As a seasoned content creator specializing in travel, culture, history, and culinary experiences, I know that exploring a city goes far beyond the typical tourist checklist. New York City, a vibrant mosaic of neighborhoods and stories, offers endless possibilities for those seeking to uncover its hidden layers. For travelers who have already seen the major landmarks or simply crave a deeper connection with the city’s soul, seeking out unique NYC tours provides an unparalleled pathway to discovery. These aren’t just sightseeing trips; they are immersive journeys that delve into the heart of NYC’s diverse identity, revealing surprising facets of its culture, history, and everyday life.
Beyond the iconic skyline and famous museums, unique tours allow you to experience New York through the eyes of locals, explore niche interests, and uncover stories often missed by conventional routes. From culinary adventures in historic enclaves to explorations of forgotten architectural marvels and niche cultural scenes, these unique NYC tours promise unforgettable experiences that resonate long after you leave the city. Let’s dive into some exceptional ways to see New York, focusing on places and activities that could feature prominently in the best unique NYC tours. If you’re looking for unique new york experiences that truly stand out, read on.
Experiential & Adventure Tours in NYC
For those seeking thrills or simply a fresh perspective, unique NYC tours can take you on exhilarating adventures high above the city or to unexpected island escapes just moments from Manhattan.
Soar Above the Skyline on an Open-Door Helicopter Tour
Contributed by Pierre from WayfareWithPierre.com
Imagine seeing the Statue of Liberty, Central Park, and the Brooklyn Bridge from a perspective few ever experience – with nothing between you and the city below but air. An open-door helicopter tour offers this breathtaking view and is arguably one of the most thrilling unique NYC tours available. Companies like FlyNYON provide safety briefings and harnesses, allowing you to safely hang your legs out and capture truly iconic, panoramic shots of world-famous landmarks.
View from an open-door Helicopter ride
While perhaps not a traditional ‘tour’ in the walking sense, this aerial adventure provides a swift yet unforgettable overview, showcasing the sheer scale and beauty of New York City in a way that ground-level exploration simply cannot. It’s a unique rush and a memory that lasts a lifetime, offering a dynamic perspective often highlighted in high-end, unique NYC experiences.
Escape to Governors Island
Governors Island, just a short ferry ride from Lower Manhattan, feels like a world away from the city’s hustle. This car-free oasis offers stunning free views of the skyline and Statue of Liberty and is a perfect destination for a unique day trip or a stop on a tailored NYC tour focusing on harbor islands.
Governors Island with a view of the Manhattan skyline. Photo by Jessie On A Journey
Unique activities here include renting a grill at Picnic Point for a waterfront BBQ, relaxing at QC NY Spa, or glamping. The island also hosts various events like the Jazz Age Lawn Party, making it a dynamic destination for unique activities NYC travelers will love. Exploring Governor’s Island can be a full-day unique NYC experience in itself, offering a blend of relaxation, recreation, and incredible views.
Ride the Roosevelt Island Tramway
By me, Martha from MayCauseWanderlust.com
For a unique and budget-friendly urban transit experience, the Roosevelt Island Tramway is a must. This aerial tramway connects Manhattan to Roosevelt Island, offering passengers views as if they are floating between the skyscrapers of the Upper East Side. It’s a simple journey but feels incredibly unique, particularly when experienced at night with the city lights twinkling below.
View through the window of the Roosevelt Island Tramway
Costing just the price of a subway ride, this short trip provides a perspective distinct from traditional tours and can easily be incorporated into a self-guided exploration of the East River waterfront. It’s a prime example of how even simple transit can become a unique NYC experience.
Discover the Quirky Side at Coney Island Sideshows By The Seashore
Contributed by Megan of Your Brooklyn Guide
Coney Island is an iconic destination, but for a truly unique experience, head to Sideshows by the Seashore. This is home to the last permanently housed traditional ten-in-one sideshow in the US, featuring eccentric and talented performers from fire breathers to acrobats.
A trapeze artist performing at Coney Island Sideshows By The Seashore.
A visit here is a dive into a nostalgic, quirky world that feels distinctly removed from mainstream entertainment. While not a guided tour, experiencing the sideshow is a unique cultural activity that embodies the offbeat spirit perfect for inclusion in any guide to quirky things to do in New York.
