The Real New York: 9 Cool Things Even Locals Keep to Themselves

Introduction:

New York City dazzles visitors with its iconic landmarks - the Empire State Building piercing the sky, Times Square's electric pulse, and Central Park's sprawling greenery. Yet beyond these postcard-perfect attractions lies a different NYC, one that locals treasure and rarely share.

Think hidden rooftop gardens with panoramic views, secret bars tucked behind unmarked doors, and underground comedy shows in unexpected venues. These spots create the real New York experience, away from tourist crowds and guidebook recommendations.

We've uncovered a curated collection of NYC's best-kept secrets. These spots aren't just hidden - they're local favorites that showcase the city's authentic character. From a plant shop that transforms into a Mexican speakeasy at night to a private dining experience that feels like stepping into an Italian grandmother's kitchen, these places define New York's true spirit.

Ready to discover the New York that locals know and love? Let's explore these hidden gems together.

1. Skyline Outdoor Cinema

Skyline Drive-In NYC is a unique drive-in cinema experience, at 1 Oak Street. Our location, situated on the East River with killer views of the Manhattan Skyline

Skyline Cinema

• A movie ticket and outdoor seat
• All spots are first-come-first-serve.

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2. Adventure park

Enjoy the ultimate indoor adventure park, situated in Williamsburg. Have fun no matter what your level of adventuring is, from the inexperienced to the adventurer experts, our Adventure Park is a fun place for everyone.

Adventure Park Access

• Ropes Course
• Rock climbing
• Zip Line
• Slides
• Battle Beam

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3. Canoe & Kayak Odyssey on Catskill Creek

Enjoy a gentle, peaceful day on the water in Catskill Creek. This beginner canoe trip will take us past forests and rural areas until we return to the lovely town of Catskill. We'll have plenty of opportunity to stop and take pictures, enjoy wading on the shorelines, and more. Our guides will offer paddling and fishing instruction for everyone who is interested. After our trip we'll stop to enjoy a local restaurant or ice cream stand. No previous canoe or kayak experience necessary!

Transportation

• Transportation departing near Barclay's center and Grand Central

Breakfast

• Fresh fruit,
• Donuts,
• Coffee
• Tea

Lunch

• Healthy gourmet lunch and snacks
• Vegetarian and vegan options available

Packing list

• Your guide will reach out 7-10 days before your adventure with an update on trail conditions, weather, a suggested packing list, and more

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4. Slide Mountain

Slide Mountain is the tallest peak in the Catskills, but also one of the most accessible 3500' peaks. The trail up Slide is well maintained and well graded, with beautiful geology and rock formations to explore along the way, as well as a few slices of Catskills history. This hike generally offers more rewards for less effort than any other in the Catskills, not to mention one of the most refreshing mountain springs just past the summit.

Transportation

• Transportation departing near Barclay's center and Grand Central

Breakfast

• Fresh fruit,
• Donuts,
• Coffee
• Tea

Lunch

• Healthy gourmet lunch and snacks
• Vegetarian and vegan options available

Packing list

• Your guide will reach out 7-10 days before your adventure with an update on trail conditions, weather, a suggested packing list, and more

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5. Giant Ledge & Panther

Giant Ledge is considered one of the best hikes in New York State. After visiting the many sweeping viewpoints on Giant Ledge, we'll continue on to the magical spruce-fir forest cloaking the summit of Panther. A more challenging hike, the path to Panther has a few fun, rocky scrambles and steep sections. With multiple micro-climates across the hike, we'll get great views of peak foliage throughout the day.

Transportation

• Transportation departing near Barclay's center and Grand Central

Breakfast

• Fresh fruit,
• Donuts,
• Coffee
• Tea

Lunch

• Healthy gourmet lunch and snacks
• Vegetarian and vegan options available

Packing list

• Your guide will reach out 7-10 days before your adventure with an update on trail conditions, weather, a suggested packing list, and more

Learn More...

6. Indian Head & Twin

A great first taste of the Devil’s Path, this day hike takes us to the summit of the first two peaks on the eastern side of the Devil's Path, Indian Head and Twin. This challenging hike is filled with scrambles, steep climbs, and absolutely stunning trails, leading to multiple excellent viewpoints.

Transportation

• Transportation departing near Barclay's center and Grand Central

Breakfast

• Fresh fruit,
• Donuts,
• Coffee
• Tea

Lunch

• Healthy gourmet lunch and snacks
• Vegetarian and vegan options available

Packing list

• Your guide will reach out 7-10 days before your adventure with an update on trail conditions, weather, a suggested packing list, and more

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7. City Lights Sailing

See the world’s most famous skyline light up the night. This city lights cruise is the perfect way to enjoy an evening on the water with friends and family. Sit back and relax as you take in the beautiful sights from the water. Spot iconic landmarks and enjoy the view of New York City lit up at night.

