NYC Pre-trip checklist: 7 things to do NOW

Hi hi hi,

This week, a massive hairball will roll through the streets of NYC. And I’m only telling you so you know its path and can avoid it like your life depends on it. 🫡

In this week’s newsletter:

🎫 Events We Love This Week: August 12-19 - Coney Island Sand Sculpting Competition & first-ever US Open ice cream truck (free)

🧑‍🚒 You’ll Have to Check It Out - 7,000+ patches adorn this meaningful, cozy pub

✅ NYC Pre-Travel Checklist - Last-minute scrambling? Nahhhh

You’ve gotta fight for your right… to read this newsletter. 👇

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: August 12,-19 2026

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

Coney Island Sand Sculpting Competition- August 15 from 12-4 pm

While my sand sculpting skills begin and end at “I can dig a moat,” Coney Island’s Sand Sculpting Competition features top-tier talent.

The event is free and open to all ages (to watch or participate), with registration required for some competition categories. Winners get tickets to local attractions and even cash prizes.

Sculpt away! 🏖️

US Open Ice Cream Truck - August 17-21

The US Open’s first-ever roaming ice cream truck will serve up free soft serve, ice pops, and other surprises and treats across NYC public tennis courts, starting August 17.

With stops across all five boroughs, be sure to check the full calendar to snag your free ice cream.

US Open fever is about to hit full tilt. 🎾 

You’ll Have to Check It Out - O’Hara’s

O’Hara’s was transformed on Sept. 11, 2001, when its windows were blown in as the buildings collapsed. After it reopened seven months later, it became a destination for the workers at Ground Zero.

Today? 7,000+ patches adorn the walls, ceilings, and almost every square inch of available space of this welcoming pub.

What started as an impromptu decision on the 1-year anniversary of 9/11 has become a rite of passage for first responders from all over the world. 🗺️

Have a first-responder patch you want to contribute? They’ve got a stapler.

Beyond the storied decor, you’ll find plenty of seating options, friendly staff behind the bar, and classic pub fare and drinks.

Check out O’Hara’s here.

NYC Pre-Trip Checklist: 7 Things to Do Before You Arrive

Scrambling for last-minute reservations or show tickets isn’t the best use of your time in NYC..

So, once you’ve booked your trip to New York City, there are important things you can do before you come to help make your trip run more smoothly.

Skip checklist item #3 and your evening plans may end in disappointment..

Catch ya next week,

Ashley & Devin from Better Together Here ☑️

PS- Have a friend who LOVES New York City? Forward ‘em this email. 🫶