Deep Dive History & Cultural Tours
Unique NYC tours often excel at peeling back the layers of the city’s complex past and vibrant present, leading you to places steeped in history and rich cultural narratives.
Step Back in Time at the Tenement Museum
Contributed by Sarah from Mukikapup’s Travels
Located in the Lower East Side, the Tenement Museum offers a powerful and poignant look into the lives of immigrant families who lived in this historic tenement building. Unlike traditional museums, the experience is often delivered through guided tours of the actual apartments, brought to life by historians or actors sharing compelling personal stories.
The historic Tenement Museum building in the Lower East Side, a key stop for unique history tours.
These tours are immersive, allowing you to connect deeply with the history of immigration in New York. It’s a profound experience that forms the backbone of many unique NYC tours focused on social history and urban development. Advance booking is highly recommended due to popularity.
Explore NYC’s Transportation Past at the New York Transit Museum
Contributed by Megan of Bobo & Chichi
Hidden within a decommissioned subway station in Brooklyn, the New York Transit Museum is a unique attraction perfect for history buffs and curious explorers. The museum chronicles the development of the city’s public transportation through exhibits, photos, and interactive displays.
New York Transit Museum exterior in a former subway station.
The real highlight, and what makes it a prime spot for unique history tours, is the collection of vintage subway cars on the lower platform, dating back to 1907. Visitors can walk through and sit in these actual trains, offering a tangible connection to different eras of NYC history. It’s a cool, nostalgic experience often overlooked by mainstream tourists.
Discover Medieval Art and Architecture at The Met Cloisters
Contributed by Kasia Kalemba from Perfect Day Somewhere
Nestled in Fort Tryon Park in Upper Manhattan, The Met Cloisters provides a serene escape and a unique cultural experience. Part of the Metropolitan Museum of Art, this branch focuses on medieval European art and architecture, designed to resemble a tranquil monastery.
Interior view of a medieval-style church with stained glass windows at The Met Cloisters.
Exploring its gardens, chapels, and cloisters filled with ancient artifacts offers a peaceful journey back in time. While you can visit independently, The Met Cloisters is a unique destination that could easily be part of a specialized art or architecture-focused unique NYC tour, offering a stark contrast to the modern city just outside its walls.
Appreciate Early 20th-Century Art at the Neue Galerie
Contributed by me, Martha from MayCauseWanderlust.com
Located on Museum Mile, the Neue Galerie is a smaller, specialized museum focusing on early 20th-century German and Austrian art and design. For art lovers seeking something beyond the blockbuster museums, this is a unique stop.
Neue Galerie museum building on Fifth Avenue in NYC.
It notably houses Gustav Klimt’s famous “Woman in Gold.” The intimate setting allows for a focused appreciation of the artwork. Visiting here, perhaps followed by coffee and strudel at the Viennese-style Café Sabarsky, offers a sophisticated and unique cultural experience often included in curated art-focused unique NYC tours.
Printed cards featuring Gustav Klimt’s ‘Woman In Gold’ from the Neue Galerie gift shop.
Culinary Exploration Tours
New York’s food scene is legendary, but unique NYC tours can take you beyond the famous delis and pizza joints to discover hidden culinary gems and taste the city’s rich cultural tapestry through its food.
Experience Soul Food & Gospel at Red Rooster, Harlem
Contributed by me, Martha from MayCauseWanderlust.com
Red Rooster in Harlem is more than just a restaurant; it’s a cultural hub offering delicious American comfort food. While you can dine here anytime, the Sunday Gospel Brunch provides a truly unique NYC experience, combining fantastic food like chicken & waffles or shrimp & grits with an electrifying live gospel choir performance.
Red Rooster Gospel Brunch performance with a choir on stage.
This is a prime example of a destination perfect for a unique NYC tour focused on Harlem’s vibrant culture, history, and culinary scene. Booking well in advance is essential for this popular event.
Taste the Unexpected: Doughnut Grilled Cheese at Clinton Hall
Contributed by Kelly of Travel New York Now
For a quirky and surprisingly delicious culinary stop, seek out Clinton Hall, a beer hall known for its famous Doughnut Grilled Cheese. This inventive dish, served dangling from a hook with cheese dripping into tomato soup, shouldn’t work but is a delightful and Instagrammable treat.
