beds?” the hotel asks in a press release.  According to the American Academy of Sleep Medicine, 29% of Americans have opted to sleep in another bed in the same bedroom or in another space in the home to accommodate a bed partner. In 2023, respondents admitted to sleeping in another room on occasion (20%) or consistently (15%) to accommodate a bed partner. Photograph: Courtesy Freehand “The term might sound alarming, but it’s not about ending a relationship—it's about prioritizing sleep health and addressing the sleep issues that may be eroding a relationship, such as snoring, tossing and turning, or differing sleep schedules,” the academy's spokesperson Dr. Seema Khosla said online. “A sleep divorce is not a sign of a relationship in trouble

As I stepped inside Dalidom this week, a trippy mirrored dome designed by Salvador Dalí, I overheard someone gazing at the ceiling and asking, "Where am I? I'm trying to find myself." While he was, no doubt, speaking literally about seeking his own image in the mirrored panels surrounding us, his question seemed to scratch at the meaning of Luna Luna: Forgotten Fantasy.  Over and over as I walked through Luna Luna, the world's first art amusement park making its NYC debut, I felt gleefully unmoored. I watched as a Keith Haring-designed carousel whirred to life. I stumbled through a Roy Lichtenstein-created glass labyrinth. I danced with strangers inside David Hockney's Enchanted Tree. Where am I? How is this real? Who am I in this place and what will I take from it when I leave? The exhibition feels both joyfully nostalgic and yet mysteriously foreign, a gobsmacking experience brought to life at The Shed in Manhattan after decades of dormancy. Luna Luna is, hands down, the coolest art exhibition to open in New York City this year, and it's on view through February 23, 2025 with tickets starting at $44/person. RECOMMENDED: Incredible immersive experiences to do in NYC right now Back in 1987, an artist and peace activist named André Heller hosted Luna Luna for the first time in Hamburg, Germany. That summer, the experience delighted 300,000 visitors with an avant-garde art amusement park created by big-name artists like Sonia Delaunay alongside then up-and-comers like Jean-Mich

Some 4,500 years ago, ancient Egyptians built the Great Pyramid of Giza—the greatest pyramid the world had ever seen. Sure, you can read about this incredible civilization in history books, but you can now walk through their pyramid without ever leaving New York City. A new virtual reality experience called Horizon of Khufu offers a chance to travel miles away and back in time.  On a chilly February afternoon, I got a chance to try the experience created by virtual reality entertainment company Excurio and held at Eclispo. It was my first brush with virtual reality, and I wasn't sure to expect. As someone who gets seasick, I was especially nervous. But I ended up enjoying the journey, learning a lot, and even being charmed by the virtual characters I met along the way. Here's why Horizon of Khufu is worth checking out. RECOMMENDED: Incredible immersive experiences to do in NYC right now Closing the door at 555 West 57th Street against the wind, I entered what looked like an office building and was asked to sign a waiver for the experience. That didn't help my nervousness, but I persevered for journalism's sake. Soon, I was outfitted with a VR headset and given some explanation of how to use it. I didn't realize that the headset would completely take over my entire field of view (be kind, I'm new to this world). I couldn't even see my own feet or my wristwatch! For safety, I could see other patrons, rendered as white orb-like figures, to make sure we didn't bump into each othe

Need a vacation? Head to The Bronx for The Orchid Show: Mexican Modernism at New York Botanical Garden. The sprawling floral exhibition, with its vibrant colors, flowing waterfalls and thousands of orchids, makes for a transportive tropical escape.  This year's show, presented in the Enid A. Haupt Conservatory, was inspired by the art of the Mexican modernist architect Luis Barragán. Throughout your floral adventure, you'll learn about the late artist's ethos as you stroll through meditative spaces, explore minimalist designs and notice contrasting details. The Orchid Show: Mexican Modernism is open from February 15-April 27. Don't miss Orchid Nights, 21+ events on select nights that feature cumbia music, dancing, and drinks.  RECOMMENDED: The Orchid Show in NYC guide Quite presciently, Barragán envisioned gardens of magical places for peace and contemplation—necessary for the well-being of busy urban dwellers. New York Botanical Garden brings his vision to life for New Yorkers, offering quiet, cozy corners for reflection throughout the show.  Photograph: Rossilynne Skena Culgan for Time Out New York Orchids—thousands of them in a variety of shapes, sizes, and colors—steal the show here, but other plants such as cacti and agave are featured as well. Visitors can wander through room after room admiring everything from ruby red paphiopedilum to towering cacti. In each lush landscape, take time to engage your senses: listen to the water cascading from a fountain, breathe in th

