This list of unique things to do in New York City was written by Yana Zaytseva, co-founder of New York Simply (an official partner of Apple Maps) and a NYC local.
It’s safe to assume that if you’re searching for unique things to do in New York City thisn’t your first rodeo in the Big Apple. Observation decks have been done, Broadway shows have been seen and hotdogs just aren’t cutting it anymore, huh?
So what do you do when the gravity of New York City keeps drawing you in but you’ve checked all the iconic things to do? You start living like a local, enjoy a tons of non-touristy things to do in NYC.
<Visiting New York City? If you haven’t decided where to stay (yet) check out our helpful guide on Where to Stay in New York City (10 Best Neighborhoods +3 to Avoid). Don’t have time? Here’s my favorite hotel in NYC, hands down.
Unique Things to Do in NYC
Table of Contents. Non-Touristy Things to Do in New York City
Table of Contents. Unique New York City Activities
- Unique Things to Do in NYC
- #25. Try Authentic Asian Food in Flushings, Queens
- #23. Go Brewery Hopping in Brooklyn
- #22. Explore a Food Hall
- #21. Partake in a Boozy Brunch
- #18. Shop the Local Farmers Markets
- #13. Go Bowling at Brooklyn Bowl
- #12. Go to a Jazz Show
- #11. Play Some Shuffleboard
- #10. Wander Industry City
- #8. Soak in the City Skyline at Pier 57
- #7. Visit the Green-Wood Cemetery
- Non-Touristy Things to Do New York City (Post Summary)
- Map of Non-Touristy Things to Do in NYC
#25. Try Authentic Asian Food in Flushings, Queens
Starting our list of unique NYC experiences in the underrated borough of Queens, known for its unparalleled ethnic diversity. Explore the diverse and budget-friendly world of Asian cuisine, a crowd favorite for its rich flavors and value.
I never get tired of this view.
For a unique venture, head specifically to Flushing’s Chinatown (spoiler. it’s larger than Manhattan’s) and dive into the food scene. Check out Maxi’s Noodles for a no-frills noodle experience. Tip. Bring cash, as many places may not accept card payments!
#24. Bike Prospect Park
Many folks make the mistake of overlooking Prospect Park during their trips to New York City but I will not let that happen to you. Prospect Park was designed by Frederick Olmstead and Calvert Vaux, the architects responsible for designing Central Park.
Much like Central Park, Prospect Park is massive (covering 526 acres, to be exact). It’s full of great lawns, mature trees and even has BBQ pits (take that, Central Park!).
Biking the pathway in Prospect Park feels like such a treat and that’s why we consider it one of the most it. You’ll quickly discover the park is mostly filled with locals, walking their dogs and finding reprieve in the quiet.
#23. Go Brewery Hopping in Brooklyn
If you’re looking for non-touristy things to do in NYC set your sights on Brooklyn. The borough of Brooklyn is gigantic. To put size into perspective just know that if Brooklyn were its own city it’d be the third largest in America!
Given that Brooklyn has a ton more real estate than Manhattan, the breweries are epic and aplenty. Not every city has this much public transportation at their disposal. As long as you’re drinking responsibly and within your limits, it’s one of the more it with a group of friends.
Looking for suggestions but don’t know where to start? We got you covered! Here are 10 Thirst-Quenching Brooklyn Breweries Guaranteed to Impress.
#22. Explore a Food Hall
Chelsea Market is among the most popular markets in the Big Apple. But since we’re looking for non-touristy things to do in NYC I’ll leave a list of lesser known spots. Now that’s not to say these places don’t get attention, they’re just places you might not visit on your first trip to New York City.
Looking for it? Check out these markets.
- Essex Market | Located in Downtown Manhattan, Essex Market is New York City’s most historic food hall.
- Turnstyle Underground Market | Stretching over an entire city block, this underground market is located in a subway station (yes really!).
- Time Out Market | Timeout Market is a collection of some of the best restaurants in New York City and offers stunning views of Manhattan.
