New York City is a global icon, famous for its towering skyscrapers, world-class museums, and bustling energy. Millions flock to see the Statue of Liberty, explore Central Park, and catch a Broadway show. But for those who seek a deeper connection with the city, who yearn to peel back the layers beyond the postcard-perfect sights, lies a world of extraordinary experiences. As a passionate explorer of culture, history, and unique destinations, I invite you to discover the truly unusual things to do in new york that offer a glimpse into the city’s diverse soul and rich tapestry. Venture off the well-trodden path and find hidden gems, quirky activities, and moments that reveal the authentic spirit of the Big Apple.
Unique NYC Experiences Beyond the Ordinary
Forget the crowded observation decks. New York offers a range of activities that provide fresh perspectives and unforgettable memories. These unique experiences blend adventure, local flavor, and often, a touch of unexpected charm.
One incredibly simple, low-cost yet breathtaking experience is taking the Roosevelt Island Tramway. This isn’t just transportation; it’s a journey where you ascend between the buildings, feeling like you’re flying through the urban canyon. Having ridden cable cars globally, I can attest that few offer this unique perspective of soaring alongside skyscrapers. It’s particularly magical after dark, as the city lights twinkle below and around you. Departing from Manhattan at 2nd Avenue and 60th Street, it accepts Metrocards, making it as convenient as a subway ride. Remember to avoid rush hour to give residents priority!
For a true escape that feels miles away from the city while being just a short ferry ride, head to Governors Island. This car-free oasis technically belongs to Manhattan but offers a serene contrast. It boasts some of the best free views of the NYC skyline and the Statue of Liberty. A truly unique activity here is renting a grill at Picnic Point for the day, allowing you to enjoy a relaxed cookout with an incredible backdrop. Beyond grilling, explore the island’s historic sites, art installations, and beautiful gardens, or simply wander and enjoy the tranquility. It’s a perfect way to find peace within the bustling city.
If you’re an adrenaline junkie or simply crave a truly unparalleled view, consider an open-door helicopter ride. You’ve likely seen the dramatic photos, legs dangling over the city skyline. Having tried this with a company like FlyNYON, I can confirm it’s an unforgettable experience offering panoramic views of landmarks like the Brooklyn Bridge, Central Park, and the Statue of Liberty. Strapped in with a harness, you get an unobstructed perspective as you soar above and along the rivers, taking in iconic neighborhoods. While brief, the feeling of flying through the air with no windows between you and the city is one of the most unusual things to do in new york and creates lasting memories.
If you’re intrigued by stepping off the usual tourist trail, explore more unique new york experiences.
For a dive into classic Americana mixed with the wonderfully bizarre, head to Coney Island for Sideshows by the Seashore. Located near the famous boardwalk and amusement rides, this is hailed as the last permanently housed traditional ten-in-one sideshow in the country. Expect eccentric performances from fire breathers, acrobats, and more, carrying on a fascinating historical tradition of carnival entertainment. It runs continuously, so you can pop in and out, soaking up the unique, quirky atmosphere. It’s a perfect slice of historical New York eccentricity.
Step back in time and connect with the city’s agricultural roots at the Queens County Farm Museum. This isn’t just a park; it’s one of NYC’s last working farms and the longest continuously farmed site in New York State, dating back to the 17th century. Visiting provides a stark contrast to the surrounding urban environment, offering a glimpse into the region’s farming heritage. Explore the historic farmhouse (circa 1772), see livestock like goats and sheep, and even purchase fresh produce grown on site. It’s a peaceful, educational, and genuinely unusual escape within the five boroughs.
For an evening of opulent, playful, and sometimes daring entertainment, look no further than Company XIV in Brooklyn. This troupe blends burlesque, cabaret, and ballet into unique variety shows. Known for extravagant costumes, aerial performances, and a seductive atmosphere, it’s a far cry from traditional theater. Guests are encouraged to relax, enjoy cocktails, and immerse themselves in the glittering, boundary-pushing spectacle. It’s definitely one of the more risqué and unusual things to do in new york for a night out.
