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New Yorkers Say You Should Visit These 5 Places


Offbeat New York: 5 Unusual & Quirky Destinations

Editor's Note: I reached out to New Yorkers and asked about places in New York City they think are great for tourists. Places mentioned in this article are based on the opinions of 5 New Yorkers.

Bayside Queens

Fort Totten
Fort Totten

 

 


Bayside, Queens may give off the vibe of a typical suburban community, but it's so much more than meets the eye. And among its hidden gems is Fort Totten, a place where marvel and wonder abound. If you're a Game of Thrones aficionado, you might recall the Iron Throne gracing Fort Totten's grounds in the past. But even without the iconic seat, the park still offers a bounty of activities to enjoy. Take a leisurely bike ride, a scenic walk, or a invigorating run along the awe-inspiring Little Neck Bay, all while soaking up the summer sun. And while you're there, be sure to visit the Bayside Historical Society, where a wealth of cultural events and historical exhibits await. The stunning architecture of the society's buildings is enough to make you feel as if you've been transported to another world.

Bell Boulevard
Bell Boulevard

When you make your way down to Bell Boulevard in Bayside, you'll find yourself in the center of all the action. Whether you're looking to try out some new restaurants, find fun things to do with friends, or pick up a new pair of glasses, Bell Boulevard has you covered. With plenty of stores lining the street, you'll always have something to do. Plus, the neighborhood is known for being clean and friendly, which makes it even better to live in Bayside.

 

Green-Wood Cemetery

Green-Wood Cemetery
Green-Wood Cemetery
Brooklyn's Green-Wood Cemetery is undoubtedly one of the most charming and historically significant sites in the borough, bordering the South Park Slope, Windsor Terrace, and Sunset Park neighborhoods. Since its founding in 1838, the cemetery has sprawled across more than 470 acres and has earned its rightful place as a National Historic Landmark. Despite any misgivings you may have about visiting an active cemetery, you simply must experience the exquisite, park-like surroundings of Green-Wood when you're in New York City. Venture to the hilly section, known as Battle Hill - the apex of Brooklyn - and take in the awe-inspiring views. As you enter the premises via the grand Fifth Avenue gateway, prepare to be enchanted by the Late Gothic-style architecture. The meticulously tended grounds are replete with verdant foliage and flowers that will leave you feeling restored and invigorated.
Green-Wood Cemetery
Green-Wood Cemetery is a lively hub of activity all year long, with a diverse range of entertaining events to enjoy. From musical concerts to exclusive tours for educators, from military reenactments to art exhibitions, and from theatrical readings to more, the cemetery always manages to charm its guests. It's a peaceful refuge for those seeking a leisurely walk, jog, sketch, or just some quiet time in nature. And the cemetery's roster of renowned figures buried here is reason enough to pay a visit. Among them are composer-conductor Leonard Bernstein, artist Jean-Michel Basquiat, actor Frank Morgan, best known for his role in "The Wizard of Oz," composer Louis Moreau Gottschalk, and inventor-college patron Peter Cooper. The cemetery is also the resting place of soldiers who served in various wars, including a group of Civil War veterans.

New-York Historical Society

New-York Historical Society
New-York Historical Society

You can't say you've truly experienced New York City until  you've visited its oldest museum, the New-York Historical Society, founded in 1904. Since 1908 it's been housed in a stately building on Central Park West. Just across the street is the American Museum of Natural History.

The Society, which includes a renowned library, has fascinating permanent collections and exhibits of artifacts and documents of New York City and American history, as well as artworks and a wonderful grouping of Tiffany glass pieces. The archives of the esteemed Gilder Lehrman Institute of American History are kept here. Visitors of all ages, from young children to adults, the general public and scholars, all come here to look and learn. There is a children's section, the Center for Women's History, and throughout the year there are many lectures, tours, performances and other special events.

New-York Historical Society

As a frequent visitor of the New-York Historical Society, I've had the pleasure of viewing numerous captivating exhibits throughout the years. From "Beer Here: Brewing New York's History" to "The Grateful Dead," "Now Playing," and "Muhammad Ali," "LeRoi Neiman," and the Art of Boxing." Each showcase has left a lasting impression on me. Of course, the "Batteries Not Included: Toys and Trains" exhibit was a personal favorite.

As I make my way into the museum, I can't help but notice the awe-inspiring entrance statues of Abraham Lincoln and Frederick Douglass. Passersby can't resist taking a quick snapshot or two, and who can blame them? These life-size figures truly command attention. After immersing myself in the rich history of the Society's exhibits, I always make it a point to stroll through Central Park. It's the perfect way to cap off a memorable day.

New World Mall Chinatown,Queens

New World Mall
New World Mall Food Court
Step into Chinatown of Flushing, Queens to feel like you've taken a trip into the Eastern world despite still being in America. Flushing holds the biggest Chinatown in New York and what really makes it stand out is the food and the Hong Kong vibes. Head over to New World Mall, which is just across the street once you get off the 7 train. Once you're in there, one of the best parts is the food court! Take the escalator down and smell the variety of freshly cooked Chinese food.
New World Mall Food Court
There's options for dumplings, noodles, hotpot, meat, vegetables and of course, boba! They taste super delicious and authentic. Another great part of New World Mall is its supermarket where you can buy some food to prepare at your bed and breakfast or for some snacks to pack up. It's filled with the freshest fruits, vegetables, meat and live seafood. They also have a wide range of Asian products and their prices are relatively cheaper than other supermarkets. In New World Mall, you will experience the melting pot of Asian culture amidst the bustling city life in New York.

Cantina Rooftop

 

Cantina Rooftop
Cantina Rooftop
Cantina Rooftop is among the noisy midtown Manhattan a spot to disconnect and relax. The venue is ubicated at 605 W 48th St, and belongs to the rooftop of the seven floors of Stage 48 club. This is a place destined for the outdoors and great food (try the Mexican food the venue offers). Under a colorful decoration with rainbows umbrellas, and the  freshness of holding plants  the public appreciates Latin music, and the latest hip-hop  radio hits while having longer conversations.
Cantina Rooftop food
The Chef Saul Montiel is in charge of the restaurant's food. Cantina Rooftop represents a new  generation of New Yorkers that will not accept a simple restaurant because they are looking for a pleasant environment, and a fun ambient to bring friends and family. The distribution of tables and the rooftop location in Hell Kitchen gives this venue the feeling of oasis. A modern concept of dinner for New York nightlife and its necessities. Cantina Rooftop is more than a rooftop.

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