If you’ve been to New York before or if you simply want to get off the beaten path, you might want help to discover some less common, unusual or unique things to do in NYC.
I recently write a 4-day New York itinerary. It is aimed at first-time visitors, so while it does include some less touristy spots, it covers all the amazing things you’d want to do in NYC, many of which are well-known and ‘must-do’ type activities. However, I know some people want to explore beyond the big sights and famous landmarks.
That’s where this article comes in! I’ve been to New York enough times to have had some unique NYC experiences, but I figured I’d get a more varied list if I included other travellers’ recommendations as well as my own. For that reason, I have collaborated with several other travel bloggers who also know and love New York.
This is our combined set of ideas for unique things to do in NYC that are a little different to the norm.
Disclosure: This article contains affiliate links. These are links to products or experiences I recommend and if you were to buy something after clicking on them, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Any earnings go towards the upkeep of this blog, which I appreciate.
22 Unique Things To Do In NYC
Here are our ideas for off-the-beaten-track things to do in NYC. By definition, these are not massive crowd-pleasers, so I imagine some won’t be your cup of tea. But I hope you find something to pique your interest.
Unique NYC Experiences & Activities
First up: unique things to do in NYC that are experiences or activities.
1. Governor’s Island
When visiting NYC, go beyond the tourist sites by taking a quick ferry ride to Governors Island — which is technically in Manhattan but feels like a completely different destination. This car-free island is the epitome of peace as you walk and bike around and take in some of the best views in NYC for free.
One really fun thing to do is to rent a grill for the day at Picnic Point, where you can cook, sip, and chill in Adirondack chairs while taking in the skyline and Statue of Liberty.
Other highlights of Governors Island include seafood and cocktails with a view at Island Oyster, a spa day at QC NY Spa, glamping with Collective Retreats, and attending one of the many events — like Jazz Age Lawn Party, an annual celebration of all things 1920s. Alternatively, you can simply wander without a plan and enjoy the views, gardens, historic sites, art installations, and more.
2. Open-Door Helicopter Ride
Contributed by Pierre from WayfareWithPierre.com
Let’s face it- we’ve all seen those unreal photos on Instagram of someone flying over the Statue of Liberty with their legs hanging out of an open-door helicopter. After seeing this kind of photo for what was probably the 100th time, I finally gave in and decided to give it a try myself on my most recent visit to New York City. I booked my helicopter tour with FlyNYON, one of the best options around.
It was an absolutely unforgettable experience, and you truly get the best NYC views imaginable. For safety, FlyNYON gives you a safety briefing as well as a harness. You can choose an open or closed-door flight, but I highly recommend going with the open-door option.
By taking an open-door helicopter tour, you’re able to truly take in the beauty of New York City and enjoy panoramic views of some of the world’s most prized landmarks. You’ll soar over many of NYC’s iconic skyscrapers and landmarks, including the Brooklyn Bridge, Central Park, the Statue of Liberty, and the Brooklyn Bridge.
The tour also takes you down the Hudson River and up along the East River, offering views of some iconic neighborhoods such as Greenwich Village and the Upper East Side.
Whether you’re a first-time tourist or a local looking for new ways to experience New York City, an open-door helicopter tour offers one of the best unique and unforgettable perspectives of the city that you won’t find anywhere else. Sure, the tour only lasts about 20 minutes, but the memories will last a lifetime.
3. Coney Island Sideshows By The Seashore
Contributed by Megan of Your Brooklyn Guide
For unique things to do in NYC, look no further than a visit to Coney Island for Sideshows by the Seashore, formerly the Coney Island Side Show.
Coney Island is full of unique things to do, but this activity really tops the cake when it comes to eccentric and quirky performances from fire breathers to acrobatics.
Located near the famous Coney Island Beach, Boardwalk, and amusement park rides like Deno’s Wonder Wheel, the Coney Island Circus Sideshow is a classic ten-in-one circus show with talented performers who are dedicated to their unique craft and skills.
It’s actually said that this is the last permanently housed traditional style ten-in-one sideshow in existence in the country! And what better place to have it than at Coney Island, one of the country’s oldest and most beloved amusement parks?
The show runs continuously, so you can pop in at any time and leave when you feel like it. While Coney Island is typically a seasonal destination, the Sideshow by the Seashore does offer special shows throughout the year making it a reason to check and see if Coney Island is in your cards during your trip even if you’re not visiting in the summer months.
