Discover NYC’s wonders, uncover hidden gems with Scout.
New York City Unveiled: Must-See Attractions and Hidden Gems
Ah, New York City. The Big Apple. The City That Never Sleeps. A bustling metropolis full of life, culture, and endless possibilities. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned local, there’s always something new to discover in this vibrant city. And with the help of Scout, you can uncover some of the city’s best-kept secrets and hidden gems.
As a former resident of Greenpoint, I invite you to join me on an adventure through the vibrant streets of New York City. From my old stomping grounds, we’ll venture out to explore the wonders of this incredible city that not every tourist will find by him/herself, guided by Scout’s insider knowledge and expertise. Get ready to uncover hidden gems and immerse yourself in the diverse neighborhoods that make up the fabric of this concrete jungle.
Let’s kick off our journey in Greenpoint, a charming Brooklyn neighborhood known for its trendy cafes, art galleries, and unique shops. Take a leisurely stroll along Franklin Street and discover local gems like cozy coffee shops and independent boutiques. As we explore the streets lined with beautiful brownstone buildings, we’ll make our way to nearby Williamsburg, a mecca for artists, creatives, and trendsetters. Delve into the vibrant arts scene, check out live music venues, and indulge in delectable eats at the neighborhood’s top-notch restaurants.
Then take the G train to Bushwick, a neighborhood in Brooklyn that has become a haven for artists and creatives. Here you’ll find colorful street art, trendy bars and restaurants, and a thriving arts scene. Take a stroll down the Bushwick Collective, a series of murals that adorn the walls of the neighborhood’s buildings. And if you’re lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of some of the artists at work.
Next up is Williamsburg, another Brooklyn neighborhood that has undergone a transformation in recent years. Once a gritty industrial area, it’s now a hub for hipsters and young professionals. Check out the boutiques, cafes, and bars that line Bedford Avenue, or head to the waterfront for stunning views of Manhattan. And if you’re there on a Saturday, be sure to visit Smorgasburg, an outdoor food market that features some of the city’s best eats.
For a more off-the-beaten-path experience, head to Dumbo (short for Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass), a neighborhood in Brooklyn that’s tucked away beneath the iconic Manhattan Bridge. Here you’ll find cobblestone streets, old warehouses that have been converted into lofts and galleries, and stunning views of the Brooklyn Bridge. And if you’re feeling adventurous, take a ride on the East River Ferry or the water taxi to nearby Red Hook or Governors Island.
Speaking of Governors Island, this former military base is now a public park that’s only accessible by ferry. It’s a great place to spend a lazy afternoon picnicking, biking, or just taking in the views of Manhattan and the Statue of Liberty. And if you’re there during the summer months, be sure to check out the island’s events calendar for concerts, festivals, and other fun activities.
Moving on to the Bronx, there’s plenty to see and do beyond Yankee Stadium. Check out the New York Botanical Garden, which features 250 acres of gardens and greenhouses. Or head to the Bronx Zoo, one of the largest metropolitan zoos in the world. And if you’re interested in art, be sure to visit the Bronx Museum of the Arts or the Andrew Freedman Home, a former retirement home that’s been transformed into an arts center.
Last but not least is Queens, which is often overshadowed by its more famous neighbor across the river. But this borough has plenty to offer, from the contemporary art exhibits at PS1 to the stunning sculptures at the Noguchi Museum. And if you’re looking for a taste of international cuisine, head to Astoria or Jackson Heights for some of the best Greek, Indian, and Latin American food in the city.
Last but not least is Queens, which is often overshadowed by its more famous neighbor across the river. But this borough has plenty to offer, from the contemporary art exhibits at PS1 to the stunning sculptures at the Noguchi Museum. And if you’re looking for a taste of international cuisine, head to Astoria or Jackson Heights for some of the best Greek, Indian, and Latin American food in the city.Whether you’re planning a holiday or just looking for something to do on a lazy Sunday afternoon, New York City has something for everyone. So grab your subway card and your sense of adventure, and get ready to uncover some of the city’s best-kept secrets with Scout as your guide.
