City-Dwellers in New York are familiar with iconic landmarks like the Statue of Liberty and the Empire State Building, but there’s another side to the City That Never Sleeps that is often overlooked. These are the city’s best-kept secrets, reflecting its diverse and vibrant personality. Uncovering these hidden gems will make for a memorable experience the next time you’re in New York.
About New York
The state of New York is composed of 10 boroughs, with its most populous city – New York City – being located at the mouth of the Hudson River. Home to 8.6 million people, New York is considered the world’s most economically powerful city and is an international center for art, culture, media, and finance.
Exploring New York’s Hidden Gems
High Line
The High Line is an elevated park located between Manhattan’s West Side and the Hudson River. This public park was once a railroad track before it was redeveloped into a one-of-a-kind green space. With manicured gardens, wild meadows and stunning skyline views, the High Line is a peaceful recreational getaway for New Yorkers.
Nathan’s Famous Hot Dogs
Circa 1916, Nathan Handwerger started a small hot dog stand on the corner of Coney Island’s Surf and Stillwell Avenue. Now over a century later, Nathan’s Famous Hot Dogs is a New York City icon and one of the most recognizable brands in the world. There’s no better way to experience the authentic feel of Coney Island than by indulging in street food served up at Nathan’s.
The Cloisters
Located at the northern tip of Manhattan, this hidden gem is composed of a series of cloisters and gardens inspired by medieval European designs. Built in the 1930s, this one-of-a-kind museum houses some of the world’s finest collections of art and artifacts from the Middle Ages. From outdoor courtyards to the historically-accurate Unicorn Tapestries, the Cloisters will transport visitors to the Middle Ages.
Van Cortlandt Park
Van Cortlandt Park is New York City’s third-largest park and extends for over 1,146 acres. This sprawling green space is a playground for all things outdoors, including hiking, biking, golf, and bird watching. It’s also home to a 5.3-acre lake, making it an angler’s paradise. If you’re looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city, this is one surefire way to do it.
The Guggenheim Museum
The Guggenheim Museum is one of New York’s most famous attractions, and rightly so. The building itself is a masterpiece, made up of spiral ramps and round cavernous spaces. Home to an impressive selection of modern and contemporary art, the Guggenheim Museum is a must-see for architectural and art lovers alike.
Flushing Meadows-Corona Park
Flushing Meadows-Corona Park is the fourth-largest park in New York City, and it’s got something for everyone. From outdoor concerts to the Queens Zoo, this sprawling green space is home to popular attractions like the Unisphere, Queens Museum of Art, and the remains of the 1964 World’s Fair.
Brooklyn Bridge
The Brooklyn Bridge is one of the oldest suspension bridges in the United States and is the best way to get from lower Manhattan to Brooklyn. Completed in 1883, this iconic bridge was the first wheeled bridge in the world and offers stunning views of the city at night. For an unforgettable experience, take a walk across this masterpiece and experience one of the most iconic views in New York.
Discovering New York’s Best-Kept Secrets
There’s much more to New York than meets the eye, and these hidden gems provide the perfect opportunity to explore the city’s unique culture and history. From vibrant green spaces to architectural masterpieces, New York’s best-kept secrets have something for everyone. With a little bit of legwork, uncovering these hidden gems will provide an experience to remember for years to come.
Best Activities and Attractions in New York
From the cobbled streets of Brooklyn to the galleries and museums of downtown Manhattan, the City That Never Sleeps has something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a cultural escape or an adrenaline rush, here are some of the best activities and attractions New York has to offer.
Bronx Zoo
The Bronx Zoo is one of the city’s most beloved attractions and is home to over 6,000 animals in 225 acres of land. From tigers to gorillas and birds, take a stroll around the park and get up close and personal with some of nature’s most majestic creatures.
Central Park
Central Park is one of the most iconic parks across the globe and it’s easy to see why. This 843-acre public park is located in the middle of Manhattan and features outdoor activities and attractions such as Belvedere Castle, the Alice in Wonderland Statue, and the Central Park Boathouse.
Coney Island
From Ferris wheels to aquariums and everything in between, Coney Island is a world-renowned amusement destination. Located in the heart of Brooklyn, this iconic attraction offers plenty of activities and family fun, including a stroll along the boardwalk or a dip in the Atlantic Ocean.
Staten Island Ferry
The Staten Island Ferry is a free ferry route connecting Manhattan and Staten Island. One of the most iconic rides you’ll take in New York, the ferry offers stunning views of the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island and parts of the Brooklyn and Manhattan skyline.
Empire State Building
The Empire State Building is the tallest building in New York and the 15th tallest in the world. This iconic attraction towers at 1,250 feet tall and commands impressive views of Manhattan and beyond. If you’re brave enough, take a ride up the 80-story elevator and visit the observation decks.
New York Botanical Garden
The New York Botanical Garden comprises more than 1,000 acres of lush green space, perfect for a romantic walk or a day of leisurely exploration. This conifer forest, rose garden, lily pond, and landmark glasshouse offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Rockefeller Center
Rockefeller Center is an art deco-style complex located between 48th and 51st streets in the heart of Manhattan. From the Radio City Music Hall to the iconic Rockefeller Ice Rink, the complex encompasses much of the city including historic theatres, plazas, and shops.
Discovering Off-the-Beaten-Path Attractions
New York is full of hidden gems waiting to be discovered. Here are some of the best off-the-beaten-path attractions in the city:
Kayaking on the Hudson
The Hudson River offers mesmerizing views of Manhattan and beyond, and what better way to experience it than by taking a kayaking trip. Explore the Hudson, make new friends, and work up a sweat as you paddle your way around this unique gem of New York.
Chelsea Pier
Located on the west side of Manhattan, Chelsea Pier is an historic attraction with a modern twist. The pierside complex consists of several sports fields, batting cages and health clubs, making it a great spot for sports and recreation.
Veer Yokum
Veer Yokum is an open-air sculpture garden located on Bowery Street. This public park is a must-see for any art lover with its lively rotating sculptures, graffiti and inspiring urban artwork.
Wave Hill
When you visit Wave Hill, you’ll feel like you’ve left the city altogether. Located in the Bronx, this 28-acre public garden overlooks the Hudson River and features gardens, parkland and more. Visit their events page for interactive workshops and art classes.
New York City’s diverse landscape offers something for everyone. From outdoor recreational activities to iconic attractions, there’s no shortage of things to do in the city that never sleeps. Don’t forget to explore the city’s off-the-beaten-path attractions and uncover its best-kept secrets for maximum adventure.
