Jayne D.

Dial 7 Car and Limo Service

This is a great service when you want to avoid the hassle of calling a cab or worse... Waiting on line for a cab at the airport. The drivers tend to be nicer than cabbies and are much more helpful in terms of luggage assistance. A bonus is getting coupons in the mail that give out great discounts!

Reproductions

This is the MAIN place where actors can get reproductions of their headshots. You might find a cheaper deal elsewhere, but the quality is not the same. The people are trained and know exactly what they're doing. The only down side is if you're in a rush for headshots during the peak season. You'll have to get there ahead in time to avoid the chaos.

Monk Thrift

This is thrift shop feels like the bedroom of a friend who just collects everything... And I mean... Everything! I bought a pair of great Western boots for less than $40! Granted, you have to do a bit of searching but looking through the things they have is half the fun!

Chelsea Market

The Chelsea Market makes you believe you're not in New York anymore. You feel as though you're in Italy, Prague, London! It's an enormous garage-esque space with everything you can imagine. Bakeries, Hale & Hearty, Florists, etc. It's a great spot to hit if you're planning on having a dinner party and just want to make one stop to do all your shopping.

Angelika Film Ctr & Cafe

Angelika is "cool". It was one of the first theatres in NYC that showcased true indie and foreign flicks. There's a huge lobby with a cafe where you can wait for friends as your film is being announced. The theatres downstairs are small and uncomfortable. And of course, occassionally hear and feel the subway rumble. Though the noise and lack of comfort is more of a charm rather than a nuisance.

Commodities East

This is a great small neighborhood health food store. The prices are reasonable - particularily for soy milk. The best part is the pre-packaged foods.

Madison Finance Corporation

There is a location on 12th & 3rd as well. This is an Asian (mainly Korean) market that sells all sorts of yummy pre-made "ban chan", frozen foods, fresh fruits and vegetables. There is also a dumpling/noodle/sushi shop within the grocery store where you can order lunch and eat at the tables provided.

Astor Wines & Spirits

This is like the uber store for wine and liquor lovers. Everything is neat and organized, the people are helpful yet you're more than welcome to browse at your own pace. Definately check out the wine tastings!

Rockefeller Center Ice Skating

I've never actually gone ice skating, but I've been to the tree lighting and have walked by numerous times. It is still amazing to look at - particularily during the Christmas season. It's a great place to take visitors, as well as, a great place to visit as a New Yorker. Romantic and beautiful.

PROS:
CONS: Crowded

N Y City of Department of Parks & Recreation

Central Park is the host of Summer Stage. Every summer, there are FREE concerts by various artists at the outdoor stage. It's just one of the many free events in the summer. The stage is great, the sound is clear and did I mention it's FREE! Just get there ahead of time to assure a space near the stage.