Hip and Trendy Brooklyn (Red Hook, Fort Greene, Greenpoint, Williamsburg):
Common Points of Interest:
- Brooklyn Bridge Park
- Brooklyn Museum
- Prospect Park
- Smorgasburg (Outdoor food market)
- Williamsburg Waterfront
Uncommon Points of Interest:
- Brooklyn Grange Rooftop Farm (Urban farm)
- Pioneer Works (Art and performance space)
- Red Hook Winery
- Fort Greene Park
- Greenpoint Terminal Market
Cultural Spots:
- BRIC Arts Media House (Exhibitions and performances)
- BAM (Brooklyn Academy of Music)
- Nitehawk Cinema (Dine-in movie theater)
- Music Hall of Williamsburg
- Brooklyn Bowl
Restaurants:
- Peter Luger Steak House
- Marlow & Sons (New American cuisine)
- Diner (Farm-to-table dining)
- Roberta’s Pizza
- Lilia (Italian cuisine)
Bars and Coffee Shops:
- Brooklyn Roasting Company
- Brooklyn Brewery
- The Ides Bar at the Wythe Hotel
- Maison Premiere (Oyster bar and cocktail lounge)
- Barcade (Bar and arcade)
Tips:
- Explore the street art in Bushwick and Williamsburg.
- Visit the Brooklyn Flea Market for unique vintage finds.
- Take a stroll along the scenic waterfront in Red Hook.
- Check out live music shows and performances at local venues.
- Rent a bike and explore the neighborhoods on two wheels.
Queens:
Common Points of Interest:
- Flushing Meadows-Corona Park
- Queens Museum
- Citi Field (Home of the New York Mets)
- Astoria Park
- Rockaway Beach
Uncommon Points of Interest:
- MoMA PS1 (Contemporary art museum)
- Gantry Plaza State Park
- Noguchi Museum
- The Louis Armstrong House Museum
- Socrates Sculpture Park
Cultural Spots:
- Kaufman Astoria Studios
- Museum of the Moving Image
- Queens Theatre
- Astoria Performing Arts Center
- Thalia Spanish Theatre
Restaurants:
- Xi’an Famous Foods (Chinese cuisine)
- SriPraPhai (Thai cuisine)
- Taverna Kyclades (Greek cuisine)
- Arepa Lady (Colombian street food)
- Tortilleria Nixtamal (Mexican cuisine)
Bars and Coffee Shops:
- The Last Word (Craft cocktail bar)
- Sweetleaf Coffee Roasters
- SingleCut Beersmiths (Craft brewery)
- The Bonnie (Cocktail bar with a garden)
- Astoria Bier & Cheese
Tips:
- Explore the diverse food scene in Queens, known for its authentic ethnic cuisines.
- Take a leisurely walk in Flushing Meadows-Corona Park and enjoy its iconic landmarks.
- Visit the Queens Night Market for a taste of international street food.
- Take a trip to Rockaway Beach for a day of sun, sand, and surf.
- Discover the vibrant cultural festivals and events happening throughout the borough.
Lower Manhattan:
Common Points of Interest:
- One World Trade Center and the 9/11 Memorial
- Wall Street and the Charging Bull
- Battery Park
- South Street Seaport
- Chinatown
Uncommon Points of Interest:
- The High Line (Elevated park and public art space)
- The Tenement Museum
- Museum of Jewish Heritage
- Fraunces Tavern (Historic bar and museum) Here’s the continuation of the list for each area:
Lower Manhattan (continued):
- Stone Street (Historic cobblestone street with bars and restaurants)
Cultural Spots:
- New York City Hall
- National Museum of the American Indian
- Museum of Chinese in America
- New Museum
- Lower East Side Tenement Museum
Restaurants:
- Katz’s Delicatessen
- Delmonico’s (Historic steakhouse)
- Nom Wah Tea Parlor (Dim sum)
- Eataly Downtown (Italian marketplace)
- Balthazar (French brasserie)
Bars and Coffee Shops:
- Dead Rabbit Grocery and Grog (Award-winning cocktail bar)
- Blacktail (Cocktail bar with a vintage vibe)
- Blue Bottle Coffee
- Hole in the Wall (Australian-style café)
- Fraunces Tavern (Historic bar with a museum)
Tips:
- Take a ferry to visit Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty.
- Walk across the Brooklyn Bridge for stunning views of the city skyline.
- Explore the vibrant street art scene in Lower Manhattan.
- Sample the diverse culinary delights of Chinatown.
- Enjoy a relaxing picnic in Battery Park while taking in the views of the harbor.
