Manhattan

Welcome to part two of our “walk in your favorite NYC characters’ footsteps” series, where we give you the deets on popular TV show hangouts. We think it’s a fun way to spend an afternoon — or even a day — and potentially makes for a great date idea. You’ll also score brownie points with out-of-towners coming to visit you, especially if they’re major fans of any of the shows below.

Sex and the City

It’s a no brainer to include this popular TV show. I mean, it probably gets at least partial credit for making people think of NYC as such a sexy and cosmopolitan place.

Carrie, Samantha, Miranda and Charlotte were all over the big apple, but so many of their hot spots were in Manhattan itself. Now, there are plenty of guided tours you can sign up for that may be of interest. For example, On Location Tours does a great one that includes stops at over 40 locations, and we imagine it’d be a lot of fun to pal around with other SATC fans on a tour bus.

If you’re more of an individualist or prefer to set your own pace, a self-guided walking tour may be more your thang. We like this one by FreeToursByFoot, which does a nice job of highlighting some of those favorite SATC moments.

For example, you could start at the flagship Tiffany and Co. (727 Fifth Avenue, between 56th and 57th St.), where Trey re-proses to Charlotte. And speaking of nuptials, hop on over to the gorgeous NYC Public Library (Fifth Avenue and 42nd St.), which is where Mr. Big and Carrie planned to get hitched. You can also pay homage to Carrie via a little shoe shopping at none other than Manolo Blahnik (31 W 54th St, between 5th and 6th Avenues).

Seinfeld

So Seinfeld was technically filmed in California, but the show itself was set in New York City, which is where you can find a lot of the TV show’s famous landmarks.

The number one must-hit spot, of course, is Monk’s Cafe, where Elaine, Jerry, George and Kramer spent way too much of their time. The cafe itself isn’t real, but the exterior of Tom’s Restaurant (2880 Broadway) is the filmed facade.

A second contender for where the crew spends most of their time is at Jerry’s Apartment, located at 129 West 81st Street, Apartment 5A. The outside of the apartment was actually filmed in Los Angeles, but it’s still cool to go to the location. Elaine’s apartment is located near Central Park at 447 Central Park West.

Two additional places you can venture to that are completely real (unlike Monk’s), is Kramer’s H&H Bagels (1551 2nd Ave), where he went on strike, or you could nab one of his favorite hot dogs at Gray’s Papaya (2090 Broadway), which is called “Papaya King” in the series.

If hot dogs and bagels aren’t your thing (I mean, they’re so New York, but we won’t judge you), perhaps you could slurp up some soup at Mendy’s (61 E 34th St) . This post by HuffPo has some other places you can visit.

Friends

This list would be so remiss without Friends. Like SATC, there’s a guided tour you can take with On Location Tours, which makes everything super easy for you. Note that Friends was filmed in California, but many of the exterior shots were filmed in NYC to keep that Big Apple vibe.

For those who prefer to do a self-guided tour, we’ve got your back. We recommend started at Pulitzer Fountain in Central Park (Grand Army Plaza at 59th Street and Fifth Avenue), which you’ll recognize from the opening credits. While this wasn’t the actual shooting location, the California fountain it was shot in is a replica of the original.

We’re bummed to inform you that Central Perk, the coffee shop where Joey, Monica, Chandler, Phoebe and Rachel spent a lot of time, isn’t real. They actually created a pop up shop, which closed in about a year’s time. Don’t fret, though. You can stop by the Solow Building (9 W 57th St #45), where Chandler worked, or hit up Lucille Lortel Theater (121 Christopher St), where Joey put on an off-Broadway performance.

Another cool spot to hit up is the Corner of Bedford and Grove, which is the apartment building where all six characters dwelled.

Stay tuned for part three of the series!

By Wendy Rose Gould

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Sometimes, I look at my two sultry felines and think to myself, “Wow. They really have it made.” And sometimes, just sometimes, I get a wee bit envious of their lavish catnaps on the fuzzy sheepskin rug in my bedroom, or the fact that they get free, organic food three times a day without having to lift a finger (or would that be paw?).

