Header Notice

Winter is here! Check out the winter wonderlands at these 5 amazing winter destinations in Montana

Secret Spots In New York City You Didn’t Know Existed

Published:

by Saundra Fairbanks

secret-spots-in-new-york-city-you-didnt-know-existed

New York City is famous for its iconic landmarks like the Statue of Liberty, Times Square, and Central Park. But did you know there are hidden gems scattered throughout the city that even locals might not know about? From secret gardens to underground art galleries, New York City offers countless surprises waiting to be discovered. Imagine stumbling upon a quiet oasis in the middle of bustling Manhattan or finding a hidden speakeasy with the best cocktails you've ever tasted. These secret spots provide a unique way to experience the city beyond the usual tourist attractions. Ready to uncover some of these hidden treasures? Let's dive in!

Hidden Gems in the Big Apple

New York City is famous for its iconic landmarks like the Statue of Liberty, Times Square, and Central Park. But beyond these well-trodden paths, the city hides many secret spots waiting to be explored. Let's uncover some of these hidden treasures.

Secret Gardens and Green Spaces

Amidst the hustle and bustle of NYC, there are serene green spaces that offer a peaceful retreat from the city's chaos.

  1. The Elevated Acre: Tucked away in the Financial District, this hidden park offers stunning views of the East River and Brooklyn Bridge. It's a perfect spot for a quiet lunch or a relaxing break.

  2. Greenacre Park: Located in Midtown, this small park features a beautiful waterfall, lush greenery, and plenty of seating. It's an oasis of calm in one of the busiest parts of the city.

  3. The Cloisters: Part of the Metropolitan Museum of Art, this museum in Fort Tryon Park is dedicated to medieval European art and architecture. The surrounding gardens are equally enchanting.

Unique Museums and Cultural Spots

NYC is home to some lesser-known museums and cultural spots that offer unique experiences.

  1. The Museum of the American Gangster: Situated in the East Village, this museum delves into the history of organized crime in the United States. It's housed in a former speakeasy, adding to its allure.

  2. The City Reliquary: This quirky museum in Williamsburg, Brooklyn, showcases NYC artifacts and memorabilia. It's a treasure trove of the city's history and culture.

  3. Mmuseumm: Located in a tiny freight elevator in Tribeca, this micro-museum displays odd and interesting objects from around the world. It's a fascinating glimpse into the unusual.

Hidden Bars and Speakeasies

For those who enjoy a good drink, NYC has a number of hidden bars and speakeasies that offer a unique nightlife experience.

  1. Please Don't Tell (PDT): Accessed through a phone booth inside Crif Dogs in the East Village, this speakeasy serves up some of the best cocktails in the city.

  2. The Back Room: One of the few speakeasies that operated during Prohibition and still exists today, this Lower East Side bar serves drinks in teacups, just like in the 1920s.

  3. Angel's Share: Hidden behind an unmarked door in an East Village Japanese restaurant, this bar offers a sophisticated atmosphere and expertly crafted cocktails.

Quirky and Unusual Attractions

NYC is full of quirky and unusual attractions that are off the beaten path but well worth a visit.

  1. The Dream House: Created by artist La Monte Young and Marian Zazeela, this sound and light installation in Tribeca offers a unique sensory experience. It's a must-visit for those interested in experimental art.

  2. The Earth Room: This art installation by Walter De Maria in SoHo consists of a room filled with 280,000 pounds of dirt. It's a surreal and thought-provoking experience.

  3. The Tiny Dollhouse: Located on the Upper East Side, this shop specializes in miniature houses and accessories. It's a whimsical place that will delight both kids and adults.

Secret Foodie Spots

Food lovers will find plenty of hidden gems in NYC that offer delicious and unique culinary experiences.

  1. Burger Joint: Hidden behind a curtain in the lobby of the Parker New York Hotel, this no-frills burger spot serves up some of the best burgers in the city.

  2. Freeman's: Tucked away at the end of an alley off Rivington Street, this rustic restaurant offers a cozy atmosphere and delicious American fare.

  3. Spicy Village: This unassuming spot in Chinatown serves up some of the best Chinese food in the city. Their spicy lamb noodles are a must-try.

Offbeat Shopping Destinations

For those who love shopping, NYC has some offbeat destinations that offer unique finds.

  1. The Evolution Store: Located in SoHo, this shop sells natural history collectibles, including fossils, taxidermy, and unique gifts. It's a fascinating place to browse and shop.

  2. Obscura Antiques & Oddities: This East Village shop specializes in unusual antiques and oddities. It's a treasure trove of the bizarre and the curious.

  3. Artists & Fleas: This market in Williamsburg features a rotating selection of local artists, designers, and vintage collectors. It's a great place to find one-of-a-kind items.

Hidden Historical Sites

NYC is rich in history, and some of its most interesting historical sites are hidden in plain sight.

  1. The New York Marble Cemetery: Located in the East Village, this cemetery dates back to 1830 and is the final resting place of many prominent New Yorkers. It's a peaceful and historic spot.

  2. The Morris-Jumel Mansion: This historic house in Washington Heights is the oldest house in Manhattan. It served as George Washington's headquarters during the Revolutionary War and offers a glimpse into the city's past.

  3. The African Burial Ground National Monument: Discovered during construction in the 1990s, this site in Lower Manhattan is the final resting place of over 15,000 African Americans from the colonial period. It's a poignant and important historical site.

Hidden Gems Await

New York City holds countless hidden gems waiting to be explored. From the whispering gallery in Grand Central Terminal to the secluded gardens of the Cloisters, these spots offer a unique glimpse into the city's rich tapestry. Roosevelt Island provides a peaceful escape with stunning views, while the City Hall Station showcases architectural beauty beneath the streets. Greenacre Park offers a serene oasis amid the hustle and bustle. Each of these secret spots adds a layer of charm and mystery to the city. Next time you're in the Big Apple, venture off the beaten path and uncover these hidden treasures. You'll find that New York City has much more to offer than its famous landmarks. Happy exploring!