On a February morning in the early aughts, an ambitious public art project called “The Gates” filled Central Park with flowing orange flags that visitors could walk beneath. It was open for just two weeks, bringing some much-needed levity to the city. More than 4 million people visited Central Park during the show's short run, and it generated an estimated $254 million in economic activity across the city. Now, in celebration of these beloved artworks by the late artists Christo and Jeanne-Claude, a cutting-edge augmented reality experience on the Bloomberg Connects app will allow New Yorkers to discover The Gates once again. It's available to view in Central Park, along with a complementary exhibition at The Shed, from February 12-March 23. RECOMMENDED: The best outdoor art in NYC this winter To try the experience in Central Park, you'll need to download the free Bloomberg Connects app on your smart phone. On the app, you'll find a map that will guide you through the experience. Start your walk at 72nd Street and Fifth Avenue, then follow along with the signs from there. The app divides the experience into different sections. You'll need to recalibrate the augmented reality at each station stop (don't worry, directions at each sign will show you how). Photograph: Rossilynne Skena Culgan for Time Out New York Then, you'll get to walk through the gates, virtually anyway. You can even pose for pictures and videos. I didn't live in New York City back in 2005, so I never got to

Long before New Yorkers could aimlessly scroll on their phones while riding on the subway, they could always read The Subway Sun. This subway poster series, designed to look like a newspaper's front page, encouraged civility, safety, cleanliness, and pride in their city and its mass transit rail system. A new exhibit at the New York Transit Museum in Brooklyn, titled "Shining a Light on The Subway Sun: The art of Fred G. Cooper and Amelia Opdyke Jones," brings the ad campaign's story to life. See a collection of original artwork and vintage posters from the 1930s and 1940s—many of which are still incredibly relevant today.  RECOMMENDED: Let me tell you—I spent six hours underground at a midtown subway station. You should, too. For five decades, The Subway Sun advised, informed and admonished New York subway riders, quickly becoming a part of daily life for millions of riders. The posters featured bold headlines, alongside comic book-style illustrations. Headlines included: "Trains can't wait because you're late; please do not squeeze thru closing doors" and "It can happen here! Your subways will be clean if you help keep them that way." Other posters advertised destinations the subway could take you to, such as Coney Island (billed as "Fabulous! Famous! Thrilling!"), as well as the Bronx Zoo, the Hayden Planetarium, and the Brooklyn Museum. Photograph: Artwork by Amelia Opdyke Jones | Courtesy of New York Transit Museum Collection By the mid-1930s, illustrator Fred G. Coope

Time travel may be impossible, but these train journeys with Hudson River Rail Excursions are the next best thing. You can board a beautifully restored 1940s train for a day trip along the majestic Hudson River as you take in scenic, historic sights.  Here's the catch: If you want to try this bucket list experience, do it now because the excursions are soon going on an indefinite hiatus to accommodate Amtrak construction. Tours are now on sale for dates through March 2—and these will be the only day trips of 2025. Ticket prices range from $179-$399 depending on the date and other selections.  RECOMMENDED: Let me tell you—it’s time for a train travel renaissance Back in 1948, the New York Central Railroad unveiled a brand new 20th Century Limited train with the modern amenities and the most talented staff, catering to the highest of society. Entrepreneurs, business people, celebrities, and even former presidents knew there was no better way to travel between New York City and Chicago, giving it the title "The World's Most Famous Train." Now, the United Railroad Historical Society of NJ (URHS) is drawing inspiration from that golden era of train travel with its Hudson River Rail Excursions.  Photograph: courtesy Hudson River Rail Excursions Three vintage trains cars—the Hickory Creek, Swift Stream, and Tavern-Lounge No. 43—are available for for excursions along the Hudson River. Called the Farewell (For Now) Classic Day Trips, these first-class train trips offer a 7.5-hour jo

