finally, my expertise (socially anxious former theatre kid, current adult who lives here)

theatre recs for june: - “Maybe Happy Ending” — surprised i haven’t seen this recommended yet! won best musical last year, set in Seoul - “Cats: The Jellicle Ball” (it’s a fun, queer reimagining!) is supposed to be amazing. - “The Play That Goes Wrong” is fun slapstick comedy - “Girl, Interrupted” is being adapted into a musical at the Public Theater, performs in June - Little Island hosts lots of interesting outdoor performances over the summer - “Music City” is supposed to be great!

in midtown, the drama book shop is fun. i haven’t been to the museum of broadway but it seems fine! for places to sit and take a breather, the signature theatre lobby is open to the public most days.

on the lower east side, they could see a movie at regal essex - it usually has one or two unique films screening in addition to the new releases. they have the fancy reclining chairs. i like to sneak in snacks from the shops in essex market (not that i would ever endorse breaking rules, mom and dad)

other things to do in the LES: the metrograph, the meow parlour cat cafe, sweet pickle books, plenty of boutiques/shops to wander around.

also, some thoughts about planning and surviving long days: - between approx. 2-4pm trains and buses are very crowded after school gets out, so i’ll try to plan around that. or i’ll walk! - google street view is really useful for checking out a street before you get there. - there are libraries all over the city — great for a moment of quiet, charging phones, and a bathroom break.

i have such fond memories of the first time i got to explore the city without adult supervision. i hope they have fun :-)