Discover 45 + Hidden New York City Gems –  That Some Locals Don’t Even Know About!

Looking for the most fun and interesting hidden New York City gems?

I’m happy to assist! As your “all things New York City” expert guide, let me remind you that there are a ton of hidden New York City gems worth your while. Some are really unusual, others historic, and some just plain wacky.

Of course, when visiting New York City, you’ll want to enjoy all the main attractions and sites. However, it’s also really fun to add in a few of the secret and quirky things that are off the beaten path.

I’ll organize this list for you according to neighborhoods. That way, when you’re out and about you’ll know where to keep your eyes peeled!I confess that I haven’t even seen everything on this list, but I’m making my way through and will add more when I find them!

Short on Time? Here are my 5 top recs and 5 of the most hidden of the NYC hidden gems:

1. The Met Cloisters – Beautiful Medieval art collection hidden in a park.
2. NYC Public Library – Magnificent building with a treasures room.
3. Roosevelt Island Tram – A fun ride over the river.
4. Tenement Museum – The unique museum that tells hidden stories from the past.
5. South Street Seaport – A quaint & historic part of Manhattan.
6. The Elevated Acre – A secret & serene park up above FiDi.
7. Sylvan Terrace – A hidden cobblestone street with wooden houses.
8. The Mysterious Bookshop – A place for mysteries, intrigue, spies, and crime tales.
9. The Earth Room – A room filled with dirt.
10. Mmuseumm – Curios displayed in an elevator shaft.

Click on the map for all the hidden New York City gems!

Let’s start at the top of Manhattan. Here’s the list of 45 + Hidden New York City Gems

Washington Heights Hidden New York City Gems

#1 Morris-Jumel Mansion

Location: 65 Jummel Terrace & West 160th Street
Hours: Tues – Thurs 1PM – 4PM, Fri – Sat

Built for the Morris family in 1765, the Morris-Jummel Mansion is Manhattan’s oldest surviving home. This mansion, now a museum, is located in Washington Heights. At one point, it was the headquarters for General George Washington during the American Revolution! It’s also worth the trip because it’s next to the very cool Sylvan Terrace with its historic wooden townhouses.

#2 Sylvan Terrace

Location: St. Nicholas Avenue & 161st Street

The cobblestone street of Sylvan terrace is a cobblestone street lined with restored wooden row houses from the early 1900’s. Once the carriage drive for the Morris-Jummel Mansion, this charming street has been designated as a historic landmark. Be respectful when visiting this street because people are actually living in these homes.

#3 The Met Cloisters

Location: 99 Margaret Corbin Drive, Fort Tryon Park
Hours: Thursday–Tuesday: 10:00 AM–5:00 PM; Closed Wednesday
Adults: $30, Seniors (65+): $22, Students: $17, Children under 12: Free
Pay-what-you-wish for New York State residents and students from NY, NJ, and CT with valid ID.

While The Met is the most popular museum in NYC, its sibling, The Cloisters,  is more of a hidden gem. It’s quite literally hidden in the Fort Tryon Park in Washington Heights, overlooking the Hudson River. This museum looks like a castle and houses collections of medieval art from George Barnard and John D. Rockefeller. Probably the most famous pieces are the 14th Century Unicorn Tapestries. The museum was built using stones from some of Europe’s medieval abbeys. 

Upper West Side Hidden New York City Gems

#4 Lotus Garden

Location: 250 West 97th Street Roof & Broadway
Hours: Sundays 1PM – 4PM April – November

If you’re on the Upper West Side on a Sunday afternoon between April & November, consider climbing the stairs to the roof of a parking garage on 97th Street. This beautiful community garden has been tended to by 28 families for many years and is now open to the public on Sundays.

#5 Riverside Church

Location: 490 Riverside Drive at 120th Street
Hours: Thurs – Sun 9AM-5PM

Riverside Church is a stunning church, built in 1930, on the Upper West Side in Riverside Park, not far from Central Park . It’s known for its majestic 13th Century Gothic design. The Church overlooks the Hudson River, Columbia University, West Harlem, and Grant’s Tomb. It has the tallest church tower in North America which includes the 20 ton, 74-bell, Rockefeller Memorial Carillon. The Nave Sanctuary is known for its stained glass windows, carvings, and engravings. 

