I’m here to guide you beyond the typical tourist trail to uncover some genuinely unusual things to do in Manhattan. Manhattan. The name alone conjures images of towering skyscrapers, bustling streets, and iconic landmarks known the world over. But for those who have experienced the main sights or crave a deeper connection with the city’s soul, Manhattan offers a trove of lesser-known wonders. As an expert in weaving together travel, culture, history, and unique experiences,
This borough is a microcosm of the world, a place where hidden gardens offer respite from the urban rush, historic eateries tell stories through generations, and unique activities provide perspectives you won’t find anywhere else. Let’s delve into Manhattan’s less-explored corners and find those unique New York experiences that truly resonate.
Unique Experiences and Activities Across Manhattan
Manhattan isn’t just about sightseeing; it’s about experiencing. These activities offer a twist on the conventional, providing memories that are far from the ordinary.
Ride the Roosevelt Island Tramway
A simple yet incredibly rewarding way to see Manhattan from a unique angle is via the Roosevelt Island Tramway. Gliding above the East River, this cable car connects Manhattan’s Upper East Side to Roosevelt Island. What makes it one of the unusual things to do in Manhattan? It offers a perspective unlike any other urban transit – you ascend and travel between skyscrapers, feeling like you’re floating through the city’s concrete canyons. It’s particularly magical at night when the city lights twinkle below.
It’s a short ride, only a few minutes, and costs the same as a subway fare, accepting Metrocards. While primarily a commute for Roosevelt Island residents, it’s a fascinating, low-cost urban flight for visitors seeking a novel view.
Experience a unique transit ride between skyscrapers on the Roosevelt Island Tramway in Manhattan.
Explore Governors Island
Technically part of Manhattan, Governors Island is a world away from the mainland’s intensity. Just a short ferry ride from Lower Manhattan, this car-free island is a haven of peace, green spaces, and unique experiences. It offers some of the best free views of the Manhattan skyline and the Statue of Liberty.
Governors Island is perfect for biking, picnicking, and simply wandering. You can even rent a grill at Picnic Point for a unique outdoor cooking experience with a view. Other highlights include waterfront dining, spa days, or simply enjoying the historical sites, art installations, and seasonal events like the Jazz Age Lawn Party. It’s an escape offering quiet contemplation or lively recreation, making it a truly unusual Manhattan day trip.
Enjoy relaxing on Governors Island with stunning views of the Manhattan skyline.
Take an Open-Door Helicopter Tour
For the ultimate thrill and an unparalleled view, an open-door helicopter tour over Manhattan is an unforgettable experience. While helicopter tours exist in many cities, seeing the intricate grid of Manhattan, the scale of its landmarks, and the flow of the rivers from this perspective is breathtaking. Hooked into a harness, you get unobstructed views, perfect for photography or simply soaking in the sheer magnitude of the city.
Soaring over iconic sights like Central Park, the Brooklyn Bridge, and the Statue of Liberty offers a completely different appreciation for Manhattan’s layout and architecture. It’s a high-adrenaline activity that provides one of the most unique perspectives available, easily qualifying as one of the most unusual things to do in Manhattan for those seeking adventure.
Hunt for Manhattan Movie Locations
Manhattan is arguably the most filmed city in the world, serving as the backdrop for countless movies, from classic Hollywood to modern blockbusters. Seeking out specific movie locations is a free and fascinating way to explore the borough, connecting cinematic moments to real-world places.
Walk through Central Park and spot spots from “When Harry Met Sally” or “Ghostbusters.” Visit the Upper West Side and recognize buildings from 90s rom-coms. Pop into Katz’s Delicatessen in the Lower East Side, famously featured in “When Harry Met Sally.” This treasure hunt transforms a simple walk into a journey through film history, offering a personalized and interactive way to engage with Manhattan’s diverse neighborhoods. It’s a fantastic way to uncover some quirky things to do in new york while focusing specifically on Manhattan.
Unusual Museums and Galleries in Manhattan
Beyond the internationally renowned institutions, Manhattan hosts smaller, more specialized museums and galleries that offer intriguing dives into specific subjects or present art in unconventional ways.
