Jersey City Historic Italian District.

Jersey City’s Little Italy: The Village.

Welcome to Jersey City’s collection of well preserved early 19th century buildings and historic houses of worship. The Village was once known as Jersey City’s Little Italy, and while it may not be the center of vibrant culture it once was, its roots can still be felt today!

The neighborhood is also lined with quite a few historic buildings including the oldest polish speaking parish in New Jersey.

The majority of The Village’s development came at the hands of Polish immigrants, building many of the churches in the neighborhood. The Village constructed many of its buildings during the early 20th century such as; the St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church, and White Eagle Hall. Ownership of both the hall and the church would eventually be transferred over once Italian immigrants began to move into the neighborhood.

Many of the neighborhoods immigrants came in from Port Jersey who settled down in The Village in the hopes of a better life. For a while, the neighborhood was considered Jersey City’s Little Italy, being lined with shops operated by Italian families.

Sadly, the end of World War II began a trend of many Italians moving into suburbia, causing the neighborhood to be dormant from the 50’s until the 2000’s.

Are there Restaurants in The Village, Jersey City?

The Village is still home to a large collection of great restaurants offering exquisite dining for those visiting. Today the neighborhood is home to more than just fantastic Italian dining. The Village also features Hawaiian, Indian, and even traditional Mexican food!

The Village also has a good abundance of cafe’s and brunch spots in the neighborhood. Whether you’re looking for a breakfast spot or want to experience a chocolate shop, you’ll find what you’re looking for during your visit.

The Village even has its own bakery and even a hamburger spot!

What is there to do in The Village, Jersey City?

The Village may not be home to the shopping offered by Newport but it’s still home to few shoe shops, clothing stores, and even crystal shops! If you take a walk down the neighborhood you’ll also notice a large amount of beauty and spa centers, this makes The Village a great spot to visit if you’re trying to get out of the city during your vacation.

The Village also features a few record stores and even a skateboard shop!

You can also enjoy concerts and events at one of The Village’s historic venues, White Eagle Hall.

The Village is packed with activities; from spa treatments, to music venues, the neighborhood has quickly become a must visit. The only question on your mind, other than where to start, should be how to get to The Village, luckily New Jersey is filled limo and car service’s for anyone wanting to take a taxi down to The Village.

New Jersey’s collection of black car service’s offer the perfect experience for those taking a tour of The Village.

This may leave you with one lingering question.

What are the rates for a limo or car service to or from The Village?

Prices for a limo or car service to or from The Village vary depending on where you are booking from, general prices are as follows.

Vehicle TypeJersey City – The VillageBayonne – The VillageWest New York – The VillageManhattan – The VillageNewark – The Village
LUX Sedan$108.59$126.90$130.97$134.97$136.56
LUX SUV 6$124.56$147.82$152.99$158.07$160.09
LUX SUV 7$135.04$160.78$166.50$172.12$174.36
Premium SUV$217.56$217.56$217.56$217.56$217.56
Prices will vary depending on specific locations.

Who has the best rates for a limo or car service to or from The Village?

The best prices for a limo or car service to The Village are held by My Destiny Limo and are as follows.

Vehicle TypeJersey City – The VillageBayonne – The VillageWest New York – The VillageManhattan – The VillageNewark – The Village
Private Shuttle$72.67$86.28$89.31$92.28$93.46
Prices will vary depending on specific locations.

The Village is a fantastic spot for anyone on vacation looking to kickback and enjoy some great dining. Whether you’re staying with family in Jersey City or a hotel in Manhattan you’ll find that a visit to The Village is always a great choice. Today New Jersey is packed with taxi services ready to take you wherever you please.

We recommend My Destiny Limo, their combination of luxury vehicles and professional chauffeurs offer the perfect experience, so book today!

The Tri-State Resort, Atlantic City.

Atlantic City: The East Coast’s Number One Vacation Point.

Planning a vacation can be fun but often times it may lead you to some of the same locations; Nashville, Miami, Las Vegas, maybe even Hollywood but might we point your attention towards New Jersey. While not primarily thought of when planning a get away Atlantic City has grown in popularity over time. Today, its seen as a primary destination among Tri-State area residents who visit their variety of casinos and hotels quite often.

The name Atlantic City was given to the resort town in 1853 soon after developers quickly moved into the area in hopes of building up the city hastily.

Atlantic City has been one the East Coast’s main vacation spots for a long time. The city is packed with restaurants, resorts, casinos, beaches, hotels, and so much more!

Today the town is home to just under 40,000 people and is a popular hotspot for tourist and vacationers alike.

Developers at the time wanted to open up to the public as soon as possible. The first hotel in Atlantic City would go up in the same year it was conceived, the building wasn’t even completed when it opened its doors to visitors. The next year transit would become available to the public, tolls would be built on the main roads and soon Atlantic City would explode in popularity, attracting thousands to their boardwalks.

Atlantic City’s Boardwalks would eventually become so famous they inspired the game monopoly!

Atlantic City was initially promoted as a medical retreat by Columbia graduate, Dr. Jonathan Pitney. With the help of Richard Osborne and Samuel Richards they managed to reach investors who helped pay for the needed charters to build the town.

Why should I visit Atlantic City?

The town has a wide selection of casino hotels, from Borgata to Harrah’s you can also stay at the famous Tropicana.

Atlantic City has quite a selection of famous hotel casinos, including Caesar’s, Hard Rock, and Golden Nugget.

Atlantic City may be famous for its boardwalks and beaches but it also boasts a collection of casino hotels. You’ll often see visitors taking a limo down from New York or even Pennsylvania in order to enjoy the New Jersey Beaches.

What are the best places to eat in Atlantic City?

Atlantic City itself is home to a number of restaurants scattered all over town, however there’s no doubt its best eats are by its boardwalk. Atlantic City’s boardwalk is packed with restaurants, grills, bars, and even lounges.

Such eatery’s include; The Biergarten, Bill’s Gyro, Landshark, and even Rainforest CafĂ©.

The town’s collection of bars and restaurants make taking a tour worthwhile for any vacation to Atlantic City.

In 1944 the town would be hit with a hurricane that completely destroyed the boardwalk.

Atlantic City may be filled with shops, restaurants, bars, casinos, and hotels, but by far its most famous spot is its boardwalk. The boardwalk itself has been around since the towns first inception, it even predates legalized gambling in the city.

Over time Atlantic City has garnered a reputation of giving its visitors a vacation to remember. After all the town became popular at the height of the prohibition. The only real question remaining is, How do I get to Atlantic City?

What are the rates for a limo/car service from NYC to Atlantic City?

Prices will vary depending on what part of NYC you are taking a taxi from, if you are taking a limo or car service from any of New York’s 5 boroughs to Atlantic City prices are as follows;

Vehicle ClassManhattan – Atlantic CityBrooklyn – Atlantic CityThe Bronx – Atlantic CityQueens – Atlantic CityStaten Island – Atlantic City
LUX Sedan$587.67$585.37$620.11$665.03$513.11
LUX SUV 6$733.12$730.20$774.33$831.39$638.41
LUX SUV 7$808.34$805.12$853.94$917.07$703.56
Premium SUV$934.18$930.39$987.84$1062.11$810.88
Prices will vary depending on specific locations

What are the Best Rates for a limo/car service to Atlantic City?

If you are coming from New York City, the best rates are held by My Destiny Limo, and are as follows;

Vehicle ClassManhattan – Atlantic CityBrooklyn – Atlantic CityThe Bronx – Atlantic CityQueens – Atlantic CityStaten Island – Atlantic City
Private Shuttle$428.74$427.03$452.86$486.24$373.33
Prices will vary depending on specific locations.

Most New York Limo/Car Service’s will also cover the 5 boroughs and even some outside states like; Pennsylvania, Connecticut, and even Massachusetts!

New York and New Jersey may be packed with limo and car services but if you’re looking to experience a better brand of black car service then try out My Destiny Limo. Their collection of knowledgeable drivers and luxury vehicles make it a perfect option for any visit.

The Tri-State area may be known for its massive metropolis in Manhattan and Jersey City however everyone needs a vacation. Most New York and New Jersey residents prefer the boardwalk, so why not join in the fun and take a limo down to Atlantic City.

What’s the best way to get to JFK from Manhattan?

New York City is considered the center of the world and for good reason, its diverse culture and towering skyscrapers have made it the melting pot of the world for decades. With so many people packed into one city its no question that New York has garnered the busiest airports in the country. JFK is no exception to this with thousands of flights coming in and out of the airport daily. Yet despite JFK having a constant flow of people it is not the easiest airport to get to.

