Explore the hidden treasures (attractions) of Manhattan, the heart of New York City. You will discover 21 unique attractions that will make your visit memorable. These eccentric gems are scattered across the borough, beyond the famous skyline and landmarks that define the city. Step off the beaten path and be amazed by the vibrant energy of these unusual destinations.
So, if you are looking for things to do in Manhattan, then buckle up and be ready to discover these destinations with this ultimate guide.
21 Epic Things to Do in Manhattan
1. The Earth Room
The Earth Room typically refers to an art installation created by American artist Walter De Maria. This conceptual piece, located in New York City, specifically, can be found in the SoHo neighborhood of Manhattan. This artistic hub is renowned for its unique and immersive experience that blurs the boundaries between nature and art. The entire loft space is filled with 250 cubic yards of soil and it serves as a medium for the audience to engage and get connection with the natural world. Immerse yourself in an unconventional art experience that you never had before. So, if you are looking for some unique things to do in nyc, then this place is a must-visit.
2. City Hall Station Whispering Gallery
Located in the City Hall subway station in New York City, the Whispering Gallery is an interesting acoustic marvel. This feature is situated on the mezzanine level of the station and has a curved archway decorated with ceramic tiles. The design of the arch creates a unique acoustic effect, which is known as a "whispering gallery." When two people stand at opposite corners of the arch and speak softly, the curved structure reflects and concentrates sound waves. This allows their whispers to be audible to each other, despite the distance. This hidden gem adds mystery and charm to the City Hall station, and visitors are encouraged to explore the underground transit system of New York City and experience this acoustic marvel.
3. The Mmuseumm
The Mmuseumm is like a tiny museum in New York City that's a bit different from regular museums. It's a small space located in Lower Manhattan, and it focuses on displaying everyday objects and artifacts that tell interesting stories about daily routines. The Mmuseumm celebrates the significance of seemingly ordinary things, turning them into fascinating exhibits that make you think about the hidden stories behind everyday objects. So, if you are looking for things to do in Lower Manhattan, then explore this amazing museum full of modern artifacts and oddities tucked away in a former freight elevator shaft in Tribeca.
4. The Little Red Lighthouse
It is a small and bright red lighthouse located underneath the George Washington Bridge in Manhattan, NYC. This lighthouse became famous from a children's book called "The Little Red Lighthouse and the Great Gray Bridge." In the story, the lighthouse is portrayed as unimportant next to the big bridge, but eventually, it learns that every little thing has its important role. It's a special place that reminds us that even small things can be special and meaningful, travel across the bridge to find the charming Jeffrey's Hook Lighthouse, immortalized in the children's book.
5. Pomander Walk
Pomander Walk is like a hidden street, it's a small and cozy pathway located on the Upper West Side of Manhattan. The specialty of this place is that it has Tudor-style houses that look like they came from a storybook. The buildings are all connected, and there's a lovely garden in the middle, making it a peaceful and attractive place. People enjoy walking through the enchanting Pomander Walk and feel like they are in a fairytale setting.
6. Greenwich Village's Secret Gardens
This place is like a hidden and beautiful escape in the middle of NYC. These special gardens are located in the Greenwich Village neighborhood, filled with colorful flowers, trees, and benches. These secret gardens offer a quiet place for people to relax and enjoy nature. So, if you want a break from the hustle and bustle of the city’s life, then this is the best place to visit in Manhattan. These gardens provide a serene and lovely environment, allowing visitors to take a break and find a little piece of nature in the heart of the city.
7. The Elevated Acre
This special outdoor space is in the middle of the city. It's elevated, like a park in the sky, you can find it on top of a building. A green and open area with trees, grass, and even seating to relax, people visit the Elevated Acre to enjoy a break from their busy lives. It's a great place to have a picnic or just view the skyscrapers, a peaceful spot to unwind.
8. The Hispanic Society of America
In NYC's Washington Heights neighborhood, there is an important landmark of Hispanic culture. Although it is not easily accessible, it was created to be the primary institution of its kind and a cultural cornerstone. This place will give you a clear understanding of Hispanic culture and history in the United States. In 1904, it was established as a museum and research library. Its purpose was to provide Americans with resources and knowledge regarding their heritage from Spain and Portugal. Dive into this cultural richness of Upper Manhattan, a vast collection of Hispanic art and artifacts.
9. The Holographic Studios
The Holographic Studio is a unique museum located in Manhattan. It is a combination of a gallery and a laser laboratory. Jason Sapan, an expert in holography, runs this unique studio. So, if you are looking for some adventurous things to do in nyc, then this place is waiting for you to explore. The Holographic Studio is the only known storefront holography gallery and laboratory in the world, and also the oldest holographic gallery globally. So, witness the magic of holography at The Holographic Studios in the Flatiron District, where complicated holographic images come to life.
10. The Old City Hall Station
The Hidden Subway Station in NYC, known as the Old City Hall Station, has been closed since 1945. It is one of the most architecturally stunning subway stations designed by Rafael Guastavino. The station was the original southern end of the first line built by the Interborough Rapid Transit (IRT) Company, known as the "Manhattan Main Line". The line opened in 1904 and was meant to be a showpiece and the crown jewel of the new subway system. It is known as a miniature Grand Central Station. The station was even the chosen place for hanging the memorial signs recognizing the achievement of building the underground train system. So, uncover the beauty of the abandoned Old City Hall subway station, which will be the best thing to do in New York.
