Forbidden Planet
Old-school comic book fans have lots of options to choose from in New York, but Forbidden Planet, located close to Union Square in Manhattan, is in a league of its own. Home to one of the largest selection of comics, graphic novels and other collectibles in the world, this place is almost guaranteed to have what visitors are looking for, be it the newest Superman comic release or an out-of-print series from Fantagraphics. What’s more: if they don’t have it in stock, they can likely order it.
Getty ImagesBarcade
If video games are more your style – particularly obscure or vintage ones – then hurry over to Barcade, which has four locations across Brooklyn and Manhattan. Each location is home to around 50 games, from old-fashioned pinball machines to classic arcade versions of Frogger. Guests can grab drinks and snacks at the bar before dropping their coins in the arcade of their choice. The newest (and largest) location, located in Manhattan’s Financial District, has more than 80 games, many of them obscure Japanese imports.
“[The new location has] a lot of space [so we added] some big, weird games that we’ve never had room to put out before,” said Paul Kermizian, the chain’s CEO and co-founder, who furnished the original Barcade location in Williamsburg with his own video game collection.
AlamyAbracadabra
Abracadabra, is a must-see destination for cosplayers and other costume enthusiasts. A staple since 1981, this shop located in Manhattan’s Flatiron District is far cry from the typical pop-up Halloween affair. The year-round store offers costumes, props, makeup and more for those looking to bring their favourite comic book or TV character to life. What’s on offer here is more high-end theatre quality than cheap plastic, making it perfect for die-hard cosplayers. There’s even a seamstress on site for fans wanting to create custom designs.
Alamy
