By Kyle Gorry
Twitter & Instagram: @thegorester
In case you didn't know, being a nerd is totally cool right now.
Whether superheroes are your kryptonite, your prized possession is a first pressing 'MMMbop' single on translucent purple vinyl, or you prefer to throw some D20's on those wenches, nerds come in all forms and they're here to stay. Here are some of the best spots where you can indulge in your awesome interests.
What list of nerdy places would be complete without a comic book store? This superhero haven has a humongous wall of mainstream and indie comics, aisles of graphic novels, and an extensive selection of toys amongst other nerdy goodness.
The Society of Illustrators is one of the most historical illustration museums in the world. With impressive exhibitions from the iconic art of The Avengers to "Funny Ladies at The New Yorker," they keep things interesting and fun for visitors. Plus they have tons of unique workshops and interactive activities for visitors to participate in, including sketch nights featuring live music performances and even happy hours. There's no doubt there's something for everyone's inner nerd to enjoy.
Whether you're a casual collector or a hardcore toy aficionado, Toy Tokyo has something for everyone. This store features a wide variety of new and vintage collectibles but it specializes in Japanese import toys and designer statues which double as pop art.
Bars are great. Arcades are great too. Having arcade games in a bar and naming it Barcade seems like a no brainer. Sample a great selection of craft beer and play Ghost Busters all day long. It's the perfect place to make the rule, "loser buys the next round of drinks".
If you play board games you know that they can take a while. What better way to recharge than with a cup of coffee? The Uncommons is a unique cafe where you can play dozens of board games and sip some freshly brewed coffee under the same roof. On top of that, they even have snacks and craft beers! Go have a drink, make some new friends, and build the longest road in the history of Settlers of Catan.
The Brooklyn Brainery is geared towards the classic intelligent nerd. This nifty learning spot offers classes for basically everything. You can learn about HTML, cooking, and even physics! They also offer free events as well so you can expand your knowledge on a budget.
Whereas Barcade is more intended for the casual gamer, 8 Bit and Up is for the hardcore gamer. Not only can you buy new and old games here, but they host tournaments and even repair old games and consoles. Now you can fix that copy of Contra your little brother spilled apple juice on decades ago!
If you want Senpai to finally notice you, going here is the best place to start. This store has everything anime from DVDs and imported toys, to cosplay accessories. Just be careful because you can quickly send all of your money to the shadow realm in here.
Face it, vinyl collectors are nerds too. Luckily, Generation Records is here to satisfy NYC's vinyl collecting bug. This store has two whole floors of new and pre-owned records, CDs, and band merch including everything from death metal to jazz.
Credit: James and Karla Murray Photography
Last but certainly not least is the Brooklyn Superhero Supply Co. You've read the stories and watched the movies about your favorite caped crusaders, but now it's time to become a superhero yourself! (Uhhh sort of) This store has a selection of costume essentials and even superpowers you can buy. On the outside these buckets of 'superpowers' look like novelty gags but who knows...
Looking for some more nerdy fun? Celebrate May the Fourth with these fun Star Wars Day events.