Discover Art Deco at the Neue Galerie
Located on the prestigious Museum Mile, the Neue Galerie stands apart by focusing exclusively on early twentieth-century German and Austrian art and design. While surrounded by giants like the Met, this museum provides a concentrated, intimate experience. Its highlight is often the collection featuring Gustav Klimt, including the famous “Woman in Gold.”
Visiting the Neue Galerie offers a quiet contemplation of a specific, influential art period often overshadowed in larger institutions. The museum also houses Café Sabarsky, a Viennese-style cafe that’s an experience in itself, transporting you to old-world Europe right on Fifth Avenue. It’s an art lover’s delight seeking something beyond the blockbuster exhibits, adding a sophisticated entry to our list of unusual things to do in Manhattan.
Souvenir cards from the Neue Galerie featuring Gustav Klimt’s “Woman in Gold,” a highlight of this unique Manhattan museum.
Immerse Yourself in Color at the Color Factory
For a playful, sensory experience that’s a stark contrast to traditional museums, head to the Color Factory in SoHo. This interactive exhibition is dedicated entirely to the exploration and celebration of color through various installations, from rooms filled with confetti and giant ball pits to silent discos and drawing rooms.
The Color Factory is designed for joy and interaction, making it suitable for all ages. It’s not just a visual feast but a tactile and experiential one, encouraging visitors to engage with art in a fun, lighthearted way. It’s a refreshing and quite unusual thing to do in Manhattan, especially if you’re looking for something truly different or a great photo opportunity (many are included with your ticket!).
Dive into a world of vibrant hues and playful installations at the Color Factory in Manhattan.
Step Back in Time at the Tenement Museum
The Tenement Museum on the Lower East Side offers a deeply human and historical experience by exploring the lives of immigrants who lived in a real tenement building. Rather than focusing on grand events, this museum centers on the everyday stories of working-class families from different eras, bringing their experiences to life through preserved apartments and guided tours led by knowledgeable historians or actors.
This immersive approach provides a powerful understanding of the immigrant experience in Manhattan and the cultural tapestry it created. You learn about the challenges, resilience, and daily routines of people who shaped the city. It’s a moving and educational experience that provides historical context to Manhattan’s vibrant multicultural identity, making it a must-do for anyone interested in the city’s human history.
The historic Tenement Museum building on the Lower East Side of Manhattan.
Uncover Secrets at Spyscape
Located in Midtown Manhattan, Spyscape is less a traditional museum and more an interactive adventure that puts you in the shoes of a spy. Through a series of engaging exhibits and challenges designed with help from former intelligence experts, you learn about espionage history, code-breaking, surveillance, and even deception detection.
What makes Spyscape one of the most unusual things to do in Manhattan is the personalized interactive element. As you complete missions, the museum analyzes your skills, culminating in a personal spy profile revealing your strengths and ideal spy role (like Cryptologist, Hacker, or Spymaster). It’s an exciting, high-tech experience that’s entertaining and surprisingly informative, appealing to anyone with a curiosity for intrigue and a desire for hands-on learning.
The distinctive sign for Spyscape, an interactive spy museum in Manhattan.
Admire the Architecture and Collections at The Morgan Library & Museum
A true hidden gem near Midtown, The Morgan Library & Museum is a testament to Gilded Age elegance and intellectual pursuit. Originally the private library of financier J.P. Morgan, the stunning Renaissance Revival building houses a remarkable collection of rare books, manuscripts, drawings, and historical documents.
Beyond the fascinating exhibits (which often feature major artists), the library spaces themselves are works of art, particularly the opulent East Room with its towering shelves, intricate carvings, and magnificent ceiling. Visiting feels like stepping into a sanctuary of history and culture. It’s a tranquil escape from the city bustle, offering beauty and intellectual stimulation in a setting that feels both grand and intimate, a distinct entry among unusual things to do in Manhattan. You might even find some unique new york experiences reflected in its historical collections.
The magnificent interior of The Morgan Library in Manhattan, a treasure trove of rare books and art.
Find Medieval Serenity at The Met Cloisters
Perched high in Fort Tryon Park in Upper Manhattan, The Met Cloisters feels like a medieval monastery transported to the shores of the Hudson River. As a branch of the Metropolitan Museum of Art dedicated to medieval European art and architecture, it offers a profoundly peaceful and immersive cultural experience miles away from the Midtown crowds.
