Cloistered Up

The Cloisters - Fort Tryon Park, New York

Lest one think the only reason I trudged to NYC was for a cracktastic burrito I offer these photos as proof that I have *slightly* more cultural taste than that. Located on the northern tip of Manhattan among the granite outcroppings of Fort Tryon Park is a branch of the Metropolitan Museum of Art. The Cloisters contain a large collection of medieval artwork housed in a specially constructed building that recreates the environs in which the art was originally used. Quite amazing.

The Gothic Chapel at the Cloisters. [For a Yalie it feels like home.]

Speaking of environs, the park itself is pretty incredible. Located in the Hudson Heights neighborhood [just north of Washington Heights of 'In the Heights' fame], only the perpetual sound of traffic along Henry Hudson parkway at the base of the ridge and the occasional helicopter overhead remind you that you are still indeed in The City. With stately cloisters and the quiet grounds, this is a great place to get away from it all. 

The Structurally Honest George Washington Bridge

It is also a great place to scam [perhaps an overstatement] the powers that be. Shockingly parking in the, uh, park is free and allowed until midnight. Therefore, should one visit the park and suddenly need to, oh I don't know, hop the A-train downtown for an impromptu whatchamahoozie, one could theoretically park one's car in Manhattan for free for a day. Not that I'd know anything about that. From there it is also a quick trip North to dinner with friends in Bronxville. True Story. 

All in all, it makes for a good day trip away from the Haven.