New York City, a city that needs no introduction, is a dream destination for many. Its iconic landmarks and bustling streets are instantly recognizable. For first-time visitors, experiencing the quintessential tourist attractions like the Statue of Liberty, Times Square, the Empire State Building, and a stroll through Chinatown are must-dos.
However, NYC is a city of endless layers, offering something new to discover with each visit. If you’re a repeat visitor or someone seeking a deeper connection with the city beyond the usual tourist trails, you’re in for a treat.
Having explored NYC multiple times, I’ve made it my mission to uncover the hidden gems and local favorites that offer a more authentic and unique perspective of the city. While the bucket-list attractions are incredible, venturing off the beaten path reveals a whole new side of New York City.
If you’re wondering What To Do In Nyc when you feel like you’ve “seen it all,” prepare to be surprised. This guide will take you beyond the typical tourist hotspots and introduce you to unforgettable experiences that will make your trip truly special.
Ditch Midtown: Explore Vibrant Neighborhoods
Midtown Manhattan is undeniably the heart of the tourist scene, buzzing with energy and iconic landmarks. But if you’re looking for a different vibe and a more local experience, consider venturing into some of NYC’s diverse and dynamic neighborhoods.
During my recent trip, I chose to stay in East Harlem, near the Upper East Side. Harlem is experiencing a vibrant resurgence, becoming increasingly lively and culturally rich. Beyond its growing appeal, accommodation in Harlem is often more budget-friendly compared to the pricier areas of Midtown. Staying here offered a fascinating glimpse into the city’s ever-evolving landscape. A simple walk of a hundred blocks revealed a mesmerizing transformation in architecture, atmosphere, and even the level of luxury, block by block.
For a taste of authentic NYC life and unique things to do in NYC, explore these alternative neighborhoods:
- Astoria (Queens): Known for its Greek heritage, diverse culinary scene, and vibrant arts community.
- Downtown Brooklyn (Brooklyn): A rapidly developing area with trendy restaurants, parks, and cultural attractions.
- Greenwich Village (Manhattan): Historic and charming, famous for its bohemian past, Washington Square Park, and independent shops.
- Melrose (Bronx): A culturally rich neighborhood in the South Bronx experiencing revitalization, with street art, community gardens, and emerging businesses.
- Chelsea (Manhattan): Known for its art galleries, the High Line, and upscale boutiques.
- Bowery (Manhattan): A historic district with a gritty past, now home to trendy hotels, restaurants, and the New Museum.
Accommodation Tip: Skip the often-overpriced Midtown hotels and consider booking an Airbnb or VRBO in one of these neighborhoods. You’ll often find more affordable and unique accommodations, immersing yourself in the authentic NYC neighborhood feel.
Beyond Broadway: Unconventional Theater Experiences
Broadway shows are a major draw for visitors to NYC, and for good reason. The energy and talent are unparalleled. However, ticket prices can be steep, and popular shows often sell out quickly. If you’re looking for alternative theater experiences and unique things to do in NYC that are just as captivating, consider these options:
Broadway Roulette: For theater enthusiasts who are open to surprises, Broadway Roulette is a fantastic option. For a set price, you can get tickets to a Broadway show, but the show itself is a mystery until the day of the performance! You can exclude up to five shows you definitely don’t want to see, adding an element of fun and spontaneity to your evening. During my trip, I used Broadway Roulette and was thrilled to see the Tony Award-winning musical “Oklahoma!”
Off-Broadway Shows: NYC’s theater scene extends far beyond Broadway. Off-Broadway and Off-Off-Broadway theaters offer a diverse range of productions, often more experimental and affordable than their Broadway counterparts. I had a blast seeing “The Office: The Unauthorized Musical Parody” Off-Broadway. These smaller venues are often where future Broadway hits are born, giving you a chance to discover rising stars and innovative productions.
TV Show Tapings: NYC is a hub for late-night television. Many popular shows like “The Late Show with Stephen Colbert” offer free tickets to tapings. Planning ahead is key – check websites like 1iota.com well in advance of your trip to reserve tickets. Attending a live taping is a unique and behind-the-scenes experience that’s completely free.
Catacombs Instead of Bus Tours: Delve into NYC History
Double-decker bus tours are a convenient way to see the highlights of NYC, but they often only scratch the surface of the city’s rich history. For a truly unique and immersive historical experience, descend into the catacombs beneath the original St. Patrick’s Cathedral.
I stumbled upon a Facebook ad for a candlelit catacombs tour at the Basilica of St. Patrick’s Old Cathedral (yes, there are two St. Patrick’s Cathedrals in NYC!). Intrigued by the unusual offering, I booked a tour with Tommy’s New York.
Tommy’s New York provides exclusive guided tours of the Basilica and its catacombs, located in the charming Nolita neighborhood. The tour begins in the outdoor cemetery surrounding the cathedral, where you’ll learn about the area’s history, the cathedral’s imposing brick wall, and stories of those buried there, some dating back over 200 years.
Inside the cathedral, you’ll discover that it was the largest in the United States upon completion in 1815 and the seat of the first Bishop of New York. Admire the stunning stained-glass windows and the original organ before heading below ground into the catacombs.
