For city aficionados with a passion for photography and an urge to share their talents, MyCityWay has the perfect ticket.  

Following our success with MyCityWay Now in NYC, MyCityWay is eager to start updating the other city-guide apps just in time for those much needed summer vacations and we want YOU, our loyal users, to dictate the photos that are used to represent some of the newer cities coming to MyCityWay Now.

These cities are: New York City, San Francisco, Seattle, Austin, or Chicago.

The winning submission will be featured in our new award-winning app, MyCityWay Now, as the city’s iconic photo.  Submissions will be accepted via MyCityWay’s Facebook page (via message) or by emailing Photos@mycityway.com .  The winning photo will be selected by a team of MyCityWay editors and announced on May 31st.

Oh, and if you haven’t downloaded the new MyCityWay Now app yet, what are you waiting for? - http://bit.ly/K3Ie9L

Now spread the word about the MyCityWay Now Picture This Photo Contest! That is, if you don’t mind a little competition. 

Make It a Last-Minute Affair

As long as it’s not a special occasion that requires much pre-planning, try pulling the night together at the last minute. Rush tickets and lotteries are available for most shows, and tickets can run as low as $20 or $30. Check out Playbill for the latest information on rush tickets, and brush up on this guide before you go.  Tip: Most rush tickets can only be purchased with cash, so make sure to have some on hand before you go.

Embrace the Prix-Fixe

While there are plenty of expensive restaurants in the Theater District, many have amazing pre-theater prix-fixe options. The menus are usually available between 5 and 7 p.m. and give you some solid choices between $30 to $50 per person. The Village Voice gives their picks for the 10 best pre-theater prix-fixe restaurants, and we’re big fans of Boulud Sud. Their menu offers three courses for $55, and options include charred baby squid, Tuscan-style hanger steak, and creme fraiche mousse.

Opt for Laughs Instead

Tickets for a Broadway performance will always be your biggest obstacle when planning dinner and a show on a budget, so perhaps it’s time to re-define “show.” Not that we’re dissing Broadway – it’s fabulous – but sometimes a few laughs can be just as memorable. Opting for a comedy show instead will save you big bucks. The Upright Citizen’s Brigade is one of our favorites, and its shows will only cost about $5 (some are free). For a legendary New York experience, the Comedy Cellar downtown is a must, and tickets range from $12 to $24 per person, though they keep a certain amount of free tickets on hand if you’re feeling lucky.

Take a Stand

Some might immediately write this option off, but it’s one of our favorite ways to take in New York. Put on a pair of your most stylishly comfortable shoes, and you’ll be limited by nothing (or you’ll at least save some cash). Along with rush and lottery tickets, most Broadway shows offer standing room as well, and tickets can get as low as $20. Just check the counter a few hours before the show. Continuing on with the standing theme, cozy up to a counter for cheap eats and watch the city rush by. We like to grab a slice at Bella Napoli – the Theater District’s only good pizza place.

How do you save money on dinner and a show in New York? Tell us in the comments.

V Bar: During the day, V bar is filled with local writers hunched over their laptops taking advantage of the free WiFi or friends grabbing a cup of coffee on their break. By night the downtown coffee shop turns into a candlelit beer and wine bar. It has an easy going, low key atmosphere that allows for conversation without having to yell (a rarity in NYC nightlife). Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner, V bar offers a variety of dishes according to the time of day. Their variety of tasty frittatas are a popular option for brunch and at dinner, they serve classic Italian cuisine such as mushroom ravioli and spaghetti carbonara. 225 Sullivan Street (near 3rd Street)

‘inoteca: Consistently rated as one of New York City’s best wine bars, ‘inoteca offers tasty small-plates and an extensive list of over 600 Italian wines. With large tables and a sleek bar, its a great place for after work drinks or a casual group get-together. Grab a seat outside for people watching on the busy LES corner while you sip your wine. 98 Rivington Street (at Ludlow Street)

Sweet Revenge: Whether you have a sweet tooth or a taste for fine wine, Sweet Revenge will satisfy all your cravings. Choose from their selection of a scrumptious cupcakes paired perfectly to complement an imported beer and wine. Enjoy decadent desserts along with your after dinner drink or morning cup of joe at NYC’s only cupcake, beer & wine bar. 62 Carmine Street (near Bedford Street)