The museum incorporates architectural elements from several medieval cloisters (courtyards) and chapels, creating a serene atmosphere enhanced by beautiful gardens and views of the river. Exploring the tapestries, sculptures, illuminated manuscripts, and stained glass within these walls allows for quiet contemplation and a journey back in time. It’s a sublime blend of art, architecture, and nature, providing a sense of escape and historical depth that is truly unique within Manhattan.
Inside The Met Cloisters, a museum offering a medieval escape in Upper Manhattan.
Unexpected Culinary Delights in Manhattan
Manhattan’s food scene is legendary, but moving beyond the famous delis and pizza slices reveals a world of unique flavors and dining experiences that reflect the borough’s diverse cultural history. Exploring these spots is truly one of the most rewarding unusual things to do in Manhattan.
Savor Soul Food and Gospel at Red Rooster Harlem
In the heart of historic Harlem, Red Rooster is more than just a restaurant; it’s a cultural hub celebrating American comfort food and the vibrant spirit of the neighborhood. Chef Marcus Samuelsson’s menu offers delicious takes on classics like fried chicken, shrimp and grits, and cornbread.
What makes it particularly unusual and memorable is the Sunday Gospel Brunch. Experiencing a live, high-energy gospel choir performance while enjoying a fantastic meal is a powerful cultural immersion. It’s a testament to Harlem’s rich artistic and culinary heritage and offers a truly unique, soul-stirring dining experience not easily found elsewhere in Manhattan.
Enjoy a soulful experience at the Red Rooster Gospel Brunch in Harlem, Manhattan.
Try the Doughnut Grilled Cheese at Clinton Hall
For a culinary creation that’s delightfully eccentric, seek out Clinton Hall, a popular beer hall with several locations across Manhattan. While known for craft beers and a lively atmosphere, their claim to fame for the adventurous eater is the infamous Doughnut Grilled Cheese.
Served dangling from a hook with a bowl of tomato soup underneath to catch the deliciously gooey mozzarella, this dish sounds wrong but is surprisingly right. The sweetness of the griddled doughnut bun contrasts perfectly with the savory cheese. It’s a fun, indulgent, and incredibly Instagrammable snack that embodies the playful side of Manhattan’s diverse food scene, definitely an unusual item to add to your must-try list.
The unique Doughnut Grilled Cheese dish served at Clinton Hall locations in Manhattan.
Experience Ramen History at Momofuku Noodle Bar
The original Momofuku Noodle Bar in the East Village is a significant spot in the history of modern American dining, credited with elevating ramen from a budget meal to a culinary art form. Chef David Chang’s innovative approach to noodles and Asian-inspired small plates launched an empire, but visiting the original still offers a connection to that groundbreaking moment.
While ramen is now widespread, Momofuku Noodle Bar’s commitment to high-quality ingredients and unique flavor combinations (like their famous smoked pork ramen) sets it apart. The menu, featuring various buns and noodle dishes, showcases culinary creativity. Dining here is not just about eating; it’s experiencing a piece of recent New York culinary history. It’s a delicious example of the unusual things to do in Manhattan for dedicated foodies.
The interior of the original Momofuku Noodle Bar in Manhattan’s East Village.
Taste Ukrainian Culture in Little Ukraine
Manhattan’s East Village is home to a historic enclave known as Little Ukraine. While much has changed over the years, a few enduring establishments continue to serve traditional Ukrainian comfort food, offering a taste of this community’s rich cultural heritage.
The most famous is Veselka, a beloved institution serving borscht, pierogi, latkes, and goulash since 1954. Dining here is a warm, hearty experience, surrounded by decor that speaks to Ukrainian identity. It’s a simple yet profound way to connect with the immigrant history and ongoing presence of Ukrainian culture in Manhattan, providing a comforting and culturally rich culinary detour. It’s a perfect example of how food can unlock unique new york experiences linked to history and community.
Delicious pierogi dumplings from Veselka in Manhattan’s Little Ukraine.
Step into Old New York at Bemelmans Bar
Located in the Carlyle Hotel on the Upper East Side, Bemelmans Bar is a Manhattan institution that feels frozen in time. Famous for its walls adorned with the only surviving public murals by Ludwig Bemelmans (creator of the Madeline children’s books), this bar exudes old-world glamour.
