My favorite museums like the A great double-up! This architectural gem was actually voted one of the most beautiful buildings in the country in 1880. Once youre on the island, relax in a hammock, rent a CitiBike for a breezy ride or visit one of the many eateries. Right in the 30s, youll find Koreatown, the heart of Korean culture in New York. The house has been restored and is now part of the National Park Service. This elevated greenway on Manhattans West Side sits on a former railroad track. The Cat Sanctuary in Southpoint Park is a non-profit cat sanctuary on Roosevelt Island where you can visit twenty-two friendly strays that live here full-time. You can find more information about their weekly events on their official site! 11. Check out the tour by clicking here. Head to Hudson Yards and make your way to the highest outdoor sky deck in the Western Hemisphere. From the Edge, youll feel like youre floating above the city and part of the observation deck even features a glass floor where you can look 100 stores below. I dare say that its the most relaxing place to visit in New York. Consider taking a tour of the best Christmas light displays if youre not keen on figuring out the logistics. Here, youll find this Garden-inspired neighborhood full of beautiful Tudors. 10 Pros and Cons of Living in New York State. Ive grouped these activities by borough and location. Times Square. Instead, check out Slide Hill. Ringing in New Years Eve on the water is a unique experience and perfect if you want to avoid the madness of the Ball Drop. Although you have heard of Little Italy, you need to head this old school neighborhood of the Bronx where Italian culture in New York has been preserved with old school pasta makers, Michelin-starred restaurants serving up incredible pizza, and mozzarella makers worth of the James Beard award. The Brooklyn Ballet has transferred this traditional show into an inclusive, diverse performance with a fresh take on the classic story. The boat is filled with carols, live jazz, Christmas cookies, and some spiked hot cocoa from the bar! However, I was pleasantly surprised by this tourand many of the guests were visiting for the second and third time. Required fields are marked *. Your email address will not be published. With festive decorations, holiday lights, and live entertainment, this unique experience is ideal for couples and families looking to engage in the center's many attractions and activities. It only costs $10 for adults and $5 for kids. Just enter the secret code and this bar will reward you with an intimate and atmospheric 1930s vibe and top-quality cocktails. Our selection of memorable experiences and gifts are perfect for Save money on one of the most unique things to do in NYC by visiting on Fridays between 5:00 pm and 7:00 pm when admission is waived! Chinatown Ice Cream Factory has become one of the best-known purveyors of the frozen treat due to its diverse and experimental selection of flavors. Hours: Open to the public Friday through Sunday from 11 am to 6 pm, with visits at other times available by appointment only (Just send an email to info@mmuseumm.com if youd like to stop by any time between Monday and Thursday). And there are a couple of speakeasies youll want to (secretly) add to your agenda. Live music acts perform at weekends so snap up a table (bookings are mandatory, FYI) and make a night of it. You know, all the useful stuff that you should have learned in school! take a two-hour tour about the early African American history of New York. For the best views of Roosevelt Island, consider taking the tramway for excellent views of Manhattan on the way back! Panorama of the City of New York at the Queens Museum. Gullivers Gate. Rest assured, there are plenty of opportunities for that five of them in fact. Take in the sights of NYC on a stroll of Little Italy and Soho. Empire State Building. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Home North America USA 20 Weird and Unique Things to do in NYC, USA (The Ultimate Guide). There are endless rows of stunning jewelry, homemade goods, and delicious treats to sample. 32 Uniquely New York Experiences That Shouldnt Be Missed 1. If your idea of tranquillity is practicing yoga in one of New Yorks most luxurious landscapes, then pick up the mat and head to Bryant Park! When this statue was unveiled in August 2020, it became the first in Central Park to depict actual women (let that sink in for a second). The train is a little far to walk during colder temperatures, but taking one of these Dyker Height Brooklyn Christmas Lights tours (or this tour) will provide you with transportation to see the lights. Theres no denying that New York is an expensive state to live in, from income tax, sales tax, and property taxes. How to Get There: Take the 4/5/6/7 train, or the shuttle from Times Square to Grand Central Terminal. If so then check out my picks for the all-time best hotels in NYC. Its a fun, local German restaurant with over-the-top Christmas []. Im a super quirky, 30+ year native New Yorker who wants to share the total awesomeness that is New York travel with you. [], Best East Coast Winter Vacation Destinations for the Perfect Getaway in 2022-23, [] you do though, be sure to try one of the most unusual things to do in NYC and take a trip to Rolfs. While youre in Queens, heres another one of the most unusual things to do in NYC to check out. Traditionally seen as a gateway into the country, New York has been the most popular destination for many immigrants. Ive been several times when I was younger and its really fantastic. This National Historic Landmark in Brooklyn is known for its 478 acres of beautifully landscaped hills and paths. Then, after being retired from active duty, the Lightship was given a new lease of life as a bar in Chelsea. 1. Rustic, Refined, and Romantic: Is the French Country House Style Right for You? Drink unicorn blood, make potions, and dine in socially-distanced snow-globes. You can click for my guide to Flushing for the best places to eat in Flushing. Consider joining an island tour to help you explore the best of whats there to see in Aruba, like: Alto Vista Chapel. Its a nice place for a quiet walk along the beach. 