Tag Archives: Secret Tour

The Behind The Scenes Tour Of The Abandoned Ellis Island Hospital is the perfect tour, if you’re the adventurous type, love exploring out of bound spots and also enjoys a bit of history and exciting stories!

BTSNYC Experiences On Going Abandoned Ellis Island Hospital Tour

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So start, we are proud to say that we have NYC’s top partners offering the best tours in the city. The behind the scenes tour of the abandoned Ellis Island Hospital is one of them!

Practically every Saturday (and a couple of Sundays), groups leave around 12pm and head towards Ellis Island. Guests are taken to explore a few out of bound spots not offered to the general public that will blow their minds and spark even more curiosities!

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Have you ever imagined visiting an abandoned hospital and walking in what was once an autopsy room? Or visit a former contagious disease ward – today cleared up, of course!? Plus, access spots not opened to the general public?

BTSNYC Experiences On Going Abandoned Ellis Island Hospital Tour Photo Credit Stephen Wilkes — Photo Credit: Stephen Wilkes

Here is a small description on what to expect from this tour:

“The abandoned Ellis Island Hospital complex—once the standard for United States medical care (and later transformed to the FBI headquarters when the island served as a detention center)—has been left to decay for nearly 60 years.

Now, our amazing partners is bringing you behind-the-scenes for a unique exploration of the abandoned facility.

On this experience, you’ll visit the contagious disease wards and the autopsy rooms. And still, have exclusive access to places usually closed to the public.

While Ellis Island has become one of New York City’s top tourist attractions, drawing over two million visitors per year, the 22-building South Side hospital complex is hidden in plain sight. It’s just to the left of disembarking passengers headed towards the Great Hall…

Looking at its desolate, skeletal frame, it’s difficult to imagine the backstory as one of the largest public health undertakings in American history.

Join us for our upcoming hard hat tour, guided by a Save Ellis Island docent. We’ll uncover its many, buried secrets.”

OMG!!! So cool, right? Save Ellis Island has their own tour. But, this one has a few extra secrets, as we mentioned in the beginning. We do access some pretty sweet out of bound spots to the public!

This is one of the tours we love the most! But, then again, we are always psyched about exploring abandoned spots that have groundbreaking history!

You’ll learn the most curious facts and have opportunity to shoot several “Instagram worthy” pictures. They will leave your followers in “awe” and might even go viral!

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS:

Discover buildings over 100-years-old, which have not been occupied since 1954
See an exhibition installed by the world-renowned artist JR, who has placed life-sized historic photographs of Ellis Island immigrants on interior walls of the hospital buildings
Visit the Laundry Building, where 3000+ pieces of laundry were washed and sanitized daily
Discover infectious and contagious disease wards, the kitchen, the autopsy room and other usually off-limits places

TOUR DETAILS:
Price: $90 / person — Your ticket includes the price of the ferry to and from Ellis Island.
Getting to the ferry: After purchasing this experience, you will receive a separate email a week prior to your tour date, which will include your Ferry ticket. Print this ticket and show it to security to board the Ferry. To reach the site, visitors will have to board a Statue Cruises ferry, which takes off by Castle Clinton in Battery Park, lower Manhattan. The tickets can also be used interchangeably for departure at Liberty State Park in New Jersey. Please REMAIN on the boat past the Statue of Liberty to get to Ellis Island.
Ticket Confirmation: After you book this experience, you will receive a confirmation email from our partner confirming you are attending the tour!

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In order to be on Ellis Island by the beginning of the tour (2pm), we recommend following this schedule:
– Start 11:30: Arrive to Castle Clinton ahead of time to allow time to clear the airport style security
– Then 1:10pm: Board the ferry at Castle Clinton (the ride is roughly 40-minutes)
– Finally 1:50pm: Arrive at Ellis Island and head to meeting location

What to wear: Closed-toe-shoes are mandatory. Please dress appropriately for the weather, as the buildings are not climate controlled.
What to know: The tour is approximately 2 hours long. It will make scheduled stops for quick photographs, but tripods and uni-pods are not allowed. Due to the nature of the buildings, all guests must stay with the tour guide at all times. The tour is inaccessible for people using wheelchairs or powered scooters, and kids must be 10+ years-old to join. Tickets are not refundable however we can accommodate changes up to two weeks prior to the tour date.

Did you enjoy our Behind the Scenes Tour at the Abandoned Ellis Island Hospital? If you are looking for a behind the scenes tour for your team or clients, contact our experts to learn more about our Corporate Experiences.

