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Discovering Hidden Gems: Things to Do in New York City

Ellis Island touristy attraction in New York city

Discovering Hidden Gems is what we love the most, so check out some cool things to do in New York City.

Ellis Island touristy attraction in New York city
An amazing shot of the US flag in a park on the Manhattan skyline background

Are you looking to discover some hidden gems in New York City? Today we will share with you some of our favorite things to do in NYC!

With the hustle and bustle of the city, it can be easy to overlook some incredible activities and attractions that are off-the-beaten-path.

In this blog post, we will provide tips on how to uncover these hidden places for locals and visitors alike – so that you don’t miss out on any of the amazing things New York City has to offer!

From delicious Italian eats in Little Italy to sampling craft beers at Yonkers Brewing Company, there are plenty of undiscovered adventures waiting for you.

Read on for our ultimate NYC guide!


Find the best things to do in New York City

Curiosities Our Bucket Lists Carroll Gardens June
June Wine Bar, in Carroll Gardens

Welcome to the city that never sleeps! New York City is truly a place like no other, with an endless array of things to see and do.

After exploring the well-known touristy spots, from the bright lights of Times Square, attending the best Broadway shows and witnessing some of the best musical and theatrical performances in the world….be sure to get tickets to the off-Broadway theaters like Cherry Lane, in the West Village, the longest continuously running Off-Broadway theater.

You should also start exploring to the quiet streets of Brooklyn where or the most amazing local vendors, hidden bars and local gems are.

Be sure to explore Carroll Gardens and Cobble Hill with so many local stores, coffee shops and super hype wine bars like June, on 231 Court Street – loved by locals!

Also, after taking a stroll through Central Park (that I have to say that should AWAYS be explored, regardless of the tourists) or grabbing a bite to eat in one of the trendy neighborhoods like SoHo or the Upper West Side, why not head up to explore Harlem?

We love having lunch or dinner at Seasoned Vegan, one of the best vegan restaurants in NYC.

Dining Seasoned Vegan Harlem Raw Lasagna
Seasoned Vegan – Photo Credit: Kim-Julie Hansen

I’ve taken MOST the meat-eating friends there and they can’t get enough of all the delicious dishes – and always want to go back again. I promise it’s going to surprise you!

If you decide to extend the day a bit more…Harlem is known for some of the most famous and traditional Jazz spots. One of the hidden spots we love is Room 623 – Harlem’s Speakeasy Jazz Club.

Or head down to spots in Manhattan love by locals and jazz lovers like Smalls, Blue Note and the hidden like spot: Zinc!

And don’t forget to explore the incredible street art and live music scene that thrives in this bustling city. Whether you’re a local or a tourist, there is always something new to discover in New York City.

 

Attend unique events

Show at Irving Plaza in New York City

Looking for something out of the ordinary to do this weekend? Why not attend a unique event and discover some hidden gems?

Jazz clubs are the perfect place to unwind and explore some new sounds, while also enjoying a night on the town (like we just mentioned above).

Or, if Halloween is your jam, check out the annual Halloween parade in Greenwich Village, but after head to Blood Manor: New York’s Premier Haunted Attraction. You never know what kind of creative costumes or spooky surprises you’ll encounter along the way!

Exploring unique events can add a little excitement to your routine and give you the opportunity to discover something new.

So go ahead, grab some friends, and try something different this weekend. Be sure to check out venues like the Irving Plaza, or the Metropolitan Museum of Art for some interesting and offbeat events they host during the year (but you need to stay tuned to be sure to not to miss them).

For some Brooklyn spots, be sure to go to Bushwick. There you can explore places like The Keep NYC – a rustic vintage lounge with live music, psychic readings and burlesque performers; or Elsewhere – a huge venue featuring several spaces (including a roof terrace) with live music and DJ nights.

Plus, you’ll get the chance to explore some of New York City’s gems that are often overlooked.

 

Uncover interesting outdoor activities

Day Trips and Travels Macari Vineyards Fernanda Paronetto
Ou founder Fê, at Macari Vineyards located in the North Fork of Long Island. Photo Credit: Renata Meirelles

Looking for some fun outdoor activities to check off your bucket list this summer?