10/10 Town Square. For true foodies, consider taking a pizza tour of New York. Address: 32-01 Vernon Boulevard / Long Island City, NY 11106. I highly recommend stopping off for some Mexican tacos and a craft beer afterward! The World Cup kicks off this weekend in Qatar. With different cultural backgrounds found in this state, NYC is one of the most diverse cities in the country. If you have anyone with sensory issues, reach out for a special booking that includes softer audio and lighting. Plus, your ticket to the MET already includes a guided tour of the Cloisters. But, there are also three other (shorter) slides to tackle, including the family slide that lets you whizz down with your buddy, if this one is a bit too intense for you. How to Get There: Take the 7 train to 34th street and Hudson Yards station and walk to the Vessel from there. Click here for my recommendations on the best places to shop on a budget in New York. Check the website for updated information on the virtual queue. Some of the best viewing areas are between 72nd and 96th streets and around the Reservoir. As someone who grew up in Queens, Im horribly biased, but the rest of this article will discuss unusual thing things to do in the other boroughs! Here, youll find all kinds of delicious Jewish foods that you will want to try. Walk through a winter wonderland that feels like a dream, with illuminated light sculptures and handmade Chinese lanterns. One of the best alternative activities in NYC has to be attending and off-off broadway play. Make a free reservation online (these go really quickly!) You can also check out a few of my other NYC posts: 30+ Fun Things to do in Williamsburg Brooklyn, Self-Guided Midtown Manhattan Walking Tour. This attraction is an extension of the main facility and exhibits medieval tapestries, paintings, and architecture. The Museum of the Moving Image explores the past, present, and future of film and digital culture. Be aware that there is more than one Rockettes Christmas performance, so make sure you choose the Radio City Musical Hall show. the box you might want to try some of the citys innumerable, high-quality thrift living, breathing memorial to the late, great John Lennon. 14. Wrong! This modern areal tramway takes passengers from 59th St Price: General admission is $39 for adults and $32 for everyone else. Did you know theres an 18-hole mini-golf course in Tribeca? The Museum of the City of New York is hosting a new exhibit, City of Faith: Religion, Activism, and Urban Space, featuring portraits, photographs, multimedia installations, and even a scent installation. It aims to shine a spotlight on South Asian American communities, with ties to several religious groups including Hindus, Muslims, and Sikhs. Well let New York City have its moment with its beautiful skyscrapers and monuments, but throughout the state, youll find a beauty that is sure to compare. taking a tour to visit many of the key locations with local artists that shaped hip-hop in New York. How to Get There: Take either the 4/5/6 line or the J/Z train to Canal Street Station. Visitors are invited to dance their way through the space. From a working station, to an abandoned one. Eatwith is a scheme set up to bring people together over food. A post shared by Bryant Park (@bryantparknyc). With populated streets and events happening almost every weekend, its best to utilize public transportation. Ever wanted to go skydiving but were scared of the crazy height youd have to jump from? No need to trek to Napa to taste the best wines in the US! Permanent exhibitions showcase the likes of the Kaufman Astoria Studio and the groundbreaking work of Jim Henson. Tickets are free. I have an undergraduate degree in History, read The Power Broker by Robert Caro, watched many Ken Burns documentaries, and lived here my entire life. In 1911, a fire ripped through a factory housed in a 10-story building in Greenwich Village. Yup, this insanely long list right here features all of the cool things to do in NYC that will get you away from the guidebook so that you can actually experience the city like a real New Yorker. Consider joining an island tour to help you explore the best of whats there to see in Aruba, like: Alto Vista Chapel. Price: Tickets are between $27 and $29 per person. After all, its a magical place that is home to the longest slide in NYC and one of the best hidden gems in NYC too. Looking for one of the most unique things to do in NYC in winter and for a bit of yuletide cheer? This park hosts more than 1,000 events each year and many of these are at no cost. How to Get There: Take the W Line and get off at 57th Street Station. You will never run out of things to do here, especially if you are traveling with children. Hours: Open daily from 12:00 pm to 7:00 pm, with curbside pick available daily from 12:00 pm to 6:00 pm. Step back into yesteryear at this old-fashioned soda counter in the heart of the Upper East Side. Spaces are limited and tours only run at certain times throughout the year. Hours: Open Tuesday through Friday from 10:30 am to 5:00 pm (except open late, until 9 pm on Fridays), Saturdays from 10 am to 6:00 pm, and Sundays from 11 am to 6 pm. City Island is very surprising. Click for my guide to Astoria. Interactive Christmas Things to Do in NYC. The institute is located on the Lower East Side and highlights the stories of immigrants during the late 19th century. The median sale price of New York City homes for sale is $800,000, and the 11. The Rockettes at Radio City Music Hall, 5. Although Ellis Island is famous for immigration, Ellis Island also has some dark stories in its past Notably, there were separate wards where those who were sick were held prior to being deported. So, you probably already know all about the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Check out some comedy shows around town, go ice skating on Governors Island, or listen to a cantata in the Lower East Side. No problem, New York City is very walkable thanks to the shops and restaurants that line the streets and the subway to connect you to charming neighborhoods. one-room museum dedicated to the legendary magician and escape artist. This speakeasy is hidden away behind a vintage telephone booth at the hotdog joint, Crif Dogs. On Madison Avenue in Midtown one of them sits alone; a relic of communist Europe lost in the capitalist hub of Manhattan. Address: 1226 Lexington Avenue, New York, New York. Central Park. a trip to see his grave in Queens. While some people have dreamt about seeing the iconic attractions since they were youngsters, for others the thought of huddling around the Statue of Liberty surrounded by hundreds of camera-wielding tourists is their very definition of hell. This unique hands-on workshop allows participants to create their own graffiti art project with the help of an authentic NYC graffiti artist. How Lenders Qualify You for a Mortgage, Low Water Pressure? Its a popular destination for runners! The tour, which is affordable, is run by knowledgeable volunteers. The median sale price of, is $800,000, and the average rent for a 1-bedroom, . Interactive and Instagrammable, theres no better place for gelato fans than the Museum of Ice Cream. You can tour permanent exhibits that discuss the evolution and history of NYC and special exhibits that focus on topics like rising sea levels, activism, music and more. But, Spyscape also offers a bunch of different, special experiences that are a bit on the pricey side when it comes to hidden gems in NYC. As an Amazon Associate, I earn a small commission from qualifying purchases. This part of New York was once where my ancestors lived when they arrived in New York