Offbeat Museums for Curious Minds
While the Met and the Natural History Museum are essential NYC experiences, the city is also home to smaller, more specialized museums that offer unique insights and fascinating collections.
Nestled on Museum Mile alongside giants like The Met and The Guggenheim, the Neue Galerie focuses on early 20th-century German and Austrian art and design. If you appreciate art but prefer a more intimate setting, this is an excellent choice. It famously houses Gustav Klimt’s iconic “Woman in Gold” portrait of Adele Bloch-Bauer I. The experience is enhanced by the on-site Café Sabarsky, a Viennese-style cafe offering delicious pastries and a moment to reflect in an elegant setting. It’s a specific cultural niche often overlooked, making it one of the more unusual things to do in new york for art lovers.
Step into a world of vibrant hues and playful installations at the Color Factory. This interactive museum is dedicated to the experience of color through various sensory activities. From colorful treats to rooms filled with confetti or giant ball pits, it’s designed to inspire joy and curiosity in visitors of all ages. It’s a stark contrast to traditional, quiet museums, offering a fun, photo-friendly environment. It’s perfect for families, friends, or anyone looking for a dose of lighthearted fun on a rainy day in NYC. Tickets should be booked online in advance for timed entry.
Delve into the rich history of immigration on the Lower East Side at the Tenement Museum. Located in a real tenement building where thousands of immigrants lived, this museum tells their personal stories through guided tours of meticulously recreated apartments. It provides a powerful, intimate look at the challenges and triumphs of immigrant life in NYC. By reserving tickets in advance, you can choose a tour focusing on different families and eras, offering a truly unique and educational experience that connects you deeply with the city’s past and the human stories behind its growth.
Hidden within a defunct subway station in Brooklyn’s Boerum Hill, the New York Transit Museum is a fascinating journey through the history of public transportation in the metropolitan area. What makes it truly unique is the lower level, where you can walk through and sit in a collection of vintage subway cars dating back to 1907. Exploring these old trains, complete with period advertisements, offers a tangible connection to the city’s past and the evolution of its vital transit system. It’s a nostalgic and informative visit, especially compelling for history buffs and transit enthusiasts.
For a thrilling and interactive experience that puts you in the shoes of a secret agent, visit Spyscape. This is far from a traditional museum; it’s an immersive attraction where you learn about espionage and code-breaking through engaging exhibits, and then participate in challenges designed by former intelligence experts. Test your skills in surveillance, deduction, and agility, and receive a personal spy profile at the end. It’s a high-tech, action-packed adventure that makes learning about the world of spies incredibly fun and is one of the most unusual things to do in new york for those seeking an active experience.
Discover a hidden architectural and literary gem at The Morgan Library and Museum. This stunning building, originally J.P. Morgan’s private library, is a masterpiece of design from the Victorian era. It houses a remarkable collection of rare books, manuscripts, and artifacts. Beyond the impressive main library hall, the museum hosts rotating exhibitions and offers a tranquil glass-enclosed courtyard cafe. Visiting early in the morning helps avoid crowds and allows you to fully appreciate the peaceful elegance of this often-overlooked cultural site in the heart of the city.
Step back in time to medieval Europe without leaving Manhattan at The Met Cloisters. Located in Fort Tryon Park in Upper Manhattan, this branch of the Metropolitan Museum of Art is built around several medieval cloister architectural elements brought from Europe. It houses an impressive collection of medieval art and artifacts within a setting designed to evoke a European monastery. Visiting during spring or fall, when the gardens are in bloom, enhances the sense of peaceful serenity. It’s a quiet, contemplative escape from the city’s hustle and bustle, offering a unique historical and architectural experience.
Unusual Food & Drink Spots
New York’s culinary scene is legendary, but beyond the famous pizza and bagels, there are unique eateries that offer distinct flavors and experiences, reflecting the city’s diverse cultural influences. Exploring these spots is one of the most rewarding unusual things to do in new york for foodies.