Upper East Side Hidden New York City Gems

#6 Carl Schurz Park

Location: East End Avenue & East 86th Street

Find the famed home of the NYC mayor, Gracie Mansion in this tranquil park along the East River.The whole park and its walkways along the river are hidden gems with beautiful views, gardens, and playgrounds. 

#7 Gilded Age Homes

Location:  Upper East Side along Fifth Avenue

Not so hidden, because they are giant mansions, but many visitors don’t realize the significance of some of these Upper East Side historic homes. Step back in time by admiring the grand, opulent mansions from the Gilded Age era.

–The Morgan Freeman Plant Mansion
5th Avenue & 52nd Street
American Renaissance mansion designed by architect C.P.H.Gilbert for the railroad tycoons the Plant Family. It is now the Cartier Store.

–Vanderbilt Marble Twins Mansions
647 5th Avenue
Designed by Hunt& Hunt. It is now the Versace Store.

–The Frick Mansion
1 East 70th Street
Built by Henry Clay Frick in 1914 is now the Frick Collection, a museum with works by Rembrandt, El Greco, and Vermeer. 

–The Roosevelt House
47 – 49 East 65th Street
Neo-Georgian style home built in 1908 as a gift for Franklin D. Roosevelt from his mother. FDR and Eleanor launched his presidential career from here.

–Payne Whitney Mansion
972 5th Avenue
An Italian Renaissance style home for the Whitney philanthropist family. It now hosts the Cultural Services of the French Embassy.

Midtown Hidden New York City Gems

#8 6 ½ Avenue

Location:  6th & 7th Avenues & 51st – 57th Streets

This is Manhattan’s only fractured street! It’s a pedestrian passageway that has been granted a full street sign because it is used so frequently by locals as a bit of a shortcut through the neighborhood. I have ended up there, not realizing it was an actual street. Remind you of Hogwarts’ Platform 9 ½?

#9 Morgan Library

Location:  225 Madison Ave at 36th St, Midtown Manhattan
Hours: 10:30AM – 5PM Tues – Sun, Fri 10:30AM – 7PM

I insist you visit the former personal library of J.P. Morgan, founded in 1906. It’s not really hidden but also, many tourists miss out on this opportunity.This is a magnificent Italian Renaissance home, turned museum. The library houses rare books,manuscripts, art and is a peek into Morgan’s life as a collector. Some highlights of the collection include the original manuscripts of authors such as Charles Dickens, Edgar Allan Poe, and Mark Twain, as well as drawings and prints by artists such as Rembrandt, Michelangelo, and Picasso.

#10  New York City Public Library

Location:  476 5th Avenue & 42nd Street
Free Times: Mon – Sat 10AM – 6PM, Tues & Wed until 8PM, Sun 1PM – 5PM

Another famous NYC landmark that’s hardly hidden, but I’m putting it on this hidden gems list because I know many visitors think it’s not worth the visit and they are wrong! This beautiful and historic building is absolutely worth a visit. Prepare to have your bags checked as you enter and you may have to wait in line to quietly stroll through the different reading spaces. See the marble-lined Rose Main Reading Room, grand chandeliers and sky-mural ceilings, and the striking Patience and Fortitude lion statues guarding the entrance. Visitors can explore rotating exhibitions, rare manuscripts, and literary treasures like the Gutenberg Bible.

#11 New York Transit Gallery

Location:  89 E 42nd Street
Hours: Tues – Fri 10AM – 7:30PM, Sat & Sun 10AM – 6PM

Do you love trains and buses? The New York Transit Gallery is in the Grand Central subway station. It tells the history of NYC’s public transportation. It’s a free museum within the subway system with fun programming for its visitors.

#12 Greenacre Park

Location:  217 East 51st Street & 2nd Avenue
Hours: Summer Hours 8AM – 8PM

Find this small park between Second & Third Avenues. It’s a surprising spot because it’s a privately owned park among tall buildings, with a lovely waterfall and nice seating areas. It’s open to the public in the summer months. 

#13 Roosevelt Island Tram

Location:  Tram Plaza at 59th Street & 2nd Avenue

Roosevelt Island is often talked about as New York’s best kept secret. For the price of a subway ride, take the tram to Roosevelt Island for a fun experience over the East River. You can walk around the historic, 2 mile, Roosevelt Island and discover several hidden gems, like a visitor’s center, the Octagon Building which was the former “insane asylum,” the former small pox hospital, and art installations, along with great views of the Manhattan skyline.

