Manhattan is a must-visit destination for almost everyone that visits New York, and to many, it may read like an open book.
With so many popular sights and attractions, it’s easy to explore both in person and online.
Yet beneath its bustling surface, there’s a world of hidden gems in the famous neighborhood, just waiting to be discovered.
For every well-known spot overcrowded with tourists, there are many lesser-known secrets in this New York City hotspot ready for you to explore.
On your next walking tour in New York, earmark the following places for a quick visit – you won’t regret it!
1. Secret Urban Oases
If you want to escape the chaos of Manhattan’s busy streets, there are various urban oases you can flee to for a little peace of mind in your day.
The best tip for finding these spots is to head above street level, as in a city that’s grown upwards for decades, it’s one of the few places you’ll find a green haven or two.
Head to The Elevated Acre, nestled in the Financial District, if you’re in desperate need of a moment of calm in a pleasant green space.
Located above street level, this park offers incredible views of both the East River and the surrounding skyline.
The Radio Park above Radio City Music Hall also offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle, with lush plants and seating areas where you can enjoy a book and the surreal quiet in a neighborhood known for its noise.
2. Underground Culinary Secrets
While there are dozens of well-known restaurants and bars in Manhattan to enjoy a gourmet meal, do yourself a favor and live like a local the next time you’re in the neighborhood by visiting one of these two beloved spots:
Burger Joint at Le Parker Meridien
A burger joint that lives in an elegant hotel lobby? Yes, that’s exactly what you can expect at Burger Joint New York.
Keep an eye out for the small neon burger sign, and you’ll find your way to one of the best-kept secrets in New York City.
Los Tacos No. 1 Hidden Entrance
Tucked away in Chelsea Market, Los Tacos is often overlooked, but offers up some of the best tacos you’ll find in the neighborhood.
3. Underrated Artistic Spaces
If you go off the beaten path in Manhattan looking for a unique artistic experience, there are several places you can go to scratch the itch.
The Catacombs at the American Folk Art Museum
The Catacombs in the American Folk Art Museum features a host of unique exhibits and art pieces for you to explore.
The Rubin Museum’s Hidden Meditation Space
Sometimes, you just need a moment to catch a breath after a day of rushing around to see the sights of Manhattan.
You can get exactly that at The Rubin Museum in the Hidden Meditation Space, which takes inspiration from Tibetan Buddhist traditions, offering a free space you can use to pause and reflect.
4. Off-the-Beaten-Path Areas
If you’re out on a walk and you want to go somewhere that isn’t covered as much by main tourist guides, check out the following areas:
- Roosevelt Island – You can access this narrow island by aerial tramway if you want a different perspective of Manhattan during your stay, as well as a nice area to explore on foot surrounded by water
- Inwood – Located in north Manhattan, Inwood has the last natural forest in the neighborhood, and offers great views of the Hudson River
- East Harlem – East Harlem can be overshadowed at times by its more famous counterpart, Central Harlem, but “El Barrio” is known as a hub of Latin American culture and has plenty for you to see and do, including the Museum of the City of New York and the Graffiti Hall of Fame.
Discover Manhattan’s Best-Kept Secrets
There’s a lot more to Manhattan than meets the eye.
If you’re open to new experiences outside of the typical tourist attractions, there are plenty of options – and each of the secrets in New York City has its own story to tell.
Be sure to stop off at some of these hidden gems the next time you visit NYC.