Unusual & Offbeat Destinations in Manhattan, United States
1. The Museum of Broken Relationships
A museum filled with mementos donated by people who have experienced the end of their relationships. Each item has a story attached.
- Emotional Exploration: Provides an emotional journey through the stories of failed relationships.
- Unique Artifacts: Displays a collection of unique and personal artifacts from various relationships.
- Interactive Experience: Offers an interactive experience where visitors can share their own stories.
2. The Cloisters
A museum located in Upper Manhattan that focuses on the art and architecture of medieval Europe. It's built around five cloisters from monastic ruins in France and Spain.
- Medieval History: Offers a unique glimpse into the history, art, and architecture of medieval Europe.
- Architectural Marvel: Features authentic cloisters from medieval European monasteries.
- Quiet Retreat: Provides a tranquil, quiet space for reflection and relaxation in the heart of Manhattan.
3. The Slice Pizza Watson's
A 24/7 pizzeria that serves New York-style pizza. It's been open since 1924 and is a classic Manhattan institution.
- Historical Significance: One of the oldest pizzerias in New York City.
- Authentic Experience: Offers a classic, authentic Manhattan pizza experience.
- Round-the-Clock Service: Stays open 24/7 for those late-night pizza cravings.
4. The Mmuseumm
A museum dedicated to the ephemera of everyday life. It showcases artifacts from various eras and institutions.
- Everyday Life Exploration: Offers an exploration of the artifacts, stories, and objects that make up our everyday lives.
- Ephemera Collection: Displays a collection of ephemeral items from various institutions and eras.
- Rotating Exhibits: Features rotating exhibits to keep the content fresh and engaging.
5. The Secret Room at The Campbell Apartment
A hidden gem located in Grand Central Terminal, this room was once the private office of John W. Campbell Jr., the president of the terminal.
- Historic Ambiance: Offers a taste of Manhattan's history with its Gilded Age ambiance.
- Hidden Gem: A hidden, tucked-away gem within Grand Central Terminal.
- Exclusive Access: Provides exclusive access to a space that was once the private office of a prominent figure.
6. The Spuyten Duyvil Bridge
A historic bridge located in Inwood Hill Park. It's one of the oldest surviving stone bridges in New York City.
- Historic Significance: One of the oldest surviving stone bridges in New York City.
- Natural Beauty: Located within the lush and scenic Inwood Hill Park.
- Rare Architecture: Features a unique, arch-barrel design that's seldom seen in modern bridge construction.
7. The City Reliquary
A small, community-based museum that collects and preserves artifacts related to the history of New York City.
- Community Connection: Celebrates the rich and diverse history of New York City through its community.
- Local Artifacts: Displays a collection of artifacts that tell the story of New York City's neighborhoods.
- Small and Intimate: A small, intimate museum that fosters a personal connection with its visitors.
8. The Mermaid Parade
An annual parade held in Coney Island that celebrates art, sea creatures, and the spirit of Coney Island.
- Cultural Celebration: A vibrant celebration of art, culture, and the unique spirit of Coney Island.
- Sea Creature Themes: Features elaborate costumes, floats, and music based on sea creatures and ocean themes.
- Community Participation: Encourages participation from the local community and visitors alike.
9. The High Line
An elevated park built on a historic freight rail line. It offers stunning views of the city and the Hudson River.
- Urban Green Space: Provides an urban oasis amidst the concrete jungle.
- Repurposed Space: Demonstrates the creative repurposing of industrial spaces.
- Stunning Views: Offers breathtaking views of the city and the Hudson River.
10. The Tenement Museum
A museum that tells the stories of immigrant families who lived in a single tenement building on the Lower East Side.
- Immigrant History: Offers an insightful look into the lives of immigrants in New York City.
- Authentic Experience: Provides an authentic experience of what life was like for immigrant families.
- Historical Preservation: Preserves the history and stories of immigrants who built New York City.
11. The Vessel
A modern sculpture located in Hudson Yards. It's made up of 154 interconnected staircases and offers stunning views of the city.
- Architectural Wonder: An architectural marvel designed by Thomas Heatherwick.
- Interactive Experience: Provides an interactive experience through its winding staircases.
- Stunning Views: Offers breathtaking views of the city and Hudson Yards.
12. The Unisphere
A giant globe located in Flushing Meadows-Corona Park. It was built for the 1964 World's Fair.
- Historic Significance: Built for the 1964 World's Fair, it symbolizes unity among nations.
- Giant Sphere: A massive stainless-steel sphere that measures 120 feet in diameter.
- Iconic Symbol: An iconic symbol of Queens and a popular spot for photos.
13. The Unisphere Grill
A restaurant located near the Unisphere. It offers a unique dining experience with views of the globe.
- Dining with a View: Offers a unique dining experience with views of the iconic Unisphere.
- American Comfort Food: Serves American comfort food in a casual, relaxed atmosphere.
- Historic Neighborhood: Located in the historic Flushing Meadows-Corona Park.
14. The New York City Ferry
A ferry service that offers an alternative way to explore the city. It connects various neighborhoods and provides stunning views of Manhattan.
- Alternative Transportation: Offers an alternative mode of transportation for exploring the city.
- Stunning Views: Provides breathtaking views of Manhattan and its various waterfront neighborhoods.
- Affordable and Convenient: Affordable and convenient, with routes connecting various neighborhoods.
15. The FDNY Fire Zone Memorial
A memorial dedicated to the firefighters who lost their lives in the line of duty. It's located at the site of the former Fire Academy.
- Honoring Heroes: Honors the brave men and women who have served as firefighters in New York City.
- Historic Significance: Located at the site of the former Fire Academy, it's a piece of Manhattan's history.
- Moving Tribute: Provides a moving tribute to the fallen heroes of the FDNY.