Discover Hidden Gems: Upper West Side Secrets
megan li
ART BEAN Genuinely might be my favorite cup of coffee in the city. I can’t believe their pandan and Ube lattes are so yummy because this is def on the list of must visits every time I go to NYC!
Little Kid Big City NEW YORK
Planet Playskool is officially open, and it is a must-visit! Planet Playskool is a game changer for family entertainment. It’s the perfect mix - a nostalgic (beloved!) memory for parents, and an innovative new way to play for kids. The design is brilliant and beautifully created, with over 20,000 square feet of fun! The larger-than-life attractions are inspired by your favorite Hasbro toys: Play-Doh, PJ Masks, Mouse Trap, Spirograph, Tinkertoy, Transformers, and more. (I still can’t get over the giant Mouse Trap!). Here’s a few favorites: •Build your own Tinkertoy car and race it down a track •Climb, crawl and slide through a life-size version of Mouse Trap •Hop on a bike for a wild ride with Transformers •Mold your own figure and watch it come alive at the Play-Doh Theater •And SO MUCH MORE Hungry? There’s even an Easy Bake Cafe on site for a yummy bite! It’s a fun way to keep you and your kids entertained for hours (trust me, they will not want to leave!).
Secret NYC
Located in Brooklyn, The Prospect Park Zoo and its 12-acre facility features more than 125 species of animals and family-friendly exhibits that are perfect for kids of all ages. Check out fun exhibits like the Sea Lion Court, where you can observe these majestic mammals in their true element or the The Hall of Animals, which showcases some of the smallest, yet most exciting animals in the zoo, such as the poison dart frog or fennec fox. Or maybe even end your trip with The Discovery Trail, a walkthrough of everything from red pandas to dingos. While you’re in the area, be sure to check out other attractions too like the Brooklyn Botanical Garden and the Brooklyn Museum!
Time Out New York
Find Little Paris on Centre Street, between Broome and Grand Street. Even the stars of Emily in Paris have hung out in this neighborhood, and if it's Chef Gabriel-endorsed, you know it's legit. Interestingly, the lack of a specified space for Francophiles in Manhattan wasn't always the case. In the late 19th Century, Soho had its own French Quarter, as chronicled in an 1879 issue of Scribner's Monthly: "The people are nearly all French. French too is the language of the signs over the doors and in the windows." Ready to dive into the Paris-within-Manhattan? Here are a few French businesses in Little Paris to check out whether you're celebrating the Paris Olympics or just saying "oui" to a French experience without crossing the pond.
New York City Dreamland
Prima Brooklyn Wine Bar: coffee and wine in Clinton Hill And the people who make Prima! Our weird and wonderful little café wine bar first date solo date group date chess knit natural dye poetry reading chef pop up Caribbean lively leaky wholesome wild whirlwind of a place.
THE ROOFTOP GUIDE
Elsie Rooftop really brings a slice of fashionable 1920s cocktail bar to the heart of Midtown Manhattan. Set on the 25th floor of an office building near Bryant Park, the rooftop comes with an upscale and glamorous indoor lounge, surrounded by a wraparound terrace overlooking the Manhattan skyscrapers. The rooftop bar serves progressive mixology cocktails, along with wines, champagne and an upscale seasonally focused light fare menu.
newyorkcity.explore
Discover the vibrant umbrella installation at Hillel Place Plaza! 🌂🌈✨ 💡 Located in the heart of Brooklyn, the colorful umbrellas at Hillel Place Plaza create a stunning and whimsical canopy that transforms the space into a lively and artistic oasis. This installation not only adds a splash of color to the urban landscape but also provides a unique backdrop for photos and a joyful atmosphere for visitors. Whether you're strolling through the plaza, relaxing under the umbrellas, or enjoying the surrounding shops and cafes, this installation brings a sense of fun and creativity to the neighborhood.
