New York City is a global icon, a concrete jungle brimming with famous landmarks like the Statue of Liberty, Times Square, and Central Park. Millions visit each year to tick off these must-sees. But for the seasoned traveler or those seeking an experience beyond the obvious tourist trails, the real magic of NYC lies in its hidden corners and unconventional offerings.
As your guide to the world’s diverse landscapes and cultures, I believe that to truly know a city, you must delve into its unique pulse – exploring not just the sights, but the stories, the flavors, and the local rhythms. This article is your passport to discovering some truly unique things to do in nyc that will enrich your understanding of this dynamic metropolis.
Unforgettable Unique Experiences in NYC
Step off the well-trodden path and into activities that offer a fresh perspective on the city that never sleeps. These are the moments that turn a trip into an adventure.
Glide Above the City: The Roosevelt Island Tramway
A simple and surprisingly low-cost way to gain a unique aerial perspective of Manhattan is by taking the Roosevelt Island Tramway. More than just transportation, this cable car ride feels like flying between the skyscrapers across the East River. Having experienced cable cars in various global settings, I can attest that soaring amidst tall urban buildings like this is truly distinctive to NYC.
The journey itself is brief, only a few minutes, but the views are captivating, especially after dark when the city lights twinkle below and around you. It offers a fantastic, less-crowded alternative view compared to popular observation decks. Catch it on the Manhattan side at 2nd Avenue and 60th Street. Metrocards are accepted, making it as affordable as a subway ride.
Escape to Governors Island: A Car-Free Oasis
Just a short ferry ride from Lower Manhattan or Brooklyn lies Governors Island, a tranquil retreat that feels miles away from the city’s hustle, despite being technically part of Manhattan. This car-free haven invites leisurely exploration by foot or bike, offering some of the most stunning and free skyline views in NYC.
One particularly appealing activity is renting a grill at Picnic Point for a relaxed day of cooking and enjoying the Manhattan skyline and Statue of Liberty vistas from an Adirondack chair. The island also hosts events like the Jazz Age Lawn Party, features a spa (QC NY Spa), glamping (Collective Retreats), and offers various art installations, gardens, and historic sites waiting to be discovered. It’s a place to simply wander and breathe.
Soar with a View: Open-Door Helicopter Ride
For an adrenaline rush coupled with unparalleled views, an open-door helicopter ride is among the most thrilling unique new york experiences. Forget the photos you’ve seen – the actual experience of flying over landmarks like the Statue of Liberty, Brooklyn Bridge, and Central Park with nothing between you and the city below is absolutely breathtaking.
Companies like FlyNYON offer these tours, providing a full safety briefing and harness. While closed-door options exist, the open-door perspective is truly immersive, offering panoramic views as you soar along the Hudson and East Rivers, glimpsing iconic neighborhoods from above. It’s a brief but intensely memorable way to see the city from an entirely different angle, showcasing the scale and density of NYC in a way ground-level views cannot. These can certainly be counted among the most cool experiences in nyc.
Step into the Extraordinary at Coney Island Sideshows
Coney Island itself is a destination packed with history and charm, but for a truly unique slice of classic Americana, head to Sideshows by the Seashore. This venue carries on the tradition of the classic ten-in-one circus show, featuring an array of eccentric and talented performers, from fire-breathers to acrobats.
Located conveniently near the beach and amusement park rides, it stands out as potentially the last permanently housed traditional sideshow of its kind in the United States. It’s a quirky, lively performance space where performers are deeply dedicated to their craft, offering continuous shows. Even outside the peak summer season, checking their schedule for special events can provide a reason to visit Coney Island for this distinctive cultural experience. It’s definitely one of the most quirky things to do in new york.
Experience Rural Life at Queens County Farm Museum
Discover a fascinating piece of NYC’s past and present agricultural heritage at the Queens County Farm Museum. This site is not just a museum; it’s one of the last working farms in New York City and boasts the title of the longest continuously farmed site in the state, with roots going back to the 17th century.
The original farmhouse, dating to around 1772, still stands, offering a glimpse into the farm’s long history, which includes a period where it was used as therapy for patients from the nearby Creedmoor Psychiatric Center. Today, the farm is a public park producing fresh produce, flowers, and herbs sold on-site, alongside raising livestock like goats and sheep. It’s a surprising rural escape within the city limits, providing insight into a lesser-known aspect of New York’s development.