Winebar: This East Village bar has a selection of 40 wines from Spain, Italy, and France to choose from, ranging from the ordinary to the exotic. But no worries if you’re not a connoisseur, their friendly staff are always happy to help! For an unbeatable combination, try one of their tasty flatbreads along with a glass of vino.65 2nd Avenue (between 3rd and 4th Street)

Sofia Wine Bar, Cafe: Sofia Wine Bar has an expansive wine list with over 80 international wines served the glass as well as exotic beers. On the menu is authentic Italian cuisine including handmade pizzas and paninis as well as meat or cheese platters.242 East 50th Street (between 2nd & 3rd Avenue)

Head to the High Line: We find that in most cases, the High Line is always a winner. You’ve got killer views of the city, excellent people-watching opportunities, and some semblance of nature. Most moms will love taking a stroll on the High Line, and it won’t cost you a dime. Tip: The High Line gets packed on the weekend, so if your mom isn’t much for crowds, this might not be your best bet. For information and directions, click here.

Eataly: If your mom likes to eat and you didn’t score a reservation, make your way to Eataly instead. The restaurants will mostly likely be booked, but there are plenty of vendors serving up tasty Italian delicacies. And the best part about visiting Eataly is wandering around the giant market, window-shopping the amazing food. You can’t eat it all, but gosh darn it, you can try. 200 5th Avenue (entrance at 23rd Street); Open daily from 10 a.m. – 11 p.m.

Brooklyn Bridge Park: For the mellow mom who isn’t big on crowds, Brooklyn Bridge Park is a stellar option. You can pack a picnic and escape the packed restaurants, and the views of Manhattan are always a crowd-pleaser. You can even hop on a ferry at Pier 6 to take a tour of Governor’s Island if you’re so inclined. Tip: Grab some grub at Almondine Bakery before heading to the park. Their croissants are legendary, but we’re also fans of the baguettes.

Japan Day at Central Park: Central Park is a nice place to take mom no matter what, but this year, there’s an added bonus. Japan Day – the annual celebration of Japanese culture in the US – falls on Mother’s Day, and food tents and stage performances will abound. So if your mom is a culture junkie or just a sushi lover, head to the Naumberg Bandshell area of the park, located south of Bethesda Terrace between 66th and 72nd streets.

Still holding out hope for a reservation? OpenTable has a running list of restaurants with special Mother’s Day menus and availability. May the force be with you.

What do you plan to do for Mother’s Day? Tell us in the comments.

Hours:
Mon-Fri 10 am – 7 pm
Sat 12 pm – 6 pm

Book Lovers can be considered their own species sometimes. They love the feel of sepia paper, metaphors and similies, and the calmness of wandering in a bookstore for hours. Even the smell of a book store brings them great joy. A House of Our Own is a place where book lovers or gift-seekers for a book lover can leisurely meander through a unique place that was once an old Victorian home. Find hard to find copies or first edition treasures to add to your collection without breaking the bank.

The Spirit of the Artist

1022 Pine St
Philadelphia, PA 19107
(215) 627-8801
http://www.sotagifts.com

Hours:
Mon, Sun 11 am – 5 pm
Tue-Sat 10:30 am – 6:30 pm

You don’t have to know who Rodin and Monet are to enjoy good art, isn’t beauty in the eye of the beholder? Featuring art pieces from all around the world is Spirit of the Artist, featuring art from prominent local Philly artists you can find not only art pieces, but art related items like center pieces, sculptures and jewelry. The store looks like a small exhibit itself, simple in its presentation so you can get an idea how to arrange these lovely pieces in your own home.

Omoi
1608 Pine St
Philadelphia, PA 19103
Neighborhood: Rittenhouse Square
(215) 545-0963
http://www.omoionline.com

Hours:
Mon 12 pm – 7 pm
Tue-Sat 11 am – 7 pm
Sun 12 pm – 6 pm

You can’t help but look inside of a store with a funny looking smiley face on it. It’s quirky in character and reflects the cute style of Omoi- a botuqie shopping spot in the Rittenhouse Square shopping area of Philadelphia. If you’re a person who loves to find items that are unlike any other, but are modern in style, Omoi is the place to shop. Give your stationary needs a much needed revitilization qith fun rollerball pens, journals and even non-stick scissors. You’ll find items for all sorts of characters and personalities, making each gift whether to yourself or another, truly personal.