Every spring, as celebrities walk the red carpet for the Met Gala, they try to fit a particular dress code. Then fashion-lovers (and haters) debate their sartorial selections. This year's dress code was just announced, and it's "Tailored for You," so expect to see suiting and menswear in the spotlight. The Met Gala conventions can be a little confusing—even to New Yorkers—so we're going to break it down. Here's everything we know about the 2025 Met Gala theme, dress code, and exhibit.  RECOMMENDED: Here are all the exhibits coming to the Metropolitan Museum of Art this spring 2025 What is The Met Gala? It's not just a party.  Though The Met Gala red carpet gets the spotlight, that star-studded event is actually in service of the Metropolitan Museum of Art's exhibits. The money raised at the party is the main source of funding for the Met's Costume Institute (that's the Met department that handles fashion exhibits and maintains a massive collection of clothing).  Last year, The Met Gala raised a whopping $24 million for The Costume Institute, per the New York Times. In 2024, a ticket cost $75,000, the Times added. So, celebs, please go ahead and open your pocketbooks to help the Met create museum exhibits for us all to enjoy. This year's Met Gala will be held on Monday, May 5, then the exhibit opens to the public a few days later. Anna Wintour, Vogue's editor-in-chief, is the co-chair of the event, a position she's held since the 1990s. Colman Domingo, Lewis Hamilton, A$AP Roc

"Let Me Tell You" is a series of columns from our expert editors about NYC living, including the best things to do, where to eat and drink, and what to see at the theater. They publish each Tuesday so you’re hearing from us each week. Last time, Things to Do Editor Rossilynne Skena Culgan shared 25 New Year's resolutions for New Yorkers. New York City's subway system is built for efficiency. As soon as the subway doors pop open at my stop, I hustle (typically running late) to the next place I'm going. The subway station itself passes in a blur. I might briefly admire the art or say “hi” to pizza rat and his ilk, but I'm focused on finding the exit to get to my next destination. That's why it was so unusual for me to intentionally stop in my tracks to spend six hours inside the 50th Street 1 Station for this reporting project. My underground sojourn turned out to be a delightful, only-in-New-York way to spend a day—an experience packed with comforting chai, excellent thin-crust pizza, creative cocktails, great company, and a sense of joy I saw over and over. So allow me to beckon you: Let's go underground. Here's how (and why) to do it.  RECOMMENDED: Here’s how to do a DIY walking tour of Manhattan, from top to bottom For a while now, I'd been hearing the buzz about See No Evil Pizza, the underground pizza parlor inside a subway station. I heard it was next to Nothing Really Matters, a cocktail bar I visited a few years back and loved (incidentally, it was the first bar I visi

Colorful mosaic artwork in the newly updated 68th Street-Hunter College subway station isn't just brightening up the area. Instead, these abstract glass mosaics by Lisa Corinne Davis tell an important story.  The artist and professor says her work explores the “intersecting worlds” at this particular Upper East Side train station where a diverse population comes together. RECOMMENDED: Subway art is part of a Met Museum exhibit for the first time ever “As a graduate of Hunter's MFA program and as a current professor, I have had many years to observe the muscular congregation of the mostly white and wealthy residents of the neighborhood with the racial, ethnic, religious, economic and political diversity of the Hunter College population,” Davis said in a press release. “Their interaction fills this station with ample evidence of both the realities and aspirations of social and geographic mobility. It is a place where intersecting worlds collide and coexist en route to other actual, metaphorical or metaphysical destinations.” “It is a place where intersecting worlds collide and coexist en route to other actual, metaphorical or metaphysical destinations.” Working with MTA Arts & Design, Davis created three permanent pieces for the station titled “Tempestuous Terrain” and the two-part “Liminal Location.” She drew upon her paintings to create mosaics with engraved glass segments and hand-painted glass pieces.  Photograph: By JSP Art Photography / Courtesy of MTA Arts & Design I

It's said that beauty is in the eye of the beholder, but at this one-of-a-kind matchmaking show, suitors use the scent of smell to make a match. Smells Like Love, an interactive matchmaking show, will debut on Saturday, February 15 at Caveat on the Lower East Side. It's hosted by Emma Vernon, a comedian and matchmaker turned perfume expert.  While the show will no doubt be a blast to watch in the audience, there's still time to register if you're single and want a chance to let your nose do the picking. Be sure to apply here before February 5 to be considered. RECOMMENDED: The best things to do for Valentine’s Day in NYC Think of Smells Like Love as a twist on the classic dating game. With each round, the stakes grow higher—and the smells stronger—as contestants vie for a shot at love, all based on how they smell and what smells appeal to them. One eligible single will take a seat on stage, and a wall will divide them from three suitors. In front of a live audience, they'll answer questions based on their own aromas and how they smell things.  And yes, the single will literally smell the contestants. "With a blindfold, they might physically smell an armpit or a smell a wrist or an article of used clothing," Vernon tells Time Out.  They might physically smell an armpit or a smell a wrist or an article of used clothing. Don't worry, even if you're not on stage, you'll get to smell a lot of stuff, too, as part of a research-backed smell-and-tell. Photograph: By Arin Sang Befor