Although I've lived in Boston almost twice as long, I think New York will always be home to me. Mainly in town to attend the Armory Week art fairs, I managed to visit with friends and family, catch a couple of Broadway shows, and take in one blockbuster museum exhibit - see recommendations below.
Named for the 1913 International Exhibition of Modern Art, originally held in various US National Guard armories, the main New York art fairs are centered around Piers 92 (Modern) and 94 (Contemporary) on the Hudson River. A loose explanation of the difference between the two is Contemporary generally refers to living artists; Modern, older deceased masters. These lines blur sometimes depending on the exhibiting galleries.
Fairs are now held all over the world - Hong Kong's is finishing up tomorrow - but New York's takes place during the first weekend in March. Adding to the excitement, ancillary shows have sprouted up all over town. In addition to the two main Armory shows, this year I was able to attend several others: Pulse, Scope, Art on Paper and Un(scene). I was lucky to be joined by a few of our exhibiting artists - it's always fun to see what catches their eye.