The famous Doughnut Grilled Cheese dish from Clinton Hall, NYC.
Clinton Hall offers a fun, casual atmosphere with giant board games, making it a great stop on a relaxed or quirky-themed unique NYC tour focusing on unusual food experiences and casual hangouts.
Savor Authentic Ramen at Momofuku Noodle Bar
Contributed by Denise from Chef Denise
Momofuku Noodle Bar, David Chang’s original establishment in the East Village, is credited with popularizing gourmet ramen in America. For foodies on a unique culinary tour of NYC, visiting this iconic spot is a must.
Momofuku Noodle Bar’s signature steaming ramen bowl.
Beyond the famous ramen, try their delicious buns, which make a great starter. The ever-changing menu ensures there’s always something new to explore. Momofuku represents a significant moment in NYC’s recent food history and is a key stop on any tour focusing on modern New York cuisine and its global influences.
Dive into Ukrainian Culture in Little Ukraine
Contributed by Amanda from Hey! East Coast USA
Just east of Greenwich Village lies Little Ukraine, a historic neighborhood shaped by its Ukrainian immigrant community. Exploring this area, perhaps as part of a cultural walking tour, offers a taste of Eastern European heritage in NYC.
Delicious pierogi served at Veselka in NYC’s Little Ukraine.
The most famous spot is Veselka, a long-standing restaurant serving traditional comfort food like borscht and pierogi. Dining here is more than just a meal; it’s an immersion into the community’s heart, providing a unique flavor of NYC’s diverse cultural mosaic.
Experience Old-World Glamour at Bemelmans Bar
Contributed by me, Martha from MayCauseWanderlust.com
Bemelmans Bar at The Carlyle Hotel is a timeless New York institution, often overlooked by the casual visitor due to its exclusive reputation and price point. However, stepping into this bar is like entering a time capsule of 1940s New York elegance.
Cocktails on a table at Bemelmans Bar, an elegant New York City bar.
Adorned with original murals by Ludwig Bemelmans (creator of the Madeline children’s books), the bar offers live jazz and impeccable service. While expensive, visiting for just one drink early in the evening is a way to experience a truly unique slice of vintage NYC glamour, a perfect finale for a sophisticated unique NYC tour focusing on history and style.
Exploring NYC’s Hidden Green Spaces & Neighborhood Vibes
Unique NYC tours aren’t just about famous sites; they can also guide you to tranquil parks, charming streets, and local hangouts that reveal the city’s quieter, more personal side. These locations are ideal for incorporating into walking tours or neighborhood explorations. You can find cool experiences in NYC by looking beyond the obvious destinations.
Find Peace in Columbus Park
Contributed by me, Martha from MayCauseWanderlust.com
Tucked between the bustling streets of Chinatown and the Civic Center, Columbus Park is a small but vital community hub. It’s a place where locals gather to play Mahjong and Xiangqi (Chinese chess), chat, and simply relax.
Men playing Xiangqi in Columbus Park, a local gathering spot in Chinatown, NYC.
Visiting this park offers a glimpse into the fabric of neighborhood life, a peaceful contrast to the surrounding urban intensity. It’s an excellent stop on a unique walking tour of Lower Manhattan, providing a moment to pause and soak in the local atmosphere.
A Moment of Charm at St. Luke In The Fields Garden
Located in the West Village, the gardens surrounding the Church of St. Luke In The Fields offer a delightful, tranquil retreat. These small but charming gardens, especially beautiful in spring when flowers and blossoms are in bloom, provide benches for quiet contemplation.
St. Luke In The Fields Garden, a peaceful green space in the West Village, NYC.
Discovering such peaceful corners is a highlight of exploring NYC on foot and can be part of a unique neighborhood tour focused on finding serenity amidst the city’s energy.
Seek Cherry Blossoms at Sasaki Garden & Sakura Park
If you’re visiting New York during cherry blossom season (March-April) and want to avoid the most crowded spots, unique exploration can lead you to quieter gems like Sasaki Garden in Washington Square Village and Sakura Park in Mornington Heights.
Paved square shaded by groves of mature cherry trees with pink and white blossoms at Sasaki Garden.
