Amidst the hustle and bustle of city life, everyone has a happy place where their mind feels most at peace and most content. Whether it’s a physical spot or something more abstract, we were curious to know where Secret NYC readers go to find that beloved retreat. So we teamed up with Chips Ahoy! and asked a simple yet profound question: Where is your happy place? Here are the top seven answers, courtesy of you!
1. Central Park
The majority of Secret NYC readers named Central Park as their happy place, and we couldn’t agree more. The nearly 850-acre greenspace is an obvious answer for both NYC locals and tourists, with an abundance of year-round activities for people of all ages to enjoy. This summer you’ll find things to do from rowboating to concerts and much more, many of which are completely free!
2. Tompkins Square Park
Spanning over ten acres is the cherished East Village happy place that is Tompkins Square Park. Lush greenery and shaded pathways provide respite from the bustling city streets, while designated dog runs are a popular hangout for dog owners and enthusiasts alike (speaking of which, read about the park’s annual Halloween Dog Parade here). In the summertime, Tompkins Square Park buzzes with energy through outdoor concerts and community gatherings – keep an eye out for upcoming events!
3. NYC’s many carousels
Carousels hold a timeless appeal that Secret NYC readers can’t seem to get enough of, with Jane’s Carousel in Brooklyn and the Battery Park Seaglass Carousel both earning respective shoutouts. But across all five boroughs, NYC boasts 14 iconic carousels! Transport yourself to a bygone era of whimsy and charm by paying a visit to any of these delightful rides, if you haven’t already.
4. With your S.O.
Cue the “Awws”! An overwhelming number of you said your happy place is anywhere with your sweetheart, so we’ll just leave you with this list of the best date ideas in NYC this season.
5. The Met Cloisters
Washington Heights’ Fort Tryon Park is home to the Met Cloisters, an exquisite collection of Medieval European art and architecture. With over 5,000 masterpieces ranging from tapestries to illuminated manuscripts, visitors are sure to encounter a sense of tranquility while wandering through the museum’s cloisters and gardens. It’s no wonder this immersive gem is considered a happy place for city dwellers.
6. The bodega
The bodega is an NYC daily essential and a happy place for all walks of life. In a city where it’s easy to get lost in the shuffle, the bodega is always there to foster community and convenience. Your bodega guy knows your order by heart and the cat is practically a celebrity. Plus, where else can you reach for a sweet treat at 3 a.m.? When we need to satisfy our sweet tooth here at Secret NYC, our go-to bodega snack is of course none other than a pack of Chips Ahoy! cookies!
7. Anywhere with cookies
Sometimes it’s the simple pleasures that help us find our happy place. And for several readers, that pleasure is as simple as the joy of biting into a delicious cookie. Life itself can be so unpredictable, but Chips Ahoy! cookies offer a comforting escape from the daily grind. Whether you’re navigating the city streets or enjoying a cozy moment at home, find your favorite Chips Ahoy! flavors at your bodega or have them delivered right to your door with Gopuff!