Guide to Parents Buying Homes for Their Children in NYC: Millennial Home Buying Tips

A guide on parents buying homes for their children in New York City (NYC), focusing on millennial home buying trends and tips.

As a seasoned real estate broker with over 20 years of experience, I've navigated the intricacies of assisting parents in purchasing properties for their children. Join me as I explore the journey and strategies behind parental home buying endeavors.

Understanding the Motives Behind Parents Buying Homes for Their Children

As parents contemplate the prospect of buying a home for their children, they are driven by a myriad of motives and considerations. From alleviating financial burdens to providing stability and security, the decision is rooted in familial care and long-term investment in their children's future.

Navigating the NYC Real Estate Landscape: Millennial Home Buying Tips

In a city as vibrant and competitive as NYC, navigating the real estate landscape demands meticulous planning and informed decision-making. From choosing between condominiums, townhouses, and co-ops to considering budget constraints and amenities, parents must weigh various factors to ensure a successful home buying experience for their children.

Some questions to think about as you begin your home search in New York City include:

• Do you need a pet friendly building?

• Access to Public Transportation

• Is a Doorman important? What about Amenities?

• Is a renovation an option, or do you need move in ready?

The Process Unveiled: Tips for Buying the First Home in NYC for Children

Embarking on the journey of purchasing the first home in NYC for children requires a strategic approach and careful planning. From conducting thorough research to leveraging online tools and resources, parents can empower themselves with the knowledge and insights needed to make informed decisions throughout the home buying process.

Once you have an understanding of the types of properties that are available, what aligns with your budget and preferences, partnering with an experienced local agent is key to a successful transaction. Especially given the limited inventory in today’s market - agents have access to inventory that is not available to the public on search engines.

Personal Insights: How We Purchased Our Child's First Home in NYC

Reflecting on our personal journey of purchasing our child's first home in NYC, we delved into the complexities of the real estate market and navigated through various considerations. From curating a selection of properties utilizing Compass Collections to negotiating offers and finalizing contracts, our experience sheds light on the practicalities and challenges of parental home buying endeavors.

We opted for an apartment that ticked most of our boxes, but needed a renovation. This required involving a contractor to understand a feasible timeline and budget for the needed renovations to ensure that the apartment made sense.

Some important questions to ask yourself as you get to the stage of making an offer, and ultimately a purchase include:

• Legally, how will you structure the purchase?

• Whose name will be on the deed?

• Is the property going to be in a trust?

• Will I be financing any of the purchase?

After negotiating back and forth with the Listing Agent and completing the required Condo Board Package, I am happy to share that we successfully closed on the apartment and hope that the renovations will get underway soon!

Conclusion: In conclusion, the journey of parents buying homes for their children in NYC encapsulates a blend of financial prudence, emotional investment, and strategic decision-making. By leveraging millennial home buying tips and insights, parents can embark on a path towards securing a bright and prosperous future for their children in the dynamic landscape of New York City real estate.

Love & Luxury: Valentine's Day in NYC - Top Things to Do & Gift Ideas

Whether you're a seasoned New Yorker or a love-struck visitor, the Big Apple offers a dazzling array of experiences to make your February 14th truly unforgettable. From laughter-filled evenings to romantic gestures, here are some ideas to spark your Valentine's Day in NYC:

For the Laugh-Loving Couple:

An Evening with Andrew Dice Clay: Dial up the heat with tickets to the legendary Andrew Dice Clay's Valentine's Day performance at The Theater at Madison Square Garden. This iconic comedian's signature blend of humor and heart is sure to leave you both in stitches.

Gifts that Whisper "I Love You":

The Power of Fragrance: Scent has one of the strongest ties to memory. Indulge your loved one with a luxurious perfume from a renowned NYC fragrance boutique. Explore the unique scents at Byredo, Le Labo, or Kilian Paris, and find a fragrance that perfectly captures their personality.

Shop Fragrance Favorites:

Blooms that Mimic Art: Ovando takes a unique approach to floral arrangement, creating stunning displays both classic and modern. Quality and craftsmanship defines the brands beautiful arrangement. The store, dubbed the Botanical Gallery, is a experience not worth being passed up, and can also be rented for private events.

The Valentine’s Day collection is filled with everything from heart-shaped arrangements to iconic Ovando arrangements in beautiful pink and red colors. Our team favorite is the iconic floating orchids for which Ovando is known.

Beyond the Obvious: Unique NYC Experiences:

Glide Under the Stars: Take a romantic ice skating session at Wollman Rink in Central Park, with the glittering cityscape as your backdrop. Warm up afterwards with hot cocoa or cider at the rink-side cafe.