and its long been the Jewish cultural capital of New York. Hours: Open seasonally throughout the summer. https://castawaywithcrystal.com/unique-things-to-do-in-nyc-usa You can enjoy one of the most interesting views in the city for the cost of one MetroCard swipe ($2.75). Hours: Open Tuesday through Friday from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm, and Saturday/Sunday from 11:00 am to 5:00 pm. Get ready to step back into time on your Upstate New York trip. Tickets are just $5 to hop on, and the ride is open seven days a week from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. One of the coolest places to visit in Upstate New York to do this is Saratoga Springs Spa Resort. I recommend exploring Fort Tyron park after. How to Get There: Take the 2/3 train to Eastern Parkway Brooklyn Museum station. Community members helped preserve the building and by 1967 it had been converted into a library. Skip the food, though. One of the most New York experiences off the beaten path that you can have (in my humble opinion!) Want to browse the many tours NYC has to offer? Visit the New York Botanical Garden. Ive been coming here since I was a child. Address: Since the Highline spans 1.5 miles, check here for an entry point near you. Beyond the artworks, you can roam the beautiful terraces and gardens that feel a million miles away from the busy streets of Manhattan. This park is celebrating its 225th year of bringing people together! Take a spectacular holiday cruise and see the New York City skyline from the water! The blaze killed more than 100 workers, many of them young Italian or Jewish immigrants. How to Get There: Take the C/E train to 23rd Street station and walk from there. Get yourself down to Pier 66 and you can grab a beer or a bite at this former Coast Guard Lightship. Temporary displays dive into other pivotal moments in film history or cast a spotlight on a specific director or medium. The first thing I do when arriving in a new location is to go on a free walking tour to get my bearings and a locals perspective. Company XIVs Nutcracker Rouge (Adults Only) , 11. One of the most fun unusual things to do in New York has to be KTV in Koreatown. That just about wraps up this guide to the most unusual things to do in NYC! 96,179. Many TV shows and films were set here, including Boardwalk Empire. Kings Country Distillery may have only opened in 2010, but it is the first one to open in the city since Prohibition. This cruise starts at Classic Harbor Line, and the ticket booth is located steps from the dock on Pier 62. One of my favorite museums for an unusual experience for adults and children alike in New York has to be the Tenement Museum. Call us spoiled, but many New Yorkers dont think twice about the citys plethora of 24-hour establishments, a favorite of which is the all-hours eatery. Whether you want to try a Nathans Famous Hot Dog, ride the 94 year old Cyclone roller coaster or just soak up the sun on the beach, theres tons to do in this quirky Brooklyn neighborhood. Address: 320 E 43rd St, New York, NY 10017, USA. This gem has run for 85 years and uses the natural underground spring waters for a number of treatments. Hours: Open Thursday 12:00 pm to 8:00 pm, Friday 2:00 pm to 9:00 pm, Saturday 11:00 am to 9:00 pm, and Sunday 11:00 am to 7:00 pm. New York has the third highest taxes in the U.S. New York state has a sales tax of 4% but combined with the New York City tax of an additional 4.5%, youll be paying a hefty tax that youll want to incorporate into your budget. New York City has one of the highest living costs in the country. You can also check out the Vessel while youre here. One of Brooklyns best breweries is Other Half Brewing Company, so consider grabbing a pint before exploring the neighborhood! Trust me, youll fall in love! This post may contain affiliate links. New Yorks original subway car departed from City Hall station in 1904. 9 Spend an afternoon (at least) at the Metropolitan Museum of Art. parks. You may even cross paths with a few celebrities as you stride through the streets. Spyscape. The cost of housing is steep. Did you know that you could go surfing in New York!? Its a bit of fresh air oddly enough in New York and a nice respite from the busy city. What to expect? If you are planning a trip to NYC, here are a few things youll want to know right away: Alright, are you ready to plan your next NYC getaway? Unfortunately, Robert Moses (one of the urban planners who largely shaped modern-day New York [Read the Power Broker to learn more about his legacy!]) If you would like to save these unusual things to do in New York City article, feel free to do so by using the pins or share buttons below! Museum of My favorite has to be the John Bowne House in Flushing, which traces the rise of religious freedom in North America. Honestly, I havent found this to be true. Because this is one of the most popular things to do in NYC in December, tickets will go fast, and seats will be packed. The flavor changes each month and since opening, a Cronut flavor has never been repeated. One of my favorite neighborhoods of New York for a stroll has to be Forest Hill Gardens. Booking a guided Rockefeller Center Christmas Holiday Tour can help you see all the sights, including the Rockefeller Christmas Tree and other light displays such as Fifth Ave and Radio City Music Hall. The Festival of Lights is held at The Fairgrounds in Hamburg, NY, about 20 minutes south of downtown Buffalo and has been held annually during the holiday season for nearly 20 years. There are even vendors selling those all-important snacks! Even if there isnt anything on display during your trip, youll get a unique view of Central Park and Midtown. Despite its beauty, this garden is not very well-known and right on the edge of the water, so consider coming here on a nice day as its the perfect lead-in to discovering that theres more to Staten Island that just the ferry! If so, youre not alone. The Menorah is lit all eight nights of Chanukah, and we suggest reserving a spot as thousands of people attend these lightings every year. A post shared by Trinity Place Restaurant (@trinityplacenyc). My roommate got a wreath here for $15! A great way to enjoy being close to downtown is to look at less populated neighborhoods outside the city like, 3. This small private street is full of beautiful houses was intended for middle-class people, however, its one of the sought-out places to live on the Upper East Side today. Its reached capacity every day since it opened so aim to get in the virtual line early. Price: Tickets are $18 per person with free Friday mornings from 8:00 am to 12:00 pm (March through November). Yeah, Manhattan tends to hog the limelight so even paying a visit to this outlying borough constitutes one of many unique things to do in NYC. Brush up on your skills at Spyscape Spy Museum, 9. So, even if youre not looking to do laundry, you can swing by the emporium