#14 .Whispering Gallery in Grand Central Station 

Location:  89 East 42nd Street

OK, you’ve probably heard about this hidden gem and wonder if it really works. Well, it does! Head to the lower floor of Grand Central Terminal and find the Oyster bar Restaurant. Place one friend in a corner of the arch way and you stand in the opposite “kitty” corner. Now face the wall and whisper sweet nothings. You’ll hear each other, I promise!

Murray Hill Hidden New York City Gems

#15 Tudor City Bridge

Location:  Between East 41st & 43rd Streets

As the first residential skyscraper built in its time, Tudor City, is an exclusive neighborhood complex with Tudor style, pre-war architecture. It was built by architect Fred French in 1925 and has a beautiful green park on the complex and a famous bridge that overlooks the United Nations and the river.

#16 Ford Foundation Atrium

Location:  320 East 43rd Street
Hours: Mon – Fri 11AM – 6PM, Sat 11AM – 6PM

The Ford Foundation is a center for social justice and the building is known for its art gallery and beautiful jungle oasis that is open to the public. Be sure to double check the website, however, because the hours vary!

Chelsea Hidden New York City Gems

#17 Pier 57 Rooftop Park

Location:  417 West 15th Street & Hudson River Park at 15th Street
Free Times: 6AM – 1AM Daily

This popular part of town has so much to offer from museums, galleries, eateries, the Little Island, the High Line and more – But the hidden gem among them all is the Rooftop Park at Pier 57. Grab some food in the food court below and climb the stairs to picnic on the benches overlooking the river and all of Chelsea.

#18 Museum at Fashion Institute of Technology

Location:  227 West 27th Street
Free Times: Wed – Fri 12PM -8PM, Sat & Sun 10AM – 5PM, Free Admission

FIT is the world renowned school for fashion design in NYC and the school’s museum highlights historic fashion as well as current student and faculty designs. The permanent collection has over 50,000 pieces from 18th century to modern designs.  This is one of Chelsea’s hidden gems.

#19 Chelsea Flea Market

Location:  29 West 25th Street at 6th Avenue
Hours: Sat & Sun 8AM – 5PM

Not to be confused with the very popular and not at all hidden, Chelsea Market, the Chelsea Flea Market is a weekend public market with no entrance fee. There are over 60 vendors selling all kinds of cool, vintage stuff. 

Greenwich Village/ West Village

#20 Keith Haring Bathroom Mural

Location:  208 West 13th Street LGBTQ Center
Hours: Mon – Sat 8AM – 10 PM, Sun 8AM – 8PM

Keith Haring’s famous bathroom mural, entitled “Once Upon A Time,” was created at the 20th anniversary of the Stonewall riots and marked the beginnings of the gay rights movement.

#21 Hidden Speakeasies

There are so many fun hidden speakeasies all around town! If you’re looking for some hidden gems to discover at night in NYC – here are just a couple that are super fun!

The Back Room
102 Norfolk St.
Look for The Lower East Side Toy Company sign on a little gate, walk down the steps into the alley and then up a staircase with toy cars displayed on the landing. You’ll see Laurel & Hardy telling you to Be Quiet in the Alley before you come to a hidden entrance from the original 1920’s speakeasy. You’ill enjoy your cocktails in tea cups while you sit on velvet sofas and listen to music. It’s actually quite beautiful inside!

The Garret West
7th & Bleeker
Walk into the Five Guys Restaurant and find the hidden staircase in the back. There you’ll find a beautiful speakeasy club famous for its delicious cocktails.

#22 Jefferson Market Library Tower

Location:  425 6th Avenue
Hours: Mon – Fri 10AM – 8PM, Sat – Sun 10AM – 5PM

This gem of Greenwich Village is a unique building designed by one of the creators of Central Park. Formerly a court house, this Gothic-style building with a tower is a public library. Do research where prisoners were once held and climb the bell tower that had views of the village.