#21. Partake in a Boozy Brunch
If you’ve had your fix of bagels and coffee and want something a little more serious, might I suggest a boozy brunch? It’s one of the most it to save some coin. Many restaurants in New York City offer great deals during the early hours of the day. I’m talking bottomless drinks paired with a fantastic meal often for around $30 — it’s a steal!
Further Reading. So you’re intrigued and don’t know where to start? No worries, the hard parts done! Check out 25 Best Bottomless Brunches in New York City (Worth Every Penny).
#20. Ride the Roosevelt Island Tram
The tram takes you from the Upper East Side to Roosevelt Island for the price of a subway ride ($2.75). Which is remarkable considering not many folks take advantage of the price. It’s a great non-touristy thing to do in NYC during your next trip.
Come early. Seriously. The crowds hit hard by noon.
Make sure to swing by Four Freedoms Park on the island (it’s beautiful) and rest your legs on the many benches provided. Visiting during the spring makes the trip more memorable thanks to the abundant blossoming cherry trees that make the island feel like a magical sanctuary.
#19. Explore Arthur Avenue (the real Little Italy)
Explore the lesser-known, but surprisingly larger, Little Italy in the Bronx known as Belmont, particularly Arthur Avenue. A spot most people miss in NYC, it has more Italian restaurants, cafes, and stores than Manhattan’s Little Italy. Locals and restaurants citywide come here for authentic, fresh ingredients. Head to the Arthur Avenue Retail Market for an old-country feel, savor a meal at Zero Otto Novo, and don’t forget to grab some cannolis at Gino’s Pastry Shop before you go!
#18. Shop the Local Farmers Markets
Home to 48 farmers markets throughout the Big Apple, there is not shortage of fresh treats to be had. One of the most it is to swing by a local farmers market and pick up a goody for yourself.
Expect to find vendors selling jewelry, food, clothes and so much more. One of the best year-round markets is Grand Bazaar, located on the Upper West Side. Every Sunday from 10 AM to 5 PM the Upper West Side welcomes hundreds of vendors to open up shop and sell their goods. Another great market is the Union Square Greenmarket that runs every Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday, year-round. The market hours are 8 AM to 6 PM.
Fair warning — When the holiday season rolls around typically the markets get rather crowded with tourists. In an effort to keep this list as the best non-touristy things to do in NYC I highly encourage you to visit markets during the off-season.
#17. Get drinks on the MET Rooftop
Established in 1870, the Metropolitan Museum of Art (The Met) is renowned as NYC’s top museum. Boasting over 2 million artworks spanning 5,000+ years, it’s the largest in the U.S. and fifth largest globally. With an average of 6 million annual visitors, it’s NYC’s most frequented museum.
Here’s a local tip. Experience a unique NYC activity by heading to the Cantor Rooftop Garden for a cocktail. This open-to-the-public rooftop bar offers stunning views of Central Park, accessible with standard admission. Each spring, the museum adorns the rooftop with new exhibits, and you can also purchase snacks or drinks to enjoy (sunset visits are highly recommended).
#16. Visit Coney Island
Coney Island’s famed amusement parks and beaches are hot commodities during New York City’s summer months. You could spend all day here eating fried foods and riding all the rides and still be itching for more. But since Coney Island is about an hour away from Midtown (on the subway) not that many folks make the trek. That why we consider going to Coney Island for the day one of the more it.
#15. Check out the birth place of Theodore Roosevelt
I bet you weren’t expecting to see the birth place of a president on a list of it!
Theodore Roosevelt was born in a townhouse located at 28th E. 20th Street on October 27, 1858. His family lived in this home until 1872, which means Teddy was raised in this house from birth to 14 years old. Considering Theodore Roosevelt was the first U.S. president to be born in New York City, it’s no wonder why this important building is deemed a National Historic Site.
Address. 28 E 20th St, New York, NY 10003
#14. Experience Sleep No More
Website. Sleep No More
Neighborhood. Chelsea
Location. 530 W 27th St, New York, NY 10001
Located inside the McKittrick Hotel, Sleep No More is an immersive theatrical performance of Shakespeare’s MacBeth that takes place on five different levels of a 1930’s hotel.
