Exploring Immersive Adventures in New York City: Hero NYC and Astra Lumina – Putting My Life on Hold

Welcome to the New York City section of my blog, part of my “Amateur Learns Aperture” series. Here, I venture out from my apartment to discover interesting subjects for photography as I learn how to use my camera.

New York City currently boasts a variety of immersive light shows. I’m not sure if this has always been the case since I haven’t left my apartment much over the years, but I’m thrilled to see these vibrant displays now.

I had a fantastic time at Hero, located beneath Rockefeller Center, right beside the ice skating rink. I was lucky to catch the Northern Lights show during its final weekend, but according to their website HERE, a new show will be launching soon.

My experience began with an introductory video before entering the main space. I visited on a Friday at 7:00 PM, and it wasn’t crowded at all. I enjoyed some rooms all to myself as I strolled through the exhibition.

Halfway through the exhibit, there was a small café where you could purchase hot chocolate and s’mores.

Next, I encountered the highlight of the exhibition – a giant cloud bed where you could lay back and enjoy a mesmerizing light show overhead accompanied by soothing live music.

As I left that room, I passed through an area adorned with beautiful flower arrangements before reaching the exit.

Afterward, I took a stroll around Rockefeller Center.

Now that I’ve developed a fondness for New York City, I must admit I like these Kate Spade taxi shoes, although I still wouldn’t wear them.

Lastly, I made my way to Lincoln Center to enjoy a free performance by the giant puppets of Théâtre de la Dame de Coeur, named Eria and Terrenis, who put on a delightful show aimed at healing our planet.

On a particularly cold day, I ventured all the way to Flushing, Queens, for Astra Lumina, described as “An Enchanted Nightwalk Amongst the Stars,” taking place at Queens Botanical Gardens. It’s a truly captivating light show.

Arriving in Flushing a bit early, I had planned to explore some attractions. However, it turned out to be the coldest day I had experienced in 2024 so far, so I decided against those plans.

I wandered around trying to find a café that sold iced coffee with bear-shaped ice. Why not search for iced coffee on such a chilly day? Unfortunately, the restaurant’s sign indicated “coming soon,” which made no sense since the internet mentioned it was already open. Thanks a lot, internet.

I was tempted to try a different café, but it was bustling with customers.

Upon entering Astra Lumina, I was informed I could go through the experience twice since it wasn’t completely dark yet. However, I was freezing and just wanted to go home. So, I opted to sit down and sip on some hot chocolate to warm up while waiting for darkness to set in.

The show itself was quite impressive, and I enjoyed experimenting with my camera when it cooperated! I was excited to learn how to take photos in manual mode at night without needing a flash.

And speaking of my camera journey, I struggled to figure out how to shoot video with it. Eventually, I broke my “no phone” rule and filmed some clips with my smartphone. Determined, I went home to learn video skills. Surprisingly, I realized I simply hadn’t pressed the video button. It was that easy!

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