Even for native New Yorkers, there are still aspects of the city that are often left unexplored. It’s our mission at Untapped Cities to help locals rediscover their own neighborhoods, whether it’s through our archive of articles or our behind-the-scenes tours. Join us in the adventure by participating in an event taking place this weekend:
Abandoned for half a century, the old Rockaway Beach Branch of the Long Island Railroad is full of potential, yet surrounded by debate. Although currently in a raw, undeveloped state, the line may eventually be transformed into the QueensWay, a public park that has been called “a more neighborhood-oriented version of Manhattan’s High Line.” Here at Untapped Cities, we’ve been following its progress for the last five years. Now, in partnership with Friends of the Queensway and Trust for Public Land, we’re offering a behind-the-scenes tour of the 55-year-old abandoned railroad line before it transforms into a new 3.5-mile, 47-acre park, lined with biking, jogging and walking paths.
Trudge up an earthen embankment and walk several blocks along the abandoned rail corridor in a wooded ravine in Forest Park while learning about the opportunities and challenges of the project.
Behind-the-Scenes Tour of the Queensway
Tour and Wine Tasting at Rooftop Reds, the World’s First Rooftop Vineyard: Sunday, September 24th at 12:30pm
Did you know the world’s first commercially viable rooftop vineyard is hidden within the Brooklyn Navy Yard? Untapped Cities will be bringing readers on a special wine tasting and tour at Rooftop Reds, led by one of its founders who will share their knowledge of winemaking.
Within the 14,800 square foot rooftop, you will see a unique urban planter system that is the first of its kind, developed with Cornell University and Finger Lakes industry leaders. As an added bonus: all guests will get 20% off purchases of Rooftop Reds wines. Get in on this experience early, as the first harvest will be taking place in October 2017. Take in an amazing view, lounge in a hammock, and sip on Rooftop Red wines in our tours. Please note that the wine served on the rooftop is from Rooftop Reds partners in the Finger Lakes until the first harvest off the Navy Yard rooftop are ready!
Wine Tasting & Tour of Rooftop Reds, the World’s First Rooftop Vineyard!
Secrets of Central Park Walking Tour: Sunday, September 24th at 2:00pm
Did you know that Central Park was once the site of a former African-American village? Or that it was previously home to an infamous casino, where alcohol flowed throughout the Prohibition? For almost 160 years, Central Park has been the green heart of the city, serving as a pastoral haven for New Yorkers and visitors alike. Even so, it still holds many secrets that have yet to be discovered. On this walking tour, we’ll explore the history behind some of its best-loved and hidden sites. Learn about the genesis, design, and evolution of the immense green space, while uncovering its many outrageous happenings, scandals and more.
Secrets of Central Park Walking Tour