Central Park

Manhattan Moments: 7 Photos of New York City That Define Me

Cristina Cianci, Daniel Ford, and Stephanie Schaefer frolicking in New York City.

Cristina Cianci, Daniel Ford, and Stephanie Schaefer frolicking in New York City.

By Cristina Cianci

Born on Staten Island + raised in New Jersey + my love of the shore, loud talking with hand gestures, pasta (and my ability to eat it three times a day) = I proudly wear the Italian American badge on my sleeve.

Living in Manhattan during college was a whole other ball game. From thee hidden treasures I found and made my own to the spots I frequented as a kid, these are the seven I hold close to my heart and badge.

The Brooklyn Bridge

Day or night, rain or shine.

Day or night, rain or shine.

The Bethesda Fountain in Central Park

For those times you wish you were in Europe, but have to settle for Central Park.

For those times you wish you were in Europe, but have to settle for Central Park.

This View From My Friend’s Roof in Midtown Manhattan

Oh, hello.

Oh, hello.

Madison Square Garden

The best overpriced beer and hot dogs.

The best overpriced beer and hot dogs.

Little Italy

For some historic Cianci stomping ground and really good cannolis.

For some historic Cianci stomping ground and really good cannolis.

Caffe Roma

See previous description.

See previous description.

The New York Public Library

For some light reading and escaping the hustle and bustle.

For some light reading and escaping the hustle and bustle.

For more essays, check out our full archive