New York knocked me sideways in ways I never expected. Everyone knows the Empire State Building and Central Park, but what blew me away were the moments where the city revealed its true character—like that tiny jazz club in Harlem where locals nodded approvingly at my drink choice, or the bagel shop in Greenpoint where the line said everything.
The best places in New York aren’t on postcards. I spent days wandering through Red Hook, where old warehouses now house art spaces with killer Manhattan views, and got lost in the quiet streets of Forest Hills Gardens that made me question everything I thought I knew about NYC. These 9 New York spots changed me, and I can’t wait to show you why they matter.
Top Must-See Destinations in New York
Looking to uncover New York’s hidden gems? From the artistic haven of The Noguchi Museum to the historic remnants of the Roosevelt Island Smallpox Hospital Ruins, the Empire State offers a plethora of lesser-known destinations waiting to be explored.
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Stroll across the elegant arches of The High Bridge, relax in the secluded greenery of The Elevated Acre, or discover local history at the City Reliquary Museum. Explore the tranquil landscapes of Snug Harbor Cultural Center & Botanical Garden, the vibrant street art of Bushwick Collective, or the hidden waterfalls of Minnewaska State Park Preserve. Whether you’re into art, history, or nature, here are 9 of New York’s best hidden gems!
- Best for Art Lovers: The Noguchi Museum
- Best for History Enthusiasts: Roosevelt Island Smallpox Hospital Ruins
- Best for Scenic Views: The High Bridge
- Best Rooftop Retreat: The Elevated Acre
- Best Quirky Museum: City Reliquary Museum
- Best Botanical Haven: Snug Harbor Cultural Center & Botanical Garden

1. The Noguchi Museum
- 📍 Location: Long Island City, New York, USA
- 🏆 Best For: Art lovers 🎨, sculpture enthusiasts 🪨, quiet thinkers 🤫
- 📸 Top Experiences: Exploring the sculpture garden, viewing Noguchi’s studio pieces, attending First Friday evening events
- 📅 Best Time to Visit: May to September for evening access and garden views 🌅
- 🏨 Where to Stay: Boro Hotel – Industrial‑chic boutique hotel, offering sleek rooms and a trendy vibe
The Noguchi Museum is one of New York City’s most underrated art spaces, tucked into a quiet corner of Long Island City. Founded by Japanese-American sculptor Isamu Noguchi, this museum offers a peaceful contrast to the city’s larger art institutions.
Wander through serene galleries filled with stone and metal works, then head outside to the intimate sculpture garden. It’s never crowded, which makes it a great spot to sit and take it all in. Thoughtful quotes from Noguchi line the walls, adding a reflective tone to the visit.
Hop off the N or W train at Broadway and you’re just a short walk away. Time your visit on the first Friday of the month when the museum opens in the evening for free. The nearby Socrates Sculpture Park is also worth a quick stop if you’re into large-scale public art.

2. The High Bridge
- 📍 Location: Manhattan to The Bronx, New York, USA
- 🏆 Best For: Urban explorers 🚶, photographers 📸, history fans 🏛️
- 📸 Top Experiences: Walking across the bridge, snapping skyline views, exploring Highbridge Park
- 📅 Best Time to Visit: Spring and fall for mild weather and clear skies 🌤️
- 🏨 Where to Stay: Edge Hotel – Bright, modern stay in Washington Heights near the bridge entrance
The High Bridge connects Manhattan and the Bronx with an unexpected touch of old-world charm. Originally built in 1848, it’s the city’s oldest standing bridge and a lesser-known landmark for anyone seeking skyline views without crowds.
Find the Manhattan entrance near West 172nd Street in Washington Heights, then cross over the Harlem River into the Bronx. The bridge’s Romanesque arches and quiet pedestrian path make it feel like a hidden walkway between two different worlds.