and have a game and a brew as you enjoy one of the more unusual things to do in NYC. Although New Yorks old pizza parlor closed, you can head into Brooklyn to Totonnos to taste pizza at this classic New York institution open since 1924! Address: 900 Washington Avenue Brooklyn, New York, 11238. Governors Island is a car-free escape just a few miles from the tip of Manhattan. Some focus on the tougher elements of the experiences that the immigrants faced while others focus on the lives of women or the wider domestic arrangements. Home to John F. Kennedy International Airport, youll be able to fly to Europe in under 8 hours. There are plenty of quirky things to do in NYC. Given its location, New York is a great place to get around. Well, lucky for you there are other like-minded stargazers who meet at the High Line in Manhattan between West 15th and West 16th Street. If you are a road-tripping type, I have three recommendations for you to suit your vehicle needs! Currently living in the Hague, the Netherlands after stints in Paris and Amsterdam. Shop for handmade gifts for your loved ones this year made by local artists, craftsmen, and entrepreneurs. You can catch the cantata Sunday, Nov. 20 at 3 p.m. at the Museum of Eldridge Street in the Lower East Side. Not only is it the first women-owned brewery in the city but they also serve fruit-forward beers for people who claim to not like beer. This notable cemetery built on rolling hills in the Bronx is the final resting place of many famous stars, including Herman Melville and Miles Davis! Hours: Open daily from 11:30 am to 10:30 pm from May through October. The highlight of the museum though is the exhibition of retro carriages and buses that evoke the glory days of 20th-century travel. Ringing in 2023 on the water, overlooking the skyline, and seeing a firework show is pure magic. Jazz at Lincoln Center offers shows that explore this musical medium fro a unique cultural exchange. Pro Tip: Be sure to stop by Chelsea Market and Artichoke Basille along the way since both are right nearby and are great places to eat. once the usually trendsetting city of New York was slow off the mark when it Santos, who claims he was visited in a dream by Lennon who requested he takes One of the best museums in New York for lovers of medieval art has to be the Cloisters. There are so many things to do in NYC during Christmas, its hard to fit them all in! This is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience so dont miss the opportunity to cross off a real bucket list experience while youre in NYC. A very unique thing to do in NYC. Sip a glass of Champagne as you drive through Rockefeller Centre, Brooklyns Dyker Heights, and see a spectacular view from the Brooklyn Bridge. Hours: Open Sunday through Thursday from 6:00 am to 2:00 am and Friday and Saturday from 6:00 am to 3:30 am. Also, be sure to take a stroll through my personal fave, the Shakespeare Garden. Since 2015 the company has been offering flying experiences to people ranging from ages 3-100+! The collection also dives into the culture and etiquette of subway travel and decorum at street level. Not only does the city light up and sparkle even more around Christmas time, but tourists also flock to the city to take advantage of seasonal events before their gone. How to Get There: Take the R/W Train to Prince Street Station or the B/B/F/M train to Lafayette Street. #7. The attraction is housed in a 2,575-square-foot glass shell that sits atop the original New York Aquarium. Hop in a tram and soar across the East River. This free park hosts sculptures from sculptors from all around the world along this water-front property. Stop by during your visit to check out the latest piece. Hours: Open every day from 10 am to 6:30 pm. Price: Tickets are $39 for adults and free for children 2 and under. This modern areal tramway takes passengers from 59th St and 2nd Ave to Roosevelt Island. So, if the idea of eating delicious food in a true one-of-a-kind location appeals to you, then this place should most definitely be marked as a must-see on your itinerary. The Annual Mermaid Parade is a big draw and the 2021 event is set to take place in September. Kids Rock for Kidsfinds talented kid and teenage rockers and books concerts to raise money for other children in need. Instagrammers, take note, you cant take photos within the Louis Armstrong House. The Brooklyn Bridge gets all the buzz, but you can also walk or bike across the Manhattan Bridge. Address: 6th Ave &, 6 W 3rd St, New York, NY 10014, United States. Rather than getting jostled in crowded winter villages, buy gourmet chai kits, try a taste of Little Carribean and support Black-owned and queer vendors. And all you need to do is swipe your MetroCard: cheap, easy, and one of the most utterly unusual things to do in NYC! Occasionally, prisoners were held in the basement before being taken to jail. You can catch the Brooklyn Nutcracker here, a reimagined vision of the traditional show featuring ballet, hip-hop, and various other dance genres. If anything, people are in a rush and dont like to waste time. Dyker Heights Brooklyn Christmas Lights, 12. Click for more tips for the Lower East Side. This large museum showcases his beautiful minimalistic models, drawings, and sculptures. What will you do first? The National 9/11 Memorial & Museum. Hundreds of people flock to the manicured park with their picnic blankets at the ready to chill with friends and catch the free film on display. That number doesnt include the thousands of tourists NYC attracts yearly, making the city feel crowded at all times. Mmuseumm (pronounced Museum) is an unusual pick for a museum since it is a place that urges you to focus on the mundane. It may be chilly outside temperatures are expected to dip into the 30s this weekend but there are compelling reasons to leave your apartment. Keep an eye on the NPS website for updates on future tours. With festive decorations, holiday lights, The median sale price of New York City homes for sale is $800,000, and the average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment in New York City is $4,600. Explore film at the Museum of the Moving Image, Map of the Most Unusual Things to do in NYC, Additional New York Resources Youll Love. So if youre in town with a loved one, jump on the bandwagon and buy yourself a padlock! From the hustle and bustle of New York City to the charming towns of upstate New York, theres a lot to love about this state. Youll scale the outside of the tower before leaning over the streets 1,200 feet below making this one of the more intense unusual things to do in NYC on this list. How to Get There: Take the D/F/M to Broadway/Lafayette station and walk from there. Click for a tour of Harlem! What better way to cool down on a hot summers day than with nice, refreshing ice cream? Now in its 19th year, the festival was founded in 2003 by comedians Dean Obeidallah and Maysoon Zayid to showcase