You might also enjoy our “Secret Behind The Scenes Grand Central Terminal Tour“!

Texts excerpts by our Partner!
Photo Credit: The featured image is Stephen Wilkes. He worked on a photo exhibition about the place, so locations visited may currently have a different layout.
*Last Update on Feb/2020.*

Secrets Of The Brooklyn Bridge Walking Tour

February 18, 2023

BTSNYC

The Brooklyn Bridge is certainly one of New York’s timeless attractions. Opened to the public on May of 1883, it became one of the world’s most famous – and gorgeous – bridges! Come experience the “Secrets Of The Brooklyn Bridge Walking Tour”!

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The Brooklyn Bridge Walking Tour will share with you some of the most amazing stories and secrets of this amazing landmark.

Beyond the Brooklyn Bridge’s stately exterior lies an epic origin story. Now, over 130 years old, the granite and limestone structure has dazzled both tourists and residents alike.

On this newest tour author, playwright and tour guide, Justin Rivers, will not only unpack the history behind the Brooklyn Bridge, but also explore its many hidden secrets. And there are countless!

For a brief teaser, take a look at the story and secrets behind this massive landmark.

This unique walking tour will give you a whole new appreciation for one of New York’s most iconic landmarks. Plus, you’ll have a change of capturing some of the most Instagrammable pictures ever!

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TOUR HIGHLIGHTS:

Explore the perimeter of the Manhattan and Brooklyn anchorages of the bridge;
Discover Brooklyn Bridge’s various secrets, including its old Cold War fall out shelter, the love locks, the Russian fur vaults, the bridge jumper survivor’s support group and so many others;
Cross the bridge span, which offers one of the best vantage points in New York City.

TOUR DETAILS:
Price: $35 / person
What to bring: Comfortable walking shoes.
What to know: The tour is 2-hours. Please consult with the MTA for weekend subway schedules and routing changes. NOTE: While this tour will cover the history of the bank vaults and Cold War shelter, we will not be going inside.
Ticket Confirmation: After you book this experience, you will receive a confirmation email from our partner confirming you are attending the tour!

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We’re normally pretty modest, but when it comes to our countless tours, we have to say that we offer some of the coolest, and most exclusive ones in New York City!

Besides the Brooklyn Bridge Walking Tour, take a look at the Underground Art In The NYC Subway Tour for some pretty cool exploration underneath Manhattan!

If you’re into Food Tours, you’ll love the “Bushwick Graffiti, Bites & Drinks Photo Tour” that happens in the super hype Bushwick neighborhood, in Brooklyn.

Lastly, go on your own to the 5 Offbeat Museums in NYC you should visit.

For Corporate Groups, let our experts take care of it for you! If you’re looking for Private Tours, we can also help you out!

Photo Credit: Courtesy
*Last Update on Feb/2023.*

Secret Behind the Scenes Grand Central Terminal Tour

January 9, 2023

BTSNYC

City Secrets Culture & Music Curiosities Ongoing Experiences Our Bucket Lists 10 Comments

Grand Central Terminal is one of New York City’s most amazing historical attractions. Even though it can be quite touristy, we always find a way to tweak it into a behind the scenes experience for you! Book your spot at our Secret Behind the Scenes Grand Central Terminal Tour!

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If you’ve never been to New York, or if you’ve been here countless times, the city can be quite overwhelming with things to do and places to go!

Even though we are always covering the best hidden spots, events and upcoming brands, there are quite a few historical places that will never negate! The city is overflowing with history and our efforts in keeping it live are tireless and endless!

One of the most magnificent and monumental attractions is our beloved Grand Central Terminal! We always get lost in thoughts and emotions when we walk through it.

We definitely experience a timeless affair with it!

The story behind this grandiose landmark is more than amusing, but let’s starts with saying it’s name correctly, ok?

People have the habit of calling it “Grand Central Station”. But, the correct name is “Grand Central Terminal”! Why? Because a terminal is where train lines “terminate”. It’s the start and ending point for trains, hence, it’s a Terminal, not a Station. So, let’s start saying the name right!

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In the past, the Grand Central Terminal was seen as an embarrassment to the city of New York, and you can’t even imagine why!

This behind the scenes Grand Central Terminal tour will take you through the common areas. In addition, it will also give you so much rich, unpublished and private information of things people don’t quite notice while rushing by!

But wait, we want to tell you more! You’ll also finally be told where the 4 Whispering Arches are, if you haven’t found it yet.

Want something ultra top secret!? Ask about the M42, a secret sub-basement. Why it’s completely blocked by security and why its exact location is so closely guarded! The story is thrilling!

