Entering Central Park through the Women’s Gate (72nd Street West), then following the sidewalk edged on either hand with benches where sitting idlers observe your passing, then between and under the Katsura Trees (which in the autumn smell of caramelized sugar) framing the pathway entrance to Strawberry Fields, you will encounter even more benches with many more idlers listening to buskers like The Meetles, all inspired by The Beatles and the lyrics of John Lennon. Of course, it was Yoko Ono who brought this shrine into being.
Central Park benches—apart from their comfort—are known for their commemorative plaques. Park lovers have embraced the idea to the degree that it is uncommon to find a bench without a plaque.
One such is on a bench in Strawberry Fields just beyond those Katsura Trees on your right hand, near where a first glimpse the Imagine mosaic is had.
It commemorates those who died in the World Trade Center collapse but what holds my attention is that it is dedicated by the citizens of the City of Liverpool.
Its presence invokes the powerful message that this Liverpool native who was murdered by an American using a handgun at the entrance to the Dakota Apartment across the street, wrote words that need to be considered by the nation that also experienced a murderous attack in 2001.
Point taken. The message is clear:
Imagine all the people
Living life in peace…
The nearby subway station holds large, inspiring mosaics also designed by Ono.
Find your way with 308 Insider Tips from our Local Spotters
Their prices are in keeping with the neighborhood: a plate of two eggs, two pancakes, 'home' fried potatoes and your choice of sausages or bacon, is $12.
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There are three houses not far from each other in NYC of three icons: James Dean, James Baldwin, and Dorothy Parker...
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"Heckscher Field" in Central Park, New York, is used for softball. Here you can see games played for the Broadway Show League. Celebrity stars may be seen.
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This sun soaked park bench is a destination neighborhood residents know, spending time there in observation. It’s one of the more fabulous NYC stages.
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Among its offerings are a $10 breakfast special and its enormous $15 lunchtime hamburger, a price unobtainable anywhere else within walking distance.
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"Monumental Women" has erected this monument in Central Park, NYC to especially important figures in the United States women's equality movement...
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"Der Krung" in Hell's Kitchen in New York City is by far my favorite Thai place around. One of the best things about it is the $9.75 lunch special...
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"Apthorp Cleaners" in NYC is different from the dozens of other neighborhood cleaners by its permanent but ever-changing window display of Barbie dolls...
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Taco toppings include cheese (Cotijam, oaxaca and mozzarella), pineapple, jalapeños and pico de gallo. Norteñas & Cubanos sandwiches are not to be missed.
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"Dinastia" is a great Cuban-Chinese restaurant in New York City. They definitely make soul food here. Consider the squid and rice: it's always good...
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"Studio Museum in Harlem" in New York focuses on local, national and international artists of African descent and other work inspired by black culture...
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Its bright neon sign is easy to spot. Stand Up NY feels like a proper theater as it has a street-level entrance and the programming is mad extensive,
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308 Insider Tips from our local Spotters
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