Even in a city as big and bustling as New York, many people stick to the same old routines and only see the same sights. If you’re looking for something different, however, you’ve come to the right place. The following post highlights seven fun and unusual New York City attractions that many people haven’t heard of before. So, next time you hit the Big Apple with some time to spare, you can drop your bags off at a trusted luggage storage location and check out any of the less well-known places listed below.
1. The Met Cloisters
The Met Cloisters is one of New York City’s hidden gems. Located in Fort Tryon Park in upper Manhattan, this museum is dedicated to the art and architecture of medieval Europe. Home to a collection of over 5,000 works of art, the museum also hosts a variety of events and educational programs throughout the year.
The Cloisters is set within a beautiful garden, and the museum’s turrets offer a breathtaking outlook onto the Hudson River — a prominent feature in the blockbuster film, Sully: Miracle on the Hudson, starring Tom Hanks. With its peaceful terraces and stunning views, this museum is definitely worth a visit.
2. New York Transit Museum
The New York Transit Museum is one of the most unique museums in the world. It’s dedicated to preserving and displaying the history of the New York City transit system, and it’s filled with vintage trains, cars, and other artifacts. The museum is located in an old subway station, and it’s a must-visit for any fan of transportation or history.
Situated in the heart of Brooklyn, it’s well worth taking advantage of the museum’s convenient location to explore all of the other exciting attractions the neighborhood has to offer.
3. The Tenement Museum
The Tenement Museum tells the stories of the immigrants who came to the United States through the lens of the Lower East Side tenement buildings that they called home. These buildings were once home to thousands of immigrants from all over the world, and the Museum strives to preserve this history.
The Tenement Museum offers a variety of tours and programs that help to educate visitors about the immigrant experience. The Museum is also home to a research center, which houses a wealth of resources on the history of immigration. If you’re interested in learning more about the immigrant experience, the Tenement Museum is a great place to start.
4. Brooklyn Botanic Garden
The Brooklyn Botanic Garden is a fascinating park, located in the heart of Brooklyn. Founded in 1910, this world-renowned garden features over 12,000 types of plants and flowers. The garden is also home to a number of stunning water features, making it a peaceful and serene oasis in the heart of the city.
Visitors can explore the different gardens, greenhouses, and exhibits, or take a leisurely walk through the 52-acre grounds.
5. Roosevelt Island Tramway
The Roosevelt Island Tramway is one of New York City’s most unique and scenic transportation options. Located in the iconic Upper East Side, the Tramway offers splendid views of the city skyline and the East River. Visitors of all ages can enjoy the unique experience of riding in an aerial tram car. Afterwards, you can head over to another family-friendly activity located in the neighborhood and make it an afternoon to truly remember!
The Tramway was built in 1976 and has been operating continuously since then. It is one of the oldest aerial tramways in the United States and is one of the only remaining examples of its kind in the world. The Tramway is an essential part of both New York City’s transportation system as well as the city’s history.
6. The City Reliquary
Full of interesting artifacts and displays, The City Reliquary is a small museum dedicated to the history and culture of New York City. It also hosts regular events including talks and walking tours that help bring the city’s past to life.
If you’re looking for a unique and inspiring place to visit in New York, be sure to add the City Reliquary to your list. It won’t disappoint!
7. Elevated Acre
The Elevated Acre is a one-of-a-kind park in the heart of New York City. This unique space offers stunning views of the city skyline, as well as a variety of gardens and walking paths. The Elevated Acre is a great place to relax and enjoy the outdoors. It’s also a popular spot for events and gatherings.
Unusually located on top of a parking garage, the park features a variety of amenities and is an ideal spot to kick back and enjoy the sights and sounds of the city.
Explore the Fun & Unusual Side of New York City
New York City is a fascinating and vibrant place with a lot to offer to tourists and locals alike. From the Bronx to Staten Island, there are endless things to see and do. So, what are you waiting for? Visit NYC and explore some of its many fun and unusual attractions today!