Middle Manhattan:
Common Points of Interest:
- Central Park
- Times Square
- Rockefeller Center
- Empire State Building
- Grand Central Terminal
Uncommon Points of Interest:
- The Morgan Library and Museum
- The High Line (Elevated park and public art space)
- The Frick Collection
- The Cloisters (Medieval art museum)
- The Flatiron Building
Cultural Spots:
- Museum of Modern Art (MoMA)
- Carnegie Hall
- Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts
- Radio City Music Hall
- The Metropolitan Museum of Art (The Met)
Restaurants:
- Le Bernardin (Michelin-starred seafood)
- Eleven Madison Park (World-renowned fine dining)
- Katz’s Delicatessen
- Momofuku Noodle Bar
- Gramercy Tavern
Bars and Coffee Shops:
- PDT (Speakeasy-style cocktail bar)
- Cafe Grumpy
- Blue Bottle Coffee
- Raines Law Room (Prohibition-era cocktail bar)
- The Dead Rabbit Grocery and Grog
Tips:
- Take a leisurely stroll through Central Park and explore its hidden corners.
- Catch a Broadway show in the Theater District.
- Visit the observation deck of the Empire State Building for breathtaking views.
- Explore the bustling food scene in Koreatown.
- Discover the world-class art collections at the museums along Museum Mile.
Harlem:
Common Points of Interest:
- Apollo Theater
- Studio Museum in Harlem
- Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture
- Marcus Garvey Park
- Sylvia’s Restaurant
Uncommon Points of Interest:
- The Cotton Club
- Malcolm X and Dr. Betty Shabazz Memorial and Educational Center
- Strivers’ Row (Historic residential area)
- National Jazz Museum in Harlem
- Harlem Stage (Performing arts center)
Cultural Spots:
- Abyssinian Baptist Church
- Harlem School of the Arts
- Minton’s Playhouse (Historic jazz club)
- Dance Theatre of Harlem
- El Museo del Barrio
Restaurants:
- Red Rooster Harlem
- Amy Ruth’s (Soul food)
- Sylvia’s Restaurant
- Harlem Shake (Burger joint)
- Rao’s
Governors Island:
Common Points of Interest:
- The Hills (Artificially constructed hills with stunning views)
- The New York Harbor School
- Liggett Terrace (Open green space for picnics and relaxation)
- The Island’s Historic District
- Collective Retreats (Luxury glamping experience)
Uncommon Points of Interest:
- The Urban Farm (Educational farm showcasing sustainable practices)
- The Hills Slide (Slide down the hills for a fun-filled adventure)
- Fort Jay (Historic military fort)
- The Yard (Outdoor art installation and performance space)
- Adventures at Governors Island (Outdoor recreational activities like ziplining and rock climbing)
Cultural Spots:
- The National Monument of the New Colossus (Monument dedicated to immigrants)
- Nolan Park (Cluster of historic buildings with art exhibitions and events)
- Castle Williams (Fort-turned-museum showcasing the island’s history)
- Governors Island Art Fair (Annual art fair featuring local and international artists)
- The Jazz Age Lawn Party (Annual event celebrating the music and culture of the Roaring Twenties)
Restaurants:
- Island Oyster (Waterfront oyster bar with stunning views)
- Little Eva’s (Food truck serving delicious Caribbean cuisine)
- Taco Vista (Taco stand offering a variety of flavorful options)
- Fauzia’s Heavenly Delights (Family-owned bakery specializing in Middle Eastern treats)
- Governors Beer Co. (Brewery and taproom serving craft beers)
Bars and Coffee Shops:
- Island Oyster Bar (Outdoor bar with a variety of beverages)
- The Longest Time (Vintage-inspired cocktail bar)
- Joe Coffee (Artisanal coffee shop)
- Governors Island Distillery (Distillery offering tours and tastings)
- Island Oyster Bar Wine Bar (Wine bar with a curated selection of wines)
Tips:
- Rent a bike or bring your own to explore the island’s scenic bike paths.
- Pack a picnic and enjoy a leisurely lunch on Liggett Terrace.
- Take a guided tour to learn about the island’s rich history and unique features.
- Check the island’s event calendar for concerts, art exhibitions, and other special events.
- Don’t forget your sunscreen and comfortable walking shoes as you’ll be spending a lot of time outdoors.
