Anyone looking for attractions to visit in New York City is going to be spoiled for choice. From the beautiful Statue of Liberty to the dazzle of Times Square, the Big Apple is full of famous landmarks. At the same time, though, some of the best things to see and do are the least well-known. Here are my picks for the best hidden gems in New York.
New York City isn’t just one of the best places to visit in the US. It’s also one most unique places to visit in the US. Though known worldwide for its iconic landmarks, beyond the blinding lights and tourist crowds lies an alternative New York. It is rich in undiscovered treasures waiting to be explored. Hidden gems, scattered throughout the city’s eclectic neighborhoods, offer an authentic experience, away from more conventional attractions.
This guide seeks to illuminate these well-kept secrets and hidden vacation spots, encouraging seasoned travelers and first-time visitors alike to navigate the city less like a tourist and more like a local. Discovering hidden gems in New York presents a unique opportunity to see beyond the city’s glossy exterior, experience its vibrant culture, and understand its layered history. Venture off the beaten path, bypass the bustling tourist crowds, and prepare to uncover a side of New York City that remains elusive even to many of its residents.
Quick tip on how to find cheap flights to New York
Looking for cheap flights to New York City? Before diving into the hidden gems in New York, I want to share a quick tip on saving money on airfare.
I’ve used Scott’s Cheap Flights (now called Going) for over three years to get amazing flight deals. All you have to do is enter your home airport and where you want to go. From there, they’ll send mistake fares and other ridiculously cheap flight deals to top-rated destinations. And the best part? It’s 100% FREE! In 2022, I saved thousands of dollars just from their email alerts.
There’s a free and a premium version – the free one has everything you’ll need if you’re an occasional traveler. However, if you travel a lot every year, it’s worth upgrading to the paid version for $49 annually. In my experience, you’ll get your money back after finding just one discounted flight! I recommend signing up for the free trial (you can cancel anytime) to try it yourself. And if you like it, be sure to use my coupon code JON20 to save 20%!
Hidden gems in New York: 9 attractions off the beaten path
Looking to explore the road not taken? In the following list, you’ll find some of the most unique and enriching hidden gems in New York. From one-of-a-kind museums to unforgettable historic sites, it goes to show why New York City is one of the best places to visit with friends and family.
1. The Noguchi Museum
Tucked away in the quiet neighborhood of Long Island City, the Noguchi Museum offers a serene escape from the city’s chaos. This museum is dedicated to the works of Japanese-American sculptor Isamu Noguchi. It stands as an inspiring testament to the artist’s life and legacy. As you step into the museum’s sun-drenched, airy galleries, you are greeted by a thoughtfully curated collection of Noguchi’s works. Ranging from his abstract sculptures to his revolutionary stage designs, the museum is a showcase of his multi-faceted creativity.
Beyond the museum’s indoor exhibits, an enchanting sculpture garden offers an oasis of tranquility. Amid the bamboo groves and flowing water, Noguchi’s works stand in a profound dialogue with nature, inviting contemplation and quiet admiration. Visiting the Noguchi Museum is not merely about viewing art. It’s an immersive cultural experience that sparks introspection and a deeper appreciation for the harmony between art and its surroundings.
The museum’s status as one of the lesser known hidden gems in New York bestows it with a sense of exclusivity. In turn, you can absorb the works without the distraction of noisy crowds. Indulge in this rare opportunity to witness the depth of Noguchi’s talent. Let his unique artistic vision inspire your understanding of New York’s diverse cultural landscape.
2. The High Bridge
New York City’s oldest standing bridge, the High Bridge, is an architectural marvel often overlooked by tourists. This pedestrian walkway, suspended high above the Harlem River, offers an unrivaled perspective of the cityscape. It was built as part of the Old Croton Aqueduct system. Today, the bridge’s Romanesque arches are a testament to New York’s historical prowess in engineering.
As you tread the pathway lined with original railings, a panoramic view of the Bronx and Manhattan skyline unfurls before your eyes. It showcases the harmonious coexistence of historic buildings with modern high-rises. Away from the city’s noise, you’ll have a peaceful yet stimulating space to soak in the city’s ever-evolving landscape.
The High Bridge is not just a passage across the river but a symbolic connection between two boroughs, each with its unique character and charm. Its location, nestled amidst parks and residential neighborhoods, offers a glimpse into the lives of New Yorkers, far from the commercialized hustle of tourist hotspots.
