Unusual things to do and see in New York

Already know New York well, or looking for off-the-beaten-path experiences? Here are some unusual things to do and see in the city.

Explore beyond the usual tourist spots and discover hidden gems in New York. We take you to places where most visitors never go. You will also find unique activities that typical tourists overlook. A different way to experience New York.

Unique activities to do in New York

Hidden places to see in New York

Firefighter Tour in New York

How to visit a fire station in New York?

New York firefighters are legendary! Discover their fire stations and learn how to visit them. Here are the must-see addresses and tips to make your visit happen.

Engine 10 Fire Truck, New York

Visit the World Trade Center Fire Station in New York

When you visit the World Trade Center in New York, stop by Fire Station 10. You may be able to tour the inside of this historic FDNY house.

New York Fire Truck

3 tips to hear sirens in New York

New York's wailing sirens from fire trucks, ambulances, and police cars are iconic. Here are 3 tricks to maximize your chances of hearing them.

Titanic in New York

5 places following the Titanic’s trail in New York

The famous liner sank during the night of April 14-15, 1912, while sailing from Southampton to New York. Though the Titanic never reached New York, the city preserves its memory through remarkable sites and monuments.

Brooklyn Bridge New York

The 4 unusual details to spot on Brooklyn Bridge

Brooklyn Bridge is a must-walk with stunning views of New York. But don't miss these 4 hidden details that most tourists overlook…

Little Red Lighthouse New York

Meet New York’s Little Red Lighthouse

Want to discover New York off the beaten path? Visit the last lighthouse in Manhattan. A truly surprising place!

Marilyn Monroe in New York

Recreate Marilyn Monroe’s iconic photo in New York

The world's most famous photo of Marilyn Monroe with her skirt blowing in the wind over a New York subway grate was taken on September 15, 1954. Here's where you can recreate it.

New York Whispering Gallery

The Whispering Gallery in Grand Central Terminal

Grand Central Terminal holds a hidden gem: discover the Whispering Gallery, an acoustic marvel where two people can whisper across a vaulted corridor and hear each other perfectly while others nearby hear nothing.

Chinatown in Queens, New York

Chinatown Queens: New York’s largest Chinese neighborhood

Skip Manhattan's small Chinatown! For a truly immersive experience, head to Queens and discover Flushing's authentic Chinatown.

Empire State Building stairs

Climb to the top of the Empire State Building by stairs!

Want to peek behind the scenes of the Empire State Building? We highly recommend taking the stairs. Here's what awaits you…

Restrooms of the Standard Hotel bar

Experience New York’s Most Outrageous Bathrooms!

At this New York bar, the bathrooms offer an unforgettable surprise! Here's a must-visit address you won't forget…

Central Park Lamppost

The Amazing Secret of Central Park’s Lampposts

The 1,600 lampposts throughout Central Park do more than light your way. They hold a hidden code that can guide you if you ever get lost in the park.

Green-Wood Cemetery

Green-Wood Cemetery, a cemetery with a view of New York

In Brooklyn, there's a sprawling cemetery that deserves a visit if you want to enjoy a unique view of New York. Join us as we explore Green-Wood Cemetery!

Jackie Kennedy and JFK

Jackie Kennedy and New York: Personal and Historical Stories

Jacqueline Kennedy had a unique relationship with New York. Discover the defining moments of a First Lady who left an indelible mark on the city's history and culture.

Lady Gaga during the Monster Ball Tour

Lady Gaga and New York: glam, rock and activism

An avant-garde artist with a big heart and queen of electro-pop known for shocking outfits, Lady Gaga is a true New Yorker. Discover the iconic places that shaped this eccentric music icon.

Parking in New York

New York, the city of multi-level parking garages

In New York, you'll discover amazing multi-level parking garages that stack cars on top of each other! Here's how they work.

New York Catacombs

The catacombs of the Old St. Patrick’s Cathedral in New York

New York has catacombs too! Head north of Little Italy to explore the underground vaults beneath the Old St. Patrick's Cathedral. This hidden site is only accessible through guided tours.

House in New York

Discover New York’s Narrowest House

Manhattan's streets always hold surprises! During your stay in New York, don't miss this truly unique house tucked away in Greenwich Village.

Times Square Midnight Sunrise

Midnight Moment: Times Square’s nightly surprise

Every evening, for 3 minutes, Times Square's screens treat you to a surprise. The theme changes monthly, but the time stays the same.

Christopher Columbus in New York

The History of the Christopher Columbus Statue in New York

Christopher Columbus still watches over America! Despite controversies, New York continues to pay a fitting tribute to the man who discovered America.

Ford Foundation, New York

Ford Foundation: a garden inside a building in New York

Not far from the Chrysler Building, the Ford Foundation building is worth a visit. Step inside to discover the impressive indoor garden.

Pepsi-Cola sign

Where is the Pepsi Cola Sign in New York?

If you love advertising, cola drinks, and off-the-beaten-path discoveries, head to the Pepsi Cola Sign. This iconic billboard is now a New York City landmark!

Statue of Liberty New York USA

6 places to see France in New York

In New York, you'll find several charming pockets of France scattered throughout the city. The blue-white-red flag flies proudly across the United States too!

Pomander Walk

Pomander Walk: A Hidden Alley in the Heart of New York

Away from the hustle of Broadway and Fifth Avenue, Pomander Walk is a charming street that transports you straight to England. Let us show you the way!

Brooklyn

Oddity in New York: a fake house in Brooklyn

Among the old townhouses of Brooklyn Heights, there's one unlike any other… A curiosity well worth a detour!

Tennis at Grand Central Terminal

Play tennis inside Grand Central Terminal in New York

Did you know you can play tennis inside Grand Central Terminal itself? It's pricey, but the setting is truly exceptional!

Unusual street art in New York

Meet fascinating people in New York

Naked Cowboy New York

Take a Photo with the Naked Cowboy in New York

Ever heard of the Naked Cowboy? This iconic street performer is waiting for you on Times Square for a memorable photo! Here's where to find him and what to expect.

Naked Cowboy in Times Square

How much does the Naked Cowboy of Times Square earn?

A guitar, underwear, boots and a hat. That's all the Naked Cowboy needs to rake in a fortune.

Hip Hop in New York

Where to See a Hip Hop Show in New York?

Hip Hop was born in the Bronx in the early 1970s, blending rap and break dance. This style remains vibrant in New York's streets today! Here are my top spots to catch live performances.

Amateur Night at the Apollo Theater

Amateur Night at Apollo Theater

Amateur Night at the Apollo Theater is no ordinary show—here the audience votes to crown the best performer, just like The Voice! Read about an evening that will inspire you.

US Marines New York

Meet U.S. Marines in New York

Elite soldiers of the U.S. Army are also present in New York. The Marines welcome the public at one of the city's most iconic locations.

Ghostbusters in New York

7 Places to See Ghosts in New York

Several haunted buildings and houses exist throughout New York City. If you're brave enough, here are the addresses where you can encounter ghosts!

Ghostbusters Firehouse, New York

Where is the Ghostbusters firehouse located in New York?

One of the most iconic films of the 1980s… In New York, discover the real firehouse used for the Ghostbusters movie. Head to TriBeCa to find Hook & Ladder Company 8.

Sandwich Board Man

Meeting New York’s Sandwich Men

Despite being a modern city, you'll still spot old-school sandwich men on New York's streets. An unlikely job, but one that's holding strong!