Plan your visit around golden hour for some of the best photography angles overlooking the river and skyline. Once you reach the Bronx side, you can head to La Morada for rich mole dishes and community-focused dining. Nearby, the Highbridge Park also has forested trails and views that feel surprisingly remote for New York City.

3. Roosevelt Island Smallpox Hospital Ruins
- 📍 Location: Roosevelt Island, New York, USA
- 🏆 Best For: History buffs 🧱, architecture lovers 🏚️, offbeat explorers 🚡
- 📸 Top Experiences: Riding the tram, exploring Southpoint Park, viewing the ruins at sunset
- 📅 Best Time to Visit: Late spring to early fall for evening strolls and skyline views 🌇
- 🏨 Where to Stay: Graduate Roosevelt Island – Stylish hotel right on the island with views of Midtown Manhattan
The ruins of the old Smallpox Hospital on Roosevelt Island are haunting, beautiful, and surprisingly easy to reach from Midtown. Sitting at the island’s southern tip, the Gothic Revival structure dates back to the 1850s and is one of New York’s most dramatic historic remnants.
Take the Roosevelt Island Tramway from East 60th Street and glide over the East River. Once you land, it’s a scenic 10-minute walk through Southpoint Park to the ruins. The site is lit at night, casting dramatic shadows that bring out the eerie beauty of the stonework.
Bring snacks or a picnic and enjoy views of the United Nations and Midtown skyline from the park benches nearby. The combination of history, isolation, and stunning scenery makes this one of the most unique public spaces in the city.
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4. The Cloisters
- 📍 Location: Washington Heights, Manhattan, New York, USA
- 🏆 Best For: Medieval art lovers 🏰, architecture fans 🧱, peaceful museumgoers 🧘
- 📸 Top Experiences: Viewing the Unicorn Tapestries, strolling through the gardens, exploring the medieval chapels
- 📅 Best Time to Visit: Late spring to early fall for lush gardens and outdoor views 🌿
- 🏨 Where to Stay: Radio Hotel – Colorful and convenient stay in Washington Heights near Fort Tryon Park
The Cloisters feels like a portal to medieval Europe, right in the middle of Manhattan. Operated by The Met, this museum sits within Fort Tryon Park and is built from real European monastic structures brought over stone by stone.
Inside, you’ll find dramatic archways, stained glass windows, and iconic pieces like the Unicorn Tapestries. The gardens overlook the Hudson River, making it one of the most peaceful museum settings in the city. It’s less crowded than downtown museums and just as impressive.
Take the A train to 190th Street, then follow signs through the park to the museum entrance. After your visit, grab lunch or coffee at the amazing food spots tucked inside the same park. It’s a full afternoon escape that blends history, art, and nature without ever leaving the city.
- Read next: Hidden Gems in Europe to Visit

5. The Elevated Acre
- 📍 Location: Financial District, Manhattan, New York, USA
- 🏆 Best For: Urban picnic-goers 🧺, skyline seekers 🏙️, quiet lunch breakers ☕
- 📸 Top Experiences: Relaxing on the lawn, watching sunset over the harbor, spotting helicopters from the pier
- 📅 Best Time to Visit: Late afternoon on weekdays for golden hour lighting and peaceful vibes 🌇
- 🏨 Where to Stay: Hilton Garden Inn NYC Financial Center – Central stay steps from the East River and Battery Park
The Elevated Acre is a hidden rooftop park tucked above the Financial District. Located at 55 Water Street, this raised plaza offers a grassy lawn, garden walkways, and wide-open views of the harbor that feel miles away from downtown’s noise.
Look for the escalator entrance near the building’s base. Once you’re up, you’ll find Brazilian hardwood decking, modern landscaping, and plenty of quiet corners to unwind. It’s popular with office workers during lunch but nearly empty on evenings and weekends.
You can easily grab coffee from nearby shops or pack snacks to enjoy while watching ferries cruise across the East River. Benches line the edges of the space, offering peaceful places to read, eat, or simply enjoy the skyline. The calm setting makes it feel like a private escape above the busy city below.