A Culinary Adventure: Embark on a progressive dinner date, exploring different courses at acclaimed restaurants across the city. From Michelin-starred establishments to hidden gems, NYC's culinary scene offers endless possibilities.

Soak in the City Views: Enjoy breathtaking panoramas of the city from one of New York's many observation decks. The Top of the Rock, The Edge at Hudson Yards, and SUMMIT One Vanderbilt offer stunning vistas and unforgettable moments.

Artful Date Night: Immerse yourselves in the world of art with a visit to a renowned museum like the Metropolitan Museum of Art or the Museum of Modern Art. Special exhibitions and late-night events offer unique experiences for art enthusiasts.

Living Your NYC Dream:

As your neighborhood luxury real estate experts, The Victoria Shtainer Team understands the allure of New York City and its endless possibilities. Whether you're looking for a romantic pied-à-terre or a spacious family home, we're here to help you find your perfect piece of the Big Apple dream

Treat them to the Ultimate Gift: The Gift of a New Home Together

What better way to express your love and commitment than by gifting your partner a symbol of your future together: a new home in the heart of New York City? One of our favorite areas to capitalize on the current market is within new development. Below are some of our favorite NYC new developments from Downtown to the Upper East Side.

One Wall Street

Experience the allure of historic charm with a modern twist at One Wall Street. This iconic Art Deco skyscraper has been transformed into a luxury residential building offering stunning financial district views, spacious layouts, and unparalleled amenities like a rooftop terrace, indoor pool, and fitness center.

The Lantern House at 515 West 18th Street

Nestled in the vibrant Chelsea neighborhood, 515 West 18th Street offers intimate luxury living with a focus on art and design. Featuring a unique lantern-shaped facade, the building boasts beautifully crafted residences with private balconies and access to a landscaped rooftop terrace, residents' lounge, and fitness center.

The Wales at 1295 Madison Avenue

Embrace sophisticated Upper East Side living at 1295 Madison Avenue. This elegant limestone building offers spacious, sun-drenched apartments with classic finishes and high-end appliances. Residents enjoy a tranquil setting with close proximity to Central Park, world-class museums, and renowned boutiques. A classic New York address with a touch of modern luxury.

2023 NYC Holiday Tipping Guide: How Much Should I Tip Building Staff?

The Holiday Season has officially kicked off. With Black Friday and Thanksgiving over, holiday decorations are going up across town. With the arrival of the Holiday Season comes the question on the mind of many - “How Much Should I Tip?”

Building staff in Residential New York City buildings have been essential to all residents throughout the evolving pandemic. Building Staff have been responsible for increased cleaning protocols, receiving and managing an exponential increase in deliveries, and checking in on vacant apartments for residents that have escaped to second homes.

We’ve adjusted our annual tipping guide to account for the continued inflation being experienced in 2023. Giving additional this year will be appreciated by workers bearing the brunt of increased prices. If you are considering giving more this year to your valued Building Staff and are concerned they will expect this amount in future years, consider stating in your note with the tip how grateful you are for all they’ve done during this challenging year to set expectations. 

Our friends at Brick Underground publish a go-to holiday tipping guide, which has been circulating since 2013. We condensed it, and put our take on what is appropriate as you budget for your holiday tipping. Remember, these are simply guidelines. There are many factors that can influence the tipping decision such as the size of the building (a larger staff equates to smaller individual tips), level of service, seniority, and time in building. Additionally, owning versus renting in a building can play a big factor as well.

Of course, if you live in a building with a part-time doorman, virtual doorman, or no staff at all, the below levels could be adjusted downward.

Renters: Tips do not have to equate to the dollar amount you are paying each month for rent. If you receive a lot of packages, have a stroller that is carried in and out of the building, etc., factor this into your tip. 

It is recommended that you tip in cash. Doorman, Concierge, Supers, etc. all of bills to pay like you and I- they are not looking for fruit cakes, cookies, or homemade gifts at the holidays!

Many buildings have organized drop off locations for your tips.

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Tipping Guidelines

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Super: $185-$235
Doorman/Concierge: $160-$210
Package Room: $85-$110 per individual*
Housekeeper: 1 Week Salary
Dog Walker: 1 Week Salary
Garage Attendant: $85-$135
Personal Trainer: $135
Personal Assistant: 1 Week Salary
Hairdresser: $90-$130

*It important to remember all the people fielding the large increase in orders you are placing and the sheer volume of orders they are now receiving, just for you alone. We are all ordering more online than ever before from clothes to groceries and meals. From Uber Eats to Amazon and every shopping destination in-between, there is no denying that we all place significantly more online orders than prior to the pandemic. We recommend tipping Package Room staff more than previous years. In most buildings it will be the package room employees, however, Doormen/Concierge are likely fielding these requests after hours.

