New York City is an awe-inspiring destination, from the Empire State Building to Central Park, the city is brimming with iconic landmarks that draw incredible crowds. There’s no shortage of things to do in NYC so while the major NYC attractions are always worth a visit, there’s also a ton of NYC hidden gems for you to discover. So escape the crowds and explore these hidden gems in New York City.
Visit the Old City Hall Subway Stop
Step back in time and visit the Old City Hall Subway Stop, one of the first stations of the New York City Subway system. Closed in 1945, tour this historic station, and see the vintage architecture and tile arch system. Learn about this NYC hidden gem here.
Catch an Off-Broadway Show: Sleep No More and Then She Fell
These immersive theater shows have gained in popularity but deserve to be on this list for being truly magical experiences. Book a ticket to Sleep No More, a play based off of Shakespeare’s MacBeth or Then She Fell, a performance that touches on Alice in Wonderland and Lewis Carroll’s life. Walk through the venues and witness the show unfold all around you, you may even be pulled into the show yourself!
Pig Out with an NYC Pizza Tour
For those who consider pizza to be its own food group, Scott’s Pizza Tours in NYC is the hidden gem for you! Enjoy a guided walking tour to some of New York’s finest and most famed pizza joints and of course, sample some delicious slices of pie along the way. Book a pizza tour here.
See the Roosevelt Island Smallpox Hospital Ruins
This abandoned NYC building has been designated an official New York City Landmark. The gothic architecture of this 19th-century smallpox hospital gives the location a spooky atmosphere. History buffs will appreciate the moss-covered ruins of at this NYC hidden gem.
Drink up at Please Don’t Tell (PDT)
The name says it all. This NYC speakeasy in the East Village is hidden behind in a hot dog spot. To enter, you need to first look for an old-fashioned phone booth and call for approval. If you’re permitted, the phone booth wall opens to let you into a small bar.
Explore the Freedom Tunnel
Walk through this once abandoned train tunnel that housed a homeless shanty town. Nowadays, the tunnel is an active train track used by Amtrak. Wander the Freedom Tunnel and check out the graffiti in this NYC hidden gem.
Visit the Mmuseumm
Ever wanted to visit a museum so tiny it fits in a freight elevator? Find this *very* hidden gem in an unassuming alleyway and admire the collection of artifacts described as “overlooked, dismissed, or ignored”.
Eavesdrop at the Whispering Gallery in Grand Central Terminal
Journey to Grand Central Terminal, and head to the ‘whisper archway’, in front of Oyster Bar and Restaurant. At this unique point, two people can hear each other’s whispers. Talk about a secret location!
Stroll Along The High Line
The High Line is a popular NYC attraction but you probably won’t find line ups or big crowds, making it a fun, laid-back thing to do on a New York vacation. Stroll along this public park, built on an old freight rail line. Admire the views of Manhattan’s West Side, stop and appreciate the graffiti artwork or sit down on a bench and people watch.
The City Reliquary
The City Reliquary is a not-for-profit community museum in Williamsburg, Brooklyn. Marvel at displays of New York City artifacts like subway rat bones, fragments of landmark buildings, and paint chips from the L train platform. Step inside this time capsule of New York City.
After you enjoy the vibrance of Rockefeller Center and Times Square, head out to one of the NYC hidden gems. Fall in love with New York’s one-of-a-kind attractions!