Unusual things to do in New York City

Author: Matt Preston Become a contributor

New York City’s myriad of possibilities is a tourist’s dream, no matter where tastes lie. Almost everyone has seen or heard of Times Square, the Empire State Building, Central Park and the rest of the main tourist attractions. On your next visit, stray off the beaten path a bit and do as the locals do. NYC’s culture lies beyond the skyscrapers and financial districts; it lies in the foods, hole-in-the-wall locales and the pulsing energy that the metropolitan area exudes. The next time you visit, hop on the subway, be a bit spontaneous and explore more than Manhattan island. Here are some great and slightly unusual things to do in New York City just to get you started:

Go on a culinary adventure

New York City’s population is approximately 8 million and it is quite possibly the most gastronomically diverse city in the world. It is a foodie’s dream but even as a casual tourist, venture out and treat yourself to a new cuisine. Leave Manhattan behind to try flavorful Colombian food at the Bogota Latin Bistro in Brooklyn, for example. The enclosed patio and lively atmosphere gives it a great Latin vibe, complementing the food. From the bright and classic Times Square, make your way a few blocks over to the Queen of Sheba restaurant for an authentic Ethiopian experience. Of course, one cannot go to NYC without experiencing the famous pizza. For the Italian classic, head to Spring Street for Lombardi’s Pizza, which is regarded as America’s first pizzeria, established in 1905.

Revel in real books at Strand

If you are a bit old-fashioned and still enjoy holding real books in your hands, Strand Bookstore in the East Village of Manhattan will take your breath away from the moment you walk in. Strand’s famous advertisement is that they carry “18 Miles of Books” and its vast collection of new, rare, used, out-of-print, and publisher’s overstock clearly merits this statement. Boasting the city’s largest inventory of books, Strand has been a favorite amongst New Yorkers since 1927. Also, If you are craving a new read, their fantastic “Curated Collections” feature gives a look into the must-reads and recommendations from Strand’s most revered artists and authors.

Kayak Governor’s Island

While the crowds pack the ferries, why not try another way of crossing waters? Governor’s Island offers free kayaking on the weekends, in addition to lots of history, art exhibits and performances – many of which are also free! Governor’s Island was an American military base for nearly 200 years and features two military forts from the 1800′s era, clearly standing out from the city. Kayak along the Atlantic while taking in stunning views of the Statue of Liberty and the New York City skyline, perhaps pack a lunch for a picnic in the park or rent a bike to car-free cruise around in the sunshine.

Stroll as if in a small European city

When you feel like you have seen plenty of skyscrapers and bustling crowds, head to West Village off 14^th Street and West Houston. Giving off the vibe of a small European city, West Village gives a break from the uniform-like, grid layout of NYC with its narrow streets and bohemian feel. It is calmer, more manageable and nestled between the quaint townhouses; you’ll see courtyards, gardens, independently owned stores and can discover restaurants while you’re there, too.

This is just a taste the heaps of art, culture, food, music and shopping to be seen and done. New York City can be expensive but you don’t have to break the bank on your visits here. Check out holidayapartments.net to save on accommodations during your next visit to NYC. Enjoy the Big Apple!