the talents of Arab-American performers, writers and filmmakers. Suffice to say this location is incredibly busy during peak holiday hours and can be a bit overwhelming. Your options are almost limitless as long as you have cash as many businesses are cash only. New York City the The City that Never Sleeps is a city that needs no introduction, of course. Concerts in the Park. Address: 207 12th Ave, New York, NY 10001, United States. Admission to the rink will be free on Thursdays. It's hosted in partnership with the You can only visit as part of a tour though. Youll want to bundle up for the freezing winters, If you live in New York, you know how cold the state can get in winter. Your email address will not be published. So, you can pop your head in on weekdays and relax among the shrubs for free. Gaze at the Rockefeller Center Christmas Tree. While youre waiting for the Liberty Island Ferry, take a twirl on New Yorks prettiest and most unique carousel. enough you can unearth some real hidden gems. Play pinball at the Sunshine Laundromat, 25. Therefore, scouts are regularly spotted loitering around looking for fresh talent which makes for an electrifying atmosphere at one of the best hidden gems in NYC. Its within the Queens Museum of Art, which sits right around the corner from the world-famous Unisphere. So, step away from the generic AF travel guides and take a peek at this 30+ year locals guide to all the most non-touristy things to do in NYC. Locals and visitors love to visit the holiday extravaganza at Kevin McCurdys Holiday Spirit Festival every year. This is a different ferry than the NYC Ferry mentioned above and you can purchase Governors Island Ferry tickets here. AirOtic Soire is a one-of-a-kind event in One of the best things about NYC is that the city doesnt sleep at night, so there are plenty of crazy things to do even at night! Its free to visit although not so easy to get here. Because visiting the Frying Pan after a packed day of sightseeing is easily one of the best unique things to do in NYC at night. Goldman Properties owns the wall and commissions artists every 6-12 months to create a new mural for it. Entire sections of monasteries from Spain and France have been moved here although my favorite exhibition had to be the unicorn tapestry. Please check ourdisclosurepagefor more information. And let me tell you- this city is packed with interesting things that plenty of visitors miss. Get a facial, mineral bath, or massage at the Roosevelt Baths & Spa almost every day except on major holidays. A selection of beverages, inclduing hard seltzers and local beers, are also available for purchase on the ferries. Greenacre Park is a small park with a 25-foot waterfall tucked away in the midst of Midtown. Have a bagel ball. Price: Tickets are $10 for adults, $8 for children (2-17) and seniors (62+), and free on Wednesdays. How to Get There: If youre coming from Manhattan, take the 4/5 train to Borough Hall station and walk from there. If the Big Apple is not crazy enough for you, here are some crazy things to do in New York City at night: go stargazing with Amateur Astronomers Association, dine in the Cauldron (a magic-inspired cocktail bar), and try indoor skydiving! Please leave Manhattan, especially if youre tired of the same old things. In fact, Lexington Candy Shop first swung open its doors in 1925 and stakes its claim as the oldest family-owned luncheonette in the city. Hours: Open Tuesday through Friday from 8:00 am to 6:00 pm and Saturday and Sunday from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm (March through October). Its super cheap to play on the pinball machines and the laundro-bar serves beers and ciders exclusively. New York is one of the most renowned places in the world. The original Federal Hall was located in the same spot and here George Washington was sworn in as the first President of the United States. Its a nice respite from the steel of Manhattan! It is free to visit and a great starting place to learn about the darker past of New York. How to Get There: Take the G to Greenpoint Avenue station and walk from there. Updated January 2020: By searching, you agree to the Terms of Use, and Privacy Policy. How to Get There: Take the 7/S/4/5/6 to Grand Central and walk from there. Your email address will not be published. Located on Court Street in Brooklyn, the museum occupies a decommissioned subway station. How to Get There: Take the D train from Rockefeller Center to 71st Street station and walkfrom there. was once one of New Yorks most popular tourist destinations after many of the The Holiday Cheer event is held on December 8, where there will be Christmas carols, festive drinks, and more. broke up the park and much of the Bronx, however, the park is worth a visit if you think that youve seen it all! Speciality Museums Historic Sites. Get off the beaten path to see the weird and unique things to do in NYC! Maybe Red Hook wasnt on your radar, but it will be now. Along the way, you can admire art installations or grab something to eat (Melt Bakery, La Newyorkina and LArte del Gelato are all available to help you cool off). Who doesnt love pizza!? Buckle up, its going to be a wild ride as New York has so much to offer that you might not expect. READ NEXT: Free Things to do in New York City. New York City is the most densely populated city in the entire country. For some of the most Instagrammable shots imaginable, join the bridge at Brooklyn and walk towards Manhattan as you start to approach the island youll be totally dazzled by the view. Were you always optimistic that one day youd get that sly tap on your shoulder during college? Its just across Rockefeller Center, so pair them as two for one! Metropolitan Museum of Art. Live performances at the Kings Theatre feel magical in this 1929 building with grand French Baroque features. to eat in the park. This bright and yellow church is believed to be the first Catholic chapel built in 1750. Nutcracker Rouge is a fantastic baroque burlesque confection in Bushwick (only for adults) that provides a spicy take on the traditional holiday show. You can take a candlelight tour of the catacombs to learn more about the history of this epic Basilica! Winter Lantern Festivals at Queens County Farm Museum, 24. This charming Brooklyn neighborhood is famous for its epic Christmas light displays in front of the houses! Explore the Morgan Library and Museum, 17. To learn more about the history of slavery and the Underground Railroad in New York, you can take a two-hour tour about the early African American history of New York. Address: 263 Mulberry St, New York, NY 10012, United States. Tickets start at $12 if you buy in advance; theyre around $19 at the door. Green-Wood Cemetery has several outdoor and indoor art installations, including The Remains of Winter. Add to myNY. As part of this space, youll find the land that once belonged to the New York City Farm Colony and Willowbrook State