During the 2nd World War, even Hitler tried infiltration spies to gain access to destroy it, but was thankfully unsuccessful. It does not even show in the Terminal’s blueprints and maps, due to is secrecy.

So, expect not only to see many of the traditional spots – with secret information, but also experience some quite unique places within the building!

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS:

Peek into the entrance of the glass walkways;
Locate its lost armchairs;
Learn about Grand Central Terminal’s backwards ceiling;
See its hidden tennis courts;
Learn many more of its secrets!

DETAILS:
Price: $39 / person
What to wear: Bring comfortable shoes.
What to know: The tour is 1.5 hours long; please consult with the MTA for weekend subway schedules and routing changes. Please note that due to enhanced security measures, Grand Central no longer allows access to places like the M-42 basement, FDR train car or glass walkways to non Metro-North or MTA employees.
Ticket Confirmation: After you book this experience, you will receive a confirmation email from our partner confirming you are attending the tour!

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To organize a behind the scenes tour for your team or a special group of clients, contact our experts to learn more about our Corporate Tours & Experiences.

If you enjoy this type of tour, be sure to check what the Underground New York Subway Tour is all about! Plus, for the music lovers, explore these secret music gigs that happen around town!

Photo Credit: ©Behind the Scenes NYC
*Last Update on Jun/2023.*

Behind The Scenes NYC On ExportHub: Live Your Dream

April 19, 2018

BTSNYC

About BTSNYC What The Press Says No Comments

Once again, Behind the Scenes NYC (BTSNYC) is featured in the press! This time, ExportHub talks about what BTSNYC is and how we are disrupting the travel industry in New York.

With a fantastic journey from Brazil to New York, Fernanda Paronetto (a.k.a. Our Founder), started Behind the Scenes NYC back in April of 2014.

Today, the company is considered one of the top platforms for visitors and locals that want to explore New York off-the-beaten-path. In addition, Fernanda was also featured as one of New York’s top travel entrepreneurs, on the Huffington Post.

ExportHub posted a great article about what Behind the Scenes NYC is really up to and how we are disrupting the travel industry in New York!

See below a small excerpt:

Recently, I read an inspiring story about Fernanda Paronetto and her struggle to get an American visa and live in New York City for good. Her passions to live in the city and chase your dreams are something we all think about, but only a few individuals dare to achieve it.

Keeping that in mind, Behind the Scene NYC (BTSNYC) is a website providing professional concierge services to the locals and visitors to have a remarkable experience. Being a corporate planning and management boutique firm which specializes in providing unique and non-touristic experiences to the people, the website truly offers something intriguing.

Many of you would be asking how does this work? With more than a million followers from all over the world, BTSNYC focuses on some of the most exotic and economical hot-spots for the people, providing with inclusive and unique events which fascinate your clients, your company, or your friends and family members. This type of service might be referred as a fresh approach towards event management and travel planning.

…to be continued…

Did you enjoy it?! Continue reading.

If you want to see more about Fernanda’s journey and how she actually made it in New York, see this amazing post featured on GoalCast.

The Secrets of Central Park Walking Tour

December 20, 2017

BTSNYC

Entertainment Fitness & Health Home & Kids Ongoing Experiences Tours & Experiences No Comments

Central Park is certainly one of the most beautiful and famous parks around the world! But, its secrets are still very well-kept. Come explore the Secrets of Central Park Walking Tour.

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Did you know that Central Park was once the site of a former African-American village called Seneca Village in the 19th-century ?

Or that it was previously home to an infamous casino, where alcohol flowed throughout the Prohibition?

For almost 160 years, Central Park has been the green heart of the city, serving as a pastoral haven for New Yorkers and visitors alike.

It’s been not only the scenery of countless famous movies, but also a memorable spot in many hearts that have experienced breathtaking wedding proposals in the middle of the park.

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Even so, it still holds many secrets that have yet to be discovered. On this walking NYC tour we’ll explore the history behind some of its best-loved and hidden sites.

Learn about the genesis, design, and evolution of the immense green space, while uncovering its many outrageous happenings, scandals and more.

Tour Highlights:

Hear about the massive civic project that transformed a wasteland into an urban pleasure ground
Learn about the curious origins of the Central Park Zoo and the corruption scandal that caused a riot
Uncover the hidden meaning in Bethesda Terrace’s sculptures and the forbidden love that inspired the park’s most famous statue
See the secret bolt left behind from the creation of Manhattan’s street grid
Discover the secret navigational device that keeps pedestrians from getting lost on the park’s winding paths

DETAILS:
Price: $35 / person
What to bring: Comfortable walking shoes
What to know: The tour is approximately 2 hours long and covers 2 miles. Note: some of the walking surfaces are uneven and require ascending a moderate incline.
Ticket Confirmation: After you book this experience, you will receive a confirmation email from our partner confirming you are attending the tour!

