There’s so much more to NYC than just the big sights – and experiencing this hidden history is a great way to enjoy NYC while avoiding crowds.
New York City is crying out for tourists. According to Business Insider, the city is still waiting for its tourist levels to reach pre-pandemic heights, and that’s creating a lot of value for tourists – things are more affordable, travel is cheaper, and there’s more to do in a somewhat less congested Big Apple. The bigger attractions, like Times Square and the Empire State Building, feature smaller crowds and shorter queues. That being said, there’s so much more to NYC than just the big sights – and experiencing this hidden history is a great way to enjoy NYC while avoiding crowds.
Historical restaurants
New York City is one of the biggest melting pots anywhere in the world, and where diversity happens, so does good food. In the downturn of the pandemic, high-quality restaurants and new ideas flourished, according to The New Yorker, leading to a raft of amazing new eateries. However, whereas the new eateries are fantastic and earn the headlines, the best of New York City food has its foundations in its oldest spots. This includes the Fraunces Tavern, in the Financial District, and the Ear Inn, Soho, that was founded way back in 1817. The food here is simple, local, and delicious, and gives a real taste of what eating out would have been like back in the formative years of the city and, indeed, the country.
Wartime roots
The city has a long maritime history, which is obvious given its geographical location. One result of this is the Snug Harbor Cultural Center. Located on Staten Island, it was once a retirement home for aging sailors according to Time Out. Today, it’s a cultural center and distinctive garden complex that can impart a little history on the visitor without having the crowds of, say, the New York Botanical Garden. That offers respite and gorgeous sights all with some historical information.
Relying on the locals
According to British lifestyle magazine Stylist, one of the best ways you can experience the city is through locals. Rather than opting for travel company afforded trips, head to AirBnB and similar websites to find local guided tours. Many will be free, or for a simple gratuity, and certainly more competitive than the rates on overpacked tourist schedules. Furthermore, you can have a little more nuance with your trip. It’s easier to pick when and where you’re going to visit the city, and who’s going to show you around – letting you change the entire focus of your trip. This is the best way to get involved with the community of the city and ensure you have a long and fruitful trip, making every minute count.
New York City has millions of inhabitants – the tourist industry that directs millions of visitors to the same features is there for a reason, helping to build a network and to manage the city with influxes. However, those millions of citizens can also help in creating hand-crafted trips that will help you to experience The Big Apple with style.
Photo by Ben Wicks on Unsplash
Tatiana is the news coordinator for TravelDailyNews Media Network (traveldailynews.gr, traveldailynews.com and traveldailynews.asia). Her role includes monitoring the hundreds of news sources of TravelDailyNews Media Network and skimming the most important according to our strategy.
She holds a Bachelor's degree in Communication & Mass Media from Panteion University of Political & Social Studies of Athens and she has been editor and editor-in-chief in various economic magazines and newspapers.