Being immersed in the artistic vision and talent, even though you won’t be acting yourself, is one of the most unique things to do in New York City. The meticulous attention to detail in the sets, costumes, and props along with the phenomenal acting is everything you’d want from an experience like this and more!
Local’s Tip. Since this among the best non-touristy things to do in NYC, tickets can go fast. Purchase tickets in advance here.
#13. Go Bowling at Brooklyn Bowl
Website. Brooklyn Bowl
Neighborhood. Williamsburg
Location. 61 Wythe Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11211
Is it a bowling alley? Could it be a concert venue? Possibly a restaurant? Or is it all three of those things perfectly blended together creating one of the most it?
Regardless of what you classify the Brooklyn Bowl as, one things for sure. you’re going to have a hell of a time! If the venue is still a tad confusing to you, check out this virtual tour of the place and hopefully it’ll answer any questions you have. For shows and events check the calendar ahead of time to see if there is a cover charge that night.
#12. Go to a Jazz Show
Jazz clubs in New York City are hallowed grounds. There are historic venues that have been graced by some of the world’s all time greats. Additionally, there are newcomers to the scene who help keep the genre fresh. New York City doesn’t half-ass anything and jazz clubs are not about to be the exception. One of the most it is to make reservations at a jazz club and enjoy a romantic night of live music.
Further Reading.Need recommendations on which jazz clubs are worth it? Check out 15 Soothing Jazz Clubs in New York City You Won’t Soon Forget!
#11. Play Some Shuffleboard
Website. Cellar Dog
Neighborhood. West Village
Location. 75 Christopher St, New York, NY 10014, United States
Cellar Dog, a spacious underground venue, offers over a dozen nostalgic games for a trip down memory lane. From billiards to chess, it’s a laid-back spot where you’ll connect with lively locals and make new friends. Cap off your night uniquely in NYC by enjoying games and a live jazz show at Cellar Dog.
They exclusively serve beers, creating a vibrant atmosphere. The jazz tunes are a highlight, providing beautiful entertainment while you wait for a game. There’s a $5 cover charge on weekdays, rising to $10 on weekends.
#10. Wander Industry City
Comprised of 16 buildings across 35 acres, Industry City sits on the Brooklyn waterfront located in Sunset Park. The large industrial space was established back in the 1890’s and the space was used for manufacturing and distributing.
Chock-full of events, eateries and shops, Industry City has it all. You can spend hours getting lost, roaming from place to place and still barely scratch the surface. In between the buildings you’ll find colorful courtyards decorated with whatever season they’re in. The set up makes the perfect backdrop for photos.
Pro tip. The best times to visit Industry City is during fall when the halloween decorations flood the place or during the winter when the ice rink is up.
#9. Try Your Hand at Axe Throwing
Website. Hatchets & Hops
Neighborhood. Williamsburg
Location. 98 N 11th St, Brooklyn, NY 11249, United States
Whether you’re just trying to impress a date or you need to let off some steam, one of the most unique things to do in NYC is to throw some axes. And yes, it’s just as therapeutic as it sounds! At Hatchets & Hops folks can enjoy one of the bar scene while literally chucking axes at targets.
I suppose in retrospect mixing booze and sharp weapons sounds a tad dangerous… but Hatchets & Hops does a great job at creating a safe environment. The bar sticks to beer and cider and leaves the liquor for “throwing axes in the woods” — their words not mine.
Oh and not to mention there is a highly trained instructor hanging out with you the whole time. Between the instructor and the cages that surround the targets safety is paramount when you’re enjoying one of the best non-touristy things to do in NYC.
#8. Soak in the City Skyline at Pier 57
Located right beside Little Island in Chelsea, Pier 57 is a free rooftop park that offers amazing views of Manhattan. To discover a park that generates relatively little traffic and spend some time enjoying the benefits is one of the best non-touristy things to do in NYC.