Nice Things Handmade
1731 East Passyunk Ave
Philadelphia, PA 19148
http://www.nicethingshandmade.com/

Hours
Wed – Fri: 1:00 pm-7:00 pm
Sat: 12:00 pm- 7:00 pm
Sun: 12:00 pm- 5:00 pm

When your artsy-fartsy spirit realizes that you’ve got glue in places you shouldn’t, perhaps it might be nice to find something someone else has the creative mind to make. Nice Things Handmade is Philadelphia’s live Etsy store with items that really are hand made. If you don’t want to spend hours knitting a baby blanket, find an organic styled one for new parents. Items range in style, size and prize, and best of all- you’re supporting an artist who made it with love.

Sweet Jane Vintage
1820 E Passyunk Ave
Philadelphia, PA 19147
(215) 339-0882
Hours:
Tue-Sat 12 pm – 8 pm
Sun 12 pm – 6 pm

If you ever wanted to visit a vintage store with a personal stylish, look no further than Sweet Jane Vintage. The owner’s name might not be Jane, but she sure is sweet at heart. Enter the realm of her store and take yourself back in time to decades ago, every item speaks for the decades like you’re in a time machine. Find everything from 80′s leather to 60s Mod dresses and everything in between. Dress yourself from head to toe in vintage finds that will make everyone envious of your good, unique taste.

BellJar is full of "gorgeous little things."

BellJar: It’s a one-stop shop for “gorgeous little things” that include apparel, jewelry, accessories, paper, home goods and art. BellJar is the creation of former art director Sasha Wingate, and it’s become one of the Mission’s shopping standouts. Prices are mid-range – could be better, could be worse – but the inventory is diverse and truly exquisite. 3187 16th Street; Monday-Saturday 12 – 7 p.m., Sunday 12 – 6 p.m.

It's a candy store for fashion lovers.

Candystore Collective: Consider it a candy store for fashion lovers. Founded by Jennifer Jones as a 28-day temporary shop called Hot! in December 2004, Candystore Collective has grown into a dynamic outlet for independently designed clothes, jewelry, home goods and accessories. The jewelry is a particular standout with boho chic pieces taking center stage. 3153 16th Street; Monday – Saturday 12 – 7 p.m., Sunday 12 – 6 p.m.

Smell and feel great at Currents.

Currents: This bath and aromatherapy shop is perfect for those in need of a little TLC, and the selection of soaps, oils and lotions rival any competitors out there. There are also paper goods and accessories to peruse, but visitors won’t want to miss the candles and bath bombs. They’re luxurious without being overpowering – a rarity in the beauty world these days. 911 Valencia Street; Monday – Saturday 12 – 8 p.m., Sunday 11 a.m. – 7 p.m.

Get colorful at Dema.

Dema: Color is the name of the game at this boutique by Dema Grim, and the style is so effervescent and potent, you’ll feel like you stepped back in time to 1968. In addition to its retro clothing, Dema offers modern pieces from James Perse, Splendid and Velvet, as well as accessories and jewelry. For adventurous fashionistas, this is practically heaven. 1038 Valencia Street; Monday-Friday 11 a.m. – 7 p.m., Saturday 12 – 7 p.m., Sunday 12 – 6 p.m.

Check out the taxidermy at Paxton Gate.

Paxton Gate: For the wonderfully weird, this store has the market cornered. Merchandise includes furniture, books, architectural goodies, and jewelry, but it’s the taxidermy that makes it one of the most beloved spots in the Mission.  In addition to its extraordinary products, Paxton Gate provides landscape design and construction for residential gardens and commercial landscapes. Such over-achievers. 824 Valencia Street; Daily from 11 a.m. – 7 p.m.

Do you have a favorite shop in the Mission? Tell us in the comments.

Stay in style this summer with these fashion-forward events and exhibits taking place in Manhattan. Visit the MET for simulated conversations between two iconic Italian designers, Miuccia Prada and Elsa Shiaparelli, or head to the Fashion District for an insiders tour of the area and the history of the apparel industry in NYC today. If you’re thinking your not one for museums, think again.