In the heart of Harlem, Red Rooster offers incredible soul food and American comfort food in a vibrant setting. Dishes like shrimp & grits, chicken & waffles, and cornbread are menu staples, served with flair. What elevates the experience, especially on Sundays, is the live music. The Sunday Gospel Brunch features a powerful gospel choir performance that is truly moving and unique. It’s a cultural and culinary event that offers a taste of Harlem’s rich heritage and is highly recommended, though booking in advance is essential.
For a culinary creation that defies expectations, you must try the doughnut grilled cheese at Clinton Hall. This popular beer hall chain serves up this bizarre yet delicious mashup: a grilled cheese sandwich made with a doughnut instead of bread. Served dangling from a hook, it’s an Instagram sensation, but the taste is surprisingly good, with the sweet and savory elements playing off each other perfectly. Coupled with a vast selection of craft beers and locations often featuring giant board games, it’s a fun, casual spot for an unusual bite.
Any serious foodie should pay homage to where the modern ramen craze in America arguably began: Momofuku Noodle Bar in the East Village. Chef David Chang’s original spot elevated ramen from simple comfort food to a celebrated dish. The menu features expertly crafted ramen bowls alongside delicious steamed buns and small plates. Trying their signature smoked pork ramen is a must. Visiting the original location offers a taste of culinary history and innovation that shaped dining trends across the country. Reservations are recommended but walk-ins are accepted.
Venture into the East Village’s Ukrainian Village, historically known as Little Ukraine, for authentic Ukrainian comfort food. Home to a significant Ukrainian population, this area offers a culinary journey different from typical NYC fare. The most famous spot is Veselka, a long-standing restaurant opened by post-WWII refugees, meaning “rainbow” in Ukrainian. Here you can savor dishes like borscht soup, handmade pierogi (fried or boiled), latkes, and goulash. It’s a delicious way to experience a specific cultural pocket and its hearty, flavorful cuisine.
For a taste of old-world New York glamour, visit Bemelmans Bar at The Carlyle hotel. While not exactly a secret, its exclusivity and price point keep it off the main tourist radar. This elegant bar, adorned with whimsical murals by Ludwig Bemelmans (creator of the Madeline children’s books), transports you to 1940s NYC. Enjoy expertly crafted cocktails served by impeccably dressed staff while a pianist or jazz trio plays live music. It’s a pricey indulgence but worth visiting early in the evening (before or during minimal cover charge) for a single drink to soak in the unique, romantic, and historical atmosphere.
Free & Unique Things To Do in NYC
Discovering unusual things to do in new york doesn’t have to break the bank. The city offers surprising free activities that reveal its character and offer enjoyable experiences away from the usual tourist traps.
For street art aficionados and urban explorers, a wander down Freeman Alley in the Lower East Side is a must. This short, partially-covered alleyway is a dynamic canvas for graffiti, murals, and posters, constantly evolving with new artwork. The vibrant, dense covering of street art creates a unique, immersive visual experience. Visiting early in the morning allows for a quiet viewing of this ever-changing open-air gallery. It’s located near the Bowery Mural, another significant street art spot worth seeing.
A relatively new addition to the city’s public spaces is Little Island Park, a striking park built on concrete pilings in the Hudson River near Pier 55. Supported by 132 distinct “tulip” structures, it appears to float on the water. This two-and-a-half-acre park offers winding paths through diverse plantings, open lawns, an amphitheater, and beautiful views of the waterfront and city skyline. It’s a modern architectural marvel and a tranquil, free oasis providing a unique perspective of the city from the water’s edge.
Experience world-class theater for free during the summer with Shakespeare In The Park. Held annually at the Delacorte Theater in Central Park, this program stages professional productions of Shakespeare’s plays, often featuring well-known actors and directors. While getting tickets requires effort – typically involving lining up early in the morning or entering a lottery – the reward is watching a high-quality theatrical performance under the stars in a beautiful outdoor setting. It’s a cherished NYC tradition and a remarkable free cultural experience.
Embark on a self-guided tour of movie locations around the city. New York has been the backdrop for countless films, from classic Hollywood to modern blockbusters. Walking the streets and recognizing spots from your favorite movies offers a fun, free, and interactive way to explore different neighborhoods. Whether it’s the Pulitzer Fountain from The Way We Were, Katz’s Diner from When Harry Met Sally, or iconic buildings featured in numerous films, hunting down these cinematic landmarks provides a unique sightseeing experience and connects you to the city’s film history.
