Everyone should visit New York City at least once in their lifetime. Regardless of whether you prefer concrete jungles to actual jungles, there's something absolutely magical about New York that's difficult - if not impossible-to resist. I like to think that the magic lies in a tangible feeling that anything really could happen in the "City That Never Sleeps."
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Of course, one of the other attributes to New York City is that there is always something to do, any hour of the day and any day of the week. After you've seen the majestic Statue of Liberty; marveled at the views from the top of the Empire State Building; and swooned over your first bite of authentic New York Pizza, it's time to venture a little further into New York City. Don't miss these five off-the-beaten-path activities, guaranteed to deepen your love for an already one-of-a-kind travel destination.
Visit a Speakeasy
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Journey back to an era of prohibition, to cool jazz, to flirty flapper dresses and to the thrill of reckless lawlessness. We're talking about 1920s New York City! Alcohol might be legal these days, but a renowned interest in the back alley speakeasies of NYC is flowing.
For example, access to the popular bar Please Don't Tell is only granted after walking through a vintage phone booth. Alternatively, you'll find the bar Bathtub Gin after a stroll through a false storefront inside Stone Street Coffee Company.
Once inside you can enjoy a top-shelf martini, and if the spirits so move you, seat yourself in the center-stage copper bathtub. Alternatively, Prohibition Wednesday at Apothem features live jazz and over 250 cocktails, but you'll only get in if you know the password. For more on which speakeasies to visit and where to find them, don't miss this article by The Guardian.
Enjoy the Art Exhibitions at MoMa PS1
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There are plenty of museums and art galleries to explore throughout Manhattan, but if you're looking for something a bit edgier, then don't miss a visit to MoMa PS1. The Museum of Modern Art's non-profit contemporary art exhibition site is set up in Long Island City. MoMa PS1 aspires to "maintain its diverse and innovative activities to continue to bring contemporary art to international audiences."
The exhibitions here are innovative and experimental; for example, at the time of writing, there is a unique Art Amnesty program where artists can throw away their work that no longer serves them. In addition, every Saturday from July through September the MoMa PS1 hosts a music series summer event with live DJs and dancing, attracting thousands of local and international visitors.
Journey Through Sleep No More
If you've tired of Broadway, then don't miss the unique interactive theater experience of Sleep No More. Sleep No More takes the audience on an individual journey through a performance of Macbeth (albeit with no talking).
Once you enter the elevator to the McKittrick Hotel, a "restored hotel" which at times resembles more of a lunatic asylum than anything else, you are free to venture through the showing on your own accord. Open drawers, touch props, follow actors, stay in each room as long as you please-in this way, each viewing of Sleep No More is unique.
The adult-only theatre is quite dark (in more ways than one), perhaps not for those easily spooked.
Eat Greek Food in Astoria
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Astoria has wonderful ethnic restaurants from around the world, but it's particularly known with locals for its Greek cuisine. Taverna Kyclades is always a popular choice, known in particular for their fresh fish and grilled octopus.
It's always crowded here though, and as the restaurant doesn't take reservations, be prepared to wait for your turn to sit elbow-to-elbow with your neighbors. Bahrain Estiatorio is another popular option serving up authentic Greek food featuring fish, squid, lamb, salads and of course plenty of pastries.
Walk the High Line
Photo by Nicolas Vollmer via Flickr
The High Line isn't necessarily a secret, but it is still a gem in New York City. An abandoned, above-ground railway stretching from the Meat Packing District to Chelsea, the High Line has been restored to feature botanical gardens, a walking path, and great views out over the river. Just avoid visiting on the weekends as it gets packed with both locals and tourists alike.
New York City is a huge place, and there are definitely way more than five off the beaten track activities that warrant exploration! What other attractions would you add to the itinerary? Share in the comments below!
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