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The Secrets of Central Park is truly a great walking NYC tour and we always love doing it.

You might also enjoy the “Secrets of the Brooklyn Bridge Walking Tour“, “Behind The Scenes Tour at the Abandoned Ellis Island Hospital” and “Secret Behind The Scenes Grand Central Terminal Tour“.

If you are looking to book a Private Tour for your family and friends, contact our experts. For Corporate Group, let us assist you too!

Photo Credit: Courtesy of Noel Y. C. (aka NYCLovesNYC). Pictures taken during the Fall season.
*Late Update on Feb/2020.*

VIP Tour Of The Historic Woolworth Building

December 19, 2017

BTSNYC

City Secrets Culture & Music Entertainment Ongoing Experiences Tours & Experiences No Comments

This is one of the most exclusive tours in New York! Why? Because no one else offers it, besides BTSNYC and our partner! Be part of the VIP Tour of the historic Woolworth Building!

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Never heard of the historic Woolworth building? We are sure you have! You’ve certainly seen the criminology expert, Lincoln Rhyme, played by Denzel Washington in the film The Bone Collector, find a clue to the crimes related to the building!

Well, the Woolworth Building, in TriBeCa, is privately owned and operated, and is not open to the public.It was appointed as the tallest building in the world, back in 1913!

Plus, their completely renovated Penthouse was listed for astounding price of $110million, and was relisted in 2019 for $79 million.

We are excited to offer this new, exclusive tour of the normally off-limits Woolworth Building led by building architect Cass Gilbert’s great granddaughter, Helen Post Curry – who runs the Woolworth Building tours.

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Cass Gilbert was Curry’s paternal great grandfather and she began running tours in the Woolworth Building on the 100th anniversary of the landmark.

And, as Curry says herself, “there are so many behind-the-scenes secrets about the Woolworth Building”! It’s so exciting to share them with you on this special, insiders tour.

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS:

Special access to the gorgeous mezzanine level;
The tour will include a guided visit through the spectacular “cathedral-esque” lobby;
Visit the cellar level where the bank vault is located and where the former entrances to the nyc subway are.

TOUR DETAILS:
Price: $45 / person
What to know: The tour is one-hour long and is happening rain or shine! Please do not enter the Woolworth Building without our tour guide. So, wait outside until the tour guide arrives. They allow photographs but no flashes or videos permitted. In addition, there are no public restroom facilities available, and no food or drink or pets allowed in the building. Children under 10 years old are not permitted.
What to wear: Bring comfortable shoes.
Ticket Confirmation: After you book this experience, you will receive a confirmation email from our partner confirming you are attending the tour!

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Moreover, if you’re into architecture and art, we are sure you’ll love other Art Tours in New York and upstate! Plus, this a look at this super cool post where you can see the 7 Best Places in Long Island City for Art Lovers.

So, contact us to learn more about them. For Corporate Requests, let our experts know what you need!

Photo Credits: Courtesy of Williams New York and Wikimedia Commons
*Last Update on Feb/2020.*

Private Untold Stories Of 9/11 Walking Tour

December 19, 2017

BTSNYC

Culture & Music Entertainment Ongoing Experiences Tours & Experiences No Comments

Everyone knows the general information of the 9/11 attacks, but most people have never heard of the untold stories! Come experience the Private Untold Stories Of 9/11 Walking Tour to know it all.

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The attacks of September 11, 2001 were a seminal event, forever changing New Yorkers and their city.

While most of us are familiar with the basic elements of that day, there are fascinating facts and stories that are seldom told.

On this walking tour, we’ll uncover lesser-known aspects of the tragedy.

Discover the roots of the attacks and visit sites that played a key role in the incident.

You’ll learn about the rebuilding of Lower Manhattan, while hearing stories of extraordinary heroism and miraculous survival.

It’ll provide context for the most momentous event in New York’s history.

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TOUR HIGHLIGHTS:

Walk through the architectural vestiges of the original World Trade Center and uncover the meaning behind the design of the World Trade Center Memorial;
Hear about the largest water evacuation in world history. Plus, the site that became the center of rescue and relief efforts and the outrageous plans for a new World Trade Center;
In addition, discover the site of the first 9/11 Memorial. And, the Lower Manhattan landmark that was the target of a recent terrorist plot;
Finally, learn about the physical devastation of Lower Manhattan, the first terrorist attack in the neighborhood and the bizarre wreckage leftover.