Indulge in Spectacle at Company XIV Burlesque
For a night of flamboyant, adults-only entertainment, Brooklyn’s Company XIV offers a truly unique theatrical experience. Blending elements of burlesque, cabaret, and ballet, their shows are known for their decadent visual style, athleticism, and playful interaction with the audience.
Set in an unassuming art house, the moment you enter, you’re transported into a lavish, glittering world. Aerialists dangle, performers in extravagant costumes (think tutus with corsets) move through the aisles, creating an immersive and sometimes delightfully provocative atmosphere. It’s an evening that encourages you to relax, enjoy a drink, and revel in the sheer spectacle and talent on display. VIP seating even puts you front and center for the most intimate view.
Dive Deeper: Unique Museums in NYC
While the Met and MoMA are world-class, NYC is home to many smaller, more specialized museums that offer unique perspectives and experiences.
Art Deco Elegance: Neue Galerie
Located on Museum Mile, the Neue Galerie is a more intimate alternative to its larger neighbors, focusing specifically on early 20th-century German and Austrian art and design. For admirers of artists like Gustav Klimt and Egon Schiele, this museum is a must-visit.
Its collection, though small, is significant, notably housing Klimt’s iconic “Adele Bloch-Bauer I” (The Woman in Gold). The museum itself is housed in a beautiful mansion, adding to the elegant atmosphere. Completing the experience is Café Sabarsky, a Viennese-style cafe serving exquisite Austrian pastries and coffee, though be prepared for a potential queue – it’s nearly as popular as the art! It’s a refined way to spend a few hours away from the crowds of larger institutions.
Immerse Yourself in Color: The Color Factory
If you’re looking for a purely joyful and interactive experience, the Color Factory is a vibrant choice. This museum is dedicated to exploring color through various sensory installations, designed to delight and inspire play in visitors of all ages.
Moving through different rooms, you’ll encounter everything from colorful treats like macarons to drawing rooms, music rooms, and even a giant confetti room and a ball pit. It’s a space designed for interaction and fun, making it a great option for families or anyone wanting a lighthearted activity. It’s also highly “Instagrammable,” and tickets often include photo opportunities and small souvenirs. Timed-entry tickets are required, so plan ahead.
Echoes of Immigration: The Tenement Museum
Located in a real tenement building on Orchard Street, the Tenement Museum offers a deeply moving and personal look at the history of immigration in the United States through the stories of the families who lived there. Unlike traditional museums, the focus is on guided tours that take you through recreated apartments and businesses, bringing the past to life.
Historians meticulously research the lives of former residents, using their stories to illuminate the challenges and triumphs of immigrant life in the Lower East Side. Some tours even incorporate actors. This museum connects directly to NYC’s identity as a melting pot and the profound impact immigration has had on its culture, food, and social fabric. It’s an essential visit for understanding the human stories behind the city’s growth and is undoubtedly one of the most unique new york experiences you can have. Book tickets well in advance as tours are popular.
Ride Through History: New York Transit Museum
Housed in a decommissioned subway station in Brooklyn, the New York Transit Museum is a fascinating deep dive into the history and engineering of the city’s vast public transportation system. The museum features exhibits on the development of subways, buses, and bridges, alongside interactive displays.
The undisputed highlight, however, is the collection of vintage subway cars displayed on the lower level tracks. Visitors can walk through trains dating back to the early 20th century, experiencing the evolution of design and even spotting historical advertisements inside. It’s a unique opportunity to step back in time and appreciate the infrastructure that keeps the city moving. It’s a must for transit enthusiasts and history buffs alike.
Unlock Your Inner Spy at Spyscape
For a museum experience that’s all about engagement and minimal passive observation, Spyscape is a top choice. This interactive museum transforms visitors into temporary spies, exploring the world of espionage through authentic challenges designed with input from real intelligence experts, including former MI6 agents.
You’ll test your skills in code-breaking, surveillance, deception detection, and agility (dodging lasers!). Each exhibit is a mission, making the visit feel like a real-life spy thriller. At the end, based on your performance, you receive a personalized profile revealing your ideal spy role, from cryptologist to hacker. It’s a thoroughly entertaining and immersive experience that makes learning about espionage fun and memorable, appealing even to those who typically find museums tedious. It’s truly one of the cool experiences in nyc.
A Bibliophile’s Dream: The Morgan Library and Museum
Stepping into The Morgan Library and Museum is like entering a European palace of knowledge. Originally the private library of financier J.P. Morgan, the building itself is a masterpiece of design, offering a glimpse into the Gilded Age elegance.