6. City Reliquary Museum
- 📍 Location: Williamsburg, Brooklyn, New York, USA
- 🏆 Best For: Quirky museum fans 🏺, NYC history buffs 🗽, curious wanderers 🕵️♀️
- 📸 Top Experiences: Seeing vintage subway tokens, exploring odd collections, visiting nearby retro diners
- 📅 Best Time to Visit: Weekends for quiet visits and time to explore the neighborhood 🛍️
- 🏨 Where to Stay: Pod Brooklyn – Hip, compact stay with garden courtyards in Williamsburg
The City Reliquary Museum is small but packed with personality, offering a snapshot of New York’s offbeat history. Tucked into a corner storefront on Metropolitan Avenue, it’s easy to miss unless you’re looking for it. Inside, you’ll find unexpected treasures like soil samples from all five boroughs, Statue of Liberty memorabilia, and fragments of old landmarks.
It began as a window display in the founder’s apartment before evolving into this tiny museum with a big heart. Each item has a backstory, and many displays celebrate the everyday objects that define New York’s past.
After your visit, walk a few blocks to grab brunch at a local diner inside a restored 1920s railcar. The neighborhood vibe adds to the charm. If you love museums that surprise you at every turn, this one is a must-see stop in Brooklyn.

7. Green-Wood Cemetery
- 📍 Location: Brooklyn, New York, USA
- 🏆 Best For: Nature walkers 🌳, architecture lovers 🏛️, local history fans ⚰️
- 📸 Top Experiences: Climbing Battle Hill, spotting parakeet nests, exploring ornate mausoleums
- 📅 Best Time to Visit: Spring and fall for flowers, fall foliage, and cool walking weather 🍂
- 🏨 Where to Stay: Hotel Le Bleu – Contemporary hotel with views near Park Slope and Prospect Park
Green-Wood Cemetery is far more than a burial ground. It’s one of New York’s most underrated green spaces, filled with winding paths, historic tombs, and peaceful hills that feel like a park. Founded in 1838, it inspired the creation of both Central Park and Prospect Park.
The Gothic entrance gates on 25th Street and 5th Avenue lead you into acres of trees, ponds, and ornate monuments. Climb Battle Hill for sweeping skyline views or walk the quiet lanes where New Yorkers once picnicked in the Victorian era.
Monk parakeets famously nest in the spires above the gate, adding a quirky layer to your visit. It’s accessible by R train at 25th Street station, and just outside the gates, you’ll find great food spots like Baked, a local bakery that’s perfect for a snack before or after your walk. Bring good shoes and take your time exploring.

8. Snug Harbor Cultural Center & Botanical Garden
- 📍 Location: Staten Island, New York, USA
- 🏆 Best For: Garden lovers 🌺, cultural explorers 🎭, peaceful day-trippers 🚶♂️
- 📸 Top Experiences: Visiting the Chinese Scholar’s Garden, strolling through heritage buildings, dining at Enoteca Maria
- 📅 Best Time to Visit: April to October for blooming gardens and active events schedule 🌸
- 🏨 Where to Stay: Hampton Inn & Suites Staten Island – Comfortable hotel with free ferry shuttle access
Snug Harbor Cultural Center & Botanical Garden feels like a quiet cultural world of its own tucked away on Staten Island. Once a home for retired sailors, it now houses museums, historic architecture, and several themed gardens.
The standout here is the Chinese Scholar’s Garden, one of the few authentic ones outside China, with moon gates, pavilions, and koi ponds. You can also explore the Staten Island Museum, check out rotating exhibits, or wander the peaceful walking paths lined with massive trees and Greek Revival buildings.
To get there, take the Staten Island Ferry from Manhattan, then hop on the S40 bus. It’s an easy and scenic trip that most tourists overlook. End your day with a meal at Enoteca Maria, where grandmothers from around the world take turns cooking traditional meals. The whole visit feels like a hidden chapter of New York.