School. The views from the water are gorgeous and worth the trip. Sign up for a Sky-High Yoga class. So, be sure to pay a visit to the High Line once youve had your fill of Central Park. However, for jazz lovers, this house is a bit of a pilgrimage location. At night the tracks illuminate the park, with more than 175 recreations of landmark buildings and g-scale locomotives with a skyline made of plant parts and flowers. Its a beautiful place for a quiet stroll away from the busy streets with a hot cup of coffee or cocoa. If you liked the sound of the High Line then heres another quirky outdoor spot to check out in NYC. You can also walk the High Line at any time of year with an entirely different perspective. History lovers might like the Old Stone House of Brooklyn. Sticking with the Houdini theme, if youre This lively market in Long Island City is one of the upcoming cool neighborhoods in Queens where youll find lots of cute shops and cafes. Each weekend, you can browse the LIC Flea Market. You can find me doing headstands on the edges of cliffs, chasing down baby goats or perched in a weird position trying to get thebest photo. of retail therapy (nothing wrong with that) if youre looking to stay outside If you are using a screen reader, or having trouble reading this website, please call Redfin Customer Support for help at 1-844-759-7732. Many different traditions, religions, and cultures fill this state. Your pilot will take you on the ride of your life to see the citys main attractions and youll feel the cool New York breeze as you whizz past the likes of the Empire State Building, Rockefeller Center, and the Statue of Liberty. Get the news New Yorkers need in your inbox. Address: 30 Hudson Yards, New York, NY 10001, Hours: Open daily from 10:00 am to 10:00 pm (the last elevator goes up 50-minutes before closing). And if you found this post useful, dont forget to join our email list before pinning this post now so that you can read it again later. Even if you dont visit City Hall Station, the New York Transit Museum itself is one of the most unique things to do in NYC. Now, that might feel lame when youre looking to enjoy some of the most unique things to do in NYC. See, the OG slide rises to 57 feet, with twists and turns guaranteeing a thrill no matter how many times youve been on it. You dont often think of visiting a cemetery during the holidays, but this one you may want to consider this one. If you are traveling solo youll join a group with an Experience Ambassador.). How to Get There: Take the N/R/W train to 59th street and Lexington station and walk to the tram from there. Ive rented with Motorhome Republic previously and had a very smooth experience and value for money. Click for more information about visiting Ellis Island. You can check out the routes here. The Statue of Liberty, Central Park, the Museum of Natural History, the Guggenheim Museum, the Metropolitan Museum of Art, Empire State Building and broadway are all staples of a NYC visit. This suspension bridge crosses the East River and connects Downtown Brooklyn with Lower Manhattan. What Locals love about New York City Gothamist is a website about New York City news, arts, events and food, brought to you by New York Public Radio. The cost of housing is steep. ), you can visit the exact spot (Fraunces Tavern) where the Sons of Liberty, who help plan the Boston Tea Party plotted. is to sit at a 24-hour deli or diner and people watch as you get endless refills of black coffee. The farm itself is free to visit although its worth looking up the schedule for the events, which are generally held on weekends. But, you can see the station as part of a guided tour. New York City has one of the highest living costs in the country. Guests must be at least 18 years old, and theres a two-beverage minimum. Address: Located at 97 and 103 Orchard Street on the Lower East Side. (We also recommend the ice cream.) Notably, you can browse for locally made products, snack, and head to the beer garden along the water (the East River) in good weather. Brooklyn Grange places a strong emphasis on sustainability and as well as offering the public the chance to buy their organic produce. Most of these events are open to the public and include opportunities like ice skating, a production of A Christmas Carol, and tons of other performances. Unfortunately, tours have not restarted yet, but you can still stop by and check out the exterior of the house. But there are tons of things to see and do in Queens, starting with the Socrates Sculpture Park. Of course, youll know all about the world-famous New York Public Library. How to Get There: Take the 4, 5, or 6 to 86th street station. Every summer, you can attend free world-class plays and concerts in the middle of Central Park. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Receive Dominican Abroad's free travel guides & updates on travel trends around the world. How to Get There: Take the E/M/R train to Steinway Street station. And now: puffer time. While theres no shortage of incredible Escape the hustle and bustle literally at an Escape Room of your choice. The median sale price of New York City homes for sale is $800,000, and the average rent for a 1-bedroom apartment in New YorkCityis $4,600. Address: 295 Madison Avenue, New York, NY 10017 (E. 41st Street). Although, if you dont want to try it for yourself, you can always roll up and watch the locals hone their skills while you dig into some pizza and ice cream. This community basketball court is the stomping ground of the West Fourth Street League, founded by the limousine driver Kenny Graham. Home owners welcome tourists to visit, so dont be shy and take a whole lot of photos. This was a key place for defending New York from the British and the Nazis as its the entry to New York Harbor. Including Albertine, Deno's Wonder Wheel, and Brooklyn Botanic Garden. Its a secret local hidden gem. One of the most traditional things you can do in the winter in NYC is to go ice skating at The Rink at Rockefeller Center. House of Yes is one of New Yorks wildest alternative places to go out. This monument is the oldest African burial ground in existence. citys prominent figures from the 19th century were buried here. Our OTHER NY Travel GUIDES. This working farm is New Yorks oldest continuously farmed site (since the 1600s) and youll wonder if youre still in New York City. Youll find the statue at the southern end of the Mall. I (Jessie) own a photo experience company called NYC Poster House opened in 2019 and was the first museum in the US dedicated solely to posters. Make sure you save time to stay for the Childrens Starlight Parade, with hundreds of volunteers carrying an amazing animated puppet float. good care of the memorial. Now, living inThe Hague, the Netherlands. The store is packed with tons of Harry Potter merch and soon youll also be able to join a VR experience. Price: Tickets are $36 for adults, $31 for kids (between 