Off-The-Beaten-Path in NYC

Contributed by: Tiffany Becker, The Hive Overland Park

I love to visit New York City. Full stop. It doesn’t matter the time of year or weather -there are always incredible things to see and do. If you have ever visited, you probably hit the big attractions like the Empire State Building, Statue of Liberty, and Broadway shows. All fantastic, but beyond the bright lights of Times Square and the grandeur of Central Park lies a treasure trove of off-the-beaten-path activities that will make your trip unforgettable! If you know where to look, you can explore NYC’s hidden corners and discover its lesser-known stories. And as a bonus – these are all FREE!! My list of A-mazing things to do in NYC is long so here are just a few of my top picks.

1. The Museum at Fashion Institute of Technology: Best known for its innovation and award-winning concepts, the museum is fairly small with fashion themed exhibits that rotate so they always have something new to see. I saw “Food and Fashion” and I can’t begin to describe how cool it was! I look forward to this museum every time I visit NYC.

2. New York Public Library: While the architecture and reading rooms at the New York Public Library are beautiful and worth a quick look-see, the highlight for me, are the free exhibitions that feature incredible items from their collections. I saw They Polonsky Exhibit with Audubon’s original drawings, historic Winnie-the-pooh stuffed animals that inspired the book series, Mary Shelley’s writing of Frankenstein, and so much more! They change the exhibits from time to time but there is always something fantastic to see. Also, don’t miss the gift shop – it has really fun and interesting stuff!

3. Little Island: This unique architectural oasis at Pier 54, along the Hudson River, is a true escape from the bustle of NYC. It has a beautiful landscape with walkways, an outdoor amphitheater, playground and a snack shop where you can grab a coffee. It is so serene and open year round - but I recommend going in the summer or spring when everything is blooming.

4. Salmagundi Club: A private art club that boasts many famous members, Salamagundi Club was founded in 1871 as a gathering spot for artists and art lovers. It is not your typical art gallery – It looks more like a beautiful historic home (with lots of artwork in the stairwells, hallways and galleries). It is open to the public and a true hidden gem.

5. Meatpacking District: This cobblestone-paved, hip neighborhood is fun to stroll around. The area is filled with upscale shopping, swanky bars and restaurants, and cute markets. It’s also home to the Whitney Museum of American Art, the High Line elevated park-like walking trail, and of course Starbucks Reserve. Its old architecture and open feel are quite inviting after being immersed in the crowded city all day.

Do you know of any cool, unusual, or off-the-beaten-path things to do in NYC?