14 Hidden Gems in NYC Even Most Locals Miss
Beyond the familiar landmarks, New York City is a metropolis full of world famous attractions, but there are also a host of hidden gems. These places, often on the wrong side of the tourist map, are the quietest, quirkiest, most historic, and most tranquil parts of the city.
In a place as dynamic and layered as New York, there’s always something new to uncover. Whether you’re a local seeking to rediscover your city, or a visitor looking for something new, these lesser known places are just what you need for a day out.
Whispering Gallery in Grand Central
There’s a magical acoustic oddity hidden beneath the grandeur of Grand Central Terminal. Words travel, as if carried by a secret messenger, if you speak softly into the wall. The curvature of the ceiling reflects sound waves.
City Island
New England village is a far cry from the urban chaos most people associate with the city. It is known for its seafood shacks, art galleries and nautical charm. You can stroll along the quaint streets and try The Original Crab Shanty.
The New York Earth Room
The installation on Wooster Street was created by artist Walter De Maria, a room filled with 280,000 pounds of soil. It’s a strange, silent place where you are pulled away from the city’s rush and can contemplate. It’s been a fixture since 1977, and has been kept to perfection by the Dia Art Foundation.
Green-Wood Cemetery
Green-Wood Cemetery was founded in 1838. Its 478 acre Gothic architecture, quiet paths and some of the city’s best skyline views make it a place you shouldn’t miss. It is a very peaceful location with guided tours into its fascinating history.
Smallpox Hospital, Roosevelt Island
If you want a dose of eerie history, then head over to the ruins of the smallpox hospital on Roosevelt Island. Built in 1856, James Renwick Jr designed this Gothic Revival building, which was built originally to treat smallpox patients. It’s a fascinating site for history buffs, and although beautiful it’s also a haunting ruin now.
The Elevated Acre
Hidden away in the Financial District, The Elevated Acre is a rooftop park. It also has a secluded feel with manicured lawns and seating areas because it’s the perfect place for a mid day break. During summer evenings you might catch an outdoor movie or live music event.
The Morgan Library and Museum
The collection began as financier J.P. Morgan’s private collection, but it has grown into one of the city’s most exquisite cultural landmarks. Rare manuscripts, first editions, and jaw dropping architecture are all part of the Morgan Library. Its ornate, book lined study seems like a Renaissance dream.
Mmuseumm
Mmuseumm, a Tribeca alley closet museum, is so small you might blink and miss it. Its rotating exhibits are quirky artifacts or big picture social/aesthetic reflections displayed in two galleries on overlooked, dismissed or ignored aspects of American culture.
Snug Harbor Cultural Center
Snug Harbor is a sprawling complex of gardens, museums, and theaters on Staten Island. The highlight of these gardens is the Chinese Scholar’s Garden. It is a peaceful oasis where you can escape the city, without leaving.
The Ramble in Central Park
The Ramble is a wilderness in the heart of Central Park, but it is not world famous. It is a birdwatcher’s paradise with a 36-acre woodland that attracts over 230 species a year. It has winding paths and a rustic feel that could make you feel as if you were stepping into an enchanted forest.
The Noguchi Museum
This museum, dedicated to the work of Isamu Noguchi, master sculpture and designer, sits in Long Island City. Its indoor out door plan suits Noguchi minimalist aesthetic perfectly and the place makes for a very inspiring and quiet retreat.
The Newtown Creek Nature Walk
The Newtown Creek Nature Walk is an offbeat trail located along the border of Brooklyn and Queens. It shows how industrial areas can live alongside nature. It was designed by George Trakas and includes unique seating and educational plaques on New York’s maritime history. It’s a memorable walk because of the combination of gritty and green.
Old Stone House
This reconstructed Dutch farmhouse, now a museum, tells the story of the Battle of Brooklyn during the Revolutionary War in Park Slope, Brooklyn. It’s a hidden gem, with interactive exhibits and a picturesque garden history buffs can enjoy.
The TWA Hotel Rooftop Pool
The TWA Hotel’s rooftop pool is located at JFK airport. It is open to the public, features a retro vibe, and allows you to see the runways. Take a cocktail and dip your toes, and watch planes take off and land. It’s surprisingly relaxing.
Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.
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10 Best African Photo Safaris You Must Experience
Even if you’ve been on a safari in the past, an African photo safari is something you want to experience or at the very list add to the top of your bucket list.
But first, what is a photo safari? The phrase “photo safari” is not a common sentence structure but its meaning can be deduced easily. An African photo safari in general context means going on an adventure with the sole purpose of taking high-quality pictures.
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