What is the name of the private park in the Gramercy neighborhood that is only accessible to residents of the surrounding buildings who have a key?

In 1831, Samuel B. Ruggles transformed 22 acres of swamp in Manhattan into what is now Gramercy Park.

Once called "Grommesshie" from the Dutch for "crooked little swamp," the site was purchased for $180,000 from the estate of James Duane, New York’s first post-Revolution mayor.

Ruggles drained the land and created an exclusive private park, surrounded by elegant homes.

Upcoming Events

Experience the captivating world of burlesque in Manhattan, where vintage glamour mingles with modern-day artistry for unforgettable nights.

At Duane Park on Bowery, the celebrated Varietease show wows audiences with sophisticated burlesque, dazzling aerial acts, and a gourmet four-course dinner.

The New York School of Burlesque spotlights both rising stars and guest legends, offering a glimpse into the city’s ever-evolving performance scene.

The Jazz Gallery: The Trap Music Orchestra – Monthly Residency

Date: March 4
Time: 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Location: 1158 Broadway, 5th floor (entrance on 27th St.) New York, NY 10001

Admission: Buy tickets here.
Details: For more information, please visit the website here.

Jewell House Gallery Opening Reception Vol.16: "Inner Landscape" with Keiko Rogers

Date: March 5
Time: 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM

Location: Jewel House, New York, East 21st St.

Admission: Buy tickets here.
Details: For more information, please visit the website here.

Manhattan residents have excellent options for adopting cats, with the ASPCA Adoption Center offering convenient remote adoptions and Animal Care Centers of NYC (ACC) providing multiple city shelters, including in Manhattan, where many cats await homes.

Those interested in fostering can join ACC's Straycation program, offering short-term stays for animals in need and a rewarding way to help.

The ASPCA and Mayor's Alliance for NYC's Animals make spay/neuter services widely accessible through mobile clinics and affordable community programs, helping control the pet population while protecting animal health.

Business Spotlight

UNIQLO is set for major growth in New York City, unveiling plans for four new stores opening in 2026.

Three new Manhattan locations will launch at 510 Fifth Avenue near Bryant Park, 860 Broadway in Union Square, and the World Trade Center.

Brooklyn’s Williamsburg will also welcome a new UNIQLO at 187 Kent Avenue.

Photo of the Week

Gramercy Park