4. Queen’s County Farm
Contributed by Simeon from Tozome.com
The Queens County Farm Museum is a valuable example of the agricultural heritage that once flourished in the Big Apple. As one of the last remaining working farms in NYC and the longest continuously farmed site in the state, it is a unique attraction for anyone looking to go off the beaten path or gather travel quotes.
The farm was originally established in the 17th century by the Adriance family and was run by their descendants for nearly three centuries. The current farmhouse, built around 1772 by Jacob Adriance, still stands and retains much of its original character.
In 1927, the State of New York purchased the farm and incorporated it into the Creedmoor Psychiatric Center, with patients from the center utilizing the farm as part of their therapy. Although the formal farming program at Creedmoor eventually ended, caretakers continued to work the land out of their love for farming.
In 1973, when the historic buildings were slated for demolition, the efforts of local residents resulted in the State transferring the land and buildings to the City to be preserved as a public park. Today the farm offers a bounty of fresh produce, including flowers, herbs, fruits, and vegetables, which are sold on-site in the farm store, and raises a variety of livestock including goats and sheep.
5. Burlesque Show – Company XIV
Contributed by Geeves Joy from Real Girl Review
New York is a city with no shortage of wacky and outlandish adventures for people to get themselves into. After all, it is the city that never sleeps.
But, nothing struck my eye more than a variety show performed in an unassuming art house in Brooklyn, who’s known for being a bit more abstract than its cousin Manhattan when it comes to activities.
The troupe is called Company XIV and they’ve been performing various styles of burlesque, cabaret and ballet for over 10 years, much to the acclaim of outlets like the New York Times and Huffington Post.
When you walk in, you’re instantly transported to a different universe where aerialists twirl from the ceiling in Lady Gaga sky-high heels and muscular men in tutus and Agent Provocateur corsets waltz down the aisle and kiss you during the show. It’s an evening of glittery albeit sometimes debaucherous entertainment and playful fun, for which they encourage you to do nothing less than throw back a drink and let your hair down.
If you’re someone who likes to be front and center, their VIP couch is calling your name. You’ll be served champagne while getting a close look at the eye candy all over the stage.
Unusual NYC Museums
Here are some museums that offer a more unique NYC experience than, say, the Met and the Natural History Museum.
6. Colour Factory
Contributed by Erin Burke from Flying Off the Bookshelf
If you’re looking for something to inspire joy and play during your visit to NYC, check out the Color Factory! This interactive museum highlights color, with everything from macarons to a confetti room to a giant ball pit. As you move throughout the museum, there are different opportunities to play with art and color, including a drawing room, a music room, and a silent dance party room.
The Color Factory is all about color as a sensory experience in every way imaginable and encourages play. It’s a perfect thing to add to your trip if you are traveling to NYC with kids, but it’s just as fun for adults too. (I mean, where else can grown adults play in a giant ball pit? And don’t worry…they are sanitized.)
Plus, it’s a fun Instagram spot and your ticket includes photos you take during your visit. AND you will get some fun small souvenirs and treats included.
To visit the Color Factory, you must buy your tickets online ahead of time. Timed-entry tickets range from $39 to $45. Hours vary daily (and they are closed some Wednesdays). Your ticket will be timed though, and they ask that you arrive 10-15 minutes early.
7. Tenement Museum
Contributed by Sarah from Mukikapup’s Travels
The Tenement Museum is a true gem in NYC! The museum tells the stories of US immigrants in the real-life tenements where they lived on Orchard Street. Historians have found their stories and re-created the environment by unearthing old wallpaper and filling spaces with things that people used in their day-to-day lives.
There are tours of different immigrants and their stories, so you can look for one that matches your family’s story, if applicable. The tours are interactive, meaning you can ask questions. Some of them use actors and some tour guides. The museum also offers walking tours of the Lower East Side where you can learn the history of the buildings.
Make sure to reserve tickets in advance (they usually sell out), and check the website for special discounts. Tickets are $30 per person. You can also purchase a membership for free tours throughout the year. The visitor’s center and museum shop are open 7 days a week, from 10 am-5 pm Monday-Thursday and 10 am-6 pm Friday-Sunday.
The visitor center is where all tours begin. It’s located at 103 Orchard Street on the corner of Orchard and Delancey St. There is a wheelchair-accessible entrance on the Delancey side of 103 Orchard St. The visitor’s center has bathrooms and lockers downstairs to store bags, a gift shop and an informational video.