- Read next: 20 Best Places to Travel with Friends

9. New York Transit Museum
- 📍 Location: Downtown Brooklyn, New York, USA
- 🏆 Best For: Transit nerds 🚇, kids and families 👨👩👧, vintage lovers 🕰️
- 📸 Top Experiences: Sitting in retro subway cars, reading vintage ads, exploring old turnstiles
- 📅 Best Time to Visit: Weekdays to avoid field trips and larger crowds 📆
- 🏨 Where to Stay: NU Hotel Brooklyn – Stylish boutique stay within walking distance of the museum
The New York Transit Museum is built inside a decommissioned subway station, which makes it feel like a real-time portal into the past. Located in Downtown Brooklyn, this museum showcases New York’s transit history using restored subway cars, old buses, turnstiles, and plenty of quirky memorabilia.
You can walk through cars from every era of the subway system, complete with vintage rattan seats and old-school ads. It’s interactive, photo-friendly, and surprisingly fun even if you’re not a train enthusiast.
It’s easy to get there—just a short walk from the 2, 3, 4, 5, A, C, or F trains. After your visit, grab a slice at nearby Sottocasa, where wood-fired Neapolitan pizza is served fresh. The museum also hosts special events and temporary exhibits that make each visit unique. Kids love it, but so do adults who appreciate a good blast from the past.
- Read next: 35 Best Places to Visit on the East Coast(USA)
- You may also like: 33 Amazing Hidden Vacation Spots in the US

Frequently asked questions (FAQs) about hidden gems in New York
New York City is an intimidating and often confusing place. Before setting out to visit some of these hidden gems in New York, it’s good to be prepared. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about hidden gems in New York, and their answers.
How do I find local hidden gems in New York?
Finding local hidden gems in New York City, with its dizzying array of attractions, can be a thrilling adventure. Here’s a guide to uncovering the city’s secret spots and lesser-known treasures:
Utilize Online Resources and Apps: Countless blogs, websites, and social media pages are dedicated to revealing New York City’s secrets. Sites like Atlas Obscura and Time Out New York, or apps like Detour or Hidden NYC, are excellent resources.
Join Guided Tours: Opt for a tour focused on a specific neighborhood or theme, like food, history, or street art. This is a fantastic way to discover unique spots and get insider knowledge from local guides.
Visit Local Bookstores and Libraries: New York City’s bookstores and libraries often have free pamphlets about the city’s lesser-known attractions. The New York Public Library hosts a multitude of city-related resources as well.
Connect with Locals: New Yorkers are a wealth of knowledge about their city. Attend local events, visit community centers, or strike up a conversation in a coffee shop. You might also consider social media groups or forums dedicated to NYC life.
Explore on Foot or Bike: The best way to find hidden gems is often by simply wandering. Try exploring a new neighborhood on foot or by bike, keeping your eyes open for anything interesting.
Visit Museums and Cultural Institutions: Beyond their main exhibits, many have lesser-known collections or programs. These can provide a unique perspective on the city.
Check Out Neighborhood Festivals and Events: Local gatherings are an excellent way to learn about the distinct culture of each neighborhood. They’re also a great way to discover places you might not otherwise encounter.
What is the No. 1 attraction in New York?
One of the most popular attractions in New York – indeed, in the United States – is the Statue of Liberty. Towering over the waters of New York Harbor, this colossal symbol of freedom and democracy is a must-see.
Gifted by France to the United States in 1886, the statue represents Libertas, the Roman goddess of freedom, holding a torch in her right hand and a tabula ansata (a tablet evoking the law) in her left, inscribed with the date of the American Declaration of Independence. A broken chain lies at her feet, symbolizing liberation.
