While getting to the start line is a huge accomplishment, it’s the post-marathon celebration some look forward to the most! NYC locals and Volée members Sophia and Daniela fill us in on the best places to refuel, relax and celebrate your big accomplishment.
For your liquid refueling needs, one of our favorite local breweries is Three's Brewing in Gowanus, Brooklyn, which boasts a number of house-made brews on tap, cocktails, delicious eats (we recommend the excellent burgers and veggie burgers), and a gorgeous backyard to chill when the sun is shining!
If you're venturing out to Queens, our favorite is Singlecut. Closer to Manhattan there are a number of excellent craft breweries in Long Island City. Some great options are BIGaLICe, Rockaway and Transmitter.
And don't get us started on pizza. Try Lucali's Pizza - New York's best kept secret. Shhh. Ask Daniela for tips on how to get a table! Otherwise, you can also try John's of Bleeker St., Roberta's in Williamsburg or head down to Coney Island and snag a pie at Totonno's.
For another classic NY nosh, hit up Russ & Daughters for that perfect New York bagel and smoked fish. The LES shop is grab and go, or for a more relaxed experience try either of their uptown/downtown cafes.
For a quick bite on the go, pay one (or more?) of the numerous Shake Shack locations a visit for a tasty burger and concrete shake. There's a good reason the line gets so long!
On the sweet side, treat yourself to some of Junior's famous cheesecake! Obama approved! The Brooklyn location is a classic, and portion sizes are enough to feed that post-marathon appetite. There's also Donut Plant for your sweet breakfast (or afternoon) treat and Levain Bakery, boasting cookies invented by a triathlete specifically for caloric recovery! Trust the science!
And if ice cream is your post-run treat of choice, try Morgenstern's, Big Gay Ice Cream, or Ample Hills. Each ice cream shop has its own quirky NYC personality and is worth a visit.
If your legs are up for, hit up one of NYC's many parks - an oasis in the big city! Some of our favorites are:
The The High Line Park, built on an old rail line, spans the west side of Manhattan and offers beautiful views of the Hudson River. It's a popular destination on sunny days, so we suggest grabbing a coffee early in the morning at Ninth Street Espresso in Chelsea Market, and then popping over before the crowds set in.
Let's be real, miles 23-26.2 of the marathon are a total blur. After you run through iconic Central Park, spend a little more time exploring. Check out the zoo, the carousel, try a little urban hiking if your quads can handle it, or just take a nap in the sheep meadow.
Take a stroll over the historic Brooklyn Bridge (or hop on the ferry!) and then meander Brooklyn Bridge Park, which runs along the Brooklyn waterfront. Beautiful views of the skyline, and when you're done, stop by Long Island Bar for a cocktail and the buffalo cauliflower!
If you're feeling ambitious and want to escape the hustle of the city, head north to the New York Botanic Garden and get lost in the greenhouses and immaculate landscaping. While you're up there, take a stroll over to Arthur Avenue for a cannoli at Gino's, which is like entering a delicious 1970s time warp. Or check out its little sister garden, the Brooklyn Botanic Garden, right next to Prospect Park.
Whether you’re running or spectating, NYC has something for everyone! Follow along with us @oiselle #FlyNYC!