As much as it may feel like 2021 is picking up right where 2020 left off, we are already in a different world less than two weeks into the year. Disturbing as the violence last week was—and the threat of more to come—we have seen the resilience of our institutions. Vaccines are rolling out across New York City, financial markets are optimistic, and interest in travel inspiration is at a pandemic-era high. Already we are seeing headlines like "The COVID Vaccine Travel Booking Spree Is On."

Another week brings some major stories—no in-person ball drop for New Year's, no Met Opera season—and also several opportunities for rebirth. Indoor dining is back today. New York's outdoor restaurant program will be made permanent and new rules will make cooler-weather dining easier. Continuing innovation will get us out of this—read on for more links of interest.

New York City doesn’t get much better than a sunny day in Central Park. Here are several options for your picnic, whether you’re looking for a DIY feel, a grill-out day with restaurant steaks, or a concierge picnic service.

A morning visit to one of New York’s wonderful museums demands a refueling lunch break. Some museums have simple cafes, but several have great restaurants that are worthy destinations in themselves. Includes New-York Historical Society, The Brooklyn Museum, Cooper Hewitt-Smithsonian Museum, The Jewish Museum, Museum of Arts and Design, and the Morgan Library & Museum.

There’s no reason to skimp on culture when you’re in New York. If you want to see some of the world’s great art works and learn fascinating stories from history, take advantage of the many free and cheap museum events throughout the city.

Museum cafes along NYC's Museum Mile can be crowded and expensive, while the rest of the area is mostly beautiful brownstones. But we’ve got you covered on the secret (and not-so-secret) spots for quick, cheap lunches so you can get back to your day of art!