11. Smalls Jazz Club
If you're looking for things to do in nyc at night, then this jazz club will entertain you in every manner. It is just like the ones you see in movies, with good music and an intimate atmosphere, you must head on to Smalls. The cozy basement space offers seats right up to the musicians' feet, with a large portrait of Louis Armstrong on the side. Experience live jazz in an intimate setting at Smalls Jazz Club in Greenwich Village, an underground spot cherished by jazz lovers.
12. The Dream House
The Dream House is a light and sound installation located in a hidden area of Manhattan's Tribeca neighborhood. It can only be found if people get attentive to the black door with a white sign inscribed with the words "THE DREAMHOUSE”. The space is filled with neon pink reflections and calming sound waves that fluctuate. It is a form of art installation that occupies an entire space and is three-dimensional mixed-media art. Immerse yourself in a sensory journey that offers a meditative experience.
13. Obscura Antiques & Oddities
This unique place is located in Manhattan’s East Village. It is one of its one-of-a-kind places where you will find a beautiful piece of medical history and part of an anatomical revolution. Obscura is a fantastic and charming store containing an astonishing variety of medical antiques, turn-of-the-century taxidermy, “memorial photographs, medical art prints, taxidermied pets, and more unusual items like these. So, discover peculiar finds at Obscura Antiques & Oddities in the East Village, a haven for collectors of the extraordinary and unusual.
14. Sara D. Roosevelt Park Basketball Courts
Sara D. Roosevelt Park is a green sanctuary in Manhattan's Lower East Side, named after a philanthropist and Presidential mother in 1934. It's a popular spot for locals and tourists who are looking for things to do in nyc with kids. So, take a break from the hustle and bustle of city life and enjoy your time at this beautiful lush green park. The park provides a diverse range of facilities and activities, catering to a wide variety of users, from senior citizens and children to recent immigrants and young professionals. It's the largest open space in the area and attracts artists too. Activities like the Golden Age Center for senior citizens, a turf soccer field for teens, several playgrounds for kids, a vendor’s market, and a roller-skating rink, are so popular at this place.
15. The Evolution Store
Evolution is a unique and attractive store located in the SoHo art district of Manhattan. The shop sells natural history collectibles, including framed butterflies and insects, fossils, seashells, tribal art, skulls, skeletons, medical models, and posters. The specimens are of high quality and are attained from the same experts that supply museums. The staff at Evolution is knowledgeable and is happy to answer any questions about their products anytime.
16. The Comedy Cellar
The Comedy Cellar is a renowned comedy club located in Greenwich Village, Manhattan. It is famous just because of his stand-up comedy. It gained a reputation as one of the most iconic and influential comedy clubs in the world. It's a favorite spot for both performers and comedy lovers. Many famous comedians, such as Jerry Seinfeld, Chris Rock, and Louis C.K., have performed at The Comedy Cellar, making it a popular destination for comedy fans. So, if you want to explore Manhattan and looking for ideas about what to do in Manhattan…. then this comedy club will surely be your top priority. Enjoy stand-up comedy at The Comedy Cellar, featuring surprise appearances by famous comedians.
17. The Water Tank Project
This project was launched in 2014, and aimed to raise awareness about global water issues by transforming rooftop water tanks into temporary works of art. The project was led by Mary Jordan, an artist and filmmaker, in collaboration with the non-profit organization Work Above the Street. Renowned artists like Jeff Koons, Maya Lin, and Laurie Simmons contributed their designs to convert these water tanks into pieces of public art.
18. The Mysterious Bookshop
The Mysterious Bookshop was established in 1979 by Otto Penzler, a well-known figure in the world of mystery fiction. The store is a great place for mystery lovers, as it offers a diverse selection of mystery, crime, and detective genres of books. To stay informed about the store's inventory, events, and operating hours, must visit their official website or contact them directly. If you're a fan of mystery literature and happen to be in New York City, The Mysterious Bookshop is a place worth checking out.
19. The Mosaic Trail
Mosaic trails are art projects that use mosaics to create a series of interconnected artworks along a path or trail. These projects are often public art installations, or cultural attractions that enhance the aesthetics of the area. Mosaic trails can tell a visual story through the mosaic pieces. You can reach out to relevant local authorities or organizations for the latest details on the specific mosaic trail you are interested in. Embark on the Mosaic Trail in the East Village, a collection of vibrant mosaic installations, showcasing the neighborhood's artistic spirit.
20. The Back Room
There is a bar in New York that looks like it's from a time when alcohol was prohibited. It's called a speakeasy-style bar, and it's hidden behind a discreet entrance. It's dark inside and decorated with vintage furniture. The bar serves cocktails in teacups, just like people used to do secretly during Prohibition. The bar is known as The Back Room, and it's a great place to go if you want to experience that time of era. Travel back to the Prohibition era at The Back Room, and enjoy the alcohol in teacups.
21. The FDR Four Freedoms Park
Four Freedoms Park is a serene and beautifully maintained space that overlooks the Manhattan skyline. It features a granite plaza with a large statue of President Roosevelt at its center. The park's design reflects Kahn's architectural philosophy, creating a space that encourages Meditation. It officially opened to the public in 2012 and has since become a notable landmark, of historical and architectural significance. Visitors can enjoy the scenic views and explore the park's walkways.