8. New York Transit Museum
Contributed by Megan of Bobo & Chichi
One of the most absolutely unique things to do in NYC and one of the coolest museums is hidden away in the residential neighbourhood of Boerum Hill in Brooklyn. Located in a now-defunct subway stop is where the New York Transit Museum is housed.
The museum itself is devoted to the history and development of New York metropolitan public transportation. Through exhibits, photos, and even an interactive kids area where they can play as a bus driver inside a mini, colorful version of New York City.
But the best part of this unique attraction is actually located on the former subway platform. This is where there are several vintage subway cars including cars dating back to 1907 that visitors can walk in, sit in, and pretend to be a passenger. These are the actual vintage trains from the different eras of transportation in New York City. Don’t forget to take notice of all the vintage ads on display inside the trains too which reflect the period the train car was from.
There are 20 trains on display that you can go inside. This is really the part that makes this museum worth spending a few hours at, especially for those who love nostalgia and history.
You’ll want to secure your tickets in advance and note that the museum is only open until 4 PM, so be sure to plan your day accordingly around visiting.
9. Spyscape
Contributed by Kelly of Girl with the Passport
Looking for one of the most unique things to do in NYC? If so then run, don’t walk, to this fun and super interactive museum that is for anyone who typically hates museums.
Because while you will learn all about the history of code-breaking and espionage by exploring several amazing exhibits, the real highlight of a trip to Spyscape is the chance to be a spy. See, this is one of the coolest museums in NYC that is fully interactive and that shows you exactly what it’s like to be a real spy.
So, you’ll do a bit of code-breaking, conduct surveillance, dodge a laser or two, and try to spot liars while conducting missions during your visit. You’ll also love that all of these experiences are authentic and have been specially designed by no less than M16 itself.
Then, at the end of your visit, you’ll be given a personal profile that will help you determine exactly what spy role suits your personality and personal talents. Options include fun jobs like cryptologist, spymaster, hacker, and more.
Just be sure to set aside a few hours for your visit since this fun museum does take a while to get through. And while tickets are pricey at $39.00 per adult, it’s worth it to enjoy this one-of-a-kind experience.
10. The Morgan Library And Museum
Contributed by Sam Opp from Find Love and Travel
Potentially the most beautiful library I have ever come across in NYC is The Morgan Library and Museum which is a total hidden gem in the attraction-filled city of New York.
This NYC bucket list attraction was built in the Victorian era, this library is majestic in appearance and considered a masterpiece in design.
The library is home to rare artefacts including music manuscripts and early children’s books. The museum also hosts various expeditions throughout the year that are usually based around famous artists.
During your visit, you can browse the artefacts and the picturesque library. Then, retire to the café to have a casual bite to eat in the glass-enclosed Central court, Morgan café. This dining room creates a European, alfresco dining experience that is tranquil and a peaceful escape away from a busy city.
The best time to visit is early in the morning, to avoid the crowds since it is on the smaller side.
Tickets vary in price but are $22 for adult admission. On Friday evenings (5 pm – 7 pm) they allow visitors in for free, but you must reserve your tickets on their official website first.
The address is 225 Madison Ave, New York, NY 10016, and is easily accessible from the subway and by bus. The library is open from 10:30 am to 5 pm except for Friday when they close at 7 pm.
11. The Met Cloisters
Contributed by Kasia Kalemba from Perfect Day Somewhere
The Met Cloisters is a museum in Fort Tryon Park in Upper Manhattan, New York City and is part of the Metropolitan Museum of Art. It’s unique because it offers visitors a chance to experience the peaceful serenity of medieval Europe in the heart of one of the busiest cities in the world.
The museum is designed to resemble a medieval European monastery, with its architecture and landscaping both inspired by the medieval period. The museum’s collection of art and artefacts, including illuminated manuscripts, sculptures, metalwork, and textiles, provides a comprehensive overview of medieval life and culture.
The Met Cloisters is located at 99 Margaret Corbin Drive, Fort Tryon Park, New York, NY 10040. It is open seven days a week, from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm. Admission costs $25 for adults, $17 for seniors, and $12 for students or free for MET members.
A visit to the Met Cloisters is best during the spring and fall when the weather is mild and the gardens are in full bloom. The museum is also less crowded during the week, so visitors can enjoy a more peaceful and immersive experience.
Personally, I loved visiting the Met Cloisters because of its peaceful atmosphere and the opportunity to step back in time and immerse myself in the medieval world. The museum’s collection is fascinating, and the architecture and landscaping are truly stunning. I highly recommend a visit to anyone interested in the art and culture of the medieval period.