When: Most building staff will prefer to receive their tips in early December so they can plan their own holiday spending accordingly. Tips account for a large part of building staff’s anticipated income at this time of year.

Top 5 Father's Day Ideas in New York City and The Hamptons

Father's Day is just around the corner, and what better way to celebrate than by treating Dad to an unforgettable day in the vibrant city of New York or the serene surroundings of The Hamptons? Whether your dad is an adventurous soul, a food enthusiast, or simply enjoys quality time with loved ones, we have got you covered with our top 5 Father's Day ideas in these destinations.

Father's Day Brunch in NYC

Start the day by indulging your dad in a delicious Father's Day brunch in the heart of New York City. ABC Kitchen, located in Flatiron District, offers a popular brunch menu featuring seasonal ingredients and inventive dishes. Another great choice is Balthazar in SoHo, a classic French brasserie known for its delectable brunch fare and charming ambiance.

Explore Central Park

Spend quality time with Dad in Central Park. Rent a rowboat at the Loeb Boathouse and enjoy a leisurely paddle on the picturesque lake. For a unique experience, visit the Central Park Zoo, home to a variety of animals and a fantastic opportunity to learn about wildlife conservation. Do not miss the chance to explore the meticulously landscaped Conservatory Garden, where beautiful flowers and serene fountains create a tranquil atmosphere.

 Golfing Getaway in The Hamptons

For the golf-loving dads, plan a mini getaway to The Hamptons, home to some of the finest golf courses in the region. Test your skills at Shinnecock Hills Golf Club in Southampton, a world-renowned championship course that has hosted multiple U.S. Open Championships. Alternatively, Maidstone Club in East Hampton offers a challenging yet picturesque golfing experience amidst stunning coastal scenery and also offers peaceful accommodations to stay during your weekend getaway

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Brewery Tour in NYC

Surprise your dad with a brewery tour in New York City. Brooklyn Brewery in Williamsburg is a popular choice, known for its wide selection of craft beers and vibrant atmosphere. Embark on a guided tour to learn about the brewing process and enjoy a tasting session of their signature brews. Another fantastic option is Other Half Brewing Company in Carroll Gardens, celebrated for its hop-forward beers and ever-changing tap list.

Sailing Adventure in The Hamptons

Create lasting memories on a sailing adventure along the picturesque coast of The Hamptons. Charter a boat with Sail Montauk and explore the stunning waters of Montauk with a professional captain. Immerse yourselves in the beauty of Gardiner's Bay, anchor at secluded beaches, and keep an eye out for captivating marine wildlife. Sail Montauk's experienced crew ensures a safe and enjoyable experience for all.

This Father's Day, make your dad feel cherished by treating him to a day filled with exciting activities in New York City or The Hamptons. From indulgent brunches to outdoor adventures, there's something for every dad to enjoy. Whether you choose to explore the vibrant city streets or escape to the serene coastal beauty, these top 5 Father's Day ideas guarantee an unforgettable celebration. Book your reservations, plan your itinerary, and create memories that your dad will treasure for years to come.

Memorial Day Weekend 2023: 6 Activities in NYC & The Hamptons

Memorial Day weekend is right around the corner, and if you're looking to make the most of your time in NYC and The Hamptons, we've curated a list of must-try experiences for a memorable holiday weekend:

Governors Island Opening Weekend

Kickstart your summer by visiting Governors Island, which reopens for the season during Memorial Day weekend. Explore the beautiful green spaces, bike rentals, art installations, and delicious food options.

 Dates: May 26th - May 28th

Location: Governors Island, New York Harbor

Brooklyn Memorial Day ParadeDate

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Join the lively Brooklyn Memorial Day Parade, showcasing a diverse mix of community groups, marching bands, and veterans. Celebrate and honor the sacrifices of our heroes in this spirited procession. This is one of the longest standing Memorial Day Parades in the country, and 2023 will mark its 156th installment.