I’m getting off topic. Kind of. Only because instead of discussing cats, I’m writing today to talk to you about dogs. One dog, actually. A New York City poodle who goes by the name, “Charlie Girl.” This fabulous pooch lives an enviable life, as well, and is portrayed by her owner Elizabeth Frogel in her new, dynamic book, “Charlie Girl: Tails of a Very Original Poodle.” (Would that make her a VOP?)

The deluxe, illustrated book covers all the NYC shenanigans of a “lovable, curious and life-of-the-party poodle.” And yes — Charlie Girl is a real life dog whose owners are author Elizabeth and Elizabeth’s 10-year-old daughter Ava. Together, they live as a happy family in the Upper West Side art deco architectural icon, The Century.

A Little More About the Book:

Recalling the day Elizabeth brought her weeks-old puppy home to New York City, she beams, “During the ride back to town from the breeder, Charlie Girl was completely quiet and just nuzzled in my arms, but the minute we arrived in the City, she sat straight up and had this magical transformation. She was mesmerized by the lights. And she looked right into my eyes and smiled. I knew at that moment Charlie Girl would love New York and that we would have a great life together.”

Today (and in the book), Charlie Girl takes advantage of all the fun her glamorous city has to offer. From long sidewalk strolls with mom, frolicking with her puppy pals, going shopping, dining on delicious food, and taking in art exhibits, Charlie Girl is one happy canine.

The stylish watercolor illustrations by Ashley Quigg are inspired by the décor of Elizabeth’s apartment, historic and contemporary photographs.

A Little More About Elizabeth:

Elizabeth’s accomplishments were propelled by what she describes as “survival mode.” Divorce turned her life upside down, as it does with most people, but there was no self pity, only forward movement. She took charge and committed heart and soul to creating what is now the happiest time of her life.

Divorce allowed Elizabeth to live at her authentic best, and with encouragement from her family and a loyal group of strong friends, Elizabeth’s life started to shine like the Chrysler Building. Charlie Girl evolved out of sheer love. During the emotionally charged years when Elizabeth was trying to conceive a child, she developed her special bond with Charlie Girl, who served as a constant companion and partner in NYC adventures. Charlie Girl the book captures the essence of that pinnacle time.

Where to Buy:

Head to Bergorf-Goodman (who happens to be a character in the book, as well) if you’re interested in flipping through the pages or buying. Bergorf-Goodman is the exclusive NYC department store carrying Charlie Girl.

Not lucky enough to live near NYC’s Bergdorf-Goodman? The book is also available online at Amazon.com.

Charlie Girl supports the Puccini Foundation, which is dedicated to the hope of a future for pets and people – cancer free under one umbrella.

I love the concept of the Charlie Girl book because it’s lighthearted and breezy. I think we all need more lighthearted and breezy things in our lives, especially in a world where urgent deadlines reign supreme and coffee is gulped down for its caffeine properties (instead of enjoyed for its smooth textures and rich aromas. Hey, I’m a coffee and an animal person).

By Wendy Rose Gould

Even though NYC is a major tourist destination, many locals find themselves eager to skip town and explore the rest of the world instead of hanging out in the city. There’s no shame in that, of course — the world is a place to be seen! With that said, though, it’s easy to forget — or ignore the fact that — the big apple is a culture mecca loaded with enough hotspots, events and must-sees to keep you busy year round.

Summer, naturally, is an ideal time to get out and do things in the city with best friends, lovers, family members or even by yourself. We’ve rounded up a list of our favorite, Manhattan-based summer 2012 activities that are all absolutely free.

