Manhattan has its first beach! In another first, Wegman’s opens in Manhattan next week! And for a mere $13.5 million you could own Oleg Cassini’s Gramercy Park townhouse. Our roving photographer captured incredible fall photos in Quebec last weekend, like the one above. Fall foliage comes to Central Park soon, and we have the best locations for Instagram photos. And our Tomatoes Got Talent show this week was simply amazing. Look for full coverage and videos next week.

A Beach Comes to Manhattan

Nestled between the bustling streets of Gansevoort and Little West 12th there’s now a beach at Gansevoort Peninsula! It boasts a generous 1,200 tons of sand and beachgoers can bask in the sun under beach umbrellas or lounge in Adirondack-style chairs. There’s a large picnic area, complete with tables and benches, overlooking the river, and there’s even a boardwalk. While swimming is prohibited a misting feature is available or a quick cooldown.

The boardwalk, beautifully adorned with a charming Pine Grove, connects with the western esplanade, once the location of Manhattan’s Thirteenth Avenue, offering historical significance to this contemporary gem.

A Glimpse into History… Gansevoort Peninsula also offers a fascinating glimpse into the past. Did you know that Manhattan once had a well-used Thirteenth Avenue? Stretching from Bloomfield Street on what is now the Gansevoort Peninsula north to 23rd Street, this avenue once played a crucial role in Manhattan’s maritime history. However, as time passed, a one-block stretch of Thirteenth Avenue was the only remnant of this historical road. Thankfully, this last vestige has been thoughtfully incorporated into the design of the Gansevoort Peninsula, preserving the legacy of the area’s maritime history. Get the details.

Fall Comes to Central Park

Autumn in Central Park is a breathtaking spectacle that enchants the senses and warms the soul. As the leaves transition into a vivid tapestry of reds, oranges, and yellows, the park becomes a mesmerizing wonderland. Crisp air, the sound of leaves under our feet, and sunlight filters casting dappled patterns on the meandering paths and the shimmering waters of the park’s iconic lakes. And check out the 9 picture perfect photo spots.

Welcome Wegmans!

Following the opening of Wegman’s in Brooklyn in 2019, the beloved supermarket finally comes to Manhattan at Astor Place. The 87,500 sq. ft. store, located at 770 Broadway, will open at 9 a.m. on Wednesday, October 18. More than 600 newly hired employees will help create a one-of-a-kind shopping experience in the store’s warm and welcoming atmosphere that reflects the original architecture of the historic Wannamaker building. It also has an onsite dining room.

The store has an extensive restaurant foods selection, prepared by Executive Chef David Lopatynski and his culinary staff, include fresh sushi, fresh-made salads, sandwiches, hot sandwiches, soups, pizza, and wings, as well as hot Asian cuisine options. Ready-to-eat and ready-to-heat options feature a wide selection of entrees and sides for both individuals and families.

The onsite dining room, featuring a Sushi Bar and Champagne-Oyster Bar at Astor Place, will be opening in the first half of 2024. The Astor Place store will be the second in New York City following the 2019 opening of Wegmans Brooklyn. GET THE DETAILS.

Oleg Cassini’s Townhouse

For a cool $14 million it could be yours. According to the Robb report, “The lavish Gramercy Park abode, also known as the Joseph B. Thomas House, is one of New York City’s last remaining architecturally significant townhouses.” It dates back to the 17th century, and features five stories, 7,000 square feet, stained glass windows, 7 foot high fireplaces, six bedrooms, five-and-a-half baths, a gourmet chef’s kitchen with a dumbwaiter, a formal dining room, and a wine cellar. Check out the photos and swoon.

Roving in Quebec

Our roving photographer, Nicole Freezer Rubens spent Canadian Thanksgiving at her cottage in Quebec. Here’s what she says: 

Over the long weekend last weekend, I returned to our cottage in Quebec for a fall visit. It was also a holiday there, Canadian Thanksgiving. Although it rained for three days straight, the landscape was undeniably somber and beautiful, rich in color and damp but bold and soothing.

Farewell to cottage life for the season. Until we meet again….

~Nicole Freezer Rubens is the author of poetry/photo book, “The Long Pause and the Short Breath.” Follow her on https://www.instagram.com/nfrconsult/