Vacation Themes: Experience Jewish Culture in New York City

Each year, millions of Americans venture out for summer vacations, often searching for adventure or relaxation. Using a theme centered vacation provides for a unique opportunity to experience new foods, new forms of entertainment and even obtain some level of education in an area that you may have never experienced had it not bee for the vacation.

As a unique summer vacation idea, consider using a Jewish theme and travel to New York City where the experience of Jewish history and culture are alive and prosperous. In fact, New York City is believed to hold the largest concentration of Jewish residences, second only to Israel.

The Jewish Museum:

Located at 1109 Fifth Avenue, the museum's mission is to present to the World the scope and diversity of Jewish culture. With connections to the Jewish Theological Seminary, the Jewish Museum provides a view into what an ancient synagogue looked like and also provides some history and commentary on the Holocaust. Better yet, the admission to the Jewish Museum is free on Tuesday and open from 11am to 8pm

Shearith Israel:

Located at 8 West 70^th Street, close to Central Park West, this Synagogue was built in 1897 and is the oldest Jewish congregation in North America. Services are open to visitors and are conducted in ancient Portuguese and Spanish traditions.

For good Jewish food, while in New York City, consider visiting Yonah Schimmel's Knishes Bakery, located at 137 E. Houston Street. Serving traditional Jewish treats, this bakery services potato, spinach and even kasha knishes.

Beyond these two landmarks and dining experience, New York City provides numerous opportunities to experience Jewish culture and heritage. In fact, a trip to Brooklyn's Williamsburg, Borough Park or even Crown Heights, will give the traveler a unique look and experience into the daily lives of the Jewish society. Within these areas, as well as the Brighton Beach area of the Bronx, active Jewish communities are prosperous and continuing to grow. Within these areas, you can taste unique Jewish Kosher meals, engage in conversation with the local Jewish residents and even visit small boutiques for shopping while in the Big Apple.

As with any summer vacation, planning for relaxation, as well as education, will provide for the optimal travel experience. With New York City identified as a leading hot spot for Jewish culture, planning summer vacation to the Big Apple will be one you will never forget. This themed vacation is a great opportunity for individuals of all ages, especially for children who are middle to high school age who may have been exposed to educational curriculum involving the Holocaust, during the preceding school year. What a great opportunity to learn, hands on, the experiences and life of the Jewish community!