New York City may be known for its massive public transportation system however there’s no direct line to JFK. Trains don’t got out that far and there’s only one real bus route to get you there but it isn’t exactly reliable so then what is the best way? New York City’s extensive limo services make it the best way to go to or from JFK

What are the prices for a limo service to or from JFK?

Prices vary depending on what part of New York you are coming from, for Manhattan to JFK:

Vehicle ClassJFK – Lower ManhattanJFK – MidtownJFK – Uptown Manhattan
LUX Sedan$168.97$165.90$169.97
LUX SUV$201.26$197.36$202.53
LUX SUV 7$219.91$215.59$221.31
Premium SUV$265.53$260.26$267.24
Sprinter$738.63$728.18$742.03
Rates for transport to or from JFK from Manhattan

What limo service has the best prices to or from JFK?

The best prices for a limo services to or from JFK are offered by My Destiny Limo and are as follows;

Vehicle ClassJFK – Lower ManhattanJFK – MidtownJFK – Upper Manhattan
Private Shuttle$117.55$115.27$ 118.29
Rates for transport to or from JFK from Manhattan

Who is the best limo service to or from JFK?

With New York City’s never ending list of car services to JFK it can become overwhelming trying to pick the right taxi. That begs the question, Who offers the best limo service to or from JFK? My Destiny Limo of course! Their extensive selection of vehicles are all in perfect condition and not only inspected but also cleaned before every ride. On top of this their team of experienced chauffeurs make every ride feel safe and comfortable. So whether you’re leaving a hotel in Manhattan, visiting a relative at Brooklyn, or taking a vacation in the outer states, if you’re going to JFK, book with My Destiny Limo Today!

The Best Service to Connecticut from New York.

Living in New York City can at time make you feel intimidated by the sheer size and sound of the spectacular city lights. sometimes it can feel good to just get out of all the noise in order to help clear your head. this may leave you wondering, What’s the best place to visit outside of New York? You could always go to the quiet state of Pennsylvania, Pennsylvania is the best state for getting away from the loud noise of bustling cities, but we want to direct your attention up north to Connecticut.

Ariel view of Hartford Connecticut

The insurance capital of the world offers a wide range of quiet towns and cities for any out of state resident looking for a vacation from the city lights. If you want to enjoy the ocean and beaches while visiting Connecticut then we recommend the shores and restaurants of Old Greenwich. want to do some shopping? then try going down to Hartford.

If you’re looking to get a sense of Connecticut’s rich history then getting a hotel in New Canaan is a must, as their historic modern architecture still offers tours to this day.

What places should I visit in Connecticut?

Planning on getting out of the city? Then you’ll be happy to know that Connecticut offers a variety of experiences for any visitor. Old Greenwich is a fantastic choice for tourist looking to dip their toes in the sand or enjoy a cocktail in the warm night, its breathtaking shores are rivaled only by its beautiful traditional homes. The town is marked by scenic beaches, friendly residents, and tasty restaurants that make visiting Old Greenwich a must. Old Greenwich is not the only town with beautiful nature and incredible houses, New Canaan is by far Connecticut’s most well known town for its historic architecture and beautiful scenic routes for anyone visiting.

New Canaan would be the site of the first modern homes in the late 1940’s. The town would welcome the Harvard Five who brought with them new ideas and new architectural philosophies. This led to many of the architects buying plots of land to experiment with new styles.

New Canaan is now home to historic buildings from the Harvard Five like; Phillip Johnson’s Glass House, Landis Gore’s Irwin Pool House, Marcel Breuer’s House, and many many more. The town now features tours of these historic houses so feel free to limo up to Connecticut in order to fully experience it for yourself. Now with all these recommendation you may ask yourself.

What are the best rates from New York to Connecticut?

The best rates for a car service from New York to Connecticut are as follows;

Vehicle ClassPrice
Luxury Sedan$460
SUV$570
Luxury SUV$630
Premium SUV$720
Sprinter$1,730

What’s the best Limo Service from New York City to Connecticut?

Without a doubt the best limo service to get you from New York City to Connecticut is My Destiny Limo. They not only offer vehicles in excellent condition but their chauffer’s are high class professionals who not only make your ride smooth and enjoyable but also safe the whole way. My Destiny Limo also offers services to states other than just New York and Connecticut, they also offer services like New York to Pennsylvania and New York to New Jersey if need be. So don’t hesitate, book today!

Downtown Jersey City, Jersey City, New Jersey

If you’re looking to get some shopping and dining done then there’s no better place to do it then Downtown Jersey City. Considered to be one of Jersey City’s most desirable neighborhoods to live in, the area has gone through major redevelopment. Largely due to The Historic Downtown Special Improvement District, who worked in conjunction with property owners and local businesses to improve the neighborhood. Today, Downtown Jersey City is made up of the city’s historic downtown section and The Waterfront, which connects the neighborhood with Newport. Thanks to the efforts of both the residents and the local government Downtown Jersey City is now safer and cleaner. The city is now filled with activities that can range from dining, retail, fitness, to even services. With so many new things to do, we recommend taking a vacation to Downtown Jersey City.

Much of Downtown Jersey City’s history is similar to the rest of the state’s. The area would be occupied by the Lenape tribes until the first European settlers would come to the America’s. The neighborhood would be used during key battles during the American Revolutionary War.

Much of the neighborhood would be developed during the 19th century, with many brownstone buildings lined in the area. There would also be a number of industrial buildings constructed in the area, most of these buildings would be converted or redeveloped into residential apartments, a good example of this is the Dixon Mills.

Some old warehouses would even be turned into art districts, such was the case with The Powerhouse Arts District. Most of Downtown Jersey City’s high-rise buildings would go up during the 2000’s, flooding the neighborhood with new retail stores and restaurants. This also allowed for many tourist to visit Jersey City with the intention of checking out the new shops and restaurants. there are still new stores opening to this day, such as Bourke Street Bakery, the newest addition to the list of Jersey City bakery’s. Certain neighborhoods have managed to keep their historic buildings, most are lined on Harsimus which lies in between Van Vorst Park and Hamilton Park.

Harsimus Rail Station

Harsimus is a neighborhood within the Downtown Jersey City District and is lined with 19th century row houses. Like the rest of Jersey City, it was previously inhabited by the Lenape, though most of its buildings would be constructed during the 1830’s. Much of Harsimus’ urbanization was done by John Coles, a merchant who expanded the neighborhood during this time. The city’s proximity to its shoreline allowed for the neighborhood to develop into a busy port city.

Harsimus would truly flourish thanks to the development of the railroad industry. During the 1870’s the neighborhood would be land-filled to make way for the addition of railyards. The addition of railroads and terminals allowed for huge stockyards to be built along the waterfront.

The neighborhood would face a wave of political corruption beginning in the early 1900’s. From 1910 to about 1950 Harsimus would be the site of gerrymandering, slowing down any further process of development. Between 1950 and 1970 the area would suffer from massive economic and population decline. Largely due to Port Newark’s development, which is now the main shipping dock of the Greater New York Metropolitan area. It was in the 1970’s that Harsimus would finally go through a redevelopment phase.

Slums would be cleared and many new housing projects would go up, most of which are aimed at middle and low income residents. This renewal had no effect on the 19th century row houses previously built in the neighborhood, largely due to a preservation movement. While the preservation managed to protect the row houses in Harsimus the surrounding area would be redeveloped. Mass transit and affordable rents attracted many artists to the area, many of whom converted their buildings into live/work spaces. The influx of wealth led to High-rise residential buildings being constructed within the area. Most artists would continue their work in the Powerhouse Arts District. The main road running through Harsimus is Newark Ave which houses a pedestrian mall.

The Newark Ave Pedestrian Mall is home to many shops and restaurants, the Mall also hosts a number of seasonal events too. There are current plans to develop the pedestrian mall further, including widening the streets.

West of Harsimus lies a small but wonderful historic neighborhood called the Village. The Village houses many historic buildings that have been preserved thanks to efforts by the local community. The neighborhood was once known as Jersey City’s very own “Little Italy”, many of its roots are still there today.

The neighborhood is littered with many restaurants and cafes for anyone needing some quiet time in the city. You’ll even find a wine tavern in the Village, filled with different types of cheeses and cocktails. The Village is also home to the oldest polish speaking parish in New Jersey, with many Polish worshipers attending the church daily.

Built in order to serve Polish parishioners, the St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church serves as the neighborhoods main building of worship and doubles as a historic attraction. Before its inception polish Catholics would often have to take a ferry to the other side of the river just to attend service. The construction of the building allowed residents convenient access to a house of worship. St. Anthony of Padua Catholic Church was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2004 and is now one of the centerpieces in the Village.