 Date: May 29th

Location: Third Avenue, from 78th Street to 101st Street

Washington Square Outdoor Art Exhibit

Immerse yourself in the vibrant world of art at the Washington Square Outdoor Art Exhibit. Discover an array of exquisite artworks, including paintings, sculptures, photography, and more, created by talented local artists

Dates: May 28th - May 30th

Location: University Place, from East 13th Street to West 3rd Street

Watermark Beach Memorial Day Rose all Day Fest

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Pier 15 has been transformed into a Summer Oasis complete with tiki décor, seasonal drinks, and twinkling lights. The venue has a 40-foot bar and new cabanas. The Memorial Day party will endless rose and live DJs – more information available here.

Rosie’s Residency Pop-up Series

Rosie’s in Amagansett is one of The Hamptons most popular restaurants. After a successful winter series, they are launching their Summer pop-up series Memorial Day weekend. The summer series will feature various restuarants from New York City. Each residency will last for two weeks, and tables will enjoy a pre-fixe family-style dining format. If you are not looking to reserve, try your luck as walk-in to the bar where an a la carte bar menu is available.

Memorial Day weekend will kick off with Bottino’s residency. Reserve your table in advance via Resy

Dan’s Rose Soiree

The Hamptons kickoff event of the Summer hosted at the Southampton Arts Center. Tickets include tastings for over twenty locally sourced Roses from South and North fork wineries as well as around the world. Fifteen top chefs will be offering up bites throughout the evening.

More info and to buy tickets

Date: May 28th, 2023: 6:30-9pm

 Location: Southampton Arts Center, 25 Jobs Lane, Southampton

Make the most of your Memorial Day weekend in NYC by attending these incredible events. From paying homage to the fallen heroes to enjoying outdoor activities and immersing yourself in art and culture, there's something for everyone to enjoy during this special holiday weekend.

5 Best Mother's Day Activities in NYC and the Hamptons

Mother’s Day is quickly approaching, and it's time to start thinking about how you want to celebrate the special woman in your life. If you're a resident of Manhattan or The Hamptons, you're in luck as we are rounding up some ideas at the best spots in each locale. There are plenty of activities to indulge in and gifts to give that will make this Mother's Day unforgettable. Here are the top 5 things to do for Mother's Day in NYC and The Hamptons, along with gift ideas that your mom is sure to love.

Top 5 Things to Do for Mother's Day in NYC and The Hamptons

Indulge in a Mother's Day Brunch

Brunch is. a great option to enjoy the many fabulous restaurants in New York and The Hamptons and ease into the day

Treat your mom to a delicious brunch in one of NYC or The Hamptons' most luxurious spots. A few noteworthy options include The Plaza Hotel's Palm Court, Lindens, and Balthazar in SoHo.

In The Hamptons, check out Jean-Georges at Topping Rose House for a brunch experience she'll never forget. Additionally, the annual Mother’s Day brunch at Claude’s at the Southampton Inn is not to be missed! We’ve also curated a list of new Hamptons restaurants that opened last summer that come highly recommended as well.

Pamper Her with a Spa Day

If your mom loves to be pampered, book her a day at one of NYC or The Hamptons' most renowned spas. Some top-notch options include The Four Seasons Spa in Downtown Manhattan, The Mandarin Oriental Spa in Columbus Circle, and Naturopathica in East Hampton. There, she can enjoy treatments like massages, facials, and more.

Gift Her a Bouquet of Flowers

No Mother's Day is complete without a bouquet of flowers. If you're in NYC, head to Ode à la Rose in the West Village for a stunning arrangement. In The Hamptons, check out Sag Harbor Florist or The Garden at Water Mill for some of the most beautiful bouquets on the East End.

Treat Her to a Special Dinner

Give your mom a night off from cooking and take her out for a fancy dinner. Some of options in NYC include Le Bernardin in Midtown, Eleven Madison Park in Flatiron, and Carbone in Greenwich Village. In The Hamptons, don't miss out on Tutto il Giorno or The 1770 House.

Take a Mother's Day Getaway

If you really want to make Mother's Day special, plan a weekend getaway to The Hamptons or upstate New York. Rent a luxurious Airbnb or book a room at one of The Hamptons' most luxurious hotels, like The Maidstone or The Baker House 1650. There, you can spend the weekend enjoying the beach, hiking, or simply relaxing.

Mother’s Day Gift Ideas

If you and your Mom are unable to spend quality time together - the ultimate gift - below are some elegant gift ideas centered around the Home and Lifestyle that she will love.

Shop the gallery below:

5 Things to Do in NYC this Spring: Rooftop Bars, Cherry Blossoms, Hiking & More

As the weather warms up and the flowers start to bloom, there's no better place to be than New York City. The city is alive with energy and there's always something new and exciting happening. For New Yorkers who want to stay on top of the latest happenings in the city, we've put together a list of the top 5 things to do in NYC this Spring.