You’ll have views of the Empire State Building, The Edge in Hudson Yards and the lower Manhattan skyline. Pack a meal (or shop the newly opened food hall attached below the park), grab a friend and enjoy one of the most unique things to do in NYC.
#7. Check out a new-to-you Museum
We briefly touched on the MET earlier but there are a handful of other museums in New York City that don’t struggle drawing in crowds. The MOMA, Natural Museum of History and the MET are all very popular museums (rightfully so) but that also mean large crowds.
If you’re searching for non-touristy things to do in NYC I suggest visiting a museum that is frequented by locals more so than visitors. New York City is home to over 80 museums, 30+ of which are in Manhattan alone! There’s no reason you shouldn’t be able to find a museum that interests you.
If at all helpful, here is a quick round-up of some great museums everyone should add to their list of unique things to do in NYC.
- Tenement Museum | The 5-story Tenement Museum is comprised of two historic buildings dating back to 1863. These buildings were home to an estimated 15,000 immigrants from 20 nations between 1863 and 1935.
- The Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum | Home to a remarkable collection of military vessels of the sea and sky, the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum is considered one of the 10 best aviation museums in the world.
- The Morgan Library & Museum | The Morgan Library & Museum allows visitors to step inside the private library of J.P. Morgan. The library is quipped with three floors of metal-enclosed walnut bookshelves, chock full of rare books.
- New York Transit Museum | Dating back to 1904, New York City’s robust transportation system is one of the busiest and oldest in the world. Thankfully, visitors can take a walk down memory lane and explore vintage subway cars parked in a decommissioned subway station.
Have more time? Check out 15 Exciting Museums in New York City (& What to See at Each).
#6. Trapeze in the Park
Where Battery Park ends, Hudson River Park begins and stretches all the way to 59th Street. Not only does this lively NYC park span 550 acres. But it hugs the Hudson River and offers spectacular waterfront views. In fact, more than 400 acres of Hudson River Park is located on piers that stretch over the water.
If you’re in an adventurous mood, and looking for more unique things to do in NYC may I suggest trying your hand at trapeze? Because there is, indeed, a trapeze school that overlooks the Hudson River. I mean, which other NYC park offers trapeze?
#5. Walk the Manhattan Bridge
While the Brooklyn Bridge steals the spotlight, let’s talk about the lesser-known Manhattan Bridge. Construction began in 1901 and the bridge was officially put to use in 1909. Clocking in at over 6,000 feet long (about 1.3 miles) the Manhattan Bridge is a suspension bridge that connects New York City and downtown Brooklyn.
Crossing the Manhattan Bridge is a top non-touristy activity, offering epic views often enjoyed without the crowds of its famous counterpart. Though less aesthetically pleasing, its breathtaking views make it a must-do in NYC.
#4. Explore Governors Island
A quick 10-minute ferry ride from lower Manhattan, Governor’s Island offers a peaceful escape from NYC’s hustle. While there’s a $2 round-trip fee for adults, the island is rich in history, dating back to the Revolutionary War. Explore Fort Jay and Castle Williams, managed by the National Park Service.
During my first visit, I spent four hours discovering green spaces, observing picnickers, and climbing a rock outcropping for stunning views of NYC and the Statue of Liberty. Whether exploring history or tanning on a summer day, it’s one of the best non-touristy experiences in NYC.
#7. Visit the Green-Wood Cemetery
Mentioning a cemetery might sound morbid for a list of unique things to do in NYC, but Green-Wood Cemetery is truly distinctive. Spanning 478 acres, it has unparalleled spring and fall colors, providing a serene escape from city noise.
Plus, there’s a fascinating 25-year installation called “Here Lie the Secrets of the Visitors of Green-Wood Cemetery,” where you can write and bury your most intimate secrets. It’s one of the most exciting and unique experiences in NYC.
#3. See Shakespeare in the Park
Date. 2024 TBD
For a unique summer experience in NYC, grab tickets to Shakespeare in the Park hosted by The Public Theater. With over 60 years of free Shakespeare plays, the 1,800-seat Delacorte Theater in Central Park is the stage. Tickets are in high demand, requiring same-day arrival at theater.
