“Make your mark in New York and you are a made man.”—Mark Twain. New York City is full of energy, vitality and activity. People know it for its famous landmarks, but there’s an uncharted world beyond the bustling Times Square and the serene expanse of Central Park. Venture into the city’s hidden gems, where the journey begins at the tranquil Shirley Chisholm State Park, leading to the enchanting ambiance of The Broome, the verdant oasis of 6BC Garden, and the cozy retreat of Brooklyn Hidden Oasis Apartment. To elevate the experience, consider essential travel tips that promise to make your exploration of these lesser-known treasures both memorable and seamless.
Beyond the Bustle: Secret Oasis
New York City is known for its bustling nature, with towering skyscrapers, crowded streets, and a busy atmosphere that often captures the spotlight. However, the city is part of a much bigger story. It houses unseen gems hidden amidst its concrete jungle—unique sites that provide refreshing getaways from urban chaos.
Take Shirley Chisholm State Park in Brooklyn, for example. Visitors frequently miss the quiet beauty of its secret pier—an overlook that provides respite to road trippers from the city rush time and again. Indulge at The Broome too, an untouched oasis nestled in New York’s prevailing hustle and bustle. Such tranquility in such a location seems unthinkable yet exists there harmoniously. Undoubtedly, one must not ignore the 6BC Garden either.
Watch this video to get a glimpse:
This East Village gem bridges whimsy with enchantment, using a storybook treehouse as its centerpiece. And then there’s the Brooklyn Hidden Oasis Apartment, which offers visitors a peaceful retreat around Highland Park while being well within reach of all urban amenities. Many are unaware that these hidden oases punctuate the landscape of New York City, providing timely respites for tired explorers navigating through the expansive metropolitan wilderness. Immerse yourself in these locations to discover another facet of life beyond the bustling sidewalks.
Watch this to get a glimpse of Highland Park:
Street Art Treasures: Graffiti Galleries and Mural Marvels
New York City bursts with unexpected treasures, and street art is among its hidden gems. The city’s heart pulses to the rhythm of color-splashed walls. The Bronx flaunts murals that reflect its robust culture and speak volumes on behalf of budding artists crafting their voice through this vibrant medium of expression.
Meanwhile, Manhattan’s Lower East Side sports a rich collection of graffiti, serving as an evolving forum for emerging talents who use art to echo social sentiments. Close by, where the Lower East Side blends into the East Village, lies First Street Green Art Park, housing artistic feats from renowned names like Carson DeYoung and Ratchi.
Watch this video for a Graffiti walking tour in Manhattan:
Over at Harlem’s Graffiti Hall of Fame, seasoned veterans showcase their skills honed over decades on schoolyard walls. Once upon a time in Queens, Pointz existed; although no longer standing today, it carries forward the legacy in its stand-out murals adorning nearby buildings. From the Bronx to Queens, every corner conceals artsy surprises waiting to be discovered by earnest city explorers.
Behind the scenes of neon signs and flashy billboards lies a culinary landscape rich with secrets just waiting for you to uncover them. For example, located in the East Village, Prune is a cozy and intimate restaurant known for its creative American cuisine—a hidden gem loved by locals for its inventive dishes and warm atmosphere.
Watch this to get a glimpse:
Then, tucked away in the Lower East Side, Kiki’s is a Greek taverna known for its casual vibe and delicious Greek dishes. It’s a great spot for those seeking authentic flavors in a laid-back setting. When in New York, avoid the usual and venture into kitchens tucked behind unmarked doors, where vibrant flavors unfold, mirroring the dynamism of NYC itself.
Tips for a Memorable NYC Road Trip Adventure
Thoughtful planning is imperative to unlock the rich tapestry of experiences that The Big Apple offers, all while avoiding the common pitfalls of tourist traps. Firstly, allocate a minimum of three days for your exploration of New York City.
This bustling metropolis demands your full attention! When it comes to accommodations, don’t leave it to chance after a day filled with excitement—secure your lodging early, as spots fill up swiftly, akin to the pace of a New York minute. Now, turning our attention to transportation – navigating the lively streets requires more than just any vehicle; a comfy car is crucial. It’s not merely about legroom; it serves as your mobile sanctuary as you traverse from one hidden gem to the next.
When you’re ready to immerse yourself in the city’s atmosphere, relinquish the car and embrace the subway system. Although the underground might initially seem formidable, experiencing the efficiency and connectivity beneath the bustling sidewalks will have you navigating like a local in no time. So, gear up right for this urban expedition into NYC’s less-trodden paths – secure your bookings in advance, choose a comfortable mode of transportation, and become adept at navigating the metro system
To conclude…
Every great city has its popular sights. In New York, beyond the tourist hubs, lies a world less known but equally fascinating. where graffiti galleries replace crowded museums, secret oases stand in place of public parks and hidden eateries offer an unmatched culinary experience. It takes you on a journey through the city’s heartbeats that are echoed not just through its landmarks but also within these tucked-away wonders. Rediscover NYC with every hidden gem you uncover and create unforgettable memories that last longer than any souvenir.
Sarah Knapp is a Brooklyn based entrepreneur whose love for the outdoors and community building led her to the October 2013 creation of OutdoorFest. She has a BA in History, is a Wilderness First Responder and a NY state hiking, camp and boating guide. Her proudest achievement to date is reading the Aeneid in Latin. 
Allison was one of our first top writers and Chief Editor but is no longer working with offMetro. Allison is a native New Yorker, who has lived in Rome, Tuscany, Melbourne, Toronto and Los Angeles. She frequently contributed travel pieces to Family Travel Forum, using her own children as guinea pigs as they travel the globe. She never missed a chance to sample local delicacies, as her love for travel goes hand-in-hand with her love for food and wine. 
Josh Laskin is a freelance travel writer and photographer based in the White Mountains of New Hampshire. When he is not at work or on the road, you can find him in the mountains snowboarding, climbing, hiking, fly fishing, mountain biking, and eating bagel bites.
Annie is a travel writer, environmentalist, and surfer based in Venice, CA. She heads up our West Coast team, keeps our grammatical errors in check, and makes sure our California writers always have a plan for their next adventure. Follow Annie’s travels @annelisemcb.
Carly Pifer is a freelance writer who has been known to follow whims inspired by romantic movie scenes or colorful street style shots to India, Japan, Tunisia and Argentina. After stints living in Seoul, Boston, Paris and Los Angeles, writing and searching for something intangible, she landed somewhat steadily in Brooklyn and has begun to find inspiration in her more immediate surroundings. 
Kate E. O’Hara is a New York based freelance writer and photographer who loves all things food—especially the people who make it and market it. Her writing aims to capture the essence of the food experience; the stories that go well beyond a plate of ingredients. In addition to her love of food, Kate is also known to have a hankering for red wine and craft beer. You can also find Kate on Instagram