TOUR DETAILS:
Price: $39 / person, minimum 10 guests or $390.
What to bring: Comfortable walking shoes.
What to know: The tour is 1.5 hours and covers approximately one mile.
Ticket Confirmation: After you book this experience, you will receive a confirmation email from our partner confirming you are attending the tour!

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Moreover, this is also a perfect tour for Corporate Groups looking for a different experience in Manhattan, specially since many companies are tired of the mainstream tours.

If you enjoyed the “Untold Stories Of 9/11”, you’ll probably have fun at the “VIP Tour Of The Historic Woolworth Building“. It’s a unique experience and certainly thrilling, since it’s not open at all to the public!

Photo Credit: Courtesy of Noel Y. C. (aka NYCLovesNYC)
*Last Update on Feb/2023.*

5 Offbeat Museums In NYC You Should Visit

September 23, 2017

BTSNYC

Curiosities Our Bucket Lists No Comments

You could visit the MoMA and take in the museum’s world-class modern art; or you could enjoy the medieval armor and Egyptian artifacts of The Met. But, you can also see 5 offbeat museums in NYC!

Curiosities Our Bucket Lists 5 Offbeat Museums NYC Transit Museum Photo Credit Black Paw Photo — Photo Credit: Black Paw Photo.

So, how about skipping those rudimentary Lonely Planet recommendations altogether and really jumping off the beaten path?

If you’re looking for a more unconventional approach to museum-hopping – or are simply fed up with long lines and $25-plus admission fees – Diane Pham, from 6sqft, has rounded up five unexpected experiences that only New York City insiders are keen to.

See below the 5 offbeat museums in NYC!

Harry Houdini Museum

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This tiny treasure hidden on the third floor of a Midtown building celebrates the world’s most important and influential magician, Harry Houdini.

In addition to housing a collection of several hundred of Houdini’s most important implements, including his straight jacket, a collection of handcuffs, and his escape coffin, the museum also hosts magic lectures and shows for the public.

When visiting, don’t be surprised if you run into your favorite magician or celebrity, according to the museum’s site, “famous magicians hang out here every day.”

Admission: Free

Hours:
Monday – Saturday: 10am – 6pm
Sunday: 10am – 5pm

Location: 421 7th Avenue, 3rd floor, Midtown

www.houdinimuseumny.com

New York Transit Museum

Curiosities Our Bucket Lists 5 Offbeat Museums NYC Transit Museum Secret Subway Station

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Most don’t think of the NYC subway as much more that a means to get from point A to point B, but the city’s mass transit history is both rich and fascinating.

Housed in an authentic 1936 subway station beneath Downtown Brooklyn, this underground treasure covers every bit of NYC transit history – from the men who dug the subway tunnels more than 100 years ago to the technology that keeps trains running today.

Here, you can also jump behind the wheel of a city bus, sit in a vintage subway car, or take in the turnstiles of yore.

Admission:
Adults – $10
Children (2-17) – $5
Seniors 62+ – $5, Seniors are free on Wednesdays (excludes senior group visits)
Museum Members free

Hours:
Tuesday – Friday: 10am – 4pm
Saturday & Sunday: 11am – 5pm
Closed Mondays and major holidays

Location: Boerum Place & Schermerhorn Street, Brooklyn

www.nytransitmuseum.org

Mmuseumm

Located in a freight elevator just a few blocks south of Canal Street is a museum specializing in the “overlooked, dismissed, or ignored.”

Open every Saturday and Sunday, Mmuseumm introduces curious onlookers to everyday, unexpected, and unusual objects from around the world; recent exhibitions have included “ISIS Currency,” “Embalming Accessories,” and “The Fake U.S Fast Food Franchises of Iran.”

Permanent pieces meanwhile include a shoe thrown at George W. Bush at the Minister’s Palace in Baghdad. Just note: only three can squeeze into the museum at once.

Admission: Pay as you wish with a $5 suggested donation for regular admission.

Hours:
Saturdays & Sundays: 12pm – 6pm
Mmuseumm is visible 24/7 through the viewing windows and by calling into the audio guide 1(888) 763 8839 from your mobile phone.

Location: 4 Cortlandt Alley

www.mmuseumm.com

Museum of the American Gangster

Curiosities Our Bucket Lists 5 Offbeat Museums NYC Museum of the American Gangster Quartet

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This diminutive, two-room museum dedicated to the history of the American gangster is very appropriately situated upstairs from a former speakeasy found along the St. Mark’s Place, in the East Village.

