3 Central Park hidden gems you CAN'T miss 🌹

Hey there,

A quicker newsletter this week, but still plenty to cover.

In this week’s newsletter:

💖 3 Central Park Hidden Gems - Ornate gardens, deep woods, and a hidden nature sanctuary

🥵 New York Know How - Illegal air conditioning

🎫 Events We Love This Week: June 11-18 - Jazz festival and dance music galore

🍕 You’ll Have to Check It Out - Our go-to pizza spot after exploring the MET

Let’s go!👇

Note: As always, this email was written by an actual human who lives in NYC, not artificial intelligence. 🥸

3 Central Park Hidden Gems

We are lucky enough to spend more time in Central Park than 99% of New Yorkers, meaning we know the ins and outs of this sprawling oasis in Manhattan.

With numerous activities, attractions, and sites in Central Park, it can be challenging to determine where to allocate your time.

Luckily, we’ve got three unique places that will make you fall in love with Central Park! We’ve seen it all, and these are three spots you can’t afford to miss. 🎉

We mentioned Hidden Gem #1 in a recent email: the Conservatory Garden.

But #2 and #3 are arguably better spots to explore. 👇 

Events We Love This Week: June 11-18, 2025

In the city this week? Here are some fun events we’re keeping an eye on.

Annual Blue Note Jazz Festival - All of June

Blue Note is an iconic jazz spot in The Village, and each year, they host their renowned jazz festival.

While most shows take place at the Blue Note Jazz Club near Washington Square Park, the festival spans the city throughout June.

See the full calendar here.

Multiple DJs & Dance Music Concerts - June 13-15, 2025

New York City has a thriving electronic, dance, and house music scene. Whether you’re looking for deep club beats, melodic vibes, or something in the middle, the city has you covered.

Here are some shows this weekend we’re keeping an eye on:

• Two Friends @ Brooklyn Mirage - June 13

• Lane 8 with Four Tet @ Under the K Bridge - June 14

• Sammy Virji @ Forest Hills Stadium - June 14

• Eli Brown @ Brooklyn Storehouse - June 14

• DJ Koze @ Knockdown Center - June 14

• Boris Brejcha @ The Great Hall - June 15

• Tiki Disco, including Eli Escobar @ Knockdown Center - June 15

New York City folks - A playground for adults. 🪩

You’ll Have to Check It Out - Don Filippo

Over 44 years ago, Don Filippo’s opened its doors on the Upper East Side.

Originally a family-owned business founded in Brooklyn, this Italian gem moved to its current location on Lexington Avenue, where it has thrived and grown, becoming a beloved part of the community.

If we’re craving pizza before or after visiting the MET Museum, we go to Don Filippo.

While the interior is unassuming, all the dishes, including the garlic knots, are top-notch and served at a fair price.

Check out Don Filippo here.

All the best,

Ashley & Devin from Better Together Here 🍕