By DANIELLE ROMANO
Contributing Writer
Published: September 19, 2012

They say one is the loneliest number, but is that really true?

Whether you’re moving into your new dorm and meeting your suitemates for the first time or figuring out your new schedule and ordering your last minute textbooks, the beginning of the school year can be a very taxing time. Sometimes, the best way to get away from all the stress and clear your head a bit is to enjoy the wonders of New York City — alone.

Intimidated by the idea of facing the big city by yourself? Don’t be. There seems to be a stigma when it comes to doing things alone, but having some time to yourself can be a really wonderful thing. I sometimes grab lunch during my free periods between classes by myself. I can eat in peace without having to talk to anyone. It helps me to reflect on my day and focus on what needs to be done later. So if you feel like you need to relax and get away from it all for just a little while, check out these suggestions for fun solo trips in the city.

Like the outdoors?

Try Riverside Park.
72nd Street and Riverside Drive

We all know Central Park is a great place to get some nature time in the Big Apple, and it is conveniently located a few blocks from school. But if you’re looking to distance yourself from campus, shake up your routine with a visit to Riverside Park. You can escape from the city and get lost in its tranquil scenery.

Find a bench under a shady tree and read a book, or take a long walk or bike ride along the water. Running from 72nd to 158th Streets, this is one of my favorite places to go in the city when I need some time away. You can watch the sunset along the Hudson River and unwind.

Want to try something new? Head over to Bryant Park.

Between 40th and 42nd Streets & 5th and 6th Avenues

Situated behind the New York Public Library, this New York fixture is a quick ride away on the B or D line. It may be a lovely place to just sit and relax, but the park also offers many fun activities to try— for free. They offer bird watching tours, square dancing, Tai Chi classes and more. Check out their website and find something new to experience all on your own.

If you get hungry, walk across the street to Kinokuniya Bookstore (1073 Ave of the Americas). If you’re a fan of Japanese culture or anything Japan-related, this is your place: the store boasts a large selection of manga, movies and music, Japanese books and magazines, anime merchandise, and calligraphy items.

Then head to the second floor to Café Zaiya. You can sit by the window and enjoy the beautiful view of the park below. While seating can be quite limited, no one rushes you out and they have a good selection of pre-prepared Bento boxes, sandwiches and pastries.

Into museums? Explore some lesser-known exhibits.

Skyscraper Museum
39 Battery Pl.

Sony Wonder Technology Lab
56th Street and Madison Avenue.
Museum of the City of New York
1220 5th Ave. [at 103rd Street]

The most obvious museum choices in the city are the Met, MoMA or the American Museum of Natural History, and all three are fascinating, but there are plenty of other museums to try that you may not have heard of. The Skyscraper Museum is perfect for any architecture or design enthusiast. Browse the exhibitions and learn how technology, construction and historical influences have built and shaped the high-rise complexes that dominate New York’s extraordinary skyline.

There is also the Sony Wonder Technology Lab. If you’re into technology, whether it be programming a robot or designing a video game, this place is a four-floor, hands-on playground featuring the latest digital equipment and technology used in the entertainment, medical and research and development fields. There is also the Museum of the City of New York, which explores NYC’s earliest days and current history. A wide variety of multimedia presentations, performances and public programs keeps visitors and immersed and involved.

Roommates hogging the Xbox? Enjoy an alternate gaming experience.

Chinatown Fair
8 Mott St. between Chatham Square & Worth Street

Dave & Busters is overcrowded and won’t let anyone under 21 in after 6 p.m. Check out Chinatown Fair, one of the last arcades still around in the city. Enjoy some skee-ball, mini basketball, video poker, Guitar Hero and fighting games like Street Fighter. They also have TVs where you can play big name titles like Call of Duty for a small fee. If you’re looking for some alone time, this is a fun way to unwind and kill a little time.