If you’re a first timer in NYC, be sure to get lost in New York City’s Central Park, walk the High Line path, and experience the Hudson River Park.

But, after checking off these touristy spots, be sure to head to attractions like Domino Park in Williamsburg Brooklyn or the underrated The Met Cloisters in Inwood (at the very tip of Manhattan). They are a branch of the Metropolitan, showcasing medieval art in a French monastery overlooking the Hudson – the sunset is priceless!

And, of course, head upstate! The Hudson Valley is super exciting and full of incredible outdoor experiences. If you enjoy hiking, canoeing, biking, or just finding a remote spot with no visitors for a delicious picnic, plan your trip.

On the other hand, if you prefer the beach or enjoying a wine tasting, Long Island can be the perfect destination – from the secret Sag Harbor town to Macari Vineyards and , they have it all!

With so many exciting options, your summer adventure in NYC is sure to be unforgettable!

Sample amazing cuisine

Dining Frevo Restaurant Entrance Gallery
Frevo – 1 star Michelin restaurant hidden behind a painting in a gallery in the West Village.

If you’re a foodie, there’s no better place to be than in New York City! From classic American dishes like pizza and hot dogs, to mouthwatering international cuisine, the city has it all. You could spend a lifetime exploring all the amazing food spots in the Big Apple and still never try everything.

And with so many talented chefs creating unique twists on traditional dishes, you’re sure to find something new and exciting every time you venture out to eat. So why not embark on a culinary adventure and sample some of the best cuisine New York has to offer? Your taste buds will thank you!

We recommend restaurants like: Roberta’s Pizza in East Williamsburg, the traditional Nathan’s hotdog, the Mediterranean restaurant Lighthouse BK.

We also love Chinese Tuxedo in Chinatown and Frevo – a 1 star Michelin restaurant with a hidden entrance behind a painting in a tiny art gallery in the West Village!

New York with never let you down!

 

Visit iconic sites and landmarks

BTSNYC Experiences On Going Abandoned Ellis Island Hospital Tour

Now, these following spots are definitely NOT hidden gems, but just true New York Gems! They are all must-visit spots.

Exploring the iconic sites and landmarks of a new city can be an exhilarating experience.

When visiting New York City, taking a tour of the Statue of Liberty should be at the top of your list. This iconic landmark represents freedom, hope, and opportunity, making it the perfect symbol of what America stands for.

But, a true unique experience, stop at Ellis Island. They have a secret tour called Behind The Scenes Tour Of The Abandoned Ellis Island Hospital. There, you’ll visit an abandoned hospital, walk into what was once an autopsy room, visit a former contagious disease ward and access spots not opened to the general public! How cool is that!?

Alternatively, for a closer look at the Brooklyn Bridge, take a stroll across this piece of engineering history. As one of the oldest suspension bridges in the United States, it stands as a testament to human innovation and vision.

Regardless of which landmark you choose, both will leave you in awe of the immense greatness that can be achieved when humans work towards a common goal.


New York City offers a truly unique experience unlike any other. From Broadway shows to local street art and music, the city is filled with interesting things to do and see.

There are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy like jet skiing in the Hudson River or exploring Central Park. And, a wealth of delicious cuisine to try.

Don’t forget to check out some of the unique events! Continue following us to get stay tuned with the best off-the-beat-path spots, events and brands!


Photo Credit: Courtesy of the venues, Kim-Julie Hansen, Renata Meirelles and wirestock on Freepik

Boutique BK: A Private Dining Experience in Brooklyn

Dining Boutique BK Ginger Braised Short Ribs

Boutique BK is a private dining experience in Brooklyn, hosted by the Le Cordon Bleu trained Chef Matthew Ricketts. Uncover this hidden gem with your friends and have fun!

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Have you ever dreamt of a private dinner party? One where you’re away from the hustle and bustle of a crowded restaurant, with the joys of an unbelievable chef exclusively for you!

Or, maybe even a chef to cook (and clean!) during your home dinner party? Shhh, don’t tell your guests…

In walks Le Cordon Bleu trained Chef Matthew Ricketts and his private dining concept Boutique BK.

