26 Unique Things to Do in New York City (Local's Guide)

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 unique things to do in NYC. You’ll quickly discover the park is mostly filled with locals, walking their dogs and finding reprieve in the quiet.

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 unique things to do in NYC 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.

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 unique things to do in NYC? 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.

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 unique things to do in NYC 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!

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.

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.

Home to 48 farmers markets throughout the Big Apple, there is not shortage of fresh treats to be had. One of the most unique things to do in NYC 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.

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 unique things to do in NYC.

I bet you weren’t expecting to see the birth place of a president on a list of unique things to do in NYC!

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.

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 unique things to do in NYC?

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.

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 unique things to do in NYC is to make reservations at a jazz club and enjoy a romantic night of live music.

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 delightful entertainment while you wait for a game. There’s a $5 cover charge on weekdays, rising to $10 on weekends.

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.

My advice 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.

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.

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.

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).

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.

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.

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 boasts 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.

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 the 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 on performance days. It’s one of the most unique things to do in NYC.

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.