Another one of the Villages historic buildings is the White Eagle Hall, which has been used as a community center since 1910. It was originally built by Polish immigrants who were led by Rev. Peter Boleslaus Kwiatowski. Rev. Kwiatowski would help establish many parishes around New Jersey. Ownership of the hall would be transferred over to the St. Anthony of Padua Roman Catholic church in 1934. The hall would serve as a bingo hall and practice center for a local basketball team called the Friars, coached by Bob Hurley.

In 1968 White Eagle Hall would serve as the stage for multiple band competitions, Frank Infante would begin his career here. This would go on until about 1975, eventually the building would be put up for renovation. It wasn’t until 2013 that the building would finally see a restoration period, the hall would then be reopened in 2017.

The Powerhouse Arts district is a name given to a district in Downtown Jersey City that was previously occupied by industrial warehouses.

The district itself is located on the Jersey City waterfront overlooking the Hudson River. The Powerhouse Arts District would be converted after many artists began to move into the area due to cheaper rent. Most artists would prefer to live in the same area they worked, this led to the city proposing new zoning laws that would allow people to work where they lived. Unfortunately the districts were never zoned and with a boost in the local economy the neighborhood began to favor high rise buildings. Many of these old buildings would still remain in the area, the most well known being the powerhouse. The main arts center is located in a renovated generating station named the Hudson and Manhattan Railroad Powerhouse, this is where the district would get its name.

Today, the Powerhouse Arts District is being looked at by many in the real estate business. There are current plans to build a new 900 foot skyscraper in the area, which would make it the tallest building in New Jersey. However many believe the area should stay as is.

The Powerhouse Arts district is now filled with shops and restaurants for residents to enjoy. its collection of bars, grills, and breweries make it an excellent spot for a vacation! So take a limo down to the neighborhood for a visit, but be warned, with so much to do you may want to have a driver for more than a few hours!

Another mixed-use community in Downtown Jersey City is Newport, which was redeveloped in 1986 by The LeFrak Organization. The district is now home to many retail and entertainment facilities situated on the Hudson Waterfront. The Hudson-Bergen Light Rail also has a stop in Newport, connecting it to the local neighborhoods though if you’re looking for more reliable transportation try taking a taxi instead. Newport is home to a variety of restaurants, whether you’re looking for burgers, bakeries or bars!

From 1985 to 2009 the neighborhood would undergo a major real estate development. High-rise rental apartments and condominiums were built allowing for the additions of many new households.

Newport‘s redevelopment plan also allowed for the construction of new hotel buildings, with some hotels using remnants of old warehouses dating back to 1989. The neighborhood also contains a great number of office spaces, over five million square feet of it, with many big named companies residing within the neighborhood. Some of the most well-known companies include L’Oreal, Citigroup, Forbes, and even JP Morgan Chase. Newport is packed with both local shops and big name retail stores that tend to coexist in mixed use spaces.

The Newport River Market is a perfect example of this due to its dining, retail, and service options. The market is located on a river front and is home to stores like Target, Sears, Staples, and many more. If you’re looking for a quick bite, you’ll find the neighborhood loaded with pizzeria’s, cafes, and even houses a steakhouse!

Another great shopping area in Newport is the Newport Centre, better known as the Newport Mall. The mall would open in 1987 with over a million square feet of space and attracted buyers from all over. The Newport Mall was the first of its size in Hudson County and is home to over 150 stores and services.

The mall itself has three floors and is part of the Newport Complex, which stands as the sixth tallest building in Jersey City. The mall also houses AMC Theaters, JCPenny, Macy’s, and Kohl’s, the mall was also home to Sears back when they still operated. Today, the Newport Mall attracts visitors from as close as Bergen-Lafayette to as far as Atlantic City, making it an excellent place to shop for anyone visiting.

Another district that overlooks the Hudson River is Paulus Hook.

Paulus Hook is an elevated neighborhood in Downtown Jersey City that derives its name from the Dutch word for “point of land”, Hoeck. Like much of New Jersey, Paulus Hook was originally settled by the Lenape, then managed by the Dutch and English until the American Revolutionary War. During the American Revolution Paulus Hook would be the site of many operations, with many key forts built in New Jersey, one of which was located on Paulus Hook.

Paulus Hook would see a major construction boom following the addition of the Hudson-Bergen Light Rail. The rail helps connect Hudson County with other neighborhoods in the city, such as Bergen-Lafayette. After the September 11 attack the neighborhood would see major investments going into expanding the area.

The neighborhood is a popular shopping destination with lines of restaurants on Morris Street, and Washington Street. Both these streets are packed with excellent cuisine, from European to Parisian, any visitor will find something they enjoy.

Paulus Hook’s waterfront faces the Hudson River, you’ll find that the waterfront has phenomenal views to offer. Vacation goers will find that many of the locals are from the surrounding neighborhoods, many of who use the light rail for easy access. If you’re looking to avoid the public transit, you’ll be happy to know there are a number of limo services that can take you around the neighborhood.

Another popular stop off the HBLR is Exchange Place, Jersey City’s very own Wall Street, or even Wall Street West.

The district sits on a piece of land that was created by landfilling the shore on Paulus Hook. The neighborhood itself has been a transportation hub for much of its history dating back to the 1760’s. Exchange Place was the original site of the first steam ferry service, which stood at the head of a highway to Newark. The ferry would be established in 1812 and would influence the location of certain terminals built in Jersey City. From 1838 to 1892 the Pennsylvania Railroad would purchase and remodel the terminal in order to expand it. During this time the neighborhood was not referred to as Exchange Place but instead as the Pennsylvania Railroad station.

The addition of the New Jersey Railroad and construction of a new intermodal terminal helped propel the neighborhood into an important transportation center on the East Coast. Local transportation in Jersey City would be the first to refer to the neighborhood as Exchange Place, in order to better identify where passengers wanted to go. At the turn of the century the station would be given to the city, where it would be expanded and renovated. The Hudson and Manhattan Railroad would open tunnels in 1910, and in 1926 the station would officially adopt the name Exchange Place. In 1949 business began to dwindle, ferry service was being discontinued and buses would replace rail lines. Then finally in 1962 the station would officially close down and be demolished, with many of its railyards being eliminated. Now a days most residents would prefer to take a taxi down to Exchange Place, sometimes even as far out as Pennsylvania.

Exchange Place is also home to a waterfront with fantastic views of New York City and still operates as a private terminal. Many trolleys and buses still start and end at Exchange Place and there are still a few ferries that run to it.

Newark Avenue allows easier access to EWR by providing a direct road to the airport. The Hudson Bergen Light Rail still operates out of Exchange Place making it easy to travel from Bergen-Lafayette or any other local neighborhood. If you’re planning on going further out you’ll be happy to know the PATH still has terminals at Exchange Place, so have fun visiting Atlantic City! Exchange Place isn’t just a terminal however, it’s also home to two of New Jersey’s tallest buildings, 99 Hudson and the Goldman Sachs Tower. With a plethora of restaurants, rooftop bars, and even vintage shops visiting Exchange Place should be on your list. 

North of Harsimus lies Hamilton Park, a quiet, Victorian aged greenspace surrounded by 19th century row houses. The park itself was constructed around 1827 and was founded by a man named John B. Coles. John B. Coles was a federalist from New York who laid out the groundwork for Downtown Jersey City’s foundation. He would name the park after Alexander Hamilton, who on top of being a founding father was also the founder for the federalist party. Hamilton Park is about 5.4 acre square that houses a wide selection of shops, boutiques, and restaurants. Inside the Park you’ll find many activities when visiting, ranging from children’s playground, basketball courts, and even dog parks. Hamilton Park even features a splash pond and sprinklers for little ones to enjoy during the summer!

The park also has a number of events as well, during the summer the community hosts the Hamilton Park Festival where visitors can enjoy music and food in the park. The Park also hosts outdoor movie nights, the schedule can be found on a banner in the entrance, or simply online. Hamilton Park is also home to a Gazebo that has a farmers market set up every Wednesday from May to December. Visitors can enjoy some iced cold lemonade, popcorn, and fresh produce sold in the market. The farmers market also sells jams, green vegetables, and even Empanadas!

The park also has its own preservation group that maintains Hamilton Park clean and safe for all ages. Hamilton Park Conservancy is dedicated to protecting the park’s natural beauty. Hamilton Park is also surrounded with different activities for all ages to enjoy whether that be ice cream shops, gyms or even instrument and dance classes.