Visit the Cherry Blossom Trees in Central Park

After a long winter, enjoying the beauty of Central Park during the Spring season is one of the top things to do

As the weather warms up, the cherry blossom trees in Central Park burst into bloom, creating a stunning display of pink and white flowers. Take a leisurely stroll through the park, taking in the beautiful scenery and the fresh air. It's the perfect way to unwind after a long day at work.

 Enjoy Cocktails at the Best Rooftop Bars in NYC

via Warm weather is the perfect excuse to flock to the many rooftop bars throughout NYC

What better way to celebrate the arrival of spring than by enjoying cocktails with a view? New York City boasts some of the best rooftop bars in the world, and many of them offer stunning views of the city skyline. Check out hotspots like Westlight in Williamsburg, The Ides in the Wythe Hotel, or the 230 Fifth Rooftop Bar. Plus, they probably have some pretty awesome Instagrammable views!

 Attend a Spring Festival or Street Fair

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One of the best things about Spring in NYC is the abundance of street fairs and festivals. From the New York Botanical Garden's Cherry Blossom Festival to the Brooklyn Flea Market, there's something for everyone. Take a stroll through these vibrant events, sampling delicious food and discovering unique handmade crafts.

 Take a Hike in the Hudson Valley

The Hudson Valley is the perfect day trip from NYC and offers stunning scenery

While the city is great, sometimes you just need to get away from the hustle and bustle. The Hudson Valley is just a short drive from NYC and offers some of the best hiking trails in the region. Take a day trip to explore the lush greenery and scenic views.

 Explore the Latest Art Exhibitions

The Guggenheim is one of the top museums in NYC

Spring is a great time to explore the latest art exhibitions in the city. From contemporary installations at the Whitney Museum of American Art to classical paintings at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, there's something for every art lover. Plus, many museums offer free admission on certain days, making it easy to indulge your artistic side without breaking the bank.

Whether you're a seasoned New Yorker or just visiting the city for the first time, there's no shortage of things to do this Spring. From admiring the cherry blossom trees in Central Park to enjoying cocktails at the best rooftop bars in the city, there's something for everyone. So, get out there and make the most of the season!

Unexpected Costs to Prepare for When Buying a Home in NYC

Whether you are just beginning your home search in NYC, or you have conducted multiple real estate transactions in the Big Apple, it is important to be aware of or reminded of what costs to expect when buying a home in New York City that may have been glossed over when determining your budget.

Down Payments in NYC On the Rise

The initial investment or down payment is often the largest cost for homebuyers. How much of a down payment you'll need to make is determined by the property's value and the loan's terms. The standard down payment required by banks is typically 20%, however, this number is a guideline today as many lenders offer various mortgage products that have lower (or higher) down payment requirements. Because interest rates have climbed throughout most of 2022, some buyers are opting to put a larger down payment on their purchase than they might have when rates were 2-3% in order to reduce their monthly mortgage cost.

All over the country, the typical down payment is much below 10%. You may buy a home in New York City with as little as 0% down (with a VA loan) or as much as 50% down (for the most competitive co-ops).

Ensure to work with both your Real Estate Advisor and Lender as you work to set your budget, factoring in the type of building at which you are looking as well as current interest rates.

 Charges at the Start of a Loan

Most of the NYC buyers chose a mortgage as a way to finance their desired property. Mortgage rates have been fluctuating in recent years because of the Pandemic followed by high inflation. Mortgage loan origination fees typically range from 1% to 2% of the loan amount, with the higher number covering the higher costs associated with in-house processing and underwriting. If your financial standing is solid, you may be able to bargain (or shop about). If the seller wants to attract buyers in a competitive market, they could offer to cover the origination fee.

Tax on mortgage recordings

Mortgage recording taxes are assessed according to the loan amount, not the purchase price. 1.8% for loans under half a million dollars and 1.925% for loans above it apply to condominiums and one- to three-family residences, respectively. Since cooperatives do not qualify as "real property," they are excluded from this regulation.

Calculating taxes can be a daunting project, and you can easily get lost in the numbers. via

Reserves as unexpected costs to prepare for when buying a home in NYC

Liquidity needs after closure are another name for reserves. Cash, cryptocurrency, equities, and bonds are all examples of liquid assets. To convince the board of a New York City co-op that you won't have any trouble making your mortgage or maintenance payments after closing, you should have two years' worth of living expenses in liquid assets.