SoHo Hidden New York City Gems

#23 Donald Judd Foundation

Location:  101 Spring Street
Free Times: Open for tours with reservations Tues – Sat

Donald Judd, a renowned 20th century artist, lived and worked in this cast iron building. He was known for having intense and radical ideas about the world of art and design. His permanent pieces were installed along with those of other artists and he and his wife used the space for exhibits. When you visit the space, you’ll be able to understand Judd’s art and vision. Guided visits only are available Tuesday to Saturday with advance reservations. No photos allowed.

#24 The Earth Room

Location:  141 Wooster Street
Hours: Wed – Sun 12PM – 3PM & 3:30PM – 6PM

Walter De Maria was a California artist who moved to New York and created art installations and musical performances. The Earth Room has been on permanent exhibit since 1977. It is quite literally a room filled with 250 cubic yards of earth. It is free to visit. No photos allowed.

East Village Hidden New York City Gems

#25 New York Marble Cemetery

Location: 41‑43 W. 2nd St., (not to be confused with the New York City Marble Cemetery)
Hours: Open to the public once monthly April – October

This hidden gem is kept hidden by its infrequent visiting hours! But if you can catch the timing correctly, then you’ll see why they call it a “Little Garden in a Big City.” The New York Marble Cemetery is the oldest, non-denominational cemetery in New York. See website for dates.

Lower East Side Hidden New York City Gems

#26 Tenement Museum

Location:  103 Orchard Street
Free Times: 10AM – 6PM Daily

I can’t tell you how much I love this museum. Known as a Lower East Side hidden gem, this museum gives you insight into the early immigrants of New York City by showing you their homes and how they lived.  Choose one of the fascinating stories and take  a tour!

#27 Doyers Street

Location:  Doyers Street & Bowery in Chinatown

In the heart of Chinatown is this historic street with a sharp curve in the middle and the colorfully painted road. Now a pedestrian-only street with a tea shop and bakery, it used to be known as the Bloody Angle. Chinese gang members would wait around the corner to attack their victims.

#28 Eldridge Street Synagogue & Museum

Location:  12 Eldridge Street
Hours: Sun – Fri 10AM – 5PM

The Museum at Eldridge Street is a Lower East Side’s true hidden gem. This is an 1887 restored synagogue designed in the Moorish, Gothic, and Romanesque style in chinatown. The synagogue is now a National Historic Landmark. There are guided and DIY tours of the sanctuary.

#29 Bascillica of Old St. Patrick’s Cathedral Catacombs

Location:  263 Mulberry Street
Free Times: Mon – Thurs 10:30AM – 4:15 PM

This is a hidden gem experience perfect for a rainy day. Learn a bit of history of the church and the people who are buried in the crypts below the church. Don’t get too excited about the “candlelight tour” underground – they are really just little battery operated candles. However, it was pretty interesting and with a good tour guide, you can learn a lot!

Tribeca Hidden New York City Gems

#30 The Staple Street Bridge

Location:  9 Jay Street

One of Tribeca’s sweet hidden gems is  a cast iron bridge that connects two buildings in the alley between Hudson and Jay streets in Tribeca. Great photo op.

#31 The Ghostbusters Firehouse

Location:  19 North Moore Street

Another treasure of Tribeca is the Ladder 8 Fire Station of Ghostbusters fame. Another fun photo op.

#32 The Harrison Row Houses

Location:  21 – 47 Harrison Street

I don’t know about you, but I really love the history of Lower Manhattan and this street is really special. These historic homes were built between the 1790’s – 1820’s and are still residences.

#33 Mysterious Bookshop

Location:  58 Warren Street
Hours: Mon – Sat 11AM – 7PM

This is known as the “world’s oldest and greatest mystery fiction specialty store.” If you love mysteries, suspense, and crime then visit this fun store in Tribeca.

Lower Manhattan Hidden New York City Gems

#34 Stone Street Historic District

Location:  Between 85 Broad Street and Hanover Square

Between 85 Broad Street and Hanover Square
Stone Street is Lower Manhattan’s favorite pedestrian only, cobblestone street. It is the home of the first brewery pubs in the 1600’s. It’s a great place for a little pick me up, some great photos, and fun happy hours. Even George Washington used to hang out here, so you should too!