While certainly not a budget option, experiencing Bemelmans is about soaking in the atmosphere. With low lighting, leather banquettes, and live jazz piano music, it transports you back to the sophisticated Manhattan of the mid-20th century. It’s an elegant, unique step back in time, offering a distinct sense of place and history through its ambiance and impeccable service. Having just one meticulously crafted cocktail here is an experience worth considering if you’re looking for stylish yet unusual things to do in Manhattan.
Classic cocktails served in the iconic Bemelmans Bar in Manhattan.
Savor a Historic Knish at Yonah Schimmel Knish Bakery
Another Lower East Side landmark, Yonah Schimmel Knish Bakery, has been serving traditional Ashkenazi Jewish knishes since 1890. Stepping into this bakery feels like entering a time capsule, with decor seemingly unchanged for decades.
A knish, a baked or fried dough filled typically with potato or other ingredients, is a classic New York Jewish snack. While less famous globally than bagels or pastrami, it’s a significant part of the city’s culinary history. Visiting Yonah Schimmel offers a taste of this tradition in an environment that authentically reflects its long heritage. It’s a simple, delicious, and historic stop for anyone interested in Manhattan’s diverse food story.
The historic storefront of Yonah Schimmel Knish Bakery on the Lower East Side of Manhattan.
Quirky Shops and Fascinating Finds in Manhattan
Manhattan’s retail landscape is vast, but beyond the department stores and luxury boutiques lie unique shops offering niche products, historical charm, or unusual themes.
Step Back in Time at Block Drug Store
In the East Village, a neighborhood with a rich countercultural history, Block Drug Store stands out as a fascinating relic. With its vintage neon sign that looks straight out of the 1950s, this independent pharmacy has been in operation since 1885.
While you might expect a retro facade concealing a modern business, Block Drug Store is still a functional pharmacy. Visiting is less about what you buy and more about appreciating a piece of old Manhattan that has resisted the waves of change. It’s a small, visual detail on the street that sparks curiosity and offers a glimpse into the neighborhood’s past. Supporting a local business with such deep roots adds a layer of meaning to this simple stop. It’s a great example of finding unique things to do in nyc 2022 (and beyond) by observing everyday life.
The historic Block Drug Store in Manhattan’s East Village, identifiable by its vintage neon sign.
Discover a Literary Haven at The Corner Bookstore
In the charming Carnegie Hill section of the Upper East Side, The Corner Bookstore is a beacon for book lovers and a rare example of a thriving independent bookstore in Manhattan. Housed in a beautiful corner brownstone since 1978, it offers a curated selection of books and a personal touch.
Stepping inside feels cozy and welcoming, a stark contrast to larger chain stores. The focus is on quality and community, hosting events like readings and talks. For those who appreciate the quiet magic of a well-stocked bookstore, this spot offers a peaceful browsing experience and a connection to a more traditional retail environment. Its location in a lovely residential neighborhood adds to its unique charm.
The charming exterior of The Corner Bookstore, an independent bookshop in an Upper East Side brownstone in Manhattan.
Shop Sustainably at NYC’s First Vegan Boutique, Moo Shoes
For environmentally and ethically conscious shoppers, Moo Shoes in the Lower East Side represents a pioneering effort in sustainable fashion. Opened over 20 years ago, long before veganism hit the mainstream, it was Manhattan’s first boutique dedicated solely to cruelty-free footwear, later expanding to handbags and clothing.
Moo Shoes sources items made from innovative, sustainable materials like apple, pineapple, and cactus leather, ensuring ethical labor practices. Beyond their own brand, they stock vegan options from popular brands. It’s a specialized shopping experience that caters to a specific ethos, highlighting a growing movement in urban fashion. You might even meet one of the store’s resident rescue cats acting as greeters! It’s a niche yet significant spot among the unusual things to do in Manhattan for mindful consumers.
Inside Moo Shoes, Manhattan’s first vegan boutique, offering cruelty-free footwear and accessories.
Enter the Wizarding World at the Harry Potter Store
For fans of the Harry Potter universe, the official Harry Potter Store near the Flatiron Building offers more than just merchandise; it’s an immersive experience. This multi-level store is beautifully themed, transporting visitors into the world of witches and wizards with impressive details and interactive elements.