You can fund an escrow account with your savings as well. Non-mortgage costs, including:

• real estate tax

• common charges/monthly maintenance

• insurance premium
  

  The mortgage servicer may add these costs to the monthly mortgage payment. All of these charges will be included in your one monthly mortgage payment. Since just one payment is required, the procedure is simplified. The lender will separate the charges and pay them as appropriate. This way, you will know in advance what to prepare for when buying a home in NYC.

Paying duties on transfers

The seller is typically responsible for paying the New York City Real Property Transfer Tax. However, the transfer tax is the buyer's obligation when newly constructed condominiums or sponsor units are sold for the first time. If the purchase price is more than $500,000, you may expect to pay a tax of 1.425%, but if it's less, you can expect to pay 1%.

Moving expenses

Most people leave thinking about moving costs at the very last minute. So, moving expenses can come rather unexpectedly to them. Even more so because if you don't plan and end up moving on short notice, you'll have less choice in terms of moving companies and more bills to pay. If you're moving long distance to New York, make sure to look for affordable help, meaning, start searching for reliable movers as soon as possible.

Renovation Costs Can Add up Quickly

Depending on how well the actual property goes with your end vision, you'll need to adjust and invest in some renovations. Of course, you expect the major ones, but it's important to put on paper how much money you will put into them. Also, minor things like pet-proofing your apartment can come to mind at the very last minute, and you might end up costing you more than expected.

 Legal costs

When purchasing a home in New York City, you must hire a real estate attorney. The purchasing procedure in New York City is more complicated than in other markets, making the assistance of an attorney essential. A real estate lawyer's fees are often structured differently from those of an hourly rate law firm. You may expect to spend between $1,500 and $4,000. The most you should ever pay is $5,000. Avoid anybody who offers to act on your behalf for a few hundred dollars.

A good lawyer can help you with all the unexpected costs to prepare for when buying a home in NYC.

Warranty on title

Title insurance shields you against any financial obligations the previous owner may have left on actual property, such as a condo or townhouse. You must set aside a few thousand dollars to guarantee a clear title. In other words, less than 1% of the buying price). On a $1,000,000 property, this may cost upwards of $4,000. But your peace of mind is worth much more than that.

Final thoughts

As you see, there are a lot of unexpected costs to prepare for when buying a home in NYC. You need to consider all of these to avoid any unpleasant surprises. You can always call a reliable real estate agent and ask for help when in doubt.

Guide: Celebrate Father's Day in NYC & The Hamptons

Father’s Day is Sunday June 19th this year, and whether you are in New York City or The Hamptons, here are a few ways to celebrate Dad.

Enjoy an NYC Beer Garden

via Grimm Ales Instagram

Many are surprised at the number of beer gardens located throughout the city. Enjoy the June weather and some brews with Dad. Grimm Artisanal Ales in East Williamsburg is a cool spot that mixes up experimental flavors with a unique setting that features graphic art. You’ll also find work of different graffiti artists on their cans. They also have 160 oak barrels for aging sour beer…truly a unique find in NYC!

990 Metropolitan Avenue

Shou Sugi Ban House

via Shou Sugi Ban House Instagram

Give dad the gift and experience of relaxation at The Hamptons go-to wellness destination. The wellness program is inspired by the principles of Wabi-sabi and traditions that value simple beauty and healing properties found within the natural world. Shou Sugi Ban House’s spa and wellness offerings include massages and hydrotherapy.

337 Montauk Highway, Water Mill

Dinner at Kassaki

Via Kassaki Instagram

Enjoy a sushi dinner at this Water Mill spot. Kassaki focuses on Omakase sushi and Kaiseki traditions. A 16 course tasting experience is offered which includes the chef’s choice of three appetizers, 13 pieces of nigiri and a dessert.

670 Montauk Highway, Water Mill

Explore Governor’s Island

via Governor’s Island Instagram

Hop on the ferry to Governor’s Island to enjoy the many activities and exhibits. There are multiple events occurring over Father’s Day weekend including the NYCRuns Father’s Day 5K & 10K, FAD Market Pop-up, and the NYC Lavender Festival.

Merchants Cigar Bar

via Merchant Cigar bar Instagram

What’s more classic than this Upper East Side cigar bar? Treat dad to the special Surf, Turf, and Smoke experience. This will include a choice of a MCB 1996 series cigar, a selection of spirit tastings with choices ranging from scotch to tequila, and a curated dinner.

1125 1st Avenue