Are NYC attraction passes worth it? We did the math 👀

Hi again,

With Central Park & Prospect Park car-free since 2018, the push to expand to other city parks is, thankfully, gaining momentum.

And now..

In this week’s newsletter:

🎫 Events We Love This Week: April 8-15 - Hundreds of Japanese vendors this weekend in the East Village & Steal This Story, Please! special premiere this weekend

🇿🇦 You’ll Have to Check It Out - Unique dishes & wines at a cozy, family-run spot on the UES

🎫 Best NYC Pass for 2026 - Including a mini-quiz to help YOU choose the right one

Lots to cover this week. You up for it? 👇

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

And as a subscriber, you can always access all your free NYC resources here.

Events We Love This Week: April 8-15, 2026

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

JAPAN Fes - April 11 & 12 from 10 am to 6 pm

The world’s largest Japanese food fest is back in New York City, with two events this coming weekend! 🇯🇵

You’ll find tasty dishes like:

• Takoyaki balls

• Matcha lava cake

• Okonomiyaki

• Katsu sando & so much more

While there are events all month, the two this weekend are at:

• April 11 in the East Village at 2nd Ave from 10 am to 6 pm

• April 12 at Astor Place from 10 am to 6 pm

Steal This Story, Please! - April 9-14

Now, more than ever, the world needs more voices creating smart, honest, and accurate reporting.

Steal This Story, Please! highlights the life, stories, and reporting of Amy Goodman, co-founder of Democracy Now!.

Special screenings this week feature Q&As with Amy and the film's directors. Snag tickets before the Q&A sessions sell out (many already have).

You’ll Have to Check It Out - Kaia

Trying random restaurants you happen by is one of my favorite NYC experiences.

Kaia, not in our evening plans, was a massive surprise with delicious dishes, family-run friendliness, and a top-notch happy hour on food and drinks. 🇿🇦

The Pap en Wors Happie, $9 on happy hour, featured textures and flavors I’d never experienced together. Truly amazing!

Plus, the outdoor seating was a huge perk for soaking up the warm weather. This South African farmhouse restaurant + wine bar is a must-try, a perfect spot after The Met!

Check out Kaia on the Upper East Side here.

Best NYC Pass in 2026? We Did the Math

With hundreds of popular attractions to see, NYC attraction passes can help you maximize your experience and save money in the process.

There are multiple NYC passes available, and we’ll help you choose the one that’s exactly right for your trip duration, travel style, and must-see attractions.

Spoiler: Some of the passes can actually cost you more money if you don’t use them correctly.

This new article and podcast episode feature:

• Pros and cons of the top passes

• A simple comparison table

• A 5-question quiz to help YOU decide based on your travel preferences

You’re welcome for no April Fool’s jokes,

Ashley & Devin from Better Together Here 🥸