The Big Apple is your oyster

Many of us can testify that what brought us here was not just Columbia University—it was Columbia University in the City of New York. And yet, it’s become a running joke that Columbians don’t get away from the neighborhood enough. We fall into the routine of visiting the local nightlife staples, East Campus, 1020, and The Heights. The farthest south we might go on a given day would be Westside, and the farthest north would be Knox Hall, with Riverside and Morningside parks marking our lateral limits. Essentially, we’ve come to Columbia University in Morningside Heights instead.

But, if there’s any weekend to prove that stereotype of the “Columbian in the Columbia bubble” wrong, it’s this one. Students can indulge in the benefits of Restaurant Week, Broadway Week, and Off-Broadway Week. Ever wanted to visit New York’s famous 21 Club? Take advantage of Restaurant Week and dine for large discounts at swanky New York eateries until Feb. 10. Broadway Week, although it ends on Saturday, is still offering two-for-one tickets for Jersey Boys and Phantom of the Opera. Plus, Off-Broadway Week will still be running as late as Feb. 12 and a few simple clicks on nycgo.com can land a person the same price for tickets to less mainstream acts like Avenue Q and the Blue Man Group. No one will need to go out on a limb (or a loan) to explore the city.

The best thing is, after two days of wining, dining, and show-hopping, this weekend will end on a lazy Sunday—and not just any lazy Sunday. The Super Bowl will be playing, and the Patriots and the Giants will be gunning for the trophy. Settle back in Nevada Smiths sports bar in the East Village with your noisy fellow Giants fans and glut yourself with chicken wings, pizza, and beer while whooping every time the Patriots fumble.

So, Columbians, swipe $2.25’s worth through the turnstile and take the 1 out of Morningside this weekend. Make those restaurant and ticket reservations fast. But remember that there’s more to New York than the fancy restaurants and Tony-nominated shows. Remember the other places you have yet to explore, and the shamelessly touristy things you have yet to cross off your list. And remember that going out of Morningside is something we should all strive to do this year, and not just confine to a single weekend.

Lanbo Zhang recused himself from the writing of this editorial because he is a New England Patriots fan.