Nestled in the heart of Carroll Gardens in Brooklyn, Boutique BK is a private dining room available by reservation only, for parties 2-14 in size. The intimate setting, offers a curated multi-course dining experience, featuring elevated American fusion cuisine, and locally sourced food when possible.

Chef Matt, as he likes to be called, will personally work to craft menus tailored to guests’ tastes and event needs. He typically offers 3 or 5-course set menus, and can accommodate dietary restrictions within your party.

While reservations are required, this is no ordinary restaurant. In fact, it’s not a restaurant at all!

Picture a beautiful dining room, exclusively for you to enjoy, celebrate and watch Matt cook. There is a peak through to the kitchen from the dining room too! In addition to cooking, he hosts and serves as he walks you through your meal, oh-so-perfectly!

The addition of Boutique BK to Carroll Gardens, where your favorite old Italian staples live, is a welcomed complement to this beautiful neighborhood.

In addition to the dining room, this superstar chef is also available for private parties. He caters up to 150 guests at the venue of your choice.

Chef Matt hails from Pittsburgh originally, but has spent more than a decade around the country training with Michelin Star restaurants to hone his craft. He saw white space in the market for private dining and personalized experiences and decided to venture into this space.

His passion for food and unique service come through the second you connect with Chef Matt. It’s truly a one of a kind experience.

So run, don’t walk to Boutique BK – space is limited and it’s suggested to book in advance! This allows optimal time for space reservation and menu curation.

You can easily get to this hidden gem through the F train in Carroll Gardens, Brooklyn.

Location: 187 Sackett Street

www.boutiquebk.com


Photo Credits: Courtesy of Boutique BK and Drica Pinotti
*Last Update on Feb/2020.*

Day 2: Siemens NYC’s Hidden Technology – A Behind the Scenes Tour

Curiosities City Secrets Siemens BTSNYC Tour Arthur Ashe Stadium Retractable Ceiling

This was Day 2 with Siemens USA! We visited some of New York City’s major attractions to understand how Siemens actually helped build our beautiful city! So, tag along with me to explore what happened during the “Siemens NYC’s Hidden Technology – A Behind the Scenes Tour”!

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As you’ve probably noticed, after reading our Day 1 experience with Siemens, that I had a fantastic time at the “Siemens NYC’s Hidden Technology – A Behind the Scenes Tour”!

I always say that I’m not only extremely curious to learn historical facts about NYC, but I think it’s extremely amusing to understand how this amazing city operates and functions.

Siemens’ technology is literally scattered throughout the city of New York in places and world-famous landmark: from the Statue of Liberty, the subway system, the Amtrak and the beautiful World Trade Center Memorial Fountains, to the retractable ceilings at Arthur Ashe Stadium, the impeccable acoustics of Carnegie Hall and even, hidden within the top breweries in Brooklyn. The purpose? To make your NYC days eternally memorable and seamless experiences.

That said, let me start telling you about our Day 2 at Siemens “New York City’s Hidden Technology – A Behind the Scenes Tour”. If you thought that yesterday was cool, take a look below at where we went this time!

After a very early breakfast, starting at 7am at a hotel in FiDi, where me met the entire group, we hopped on the bus and headed to the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center, better known as the home of the US Open Tennis Championships that is actually happening now!


9am – USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center

I’m a huge tennis fan and even played when I was younger for a couple of years.

If you follow tennis, you’ve probably seen how many matches have been cancelled or delayed during the years, due to bad weather, right? Such a bummer!

Not only is this a hassle if you’re there watching and enjoying the match, but specially for the athletes that end up cooling down and getting distracted, to then have to go back to court.

The Arthur Ashe Stadium is the largest tennis stadium in the world, with retractable ceilings that have ended the bad weather problems.

Siemens worked with Morgan Automation Systems, part of the Morgan Engineering family of companies, a world leader in automation of extreme large mechanization projects, to make this project become a breathtaking reality!