You’ll find the park is engulfed with Victorian era buildings with colorful murals all over the neighborhood. If you’re looking to get some food while at Hamilton park grab a bite at Carmine’s Pizza or sit down at a restaurant for some Korean food. Hamilton Park also features a bar and even an hotel in the area, appropriately named Hamilton Inn. If you’re planning a calm vacation, try visiting Hamilton Park; its beautiful greenery and friendly residents make it an excellent spot.

Further south of Harsimus is Van Vorst Park, while very similar to Hamilton Park its history is different to the park up north. The park itself was a centerpiece of a township that used to exist in the neighborhood, appropriately named, Van Vorst Township.

The name itself comes from the Van Vorst family, who acted as supervisors to the land and helped in its development during the 1630’s. Van Vorst Park would begin to build row houses in the 1800’s. The Van Vorst family would manage the settlement throughout generations until about 1862, During this time the family would employ local florist, Peter Henderson, to landscape the park. Van Vorst Park would be renovated in the 2000’s thanks to a $2 million fund being raised by the Friends of Van Vorst Park. The park is now filled with playgrounds, sandboxes, a gazebo, and even sprinkler parks!

Van Vorst Park is very similar to Washington Square Park located near SoHo, New York City. However the park in Downtown Jersey City features much more traditional architecture. Today the park is mainly a residential area with many brick row houses and Victorian architecture. While there are still plenty of shops and restaurants for visitors to enjoy, the neighborhood is much more of a visual treat. It’s traditional architecture and friendly residents make it a perfect place to escape from the noise, and with so many transportation options to or from New Jersey, getting to Van Vorst Park can be a hassle free experience. While you may be tempted to take public transit to Downtown Jersey City, don’t be afraid to take a taxi. Now a days the Tri State area is filled with limos and drivers that are more than willing to take you to Jersey City.

Jersey City hosts many events during the holidays. some of the city will even hosts toy drives for kids and even pop up shops to buy gifts. Jersey City will also put up Christmas lights for those visiting to enjoy. So take a limo down to Jersey City and enjoy the holidays.

If you’re planning on doing some shopping in the area than it might be best to contract a limo service. most limos in the area are willing to provide an hourly service for anyone doing a tour of the city.

If you’re coming from out of state then you’ll be happy to know that most car services can go as far out as Pennsylvania or even Connecticut. This makes visiting New Jersey not just a possibility but a must.

Bergen-Lafayatte, Jersey City, New Jersey

Welcome to Bergen-Lafayette, one of the six major neighborhoods in Jersey City and home to a number of mix-used residential complexes. The neighborhood used to be home to many industrial facilities but has seen a lot of renovation projects to make it what it is today. Bergen-Lafayette even went through a few name changes, during the early 1800’s it was called Bergen, then Bergen City. It wasn’t until about 1870 where the neighborhood would officially be incorporated into Jersey City. The merger with Jersey City would lead to a massive renovation project that would take years to finally settle. Today, the city is filled with malls and shopping centers for visitors to enjoy, so if you’re planning on Visiting Jersey City, take a taxi down to Bergen-Lafayette.

North of Bergen-Lafayette is Journal Square, a multi-use business and residential area that is currently being redeveloped. New high-rises are allowing for wealthier residents to move in. Don’t be surprised if you see a few residents having a driver in their limo.

Journal Square used to be home to many farmhouses and manors, most of which were passed down from the previous residents of the “square”. During the early 1900’s many of these houses were demolished to make way for more modern buildings. Many of Journal Square‘s current buildings were constructed around this time, including the Public Service building and the Labor Bank Building. The Square itself was built in 1923, and was named after the Jersey Journal, who had their original building demolished to make way for Journal Square. From the 1920’s to the 1960’s Journal Square became a hub for vibrant culture and arts within the city. It was known as the “crown jewel” of the city, with many commercial and entertainment districts located in the area. Many of Journal Squares buildings would be constructed during this time, some of the buildings being built as far back as before WWII. The mayor of Jersey City has made it clear that he is looking to change the area. Journal Square is now looking to develop high rise buildings made for commercial and residential use.

If you’re looking to visit Bergen-Lafayette then you’ll be happy to know that transportation to the neighborhood is very convenient. The Hudson-Bergen Light Rail offers transit for anyone visiting, whether you’re coming in from Newport or even Downtown Jersey City! Bergen-Lafayette and Downtown Jersey City are also connected by the Lafayette Pool & Aquatic Center. The aquatic center has 2 pools, the main pool and the kiddie pool, its also one of three pools in the neighborhood. If you’re planning on visiting on a colder day than you make want to take a taxi down to the Liberty Science Center. The science center offers all kinds of exhibits, from 3D films to even a planetarium.

Bergen-Lafayette is packed with parks and recreation centers. This makes it perfect for farmers market’s and any nature lovers planning a visit. Arlington Park Farmers Market is one of the many option available during the spring. You’ll find plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables to eat, making a vacation to Bergen-Lafayette a must. Arlington Park also holds a number of events during the seasons, making it that much sweeter.

Many urban planners and architects are beginning to flock to the square, most famous of which being the Kushner Real Estate Group. Redevelopment on the square hasn’t begun yet but with residential demand going up so will high rise buildings. This will also lead to load of new shops and restaurants opening in the neighborhood.

Bergen-Lafayette has recently had a few new small businesses open up in the neighborhood. Many of these businesses are either shops or restaurants offering all kinds of services and cuisines. Such is the case with places like Isla Pillipinas, who recently opened their doors to anyone looking to enjoy Filipino food. Most of these shops are part of Jersey City‘s push for its tourists to buy local during their visit, this has allowed for Bergen-Lafayette to expand its collection of shops. Whether its for the dining or shopping, we’re sure you’ll find a reason to hop on the light rail or take a limo down to Bergen-Lafayette.

Bergen-Lafayette has a number of roads that run from north to south through the neighborhood, many of these roads being built along the Hudson Palisades.

The Hudson Palisades is a strip of land well known for its steep cliffside that stretches about 20 miles north of New Jersey. The cliffside is one of New York City’s most famous natural landmarks and is a popular destination for hikers and campers. You’ll often find many New York residents taking transportation to the cliffside around spring times. Whether that be through New York’s extensive rail network or taking a car service to the cliffside.

The cliff also helped map out many road patterns used today. The Palisades first documentation would be around 1541, where it would appear on a European map of the new world. Giovanni Da Verrazzano would describe the cliffside as a “fence of stakes”.

During the American Revolution the cliffside would aid in buying time for general George Washington to regroup his men in Englewood. Then from 1798 to 1845 the cliffside would be the site of many duels, most famous of which being a duel between Aaron Burr and Alexander Hamilton. During the 19th century there was heavy lobbying to preserve the Palisades. This was in response to many railroad companies looking to the cliffside for heavy quarrying. For 20 years there would be many unsuccessful motions to preserve the park until about 1909, where the Palisades Interstate Park Commission was created. For a while, the Palisades would be scouted for multiple building and relocation projects, however each time companies would be met with strong resistance from conservationists. In addition, many powerful people would join in the efforts to keep the Palisades a natural landmark, such as Mary Williamson Averell and even John D. Rockefeller Jr. Thousands of acres of land would be donated to the Palisades in order to keep them safe. One of the only additions made to the cliffside is the addition of George Washington Bridge, which opened in 1931. The bridge would help connect New Jersey with Upper Manhattan, and the palisades would help developers design the city.

Most of these roads make up the Bergen section of the neighborhood. A residential district lined with old Victorian mansions, row houses, and some impressive art deco designs. Some of the buildings here where remodeled for residential use.

Most famous of which being The Beacon, a mixed-use development that went through major changes in the early 2000’s. The building itself was designed during the great depression as a medical center, but after many years it was redeveloped into what is now known as The Beacon. There’s also a shopping district filled with old storefronts located within the area on Monticello Avenue. Bergen has a few buildings that are considered landmarks in the neighborhood, such the YMCA’s Renaissance Revival building and the Fairmount Apartments.

The Fairmount Apartments are an example of early 20th century architectural design. it was designed by the Newman and Harris firm and was built around the 1910’s. The Fairmount Apartments would be added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1995 and would be renovated in the same year.

Today Bergen is filled with shopping districts and early 20th century buildings however not all of them stood the test of time. Some sections of Bergen-Lafayette have been around since the earliest settlements of North America. Such is the case with Communipaw, a historic district in Bergen-Lafayette that merged with New Jersey around the 1860’s. Communipaw was urbanized at the end of the 19th century, however most of its buildings were constructed during different time periods.