Add to this the park facilities and the year-round cultural events hosted in its vicinity, the High Bridge is an attractive destination that combines leisure, culture, and history. Altogether, it’s one of the best hidden gems in New York. It’s sure to leave an indelible impression and redefine your New York City experience.
3. Roosevelt Island Smallpox Hospital Ruins
Steeped in history and shrouded in an air of mystery, the Roosevelt Island Smallpox Hospital Ruins offer a unique perspective on New York City’s past. The skeletal remains of this abandoned hospital stand as a hauntingly beautiful testament to the city’s continuous struggle and resilience. Once a beacon of hope for those affected by smallpox, these Gothic Revival-style ruins evoke a sense of eerie calm, providing a stark contrast to the city’s buzzing atmosphere.
From this quiet corner of Roosevelt Island (one of the coolest islands in New York), you’re rewarded with an unparalleled view of Manhattan‘s skyline. It juxtaposes the city’s gleaming present with its poignant past. As you explore this piece of forgotten history, you’ll find an engaging narrative of New York’s evolution. This story isn’t narrated through the glitz and glamour of world-famous landmarks, but rather through NYC’s battles and triumphs.
The Smallpox Hospital Ruins aren’t just about history. They’re about experiencing New York City in an entirely different light. Through its atmospheric allure and historical relevance, the ruins compel you to pause and contemplate the city’s unyielding spirit. You’ll leave this site with a profound appreciation for the Big Apple’s lesser-known stories and hidden depths.
Looking to save BIG on airfare? I recommend signing up for Dollar Flight Club. Thanks to DFC, I saved $5,000+ on travel in 2023…so I couldn’t recommend it more!
4. The Cloisters
In the verdant expanses of Fort Tryon Park, The Cloisters emerge as a sanctum of serenity and art. This branch of the Metropolitan Museum of Art is dedicated to medieval European art and architecture. It’s almost an anomaly amidst the city’s sleek modern skyline, offering a refreshing journey back in time. The museum’s building—a modern reimagining of medieval European monasteries—houses a plethora of medieval artifacts, tapestries, and illuminated manuscripts.
The museum’s meticulously recreated chapels, halls, and gardens immerse you in a bygone era, transporting you thousands of miles away from New York City’s modernity. This immersive experience, coupled with the museum’s stunning views of the Hudson River, provides a perfect retreat from the urban rush, invigorating your senses and stirring your curiosity.
The allure of The Cloisters is the unexpected contrast it provides. It’s an island of medieval tranquility in the midst of a bustling metropolis. It compels you to explore an overlooked era in art history and to revel in the serene beauty of its gardens. A visit to The Cloisters is an escapade into a forgotten world, an experience that promises to enrich your understanding of the city’s cultural fabric.
5. The Elevated Acre
Hidden amidst the towering skyscrapers of the Financial District, the Elevated Acre offers a secret haven of greenery and peace. This rooftop garden, perched above the hustle and bustle of Wall Street, offers an unexpected reprieve in an area known more for its commerce than tranquility. Here, a lush landscape, complete with manicured lawns, vibrant flower beds, and a miniature amphitheater, unfolds against a backdrop of the city’s architectural masterpieces.
From the Elevated Acre, you have an unparalleled view of the East River and the iconic Brooklyn Bridge. It’s a mesmerizing panorama that contrasts nature’s tranquility with the city’s dynamism. This view, whether under the sunny midday sky or the enchanting twilight hues, promises a visual feast that can’t be found amidst the ground-level frenzy.
This green oasis is not just about escape. It’s about experiencing the city’s duality, the calm amidst chaos, to create natural beauty amidst concrete and steel. The Elevated Acre invites you to pause, breathe, and appreciate this often-overlooked facet of New York’s character. Unwinding here, with the city’s skyline at your feet, is an experience that redefines the typical image of New York, leaving an indelible impression of the city’s multifaceted charm.
6. City Reliquary Museum
The City Reliquary Museum, nestled in the heart of Williamsburg, is a tribute to New York City’s past and present. This hidden gem in New York is a love letter to the city, displaying an eccentric assortment of artifacts. Vintage subway tokens and fragments of iconic buildings tell the city’s story in a most unexpected way.