Highlights include themed sections resembling Honeydukes sweet shop, opportunities for wand experiences, and incredibly detailed decor that references locations and moments from the films. For an extra special (ticketed) adventure, you can even experience virtual reality rides. It’s a large-scale, themed retail experience that goes far beyond typical shopping, making it one of the most magical and unusual things to do in Manhattan for fans of the franchise.
The inviting entrance to the Harry Potter Store in Manhattan, offering a magical shopping experience.
Secret Gardens and Peaceful Retreats in Manhattan
Finding tranquility in the midst of Manhattan’s energy can feel like a challenge, but hidden pockets of green offer surprising moments of peace. Discovering these sanctuaries is a truly rewarding part of exploring the borough off the beaten path.
Observe Community Life at Columbus Park
Tucked away in Chinatown, Columbus Park is a small but vibrant green space that serves as a central gathering point for the local community. Unlike the grand, tourist-filled parks, Columbus Park offers a glimpse into the daily life of its neighborhood residents.
Here, you’ll often find groups of older residents playing Mahjong or Xiangqi (Chinese chess), practicing Tai Chi, or simply socializing. The park’s authenticity lies in its role as a true community hub. Sitting on a bench here provides a moment of calm observation, a chance to soak in the local atmosphere away from the commercial bustle. It’s one of those simple yet profound unusual things to do in Manhattan that connects you with the city’s diverse populations.
Locals playing Xiangqi (Chinese chess) in Columbus Park, a community hub in Manhattan’s Chinatown.
Relax by the Statue at Verdi Square
Situated at a busy intersection on the Upper West Side, Verdi Square is a small triangle park named after Italian composer Giuseppe Verdi, whose statue stands prominently within it. While not a destination in itself, it’s a perfect example of how Manhattan utilizes small spaces to offer moments of respite and public art.
The square features flower beds, benches, and an interesting old head house for the nearby subway station adorned with opera-themed artwork. It’s a pleasant spot to take a break, perhaps with a coffee and cookie from the legendary Levain Bakery just a block away. The annual Verdi Square Festival of the Arts in September also brings free concerts, adding a cultural dimension to this urban oasis.
Verdi Square on the Upper West Side of Manhattan, featuring a statue of Giuseppe Verdi and a historic subway entrance.
Find Solitude at St. Luke In The Fields Garden
Hidden behind the historic Church of St. Luke In The Fields in the charming West Village are small, exquisite gardens that offer a surprising pocket of peace. Accessible to the public, these gardens provide benches for quiet contemplation amidst lush greenery and seasonal blooms.
Visiting this garden, especially on a weekday morning, can feel like discovering a secret oasis. It’s a place for solitude and reflection, far removed from the crowded streets nearby. In spring, the flowers and blossom trees create a particularly beautiful scene. It’s a reminder that even in the densest parts of Manhattan, spaces for quiet beauty and unexpected tranquility can be found.
A peaceful corner in St. Luke In The Fields Garden in Manhattan’s West Village.
Admire Cherry Blossoms at Sasaki Garden
Cherry blossom season (typically March-April) transforms Manhattan into a canvas of soft pink and white, drawing crowds to famous spots. However, Sasaki Garden within the Washington Square Village apartment complex near Washington Square Park offers a less-crowded alternative to enjoy these beautiful trees.
This central courtyard garden, designed by landscape architect Hideo Sasaki, is open to the public and features a lovely grove of mature cherry blossom trees. When in peak bloom, it’s a stunning sight. The presence of numerous benches makes it an ideal spot to sit, relax, and appreciate the fleeting beauty of the blossoms away from the more popular parks. Finding such a tranquil, beautiful spot publicly accessible yet relatively unknown is certainly one of the more delightful unusual things to do in Manhattan.
Beautiful cherry blossom trees in bloom at Sasaki Garden in Manhattan’s Washington Square Village.
Reflect on History at Sakura Park
Further uptown in Morningside Heights, near Columbia University, Sakura Park offers another serene spot to enjoy cherry blossoms and a connection to international friendship. Its name, meaning “cherry blossom” in Japanese, commemorates the gift of 2,000 cherry trees from Japan to New York City in 1912. A stone Japanese torii (lantern) donated by Tokyo in 1960 stands as a symbol of this connection.