Sasaki Garden offers benches under a grove of mature cherry trees, providing a peaceful spot for rest. Sakura Park, with its Japanese lantern and attractive pavilion, commemorates the gift of cherry trees from Japan. Both are beautiful, less crowded locations perfect for inclusion in unique NYC tours focused on seasonal beauty or serene urban landscapes.
Panoramic Views from Hunter’s Point South Park
For spectacular, less-obvious views of the Midtown Manhattan skyline, head across the East River to Hunter’s Point South Park in Long Island City, Queens. This waterfront park offers unparalleled vistas of iconic buildings like the Empire State Building and the Chrysler Building.
View of a green-colored skyscraper with a dusky sky from Hunter’s Point South Park.
View of the Empire State Building at night from Hunter’s Point South Park.
A visit here is especially magical around sunset or at night when the city lights up. It’s an excellent destination for unique NYC tours that explore boroughs beyond Manhattan, offering stunning photo opportunities and a different perspective on the famous skyline.
A Touch of Old NYC at Verdi Square
Located at the intersection of Broadway and Amsterdam Avenue in the Upper West Side, Verdi Square is a small, charming spot named after the Italian composer Giuseppe Verdi. It features flower beds, benches, and a statue of Verdi, plus a notable old subway entrance building.
Verdi Square featuring flower beds, benches, a statue, and a vintage green subway entrance.
While perhaps not a primary destination, it’s a lovely place to pause if you’re exploring the Upper West Side, maybe after grabbing a famous cookie from the nearby Levain Bakery. It’s an example of the smaller, historic public spaces one might discover on a detailed neighborhood unique NYC tour.
Discover Street Art in Freeman Alley
Contributed by me, Martha from MayCauseWanderlust.com
In the Lower East Side, Freeman Alley is a short, covered passageway completely transformed by vibrant street art, graffiti, and murals. Walking through this alley is a colorful, dynamic experience.
A covered alleyway in NYC completely covered in graffiti and street art.
It’s a free and accessible outdoor gallery, perfect for those interested in urban art. Exploring alleys like this can be a fascinating part of a street art or neighborhood unique NYC tour, revealing hidden creative expressions throughout the city. Discovering spots like these adds to the list of unique things to do in NYC 2022 (and beyond).
Niche Interest & Quirky Finds on Unique NYC Tours
New York caters to every interest imaginable. Unique NYC tours can hone in on specific passions, from architecture and literature to retail history and even magic.
Step into the Wizarding World at the Harry Potter Store
Contributed by Lisa from Planning Away
For fans of the Harry Potter universe, the official Harry Potter Store in NYC is far more than just a shop; it’s an immersive experience. Located near the Flatiron Building, this multi-level store offers unique merchandise and interactive elements.
The entrance and shop front of the Harry Potter Store in New York City.
Beyond shopping, you can enjoy Harry Potter-themed food and drinks, engage in interactive wand experiences, and even participate in virtual reality adventures (booking recommended). This store is a destination in itself, highlighting how unique NYC tours can cater to highly specific interests and fandoms.
Explore Retail History at Yonah Schimmel Knish Bakery & Block Drug Store
Contributed by me, Martha from MayCauseWanderlust.com
For a taste of old-school NYC retail history, visit Yonah Schimmel Knish Bakery in the Lower East Side. Operating since 1890, this bakery specializes in traditional Jewish knishes and features a wonderfully retro storefront largely unchanged since the 1950s.
The vintage storefront of Yonah Schimmel Knish Bakery in the Lower East Side.
Similarly, Block Drug Store in the East Village, with its iconic neon facade dating from 1945, is a functioning independent pharmacy operating since 1885. These locations offer a glimpse into a bygone era of New York retail and could be featured on unique NYC tours focusing on historic businesses or neighborhood character.
Block Drug Store facade with vintage neon signs in the East Village.
Uncover Literary Treasures at The Morgan Library And Museum
Contributed by Sam Opp from Find Love and Travel
The Morgan Library and Museum, located in Murray Hill, is a stunning Gilded Age mansion housing a remarkable collection of rare books, manuscripts, and art. Its opulent interiors and tranquil central court (home to the Morgan Café) make it a hidden gem.
The stunning interior of the main library room at The Morgan Library.
