New York Labor Day Planner 2009
Updated: September 08, 2009
You’ve no choice but to say goodbye to summer and white clothing when Labor Day (Sep. 7, 2009) rolls around, but you can at least say goodbye in style. Plan your long weekend with our guide to the best discount shopping, outdoor restaurants and bars and, of course, outdoor spots to soak up those last rays. As you relax, cocktail in hand, take a minute to pay homage to Labor Day itself--it was born right here in New York, after a city labor union sought to establish a government-sanctioned day off for the working man--and enjoy your well-deserved break to celebrate the unofficial end of summer. (Photo: Prospect Park)
On this page:Labor Day Shopping, Outdoor Food and Booze, Labor Day Events and Outings.
Labor Day Shopping
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Apple Store
Read Reviews401 W 14th St, New York, NY 10014 (map)
Now that the iPhone 3GS madness has subsided (somewhat), shopping for a new laptop or iPod should prove more peaceful.
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Atrium
Read Reviews644 Broadway, New York, NY 10012 (map)
Stock up on the latest trends at this Soho staple, where street wear meets the runway.
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Bloomingdale's Inc
Read Reviews1000 3rd Ave, New York, NY 10022 (map)
The holiday weekend crowds at this midtown shopping mecca are a lot more tolerable when you consider the oodles of sales and savings that await inside.
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Opening Ceremony
Read Reviews35 Howard St, New York, NY 10013 (map)
This downtown favorite of in-the-know fashionistas showcases hip duds made by young, emerging designers from all over the world.
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Woodbury Common Premium Outlets
Write a review498 Red Apple Ct, Central Valley, NY 10917 (map)
Warning: A day trip to this massive outlet mall may lead to piles of designer clothes purchased at heavily discounted prices.
Outdoor Food and Booze
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230 Fifth
Read Reviews230 Fifth Ave, New York, NY 10001 (map)
This sprawling rooftop hot spot brings outdoor boozing to new heights--literally. Located above Madison Square Park, it’s a go-to destination for city views and tasty booze.
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Blue Water Grill
Read Reviews31 Union Sq W, New York, NY 10003 (map)
Coveted tables prime for people-watching line the exterior of this landmark Union Square seafood spot, where the scene is as fresh as the fish.
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Boat Basin Cafe
Read ReviewsW 79th St, New York, NY 10024 (map)
City noise is overtaken by the breeze at this casual outdoor atrium overlooking the Hudson River. Enjoy the magnificent views and the refreshingly low-key all-American menu on a lazy Monday afternoon.
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Bohemian Hall Beer Garden
Read Reviews29-19 24th Ave, Astoria, NY 11102 (map)
An Astoria mainstay that boasts a green, spacious expanse Manhattanites can only dream about, with tree-shaded picnic tables and a small bandshell where live acts often take the stage.
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Frankies 457
Read Reviews457 Court St, Brooklyn, NY 11231 (map)
This Brooklyn resto’s Italian cuisine is some of the city’s best, and it’s even more enjoyable from the comfort of the charming backyard.
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Harry's At Water Taxi Beach
Read Reviews2-01 Borden Ave, Long Island City, NY 11101 (map)
Booze, music and some of the best hamburgers in town at this full-on beach party along the East River.
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Hudson Terrace
Read Reviews621 W 46th St, New York, NY 10036 (map)
Panoramic views of the Hudson and tasty specialty cocktails combine at this vast rooftop bar and lounge in midtown.
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La Bottega
Read Reviews363 W 16th St, New York, NY 10011 (map)
Nibble on thin crust pizza from the wood-burning oven while sipping a carafe of wine at one of the breezy outdoor tables at this Meatpacking District hot spot.
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Nathan's Famous
Read Reviews1310 Surf Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11224 (map)
There's still time to enjoy a hot dog at Coney Island's quintessential beachside restaurant, which epitomizes summer in New York.
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River Cafe
Read Reviews1 Water St, Brooklyn, NY 11201 (map)
When it comes to waterfront dining in New York, this famed eatery located at the base of the Brooklyn Bridge can’t be beat.
Labor Day Events and Outings
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Central Park: Loeb Boathouse
Read ReviewsCentral Park Lake off East Dr, New York, NY 10003 (map)
Perched on the easternmost corner of the lake, this urban oasis is filled with cool weekend options. Rent a rowboat, go for a gondola ride or just take in the beauty of Central Park in late summer.
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Citi Field
Read Reviews12301 Roosevelt Ave, Flushing, NY 11368 (map)
Celebrate Labor Day by partaking in a great American pastime at the fancy new Queens stadium. The Mets will take on the Chicago Cubs in a three-game series that kicks off Sep. 4 and ends Sep. 6.
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Marfa
Read Reviews101 E 2nd St, New York, NY 10009 (map)
For $15, enjoy all-you-can-eat west Texas inspired barbecue on the rooftop of this Prospect Park spot, from 5pm onwards. The cover charge also includes a shot of Marfa's house-infused tequila. The only reason not to binge on chicken, ribs, pork and mac 'n' cheese? Cause you want to get sloshed. Somehow, though, we think you can figure out how to do both.
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Prospect Park
Read Reviews3rd St and Prospect Park W, Brooklyn, NY 11215 (map)
The bike path surrounding this massive Brooklyn park is a two-wheeler's paradise. Ride over with a friend and circle the green lawn, then break for a picnic or a game of Frisbee.
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Riverside Park
Read ReviewsRiverside Drive, New York, NY 10115 (map)
Spanning four miles along the Hudson, this Upper West Side park has several meadows and grassy nooks that are perfect for a picnic. After your meal, take a stroll through one of the park’s 83 community gardens or rediscover your youth at one of the playgrounds.
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State Armory
Write a review643 Park Ave, New York, NY 10065 (map)
The seventh annual Great World Beer Festival (aka Brewtopia) will be held at the Park Avenue Armory between (Sep. 4 - Sep. 6). Get your tickets online and sample products from dozens of breweries ($45-$60).
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Wolfe's Pond Park and Beach
Read ReviewsHylan Blvd and Cornelia Ave, Staten Island, NY 10308 (map)
Many New Yorkers (even natives) have never even been to Staten Island. Taking the free ferry to this outdoor gem is a great way to take advantage of the last days of summer without spending a dime.
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