See also
Discover the Best Dining in St. George Near NYC: Local Dining Experiences & Foodie Favorites
Secret NYC
Explore an incredible 15,000-square-foot museum filled with Banksy-inspired art! Calling all Banksy-heads and street art lovers: embrace the legacy of one of history’s greatest street at NYC’s Banksy Museum filled with the largest collection of work inspired by his creations! Uncover his unique pieces of work and get a deeper look into the mysterious artist. The production available at the museum is unauthorised and unaffiliated with the artist.
Mingomatic
🏮 Explore the Vibrant Chinatown in Manhattan! 🏮 Step into a world of rich culture, history, and amazing flavors in Chinatown, Manhattan. From bustling markets and colorful storefronts to delicious dim sum and traditional tea houses, there's something magical around every corner. 🏙️✨ Stroll through the vibrant streets, visit unique shops, and immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of this iconic neighborhood. Don’t forget to check out landmarks like the Mahayana Buddhist Temple and Columbus Park! 🕍🌳
Discover Local Hotspots on the Upper West Side Near NYC
Looking to explore the vibrant Upper West Side near NYC? The neighborhood is teeming with hidden gems and secret hotspots that even the locals adore. From quaint cafes to bustling street fairs, there's always something new to discover. Let's dive into some local favorites and trending spots you'll surely want to check out.
Explore Riverside Park
One can't truly say they've experienced the Upper West Side without taking a stroll through Riverside Park. Stretching along the Hudson River, this scenic park offers not only breathtaking views but also a wealth of activities. Locals suggest visiting during the early morning hours for a peaceful walk or jog, as you'll get to catch the sunrise shimmering over the water. Don't miss the historic Soldiers' and Sailors' Monument, a favorite landmark where many locals go for contemplation and relaxation.
Hidden Gems in the West Side Market
For your culinary adventures, the West Side Market is a must-visit. This local hotspot is a treasure trove of gourmet foods, fresh produce, and unique treats. Our anonymous insights from Kikihub users recommend the sushi counter for some of the best rolls in the city, while the cheese section is a paradise for turophiles. On weekends, you might even stumble upon a farmer's market just outside, offering farm-fresh produce and artisanal goods.
Step Back in Time at the American Museum of Natural History
While the American Museum of Natural History may seem like a well-known attraction, it's filled with lesser-known exhibits and secrets. For instance, the museum's early expeditions section often gets overshadowed by more popular displays but is a fascinating peek into historic explorations. Kids—and let's face it, adults—will love the colossal dinosaur exhibits. A tip from local favorites: visit during weekday afternoons to avoid the crowded weekends.
Savor the Street Eats on Amsterdam Avenue
Amsterdam Avenue is rife with some of the best street food in the city. From decadent food trucks to family-run stalls, this hotspot is a culinary exploration waiting to happen. Local favorites from Kikihub chats include the falafel stand near 96th Street, lauded for its authentic flavors and generous servings. Another hidden gem is the Belgian waffle truck near 84th Street—perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth.
Cultural Immersion at Symphony Space
If you're a fan of performing arts, Symphony Space is the place to be. This cultural center boasts an array of events, from intriguing plays to intimate concerts. Thanks to Kikihub's anonymous insights, we've learned that the Leonard Nimoy Thalia Theatre inside Symphony Space often hosts indie film screenings and intellectual discussions that are not to be missed. Locals highly recommend keeping an eye on their event calendar for hidden gems.
Outdoor Adventure at The Great Hill
For those seeking outdoor adventure, The Great Hill in Central Park is an unparalleled experience. Located at the northern end of the park, this area is less frequented by tourists, making it a perfect green spot for picnics and quiet walks. Anonymous insights suggest that autumn is the best time to explore this hidden gem, as the foliage turns the area into a kaleidoscope of reds and golds.
Make sure to leverage the local anonymous chats on Kikihub to gain additional insights and real opinions about the Upper West Side. From anonymous locals, you'll get up-to-date recommendations and secrets, enhancing your Upper West Side adventure.