Whitlock Cordage is an old industrial complex built in the early 1900’s that has been repurposed. Originally, Whitlock Cordage was a rope factory that spanned more than 7 acres of land. The factory would operate from about 1909 to 2003 before a judge ruled for its demolition and resale. Whitlock Cordage was then purchased and renovated into over 200 affordable residential apartments. Whitlock Cordage is not the only industry building that was converted into a residential complex. Ficken’s Warehouse was built in 1910 and was used as a stable until being renovated for residential use around the 2000’s.

Berry Lane Park is another example of a former industrial ground being converted into a residential area. The area was formerly filled with auto shops, warehouses, rail yards, and plenty of industrial facilities. Some of those factories were major contributors to metal contamination throughout the local environment. The former industrial district was renovated from 2012 to 2016 and was opened for public use in June 2016.

Bergen-Lafayette is being reshaped and remodeled into a brand new residential and commercial district. not just filled with commercial business but also packed with parks for visitors to enjoy. Its commercial districts are going through high rise booms leading to an influx of visitors looking to get some shopping done in the area. If you are coming down to visit you’ll be glad to know that Bergen-Lafayette is filled with coffee shops and restaurants, you can even get Caribbean food in the city. Some New York residents already take a limo service down to Atlantic City so its no surprise that they’re stopping by Bergen-Lafayette to do some sight seeing.

Georgetown, Washington D.C.

Located Northwest of Washington D.C., and founded in the mid 1700’s, there lies a neighborhood called Georgetown. With a population over 70,000 Georgetown has a rich history from the day it was first founded. Today, Georgetown is home to some of the most fabulous restaurants in the country and some of the best shops as well! This makes it worth visiting for any tourist, so make sure you have transportation to the neighborhood to enjoy your stay. From its busy M Street to the beautiful Georgetown Park, there are plenty of things to do for anyone wanting to visit. Georgetown is also flooded with historic areas from both the 19th century and the 20th century. This can include things such as the Washington Harbor or even some of its historical schools. Georgetown is not just known for its high end shops and restaurants but also for its education. The neighborhood has consistently poured its resources into its education system landing them one of the most prestigious schools to attend, Georgetown University. Georgetown is a wonderful place to visit, and while it used to be more well known for its unattainable status. Though, recently its become much more accessible to the public, with more shops and restaurants for anyone to enjoy.

Georgetown was may have been founded in the mid 1700’s but its history goes all the way back to the 1600’s. In 1632 Henry Fleet, an English fur trader, documented a village of the Nacotchtank people called Tohoga, this is where modern Georgetown is now located. Henry Fleet had actually spent 5 years as the Nacotchtank’s prisoner, he was later freed for ransom. Henry Fleet saw the advantage that Georgetown had for shipping due to its connection to the ocean via the Potomac River. This lead to a port being build in the area and trade was then established. The port of Georgetown is actually about 40 years older than the city of Washington. Then in 1745, a tobacco inspection house was constructed alongside the Potomac River by a man named George Gordon. George Beall Jr. was also a prominent figure in the neighborhood, he was the grandson of George Bell who was a strong political figure among other things. In the 1750’s the 60 acre area was purchased by the Province of Maryland, this was done to turn the neighborhood into Georgetown. Robert Peter then became the first mayor of the town, Georgetown then began to build, using the river to its advantage by building ports and warehouses. After which the establishment of the federal capital helped Georgetown become its own independent district.

View of Georgetown University in the 19th century

In the early 1820’s the Potomac River became so filled up with ports and silt that it became hard to navigate up to Georgetown. This was becoming such an issue that it became difficult to trade in Georgetown. The solution was to build a new canal going from Harper’s Ferry to Georgetown, however the introduction to the Baltimore & Ohio Railroad altered that. To start with, the railroad was finished before the canal could be done, and it was much cheaper than the ferry. This practically killed any hope for a ferry to bring in money. While the canal was still built it was not as profitable as they had hoped, this was due to the train being much cheaper and much faster. There was an upside, the canal was originally made to allow for civilian boats to pass but with most residents now taking the train, it gave another route for ships and cargo boats to take. This wound up being extremely helpful as it helped clear up some congestion and provided a boost for the economy in the town. Georgetown would follow the trend of the evolving industries throughout the decades; during the 1820’s they traded tobacco, sugar, salt, and even hemp, later incorporating flour, and even coal. For the next 40 – 50 years the area would remain largely self governed, while this was good for expanding business it would eventually become a problem. Georgetown eventually had to deal with its original problem, constant shipping of coal leading to the area becoming silted. To make things worse in 1889 a storm at the end of May washed away a poorly managed dam in the area. This nearly destroyed Georgetown, it took years for the area to finally begin to rebuild. Georgetown not only rebuilt but also expanded. This led to the expansion of the railroads and allowed for new factories to be built in the neighborhood. Georgetown’s waterfront became more industrialized, with warehouses, and apartment complexes going up in the area. None of these apartments were actually well kept. By the end of the 19th century, Georgetown was a mix of industry along the river, and “projects” for the workers to live in. However, older homes remaining unchanged though most of them would remain abandoned for a while.

The opening of the Buffalo Bridge in the early 1910’s helped connect Georgetown with Rock Creek Park. then in the 1920’s construction began on large apartment complexes along the edge of Georgetown. The C & O Canal would deal with a series of floods throughout the years until it was eventually sold to the National Park Service in late 1938.

The area would then remain largely industrial until about 1968, a series of freeways then allowed for some commuters to avoid Georgetown altogether.

Georgetown has some of the best schools in the country and for good reason. With money constantly moving in and out of the area it allowed for schools to be well founded. Georgetown is home to many university-preparatory schools, the first being Columbian Academy. Georgetown was not just fueled by wealth but also its desire to properly educate the young. Georgetown contains multiple private schools such as; Georgetown Visitation Preparatory School, Georgetown Day School, and many more. The schools themselves also contain some interesting history for anyone willing to read. Georgetown does contain some public schools, and most are operated by the District of Columbia Public Schools or (DCPS) for short. There are also a number of public libraries in the area, mainly due to the District of Columbia Public Library operating there. However the most well known university is without a doubt Georgetown University.

Georgetown University is one the oldest schools in the United States founded by bishop John Carroll in 1789. It stands as the best private research university in the country and is consistently ranked among the top universities in the United States with highly picky admissions. It stands as the oldest Catholic institution of higher education in the United States however the majority of its students do not follow the religion. The school’s alumni include more U.S. diplomats than any other university in the United States. Georgetown University’s main campus is identifiable by Healy Hall, a National Historic Landmark. The school now houses about 10 undergraduate and graduate schools.

Georgetown University is one the oldest schools in the United States founded by bishop John Carroll in 1789. It stands as the best private research university in the country and is consistently ranked among the top universities in the United States with highly picky admissions.

It stands as the oldest Catholic institution of higher education in the United States however the majority of its students do not follow the religion. The school’s alumni include more U.S. diplomats than any other university in the United States. this means that visiting the university is not as easy as getting on a bus, often times the students take a car service to the school. This means that unless you have the funds, Georgetown University is very difficult to tour. Georgetown University’s main campus is identifiable by Healy Hall, a National Historic Landmark. The school now houses about 10 undergraduate and graduate schools.

Georgetown has 2 main roads going through it, one of them being M street and the other being Wisconsin Avenue. Wisconsin Avenue is part of the Maryland suburbs and is often being used as the main road in the neighborhood. Wisconsin Avenue actually starts in the Georgetown and passes through a lot of parks and neighborhoods. Wisconsin Avenue passes through Glover Park, Cathedral Heights, Cleveland Park, Tenleytown and Friendship Heights. Eventually the road goes into Bethesda and forms into one of the main streets in the area. M street is split apart into 4 different section. All of these sections are named after their direction Northwest, Northeast, Southwest, Southeast. The Northwestern section carries heavy commuter traffic as it connects Pennsylvania Avenue with Key Bridge and Canal Road. The Northeastern section of M street contains the Gallaudet University. Finally the southern sections of M street lead to both the Washington Navy Yard and a few National Parks.

Georgetown is packed with high-end boutiques that despite being designer pieces still capture that small town feel. You’ll often find these shops down on M street, such shops include; Rag & Bone, Bonobos, and even Kate Spade New York. This makes taking a tour of Georgetown a must while you’re visiting.

One of Georgetown’s best tourist destination is Georgetown Park. Georgetown Park is a mixed use area, consisting of both a shopping mall and condominium use. It also went through some of the most renovations throughout the decades. parts of its structure where actually used from old tobacco warehouses in the area, these parts can date as far back as 1838. In the 1850’s Georgetown Park was bought by John E. Reeside and Gilbert Vanderwerken, during which it was used to hold their Omnibus line. After it was used to hold the Washington and Georgetown Railroad, it was then converted into a machine shop for streetcars. At one point the building served as the United States Defense Communications Annex E. Donohoe Construction Co. acquired the building in 1975 and was tasked with developing the area into a combined housing and commercial complex.