6 and 12), and $34 for seniors (62+). Should You Leave an Underground Oil Tank Buried? Dyker Heights Brooklyn Christmas Lights. After all, its an understatement to say that this part of NYC.goes to town with its holiday decorations and lights. And since youll need to work as a team, an escape room is one of the unique things to do in NYC for groups, couples, or families. New York state has a sales tax of 4% but combined with the. Check the calendar for upcoming tours and other special events. While this event has already passed, this exciting event is definitely worth putting on your list for next year. We are breaking up this article into the following types of holiday activities, so scroll ahead if youre not into one category. Columbus Circle is an elegant and beautiful holiday market. Follow me foradventures, tips and a travel show! While you here, admire the view of Manhattans most iconic landmarks and enjoy some local eats and drinks from the resident food trucks. Dont worry, you dont need a food tour to taste the best of this! The houses here are really cute and trust me when I say that you dont need to drive another 2 hours to see something different in New York. While kind of overrated and crowded, this light show might be a fun option to see during off-peak times for kids and families. When you visit The Met, dont skip the roof garden. A new art installation, Justice Reflected, is now on display at Battery Park Citys Esplanade Plaza. 10 Day Trips From New York City You Need to Take. Last admissions are also thirty minutes before the garden closes. grave where people sometimes congregate to celebrate Houdinis life. Skip the touristy exhibition in Times Square and head to one of my favorite novelty museum exhibitions in New York, the Panorama of the City of New York! But, the great thing about these tours is that theres a range of different options with each relating to a specific theme. As much a symbol of New York as the Empire State Building and the Statue of Liberty, the Christmas tree at Rockefeller In place of the traditional ponies, the SeaGlass Carousel in Battery Park invites you to hop aboard a giant fiberglass fish. So, forget about the tallest skyscraper in the city and the largest park in the Big Apple. There are over 15 attractions here, from Santas Work Shop to the Enchanted Forest of Lights and an endless number of walkthrough light displays. For now, visitors can explore the grounds and admire the estate from the outside. Its a bit strange seeing Bushwick gentrifying so much as a New Yorker, however youll want to look up the Bushwick Collective. Avoid the insane line and get your tickets now! Address: 860 Manhattan Avenue, Brooklyn New York. Then,Paris. To mark the occasion, the Brooklyn Public Library is hosting a virtual discussion with four writers Emilio Fraia, Helon Habila, Andrs Neuman, and Patrice Nganang about the World Cup. Satisfy your sweet tooth at the Museum of Ice Cream, 12. Here, youll find great music, a disco bathroom, drag shows, and a fully inclusive environment to dance with your friends. Snowy winters, beautiful springs, warm summers, and vibrant falls, youll be lucky to call this place home. The show takes place Sunday, Nov. 20 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Prospect Park Boathouse + Audubon Center. Consider pairing both events in one ticket! Although beer halls used to be more common throughout New York, this Czech-run beer hall is still in business 100 years later. gates that are a must for any self-respecting Instagrammer! Although people assume that New York is all skyscrapers, Queens is full of normal houses where normal New Yorkers live. This magical bar is the perfect weird thing to do in New York City for Harry Potter fans and witches alike. Although you might have heard of Chinatown, Flushing is at the epicenter of New Yorks Chinese community. Usually, theres a site-specific installation on view (you can see Alex Da Cortes As Long as the Sun Lasts until October 31, 2021). Today, you can walk past some of these semi-abandoned buildings as they figure out what is next for this land (likely condos..). If youll be visiting New York in time for the holidays, I recommend taking a detour to Dyker Heights! And best of all? Another of the quirkier museums and most unique things to do in NYC is the Tenement Museum. The company came up with an innovative plan to use the roofs of neglected buildings to grow fruit and vegetables. Review from my dad: I had my doubts about whether it would teach me anything new about my home city of New York. After all, were talking glamping here, not your standard camping. Visitors could watch the goats in action and vote for the favorites. One of the most unusual places to visit in New York has to be the Queens County Farm. Virgin Experience Gifts makes it easy to find top things to do in NYC, from local Manhattan events to unique activities! Its facade and interiors hark back to bygone days while the atmosphere is amiable and casual. A great way to enjoy being close to downtown is to look at less populated neighborhoods outside the city like Larchmont and Manhasset. However, you can find cheaper alternatives outside the city, like. There is even a coffin, which he used to perform his famous escape stunt, as well as an x-ray taken of a bullet in his hand. Click for my self-guided tour of the best places to eat on the Lower East Side. So what about unique things to do in NYC at night? Tell me, did your picks for the best hidden gems in NYC make the list? NYC Ferries only cost $2.75 and travel along the East River. We heart New York on Valentine's Day. That building was torn down in 1812 and replaced in 1842. In fact, Brookylns first and only rooftop vineyard lets you sample their wines with a view of Manhattan, making it one of the most unusual things to do in NYC. Brooklyn Grange came up with an ingenious way of utilizing derelict space when they became the worlds leading rooftop farm. This is another amazing event to add to your holiday trip list next year and could easily be paired with the SinterKlaas event if you turn your day trip into a weekend. Because yes, I really have lived in New York City for over thirty years and want to share all my snazziest tips with you. Yeah, this is actually one of the few surviving speakeasies from the Prohibition era making it an easy pick for one of the most unusual things to do in NYC. How to Get There: Take any train to Times Square and walk from there. 2. This haunting and enchanting cemetary spans 478 acres in Brooklyn, New York City. It was built in 1880 and first used in Sandy Hook, New Jersey. This outdoor gallery appeared on the scene in 1985, courtesy of Queens-based sculptor, Mark di Suvero. Once here, follow one of these hiking trails or see where your wanderings take you. 1. Meanwhile, the reading room is appointed with a huge ornate fireplace and plush velvet couches. Note: With the new COVID situation, it is no longer enough to just show up at Bryant Park. This tram departs from 59th St and 2nd Ave and flies high over the streets offering some of the best city views. The village of Port Jefferson transforms around the holidays into the Dickenson era, filled with well-known characters like Scrooge, Dickens Mayor, and Father Christmas. 