Can you guess what NYC’s most underrated attractions are we talking about?
Whenever you talk to a foreigner about New York, you can easily point out attractions like Times Square, the Empire State Building, Central Park, the amazing Statue of Liberty, the top of the Rock, and many others.
But despite all of these famous landmarks, tourists to New York City frequently fail to notice its many hidden gems. And trust me, they’re amazing too! The absence of long lines and large crowds makes some of these off-the-beaten-path attractions perhaps even more enjoyable.
From one globetrotter to another, I recommend you check out NYC’s most underrated attractions; after reading about them, you may want to put them on your list.
Staten Island Ferry – Staten Island
You may be surprised, but Staten Island is one of NYC’s most underrated attractions. From my experience, this is by far one of the best places I have ever been to. And guess what? It’s 100% free to travel with the ferry to the island. Still not convinced? Sit comfortably because I have a couple of more interesting things to tell you about it.
Since its founding in 1905, the Staten Island Ferry has made 117 trips between lower Manhattan and Staten Island on a typical day. From lower Manhattan, the ferry departs several times an hour for those who wish to explore New York’s smallest borough.
A few features of the ferry ride caught my attention. First, there were the unbeatable views of New York Harbor. These days, whenever I take the ferry, I go to the lower front section of the vessel so that I can gaze out over the water unhindered.
Second, there are fantastic opportunities to take pictures of the Statue of Liberty from the ferry. The Staten Island Ferry passes directly in front of Lady Liberty, which is particularly magnificent at night when illuminated, whereas other ferries to Liberty Island cost somewhere around $20 per person.
If you’re also a foodie just like me, then you will love the restaurants in Staten Island that are only a 25-minute walking distance from the ferry terminal. With so many things to do in the city as well, I guarantee you won’t be bored!
Additionally, if you are considering taking the juniors on a family vacation, you should be aware that this is a destination that is welcoming to children.
The Met Cloisters – Manhattan
Among all of NYC’s most underrated attractions, the Met Cloisters is something I’d recommend visiting to every single tourist who comes here for the first time, especially to those who love museums. Why?
There isn’t another museum like the Met Cloisters in New York City. The Metropolitan Museum of Art, better known for its main museum on the east side of Central Park, is in charge of running it.
The only museum in the nation dedicated solely to medieval art makes this off-the-beaten-path option a veritable hidden gem that you won’t find anywhere else. You’ll be amazed at how much you can discover in a single visit! The next time you and your friends play a trivia game, you already know who will win!
Another reason to visit this underrated attraction? The area is so peaceful and quiet, resembling a medieval European castle; you won’t believe it’s in NYC.
Roosevelt Island Tramway
Take a ride on the Roosevelt Island Tramway for a different and reasonably priced aerial view of NYC. This picturesque cable car ride offers stunning views of the city skyline as it glides over the East River from Manhattan to Roosevelt Island.
There is a lot to see on Roosevelt Island itself once you get there, such as the serene FDR Four Freedoms Park, which offers breathtaking views of the UN building. The island is a peaceful getaway, ideal for a picnic or a walk, and a welcome diversion from the city’s typical tourist attractions.
Are you planning to visit NYC soon, and don’t like to rely on your phone’s GPS? Then you’d like to have the most recent version of the Manhattan & New York State Travel Reference Map. It’s available for just $13.95 on Amazon.
Van Cortlandt Park – The Bronx
Although Central Park is undoubtedly the most well-known green area in New York City that attracts millions of visitors every year, there are many other underrated attractions that are also worth seeing.
This includes Van Cortlandt Park, one of my favorite city natural preserves, which spans 1,146 acres. With more than 20 miles of hiking trails that wind through thick forests and over rocky crags, Van Cortlandt is the third-largest park in the city. However, it is also well known for its entertainment options, cultural significance, and history.
This amazing spot has unique hiking experiences, as well as both easy and complicated mountain paths. I would suggest visiting the Van Cortlandt House Museum, the oldest structure in the Bronx if you share my passion for American history. Almost exactly as it was before the American Revolution, it dates back to 1748.
Green-Wood Cemetery – Brooklyn
Now that’s one of NYC’s most underrated attractions because when you think about visiting a new city, going to a cemetery isn’t exactly the first thing that comes to mind. However, I have been there two times so far, and I must say that it would be a pity if you were around and not checking it.
The cemetery was established in 1838, marking the beginning of a new phase in the development of public green spaces throughout the city. The success of Brooklyn’s Green Wood Cemetery, which is close to Park Slope and Prospect Park, actually prompted the city to hold a competition to create Central Park, which started twenty years later.
The Green-Wood Cemetery Arch at the main entrance is the first step in the cemetery’s integration of historic architecture, scenic beauty, and cultural significance. One of the borough’s most iconic landmarks is this stunning brownstone building from the Civil War.
Numerous structures and monuments with classical or Romanesque architectural designs can be found as you meander through the numerous cemetery paths. There is also a church built in the early 20th century in the Gothic style.
The historical figures that are situated on park property also fascinate me. The final resting place of many New York City legends, such as Jean-Michel Basquiat, whose work revolutionized the art scene and still inspires countless artists today, is Green Wood, which has about 570,000 permanent residents.
The High Bridge
Connecting the Bronx to Upper Manhattan, the High Bridge is the oldest standing bridge in New York City. It provides breathtaking views of the Harlem River and a tranquil, car-free haven, so if you’re a hobbyist photographer don’t forget to take your camera with you. It will be worth it!
The bridge, which was first constructed in the 1800s as an element of the city’s water supply system, was made pedestrian-friendly in 2015. Crossing it on foot or by bicycle is like finding a hidden gem in New York away from all the annoying crowds. The parks and trails nearby are excellent for peaceful walks or picnics.
Which of these NYC’s most underrated attractions will you visit soon? Let me know in the comments below.
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