When walking around Georgetown you’ll be greeted with the sight of America’s first style of home, federal-style. The town is packed with Federalist style homes built back during the 18th century. While the architectural style may be called “Federal” its actually a style from England called “Georgian”

These homes where often built by wealthy Englishmen who would hire builders and carpenters to construct rowhouses and townhouses. During this period of expansion most houses would be built in a federal-style, which was used to design homes between 1785 to 1830. These buildings feature low stoops, iron hand rails, and are well known for their Flemish bond brick layouts. The roofs on these homes are typically pitched and would often have two attic dormers, windows and entrances would also feature small cornices above them. Some federal style public buildings feature arched windows, these are typically used by churches and town halls. The standard federal-style home is built with wood framing on top of a brick basement. Federal homes are typically three stories high, flat, with six-over-six windows lined with simple masonry. the allure of federal-style homes is derived from the elegance of linear placement of doors and windows.

Federal style can also be seen used for the hotels in the area. Some of these buildings even feature pillars in the entryway, though these are mostly used in public buildings. With Georgetown being so synonymous with federal architecture its no wonder they offer tours to anyone visiting!

Washington Harbor is also one of Georgetown’s most famous destinations as well. Washington Harbor is a mixed used development that was designed by Arthur Cotton Moore. The complex contains luxury condominiums, offices, retail space, and restaurants. Washington Harbor has a postmodern architectural style. Washington Harbor has a set of floodgates designed to help protect it against river floods; the gates were later renovated after 2010. During its initial days it was mainly used as a commercial harbor, however this changed during the Industrial Revolution. At first Washington Harbor had to close because of a decline in commercial sales. This led to numerous Manufacturing plants and industry to be built in the area. After the 1960’s Washington Harbor went through numerous proposals but none were acted upon for almost a decade. Many Georgetown residents strongly opposed plans to build a series of highways throughout the city. Ironically enough the plan that eventually went through was a plan to tear down the already existing freeway. Washington Harbor was inevitably saved by President Nixon in 1971. Construction of the actual area began in the 1980’s and was opened in phases, the first phase being in 1986.

Today, the Potomac river contains multiple waterfront dining options, many of which can give you a fantastic view of The Kennedy Center. Some of the better options for seafood in the area are places like Sequoia, Nick’s Riverside Grill, and Tony & Joe’s Seafood Place. Georgetown is also home to some of the most famous restaurants in the country, so famous even presidents eat there! 2 of these restaurants are Farmers Fishers Bakers, and Fiola Mare, who have had the luxury of having guests like Joe Biden and James Bond. Some luxury hotels offer restaurants of their own, all of these restaurants offer top cuisine options for all their guests. Places like Bourbon Steak, and CUT by Wolfgang Puck can offer you a variety of Steaks and red meat options to satisfy your meat filling. There is also a restaurant called The Alex, named after Alexander Graham Bell, which features a Steampunk aesthetic for its visitors to enjoy. You can enjoy some Italian Cuisine at the Cafe Milano and Filomena Ristorante, or an all-American menu at 1798. Georgetown also features a number of stylish bars such as Richard Sandoval’s El Centro D.F., which serves up authentic Mexican food all day!

Georgetown has a number of excellent hotels to choose from, should you decide to visit. One of its more luxurious being The Graham Hotel, which is home to 50 exclusive rooms to choose and an indoor restaurant and bar. The Graham also has a phenomenal view of the Georgetown waterfront. The hotel also features an open rooftop lounge for anyone wanting to take pictures during their tour of D.C..

There’s also Greg Engert’s The Sovereign, where one can fill up their Belgian food desires. If you’re looking to enjoy a good cocktail check out Konditorei + Kafe Leopold. For those who just want to grab a quick bite to eat, you can check out places like Sweetgreen, or Good Stuff Eatery. There are also a number of clothing shops in Georgetown as well.

If you’re planning on visiting Georgetown its good to know the best way to get around the neighborhood. Unfortunately, there are no direct bus or train routes that go in and out of Georgetown, luckily there’s another solution! Washington D.C. has many great transportation services and one of which being My Destiny Limo! My Destiny Limo can provide you with a black car service to take you in and out of Georgetown. So if you’re looking for a safe car service, they have both the safest and most relaxing car services available to you. If you’re coming in from out the Washington D.C. area, or if you’re just visiting family, then you will be happy to know that some car companies can accommodate for that. My Destiny Limo can go as far out as New York City to Washington D.C. if you needed it.

Downtown Brooklyn, Brooklyn, New York City

Welcome to Downtown Brooklyn! one of the oldest cities in the United States and yet despite its history it’s a new city compared to the bustling Manhattan. As of 2010, Brooklyn houses over 2 million residents who all commute, live, and work in Downtown Brooklyn. The neighborhood is located Northwest of the Brooklyn Borough and has become New York City’s central tech hub over the years. Currently, Downtown Brooklyn contains 3 separate malls, its own arena, new high rise buildings, its own industrial zone along with plenty of schools to choose from and even has a couple of well known buildings in the area. This means that Downtown Brooklyn is currently filled with shops for visitors and even a stadium, this makes it an excellent choice for your next vacation! Two of its main buildings are the Williamsburgh Savings Bank and the MetroTech Center complex. One of the main reason that Brooklyn has began its ascension into the business side of New York is through how close Brooklyn is to Lower Manhattan. Downtown Brooklyn is one of the first neighborhoods you can go into right out of Manhattan, this has helped propel Brooklyn into the third largest central business district in New York City, this was later confirmed by a report done by the Regional Plan Association. The man who helped with Brooklyn’s new rise to dominance is Howard Golden, who believed that Downtown Brooklyn should work together with Manhattan because of its proximity.

Until about 1814, the Downtown Brooklyn and Brooklyn Heights are would remain sparsely populated. This would come to change due to a man named Robert Fulton, Who also believed in what Howard Golden did, helped Brooklyn rise to what it is today. To start, Brooklyn was made into a suburban area at first, though it would eventually become a new commercial center in the city. During the 1850’s certain Brooklyn churches went against slavery, some would even act as a safehouse in order to help the Underground Railroad movement. The 19th century growth of the Port of New York caused shipping to influence the City of Brooklyn. This led to Brooklyn being initially used as the manufacturing district of New York City, it would become filled with different warehouses and factories. This was a direct influence of the construction of the Manhattan and Brooklyn bridge, and helped further Brooklyn’s rise in business. There was a complete revamp of the area following World War 2, this was done to widen its streets, add major housing projects and allowed the Brooklyn Bridge to be modernized. During the late 1960’s a plan was completed by the city that was made in order to help Brooklyn have more commercial and office spaces available. The City Planning Commission then stated, “Downtown Brooklyn’s economy is vital to the borough and important to the entire metropolitan region.”.

Ariel view of Downtown Brooklyn during the middle of the day.

after Robert Fulton transformed the neighborhood to a commercial hub, Brooklyn was no longer meant for residential living, at first, this meant that a massive rezoning of the Downtown Brooklyn area had to be done. However the rezoning took a very long time to come through and was only really done in 2004, despite this it has allowed for more denser residential areas to develop. The area has seen the arrival of new condominium towers, townhouses, and office conversions and has led to more than 30,000 new residents to move into Downtown Brooklyn. The city was also seeking to improve the connections between downtown and the neighborhoods of Cobble Hill, Boerum Hill, and Fort Greene. In March 2012 the area was going through heavy remodeling, 2 years later an affordable housing plan was put into place with over 400 new units put into place.

Downtown Brooklyn now features multiple well known shops, Most of which are located near the acclaimed Barclay’s Center. Which is smacked in the middle of Downtown Brooklyn. The area will also sometimes hosts pop up events for tourist visiting.

Downtown Brooklyn hosts holiday pop-up shops and diners, the most recent of which is being set up for the month of December. Whether that be the Borough Hall market that’ll last until the 26th, or Santa visiting until the 18, there’s something for every visit.

The Downtown Brooklyn area contains multiple municipal buildings, halls, and courthouses along with a handful of schools to choose from. The Borough Hall at times is used as a farmers market and contains fresh produce from farmers around the New York area. Downtown Brooklyn also has multiple options for shopping, dining, and drinking with almost 200 options in bars and restaurants. Multiple 7-eleven’s, Multiple pizza shops, a variety of coffee shops and bakeries, and a lot of different Asian cuisine and burger places to choose from. Downtown Brooklyn also has multiple apparel and beauty shops to choose from along with a few art exhibits to enjoy. Adidas, Banana Republic, Burlington, H&M, GAP, Macy’s, Nordstrom Rack, Target, and even Uniqlo making a visit more than worth it. Downtown Brooklyn is also home to a few malls and even art exhibits for anyone looking for some inspiration.