Unique Food & Drink In NYC
Tired of pizza and New York steaks? Here are some unusual or unique food & drink places in NYC.
12. Red Rooster, Harlem
Contributed by me, Martha from MayCauseWanderlust.com
When it comes to food, I think the most top-of-mind New York dishes are hot deli sandwiches, bagels and a good old slice of New York pizza. But if you like soul food or American comfort food, you should check out Red Rooster in Harlem. The menu includes lots of favourites like cornbread, shrimp & grits, crab cakes and chicken & waffles.
And on Sundays, you’ll also find amazing live music! The Sunday Gospel Brunch involves a full-on gospel choir performance. I was absolutely blown away by the performance when I visited – I’d never heard anything like it. It is truly a unique thing to do in NYC.
It’s a really special experience, you should try to do this even if you’re only in NYC for a few days (this is why I included this as a recommendation in my 4-day New York itinerary). It’s best to book well in advance to secure a spot and avoid disappointment.
13. Clinton Hall
Contributed by Kelly of Travel New York Now
If you’re a foodie of even the smallest measure then one of the most unique things to do in NYC for you is to visit Clinton Hall. Because this popular beer hall and food joint currently has locations all over the city and is known for serving its amazing doughnut grilled cheese.
Presented to you dangling from a hook and with mozzarella cheese dripping into a bowl of tomato soup below, this dish shouldn’t work but absolutely does.
In fact, you’ll forget you’re eating a doughnut at all since the confectionary delight has been cut in half and pan-fried so that the sugary exterior is on the inside. Seriously, it tastes amazing and you’ll have a hard time not devouring the entire thing while visiting one of the many places you must eat in NYC.
However, in addition to being insanely tasty, this dish is super Instagrammable and retails for just $17.00.
So, be sure to swing by Clinton Hall with a few of your friends and grab a pint of craft beer. Because while this unique grilled cheese is delicious, their Financial District has tons of outdoor seating and fun giant boards game that you and your friends can play while waiting for your food, including Jenga, Connect Four, and more.
14. Momofuku Noodle Bar
Contributed by Denise from Chef Denise
Food historians trace the ramen restaurant craze in America to mega-chef David Chang’s Momofuku Noodle Bar. Inspired by the Japanese food he ate while living in Tokyo, Chang opened the first restaurant of his empire in 2004. His vision was to elevate ramen from what most of us thought of as cheap dorm room food. He succeeded, and any ramen lover or foodie visiting NYC should enjoy a meal at the original location in the East Village.
The small food menu consists of five sections: daily specials, buns, smalls, noodles, and desserts. Indeed, the ramen bowls are the stars of the ever-changing menu and should not be missed. A large steaming bowl of brothy barley noodles served with a variety of meats, vegetables, and unique flavors. The smoked pork ramen with egg is definitely a highlight.
The fluffy, taco-shaped buns are quite delicious too and make a great starter to share. They may be filled with seared shrimp, pork belly, and there is usually a vegetarian option like roasted shiitake mushroom. The sauces on the buns really make them stand out. Not surprising, since Momofuku produces a whole line of Asian sauces too. Sip sake, a local craft beer, or try a Korean soju.
Momofuku Noodle Bar opens every day at noon. They close at 4 pm for an hour and reopen at 5 pm. Sunday-Thursday they close at 10 pm and Friday and Saturday 11 pm. Reservations are recommended, but walk-ins are accepted.
15. Ukrainian Food In Little Ukraine
Contributed by Amanda from Hey! East Coast USA
While most people visit the bohemian Greenwich Village in Manhattan, an alternative, less touristy neighborhood to consider is the nearby Ukrainian Village, historically known as Little Ukraine.
There are approximately 150,000 Ukrainians living in NYC, some of which call the boundary of 6th and 7th Street and 2nd Avenue in the East Village home. You’ll find businesses owned by Ukrainian families here, which is great if you like pierogi!
The most popular Ukrainian restaurant is Veselka which is located at 144 2nd Ave. It was opened in 1954 by Wlodymyr Darmochwal and his wife, Olha Darmochwal who were post-WWII refugees. Today, it is still owned and run by family members. Veselka means rainbow in Ukrainian.
The restaurant has indoor and sheltered tables on the street if you prefer to dine al fresco. Indoors there is Ukrainian decor such as flags, images of the president, and quotes in Ukrainian writing.
