New York City, a vibrant space of culture, history, and innovation, offers a myriad of experiences that go beyond the usual tourist attractions. For the curious traveler looking to delve into the city’s more unique offerings, this guide unveils hidden gems in NYC that are some of the most unusual and intriguing activities to add to your itinerary.
Whether you’re a long-term resident renting in NYC or a first-time visitor, there’s much to see and do in the city. These unique things to do in NYC will offer a different perspective of the Big Apple.
Hidden Gems In NYC
Discover the City’s Secret Gardens
Amidst the concrete jungle, NYC hides several secret gardens that offer serene escapes. One of these hidden gems is the Elizabeth Street Garden in Nolita. This enchanting space, filled with intricate sculptures and lush greenery, is perfect for a quiet afternoon.
Explore the Abandoned City Hall Subway Station
If you’re a history buff or an adventure seeker, visit the abandoned City Hall Subway Station. One of the top hidden gems in NYC, this architectural marvel opened in 1904 only to close again in 1945.
With its beautiful arches and glass ceilings, this station is a perfect time capsule of the city’s past. Accessible through guided tours, you won’t want to miss out on this eerie yet fascinating glimpse into old New York.
Green-Wood Cemetery Tour
Another favorite among unique things to do in NYC is to step into the fascinating history of New York by taking a guided tour of the Green-Wood Cemetery in Brooklyn. This National Historic Landmark is not only a peaceful final resting place but also home to stunning architecture, sculptures, and the graves of notable figures from New York’s past.
Visit the Museum of Interesting Things
If you’re on the hunt for hidden gems in NYC and museums are on your list, then a visit to the Museum of Interesting Things is a must. This traveling museum is a trove of the intriguing and the bizarre. From ancient typewriters to rare medical devices, the Museum of Interesting Things takes you on a journey through the oddities of technological advancements.
Explore the Art in the Subway
The NYC subway is a sprawling art gallery if you know where to look. Stations like 14th Street-Union Square and Times Square-42nd Street are adorned with intricate mosaics and sculptures, turning your commute into an art tour.
Hunt for Street Art in Bushwick
For art enthusiasts, Bushwick in Brooklyn is a mecca of street art. Take a walking tour of the neighborhood to witness an ever-changing canvas of murals and graffiti. The Bushwick Collective showcases the work of local and international artists, turning the streets into an urban art gallery.
Attend an Underground Supper Club
If you’re a foodie looking for an exclusive dining experience, NYC’s underground supper clubs are a culinary adventure. These invite-only events are often held in secret locations and offer bespoke menus by up-and-coming chefs.
Take a Ghost Tour of Greenwich Village
Greenwich Village, known for its bohemian past, is also home to some of the city’s most spine-tingling ghost stories. Join a guided night tour to explore haunted sites and learn about the ghosts that roam this historic neighborhood.
Ghost tours are a great way to experience the hidden gems of NYC while learning about the area’s history!
Visit the City Reliquary
Another favorite among offbeat things to do in NYC is the City Reliquary. This small museum in Williamsburg is a treasure trove of NYC ephemera. From vintage subway tokens to fragments of famous buildings, the City Reliquary celebrates the everyday artifacts that makeup New York’s rich history.