#35 Fraunces Tavern Museum

Location:  54 Pearl Street
Hours: 11:30AM – 1AM Daily

Stop into this most historic of spots in Lower Manhattan.  Fraunces Tavern is the oldest bar and restaurant in New York City. Picture the country’s founding fathers having a drink here as they fought to build the United States. This is where George Washington said farewell to his officers on December 4, 1783, after the British troops left the country.

#36 Barthman Sidewalk Clock

Location:  Broadway & Maiden Lane

At the site of the famous Barthman Jewelry Store, embedded into the sidewalk is a clock made in 1896. It has since gone through some refurbishing, but it is still there for anyone to step over and check the time as they do!

#37 Berlin Wall Fragments

Four pieces of the historic Berlin Wall are placed around the city. Here’s where you can find these hidden gems:

• Kowsky Plaza at Battery Park City 385 South End Avenue
• 520 Madison Avenue
• 860 United Nations Plaza
• Ripley’s Believe it Or Not Museum – 234 West 42nd Street

#38 Abandoned City Hall Subway Station

Location:  Centre Street & Park Row

I shouldn’t even mention this beautifully preserved abandoned subway station because it is only open to members of the New York Transit Museum and is only open to them 3 times per year! So, if you really love the history of the transit system and the NYC subways, then become a member and please invite me!!! Check the website here.

#39 Printemps

Location:  One Wall Street
Hours: Mon – Sun 10AM – 7PM

Formerly a prestigious bank building, it is now transformed into the most beautiful Parisian department store you’ve ever seen – ever. You can dine, shop, look, and even buy something if you dare! I feel like it’s a museum, but everything is on sale!

#40 Mmuseumm 

Location:  4 Cortlandt Alley
Hours: Fri – Sun 11AM – 6PM

The Mmuseum is housed in an elevator shaft and displays tiny objects in a tiny space. Its mission is to tell important stories with these small objects. They are “dedicated to exploring the modern world and human condition through the exhibition of vernacular objects.

#41 Mercer Labs

Location:  21 Dey Street
Hours: Mon – Wed 11AM – 8PM, Thursday- Fri 11AM – Midnight, Sat – Sun 10AM – Midnight

This museum won’t be on the hidden gems list for long because I believe it’s getting more and more popular. What a surprise it was for me! I was gifted a ticket, otherwise, I probably wouldn’t have gone.  It’s a museum of design and technology housed in a giant former movie theater complex. Each room has a different exhibit that uses light, sound, color, technology, and super cool effects to keep you engaged and mesmerized. It’s not cheap, but kind of worth it because it is so unusual.

#42 Elevated Acre

Location:  55 Water Street
Hours: May – Sept 7AM -10PM , Oct – April 8AM – 8PM

The Elevated Acre is such a lovely spot to check out for a stroll, a little rest,, or just to take some pics of the views. It’s a one acre meadow of gardens literally elevated above the Financial District. A free hidden gem! There’s a big lawn, a beer garden, beautiful gardens, an amphitheater, and pretty walking paths with views of the East River. Enter the Elevated Acre on an escalator at 55 Water Street.

#43 Federal Reserve Bank

Location:  33 Liberty Street
Hours: 60 Minute Tours offered M-F 9:30AM, 10:30AM, 11:30AM, 2:30AM, 3:30AM

Weird that I’m calling this massive and important building a hidden gem, but it’s because lots of people don’t know that school groups can reserve a free tour of the Federal Reserve Bank. See the trading rooms, the bank museum, and the famous Gold Vault! This huge, sandstone brick building covers Maiden Lane, Nassau, Liberty, and Williams Street. This is the biggest depository of gold in the world with approximately 507,000 bars of gold in the vault. Each bar weighs about 6,331 metric tons, but the vault is 50 feet below sea level so the floor won’t collapse! Currently, tours are only allowed for school groups. Teachers and parents Contact the Federal Reserve Bank here. You need to make a reservation for a tour.

#44 Printed Matter

Location:  231 11th Avenue
Free Times: Tues – Sat 11AM – 7PM, Sun 11AM – 6PM

Printed Matter is a unique bookstore that’s dedicated specifically to artist-made publications. The whole store is focused on independent publishing and contemporary art. I like it because it’s more like a gallery than a bookstore. This New York hidden gem is great for art enthusiasts.

