July 5, 2012

July MBF Picks

As things heat up around New York, the best way to survive the sizzling temperatures is to keep things cool and cultured. From theater to dance to art, music festivals, and of course food, there is always something going on, especially during the sunny months! With summer hours kicking in and our casual wardrobes taking over, our July MBF Picks features a list of must-have fun for 2012.

photo via The Epoch Times

While museums like The Met and MOMA always have some interesting exhibitions going on, why not get outside and check out some art in the parks? One of our favorites is "A View from the Lunch Table: Students Bringing Issues to the Table," where middle school students have created colorful works of art that expose community-wide social issues on lunchroom tables at parks and playgrounds throughout the five boroughs. For more outdoor exhibitions throughout the city, check out a detailed list here!


Have you ever wanted to learn to dance? Well now’s your chance! Lincoln Center's Midsummer Night Swing lasts until July 14th! Each evening begins with an hour dance lesson followed by live music in everything from swing, salsa, tango, jazz, soul, even rock'n'roll! This party is sure to teach you some moves and have you dancing down the street in no time!


While this summer, most of New York will be at outdoor movie screenings at parks around the city, why not do something a little more underground? Showing more than 200 films, Rooftop Films is a festival that brings you independent shorts and features at unique venues like the roof of The Old American Can Factory or the beach at Coney Island. The screenings range from drama to comedy, fiction, animation, and documentaries and most include a Q&A with the filmmaker.

photo via Marina 59

Speaking of new and unique, how about spending a night on a floating hotel! Part art and sound installation, part scenic ocean getaway, the Boatel Project has retired sixteen boats "to create worlds within worlds." Located down on Marina 59 in Far Rockaway, the floating installations are only an A train ride away and you can have your pick at a range of themes including the intergalactic Bad Irene, Queen Zenobia, sweetheart Ms. Nancy Boggs, Sea Wolf, Charlie's Angels, and of course one entitled New York, NY.


If rocking back and forth on the ocean in an art installation isn't really your thing, there's always the Wythe Hotel in Williamsburg. With industrial charm and decorated with locally made furniture, custom wallpaper, and timber ceilings, this old factory turned boutique hotel embodies everything modern Brooklyn represents. At the top of the hotel stands The Ides, a fabulous rooftop bar showcasing a spectacular view of the skyline, an enchanting terrace, and tasty cocktails. Sitting directly across from Brooklyn Bowl, the hotel's ambience is alluring to the rock'n'roll crowd as well as a plentitude of Brooklynites alike.

photo via Refinery 29

It wouldn't be summer without the perfect cocktail and the Tribeca go-to restaurant, Marc Forgione has it! It's called the Scorpion Bowl and it's 11 ounces of alcoholic goodness that combines vodka, gin, and rum into one super strong, $49 tiki themed goblet. If you are up for the challenge, we're sure it will bring you a dangerously delicious evening! Make sure you stick around to try the Michelin starred restaurant's menu as well!

photo via ft.com

Of course with summer here, you may be looking for something more active to do. Our suggestion is to grab a bike and go! There's been a major biking boom recently and believe it or not fashion brands like Hermes, Lacoste, Dolce & Gabbana, Urban Outfitters, and even Chanel have moved onto the scene to give you the perfect combination of designer clothing and a stylish ride! Not only does the season last from spring to fall, but it's a fabulous way to see the city, have fun, and get a workout in the process! Some of our favorite spots to go for a ride are Roosevelt Island, the Brooklyn Bridge, Prospect Park, and of course the Central Park Loop. If that's not your activity of choice, there's always kayaking on the Hudsonopen air yoga in the park, or simply strolling through Brooklyn Flea for some special finds! Whatever it may be, get out there, enjoy the weather, and have yourself a perfect summer! 

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