tickets. By Erica and Karen

Thinking about what you want to do today, now that the pandemic and the weather are cooperating? Here’s our running list—-some pre-pandemic go-to’s that are always good to go and some new to look forward to.

1. Carve out a section of your city or a neighborhood—yours or someone else’s—and plot out a walk to cover every street and every block. Figure out how far you want to go every day, and take it bit by bit, or do it all in one chunk. Do some research if it suits. Or don’t. Then walk, up and down, back and forth. You will be amazed what you notice for the first time on streets you walk every day, and find windows into new neighborhoods you didn’t know were there. No matter how familiar you think the familiar is, you’ll find it’s like stepping into the river again. It’s different every time.

2. Think beautiful outdoor spaces that haven’t been on your pandemic rounds. If you’re in the New York vicinity, when were you last at the Conservatory Garden in Central Park? It’s on the East Side between 104th and 106th and its three gardens—Center, North and South—are gorgeous. Don’t miss the Vanderbilt Gate at the main entrance. Spur of the moment is fine; no tickets required.

3. Speaking of gardens, don’t forget formal ones. For example, the NY Botanical Garden in the Bronx, and its Enid Haupt Conservatory, is the perfect spring surround for a stroll by yourself or with a friend. Makes the mind and heart happy. Especially now, with blossoming trees and Kusama. You need timed tickets.

4. In our neck of the woods, and we’re sure in yours too, there’s a lot coming up to get excited about. Broadway tickets are going on sale as of May 6, for show openings beginning September 14. On May 7, the Guggenheim Museum opens a photography exhibit by Deana Lawson, the first photographer to win the Hugo Boss Prize. Tickets needed. If you like photography, there’s an exhibit at the Jewish Museum that will make you smile and remind you of your youth. It’s called “Modern Look: Photography and the American Magazine.” Open until July 11 so get tickets soon.

5. Finally, if you just want to do something fun, a merry-go-round could hit the spot. Jane’s Carousel in Brooklyn Bridge Park will begin summer hours six days a week on May 17th. The views are spectacular, and you can cap off your ride with the fabulous nearby food. The River Cafe, of course. The Osprey and Harriet’s Rooftop at 1 Brooklyn Bridge Hotel. Very good and very cool. Luke’s Lobster at the Fulton Ferry Landing—who doesn’t love a lobster roll? And, last but never least, enjoy a Fornino pizza. We hope you have a carousel nearby. There’s nothing like throwing your leg over that horse and pretending you’re Annie Oakley or Dale Rogers. Remember them?

Outings are always good. And now, better than ever.