Since my school is very close to Madison Square Park in NYC, on nice days I find myself walking towards Broadway and 23rd Street where the Flatiron building towers over pedestrians and the original Shake Shack feeds hundreds of starving New Yorkers and tourists. Of course, all of New York City is constantly pulsing with energy and activity, but I specifically love the energy in this area. Here are five things I love to do around Madison Square Park.

1. Go to the Madison Square Dog Park

I am a huge dog person and am constantly in need of a dog fix. Dog parks in the city are such a fun place to sit and people watch. Dozens of puppies play together and get out all of their pent-up energy in the middle of the city.

2. The Flying Tiger

This is such a fun store. I'd say it is like Ikea, but for small, fun nick-nacks. Everything is so cheap and I always spend way too much time and money searching through all of the treasures. You can find anything from art supplies to home decorations. It is on 21st Street and Broadway.

3. The original Shake Shack

You must go here if you never have. It is a bit touristy, but the shakes and burgers are amazing. Also, there is nothing better than eating in the middle of Madison Square Park on a sunny day.

4. Breads Bakery

This bakery is closer to Union Square, but is still pretty close to Madison Square Park. It is on 5th Avenue and 16th Street. It's a huge place with all kinds of things to choose from. Nutella Babka (a dense, chocolatey bread), tons of pastries and a great selection of sandwiches, are only a few of the food items to decide between. There is also a great atmosphere in the shop, so it is a great place to sit down and relax for a bit.

5. Eataly

This is a giant space on 5th Avenue and 23rd Street that has a bunch of different Italian food booths with everything from pizza to dessert items. It is a mad-house and is constantly bustling with customers.