New York, the city that never sleeps, is a destination that has something for everyone. From iconic landmarks to world-class museums, and from trendy neighborhoods to scenic parks, the city offers endless opportunities for exploration. However, with so much to see and do, it can be overwhelming to plan a trip to New York, especially for those who are looking for something off the beaten path.
If you're looking to explore New York in a way that's a little unconventional, a little unexpected, and a little more exciting, then you're in luck. Here are five ways to explore New York that will take you to the city's lesser-known gems, hidden spots, and uncharted territories.
Discover Street Art in the City's Abandoned Spaces
One of the best ways to experience the city's vibrant street art scene is to venture into its abandoned spaces. From the Bushwick Collective in Brooklyn to the Lower East Side's vibrant murals, the city's streets are filled with stunning works of art that are just waiting to be discovered.
To start your street art adventure, head to the Bushwick Collective, a outdoor art exhibit that features works by some of the city's most talented artists. From there, make your way to the Lower East Side, where you'll find a treasure trove of street art, including murals, graffiti, and stencil art.
Explore the City's Abandoned Islands
While many visitors to New York flock to the city's iconic islands, such as Manhattan and Staten Island, there are several abandoned islands that offer a unique and off-the-beaten-path experience. One such island is North Brother Island, a 20-acre island in the East River that was once home to a hospital and a quarantine station.
To visit North Brother Island, you'll need to take a guided tour, which can be booked through the New York City Audubon Society. The tour will take you through the island's abandoned buildings, including the crumbling hospital and the eerie, overgrown gardens.
Visit the City's Secret Speakeasies
New York's speakeasies have a long and storied history, dating back to the Prohibition era. Today, many of these secret bars are still operating, but they're a little harder to find. To experience the city's secret speakeasies, you'll need to know where to look.
One of the most famous secret speakeasies in New York is the NoMad, a swanky cocktail bar hidden behind a coffee shop in the Nomad Hotel. To get in, you'll need to know the password, which changes daily. Another great spot is Attaboy, a tiny, unmarked bar in the Lower East Side that's known for its inventive cocktails.
Take a Tour of the City's Abandoned Theaters
New York's abandoned theaters are a treasure trove of history and architecture, offering a glimpse into the city's rich cultural past. To explore these abandoned spaces, take a guided tour with a company like Untapped Cities, which offers tours of the city's most iconic and abandoned theaters.
One of the most famous abandoned theaters in New York is the Loew's Canal Theatre, a stunning example of Beaux-Arts architecture that was built in the 1920s. Another great spot is the historic Kings Theatre in Brooklyn, which was built in the 1920s and features a stunning blend of Renaissance and Baroque architecture.
Explore the City's Street Markets
New York's street markets are a great way to experience the city's diverse culinary scene, from traditional Jewish delis to modern-day food trucks. To explore the city's street markets, head to iconic spots like Smorgasburg in Brooklyn, which features over 100 vendors selling everything from artisanal cheeses to handmade chocolates.
Another great spot is the Queens International Night Market, which takes place every Saturday night in the summer and features vendors selling everything from Korean BBQ to Mexican street food.
In conclusion, exploring New York's lesser-known gems, hidden spots, and uncharted territories is a great way to experience the city in a unique and exciting way. From discovering street art in abandoned spaces to visiting secret speakeasies, there are plenty of ways to explore New York that will take you off the beaten path.
So why settle for the usual tourist traps when you can experience the real New York? Take a chance, be adventurous, and explore the city like a local. Who knows what hidden gems you'll discover along the way?
What is the best way to explore New York City?
+The best way to explore New York City is to venture off the beaten path and explore its lesser-known gems, hidden spots, and uncharted territories.
What are some of the best street art spots in New York City?
+Some of the best street art spots in New York City include the Bushwick Collective in Brooklyn and the Lower East Side's vibrant murals.
What are some of the best secret speakeasies in New York City?
+Some of the best secret speakeasies in New York City include the NoMad and Attaboy, both of which are hidden behind unmarked doors and require a password to enter.