Accessible by ferry from Battery Park in Manhattan, a trip to the statue includes access to Liberty Island and Ellis Island. The latter notably houses the poignant Ellis Island Immigration Museum. Visitors can explore the islands, enjoy the panoramic views of the Manhattan skyline, and for those who plan ahead, even ascend to the statue’s crown for an unparalleled view.
What is the most iconic New York place?
Perhaps no place is more iconic in New York City than Times Square. Often referred to as “The Crossroads of the World” or “The Heart of The World,” this bustling intersection at the junction of Broadway and Seventh Avenue is a sensory overload of towering digital billboards, colossal skyscrapers, and vibrant crowds.
Times Square is named after The New York Times, which moved its headquarters to the Times Building (now One Times Square) in 1904. It’s also the site of the annual New Year’s Eve ball drop, a tradition dating back to 1907, which draws crowds of revelers from around the world.
But Times Square is more than just its lights and events. It is also the hub of the Broadway Theater District. Here you’ll find many of the city’s renowned theatres; it’s a virtual mecca for theater lovers. Within its boundaries are many other attractions, including Madame Tussauds New York, Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Odditorium, and the expansive M&M’s World.
Eateries and shops abound, from chain restaurants and flagship retail stores to more unique offerings. Pedestrian plazas filled with tables and chairs offer a spot to take a break and soak in the energy.
Day or night, Times Square is a spectacle to behold. Its non-stop energy, iconic imagery, and status as a cultural hub make it not just a symbol of New York City, but a symbol of America to the rest of the world. It’s a place where art, commerce, and entertainment converge, creating a uniquely New York experience that’s not to be missed.
Where are the ‘tiny doors’ in NYC?
Scattered throughout New York City are an array of enchanting, tiny doors. These whimsical creations, hidden in plain sight, provide a delightful surprise for those observant enough to spot them.
One of the most famous tiny doors in New York City is the “Fairy Door” in Central Park. It is located at the base of a tree near Conservatory Water, not far from the Alice in Wonderland statue. This charming little door opens to reveal a miniature, empty room, encouraging the imagination to run wild with tales of fairy inhabitants.
Brooklyn also plays host to an assortment of tiny doors, particularly in neighborhoods known for their vibrant arts scene. In DUMBO (Down Under the Manhattan Bridge), keep an eye out for the tiny doors nestled in the archways of the Manhattan Bridge, adding a dash of magic to this urban landscape. Similarly, the neighborhood of Prospect Heights has been known to harbor these delightful installations.
However, it’s important to note that these tiny doors are ephemeral and elusive by nature. Many are the works of anonymous artists or local residents, and they may appear and disappear without notice. Furthermore, some of these doors are part of temporary art installations or projects, meaning their lifespan in the city may be short-lived.
Embarking on a quest to find these tiny doors offers an alternative way to explore the city, inviting you to pay closer attention to your surroundings, appreciate the little things, and embrace the unexpected. So, keep your eyes peeled and let the magic of New York City’s tiny doors transform your next stroll into an urban treasure hunt.

Are the hidden gems in New York accessible by public transportation?
Absolutely. One of the many virtues of New York City is its comprehensive public transportation network. This helps make the city’s hidden gems easily accessible to both residents and visitors. The Metropolitan Transportation Authority’s extensive subway and bus system crisscross the city. It connects Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, the Bronx, and Staten Island.
The Noguchi Museum and Roosevelt Island Smallpox Hospital Ruins, located in Queens, are accessible via subway lines F and N/W respectively. To reach The High Bridge in Manhattan, take the A, C, or 1 subway lines. The Elevated Acre in the Financial District is a short walk from several subway lines as well.
For the City Reliquary Museum in Brooklyn, use the L subway line. Meanwhile, the New York Transit Museum is also in Brooklyn, and can be reached via the 2, 3, 4, or 5 lines. Green-Wood Cemetery is accessible through the R line.
The Cloisters in Upper Manhattan is reachable via the A subway line, while Staten Island’s Snug Harbor Cultural Center & Botanical Garden is a short bus ride away from the Staten Island Ferry Terminal.