Visiting Sakura Park provides a peaceful atmosphere, especially on quieter mornings. It’s not only a place of natural beauty, particularly during blossom season, but also holds historical and cultural significance. The attractive pavilion within the park is sometimes used for performances, adding to its charm. It’s a quiet, reflective park that represents a unique piece of Manhattan’s international heritage. It’s a good place to visit if you’re exploring the area and looking for unique new york experiences.
Sakura Park in Upper Manhattan, featuring cherry blossom trees and a Japanese stone lantern.
Enjoy River Views at Carl Schurz Park
While more known to Upper East Side residents than typical tourists, Carl Schurz Park offers a lovely escape with impressive river views. This park is a pleasant place for a stroll, featuring well-maintained gardens, tree-lined promenades, and views of the East River and Roosevelt Island.
The park’s appeal lies in its relaxed, local atmosphere and scenic waterfront pathway. It’s a place where residents jog, walk dogs, and gather, providing a slice of everyday Manhattan life in a beautiful setting. While Gracie Mansion, the Mayor’s official residence, is located here, the park’s real draw is its peaceful ambiance and attractive landscaping, making it a pleasant, albeit less “hidden,” addition to a list of unusual parks to explore in Manhattan.
Colorful flower beds and cherry trees blooming in Carl Schurz Park, Upper East Side, Manhattan.
FAQ: Finding Unusual Things to Do in Manhattan
Here are answers to some common questions about exploring Manhattan beyond the major landmarks:
Q: Are these unusual activities expensive?
A: The cost varies widely. Some activities like visiting parks (Freeman Alley, Columbus Park, Verdi Square, St. Luke’s Garden, Sasaki Garden, Sakura Park, Carl Schurz Park), seeking movie locations, or riding the Roosevelt Island Tramway are free or low-cost. Others like an open-door helicopter tour or dining at Bemelmans Bar are significant splurges. Museums like the Tenement Museum or Spyscape have entrance fees, while places like Red Rooster or Veselka are standard restaurant prices. There are plenty of unusual things to do in Manhattan for various budgets.
Q: How can I find these less-known spots in Manhattan?
A: Research is key! Using resources like this article, exploring local blogs, and simply wandering off the main avenues in neighborhoods like the Lower East Side, East Village, or Upper Manhattan can lead to unexpected discoveries. Utilizing the subway is also essential to efficiently reach different parts of the borough.
Q: Are these locations safe to visit?
A: Generally, yes. The locations mentioned are in areas frequented by locals and visitors. However, as with any large city, it’s important to be aware of your surroundings, especially when visiting lesser-known areas or at night. Stick to well-lit streets and follow general safety guidelines.
Q: What’s the best time of year to explore unusual Manhattan activities?
A: Manhattan is a year-round destination. Spring and Fall offer pleasant weather for outdoor activities like exploring parks. Winter has unique experiences like holiday markets and cozy indoor spots. Summer is great for outdoor events like Shakespeare in the Park. Your interests will determine the best time, but you can find unusual things to do in Manhattan in any season.
Q: How can I enhance the cultural or historical understanding of these places?
A: Beyond just visiting, take time to read any informational signs, look up the history of the area beforehand, or consider guided tours if available (like at the Tenement Museum). Engaging with locals at places like Columbus Park or historic eateries can also offer deeper insights.
Concluding Thoughts on Unusual Manhattan
Manhattan’s reputation as a global icon is well-deserved, but its true depth is revealed when you venture beyond the most famous attractions. The borough is a treasure chest of unusual things to do in Manhattan, offering unique experiences that connect you with its complex history, vibrant cultures, and hidden pockets of beauty and peace.
From soaring above the skyscrapers in a helicopter to finding quiet gardens, stepping into historic shops, or savoring unexpected culinary delights, these activities provide a different lens through which to see New York City. They offer a chance to experience the city like a local, to uncover stories woven into the urban fabric, and to create memories that are distinctly personal and off the beaten path. So next time you’re in the Big Apple, consider adding some of these unusual Manhattan adventures to your itinerary – you might just discover the soul of the city.