Spark Pretty

For a New York City history lesson, skip the text book and head straight to the source at the LaGuardia and Wagner Archives. The archives were established in an effort to collect, preserve and make available primary information chronicling the social and political history of New York City. The archives serve researchers, journalists, students, exhibit planners and others. Some documents the LaGuardia and Wagner Archives has in its possession include papers of several mayors, the records of the New York City Council, the New York City Housing Authority, the piano maker Steinway & Sons and a Queens History Collection.

When the holidays roll around and it's a family priority to watch the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade on television every year, you should really consider heading to NYC to see it in person. This world-famous event has been a major production since 1924 and there's nothing like seeing it from the sidelines.

The Staten Island Museum offers the perfect presentation of exhibitions that feature natural sciences, fine art and history. When you visit the museum, you'll be able to explore a collection of over 500,000 botanical, biological, anthropological and mineral specimens. As you stroll through the island's oldest cultural institution, you'll also find an art collection that includes works that span prehistory to the modern period. The historical collections and library on site include maps, atlases, early films, audio recordings, photos and archival documents that date back to the 17th century. If you enjoy history and the arts, this museum is a must-see.