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I listed some of the most curious facts that you should know about it, and that I thought were particularly interesting:

  • This ceiling is the largest structure in the world, over a tennis court, installed just earlier this year
  • The retractable ceilings are controlled and powered by Siemens
  • Each half of the roof weighs around 1 million pounds
  • The roof has 250ft long, each one being 125ft
  • It moves at approximately 25ft / minute. It opens within approximately 6 minutes 10 seconds and closes in approximately 5 minutes, 35 seconds. Why does it close faster? Well, when a storm suddenly pops in, they have to be quick to preserve a dry court, so the game continues.
  • Everything happens through the push of 1 single touchscreen button
  • It has the power to resist winds that reach 125mi/h
  • There is a team that is exclusively monitoring and controlling the air temperature and moisture
  • They have to be careful for not 1 single drop to fall on court
  • The Stadium is regulated to have the same temperature as the outside weather, so every player is performing under the same conditions
  • The stadium is used only 3 weeks during the entire year, with 4 yearly maintenances

Now, understand the Siemens cutting-edge automation technologies onsite:

  • The ceiling is powered and controlled by Siemens’ Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs)
  • The S120 Safety System is totally integrated
  • Easy to use with access comfort panels
  • These industrial equipment and systems can be seen not only in factories, but also throughout the entertainment world like: Cirque du Soleil stages, rides at Walt Disney World parks, shows in Las Vegas, the Orlando Eye 400-foot observation ferris wheel, and even Broadway shows.

12pm – Other Half Brewery

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It’s amazing how Siemens is literally spread throughout New York! What do I mean? Well, we had lunch and a great beer tasting experience at a brewery in Brooklyn called Other Half.

The place is amazing and the aroma of their beer is all over as soon as you walk in! They incentivize people to do the tour and learn about the entire brewing process.

In the case of breweries, Siemens’ technology is seen through different components that are inside other equipment. Their tech ranges from increasing efficiency in the overall process, to controlled bottling process and modeling & managing the complete workflow.

They have a few other breweries in Brooklyn using their systems, as well as most of the Coronas you’ll drink in the US! Cool right?


3pm – LO3 Energy

It’s literally hard to point out the highlight of these 2 amazing days, but I can say that LO3 was certainly a different experience.

What is LO3 Energy?  Well, they’re a pioneering blockchain startup that is changing the way we think about our electricity and how it works. Plus, we are seeing more and more, the importance of having our own data protected and encrypted. With their program, by creating and applying a token, it creates a business model that gives value to data. So, you can buy a key to unlock and also secure your data while directly managing the purchase of power.

In addition, it’s also great to see that the big shark companies like Google and Facebook are also now going 100% renewable, with wind and solar tiles.

People are literally starting to care about energy!

Where does Siemens come in? LO3 Energy is working with Siemens Digital Grid and Siemens’ startup financier next47, on the Brooklyn Microgrid project.

“In an energy market that is becoming increasingly distributed – whether based on wind, sun, water or biomass – intelligent grids are becoming increasingly important. Siemens microgrid technology is helping communities pioneer the movement toward a self-sufficient energy future.” (Siemens)

But wait! What is a microgrid? The correct, definition is: “a small network of electricity users with a local source of supply that is usually attached to a centralized national grid but is able to function independently.”

The purpose of a grid is to balance electricity: not too much, not too little.

The idea is for a community to be able to produce, consume and purchase power from within their own community. And, the cool thing is that people will be able to consume from a distributed energy supply system that draws on renewable-generated sources for a more resilient, customer-driven economy.

Being able to choose where to buy your energy from and be sustainable is now a reality!

You can also read more about LO3 Energy.


And, this wraps up these 2 amazing and truly surprising days of the Behind the Scenes Tour NYC where we explored New York through different lens.

It was extremely interesting to see and understand a bit of how the engine works behind the scenes to make our New York City function so properly and seamlessly, giving us locals – and also visitors – a priceless, memorable experience!

I can’t wait to see more about how Siemens technology is impacting our lives, without us even knowing!

Thank you Siemens, once again, for this breathtaking experience with endless interesting information!


Follow Siemens online:

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Hashtag: #SiemensInnovates


Photo Credits: ©Behind the Scenes NYC
#Sponsored

*Last Update on March/2020.*

New York Through The Eyes Of The Tech Entrepreneur: Graham Mann

Curiosities Insider Interviews Graham Mann by P_Nali

New York-based Tech Entrepreneur, Graham Mann, shared with us his 7 top tips in New York! Check out where the cool tech crowd hangs out!