Schiaparelli and Prada: Impossible Conversations at The Metropolitan Museum of Art

Schiaparelli and Prada: Impossible Conversations compares the creations of two Italian designers of different eras: contemporary fashion icon Miuccia Prada and Elsa Schiaparelli, whose fashion house was prominent during the 1930s but closed its doors in 1954. While they lived at separate times, the Costume Institute explores overlapping themes in the two designers’ works. The exhibition is split up into seven galleries meant to represent specific subjects that both women captured in their clothing collections. By focusing on these common themes, the Institute will create simulated conversations between Prada and Schiaparelli through videos accompanied by images and ensembles from each designer. On View May 10–August 19, 2012 I 1000 Fifth Ave, New York

Fashion, A-Z: Highlights from the Collection of the Museum at FIT, Part Two

The Museum at FIT presents Fashion, A-Z: Highlights from the Collection of the Museum at FIT Part Two, the second half of a two part exhibition (the first which ends May 8). Pieces for the exhibition are drawn from their permanent collection of over 50,000 garments and 200 to 250 years of fashion history dating from the eighteenth century. Focusing on designer fashion from the 20th and 21st centuries, the upcoming segment presents modern and contemporary fashion and accessories. On View May 23 – November 10, 2012 I Fashion & Textile History Gallery, Seventh Avenue at 27 Street

Mike‘s NYC Tours: The Fashion District

Get outside and learn about the history of the Fashion District and the apparel market from an industry vet who been in the business since 1965. Following the evolution of the industry by events like mass production, the sewing machine, The Triangle Shirtwaist Factory Fire, Mike’s NYC Tours takes you through a brief history of the NYC fashion industry beginning with Henry Hudson to the garment center as it is known today. The tour stops at iconic garment/fashion industry sites, including the Fashion Walk of Fame, and may include visits to showrooms and factories.

Cindy Sherman at the Museum of Modern Art

Now on view at the Museum of Modern Art is “Cindy Sherman,” a show chronicling 35 years worth of work and more than 170 photographs. This retrospective traces the evolution of Sherman’s career from the mid-1970s to the present and highlights the achievements of a great artist, bringing her timeless work back into focus for a new generations and audiences. On View February 26 – June 11, 2012 I 11 West 53rd Street (Between Fifth and Sixth Avenue)

Fashion Icons with Fern Mallis: Michael Kors 

Ever wondered what it takes to make it big in the fashion industry today? Join Fern Mallis, the award-winning creator of NY Fashion week, as she talks with industry icon Michael Kors. The two will discuss the creation of the luxury lifestyle empire; the man behind the brand. 92nd Street Y, 1395 Lexington Avenue (at 92nd Street) I June 6, 2012 at 8 pm

San Antonio, Texas: The Alamo

Plaza Guadalupe at 1327 Guadalupe Street at 9:00am
May 5th, 2012
Cost: Free

Dust off your old high school history books and recall that Cinco de Mayo is not in fact the celebration of Mexican Independence. Now that we’ve handled that, also note that another famous battle was the Alamo, 26 years prior when the Republic of Texas revolted against Mexico. Pay your respects to this fascinating structure, where a huge battle was fought- a hallow ground for many. Since San Antonio is such a big part of the celebration, it is not surprising for prominent guests to participate. The Alamo City celebration includes speakers like The Consulate of Mexico and San Antonio and other prominent figures that will recognize this 150th Anniversary of Cinco de Mayo.

San Diego, California: TNT Taco Challenge

3815 30th St
(between North Park Way & University Ave)
San Diego, CA 92104
Neighborhood: North Park
(619) 291-3815
http://www.truenorthtavern.com

Date: May 5th, 2012
Cost: 0 to enter contest, Happy Hour Deals from $2

With its wicked proximity to Mexico, San Diego is full of Tejanos, Mexicans and Gringos that love to celebrate Mexican heritage. All of that celebrating can sure pose an appetite for something a bit more carbolicious than a Margarita. Show off your taco-devouring skills at the TNT Cantina Taco Challenge, in which contestants compete to eat the most tacos.  These savory, meaty, spicy tacos will make your mouth water, but if you can chow down the most- you’ll make the bar’s Wall of Fame and most likely, an express pass to the bathroom.

New York, NY: Mex Fest at South Street Seaport

Pier 16: South Street Seaport
Saturday, May 5th from 12 p.m. – 7 p.m.
Cost: From $5

Go beyond the bun at Mex Fest at South Street Seaport: A Mexican Food Truck serving all sorts of delicious treats that will make you go OMNOMOM. The twist on this event is that many food trucks will join this celebration to create their own Mexican inspired treats. If your favorite trucks include Shnitzel & Things, Kimchi Taco and Wafles & Dinges- you’re in for a food truck bonanza. One ticket gets you a sombrero, and one drink. Or, get a VIP ticket and get 5 vouchers for the ultimate OMNOMNOM deal.