The catacombs are dimly lit and well-preserved, featuring a corridor lined with burial chambers for priests, bishops, and prominent New York families. You’ll hear fascinating stories about those interred there, including details about General Eckert’s elaborate crypt, which cost a staggering $83,000 in the early 1900s (equivalent to over $2 million today).
This catacombs tour is an exceptional and unique thing to do in NYC, offering a glimpse into the city’s hidden history that you won’t find anywhere else.
Global Flavors Over Touristy Eateries: A Culinary Adventure
New York City is a renowned melting pot of cultures, and its culinary scene reflects this diversity. Instead of waiting in lines at overhyped diners in touristy areas, embark on a culinary adventure and explore the incredible range of cuisines the city has to offer.
Unique Restaurants to Try:
- Bunna Cafe (Flushing, Queens): Experience delicious vegan Ethiopian cuisine in a vibrant setting.
- Russ & Daughters (Lower East Side, Manhattan): A legendary appetizing store famous for its smoked fish and Jewish specialties.
- The MasalaWala (Lower East Side, Manhattan): Enjoy innovative and flavorful Indian dishes in a cozy, hip atmosphere.
- Di An Di (Greenpoint, Brooklyn): Savor authentic and delicious Vietnamese food in a stylish space.
Health Food Havens: NYC also boasts a thriving health food scene. Explore these unique spots:
- Westerly Natural Market (Midtown West, Manhattan): A health food store with an impressive selection of natural products and floor-to-ceiling shelves.
- The Health Nuts (Upper East Side, Manhattan): Another well-stocked health food store with a wide variety of vitamins, supplements, and healthy snacks.
- Candle 79 (Upper East Side, Manhattan): Upscale vegan dining with a focus on organic and seasonal ingredients.
- The Botaniste (Lower East Side, Manhattan): Plant-based cafe offering beautiful and healthy dishes.
- Beyond Sushi (Various locations): Creative and flavorful vegan sushi rolls with unique ingredient combinations.
- Hu Kitchen (Various locations): Paleo-friendly and health-conscious restaurant chain with options for various dietary needs.
Coffee Culture: NYC is serious about coffee. Skip the chains and check out these local favorites:
- Think Coffee (Various locations): A specialty coffee roaster with multiple locations throughout Manhattan.
- Coffee Project NYC (East Village & Long Island City): Known for its innovative coffee drinks and barista training programs.
- The Bean (Various locations): A cozy coffee shop with a relaxed atmosphere and quality brews.
Brooklyn Bridge Walk Over High Line Crowds: Explore Brooklyn’s Charm
Walking the High Line is a popular activity, but it can get incredibly crowded. For a more expansive and iconic walk with breathtaking views, choose the Brooklyn Bridge. While it’s also a popular spot, arriving early in the morning allows you to experience the bridge with fewer crowds, making it perfect for photos and a more peaceful walk.
Beyond the walk itself, Brooklyn has transformed into a vibrant borough worth exploring. It offers a more intimate and neighborhood-focused atmosphere compared to bustling Manhattan. Dedicate at least half a day to wander through Brooklyn’s diverse neighborhoods, browse unique shops, and savor the borough’s cool culinary scene.
Immersive Theater Over Bar Hopping: An Unforgettable Night Out
Instead of the usual bar hopping or clubbing, consider a truly unique and unforgettable evening with immersive theater. “Sleep No More” at The McKittrick Hotel is an experience unlike any other. While tickets might seem pricey, consider that the cost is comparable to a night of drinks in NYC, and the experience is far more memorable.
“Sleep No More” is a film noir-inspired, interactive adaptation of Macbeth set within a five-story hotel. Audience members wear masks, are encouraged to explore independently, and there is no talking – even the actors are silent. The experience feels like stepping into a haunted house, where you can roam through intricately detailed rooms and sets, even interacting with props. By following a specific character, you become immersed in their storyline, witnessing scenes unfold throughout the hotel. With multiple characters and storylines interwoven, “Sleep No More” is an experience you could repeat multiple times and still discover something new.
Perimeter Walk of Central Park: Embrace Its Vastness
Central Park is a world-renowned urban oasis and a must-visit in NYC. While pedicab tours offer a quick overview, they only scratch the surface of this vast park. To truly appreciate Central Park’s scale and beauty, dedicate a few hours to walking its perimeter.
Exploring the perimeter allows you to grasp the park’s immense size and discover different landscapes and viewpoints. Of course, don’t hesitate to venture inwards and explore the many paths, gardens, and attractions within Central Park itself.
Bonus: Unique Fitness Classes
NYC is a fitness mecca, offering a plethora of unique and boutique fitness classes. Skip your regular gym routine and try something new and exciting during your visit.
Recommended Fitness Experiences:
- Barry’s Bootcamp (Various locations): A high-intensity interval training workout combining treadmill intervals and strength training.
- Mile High Run Club (NoHo & FiDi): Running-focused classes that incorporate speed work, hills, and drills to elevate your running routine.
Beyond the Tourist Trail
New York City is a city of endless possibilities. While the famous landmarks are essential for first-timers, exploring beyond the typical tourist attractions opens up a world of unique experiences and local discoveries. From vibrant neighborhoods to hidden historical gems, diverse culinary adventures, and unconventional entertainment, there’s always something new to uncover in NYC, no matter how many times you visit. So, next time you’re in the Big Apple, venture off the beaten path and create unforgettable memories.