Downtown Brooklyn has recently been adding many statues honoring people. Most recent of which is a 9 foot sculpture of The Notorious B.I.G.! The artist molded both bronze and steel to create a mural that honors both African American sculpting styles and the hip-hop artist himself. The mural can be easily seen when taking a taxi into the city.

City Point is a mix of both residential and commercial use for the Downtown Brooklyn area and it was completed as recently as 2020. City Point contains multiple books stores, apparel shops, and restaurants to choose from along with its own movie theater and even weekly giveaways. The mall had technically been established in 2004 but it wasn’t until an influx of tourist visiting Brooklyn that paved way for the opening of the mall back in 2015. This helped the neighborhood build a stronger community thanks to the explosion of vibrant culture in the area. While City Point is Downtown Brooklyn’s newest mall it’s not its biggest, that title belongs to Atlantic Terminal Mall. Atlantic Terminal Mall is a combination of two shopping malls into one which is why there appears to be two entrances. Both Malls are connected via an enclosed bridge from a Target inside. In addition, Atlantic Terminal Mall is also an office building and part of the ticket office of the Long Island Rail Road. The Downtown Brooklyn area was also approved for another rezoning project which allowed for the revamp of the Fulton Mall. The area is a walkable transit mall that has been around since the 1980’s and redesigned for the commercial and residential influx. The Fulton Mall was revamped once again during the mid 2000’s and now holds Macy’s, H&M, Gap, GameStop, Foot Locker, and Finish Line. The Fulton area is also going through its own revamp with the construction of the 625 Fulton, which aims to create in additional 79 floor mixed-use skyscraper. In total the mall contains over 230 stores and even has its own dedicated bus lanes, at the center is a mall and an open space known as Albee Square.

Shopping and dining are not the only options available to the public for entertainment. The Downtown Brooklyn area is also home to the Barclays Center, a multi-purpose indoor arena. The arena is home of the Brooklyn Nets and the New York Liberty basketball teams and also hosts concerts, conventions and other entertainment events. on occasion, the stadium will host graduations for its nearby universities and colleges. The Barclays Center was also a part of an over 4 billion dollar future business and residential complex. The arena was brought forward by Bruce Ratner, and despite it being stuck in development hell for almost a decade prior, the arena finally opened to public during September 2012. However if you’re looking for something more modest you can also visit the Brooklyn Academy of Music (BAM). BAM is a performing arts venue, known as a center for progressive and avant-garde performances. The venue was originally located in the Brooklyn Heights and its first performance was in the early 1860’s. The facility was burned down in the early 1900’s which led to the facility being moved to Fort Greene and from 1906 to 1908 a series of openings would occur for the Brooklyn Academy of Music.

Some areas in the neighborhood seem to be empty, this is due to the city of Brooklyn rapidly expanding.

Downtown Brooklyn also hosts the New York Transit Museum, which displays historical artifacts of New York City; subway, buses, and commuter rail systems in the greater New York City metropolitan region. The museum is located within a subway station which was originally called Court Street and on July 4, 1976, the New York City Transit Exhibit was opened in the decommissioned underground station as part of the United States Bicentennial celebration. Old subway cars as well as models and other exhibits are displayed in the museum, it had originally not been planned to be opened this long but so many people enjoyed the display that it remained. The Metropolitan Transportation Authority had acquired the museum during the mid 1990’s which helped expand the museum’s display of trains. While it seems that Downtown Brooklyn went through a major remodeling that changed the landscape entirely, it still holds some of its old industrial roots.

Downtown Brooklyn is home to various types of cuisines. Whether you’re looking for something simple like a burger or even Lebanese food, you’re bound to find something to enjoy. There’s also plenty of shopping for anyone looking to take a taxi down to Brooklyn.

In the Northeastern corner of the neighborhood there is an area called Bridge Plaza. Previously connected to Vinegar Hill, it is a now an isolated region of Brooklyn that is a mix of garages and auto shops with a few warehouses scattered around the area. This was the effect of both the construction of the BQE and the surrounding area only allowing industrial zoning. Bridge Plaza is known for having a notable home (167 Concord Street) which is famous for being the only “pretty” house in that area.

Overall, Downtown Brooklyn has many shops and restaurants you can visit, not to mention the plethora of bars in the neighborhood. This makes transportation a priority when visiting the neighborhood and New York has many transportation options. The majority of New Yorkers opt to use the subway, and while the trains and buses might be the most commercially available system, New York offers far better options. By far the safest way to get around NYC is by car, and luckily New York City offers many car services and limo services to get around the city. New York City limo services are some of the most professional in the world, and they offer variety of services. If you’re planning a fun day of shopping, or simply exploring the city certain car services allow for an hourly service or even road shows. Other limo companies do long distance transportation, this can be from places such as New York to New Jersey, or even New York to Connecticut. There are also some car companies that can go from New York to Philadelphia, or even New York to Washington D.C.. If you happen to live even farther out, there are a handful of luxury car companies that can from New York to Massachusetts. Regardless of how far you may think you are, New York will always find a way to bring and tourist to visit, and the rising Downtown Brooklyn is a great place to find something new to do!

The Hudson Yards, Manhattan, New York City

Welcome to the Hudson Yards! New York City’s newest edition to Manhattan that spans from 43rd street all the way down to 30th street. It’s also located on the western part of the island and is currently going through a major reconstruction meant to reshape the area into a more modern residential and commercial area. This has actually lead to the area being seen more as a modern Millionaires Row because of the massive upscaling the neighborhood is going through. So don’t be surprised if you see a few residence opting to take a taxi rather than the train. If you’re planning on taking a vacation to NY then you’ll also be happy to know that part of the reconstruction has actually gone into remodeling the railway. This means you’ll be able to access all of the neighborhood with ease! The lead developers of this reconstruction project is Oxford Properties and The Related Companies, however most of the planning, funding, and construction was set up under agreements by the State of New York, City of New York, and Metropolitan Transportation Authority (better known as the MTA). There are also a number of foreign companies are large investors as well. This reconstruction is being done in order to expand the business district that is originally located in Midtown Manhattan. The redevelopment is being done right over the Long Island Rail Road train storage yard, located over the West Side Yard. The city plans to revamp this area into a what can be considered “the next step into the city of tomorrow”. While this can be seen as just fancy talk they are actually delivering on there promise. The Hudson Yards has only recently opened and despite opening right before the pandemic hit, it is doing well and slowly building its reputation within the city.

The Hudson Yards was designed by a number of architects who all had their own vision as to how they wanted to create the Hudson Yards. The main architect firm was lead by Kohn Pedersen Fox, who helped design the entire plans for the site. Other architects involved are Skidmore, Owings, and Merrill (SOM), Thomas Heatherwick, Foster + Partners, Roche-Dinkeloo, Diller Scofidio + Renfro. All these architects helped design the major buildings there, including office buildings and residential space. The office spaces in the Hudson Yards are occupied by well known companies such as CNN, Sidewalk Labs, BCG, and even a fashion company Tapestry. Construction of the Hudson Yards began in 2012 and the opening was in 2019 on March 15th.

The Hudson Yards was previously looked at in order to build a brand new stadium that was meant to be the home of the New York Jets. Not only the new home of the Jets but the stadium was also meant to host the 2012 Olympics. This stadium was actually in development since the early 2000’s and was named the New York Sports and Convention Center, the shorter name being the West Side Stadium.

Despite the plans eventually falling through because of legal and political disputes there was still a clear vision. Eventually there was an agreement between the local government, the MTA, various other investors, and the state of New York. This agreement eventually led the way for the development of the Hudson Yards that is known today.

Along with new modes of transportation being made available in the Hudson Yards there are also new stores. If you’re looking for some new clothes try popping into Psycho Bunny, Hudson Yards is even including $50 gift cards for visitors making large purchases, making it more than worth taking a taxi there.

The redevelopment and reconstruction of the Hudson Yards was funded by multiple corporate and private investors from all over the world. One of the primary investors is the Mitsui Fudosan Group, a Japanese real estate developer that has bought stake from New York City before. Mitsui’s had acquired the Exxon Building back in the 1980’s and has now invested up to $1.25 billion into the Hudson Yards. This investment is the largest overseas project by a Japanese real estate company in history. Following the Mitsui Group their are also a number of investors via the EB-5 investment Program, which allows foreigners, whether corporate or private, to invest a minimum of $500,000 into New York City real estate. Most of the investors via the EB-5 program are from Chinese based companies, not just in the newly built Hudson Yards but in many other New York real estate. This has actually sparked some controversy within the city however it is undeniable the good that the Hudson Yards does for New York City.