Whether you’re a savvy straphanger or new to the city, you’ll find that New York’s hidden gems are well within your reach,
Do these hidden gems in New York have entrance fees or are they free?
The entrance fees for these hidden gems in New York vary, with some offering free admission and others charging a modest fee.
The Elevated Acre and High Bridge are public spaces, offering free access to everyone. Green-Wood Cemetery, also free, welcomes donations to help preserve its grounds and continue its programming.
The Noguchi Museum normally charges admission. However, it offers Pay What You Wish hours every first Friday of the month. Similarly, The Cloisters, a part of The Metropolitan Museum of Art, charges an entrance fee. However, it offers free access to New York State residents and NY, NJ, and CT students.
Roosevelt Island Smallpox Hospital Ruins can be viewed for free from the outside. For the City Reliquary Museum, there’s a suggested donation, while the New York Transit Museum charges an admission fee. Lastly, the Snug Harbor Cultural Center & Botanical Garden has free access to the grounds, but certain attractions within the center may require a ticket.
It’s always recommended to check the official websites for the most current information regarding hours and admission fees. Remember, many of these institutions rely on these fees for upkeep and programming, so your contribution directly supports their mission.
Are these hidden gems open year-round? If not, when are they open?
Most of these hidden gems in New York operate year-round, but their hours can vary depending on the season or specific exhibits. I always recommend checking their official websites for the most current information.
The Elevated Acre and High Bridge are open to the public year-round, weather permitting. The Noguchi Museum, The Cloisters, City Reliquary Museum, and New York Transit Museum are also open year-round, but with varying hours and days of operation. Green-Wood Cemetery is open every day of the year, though the hours shift slightly with the seasons.
The Snug Harbor Cultural Center & Botanical Garden is open year-round, but individual attractions within it may have separate schedules. The Roosevelt Island Smallpox Hospital Ruins, while viewable from the outside throughout the year, does not offer interior tours.
Can these hidden gems in New York be visited in a single day?
Due to their geographical distribution, it’s best to enjoy the hidden gems on this list over several days. Attempting to visit all in a single day would be quite an undertaking. More importantly, it would not allow for the immersive experience that each unique site offers.
A better approach might be to plan your visit by area. You can explore hidden gems within the same or neighboring boroughs on the same day. For instance, you could visit The Noguchi Museum and Roosevelt Island Smallpox Hospital Ruins on one day, then The High Bridge and The Cloisters on another.

What can you do in NYC without wasting money?
New York City offers plenty of activities that are either free or very affordable. Here are some things you can do in NYC without breaking the bank:
- Central Park: Wander around, have a picnic, or simply relax and people-watch.
- Staten Island Ferry: Offers a great view of the Statue of Liberty and the Manhattan skyline, and it’s free!
- Walk the High Line: An elevated urban park built on a historic freight rail line on Manhattan’s West Side.
- Brooklyn Bridge: Walk or bike across for iconic views of the city.
- Times Square: Just walking around and soaking in the atmosphere can be an experience.
- Free Museum Days: Many NYC museums offer free or “pay-what-you-wish” days/times.
- Visit Grand Central Terminal: Marvel at its architectural beauty and history.
- Public Libraries: The New York Public Library, especially the Stephen A. Schwarzman Building, is a sight to behold.
- Free Outdoor Concerts & Shows: Especially in the summer, places like Central Park host free performances.
- Window Shop: Wander around areas like Fifth Avenue or SoHo.
Are these hidden gems suitable for children and/or seniors?
Absolutely. The hidden gems in New York offer a wide array of experiences suitable for visitors of all ages. Interactive exhibits at places like the New York Transit Museum make for a fun and educational outing for children. The serene environments of The Elevated Acre or Green-Wood Cemetery, on the other hand, are perfect for those seeking a more tranquil experience.