Beyond “newspapers, photographs and other original documents from the Prohibition Era,” the museum also keeps some incredible mob relics including John Dillinger’s death masks and bullets from the Saint Valentine’s Day massacre investigation.

And still, one of the bullets that brought down bank robber Charles Arthur “Pretty Boy” Floyd.

This museum is not for the faint of heart!

Admission: *Includes guided tour.*
Adult – $20
Students & Seniors – $12
Groups of 10 and over should contact museum.

Hours: Monday – Sunday: 1pm – 6pm

Location: 80 St. Marks Place

http://museumoftheamericangangster.org

Explorer’s Club

Curiosities Our Bucket Lists 5 Offbeat Museums NYC Explorers Club Glass Room

Curiosities Our Bucket Lists 5 Offbeat Museums NYC Explorers Club Room

Curiosities Our Bucket Lists 5 Offbeat Museums NYC Explorers Club Fireplace

Curiosities Our Bucket Lists 5 Offbeat Museums NYC Explorers Club Bear

Curiosities Our Bucket Lists 5 Offbeat Museums NYC Explorers Club Animals

Curiosities Our Bucket Lists 5 Offbeat Museums NYC Explorers Club Wall

Curiosities-Our-Bucket-Lists-5-Offbeat-Museums-NYC-Explorers-Club-Patio

Curiosities-Our-Bucket-Lists-5-Offbeat-Museums-NYC-Explorers-Club-Façade

Curiosities-Our-Bucket-Lists-5-Offbeat-Museums-NYC-Explorers-Club-Glass-Room

Curiosities-Our-Bucket-Lists-5-Offbeat-Museums-NYC-Explorers-Club-Room

Curiosities-Our-Bucket-Lists-5-Offbeat-Museums-NYC-Explorers-Club-Fireplace

Curiosities-Our-Bucket-Lists-5-Offbeat-Museums-NYC-Explorers-Club-Bear

Curiosities-Our-Bucket-Lists-5-Offbeat-Museums-NYC-Explorers-Club-Animals

Curiosities-Our-Bucket-Lists-5-Offbeat-Museums-NYC-Explorers-Club-Wall

In theme with this list, we’d be remiss not to mention the Explorer’s Club Headquarters of New York.

Founded in 1904, the Explorers Club was created as a gathering place and a means to promote the work of those involved in the scientific exploration of land, sea, air, and space. The club is today housed in an 1910 Jacobean revival mansion on the Upper East Side.

It features a spectacular collection of 13,000 books, 1,000 museum objects, 5,000 maps, and 500 films. You’ll also find a trove of taxidermied animals on the top floor of the storied structure, most of which date back to the early days of the Club when taxidermy was used to preserve animals for study and education.

Back then, traveling anywhere required incredible effort, and the use of photography had not yet spread.

Admission: Free

Hours:
September through June: The Club is open to members and their guests from 9am-9pm Monday – Friday. Certain designated rooms of the Club are open to the general public from 9am-6pm.
Summer Hours (July and August): Monday – Friday: 9am – 6pm
The Club is closed on Saturdays & Sundays

Location: 46 East 70th Street

https://explorers.org

We have no doubt that you enjoyed these 5 offbeat museums in NYC. So, if you want to organize a private tour or experience for you and your family, or you want a specific type of tour catered to you, contact our experts. We are able to cater any type of tour in New York.

Plus, we’ve worked with big Corporate groups, so if you are looking for assistance for your team, or your clients, we can assist you all the way.

Photo Credits: Courtesy of the Museusms and Black Paw Photo
*Last Update on March/2020.*

We Love Uncovering The NYC Subway Secrets

August 10, 2017

BTSNYC

City Secrets Curiosities No Comments

One of the things we love the most in New York City, is uncovering the NYC subway secrets. We compiled a few of what we most enjoyed!

Curiosities City Secrets NYC Secret Subway FDR Tracks Waldorf Astoria — Secret FDR Tracks beneath the Waldorf Astoria Hotel – ©Behind the Scenes NYC

There is just so much to talk about when the subject is: NYC subway secrets. It’s hard even to know where to start from.

To start, maybe we should go back and see how it all began:

“At 2:35 on the afternoon of October 27, 1904, New York City Mayor George McClellan takes the controls on the inaugural run of the city’s innovative new rapid transit system: the subway.

At 7 p.m. that evening, the subway opened to the general public, and more than 100,000 people paid a nickel each to take their first ride under Manhattan.

