Discovering Hidden Gems is what we love the most, so check out some cool things to do in New York City.
Are you looking to discover some hidden gems in New York City? Today we will share with you some of our favorite things to do in NYC!
With the hustle and bustle of the city, it can be easy to overlook some incredible activities and attractions that are off-the-beaten-path.
In this blog post, we will provide tips on how to uncover these hidden places for locals and visitors alike – so that you don’t miss out on any of the amazing things New York City has to offer!
From delicious Italian eats in Little Italy to sampling craft beers at Yonkers Brewing Company, there are plenty of undiscovered adventures waiting for you.
Read on for our ultimate NYC guide!
Find the best things to do in New York City
Welcome to the city that never sleeps! New York City is truly a place like no other, with an endless array of things to see and do.
After exploring the well-known touristy spots, from the bright lights of Times Square, attending the best Broadway shows and witnessing some of the best musical and theatrical performances in the world….be sure to get tickets to the off-Broadway theaters like Cherry Lane, in the West Village, the longest continuously running Off-Broadway theater.
You should also start exploring to the quiet streets of Brooklyn where or the most amazing local vendors, hidden bars and local gems are.
Be sure to explore Carroll Gardens and Cobble Hill with so many local stores, coffee shops and super hype wine bars like June, on 231 Court Street – loved by locals!
Also, after taking a stroll through Central Park (that I have to say that should AWAYS be explored, regardless of the tourists) or grabbing a bite to eat in one of the trendy neighborhoods like SoHo or the Upper West Side, why not head up to explore Harlem?
We love having lunch or dinner at Seasoned Vegan, one of the best vegan restaurants in NYC.
I’ve taken MOST the meat-eating friends there and they can’t get enough of all the delicious dishes – and always want to go back again. I promise it’s going to surprise you!
If you decide to extend the day a bit more…Harlem is known for some of the most famous and traditional Jazz spots. One of the hidden spots we love is Room 623 – Harlem’s Speakeasy Jazz Club.
Or head down to spots in Manhattan love by locals and jazz lovers like Smalls, Blue Note and the hidden like spot: Zinc!
And don’t forget to explore the incredible street art and live music scene that thrives in this bustling city. Whether you’re a local or a tourist, there is always something new to discover in New York City.
Attend unique events
Looking for something out of the ordinary to do this weekend? Why not attend a unique event and discover some hidden gems?
Jazz clubs are the perfect place to unwind and explore some new sounds, while also enjoying a night on the town (like we just mentioned above).
Or, if Halloween is your jam, check out the annual Halloween parade in Greenwich Village, but after head to Blood Manor: New York’s Premier Haunted Attraction. You never know what kind of creative costumes or spooky surprises you’ll encounter along the way!
Exploring unique events can add a little excitement to your routine and give you the opportunity to discover something new.
So go ahead, grab some friends, and try something different this weekend. Be sure to check out venues like the Irving Plaza, or the Metropolitan Museum of Art for some interesting and offbeat events they host during the year (but you need to stay tuned to be sure to not to miss them).
For some Brooklyn spots, be sure to go to Bushwick. There you can explore places like The Keep NYC – a rustic vintage lounge with live music, psychic readings and burlesque performers; or Elsewhere – a huge venue featuring several spaces (including a roof terrace) with live music and DJ nights.
Plus, you’ll get the chance to explore some of New York City’s gems that are often overlooked.
Uncover interesting outdoor activities
Looking for some fun outdoor activities to check off your bucket list this summer?
If you’re a first timer in NYC, be sure to get lost in New York City’s Central Park, walk the High Line path, and experience the Hudson River Park.
But, after checking off these touristy spots, be sure to head to attractions like Domino Park in Williamsburg Brooklyn or the underrated The Met Cloisters in Inwood (at the very tip of Manhattan). They are a branch of the Metropolitan, showcasing medieval art in a French monastery overlooking the Hudson – the sunset is priceless!
And, of course, head upstate! The Hudson Valley is super exciting and full of incredible outdoor experiences. If you enjoy hiking, canoeing, biking, or just finding a remote spot with no visitors for a delicious picnic, plan your trip.
On the other hand, if you prefer the beach or enjoying a wine tasting, Long Island can be the perfect destination – from the secret Sag Harbor town to Macari Vineyards and , they have it all!
With so many exciting options, your summer adventure in NYC is sure to be unforgettable!
Sample amazing cuisine
If you’re a foodie, there’s no better place to be than in New York City! From classic American dishes like pizza and hot dogs, to mouthwatering international cuisine, the city has it all. You could spend a lifetime exploring all the amazing food spots in the Big Apple and still never try everything.
And with so many talented chefs creating unique twists on traditional dishes, you’re sure to find something new and exciting every time you venture out to eat. So why not embark on a culinary adventure and sample some of the best cuisine New York has to offer? Your taste buds will thank you!
We recommend restaurants like: Roberta’s Pizza in East Williamsburg, the traditional Nathan’s hotdog, the Mediterranean restaurant Lighthouse BK.
We also love Chinese Tuxedo in Chinatown and Frevo – a 1 star Michelin restaurant with a hidden entrance behind a painting in a tiny art gallery in the West Village!
New York with never let you down!
Visit iconic sites and landmarks
Now, these following spots are definitely NOT hidden gems, but just true New York Gems! They are all must-visit spots.
Exploring the iconic sites and landmarks of a new city can be an exhilarating experience.
When visiting New York City, taking a tour of the Statue of Liberty should be at the top of your list. This iconic landmark represents freedom, hope, and opportunity, making it the perfect symbol of what America stands for.
But, a true unique experience, stop at Ellis Island. They have a secret tour called Behind The Scenes Tour Of The Abandoned Ellis Island Hospital. There, you’ll visit an abandoned hospital, walk into what was once an autopsy room, visit a former contagious disease ward and access spots not opened to the general public! How cool is that!?
Alternatively, for a closer look at the Brooklyn Bridge, take a stroll across this piece of engineering history. As one of the oldest suspension bridges in the United States, it stands as a testament to human innovation and vision.
Regardless of which landmark you choose, both will leave you in awe of the immense greatness that can be achieved when humans work towards a common goal.
New York City offers a truly unique experience unlike any other. From Broadway shows to local street art and music, the city is filled with interesting things to do and see.
There are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy like jet skiing in the Hudson River or exploring Central Park. And, a wealth of delicious cuisine to try.
Don’t forget to check out some of the unique events! Continue following us to get stay tuned with the best off-the-beat-path spots, events and brands!
Photo Credit: Courtesy of the venues, Kim-Julie Hansen, Renata Meirelles and wirestock on Freepik