One of the most vibrant cities in the World, it’s true that New York never sleeps. With summer fast approaching and everyone itching to be outside, I’ve compiled a list of the best non-touristy things to do in NYC.

The Highline – Former railway tracks turned into beautiful pedestrian street with stunning views of the Hudson River. The best part is that this walkway ends at Chelsea Market where you can indulge in amazing eats at the end of your walk. For more info about Chelsea Market, click here.

The Back Room – Interested in going to a speak easy? This cool back alley bar serves drinks in mugs just like in the Prohibition period where alcohol was forbidden. Live jazz music with comfy plush couches, this is the perfect place to spend a Thurs or Fri evening.

Williamsburg – Lined with cool bars and chic cafes, this is the new Soho. Delicious places to eat and lovely shopping boutiques, it is only one stop from 14th street on the L Train to Bedford Ave. This area is buzzing at all hours and one of the few places I would take the Metro to/from after Midnight.

Berry Park – Do you like beer and watching American sports? This is a must stop for anyone that wants the true American experience with a pint and a stunning view of Manhattan. One of the only Beer Gardens in NYC with a rooftop, take advantage of this outdoor rooftop while sampling a delicious Pretzel or Bratwurst.

Sugar Factory – Need a bit of sugar and craving a cocktail? Stop by for a Fuzzy Peach Penguin Mango Mojito or Lollipop Passion. All cocktail Goblets are topped with your favorite candy for an out of this world experience. I personally love the Meatpacking location across from the Whitney Museum.

One World Observatory – 360 degree view of Manhattan’s beautiful skyline. You can see as far up to Yankees Stadium which is some 170 blocks away. Take a drink from literally the highest point in Manhattan and watch cars pass below you on the Brooklyn Bridge. Go during the day for the best views of the city.

Koreatown – Think of a street in Manhattan crammed with restaurants, bars, karaoke and supermarkets on top of each other like you’re in Seoul. You almost feel like you’re in Asia except you’re not. The best part about this place is that you can eat here at 4am after a night of exploring the Nightlife in NYC.

Stone Street – Located in the Financial District of Manhattan, this is where you come to socialize with people that work on Wall Street. Outdoor picnic tables line the street with several bars and restaurants. It’s a hustling place once Spring starts and the perfect place to people watch. My pick? Ulysses Folk Bar!

Hudson River Park – Going for a stroll in this Pedestrian only road along the Hudson River has its perks. Beautiful skyline views of Downtown Manhattan and also a view of Brooklyn and New Jersey to the right. It’s the perfect place to go for a bike ride or to take a casual stroll. Start from West 14th street and walk straight down towards One World Trade.

The Frick Museum – Looking for a smaller and more intimate Museum experience with less tourists? Come check out this former residence of Industrialist Henry Clay Frick. This beautiful mansion hosts an impressive Art and Fine Furniture collection scattered over nineteen galleries. Complete with a small theater and garden, you can find your inner peace and tranquility as you visit each room.
Hope you enjoyed my list of Top 10 Non-Touristy things to do in NYC. For more information on the Best Eats in NYC – 2018, click here.
Great article!
I recommend the view from one world observatory. It is impressive!
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Thank you! I really loved the view as well. It’s amazing!
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I’ve always wanted to go to NYC, but now you have me longing to go! I thoroughly enjoyed reading your post and the pictures are fantastic!
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Thank you so much. Really glad you liked my post. Feel free to reach out when you go and I could give you more tips! =)
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I beg to differ, I think the High Line is very tourist-y, but it’s still amazing! I went on it both times I was in New York. And I love anything Brooklyn, Williamsburg is fabulous!
Rachel || anotherstationanothermile.com
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The Highline could be touristy but most first timers wouldn’t necessarily think to go. But yes the Highline is amazing and seriously one of the best places built in the past 10 years. Still amazing to see how much the West Side has changed as I’m a total East side girl but wouldn’t mind switching to the West someday in the future lol!
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I like this a lot. Nice to know that I can go to NYC and look beyond your Empire State Buildings, your Central Parks, Statue of Liberty, Brooklyn Bridge etc. Not that I don’t want to go to those attractions but it just shows there’s more to NYC than the aforementioned
Johnny | The Travel Connoisseur
https://www.thetravelconnoisseur.wordpress.com
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I absolutely love this article! Being from Vegas I think people underestimate the experience of non-touristy things. There are far better experiences (and much lower prices) off the beaten trail! Great read!
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Thank you so much! Really happy to hear that you liked my article. I love sharing great places with others and help others feel like they’re living in New York. The best experiences are the local ones! Have you visited NYC before? We would love to have you =)
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These tips are amazing thanks for sharing! Will definitely be going to most of these on our next trip to NYC!
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Thanks Lauren. Glad you enjoyed them! I also have a post on best affordable eats in NYC. Feel free to check it out here too =) https://itstimefortraveltime.com/2018/02/27/best-eats-in-new-york-city-2018/
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Great post! I would love to go to one world observatory someday. Thanks for sharing ♥️ ♥️ By any chance you are interested on doing collaborations, you can check out the collaborations portal of Phlanx.com and connect with amazing brands!
Xoxo,
Tiffany
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Thanks Tiffany. Glad you enjoyed my post. New York is amazing and you will love it when you go! Sure I’ll take a look at the site. =)
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