This location offers a blend of history, architecture, and literary appreciation. It’s a sophisticated stop that could be part of a unique NYC tour focusing on art, history, or literature, providing a peaceful, cultured escape from the city bustle.
Step into the World of Espionage at Spyscape
Contributed by Kelly of Girl with the Passport
For an interactive and engaging experience, Spyscape is a museum dedicated to espionage and code-breaking. Unlike traditional museums, it offers immersive activities where visitors can test their own spy skills through surveillance, code-breaking, and lie detection challenges.
Exterior sign for Spyscape, an interactive spy museum in NYC.
This museum is a fun, unique activity perfect for families, groups, or anyone who enjoys puzzles and interactive exhibits. It represents a modern twist on a museum experience, ideal for those seeking cool experiences in NYC that are hands-on and memorable.
Explore NYC Through Film Locations
Contributed by me, Martha from MayCauseWanderlust.com
New York City is a star in countless films. Seeking out movie locations is a free and endlessly fascinating way to explore the city, either self-guided or as part of themed unique NYC tours.
When Harry Met Sally diner scene location at Katz’s Diner in the Lower East Side.
From iconic spots like Katz’s Deli (featured in “When Harry Met Sally”) to the grand architecture seen in classic films, following in the footsteps of movie characters reveals new perspectives on familiar streets and buildings. This theme offers rich possibilities for specialized unique NYC tours catering to cinephiles. Finding these sites is definitely among the quirky things to do in New York.
The historic Ansonia building in NYC, known for its distinctive architecture and film appearances.
Discover Ethical Fashion at NYC’s First Vegan Boutique
Contributed by Rebecca from Veggies Abroad
Moo Shoes is recognized as NYC’s first vegan boutique, offering cruelty-free footwear, handbags, and clothing. Founded over 20 years ago, the store focuses on sustainable and ethically-made fashion from innovative materials like apple and pineapple leather.
Moo Shoes storefront in NYC, specializing in vegan fashion.
For conscious consumers or those interested in sustainable fashion, visiting Moo Shoes is a unique retail experience. It’s a niche interest that could be part of unique NYC tours focusing on ethical shopping, sustainability, or the city’s thriving vegan scene.
Map: Locations for Unique NYC Tours
Here’s a map highlighting many of the unique locations discussed in this article. These points of interest can serve as destinations or stops on your own self-guided exploration or inspire the itinerary of curated unique NYC tours.
How To Use This Map: Click the tab in the top left-hand corner of the map to view the layers. If you click the icons on the map, you can get more information about each one. If you click the star next to the map’s title, it will be added to your Google Maps account. To view it on your phone or computer, open Google Maps, click the menu, go to ‘Your Places’ or ‘Saved’, then click Maps and you will see this map in your list.
Finding Unique Places To Stay In NYC
To complement your exploration via unique NYC tours, consider staying somewhere equally distinctive. Short-term rentals via platforms like Vrbo can offer cool apartments or lofts that provide a local feel.
Alternatively, I’ve experienced some great hotels across different price points that offer unique stays:
- 3 Star: Pod 39 in Midtown provides clean, space-efficient rooms and a lively rooftop bar, a solid budget option with a bit of personality.
- 4 Star: The Nolitan in Nolita boasts a cool urban style with steel, concrete, and velvet textures, offering balconies and easy access to vibrant downtown neighborhoods.
- 5 Star: The Wall Street Hotel in the Financial District offers luxury with plush rooms, huge bathrooms, and excellent service, providing a sophisticated base for exploring downtown.
An elegant bedroom with a white and blue color scheme at The Wall Street Hotel.
Choosing a unique place to stay can enhance the overall experience of seeking out unique NYC tours and off-the-beaten-path adventures.
To Conclude
New York City is a treasure trove of unique experiences waiting to be discovered. While iconic landmarks are essential, truly connecting with the city means delving into its diverse neighborhoods, uncovering hidden histories, savoring its incredible culinary landscape, and finding tranquility in unexpected corners. Pursuing unique NYC tours or crafting your own itinerary based on these offbeat destinations allows for a deeper, more personal connection with the Big Apple. Whether you’re interested in art, history, food, or simply finding quiet beauty, there’s a unique NYC tour or experience tailored for you. Step off the well-trodden path and let New York surprise you.