Curiosities Insider Interviews Graham Mann by P_Nali

Graham Mann is cofounder of Lean Systems, a logistics startup with offices in New York and Montreal, a graduate of Techstars NYC, and recipient of the 2017 Startup Canada Young Entrepreneur award. He grew up in Nova Scotia, Canada, and did his undergrad degree in engineering at McGill University in Montreal.

He still leads the non-profit organization he founded, called Sail All, which provides sailing opportunities for youth in his home province of Nova Scotia, and mentors new entrepreneurs whenever he can, particularly for Founder Institute Montreal and Startup Weekend.

In his spare time you can usually find him on or near the water, sailing, windsurfing, or attempting surfing and kiteboarding, or out taking photos.

He writes regularly on his blog, and just launched a podcast called Starting Stories, where he interviews entrepreneurs, creatives, and more to talk about how they got started, and the habits and tools that led to their success.

Take a look at his 7 top tips in New York:


For Pizza: Lucali

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“I discovered Lucali through a cousin living nearby, and it’s known to locals for good reason: their pizza is delicious. They only serve pizza and calzones, and have different ingredients every day. It’s also BYOB – go to Henry Street Wine down the street for some super-friendly advice on which wines to get. Go early as there’s no reservations, and it’s cash only.”

Their first and only location in New York is Carroll Gardens, in Brooklyn. The restaurant is specialized in pizzas and calzones, but also offers appetizer salads and fresh sides. Their thin-crusted pizzas and home-made sauces are loved not only by their neighbors, but by guests that come from all over NYC. Hence, the house is always full, as Graham mentioned above.

If you’re into craft draft and bottled beers, they have a good selection, as well as a wine menu with low production Italian wines.

Who’s the mind behind this all? The pizzaiolo Mark Iacono and he also has a location in Miami.

Hours:
Monday – Thursday: 5pm – 12am
Friday – Sunday: 1pm – 12am

Location: 575 Henry Street

www.lucalibrooklyn.com


For Cocktails: Brooklyn Social Bar

Curiosities Insider Interviews Graham Mann Brooklyn Social Club

“After pizza and wine at Lucali, you can stop by Brooklyn Social Bar on your way back to the subway. The atmosphere is great, cocktails are delicious, and the bartenders are super friendly. Go on an off-night and get to know the bartenders.”

Located in Carroll Gardens, this spot was the former Society Riposto, a private member’s Sicilian Club. This group started back in the early 1900’s, and only in 1967 they actually rented out this spot.

They had private gatherings and parties led by Isidoro Parisi and his group of Italian friends.

After the memberships slowly dissolving throughout the years, 3 30-year old Brooklyn residents decided to purchase and renovate the place.

Many of the decorations are still the original ones with amazing, vintage pictures and ornaments, allowing it to keep its original vibe.

It’s surely a place that will take you back to the past, as in you entered another place on Earth.

Hours:
Sunday – Thursday: 5pm – 2am
Friday – Saturday: 5pm – 4am

Location: 335 Smith Street

http://brooklynsocialbar.com


For Those Interested In Travel: Voyager HQ

Curiosities Insider Interviews Graham Mann Voyager HQ

“For anyone interested in, working in, or looking for a job in travel, you should be hanging out at Voyager HQ. It’s where we work in New York, the staff are super friendly, and they hold lots of great events. If you’re interested in travel, you should be there.”

We have to agree! We love everything that VoyagerHQ does and we are there quite often!

The place is great and the crowd is perfect for networking. They say they are “A Club for Travel Innovators”, so if this at all calls your attention, you should pass by.

In addition, they host some pretty cool events from breakfasts with industry professionals, to pitch nights with fantastic start-ups urging to change the world!

Location: 137 West 25th Street

www.voyagerhq.com


To Escape the City (sort of): Roosevelt Island

Curiosities Insider Interviews Graham Mann Roosevelt Island Mc Gutty
Photo Credit: Mc_Gutty

“One of my college roommates grew up here, and I’ve spent quite a bit of time in Roosevelt Island. It’s right next to Manhattan, yet you’d never know it when you’re there, given how peaceful and quiet it is. Take the tram or subway there, go for a run, grab a coffee, or check out the beautiful new Cornell Tech campus.”

