Explore NYC’s Hidden Gems: A Tour Guide’s Tips for Enjoying the City Without Crowds

Let’s be honest, while there’s a ton to see and do in NYC, it can be exhausting fighting through the crowds. Here’s a handful of pro tips to get the city’s best attractions all to yourself.

When you picture New York City, a few very specific things come to mind: Times Square, the Statue of Liberty, and the view from the top of the Empire State Building.

While these are all iconic sites, they’re also super crowded, expensive, and there’s often a cooler and more authentic alternative to explore. Living in New York City my whole life (Brooklyn born and raised!), I’ve never visited the top of the Empire State Building—not because I don’t love a perfect view of the skyline, but because I know where to go for a better shot.

Instead of buying tickets to the Statue of Liberty… take the Staten Island Ferry

Lady Liberty is undoubtedly a recognizable sight in New York. However, between the long lines to board a ferry and the ticket prices that can quickly add up, you may find yourself questioning whether or not it’s worth it. Moreover, when you finally get there, the angle at which you look up at this icon of American freedom can be underwhelming.

Instead, hop on the Staten Island Ferry, which is totally free and provides some of the best views of the Statue of Liberty and the downtown skyline—much better than you’d get by being on the island. The ferry departs regularly from the Whitehall Terminal and even operates on holidays. Once in Staten Island, you can visit the Empire Outlets, located right next to the ferry terminal.

Instead of going up to the top of the Empire State Building…head to Long Island City

While experiencing the skyline is a must when you visit New York City, the view from the top of the Empire State Building is not the best available. Yes, you will be high up on the 86th Floor Observatory, but you’ll miss seeing the Empire State Building itself in your skyline photos.

Instead, skip the lines and head across the bridge to Queens. From Gantry Plaza State Park in Long Island City, you can snap panoramic photos of the skyline with the Empire State Building included. Enjoy the 12-acre riverside escape, which features playgrounds, picnic tables, and restored gantries.

Instead of eating in Little Italy…stuff your face on Arthur Avenue

New York City boasts some of the best Italian food outside of Italy, yet the authentic spots go beyond Little Italy. The neighborhood has shrunk over the years, now occupying only a few blocks.

Consider heading north to Arthur Avenue in the Bronx, which calls itself the “real Little Italy.” Here, you can enjoy some of the best Italian food, including hand-pulled fresh mozzarella and hearty sandwiches from local favorites.

Instead of braving the crowds at the Metropolitan Museum of Art… check out some of the lesser-known museums

While the Metropolitan Museum of Art is iconic, filled with priceless artifacts, it can be overwhelming and crowded. Consider exploring lesser-known museums like The Met Cloisters or the Tenement Museum. These gems provide rich cultural experiences without the throngs of tourists.

Instead of fighting the crowds in Central Park…go on a tour of Green-Wood Cemetery

Green-Wood Cemetery in Brooklyn is one of the city’s most underrated attractions. It features beautiful grounds and the graves of notable figures, making it a serene alternative to the busy parks.

Instead of heading to Chinatown…sample delicacies in Flushing

For authentic Chinese food, Flushing, Queens, outshines Chinatown with its food halls offering a vast array of specialties.

Instead of seeing a Broadway show…check out the Public Theater

The Public Theater presents diverse performances across various genres, offering a unique theater experience in the city.

Instead of spending all your time at St. Patrick’s Cathedral…check out some of the other historic churches in the city

Explore the rich history and grandeur of other notable churches throughout the city, which are just as magnificent as St. Patrick’s Cathedral.

Instead of looking for views at a rooftop bar or restaurant…grill out in Brooklyn Bridge Park

Instead of expensive rooftop bars, consider grilling at Brooklyn Bridge Park’s picnic areas, which provide unobstructed views of the Manhattan skyline.

Instead of eating at a single restaurant… check out the city’s great food halls

Food halls throughout the city offer a variety of dining options, making them ideal when trying to please everybody’s taste buds.