When I first moved to New York City, the amount of people shocked me. I’m introverted, and between the roommates, the crowded streets, and the even worse subways, I never got any alone time. It wasn’t long before the city exhausted me and I found myself in serious need of some time to recharge.
Living in New York gets hectic fast. When you’re always surrounded by people, the urge to spend some time alone strikes even the most social among us. Finding a place to enjoy some solitude isn’t easy in a city known for its dense population and busy lifestyle. Unless you know where to look…
Wave Hill
The best way to escape the city is to go to a public garden. Wave Hill is a cultural center in the city that can provide just such an oasis. Whether you’re going to check out one of their fun events or just wander through the garden, it’s a great place to spend some time alone.
New York Botanical Garden
Pretty gardens, peaceful atmosphere, solitary enjoyment. What more do you need? The New York Botanical Garden combines these elements for a perfect afternoon alone.Check out what seasonal gardens are best at the moment on their website and go for a solitary stroll. You’re sure to feel peaceful and happy when you get back.
Poet’s House
Poetry is best enjoyed in solitude. Reading beautiful verse and indulging in quiet, introspective thought is a fantastic me-time activity. Poet’s House is a great place to bring a coffee and go into a more poetic world for a while.
The Cloisters
Museums are a great place to get away from the world for a while, and NYC has plenty of those. Instead of going to the Met, try its less-visited branch, the Cloisters. It can be a hike to get there, but that means fewer visitors there. Enjoy the beautiful surroundings while you learn about Medieval art. After you go through the museum, which is relatively small, stop by their café to relax and enjoy your last moments of solitude.
It’s easy to lose yourself in the crowd, and taking some time alone is the best way to recharge.
Movie Theater Matinee
Going to the movies is a fun evening activity, but if you’re aiming to enjoy the movie alone, it’s best to go earlier on. That way, you’ll avoid the crowds. Get some snacks, settle in, and enjoy the film without any distractions. Afterwards, you can have a moment to think about the movie and formulate your own thoughts and opinions.
Le Pain Quotidian
Eating alone in the high school cafeteria might’ve been social hell, but a meal alone can do wonders. Between the people watching and the chance to enjoy your food in peace, a restaurant is the perfect place to recharge. Le Pain Quotidian is a great place to stop for tea or settle in for a full meal — and all their food is healthy and organic. The traditional communal table, central to all their locations, is a great choice for those of us who like eating alone, in company.
Meow Parlour
Want to spend some time alone without getting lonely? If you love recharging your batteries by cuddling with a few furry friends, Meow Parlour is the place for you. It’s best to make a reservation (so this is one solitary outing you might want to plan ahead of time), but it’s totally worth the wait. You can wander in for a half hour to enjoy some cuddle time, or settle down for a longer stay with a pastry, free Wi-Fi connection, and, of course, cats!
Petting cats is known to reduce stress, so I know where I’ll be headed next time I have a tough final ahead of me. There’s nothing like being alone in a room full of cats to really relax and recharge.
So, the next time NYC overwhelms you, take a break and recharge alone. It’s easy to feel lost in a city of 8 million people, but taking some time alone is a good way to find yourself again.
NYC definitely does start to feel cramped after a few years of living here. Thanks for the well thought out resource — I’m going to keep it bookmarked and go to some of these places the next time I feel claustrophobic.