by Wendy Giman, 12/18/2013
Brooklyn Botanic Garden photo by Keith Telfeyan • Bartow-Pell Mansion Museum photo by Joe Buglewicz
New York City is truly the city that never sleeps, offering a constant stream of round-the-clock activities for every interest. (Feel like eating dinner, buying an iPad or pumping iron at 3am? We've got you covered.) The frenetic pace is admittedly a source of local pride, but—less admittedly—it can occasionally be a source of exhaustion. Sometimes you need a place to slow down, reflect and recharge, particularly during the holiday season—and finding one is easier than you might think. Within this urban jungle of splendid skyscrapers and endless sidewalks, pockets of greenery and waterworks delight the eyes and ears while relaxing our weary bodies. Discovery and learning often go hand in hand with quiet, thoughtful time. Read on to find out more about these urban oases—many of which are free or low cost—throughout the five boroughs.