The collection is extraordinary, featuring rare books, manuscripts (including medieval illuminated texts and famous composers’ original scores), and drawings. Beyond the stunning, multi-level library room, the museum hosts compelling rotating exhibitions. The tranquil glass-enclosed central court, which serves as the Morgan Café, provides a peaceful spot for reflection amidst the beauty. It’s a serene escape from the city’s energy, perfect for anyone who appreciates history, art, and the written word. Free entry on Friday evenings is a fantastic bonus, but requires advance booking.
Medieval Serenity: The Met Cloisters
Transport yourself to medieval Europe without leaving Manhattan by visiting The Met Cloisters. Located in Fort Tryon Park, this branch of the Metropolitan Museum of Art is housed in a collection of medieval European monastic buildings that were dismantled in Europe and reassembled brick by brick in New York City.
The architecture and peaceful gardens, including several cloisters, provide a stunning backdrop for the museum’s extensive collection of medieval art and artifacts, such as tapestries, sculptures, and illuminated manuscripts. Visiting in the spring or fall, when the gardens are at their best, enhances the sense of stepping back in time. It offers a unique blend of art, architecture, and natural beauty, providing a profound sense of peace and historical depth often unexpected within NYC.
Savor the City: Unique Food & Drink Experiences in NYC
NYC’s culinary scene is world-renowned, but beyond the iconic bagels and pizza, lies a universe of flavors deeply tied to the city’s diverse cultural tapestry. Discover culinary experiences that are as unique as the city itself.
Soulful Flavors and Gospel Sounds at Red Rooster Harlem
Harlem is a neighborhood steeped in cultural history, and Red Rooster, founded by Chef Marcus Samuelsson, is a vibrant hub for experiencing its modern soul. While known for delicious American comfort food like fried chicken, mac & cheese, and shrimp & grits, visiting for the Sunday Gospel Brunch elevates the experience entirely.
Enjoying a meal accompanied by a powerful live gospel choir is an incredibly uplifting and moving experience that connects you to the rich musical heritage of Harlem. It’s more than just food; it’s a full sensory and emotional immersion into the neighborhood’s spirit. Due to its popularity, booking this unique brunch well in advance is highly recommended.
The Infamous Doughnut Grilled Cheese at Clinton Hall
For a quirky culinary creation that sounds bizarre but tastes amazing, you have to try the doughnut grilled cheese at Clinton Hall. This casual spot, with multiple locations, is known for its extensive craft beer selection and inventive pub fare, but this sweet-and-savory sandwich is truly unique.
Presented theatrically, often dangling from a hook over tomato soup, it features a sliced doughnut grilled with melted cheese inside. The surprising combination works because the frying caramelizes the interior of the doughnut, providing a sweet counterpoint to the savory cheese. It’s incredibly photogenic and a fun, unexpected dish to share with friends while enjoying drinks and games like giant Jenga at their locations.
Ramen Pioneers: Momofuku Noodle Bar
David Chang’s Momofuku Noodle Bar in the East Village holds a significant place in NYC’s modern culinary history. Opening in 2004, it was instrumental in introducing elevated, chef-driven ramen to a wider American audience, moving the dish beyond its instant noodle reputation.
A visit here is a chance to experience the origins of a major food trend. The ramen bowls are stars, featuring rich broths and quality ingredients like smoked pork. Don’t miss their famous buns, airy and delicious pockets filled with various fillings. The menu changes, reflecting seasonal availability and culinary innovation, but the commitment to flavorful, thoughtful dishes remains. Enjoying a meal here offers a taste of NYC’s dynamic and influential food scene. The city’s culinary landscape is vast, encompassing everything from hidden gems to major events like restaurant week nyc 2023.
A Taste of Ukraine in the East Village
While Greenwich Village is famous, explore the nearby East Village area historically known as Little Ukraine for a taste of a different cultural enclave. Home to one of the largest Ukrainian populations outside Eastern Europe, this neighborhood offers authentic culinary experiences.
Veselka, meaning ‘rainbow,’ is a beloved institution opened in 1954 by post-WWII refugees and still family-run today. This restaurant serves comforting Ukrainian classics like borscht, handmade pierogi (fried or boiled), latkes, and goulash. Dining here, surrounded by Ukrainian decor, provides insight into the community’s enduring presence and cultural pride in NYC. It’s a delicious way to experience a specific heritage that has contributed to the city’s diverse identity.