Hidden Gem Stores & Quaint Shops
Beyond the department stores and chain retailers, New York is home to unique shops that preserve history, celebrate niche interests, or offer distinct local flavor. Visiting them is a delightful way to discover more unusual things to do in new york while picking up a unique souvenir.
While Katz’s Deli is famous, just down Houston Street is another Lower East Side institution: Yonah Schimmel Knish Bakery. Operating since 1890 and in its current location since 1910, this bakery specializes in knishes, a traditional Jewish baked dough filled with potatoes and other ingredients. Stepping into the bakery feels like entering a time capsule, with a storefront that appears unchanged for decades. It’s a piece of living history and a chance to try a classic New York Jewish comfort food that’s less mainstream than pastrami or bagels.
In the East Village, where hints of its counterculture past still linger, you might spot Block Drug Store with its striking neon-lit facade. Operating as an independent pharmacy since 1885 (with the iconic signs dating from 1945), it stands out as a relic from a bygone era amidst a rapidly changing neighborhood. While it is still a functioning drugstore, its preserved retro exterior makes it a visual landmark and a reminder of the area’s history. Supporting this local business offers a small connection to the authentic, less-polished side of the East Village.
Way up in the refined Carnegie Hill neighborhood of the Upper East Side, The Corner Bookstore is a charming independent bookshop occupying a corner brownstone. Since 1978, it has offered a carefully curated selection of books and personalized service, evoking the feel of a classic neighborhood bookstore. Browsing its shelves provides a quiet, intellectual respite. Its inviting atmosphere might remind you of bookstores depicted in classic NYC films. Stopping by before a stroll in nearby Central Park is a lovely, low-key activity.
For conscious shoppers and animal lovers, Moo Shoes in NYC is a pioneering destination. As the city’s first vegan boutique, opened over 20 years ago before veganism hit the mainstream, it specializes in cruelty-free footwear, handbags, and fashion. They prioritize sustainability and fair labor practices, offering items made from innovative materials like apple or pineapple leather, alongside vegan-friendly options from popular brands. It’s a niche shopping experience reflecting evolving ethics and style, and you might even be greeted by one of the store’s rescued cats.
Enter a world of magic and wonder at the Harry Potter Store in New York. This isn’t just a retail space; it’s an immersive experience for fans of the Wizarding World. Beyond shopping for exclusive merchandise, visitors can enjoy two distinct virtual reality experiences (“Harry Potter Wizards Take Flight” and “Harry Potter Castle of Chaos”), requiring advance tickets. The store features themed areas like a Honeydukes-inspired candy shop and offers unique treats like Butterbeer. The attention to detail in the decor, including interactive elements like the Floo Powder passageway elevator, makes it a fantastical destination. It’s arguably one of the most entertaining and unusual things to do in new york for fans of the franchise.
Serene Parks & Gardens Off the Tourist Radar
While Central Park is famous, New York boasts numerous smaller parks and gardens that offer moments of peace, unique views, or local character, providing tranquil spots for contemplation or observation away from the crowds. Finding these green havens counts among the most relaxing unusual things to do in new york.
In the heart of Chinatown and the Civic Center lies Columbus Park, a small but vibrant community hub. It’s not architecturally grand, but its significance lies in its role as a gathering place for locals. Here, you’ll often see residents playing Mahjong or Xiangqi (Chinese chess), chatting, and simply enjoying the outdoors. It offers a genuine glimpse into neighborhood life and provides a peaceful bench to sit and observe the rhythm of the community, a stark contrast to the surrounding busy streets of Lower Manhattan.
Verdi Square, located at the junction of Broadway and Amsterdam Avenue on the Upper West Side, is a pleasant spot to rest if you’re in the area, perhaps after visiting the American Museum of Natural History. This small square features benches, flower beds, a statue of composer Giuseppe Verdi, and notably, a charming old subway entrance structure adorned with artwork. Grab a famously thick and gooey cookie from the original Levain Bakery nearby and enjoy it on a bench in the square. It’s a simple pleasure and a chance to admire the surrounding architecture, including the prestigious Ansonia building.
