A typical trip to NYC often includes several stops at the city’s various and plentiful famous landmarks.
After all, you haven’t been to the Big Apple without gazing at the skyline from the observation deck on the 102nd floor or an excursion to the Statue of Liberty. These are must-see sights, especially for first-time visitors, but New York City also has some hidden gems you are not going to find in most guidebooks.
To ensure you make the most out of your trip, take some time to uncover the secrets of NYC with sightseeing tours. They offer a unique and one-of-a-kind way to take in The Big Apple as you’ve never seen it before.
Superheroes in New York Walking Tour
New York City is home to a diverse population, which even includes the occasional superhero from popular Marvel and DC comics. The Superheroes in New York Walking Tour takes you through Manhattan, stopping at locations where memorable scenes from your favorite movies were shot.
The two-hour guided walking tour passes by famous landmarks like Times Square, the Empire State Building, and Rockefeller Center. Your guide will point out locations where iconic scenes were filmed. Pose on the same street corner as Spiderman or pretend to be an Avenger as you pass by the MetLife Building. It doubles as Avenger Tower in the widely successful movie franchise.
During the walking tour, your guide will keep you entertained with fun facts about the movies. You may even learn something new about your favorite superhero. It’s a fun way to experience the city and learn something new.
Hamilton & Washington in New York City: Secrets of the Past
Explore some of New York City’s hidden gems in this two-hour walking tour and learn more about two of the most famous figures from America’s past. You’ll pass by some of the city’s most famous historical places while learning more about the lives of Alexander Hamilton and George Washington.
The Hamilton & Washington in New York City: Secrets of the Past tour takes you down historic streets where you’ll pass the impressive Federal Hall National Monument and grand New York City Hall. Visit the Trinity Church and Francis Tavern, two places closely tied to the nation’s first Secretary of the Treasury. Alexander Hamilton spent some of his last moments here before his appointment with Aaron Burr.
Whether you are an NYC resident or visitor, this entertaining and informative tour will give you a greater appreciation of the city’s rich history.
Secret Places of Central Park
The largest park in New York City, it’s not surprising to learn it has a few hidden places. The Secret Places of Central Park walking tour takes you off of the well-traveled paths to show you areas even locals may not know about.
On the two-hour tour, you’ll learn about the storied park’s history, from its initial concept drafted back in the 1800s all the way to what the park is today. Visit hidden waterfalls and statues tucked away from view—discover secret gardens not listed on most park maps, and stop at iconic locations made famous in movies.
Don’t forget to bring your camera, you will want to take pictures of the stunning scenery. After the tour, stop in for a bite to eat at one of the fabulous restaurants along the park’s perimeter.
Tour of the Secrets of Grand Central Terminal
Compared to some of the other city tours, this one is relatively short. Lasting a little over an hour, you’ll learn there is more to Grand Central Station than being a busy hub for travelers.
The Secrets of Grand Central Terminal tour takes you back in history as you learn about the building’s awe-inspiring Beaux-Arts-style architecture. Your guide will reveal fascinating secrets of the building’s design and construction. Gaze in wonder at the stunning art located throughout the terminal, and marvel at the acoustics in the Whispering Gallery.
If you love people-watching, stop in the Main Concourse for a few minutes. You may even see a celebrity passing through. Don’t worry if you get hungry during or after the tour. Grand Central Terminal has everything from upscale dining and chef-inspired restaurants to casual eateries and fast food establishments. You can also get a little shopping at the boutiques and souvenir shops.
Brooklyn Revolution
Manhattan may be the most famous of NYC’s five boroughs, but it doesn’t mean the others are not worth a visit. One borough experiencing a cultural revolution is Brooklyn.
This slightly over two-hour walking tour starts out in the bustling Brooklyn neighborhood of Williamsburg. This trendy, up-and-coming area has some of the city’s best street art on display. From there, you walk over to Greenpoint, and you will want to bring your appetite. The Polish-influenced neighborhood offers some of the borough’s best cuisine. The tour stops in a local bakery before heading to Bushwick. The vibrant neighborhood is also famous for its colorful street art.
In each neighborhood, you have the opportunity to visit one of the local eateries. A local craft brewery is also on the tour’s itinerary. By the end of the Brooklyn Revolution tour, you’ll have a greater appreciation for the thriving borough.
One World Observatory and World Trade Center Tour
September 11 is a somber date that lives on in infamy for many Americans. In 2001, the country watched in horror as the Twin Towers fell following a terrorist attack. The One World Observatory and World Trade Center Tour helps pay homage to this day and the victims of these attacks.
The tour itself takes visitors to the 100th, 101st, and 102nd floors observation decks. You can enjoy panoramic views of the city’s skyline, while also learning more about the building’s history and symbolism. On top of this, you can enjoy unobstructed views of iconic neighborhoods and landmarks like the Empire State Building, the Statue of Liberty, and Central Park.
There are plenty of opportunities for pictures, so bring your camera. It’s also a good idea to wear comfortable shoes, seeing as the two-hour tour covers a lot of ground and you won’t want to miss a thing.
Discover NYC’s Hidden Secrets on a Guided Tour
New York City is home to multiple iconic landmarks, but the Big Apple also has secrets only a few locals know. Discover secret waterfalls in Central Park or learn more about the city from the viewpoints of Alexander Hamilton and George Washington.
Whichever tour you choose to embark on, you’ll learn something new, captivating, and exciting about the historic city that never sleeps. Book your own tour today and experience the real difference that a guided tour can make on your Big Apple journey.
This story originally appeared on Upscalelivingmag