Miami, Florida: Española Way’s Annual Street Fiesta

419 A Española Way
Miami Beach
305-847-1401
May 5th, 2012: 3pm-close
Cost: Free

We know Miami is notorious for its Cuban inhabitants, but it doesn’t mean you won’t find some Mexicans or Gringos that want to celebrate Cinco de Mayo. In fact, Latin spirit unites on Española Way: a historic part of the area with fun bars. The main event will be at Tequila Revolucion, but all the bars and pubs will be a little Red, White and Green- for the sake of tequila shots and margaritas. Don’t expect anything less than bar hopping, tequila tasting and distant memories the next day.

Denver, Colorado: Cinco de Mayo Festival

Date: Saturday, May 6 – Sunday, May 7, 2012
Location: Civic Center Park, Denver
Time: 10 a.m. – 8 p.m. both days
Cost: Free admission.
Contact: 303-534-8342

Whoever said the best Cinco de Mayo celebration has to be in Mexico could stand corrected. One of the biggest celebrations happens in Denver, Colorado. The Cinco de Mayo Festival is an off the beaten path fiesta, but for good reason- there are some quirky events. Think your chilli brings all the boys to the yards? Test your Mexican culinary skills beyond Chips and Salsa at the Green Chilli Bowl Cook Off. Last but not least, the Chihuahua races always attract a fun crowd. Paris Hilton should consider bringing Tinkerbell to the Chihuahua races, perhaps only if the grand prize were tequila.

Forget what you saw on the runway, some of the most fashion forward styles have already been around for decades. While many New Yorkers fill their closet with all the newest trends, the secret to shopping is going vintage. Just look back on past fashion to get the most timeless looks. NYC is overflowing with boutiques selling second-hand so we’re edited your choices down for you. Here are our top picks for resale shops in New York City.

Second Time Around: Second Time Around offers the best in upscale resale. The premier consignment shop has been in business for over 35 years, with 29 boutiques in eleven states their selection of high-end vintage fashion fashion includes designer labels like Diane Von Furstenberg, Chanel, Louis Vuitton, and YSL. Shop for mint-condition pieces or put your own designer goods up for consignment and get 40% of what they sell for. Multiple Locations

Stella Dallas Vintage Clothing: This Greenwich Village thrift shop offers vintage pieces from the forties and fifties. They offer a wide selection of dresses in different styles from gold brocade mini frocks to frilly chiffon gowns, all organized by color and occassion. In addition to the racks of dresses, tops, skirts, coats and other clothing, they also sell shoes, hats, purses, and other accessories. 218 Thompson Street (near Bleecker Street)

Housing Works: Housing Works Thrift Shops offer a selection of upscale second-hand finds. Shop designers duds like Marc Jacobs, Caroline Herrera, Diane von Furstenberg and Costume National and all the while support Housing Works which provides all kinds of services to the city’s homeless men, women, and children affected by HIV/AIDS. Get a discount on designer vintage and support good cause, it doesn’t get much better than that! Multiple Locations

What Comes Around Goes Around: Stop by this SoHo shopping hotspot and score high-end women’s and men’s vintage wear. Open since 1993, WCAGA is known for their expertly selected collection of vintage denim, concert tees, leather pieces, western wear & boots. Their inventory includes a mix of contemporary brands including the What Goes Around Comes Around Collection and lines like Brixton, Siwy, Resin, The West is Dead, Wrangler Blue Bell, Alkemie, and Levi’s LVC. But upscale designer vintage comes at a prices, so this isn’t your best bet for super cheap thrift store steals. 351 West Broadway (between Broome and Grand Street)

Tokio7: Established in 1995, Tokio 7 is one of the largest consignment stores in New York City and was featured in New York Magazine’s “Best of New York.” They change their inventory of high-end designer men’s and women’s wear (i.e. Channel, Prada, Gucci, D&G) on a daily basis so there’s always new stuff to browse. Their merchandise ranges from from formal to funky so they have a little something for everyone, no matter what your style is. 83 East 7th Street (Near First Avenue)