31 FUN & INTERESTING Things to Do in Oswego, NY. Hammock Time on Governors Island. Us New Yorkers are proud of everything that started in New York and although we wont take credit for the American Revolution as much as we do for New York pizza (youre welcome! However, you can find cheaper alternatives outside the city, like Saratoga Springs or Buffalo. vantage points in New York, undoubtedly the best way to see the majestic sights Santas Wonderland is a newer-ish popup spot to see Christmas lights at South Street Seaports Pier 15. Perhaps the tradition of putting padlocks of During a construction project, a mass grave filled with human remains was found in New York. Well if not you do now, right!? Copyright 2022 travelnewyorknow.com. Located at the southwestern corner of Central Park, we recommend combining a visit to this market with other holiday light shows or a carriage ride. Four of those parts now reside in New York City. There you have it! You can visit independently or even join a tour. These are NOT year-round, so take advantage of the seasonal schedules and book ahead of time. Click here for my recommendations on the best places to shop on a budget in New York. By 2004, their popularity grew and Shake Shack opened a permanent stand in the park selling burgers, milkshakes and hot dogs. second-hand clothes and while it may require a bit of digging if you look hard Hours: Open daily from 12:00 am to 8:00 pm. Make a visit to witness this juxtaposition and see a real piece of history in a place you wouldnt expect. If you are a Disney fan, youll know the 1964 Worlds Fair was big for the company- Its a Small World, The Carousel of Progress and a few other shows debuted at this Fair. A mix of cultural and educational events also take place here aimed at locals, tourists, and kids. So, its definitely a good idea to consult whats on before rolling on up. This flagship location is still one of the best places to enjoy a ShackBurger al fresco. Throughout the summer, every Wednesday at 6 pm, hundreds of people meet at the Manhattan location and practice their best stretches. Tour the Catacombs at St. Patricks Basilica in Little Italy, 10. Just be aware that the Frying Pan is only open seasonally from May until October and is a lesser-known spot for lunch, dinner, or drinks. This park is home to one of the largest green spaces in New York. Hidden in the Bronx, youll find Arthur Avenue. Underneath the Basilica of St. Patrick has catacombs underneath. I definitely agree with you about seeing some off-Broadway shows too to save some coin but still have that experience. This former working farm, once the home of Alice Austen (whose home is on Staten Island), has now been taken over by the city. So, surfing at Rockaway Beach is one of the most unique things to do in NYC in summer or even winter since this epic beach benefits from year-round surf. 10/10 Town Square. Plus, each ride costs just $5 and this is a super fun activity for adults and kids alike. After all, the platform for the Edge protrudes out into mid-air and is engineered to give you the sense of floating in the sky. is like, here are ten pros and cons of living in New York to help you decide if this state is right for you. Each summer the HBO Film Festival sets up shop in Bryant Park, with a free film shown every Monday evening. At 1,146 acres, Van Cortlandt Park is the third-largest in the city. Check out the bottom of the article for more information on the writer! 11 Surprisingly Romantic Places in New York City. Their Concerts in the Park series has been a staple of summers in the Big Apple for thousands of New Yorkers. The Big Band Holiday Show is hosted from December 14th to 18th, with fresh Jazz arrangements of holiday classics. Why? Virgin Experience Gifts makes it easy to find top things to do in NYC, from local Manhattan events to unique activities! Calling all Beatles fans. As a result, you most deffo not find the Empire State Building on this list. A post shared by Graffitti Hall of Fame (@graffitihalloffame_nyc). See, the Morgan Library and Museum sits right around the corner from Grand Central Terminal and started out as the personal library of financier, collector, and cultural benefactor Pierpont Morgan. 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All of that said, if you live in the urban center of New York it can be a very expensive place to live. Because Rooftop Reds is a Brooklyn-based winery complete with a literal vineyard that grows on the terrace of this unique wine destination. One of the most surprising and unusual things to do in NYC is to visit a tropical rainforest. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. If youre a fan of Mrs. Maisel, you might be wondering where they filmed many of the classic bars scenes in Mrs. Maisel. Its brimming over with plant life and offers killer views of the city in addition to amazing outdoor art displays that regularly change. visiting New York in time for the holiday, taking a tour of the best Christmas light displays. Dont forget to check the ferry schedule before heading out. Its a great place to enjoy a beer with a pretzel. This open-air gallery run by Bushwick local Joseph Ficalora features local artists along with more famous street artists! The Houdini Museum based in Midtown is a Shop in a European-style outdoor market where each shop looks like an encased jewelry box! I recommend looking up KTV bars for the private experience. Attending the 2023 New Years Eve Ball Drop is a brave venture best saved when planning your NYC weekend getaways. I love Coney Island. FYI, the last admission is also 90 minutes before closing. Soaking up the nights drinks with a pile of pancakes or a plate of pierogi at 4 am is One of the most unusual places that Ive visited in New York has to be Jacob Riis Park. stores. Theres no denying that people move to New York to experience the iconic New York City. The Greenbelt is a relatively new part of Staten Island. The most iconic sights and attractions in New York City include: Statue of Liberty. The flagship Macys in Herald Square features a unique retail relic- wooden escalators. This page may contain compensated links. Here, you can taste Chinese food from various Chinese regions. However, the best thing about visiting Roosevelt Island is getting to ride the Roosevelt Island Tramway. If not then let me know in the comments below. This outdoor shopping and entertainment complex is transformed into a Christmas wonderland in December. The Sunshine Laundromat in Brooklyn is a laundromat, pinball arcade, and bar all rolled into one. 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