The professional-level productions cater to all ages and interests, making it a sought-after event. Arrive early for a chance at tickets or try the stand-by option, distributed at noon performance days. It’s one of the most unique things to do in NYC.
#1. Wander the MET Cloisters
Dreamt of touring a medieval castle without having to leave NYC? Visit the Met Cloisters—an extension of the Metropolitan Museum of Art dedicated to Romanesque and Gothic periods. It’s a special experience, especially in spring when courtyards burst with color.
The $30 entry fee is the same as the Met, with New York residents paying what they wish. Located in Fort Tryon Park, it’s a peaceful spot in Washington Heights, perfect for those seeking non-touristy things to do in NYC without the crowds.
Tips for Visiting New York City (like a local)
Treat the sidewalk like a highway
Nothing bothers a New Yorker more than a person that stops smack-dab in the middle of the sidewalk. It’s inconsiderate and you’re guaranteed to garner eye rolls. If you don’t want to look like a tourist during your visit to NYC, make sure you step to the side of the sidewalk if you need to stop.
Escalator etiquette is a (real) thing
In NYC there’s an efficient way to use the escalator. stand on the right, pass on the left. Those that block passing access are in breach of escalator etiquette and are bound to hear loud sigh directed at them. New Yorkers are quick walkers. We have places to go and people to see and we’ve learned the way the sidewalks and escalators work.
Make an effort to visit at least two boroughs during your trip to New York City
Something a lot of folks don’t realize is that New York City is comprised of five separate boroughs. Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, the Bronx and Staten Island. Make sure you explore more than just Manhattan if you’re looking for unique things to do in NYC.
Non-Touristy Things to Do New York City (Post Summary)
In sum, these are the most unique things to do in NYC.
- Wander the MET Cloisters
- Attempt to score tickets to Shakespeare in the Park
- Visit Green-Wood Cemetery
- Explore Governors Island
- Walk the Manhattan Bridge
- Trapeze in the Park
- Check out a new Museum
- Soak in the city skyline at Pier 57
- Show off your skills with axe throwing
- Wander Industry City
- Play some shuffleboard
- Go to a jazz show
- Enjoy a round of bowling at Brooklyn Bowl
- Experience theater like never before at Sleep No More
- Check out the birth place of Theodore Roosevelt
- Visit Coney Island
- Get drinks on the MET Rooftop
- Shop the local farmers markets
- Explore Arthur Avenue (the real Little Italy)
- Ride the Roosevelt Island Tram
- Partake in a boozy brunch
- Explore a market
- Go brewery hopping in Brooklyn
- Bike Prospect Park
- Try authentic Asian food in Flushings, Queens
Further Reading for Fun Things to Do in New York City
Romantic Things to Do. 19 (Non-Cheesy) Romantic Things to Do in New York City
Free Things to Do. 20 Unique Free Things to Do in New York City to Keep Your Wallet Happy!
Things to Do at Night. 15 Things to Do in New York City at Night
Best Things to Do in NYC. 30 Best Things to Do in New York City
Famous Spots in NYC Everyone Needs to Try
Best Pizza in NYC. 15 Best Pizza Joints in New York City
Famous Restaurants in NYC. 10 Famous New York City Restaurants Every Local Needs to Try
Mouthwatering Bagels in NYC. 15 BEST Bagels in New York City
Unbelievable Brunch Spots in NYC. 18 Prime Brunch Spots in New York City Worth the (Inevitable) Wait
Map of Non-Touristy Things to Do in NYC
We highlight the top activities and attractions in New York City in this comprehensive guide, from popular landmarks to hidden local favorites.
Absolutely! New York City offers a unique mix of experiences that we detail in this guide.
I hope you enjoyed this guide as much as I enjoyed creating it! Don’t hesitate to reach out with questions – happy to help!
Cheers!
Final Thoughts
That wraps up our guide to Unique Things to Do in New York City. Have a favorite spot we missed?
What would you add to this list?
If you liked this guide, you might also enjoy exploring my other local recommendations.
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