Sightseeing New York could never get boring no matter how many times you’ve visited the city. It really is the town that never sleeps and, no matter where you are and at what time, there will be something for you to see and do in the Big Apple. But sometimes once you’ve explored all the usual suspects of sightseeing, New York beckons you in a little deeper to get to know some of her more secret haunts. If you’re up for an adventure and aren’t afraid to swerve off the beaten track, these may be right up your alley…

Please Don’t Tell

If you’re sightseeing New York in the East Village and happen to wander into Criff Dogs (a non-descript hot dog shop), don’t make the mistake of trying to make a call in the squishy phone booth inside the store. This is actually the secret entrance to “Please Don’t Tell”, an exclusive “speakeasy” style bar. If you pick up the phone you will be connected to staff who will inform you of a wait time (usually about and hour or so!), but once admitted into this highly exclusive club you won’t be disappointed. The tiny venue has a wonderfully intimate atmosphere and with cool music, good food and imaginative cocktails it is a great place for a laidback night out in the city.

Movies with a View

While you’re out sightseeing New York after dark, for something completely different head down to the Brooklyn Bridge and, as well as being able to enjoy one of New York’s best illuminations, you can settle in under the stars for a screening of a classic movie. Preceded by DJs spinning some mellow tunes, by the time the feature film is run you’ll be chilled out and entranced by the atmosphere and the incredible front-seat views of the NYC waterfront.

Whatever Floats your Boat

This little gem is not only fun, but it’s free as well. The Downtown Boathouse is an organisation dedicated to providing free access for everyone to the fabulous New York harbour. The idea is that in such a built up city as New York, everyone should have the opportunity for recreation on the water, and the organisation does this by providing free kayaking. There are various locations set up at piers around the harbour and you can just show up and take out a kayak for a joyride around the water. It’s a great way to go sightseeing New York’s beautiful harbour and the only requirement is that you must be able to swim. Lifejackets and lessons are provided and all that’s left is for you to set off and have some good, clean fun.

Life on Mars

For an experience that’s positively out of this world, head to the Mars restaurant. Mixing fantasy and food, this place has been around for years and has become somewhat of a New York family tradition. As the name suggests, the restaurant is space-themed so don’t be surprised when an alien takes your order. Mars 2112 recreates a futuristic meal on Mars complete with space-shuttle ride to get there. Once you’ve finished sightseeing New York, come and sightsee on Mars!

Author Bio: Marta Sanders-Cooper is the New York Destination Expert for Shorex, specialising in unique and unmissable, expert-led tours & excursions in major cities around the world, for the best in city sightseeing. New York tours are custom made and constructed from an extensive menu of activities, attractions and excursions, many of which are unique to Shorex.com.

Category: Travel
Keywords: sightseeing. New York