Old World Glamour at Bemelmans Bar
Located in the luxurious Carlyle Hotel, Bemelmans Bar is an iconic New York institution that offers a step back into a more glamorous era. Famous for its whimsical murals painted by Ludwig Bemelmans (creator of the Madeline children’s books), the bar exudes old-world charm.
While cocktails come at a price, the atmosphere is truly unique: low lighting, plush leather banquettes, impeccably dressed staff, and live jazz music, often from a piano trio. It feels like a scene from a classic movie. To experience the ambiance without a hefty bill, consider visiting earlier in the evening before the cover charges increase, perhaps just for one signature drink. It’s an experience of classic NYC sophistication and a potential spot for a truly romantic evening.
Hidden Havens: Unique Parks and Gardens in NYC
Escape the concrete and crowds in these lesser-known green spaces that offer tranquility and a sense of local life, representing some of the most peaceful unique things to do in nyc.
Community Life at Columbus Park
Tucked away between Chinatown and the Civic Center in Lower Manhattan, Columbus Park is a small but vibrant community hub. It provides a stark contrast to the surrounding busy streets, offering a glimpse into the daily life of the local residents.
Here, you’ll find locals gathering to socialize, play traditional games like Mahjong and Xiangqi (Chinese chess), and simply relax. It’s not a manicured tourist attraction but a genuine neighborhood park. Sitting on a bench here, observing the friendly games and conversations, offers a quiet, authentic New York experience away from the typical tourist flow.
Relax at Verdi Square in the Upper West Side
A small triangular park at the intersection of Broadway and Amsterdam Avenue, Verdi Square is a pleasant spot for a break when exploring the Upper West Side, perhaps after visiting the Museum of Natural History.
The square features benches, flower beds, and a statue of Italian composer Giuseppe Verdi. A particularly charming feature is the old head house building serving as the entrance to the 72nd Street subway station, with artwork paying homage to Verdi. It’s a peaceful urban oasis. While there, I highly recommend visiting the original Levain Bakery just a block away for one of their famously thick and gooey cookies and enjoying it on a park bench. Also nearby is the stunning Ansonia building, a historic Beaux-Arts landmark.
Secluded Serenity: St. Luke In The Fields Garden
Find a moment of quiet contemplation in the charming garden on the grounds of the Church of England church, St. Luke In The Fields, located in the heart of the West Village. This small, well-maintained garden offers benches and seasonal beauty.
When I visited in spring, the blossoms and flowers were in full bloom, creating a delightful and peaceful atmosphere. It felt like a truly hidden gem, providing a secluded spot to sit and recharge away from the bustling city streets. It’s a perfect, simple addition to a walk through the historic West Village neighborhood.
Cherry Blossoms Without Crowds: Sasaki Garden & Sakura Park
While popular spots like Central Park attract crowds during cherry blossom season (typically March-April), you can find equally beautiful and much quieter displays in other parts of the city. Sasaki Garden and Sakura Park are two excellent examples, offering unique tranquil escapes.
Sasaki Garden is a central courtyard within the Washington Square Village apartment complex near NYU. It features a lovely grove of mature cherry trees that are spectacular when in bloom, offering plenty of benches for quiet enjoyment, a stark contrast to the busy Washington Square Park nearby. Further uptown in Morningside Heights, Sakura Park (meaning ‘cherry blossom’ in Japanese) is another serene spot. Named to commemorate Japan’s gift of cherry trees in 1912, it features beautiful blossoms and a Japanese stone lantern donated by Tokyo. It’s a peaceful park often frequented by Columbia University students and locals, offering a calm retreat.
Waterfront Views from Hunter’s Point South Park
Cross the East River into Long Island City, Queens, to visit Hunter’s Point South Park for arguably one of the best and most relaxed vantage points of the Midtown Manhattan skyline. This waterfront park provides stunning, unobstructed views of iconic skyscrapers like the Empire State Building and the Chrysler Building.
The park features a boardwalk perfect for strolling, various recreational areas, and ample space to simply sit and admire the view. It’s particularly magical as daylight fades, offering incredible sunset colors over the skyline and the spectacle of the city lighting up at night. It’s a peaceful escape offering world-class views without the Manhattan crowds.
An Upper East Side Gem: Carl Schurz Park
While not entirely unknown, Carl Schurz Park serves primarily as the main green space for Upper East Side residents and is often overlooked by visitors compared to Central Park. Situated along the East River, it offers a beautifully landscaped environment and pleasant promenade walks.
