Five Cultural Pick Around Campus

It can feel overwhelming for students to tackle all of what New York has to offer. We have hectic schedules and tight budgets, but fortunately New York has many inexpensive and free arts and cultural activities everywhere, including Greenwich Village and nearby ‘hoods. Instead of sleeping during your break between classes, utilize that time to discover something new and refresh your brain. Here are five things to do on your long breaks:

1. Visit art galleries in Chelsea

Just two train stops away on the C or E will lead you to the neighborhood of Chelsea and its vast galleries. Showcased in renovated industrial spaces, you can find a wide range of art and artists from newbies to industry vets. Peruse a seemingly endless cornucopia of galleries all for free, a much cheaper alternative to museums. A few must-see galleries are David Zwirner, Pace, and Gagosian.

2. See a short film at the IFC Center

The Independent Film Center (IFC), on West Third Street and Sixth Avenue, is only a few blocks away from The New School. It screens foreign and documentary films, which usually run less than two hours. If you’re a movie buff, they have a special membership price for students at $50. Bonus: they serve organic popcorn. Look out for “Ai Weiwei: The Fake Case” on May 16, a film on the famous Chinese artist’s house arrest and lawsuit against the Chinese government.

3. Explore the High Line

Head to another free spot in Chelsea – The High Line. The High Line runs from Gansevoort Street to West 30^th Street, but the closest entrance to The New School is located on 14^th Street. and Tenth Avenue. The Meatpacking District has transformed from an actual, well, meatpacking site to a cultural hub. The High Line provides a scenic view of Chelsea and beyond, transporting you far away from the once industrial area. Stop at Blue Bottle Coffee, an eco-friendly, no frills coffee joint located on the High Line at 15th Street. And when the weather peaks in the high 80s, stop by Melt Bakery, known for their ice cream sandwiches.

4. Rediscover Union Square

Read a book, eat lunch, chat with a stranger, or buy fresh fruits and veggies from the Union Square Greenmarket (open on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays). You can also grab an iced coffee and a pastry from Irving Farm Coffee Roasters then head over to the square to watch a game of chess, or just enjoy the NYC scenery.

5. People Watch in Washington Square Park

For anthropology and sociology students, people watching can be an introspective resource or simply just entertaining. Catch live music, see skateboarders, nannies and toddlers, a new romantic couple, puppies – Washington Square Park is free ground for every type of New Yorker. In July the park has a series of free live performances. Past shows included baroque music, 19th century music, and music from East Africa.