IRT service expanded to the Bronx in 1905, to Brooklyn in 1908 and to Queens in 1915.

Since 1968, the subway has been controlled by the Metropolitan Transport Authority (MTA). The system now has 26 lines and 468 stations in operation; the longest line, the 8th Avenue “A” Express train, stretches more than 32 miles, from the northern tip of Manhattan to the far southeast corner of Queens.

Every day, some 4.5 million passengers take the subway in New York.”

~ via History.com

That said, we can still list some other peculiarities that we love about the NYC subway secrets:

1. Did you know that there are many abandoned platforms, like the one underneath 42nd street on the A/C/E line?

2. The FDR Subway Track – Track 61 (picture above!), beneath the Waldorf Astoria Hotel is one of the most protected sites. FDR, stands for Franklin Delano Roosevelt and was used exclusively by him during his Presidency, due to his physical impairment, after contracting Polio. Even though we had to luck of going down there, today Track 61 is completely out of bounds for the public.

3. Wanderlust Projects, know for their illegal parties, that trespasses authorized areas, has organized an illegal party in an abandoned Subway Station. We love these guys!

4. Up through 2006, the New York City transit system operated an armored Money Train that took all money collected from fairs to a safe place at 370 Jay Street, Brooklyn. (You can see more at the New York Transit Museum).

5. Joralemon Street, in Brooklyn Heights, has a fake townhouse, in the middle of several others colored ones, that hides a ventilation shaft for the Subway.

6. MTA Arts for Transit invited the sculpture Tom Otterness, in 2004, to create those beautiful little bronze creature spread through out the 14th Station and 8th Avenue. See more about his project below:

…and still:

7. The Knickerbocker Hotel was once a very acclaimed hotel, where names like F.Scott Fitzgerald and John D. Rockefeller used to “hang”. The forgotten white door at Track 1 on Times Square/42nd Street station.

8. When you get the Q Line from Dekalb into Manhattan (the abandoned Myrtle Ave station), you will be able to witness the Masstransiscope artwork by Bill Brand, installed in the year of 1980. This was once the is located in the abandoned Myrtle Ave station. Facing the front of the train, you need to sit on the left side seats.

9. We love the Underbelly Project, dating back a few years to 2009. See below where some of the most amazing works of art are secretly hidden.

10. Decommissioned in 1945, the famous City Hall Subway Station has maybe the most amazing architectural designs of all. How to see it? Stay on the 6 train after its last stop, at Brooklyn Bridge. It will continue running, and you’ll be able to see a bit from this station, when you pass by. Beware: it might get a little dark, since lights might go out at some point. Just, stay cool.

11. The Woolworth Building had an exclusive and direct access into the subway, for all the tenants. For an exclusive tour into the building, contact our experts!

12. The weird “finger-pointing” moment that every conductor does before opening the train’s doors, is simply for safety reasons, indicating that the train is completely stopped.

…finally:

13. Famous people have done fantastic works of “art” in the subway. Take a look at what Aaron from Underground_NYC has created through the dance moves of the famous Brazilian ballerina, Ingrid Silva:

Curiosities City Secrets NYC Secret Subway Ingrid Silva by Underground NYC — Ingrid Silva by Underground_NYC.

…there is just so much more, but we’ll leave it for a second article about the NYC subway secrets!

So, with all this, there are a few books and gadgets we’d like to recommend, if you’re into these secret subway stories and adventures like us:

1. Beneath the Streets: The Hidden Relics of New York’s Subway System
2. The City Beneath Us: Building the New York Subway
3. Lost in NYC: A Subway Adventure: A TOON Graphic (Toon Graphics) (for Kids)
4. Helvetica and the New York City Subway System: The True (Maybe) Story
5. The New York City Subway: The History of America’s Largest and Most Famous Subway System
6. My Subway Ride (for Kids)
7. The Race Underground: Boston, New York, and the Incredible Rivalry That Built America’s First Subway
8. Sterling Industries 138-094 Double Sided Wall Clock with Map of New York Subway
9. New York Puzzle Company – New York City Transit MTA Subway Kids – 36 Piece Jigsaw Puzzle (for Kids)
10. Glossy Paper Subway Gift Bags
11. and still, a New York City Subway Map Poster Print

And last, we hope you enjoyed this post, as much as we enjoyed doing it!

Yup, we are fascinated with uncovering the NYC subway secrets!