Yup, Roosevelt Island is a “life apart”, even though it’s nestled in the middle of the East River.

It’s a great place to go explore during the weekends!

If you have to pick a way to get there, we do recommend the tram. The journey will start with a spectacular view of Manhattan Island, Queens and the East River.

You’ll most certainly capture breathtaking Instagrammable shots!

The island has only one main street, called Main Street, ha, and a few additional side roads! But you can always walk towards the water through the path – that’s there the best views are.

If you’re the adventurous type, be sure to explore the Smallpox Hospital, also known as the Renwick Smallpox Hospital, in the Southern tip of the island.


Place to Take a Canadian: New York Islanders game

Curiosities Insider Interviews Graham Mann New York Islanders Hockey

“For Canadians, there’s no better way to spend an evening than at a hockey game, but given how popular it is in Canada, you’re lucky to get seats for a reasonable price. Take them to an Islanders game and they’ll love it, and for bonus points take them when they’re playing their favorite team.”

Canadians do love Hockey, but his is literally an activity for anyone that enjoys sports.

Moreover, if you or your friends have never been to a hockey game, we have to agreed you HAVE TO go to one.

Live hockey is definitely a thrilling experience and it’ll be a night of fun!

www.nhl.com/islanders


For Whisky: Caledonia Bar

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“I got more of a taste for scotch after spending two weeks traveling Scotland last spring, and Caledonia Bar has the best selection I’ve found in New York. The atmosphere is as good as the whisky selection, and it’s a great place to take a date.”

Caledonia Bar has two locations in Manhattan. One is in the Upper East Side and the other at the Upper West Side, of Manhattan.

They have a great drink list, a few food options that vary a bit in each location and, a fantastic list of House Rules!

Wanna know some of them?

  • Five percent off for Tinder dates, you need to prove it by showing us your initial awkward messages
  • No credit card minimum, but if you keep swiping your card all night you are wasting paper, killing trees and in the long run killing all of humanity you selfish bastard. Start a Tab!
  • Gentlemen, this is a lady friendly bar, if it’s clear that they are not interested in you then stop talking to them. Obviously this rule does not apply to me.

Ha! So fun! Anyway, enjoy your scotch night out!

Hours:
Upper West Side: Monday – Sunday: 4pm – 4am
Upper East Side: Monday – Thursday: 5pm – 4am and Friday – Sunday: 4pm – 4am

Locations:
424 Amsterdam Avenue, Upper West Side
1609 2nd Avenue, Upper East Side

www.caledoniabar.com


For Shopping: Everlane

Curiosities Insider Interviews Graham Mann Everlane NYC Store Interior
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“I generally try to avoid shopping in person as much as possible, but Everlane makes the experience enjoyable. I love that their simple, classic lines don’t overwhelm you with choice, and their commitment to ethical factories and transparent pricing make them a brand you can get behind. They currently only have two brick-and-mortar locations, and one is in New York.”

Located in the super cool neighborhood of Nolita, in Manhattan, Everlane believes in “Exceptional quality.
Ethical factories. Radical Transparency.” Totally up our alley!

Plus, their collections and products are timeless pieces that will be part of your wardrobe for a long time. How? Well, they source the finest materials and aren’t too focused on trends.

Oh! And still, they let the customer know exactly the true cost of materials, labor, transportation, taxes, etc…for the item they are purchasing. We love it!

They offer a complete line of products for men and women that believe, like them, that “we can all make a difference”.

Hours:
Monday – Saturday: 11am – 7pm
Sunday: 10am – 5pm

Location: 28 Prince Street

www.everlane.com


Thank you, Graham, for sharing these 7 top tips in New York! We are sure you will enjoy them all!

Finally, if you enjoyed this interview, we are positive you loved all the places that David Yarus, the Founder of the app JSwipe, shared with us! He listed 5 NYC spots that you’ve probably never been to! They are all surely worth the visit, so check them out!


Photo Credits: Courtesy of The Associated Press for the Washington’s Top News, Mc_Gutty, P_Nali and the venues
*Last Update on April/2020.*

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