Traipsing through the City on a particularly muggy day early last summer, it dawned on me that there are not many options for shoppers that need to catch their breath, tourists that NEED to get out of the middle of the sidewalk and study a map, and you and I, who just like to people-watch. You can find a cafe that has outdoor seating, depending on the weather and what neighborhood you happen to find yourself in, but then it's actually going to cost you something. I had visions of grandeur: me donating a slew of eclectic benches to the City of New York to make it the true walker's utopia. I feel like Hemmingway right now, boozy to the core and trying to impart some non compos mentis wisdom on you that feels almost forced.
New York City is a legion of walking stiffs--literally--and once in a while, it's nice to sit and find a place to reflect on the madness that is constantly heaped upon us. I once thought that there were not enough places for us Gothamites to sit and contemplate but, as a ride on The Dark Knight (my fixie) has shown me, NYC has a number of places that are fitting to take in the scenery...and don't cost a thing to do so. They show off the flair of their respective neighborhoods and all have personality. Have a look.
These are the original Hipster benches where, in the summer of 2007, it became more fashionable to sit and socialize into the tiny hours of the morning than to go to a bar or club. Leave it to the LES to set the bar high.
At this Thompson Street Chess Shop, you can buy or bring pieces and have an impromptu game outside on their cement table that doubles as a board.
I love this - very interesting and beautiful. I love your photos!
-Your biggest fan.