If you don’t know New York, it’s easy to think it’s one big city. But there are tons of hidden places that only the locals know about. From historic churches and gardens to secret gardens and public parks, there are attractions for every taste. Here are some top picks for things to do in New York City that tourists will love.
Croton Gorge Park
Croton Gorge Park is a great place to visit to enjoy nature. It’s located in Westchester County, New York, and has many hiking trails. The park also attracts wildlife, like deer, rabbits, and birds, throughout the year.
It’s an excellent place for bird watching or enjoying the beauty of nature for those interested in outdoor activities like hiking or photography. Croton Gorge Park is spread over 97 acres of land and has many hiking trails suitable for all skill levels. A small waterfall also runs through the park, making it ideal for bird watching or just enjoying the beauty of nature.
The High Line
The High Line is a park built on the remains of an abandoned railway, and it’s one of the most amazing places in New York City. The High Line attracts millions of visitors each year, so even if you’ve visited before, there’s no shortage of things to see when you visit again. You can walk or run along its length, which measures 1.5 miles or take your bike down its gradual slope. But if you prefer to sit back and relax while taking in some impressive views, that’s great too. It has become one of the most popular attractions in New York City because it offers so many opportunities for people to enjoy themselves during their free time.
The Explorers Club
The Explorers Club is a private club that counts explorers, scientists, and adventurers as its members. The club has a museum and library in New York City’s Midtown Manhattan area, but it also has outposts in the Adirondack Mountains and the Florida Keys. Its members are invited to attend lectures on the latest discoveries made by explorers worldwide. In addition, they can participate in expeditions organized by the group or even become one themselves.
The Explorers Club was founded in 1904 by Robert La Salle and Clinton Hart Merriam. The two men had a common interest in exploring the world. They wanted to create a place where explorers could meet other people who shared their passion for adventure. The members include some of the most renowned names, like Sir Edmund Hillary, Neil Armstrong, and James Cameron, as stated by the Scouting Magazine’s official website.
Staten Island Zoo
According to the office of the New York State Comptroller, in 2019, more than 66 million tourists, around 25% of the State’s visitors, visited New York. Located on the south shore of Staten Island is the Staten Island Zoo. The good thing is that the children’s entry is free. The zoo offers various programs ranging from lectures, workshops, and concerts to special events like Easter egg hunts and Halloween parties. It’s also home to many animals you don’t see in other zoos.
For example, one of their most popular exhibits is the koala enclosure, where you can spot these adorable marsupials hanging out on their branches during your visit. Thus, if you want an up-close look at some exotic creatures but don’t have time for safari hunting or deep-sea diving, this might be what you’re looking for.
Cloisters Museum
The Cloisters is a branch of the Metropolitan Museum of Art located in Fort Tryon Park, Manhattan. The museum is set on a steep hill overlooking the Hudson River and designed to resemble a medieval cloister. It was established as part of an effort by John D. Rockefeller Jr., who purchased and donated several medieval buildings from France, which were then reassembled in Fort Tryon Park. The museum’s collection includes over 600 works of art dating from A.D. 700–1520 drawn from European monasteries. Most of these pieces are illuminated manuscripts that include medieval miniature books and manuscripts with full-page miniatures on vellum pages. These are made with gold leaf applied by hand. Their covers often feature enameled designs depicting religious scenes or heraldic motifs.
Rockefeller Park
Rockefeller Park is one of the most popular parks in New York. It is a great place to run, have a picnic, or walk your dog. The park has many magnificent views of the city skyline, and it even has an ice skating rink that you can go ice skating on in winter. Rockefeller Park is also home to some famous sculptures, including The Fountain of Prometheus by Paul Manship. It was donated in 1931 by John D Rockefeller Jr., who built many buildings all over NYC, including these apartments. You can find this piece next door to another famous sculpture called Alice in Wonderland’s Mad Hatter by Jules Dalou. It was added in 1933 as part of the International Sculpture Exhibition held at Rockefeller Center during its construction phase.
Queens Night Market
The Queens Night Market is a fun place to visit, especially if you’re a foodie. According to Eaters NY, over 50 food stalls offer delicious eats like crispy Persian rice, duck skewers, and chapli kebabs. Other things to do in the area, such as shopping at the local shops on Metropolitan Avenue or catching some live entertainment at the nearby Rockaway Beach Bandshell. If you have time to spare, there are plenty of opportunities to people-watch at this bustling night market.
You Don’t Have to be a Tourist to Appreciate These NYC Gems
The city is known for its attractions and memorable landmarks. However, there are also plenty of hidden gems, and you don’t have to be a tourist to appreciate these NYC gems. These places are a great way to get out of the city and into nature. They’re free to visit and offer everything from hiking trails, swimming pools, botanical gardens, and even an old church. These places are great ways to spend an afternoon. If you’re looking for something more relaxing than Times Square or Central Park, try out one of these spots where you can enjoy nature while getting away from all those crowds. Times Square counts pedestrians as high as 450,000 on any busy day, as per the official website of Times Square. New York is a city that holds a lot of secrets. Unfortunately, many people only know about the top attractions and don’t pay attention to what else it is for them to see. If you plan to visit New York, make sure you don’t miss out on these seven hidden attractions every tourist must visit when in New York.
By Amey MyersAmey, an intrepid traveler and avid blogger, roams the world, absorbing diverse cultures, flavors, and experiences. Her writing captures the essence of her adventures, inspiring others to explore. Amey's infectious passion for travel and storytelling epitomizes a life filled with exploration and adventure.