New York Philharmonic Concerts in The Parks Gorgeous music amidst the greenery? It doesn’t get any more perfect than that. Haul yourself out of your abode and take advantage of the New York Philharmonic’s 47th season of Concerts in the Park. The Philharmonic will perform in Manhattan at Central Park on Friday, July 13 and Monday, July 16 at 8 p.m.
River to River Festival The River to River Festival is an annual event that boasts over 25 indoor and outdoor productions throughout Lower Manhattan and Governor’s Island. From theater to dance to visual art to film and music, there’s a little something for everyone. One of this summer’s most anticipated and talked about events for the River to River Festival is composer Julian Wachner’s “Inverted Sky,” a kite show that takes place in Rockefeller Park on July 2. Events, locations and times vary, so check the events schedule.
Metropolitan Opera’s Five Borough Recital Series One of NYC’s most treasured summer traditions is the Met’s Summer Recital Series, free to the public. This year’s series includes six performances that’ll take place in parks across all five of the city’s boroughs. It all kicks off with the Wednesday, July 25 concert in Central Park at 8 p.m., which features soprano Danielle de Niese, bass-baritone John Del Carlo and tenor Dimitri Pittas. The second Manhattan performance will take place at Jackie Robinson Park on Tuesday, August 7 at 7 p.m.
Oval Lawn Series and Mad. Sq. Kids at Madison Square Park Celebrate the 10th anniversary of The Madison’s Square Park Conservancy’s free outdoor concerts this year by attending at least one of them. Great for both children and adults, this year’s series includes jazz, blue grass and soul performances featuring acclaimed artists. The Oval Lawn Series events take place every Wednesday evening now through August 8 (times vary) and the Mad. Sq. Kids series occur Tuesday and Thursday mornings at 10:30 a.m. through August 9.
Weekend Walks The Department of Transportation has joined forces with various community ensembles to host a variety of family-friendly activities that include everything from music performances to arts/crafts, classes to youth programming and beyond. The goal is to promote healthy, safe and fun recreation for families. This year, 18 community groups have planned their respective weekends that’ll take place now through October. Visit NYC.Gov or call 311 for more information.
NYC Parks Summer Movie Series Pop some popcorn, a partner and saunter over to one of your local parks to partake in an outdoor viewing of film favorites. The Summer Movie Series will host events in various boroughs. Manhattan viewings include: – The Wizard of Oz: July 2,  5 p.m. @ Bryant Park – On The Waterfront: July 9, 5 p.m. @ Bryant Park – Hoodwinked Too: July 11, 8 p.m. @ Alfred E. Smith Park – Cinema Paradiso: July 11, 8:30 p.m. @ Pier I in Riverside Park South – Kung Fu Panda 2: July 13, 8:30 p.m. @ Pier 46 – Persepolis: July 13, 8:30 p.m. @ Pier I in Riverside Park South – Roman Holiday: July 16, 5 p.m. @ Bryant Park
– Flying Scotsman: July 18, 8:30 p.m. @ Pier I in Riverside Park South – The Muppets (2011): July 20, 8 p.m. @ Bellevue South Park – Superman, The Movie: July 20, 8:30 p.m. @ Pier 46 – The Maltese Falcon: July 23, 5 p.m. @ Bryant Park – Quicksilver: July 25, 8:30 p.m. @ Pier I in Riverside Park South – Hop: July 25, 8 p.m. @ J. Hood Wright Park – Hugo: July 27, 8:30 p.m. @ Pier 46 – Rebel Without A Cause: July 30, 5 p.m. @ Bryant Park – Amelie: August 1, 8:30 p.m. @ Pier I in Riverside Park South – Puss in Boots: August 3, 8:30 p.m. @ Pier 46 – The Adventures of Robinhood: August 6, 5 p.m. @ Bryant Park – The Smurfs: August 8, 8 p.m. @ Hamilton Fish Recreation Center – Pee Wee’s Big Adventure: August 8, 8:30 p.m. @ Pier I in Riverside Park South – Dolphin Tale: August 10, 8 p.m. @ Bellevue South Park – Rango: August 10, 8:30 p.m. @ Pier 46 – All About Even: August 13, 5 p.m. @ Bryant Park – Triplets of Bellville: August 15, 8 p.m. @ Pier I in Riverside Park South – Back to the Future: August 17, 8:30 p.m. @ Pier 46 – Hoodwinked Too: August 18, 8 p.m. @ J. Hood Wright Park – Raiders of the Lost Ark: August 20, 5 p.m. @ Bryant Park – The Smurfs: August 24, 8:30 p.m. @ Pier 46 – Jules and Jim: September 6, 8:30 p.m. @ Low Memorial Library, Columbia University

By Wendy Rose Gould