Kaisa Filppula: Top 10 Coolest Things in NYC

This is my last blog post and it is time to look through the experiences I have had during these three months. The list of the Top 10 Coolest Things in NYC was not an easy job to do, but here it is...

1. Brooklyn Boulders. This one is very obvious. I took part in their "T-nut parties" as a volunteer to help them build the climbing wall and I met a lot of nice people. BKB will be officially open on September 9th. If you climb, you must check this out.

2. NY Philharmonic in the Park. Definitely one of the best free summer events in the city. By sunset, Central Park's Great Lawn was packed with picnic groups. It felt unreal, but very comfortable and relaxing.

3. I Eat Pandas -comedy group. I don't usually like comedy, but this show played by two talented young women was HILARIOUS! They improvise three musicals based on audience suggestion in under an hour. And it's only $5! More details here: http://ieatpandas.com/ and here: http://newyork.ucbtheatre.com/shows/709.

4. Prospect Park. I would not say that I don't like Central Park, I just prefer Prospect Park, which is far more natural and less crowded. It is located in Brooklyn, but it's easy to get there by subway.

5. Rooftop Films. Unfortunately it rained so often that I got there only once. And guess what. It rained again that night and screening was held indoors. But still, it was something extraordinary. More details here: http://www.rooftopfilms.com/.

6. Central Park Dance Skaters. They have dance skating event every Saturday and Sunday from 2:30 to 6:30pm. Good music, interesting people and amazing dance skating! I saw them with my Finnish friends and we must have spent an hour just watching them. So COOL!

7. Cafe Crumpy. The best cappucino ever. I am serious.

8. Free Movies at Bryant Park.Classic movies are played on a big screen every Monday throughout the summer. Go early if you want to get a spot on the lawn.

9. Bookstores. I love bookstores. Especially Strand.

10. East Village & Hell's Kitchen. My favorite parts of the city besides the whole Brooklyn. My climbing gym (MPHC) was located in Hell's Kitchen. There, as well as in East Village, are many good restaurants and bars at affordable price level.

I have had amazing three months here both professionally and personally. I want to say thank you everyone for making it possible.

Slide show: Top 10 Coolest Things in NYC