The menu caters for breakfast through to dinner and consists of borscht soup, handmade fried or boiled pierogi dumplings, latke, and goulash – perfect comfort food for rainy days in NYC. If visiting in winter, Veselka is one of the rare places you’ll find mulled wine! Delicious.
Nearby is Union Square, the famous Strand bookstore, and the Russian & Turkish Baths.
16. Bemelmans Bar
Contributed by me, Martha from MayCauseWanderlust.com
Bemelmans Bar is not unknown, as such. But it remains pretty under the radar for many people due to how exclusive and expensive it is.
And it really is pricey: cocktails are in the $20s and $30s, and cover charges apply after 5:30 pm, and get higher after 9 pm when a jazz trio plays.
However, I recommend Bemelmans Bar because it is such a special and unique place – one that is quintessentially New York. It feels like a time capsule – like you’re transported back to 1940s New York: it is lit with low table lamps and the room is lined by traditional leather banquettes; cocktails are served by immaculately-dressed waiters in suits; a pianist plays live jazz music. I think coming here with a date is one of the most romantic things to do in NYC.
But if you want to experience this old-world NYC gem without going bankrupt, go really early to avoid or minimise the cover charge, and have just one drink – and make it last!
Free & Unique Things To Do In NYC
If you want unusual NYC experiences AND you’re on a budget, here are some free unique things to do in NYC.
17. Little Island Park
Contributed by Sam from My Flying Leap
If you’re looking for some green space in the heart of the concrete jungle of New York City, there’s a newer unique small park nestled in the Lower West Side of NYC called Little Island Park. This special park opened in 2021, and it’s worth adding to your must-see list.
Little Island Park isn’t little, nor is it technically an island. It’s two and a half acres of land supported by concrete pilings in the Hudson River. There are 132 tulip-shaped structures standing on these concrete pilings at the edge of the river at Pier 55, providing the foundation for this park.
When you first start up the walkway to the park, you’ll have no doubt this will be a special place. Walk through the tulip structures into a new world, nothing like the city you’ve left behind.
There’s a winding path that meanders through the different areas of the park. On one end, there’s a large picnic area with benches and tables. There’s also a large outdoor amphitheater overlooking the water, where they hold events and activities.
On the other end is a large hill that you can wander up, enjoying the different grasses, trees, plants, and flowers. Wander around to enjoy the different views of the park and of the city in the distance, peeking over the trees.
Little Island Park is open daily from 6 a.m. to 9 p.m. It’s free to enter, so you can enjoy your day there and stay as long as you’d like. It’s a welcome respite from the city, and I love to visit every time I go!
18. Shakespeare In The Park
Contributed by Anwar from Beyond My Door
Held annually in the summer, Shakespeare in the Park is one of the premier theater activities in New York City. It’s also free!
The theater hosts two different productions of Shakespeare each summer ranging from the traditional to more modern takes on the plays. The unique thing here is that often they incorporate various different modern themes.
While many other cities also have Shakespeare productions and some even call them Shakespeare in the park, none are at the same production level as the New York production. You’ll often get world-class directors, set designers, and even famous actors within the plays. The production level is high and, shockingly, the tickets are free.
There are actually several ways to get tickets for Shakespeare in the park. The most common way is to line up early in the morning near the Delacorte theater on the west side of central park. Each person can get up to two tickets so if you have a group you’ll need several folks lining up. There’s also the option of lining up later in the day for standby, and while you can still get two tickets, there’s no guarantee they will be next to one another. There are also options for lotteries online and at the public theater downtown, as well as distributions in the outer boroughs. Lastly for those who don’t want to wait or risk not getting tickets, there is a donation option. While the prices for donations are pricey, they help keep Shakespeare in the park free.
When the sun sets and the play starts and you can watch Shakespeare from your seats in an open theater under the stars – there’s hardly a more magical experience in New York City.
19. Columbus Park
Contributed by me, Martha from MayCauseWanderlust.com
Some of my favourite memories in New York are finding quiet corners where there’s not much going on; such as sitting in small parks where you can watch the city’s inhabitants get on and do their thing.
One such park is Columbus Park. It’s very small and unassuming – certainly nothing spectacular there. But it really feels like a real contrast to the busy streets of Lower Manhattan that surround – Chinatown to the north and the civic Centre to the south.
It is a peaceful place and feels like the heart of the community. Locals gather here to meet and talk, or to play Mahjong or Xiangqi (Chinese chess). It’s a great place to soak up a neighbourhood vibe, away from the hustle and bustle of Manhattan.