#45 South Street Seaport

Location:  Bounded by the East River, Fulton Street and John Street

I’m calling this a hidden gem because it’s surprising to me how many locals and visitors alike, don’t know about all the fun in this part of the city! Southstreet is like a quaint cobblestone village on the water. You’ll find historic buildings and trendy boutiques, pubs, restaurants, and an awesome bookstore. There are historic ships and a Maritime Museum next to The Tin Building, a renovated gourmet food court. 

Where is the best place to stay in New York City?

In addition to all the hidden gems, one of the best things about New York City is its neighborhood cultures. Here are some of the safest and best places to stay with great reviews in great neighborhoods.

→ Best Budget Spot – Arlo SoHo

Arlo SoHo is in the heart of Greenwich Village, has a rooftop bar, and views of the river. This spot can cost you $292 and up.

→ Best Mid-Range Spot – The Hotel Beacon

The Hotel Beacon is a historic building on the Upper West Side with apartment style rooms near Central Park. This hotel can cost you $479 and up.

→ Best Luxury Spot – Lotte New York Palace

Lotte New York Palace was formerly the historic Villard Mansion, on Madison Avenue. This grand, 5 star hotel can cost you $595 and up.

How to get around New York City to find these Hidden Gems

Walking Around NYC

Walking in NYC is the cheapest and best way to get around. It’s safe, easy to do, and you get to experience and see a lot more of the city that way.

NYC By Subway

When walking doesn’t work, the NYC Subway system will get you wherever you need to go. This is the most used and convenient public transport in the city.

PRO TIP:  Download the MY MTA app on your phone. This is the official Metropolitan Transit Authority (MTA) app for NYC subways and bus system. It has ALL the info you need, including maps and schedules for all the subways, bus, and rail systems.

PRO TIP: If you are using your Maps/GPS App on your phone, hit the “transit” view and it will tell you exactly where the closest subway station is and which train to take to your destination.

PRO TIP: There are several ways to pay for the public transportation systems. THE EASIEST thing to do is make sure you have your credit card loaded on your phone in your “wallet.” When you open that card you simply TAP the OMNY (One Metro New York) screen at the turnstile of the subway stop and it charges you. Like magic!

• Each ride costs $2.90. The easiest thing is to TAP TO PAY with your smartphone, credit card, or OMNY (One Metro New York) card.
• If you tap with the same device within 7 days, you’ll be capped at $34 and ride free the rest of the 7 days! If you spend less than $34, you’re only charged for the rides you take.
• You can tap in up to 4 people on your same device or card.
• Note: if it’s your first time tapping, it takes a few minutes for your bank to approve a new user, so you might not be able to tap in others on your first time.
• Subways and bus fares are $1.45 for 65 or older and those with disabilities – if you have applied for the reduced fare program. More info here.

NYC By Uber, Lyft, Revel, or Taxi

Ride share apps are always a great, safe, and convenient way to get around NYC, but not cheap! Therefore, if you’re with a larger group of friends or family however, it’s sometimes less expensive to share a ride rather than pay for separate subway fares.

PRO TIP:  Load all the ride share apps onto your phone ahead of time and then check the prices of Uber, Lyft, and Revel before your order, to compare. Prices vary a lot at different times of the day and night. Taxis are also visible and available everywhere, but still require the old fashioned hailing-from-the-curb system. If the light on the top of the cab is on, that means it’s available. There is an app called Curb that you can download. But according to locals who have used it, the cabs don’t come as quickly as the other ride shares do.

How many of these hidden New York City gems can you find?

In a nutshell…

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a longtime New Yorker, there’s always something new to uncover in the city that never sleeps. I love the random discoveries of tiny neighborhood parks, or sculpture gardens, or unusual architecture that surprise me as I wander the New York City streets. It’s one of my favorite things about the Big Apple – discovering small world moments. 

From tucked-away gardens and secret speakeasies to forgotten mansions and quirky museums, these hidden gems offer a fresh way to explore the depth and diversity of New York City. So next time you’re wandering the streets, take a detour—you never know what surprises are waiting around the corner.

Check out my other New York City posts for more ideas of things to do in my favorite town! I’ve created itineraries for 1 day in NYC, 2 days in NYC, 3 days in NYC, 4 days in NYC, and 5 days in NYC so pick and choose a highlight for each day!

xx,
Carrie