As you navigate through this small yet overflowing museum, you unearth narratives of New York that go beyond the common tourist narrative. You are invited to delve into the quirks and intricacies that make the city what it is—a melting pot of histories, cultures, and stories. More than a museum, this is a living testament to the city’s character, its resilience, and its continual evolution.
What sets the City Reliquary apart is its representation of New York as a city of the people. It paints a vivid picture of everyday life in New York Here, you can peer into the core of the Big Apple, appreciating its past and present through the tangible remnants of its journey. The City Reliquary Museum offers an intimate and personal encounter with the city, making it an essential stop for anyone eager to understand the true spirit of New York.
7. Green-Wood Cemetery
A National Historic Landmark in Brooklyn, Green-Wood Cemetery offers an intriguing blend of history, art, and nature. This expansive cemetery, home to the final resting places of numerous notable figures, is a repository of stories spanning centuries.
As you stroll through the cemetery’s rolling hills and tranquil paths, you encounter an array of artistic monuments, grand mausoleums, and intricate tombstones, each a testament to the individuals who have shaped New York’s history. Among these, the Gothic Revival-style entrance gate and the Civil War Soldiers’ Monument are standout sights, echoing the architectural grandeur of bygone eras.
But Green-Wood is more than a cemetery; it’s a lush, serene sanctuary, dotted with beautiful ponds and thriving with birdlife. It’s a place where history and nature converge, offering a reflective escape from the city’s perpetual motion. Whether you seek to delve into the city’s rich past, admire the artistry of memorial architecture, or simply revel in peaceful solitude, Green-Wood Cemetery caters to all.
Embracing the somber yet serene beauty of Green-Wood encourages a deeper understanding of New York’s heritage. This quiet corner of the city encourages you to pause, reflect, and appreciate the stories that have woven the city’s vibrant tapestry. Green-Wood Cemetery, with its historical depth and natural beauty, serves as a poignant reminder of the city’s past, its unending evolution, and the lives that have shaped its journey.
8. Snug Harbor Cultural Center & Botanical Garden
Located on Staten Island‘s North Shore, the Snug Harbor Cultural Center & Botanical Garden is a vibrant cultural hub set amidst a backdrop of picturesque beauty. This 83-acre site was once a home for retired sailors. It now houses an impressive collection of 19th-century Greek Revival buildings. Interspersed within are lush gardens, tranquil ponds, and art installations.
Each garden within Snug Harbor is a universe in itself, ranging from the zen-like tranquility of the Chinese Scholar’s Garden to the explosion of colors in the Connie Gretz Secret Garden. As you wander these pathways, you experience a myriad of landscapes, each inviting exploration and appreciation of nature’s diverse beauty.
Snug Harbor also caters to art lovers and history enthusiasts with its myriad of museums and art galleries. Whether you’re browsing the latest contemporary exhibit at the Newhouse Center for Contemporary Art or exploring maritime history at the Noble Maritime Collection, Snug Harbor presents a rich tapestry of experiences.
The allure of Snug Harbor lies in its ability to offer a multilayered experience. It offers a fusion of culture, history, and nature that transports you away from the city’s cacophony. In short, it reveals a side of the city that contrasts with its usual fast-paced image.
9. New York Transit Museum
Housed in a decommissioned subway station in Brooklyn, the New York Transit Museum provides an immersive journey through the city’s history. It offers an insightful exploration into the city’s extensive network of subways, buses, bridges, and tunnels. It also shows how that networks has shaped the Big Apple’s growth and evolution.
The museum showcases a remarkable collection of vintage subway cars. Each one represents a different era of New York City’s transit history. As you step into these well-preserved cars, you’re transported back in time, allowing you to experience the city’s past through its transit evolution.
Interactive exhibits provide a behind-the-scenes look into the engineering marvels and operational challenges of the city’s transportation system. From understanding how a subway signal system works to exploring a city bus’s cockpit, the museum offers an engaging and educational experience for all ages.
The New York Transit Museum is more than just a showcase of the city’s transit history; it’s a testament to the city’s relentless progress and its constant strive for connectivity and innovation. As you navigate this subterranean gem, you gain a new appreciation for the city’s daily rhythm, its architectural prowess, and the intricate network that moves millions every day. By understanding the history and complexity of New York’s transit system, you gain a richer perspective of the city’s pulse, its resilience, and its ceaseless dynamism.
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.