The park features attractive flower beds, mature trees (including cherry trees that blossom in spring), handsome pathways, and engaging views of the East River, Roosevelt Island, and Randall’s Island. It’s a lively local spot, perfect for observing neighborhood life, from joggers to dog walkers. Although Gracie Mansion, the official Mayor’s residence, is located within the park, it’s largely hidden from view. The real draw here is the refined urban park experience and the serene riverfront path.
Shop Unique: Uncommon Stores in NYC
Beyond department stores and flagships, NYC has a wealth of unique retail experiences, offering a glimpse into history, niche cultures, and specialized crafts.
Historic Jewish Delights at Yonah Schimmel Knish Bakery
A true New York institution, Yonah Schimmel Knish Bakery on the Lower East Side has been serving traditional Jewish knishes since 1890 from its current location since 1910. While its famous neighbor Katz’s Deli gets much of the attention, Yonah Schimmel offers a taste of a different, equally historic culinary tradition.
A knish is a baked snack of dough filled typically with mashed potato or other savory ingredients. The bakery’s storefront itself is a step back in time, looking much as it did decades ago, a delightful piece of living history. Even if you just stop by to admire the wonderfully retro facade, it’s a unique landmark representing the area’s rich immigrant past.
A Step Back in Time: Block Drug Store
In the East Village, a neighborhood known for its historical counterculture roots, Block Drug Store stands out with its distinctive neon-lit facade. This store looks like a relic from a bygone era, preserving a piece of 20th-century streetscape.
The unique aspect is that it’s not just a facade – it’s still an operating independent pharmacy and drug store, serving the community since 1885. Visiting this place feels like a genuine trip back in time. It’s a reminder of the neighborhood’s layered history and a chance to support a long-standing local business while appreciating its retro charm.
The Charm of an Independent Bookstore: The Corner Bookstore
In an age dominated by online retail and large chains, finding a thriving independent bookstore is increasingly rare. The Corner Bookstore, nestled in a charming brownstone on Madison Avenue in the Upper East Side since 1978, is just such a place.
It prides itself on a carefully curated selection of books and personalized service, evoking the feel of a classic neighborhood bookshop reminiscent of those seen in movies set in New York. Browsing the shelves here is a pleasure for any book lover. Its proximity to Central Park and the famous Levain Bakery makes it a perfect stop to pick up reading material before heading to a nearby green space to relax.
Paving the Way: NYC’s First Vegan Boutique, Moo Shoes
Moo Shoes in the Lower East Side holds the distinction of being New York City’s first vegan boutique. For over two decades, long before veganism was widespread, this shop offered cruelty-free footwear and fashion, pioneering ethical retail in the city.
The store stocks a variety of stylish shoes, handbags, and apparel made from innovative, sustainable materials like apple, pineapple, and cactus leather. Alongside their own brand, they feature vegan options from popular labels. Shopping here supports a business committed not only to animal welfare but also to sustainable practices and fair labor. A unique bonus? You might be greeted by one of the store’s rescued cats! It’s a key destination for ethical shopping amidst NYC’s massive retail landscape. There are so many fantastic unique things to do in nyc related to conscious living.
Magic Comes to Life: The Harry Potter Store
For fans of the wizarding world, the Harry Potter Store in NYC is far more than just a retail space; it’s an immersive experience. Spread across multiple floors, this store brings elements of the Harry Potter universe to life in the heart of the city.
Beyond a vast collection of merchandise and unique souvenirs, visitors can step into different themed areas, enjoy wizarding treats like Butterbeer and magical confections from the Honeydukes section, and even participate in interactive experiences. A major highlight is the virtual reality experiences, like “Chaos at Hogwarts” or “Wizards Take Flight,” which offer thrilling rides through the wizarding world (booking recommended). The attention to detail throughout the store, including displays of movie memorabilia and interactive elements like a wand experience, makes it a truly enchanting and unique destination for fans.
To explore a city fully is to seek out its myriad layers, moving beyond the postcard images to discover the places and experiences that tell a deeper story. These unique things to do in nyc offer just that – opportunities to connect with the city’s history, diverse cultures, vibrant communities, and unexpected pockets of beauty and fun. Whether you’re soaring above the skyline, delving into the past, savoring a unique dish, or finding peace in a hidden garden, each experience adds a new dimension to your understanding of New York. So, venture forth and live the culture, one unique moment at a time.