In fact, I suggest it as a stop during my self-guided walking tour of Lower Manhattan – as it’s such a good place to take a seat and chill for a bit.
20. Seek Out Movie Locations
Contributed by me, Martha from MayCauseWanderlust.com
Another free thing to do in New York that is a little different is hunting out the locations and settings for one or more of the many movies set in NYC.
New York is one of the most filmed cities in the world, and IMDb lists around 395,000 movies set in New York.
Of course, there are lots of sci-fi or disaster movies where NYC landmarks get destroyed, but there are plenty of real-world films with locations you can visit. For example, there are classic Hollywood movies like The Seven Year Itch and The Way We Were, with that famous scene by the Pulitzer Fountain.
There are some 1980s favourites with iconic filming locations all over the city, like Ghostbusters and When Harry Met Sally. And many 1990s movies used grand apartment buildings in the Upper West Side as their location. And it’s not all old movies, of course: some great recent movies like Birdman and 21 Bridges were also set in New York.
If you want some cinematic inspiration, check out my list of 50 movies set in New York, including tips on where they were filmed.
Unique NYC Stores
To round out this list of unique things to do in NYC, there are some unusual stores you might want to visit.
21. NYC’s First Vegan Boutique
Contributed by Rebecca from Veggies Abroad
NYC is well known for its endless shopping, including independent boutiques, major chains, luxury brands, and the city’s first vegan boutique, Moo Shoes. For over 20 years, long before veganism was mainstream, the sister duo behind this shop started stocking its shelves with various cruelty-free kicks. Over the years, the shop expanded its line-up to include handbags along with men’s and women’s fashions.
In addition to ensuring that no animal products are used in their fashions, everything is created sustainably and with fair labor practices. You’ll find gorgeous fashions made from a unique mix of luxury materials like apple, pineapple, and cactus leather. The shop has its own one-of-a-kind line of shoes but also stocks vegan-friendly options from brands like Birkenstock, VEJA, Doc Martens, and many more. While shopping, you might also get lucky and meet one of the store’s rescued kitties who act as official greeters.
To round out your cruelty-free shopping excursion, make sure you check out one of NYC’s best vegan restaurants — there are well over 100 vegan restaurants! No matter what you’re in the mood for, you’ll find it in NYC.
22. Harry Potter Store
Contributed by Lisa from Planning Away
One of the most unique and fun things to do in New York is to visit the Harry Potter Store. If you are a Harry Potter fan this is an absolute must! Not only can you shop for unique Harry Potter souvenirs but you can immerse yourself in an entire wizarding experience.
One of the things that make the Harry Potter Store so special is that you can choose between two different virtual reality experiences: Harry Potter Wizards take Flight and Harry Potter Castle of Chaos. This experience does require advance reservations with the purchase of a ticket.
If you love butterbeer you are in luck! There is a cafe with all sorts of Harry Potter-themed baked goods, butterbeer ice cream, and of course the traditional butterbeer in a souvenir cup. There is also another area of the store that resembles Honeydukes. There are lots of wizarding candy and treats to choose from.
The detail within the store is amazing! As you step into the elevator you will enter a floo powder passageway to another area! You can also have a full interactive wand experience. There are also lots of Harry Potter memorabilia from the movies.
Harry Potter in New York City is a must!
To Conclude
I hope this list has given you some ideas of unique things to do in NYC. I know I picked up some ideas from my fellow travellers for my next trips to New York!
And if you still need some ideas, have you thought about a self-guided walking tour of Manhattan?
Great list here Martha. Growing up 40 minutes away in NJ, I’ve been to NYC hundreds of times. Go off of the beaten path – well into the outer boroughs – to experience worlds upon worlds of things to do. The Cloisters is gorgeous; views of the NJ Palisades are fabulous. I also suggest walking from Inwood, Manhattan over the bridge into Riverdale, Bronx to see the most suburban area of NYC few know exists. This area is a 20 minute walk from the Cloisters.
Ryan
I am definitely guilty of gravitating to Manhattan when I go to NYC! Thanks v much for the tips, though – I always love a good view 🙂
Yeah, me too, still 😉 Manhattan is so easy, convenient and eye-popping that it works best for most travelers. The outer boroughs are so cool too with 100’s and 100’s of remarkable places to experience. The Chinatown in Queens dwarves the Manhattan version. It is like being in mainland China.