The accessibility of these sites can vary. For that reason, I suggest checking ahead if you have specific mobility considerations. For instance, the High Bridge is wheelchair accessible, as are the Noguchi Museum and New York Transit Museum. The Cloisters and Snug Harbor Cultural Center & Botanical Garden, while generally accessible, do have some areas with stairs.
Overall, these hidden gems can provide enriching experiences for children’s curious minds, adults’ interest in history, culture, and nature, and seniors’ appreciation for quiet beauty and nostalgia. As with any outing, plan your visit according to the specific interests and needs of your group.
How do I find local hidden gems?
Finding local hidden gems often requires a mix of research, local interaction, and an adventurous spirit. Here’s a guide to uncover those less-traveled spots:
- Talk to Locals: Often, the best recommendations come from people who live in the area. They’ll know the places that aren’t always highlighted in tourist guides.
- Visit Local Cafes & Eateries: Engage with the staff or patrons. These are often great places to pick up on local tips.
- Stay in Local Accommodations: Choose locally-owned accommodations like B&Bs, guesthouses, or Airbnb, where hosts can give personal recommendations.
- Local Blogs & Websites: Search for bloggers or writers who focus on that particular destination. They’ll often have insights into lesser-known spots.
- Social Media: Use platforms like Instagram, TikTok, or Twitter. Search using location tags or local hashtags to discover hidden spots.
- Attend Local Events or Festivals: These can provide unique insights into the local culture and lead to undiscovered gems.
- Avoid Peak Tourist Times: Visit popular spots during off-peak hours to experience them without the crowds.
- Walking Tours: Some cities offer “alternative” or “local” walking tours that focus on off-the-beaten-path attractions.
- Visit Local Markets: They’re not only for shopping but also a great way to immerse yourself in local life and perhaps find out about lesser-known spots.
- Travel Books & Magazines: While mainstream guides cover popular spots, they often also mention lesser-visited places.
Are there guided tours available at these New York hidden gems?
Yes, Several of these hidden gems in New York offer guided tours. These are a great way of enriching your understanding and appreciation of the city’s unique locations.
At the Noguchi Museum, admission includes public tours. The New York Transit Museum offers guided tours for an additional fee, providing deeper insights into the city’s transportation history. Guided tours of The Cloisters are available as part of your admission. These provide an expert perspective on the museum’s vast collection.
Green-Wood Cemetery provides a variety of guided walking and trolley tours that explore the historical and architectural highlights of this beautiful space. For those who prefer to explore at their own pace, self-guided tour maps are also available. Similarly, Snug Harbor Cultural Center & Botanical Garden offers both guided and self-guided tour options.
While the City Reliquary Museum does not offer guided tours, its exhibits are thoughtfully curated and easy to navigate independently. Since the High Bridge and the Elevated Acre are public spaces, you can explore them all on your own. Informative signage is available throughout,
What dining options are available at or near these hidden gems?
The Big Apple’s culinary scene is as diverse as its culture. As such, you’ll find a variety of dining options near each of these hidden gems in New York.
Near the Noguchi Museum in Long Island City, you’ll find an assortment of trendy cafes and restaurants. In the vicinity of the High Bridge in Washington Heights, you’ll come across Dominican, Mexican, and other diverse cuisines.
The Cloisters is located within Fort Tryon Park, which has a cafe and is also near several restaurants in Hudson Heights. Also, a wealth of dining options catering to the lunchtime crowd surround the Elevated Acre in the heart of the Financial District.
The City Reliquary Museum is located in Williamsburg. This neighborhood is a foodie haven, known for its innovative eateries. Likewise, Downtown Brooklyn near the New York Transit Museum offers a range of fast-casual to high-end dining options.
On Staten Island, the Snug Harbor Cultural Center & Botanical Garden has a cafe on-site and is also close to several local restaurants. Meanwhile, Green-Wood Cemetery’s location in Brooklyn allows for easy access to a variety of culinary delights from around the world.

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