I like options. Options are good. I moved to New York because I wanted a new place to go everyday, but sometimes the endless supply of places to eat, drink, and see are overwhelming. As in I’ll spend all day researching places to go, only to end up watching three episodes of House of Cards by myself because I can’t pick a place. No bueno. So I scoured the Internet for foolproof “what-the-heck-am-I-going-to-do-today” websites, and this week and next week I’m sharing my favorites with you lemon ladies.
Oh, Time Out New York. You were my first. This weekly magazine, website, and app is my go-to for fun, offbeat, and (usually) cheap activities. They cover food and drink, shopping and style, art, books, comedy, dance, film, gay and lesbian events, music, nightlife, and theatre in 100 pages or less, and its content is easily organized so you can decide what to do on the fly. Need a last minute cool date idea on Tuesday, June 4th? Flip to the “Best by Day” section, and ponder whether to meet your special someone for free stargazing on the High Line, or attend the 8th Annual Taste of LIC. You no longer have an excuse to be bored any day of the week.
If you don’t want to fork over the $19.97 for the magazine, you’re still in luck; TONY’s website is chock-full of content. New to your neighborhood or want to do a bit exploring? Check out its neighborhood guides to find out the best places to eat, eat for cheap, brunch, drink, shop, or party. It’s like having your own personal tour guide in your smartphone, and you’ll impress your friends with your in-the-know recommendations.
I also like TONY’s restaurant guides that list the best restaurants by almost every type of cuisine imaginable. (If Caesar salads are your thing, talk to me after you’ve tried their top 10 recommendations.) The website categorizes the ever-growing list of New York restaurants into bite size pieces so you don’t get a stomach ache trying to pick a place, and it offers great suggestions for affordable group dinnersand dinner dates for less than $50.
And since I’m talking about food, (ok when am I not talking about food?) try their app when you’re out and about and need a list of TONY approved restaurants nearby. Or if you’re not hungry, get inspired by their random generator of things to do. TONY is seriously an adventurous gal’s best friend.
If you’re not in New York, or North America for that matter, don’t fret; the Time Out empire covers all parts of the globe. Let me know if you’ve tasted, drank, or seen something cool because of TONY, I love a good story. Now go out, and explore!
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