Text Excerpts: History.com
Photo Credits: ©Behind the Scenes NYC and Courtesy of Underground_NYC
*Last Update on March/2020.*

Curiosities of Grand Central Terminal, A New York Landmark

November 4, 2015

BTSNYC

City Secrets Curiosities No Comments

Grand Central Terminal is a New York landmark that we just can’t ignore. This is actually one of our favorite spots in the city and the secret stories behind this monumental place is incredible. Below are some curiosities you will enjoy!

Curiosities City Secrets Curiosities of Grand Central Terminal New York Landmark by Anu Mahendran — Photo Credit: Courtesy of Anu Mahendran

We have to confess: we are a little obsessed with the Grand Central Terminal and its story. There is just so many behind the scenes secret stories to share…

Everything is thrilling, from all the secrets it holds, to the uncovered mysterious places in it, to the breathtaking architecture and the startling number of people that passed by it daily – 750,000!

That is to say, our friends at Untapped New York have put together a sensational post with 10 quick curiosities about the Grand Central Terminal. We decided to share it with you!

So, did you know that:

You can play tennis in Grand Central;
There is a top secret room that doesn’t even appear on maps or blueprints;
A hidden brick is an effective, if unintentional, anti-smoking ad;
Some of the iron eagles have gone missing;
No one knows if the “whispering gallery” was built to whisper on purpose;
Grand Central houses a hidden bar;
The sculptor who designed the statue in front of the building was kind of a snob;
Track 61 still serves as a means of clandestine transportation;
Grand Central has the largest basement of any building in New York City;
And last, the ceiling is backwards!

If you enjoy uncovering these types of spots when you travel, we offer a fantastic Secret Behind The Scenes Grand Central Terminal Tour that will blow your mind. You will have an experience that not everyone is able to have. Plus, we visit many of the spots that we mentioned on the list above!

Super cool, right?

Lastly, if you are looking for corporate concierge services and need help organizing a unique experience for your executives or clients, we are also able to assist you. For private tours & experiences, contact us.

Location: 89 East 42nd Street

www.grandcentralterminal.com

Text Excerpts: Originally by Untapped New York
Photo Credit: Anu Mahendran from anoomaggie.blogspot.com
*Last Update on March/2020.*

The Behind The Scenes Tour Of The Abandoned Ellis Island Hospital is the perfect tour, if you’re the adventurous type, love exploring out of bound spots and also enjoys a bit of history and exciting stories!

This is one of the tours we love the most! But, then again, we are always psyched about exploring abandoned spots that have groundbreaking history!

The Brooklyn Bridge is certainly one of New York’s timeless attractions. Opened to the public on May of 1883, it became one of the world’s most famous – and gorgeous – bridges! Come experience the “Secrets Of The Brooklyn Bridge Walking Tour”!

Grand Central Terminal is one of New York City’s most amazing historical attractions. Even though it can be quite touristy, we always find a way to tweak it into a behind the scenes experience for you! Book your spot at our Secret Behind the Scenes Grand Central Terminal Tour!

In the past, the Grand Central Terminal was seen as an embarrassment to the city of New York, and you can’t even imagine why!

Want something ultra top secret!? Ask about the M42, a secret sub-basement. Why it’s completely blocked by security and why its exact location is so closely guarded! The story is thrilling!

Once again, Behind the Scenes NYC (BTSNYC) is featured in the press! This time, ExportHub talks about what BTSNYC is and how we are disrupting the travel industry in New York.

See below a small excerpt:

Central Park is certainly one of the most beautiful and famous parks around the world! But, its secrets are still very well-kept. Come explore the Secrets of Central Park Walking Tour.

This is one of the most exclusive tours in New York! Why? Because no one else offers it, besides BTSNYC and our partner! Be part of the VIP Tour of the historic Woolworth Building!

Everyone knows the general information of the 9/11 attacks, but most people have never heard of the untold stories! Come experience the Private Untold Stories Of 9/11 Walking Tour to know it all.

You could visit the MoMA and take in the museum’s world-class modern art; or you could enjoy the medieval armor and Egyptian artifacts of The Met. But, you can also see 5 offbeat museums in NYC!

Harry Houdini Museum

New York Transit Museum

Mmuseumm

Museum of the American Gangster

Explorer’s Club

One of the things we love the most in New York City, is uncovering the NYC subway secrets. We compiled a few of what we most enjoyed!

That said, we can still list some other peculiarities that we love about the NYC subway secrets:

…and still:

…finally:

Grand Central Terminal is a New York landmark that we just can’t ignore. This is actually one of our favorite spots in the city and the secret stories behind this monumental place is incredible. Below are some curiosities you will enjoy!

So, did you know that:

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