Tucked away in the charming West Village is the St. Luke In The Fields Garden, situated on the grounds of the Church of England church. This small garden offers a secluded and peaceful retreat. With benches nestled among flowering plants and trees, it’s a perfect spot for a moment of quiet reflection away from the village’s lively streets. Visiting during spring when the blossoms are out is particularly delightful. It’s a true hidden gem for finding solitude in the city.
If you happen to be in New York during cherry blossom season (typically March-April) and want to avoid the most crowded spots, seek out Sasaki Garden in Washington Square Village. This central garden within an apartment complex (but accessible to the public) features a beautiful grove of mature cherry trees. When in peak bloom, it offers a stunning display. With plenty of benches, it’s a tranquil alternative to more famous cherry blossom viewing locations, providing a peaceful place to sit and admire the ephemeral beauty.
Another less-crowded spot for cherry blossoms (or just a quiet stroll) is Sakura Park in Mornington Heights. Located near Columbia University, its name means “cherry blossom” in Japanese, commemorating a gift of trees from Japan in 1912. The park features a stone Japanese lantern donated by Tokyo and a pavilion used for performances. While perhaps a trek for some visitors, its location further uptown means it sees fewer tourists, offering a more serene experience among the blossoms.
For a unique perspective of the Midtown Manhattan skyline, cross the East River to Hunter’s Point South Park in Long Island City, Queens. This waterfront park offers spectacular, unobstructed views of iconic skyscrapers like the Empire State Building and the Chrysler Building. Stroll along the boardwalk, relax by the water, and simply take in the breathtaking scenery. It’s particularly magical at dusk as the city lights begin to twinkle against the changing sky. It’s a fantastic spot for photos and a peaceful escape with million-dollar views, proving that some of the best sights are just across the river.
Finally, while more well-known to Upper East Side residents, Carl Schurz Park remains relatively off the radar for most visitors. This attractive park offers flower beds, cherry trees, handsome promenades, and elevated walkways along the East River with views of Roosevelt Island. It’s a beautifully landscaped space popular with locals for jogging and dog walking. While Gracie Mansion, the Mayor’s residence, is located here, the real draw is the park’s pleasant atmosphere, seasonal beauty, and relaxing river views.
Looking for more ideas to make your trip memorable? Discover quirky things to do in new york that add extra charm to your visit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Are these unusual things to do in New York easy to get to?
A: Most of the unique locations mentioned are accessible via New York City’s extensive subway system or by ferry, though some in the outer boroughs might require a bit more planning. Always check specific directions and hours before heading out.
Q: When is the best time to explore these unique spots?
A: Many of these locations can be enjoyed year-round. Parks are particularly lovely in spring (for blossoms) and fall (for foliage). Indoor attractions like museums and stores are great any time. Visiting during weekday mornings often means fewer crowds.
Q: Do any of these activities require advance booking?
A: Yes, some experiences like the open-door helicopter ride, the Tenement Museum, the Harry Potter VR experiences, and the Red Rooster Gospel Brunch highly recommend or require booking in advance due to popularity or limited capacity. Always check their official websites.
Q: Are these unique experiences suitable for families?
A: Many are! Places like the Color Factory, New York Transit Museum, Queens County Farm, Little Island Park, and the Harry Potter Store are particularly great for families with children. Others might be more suited for adults or older teens, depending on the specific show or atmosphere.
For more unique ideas, see our guide to unique things to do in nyc 2022.
Conclusion
Exploring unusual things to do in new york allows you to move beyond the surface and connect with the city on a more intimate level. From soaring above skyscrapers and stepping back in time on a farm, to savoring unique culinary creations and finding peace in hidden gardens, these experiences reveal the multifaceted nature of NYC. By venturing into these lesser-known corners, you don’t just visit New York; you live its culture, history, and vibrant present. I hope this guide inspires you to create your own extraordinary journey and discover the many surprising facets of this incredible city.