Lorna Bo

brilliant zoo and a must-see (especially if you have kids)! easy to walk around, well signed, lots of indoor exhibits too with air con which was much appreciated on a hot day. we managed to catch the bird meet and greet as well which was v informative (check the website for events) and we were allowed to stroke one of the owls. overall highlights were the pandas and elephants!

as a BBC (British born Chinese) this place was like a beacon drawing me to it. so glad I went - the exhibition they have on the history of Chinese oppression and culture in America is so well curated and presented. I found myself surprisingly moved - definitely recommend any Asians passing through NYC to check it out!!

lovely place to wander around in - reminded me of a very downsized Kew Gardens from back in London. also has an interesting exhibition in the greenhouse about agriculture and its relationship to culture. sadly had to leave early because of the tornado warning (!) but hopefully I'll get a chance to return.

a slightly kitsch place which currently has objects on display relating to climate chance and the anthropocene. a fun detour but perhaps not worth going out of your way to check out

adorable and docile cats who are all up for adoption! lots of comfy space for the cats to play and explore although no actual café seating in the cat area. I've been to 3 cat cafés in London and this one had some of the most chill cats I've seen. however all the food and drinks were quite expensive ($9.50 for a pot of tea!) and none of it was included in the entry price so didn't get any. go on a Wednesday for $5 discount, and try and go either morning or late afternoon/evening when the cats are most active.