The Lifelong New Yorker’s Guide To Summer In The City

There are a few New York City landmarks that (naturally) get quite a bit of love from the history books and pop culture, so it makes sense why visitors from around the world often try to cross those off of their lists first — they’re popular for a reason. But longtime New Yorkers will tell you that part of what makes their city so great is the treasure trove of slightly lesser-known sites to discover. There are so many, in fact, that even lifelong New Yorkers can find something new and exciting every day. To see New York even better than a local, try the following: Explore neighborhood “secrets”; try out places that aren’t featured on every TV show set in the City; and for the love of pizza, venture beyond Manhattan and sample the best of all five boroughs.

Here are 10 gems that you definitely need to see on your next trip to New York City.

1. The Cloisters

Far on the north end of Manhattan is an idyllic haven of medieval architecture surrounded by the tranquil Fort Tryon Park. The Cloisters houses one of the foremost collections of medieval art, and it will feel a world and an era away from the rest of New York City. The Garden Tour comes highly recommended.

2. Authentic International Food In Queens

Queens is a vibrant borough that should be on every visitor’s must-see list. Diverse in every imaginable way, it’s especially ideal for foodies who appreciate true authenticity. As a major center of New York City’s Asian population, there are countless unassuming-yet-delicious restaurants from all over. From Indonesian cuisine in Elmhurst, to Thai food that’s not your average takeout in Woodside, to the City’s other Chinatown in Flushing, you can explore food from the other side of the world without needing a passport.

3. Bronx Museum Of The Arts

The Bronx is thriving with artistic innovation that’s epitomized by the more than 1,000 works on display at the Bronx Museum. It’s a truly New York experience, as it focuses on local artists and underrepresented artists of all backgrounds.

4. Brooklyn Pizza

Of course, we can’t talk about New York without talking about pizza. Although you’re likely to have a world-class experience walking into pizza joints in any borough, Brooklyn has some of the most revered and varied pie-purveyors in the city, from generations-old institutions to newer hotspots. Be ready for long waits, though, whether you’re at a paper-plate spot or a more upscale establishment.

5. The Frick Museum

The Frick Museum may be smaller than some other museums, but it just screams class (while not actually screaming; keep it quiet in there). If you’re like us and love museums but prefer to be in and out pretty fast, the Frick is perfect — it’s totally manageable in an hour or two, although there’s enough to keep you occupied for much longer. Plus, it feels especially intimate, as props like selfie-sticks are not permitted.

6. Astoria Park

Situated right on the East River with glorious views of Manhattan, this scenic park may look like a typical place to lay out a blanket and relax, but it also boasts proximity to the great Greek restaurants and beer gardens that Astoria is known for.

7. Boardwalk In Staten Island South Beach

If we’re being honest, the bread and butter of any trip is being able to wander around aimlessly and making unexpected discoveries. The South Beach Boardwalk in Staten Island is a perfect place to do just that while taking in views of the water.

8. Green-Wood Cemetery

You don’t need to feel macabre while planning a trip to Green-Wood Cemetery. Under-appreciated by both locals and visitors, guided tours can give you a comprehensive journey through the city’s history by learning who’s interred there. Plus, there are often special events and concerts in its gorgeous mausoleums and crypts.

9. The Bronx Zoo

So the Bronx Zoo may not exactly be off the radar, but plenty of longtime New Yorkers have never actually visited. Witness penguin and sea lion feedings, have a close encounter with a cheetah, or try out an aerial ropes course.

10. Staten Island FerryHawks

Take in a baseball game at SIUH Community Park, the home of the brand new team Staten Island FerryHawks, which is breaking ground by featuring a woman player. Located right off the Staten Island Ferry and laying claim to perhaps the best views of any baseball stadium in the country, you can practically feel the New York pride vibrating among the crowd.