The new additions to the city via the Hudson Yards are meant to provide New York with new financial incentives. There is now a 3 million square foot commercial office space, 24 million square feet of new office space in total, in the Hudson Yards. 1 million square feet of new retail space and 200 retail stores along with dining and a 24 hour market, Mercado Little Spain. Among these these new stores include Dior, Dunhill, Faherty, Banana Republic, Brooks Brothers, and many others. The Hudson Yards also features an abundance of new jewelry shops such as; Marli New York, Messika, Monica Rich Kosann, Panerai, Pandora, Tiffany & Co, and many many more. There are also a number of health and beauty stores in the Hudson Yards, not just a Duane Reade, but stores such as Keihl’s, Molton Brown, M.A.C Cosmetics, Sundays, Sephora, and so many more. Sundays provides more than just beauty-care but also practices self-care and a “..wellness-inspired nail care…”. This is one of the many entertainment services that are provided by the Hudson Yards for its visitors. Some of the other forms of entertainment provided are done so by companies such as; Genesis Studio, Strictly Cycling Collective, The Conservatory, and a number of more. Most of these shops are spread around the Hudson Yards and in order to find were everything is they have a directory online. Finally there’s also 2 million square feet of new hotels, including a new headquarters hotel for the Javits Convention Center.

New York architects have worked tirelessly to create a group of buildings that can catch the eye of anyone taking a taxi into the city. Recently 15 Hudson Yards made the Arch Digest top 100 designs for its incredible structure.

The Hudson Yards most famous attraction is the Edge. The Edge is an outdoor sky deck that stands over 1,000 feet above New York City. It has spectacular views of the New York skyline and will even host events during the holidays. Most recent being a New Years event which hosts live music, champagne, and even snacks. The Hudson Yards will light up its buildings during the holidays, whether that be through Christmas light or the menorah down by the Vessel.

Apart from all the shops they have available at the Hudson Yards there are also a number of outdoor areas that you can visit as well. Development of the Hudson Park & Boulevard (Bella Abzug Park) was planned all the way back in 2005 and has lead to a new, 4 acre system of tree-lined parks and open space. This development was done in order to help transform the area from its old industrial neighborhood to new, pedestrian-friendly mixed-use district. The new additions to the park include, grassy areas, walking paths, farmers markets, and even outdoor movies. The park will also honor the civil rights activist, Bella Abzug (1920-1998). Bella Savitzky Abzug was a lawyer, social activist, U.S. representative, and feminist.

With the area expanding there was also a demand for an expansion of the subway line in order to get transportation into the Hudson Yards. One of the train lines that was expanded in order to accommodate for this was the 7 track. The line was extended from Times Square (42nd Street) to West 34th street and 11th Avenue. This was done in order to make the 7 subway line just a 10 minute walk from the Hudson Yards. They also added new ventilation buildings in the area in order to help keep the subways safe. The new additions meant that a new platform would be needed in order to support the buildings and parks.

The city has built a 13 acre platform on both the Eastern Rail Yard and the Western Rail Yard. This platform is being supported by 300 Caissons which can take the weight of the platform, the buildings, and the people walking around. The platform itself took a very long time to complete due to the nature of the build and the surrounding area. The platform being built over the railway they could only build for around 2 hours at a time.

The expansion of the railroad was done to help with the influx of visitors, with so many new people coming in the neighborhood there needed to be a manageable transportation service. Most New Yorkers opt to use the MTA subway system which is why the city had chosen to expand it. Though some of the wealthier masses of New York may choose to take a taxi.

While the Hudson Yards may be relatively new when compared to the rest of the high rises of Manhattan however this doesn’t mean it lacks in events. The Hudson Yards will often do its best to keep up with the holidays and Christmas is no exception. If you’re taking a vacation to New York during the holidays consider taking a car service to the Hudson Yards. Its incredible display of seasonal decorations and light up trees make it unforgettable for anyone visiting. The Hudson lights have quickly become a favorite amongst visitors, and with many of the surrounding stores offering discounts during the holidays, its a perfect spot for a date.

Despite the MTA’s best attempts at making a reliable transit service, its not as safe or reliable as one would hope. Most New Yorkers would prefer taking a taxi to get around however in this city its best to have a car service on hand. If you’re planning a day of shopping or simply enjoying the Christmas lights you’ll be happy to know that most New York limo service‘s can accommodate you with a driver for a full day of fun. So if you’re planning a visit to the big apple then consider taking a limo up to the Hudson yards, the combination of breath taking skyscrapers and classic shops will blow you away.

The Hudson Yards may have had controversy during construction and despite its difficult planning and funding it still serves as a vision for the city of tomorrow. Not just as with its technological wonders and fascinating artistic structures but it also leads the way to new housing projects. The Hudson Yards has its own affordable housing plan which allows people to sign up for a lottery that gives them a chance to live in the new buildings in New York City. This is another great way New York City is getting more people to visit the Hudson Yards. With all the stores and plazas in the Hudson Yards anyone can find something to do in the Neighborhood.

The Lincoln Memorial

Built in order to honor the 16th president of the United States, no vacation to D.C. is complete without visiting The Lincoln Memorial. The Lincoln Memorial is located on the western end of the National Mall in Washington D.C.. The Lincoln Memorial is a great visit for anyone looking to learn about American history! so if you’re looking to visit the capital be sure to take a car service to the memorial. The Lincoln Memorial is also built in a neoclassical form and was made by architect Henry Bacon. Along with Henry there were many others who helped in the project as well. The designer of the memorial was Daniel Chester, the Lincoln statue was carved by the Piccirilli Brothers, The painter of the murals inside was Jules Guerin, and finally the epithet above the statue was written by Royal Cortissoz. The Lincoln Memorial is one of many different memorials built in order to honor an American president. It has become both a tourist attraction and a symbol for racial equality since the 1930’s and remains that way to this day.

The Lincoln Memorial was actually constructed in the 20th century, this was due to many problems with how and where the memorial should be made. Another one of these issues was the lack of funds, despite people wanting the Memorial to be made most people would not put money forward for the idea. this eventually led to the project being dormant for a while until it was picked up again by Shelby M. Cullom, the senator of Illinois. When they where planning out the design for The Lincoln Memorial they took many details into account and one of which was Abraham Lincolns character itself. President Lincoln was seen as a very humble man, this meant that the memorial to honor him cannot be too ostentatious.

The interior of the The Lincoln Memorial is divided into three different chambers and has different columns supporting the cabin itself. Every single column is about 50 feet tall, 15 meters, and is over 5 feet in diameter. the memorial itself has many different symbolic features and structures, this was all done in order to honor not only the president but also the United States itself. some of which include; 36 columns to represent the states in the union upon his death, inscribed within the structure is President Lincolns principles of life. The ceiling contains bronze and oak leaf decorations, this is combined with Alabama Marble. in addition to this, flood lights were added into the roof in a way that could be concealed, this was done in order to counter the lack of light in The Lincoln Memorial.

The Statue of President Abraham Lincoln.

This led to the matter being settled through the selection of a simple log cabin shrine, after the West Potomac Park was chosen as the place to build the memorial. The memorial itself was built almost exactly on schedule, however there where a few changes through the build. One of these changes was to make the Lincoln statue bigger so it doesn’t get overwhelmed by the cabin itself, This meant that the statue was increased from its original size of 10 feet to 19 feet. Despite this sudden change during the construction of the monument it was still completed on time and was celebrated upon its completion. During the grand opening, many people where invited including 78 year old Robert Todd Lincoln, president Lincoln’s only surviving son. African Americans where also invited to the opening ceremony, however to their dismay, they were put into a segregated section of the ceremony.

The Lincoln Memorial is located in Washington D.C., specifically on the west end mall, and getting transportation to or from Washington D.C can be rather difficult, especially if you live in another state. Luckily there are plenty of taxi companies in and out of the state that provide excellent transportation services. If you are attempting to get to The Lincoln Memorial from a different state but don’t want to take a plane or train for privacy, some car companies can take you into Washington D.C.. This includes companies that can be from different states such as car companies in New Jersey, and car companies in Pennsylvania. Their are some car companies even farther that might be willing to make the trek if you’re willing to pay the fees. This can range from car companies in New York City, and car companies as far out as Connecticut or even car companies in Rhode Island. Most car companies in todays day are typically clean and inspected before there drives, however sometimes its best to be safe. This means that most people would rather take a limo service, or a black car service for more comfort and safety.