Sail

• Manhattan skylines

Beverages

• beer, wine and mixed drinks available for purchase

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8. Brooklyn Heights, Brooklyn Bridge & DUMBO Food Tour

Explore and learn about this historic and lively borough with a guided walk through some of the best of Brooklyn: Brooklyn Heights, Brooklyn Promenade + Park and DUMBO. This tour offers spectacular vistas of the Statue of Liberty, the Manhattan skyline and the majestic Brooklyn Bridge. You will also see famous landmark Jane’s Carousel, a wooden, 48-horse carousel that was built in 1922. And the best part is we will see it all while enjoying extremely popular, local food!

Food stops on the tour

• Lassen & Hennigs: Enjoy a delicious pastry from a historic Brooklyn Deli
• Julianna’s or Ignacio’s Pizza: World famous pizza, with an amazing view!
• Dawn’s Til Dusk: Local favorite for out of this world whoopie pies!
• Los Tacos Al Pastor: hidden gem for authentic tacos
• The Maiz Project at the TimeOut Market: Venezuelan tequenos bring a punch of flavor to the tour!

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9. Best of Minnewaska State Park

On this gentle day hike, we'll visit some of our favorite destinations in Minnewaska State Park at a slow and leisurely pace, including Lake Minnewaska and a few stunning viewpoints over the dramatic Shawangunk ledges. This is the perfect hike for beginners looking to venture out of NYC for their first hiking experience. The Nature Conservancy named Minnewaska “One of the Last Great Places on Earth” and we'll explore all the reasons why with incredible views, and crystal clear "sky lakes."

Transportation

• Transportation departing near Barclay's center and Grand Central

Breakfast

• Fresh fruit,
• Donuts,
• Coffee
• Tea

Lunch

• Healthy gourmet lunch and snacks
• Vegetarian and vegan options available

Packing list

• Your guide will reach out 7-10 days before your adventure with an update on trail conditions, weather, a suggested packing list, and more

Learn More...

Conclusion

New York City's magic lies in its ability to surprise even the most seasoned locals. The hidden gardens, secret bars, and underground venues we've shared represent just a fraction of NYC's undiscovered treasures. These spots create the authentic pulse of the city - the real New York that exists beyond the bright lights of Times Square.

You'll find the city's true character in these lesser-known corners:

• A peaceful moment at the Ford Foundation Garden
• A sake-fueled evening at Decibel
• An impromptu comedy show in a basement venue
• A breathtaking sunset from the Roosevelt Island Tramway

Each secret spot adds a new layer to your understanding of this complex city. The best way to experience NYC is to venture off the beaten path, talk to locals, and create your own discoveries. The city rewards curious explorers with unexpected delights - hidden waterfalls, speakeasy entrances disguised as phone booths, and rooftop gardens that feel worlds away from the bustling streets below.

These local secrets aren't meant to stay hidden - they're waiting for you to find them.

FAQs

1. Are these hidden NYC experiences accessible to tourists, or are they only for locals?

These experiences are absolutely accessible to tourists! While locals may frequent these spots, many welcome curious visitors—just remember to be respectful of the space and atmosphere, especially in more low-key or community-centered places.

2. Do I need to book these outdoor activities and excursions in advance?

Yes, especially for hikes like Slide Mountain or Giant Ledge & Panther, and water experiences like City Lights Sailing. Most of these include transportation and meals, so advance booking ensures you get a spot and proper prep from guides.

3. What should I bring for the hiking and kayaking trips?

Your guide will send a packing list in advance, but in general, wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing, good hiking shoes, and bring water, sunscreen, and your camera. For kayak trips, quick-dry clothes and a towel are smart additions.

4. Are these activities suitable for all fitness levels?

Some are more relaxed, like the Skyline Outdoor Cinema or City Lights Sailing, while others—such as Indian Head & Twin or Giant Ledge & Panther—involve moderate to strenuous hiking. Always check the description and choose based on your comfort and ability level.

5. Are these places easy to find, or are they truly hidden?

Many of them are hidden in plain sight—like speakeasies with disguised entrances or parks tucked behind buildings. A bit of local research (or asking a friendly New Yorker) can go a long way in helping you discover them. Once you know where to look, the adventure begins.