Bryant Park

History: Bryant park is a 9 acre park in Manhattan. It is located between 5^th and 6^th Ave, and 40^th and 42^nd. This is near the area of Manhattan known as Midtown. The main entrance is located on 6^th Ave. Bryant park has a long interesting history. In 1886 it was named a public place by the colonial governor of New York. This was unique because this was back when the island of Manhattan was mostly wilderness. The park was also a spot where Washington and his troupes in 1776. Perhaps the oddest thing I believe that this park was a graveyard. In the mid 1800’s it was used as a graveyard for poor people. I find this hard to believe, because today it sits in one of the most prestigious neighborhoods in Manhattan. It had another dark period in the 1970s, when it was taken over by drug dealers and used as a place to sell and buy drugs. Until recently Mercedes Benz Fashion Week was held at Bryant Park. But, due to pressures applied to the fashion industry, the major event is now being held at Lincoln Center. 

Today, you can visit the park for free. There are shops, and venders in the park year around, but the most significant time to go shopping in Bryant Park is around the holidays. From October 26 to January 6 there are 100’s of boutiques and shops, as well as street vendors in the park selling holiday items. These items are very unique, and make a fantastic gift for somebody. Now, since I will be arriving on the 6^th of January, I will have to make Bryant Park my first stop of the week. The shops usually close down around 6 or 7PM. Even if you go after the Winter Shops are closed for the season, there is still plenty of things to do in the park without shopping.

*Visit the Bryant Park Website in the “Links” page on my blog.