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New York City is a bustling metropolis that offers an abundance of attractions for visitors—from renowned museums and restaurants helmed by celebrity chefs to unique shopping experiences and quirky installations. While the vibrant energy of this “city that never sleeps” is thrilling, some people may prefer to experience New York in a more genuine light.
This is where the charming, lesser-known spots come into play, brimming with historical importance, engaging activities, and delightful surprises waiting to be discovered. The wonders of New York City are endless, featuring everything from the interactive spy-themed attraction SPYSCAPE, to the architectural wonder of the Whispering Gallery, and America’s oldest apothecary. Venture beyond the dazzling lights of Times Square and Broadway, and discover the distinctive allure that can only be found in New York. LUXUO presents a collection of unique experiences and historical treasures to explore for the ultimate visit to the “Big Apple.”
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SPYSCAPE
SPYSCAPE is a perfect choice for those seeking a hands-on experience, especially families with children or teenagers. This museum diverges from traditional expectations filled with ancient artifacts or classic artwork, instead offering an entirely interactive spy-themed environment. Upon entering, visitors embark on a secretive adventure through seven gallery zones, each designed to challenge their problem-solving abilities, physical fitness, and mental skills while exploring their individual personality traits.
The immersive experience showcases challenges developed by MI6 trainers, including lie detection, code-breaking, laser dodging, and surveillance skills. Attendees can also view original, rare spy artifacts such as the notorious German Enigma machine and iconic fictional gadgets like James Bond’s DB5. The fun culminates with guests leaving equipped with a spy persona and a 40-page profile crafted by MI6 psychologists highlighting their unique traits and skills. Conveniently located in midtown Manhattan, near Central Park, SPYSCAPE is a must-visit attraction.
Tannen’s Magic Store
Experience the enchanting world of Tannen’s Magic Shop, the oldest operating magic store in the United States, which first opened its doors in 1925. This whimsical shop retains many of its nostalgic elements, including a “Secret Back Room” and a large elephant prop. For magic aficionados, Tannen’s is a treasure trove, featuring shelves filled with Louis Tannen’s famous Mystery Boxes, magician’s straitjackets, and a close-knit community of fellow magicians who meet in this unassuming spot. Renowned figures such as David Blaine, David Copperfield, and even the legendary boxer Muhammad Ali have frequented this shop. Additionally, Tannen’s hosts weekly late-night magic shows, making it the perfect venue for a memorable, interactive evening.
Artechhouse NYC
While New York City is home to celebrated museums like The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) and the American Museum of Natural History, another unique destination to consider is Artechhouse NYC, where art, science, and technology intersect. This innovative venue allows visitors to immerse themselves in the captivating realm of experimental art.
Artechhouse is committed to advancing experimental art using cutting-edge technology and exceptional design, creating one-of-a-kind spaces where tech-savvy artists can demonstrate their creativity. In celebration of its fifth anniversary, Artechhouse has reintroduced five of its most acclaimed exhibitions: Geometric Properties, created with Julius Horsthuis; introspective TRUST, in partnership with fuse*; Life of a Neuron, developed together with the Society for Neuroscience; the celestial Beyond the Light, done in collaboration with NASA; and Ase: Afro Frequencies, featuring Vince Fraser and Ursula Rucker. These exhibitions honor the “essence of human existence and the limitless potential of creativity.”
The Mysterious Bookshop
For bibliophiles, The Mysterious Bookshop is an essential stop. Established in 1979 by Otto Penzler, it is America’s largest and oldest specialty store dedicated to mystery literature. As the name suggests, this bookstore is a treasure trove of crime fiction, thrillers, and espionage narratives. It offers a wide selection that includes limited edition hardcovers, paperbacks, and magazines, along with signed or first-edition works from renowned authors such as Michael Connelly, James Ellroy, and Lee Child. Tucked away in Tribeca, The Mysterious Bookshop provides a tranquil retreat from the hectic pace of the city.
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Lexington Candy Shop
The Lexington Candy Shop is a beloved local institution and proudly claims the title of the oldest family-owned luncheonette in New York City. Opened in 1925, this charming eatery retains its vintage appeal, featuring original coffee urns, classic malted shakes, and traditional New York egg creams prepared with a 1940 Hamilton Beach mixer. Now managed by John Phillis, the grandson of the original proprietor, the shop continues to offer its original menu featuring well-loved diner staples such as tuna melts, pancakes, and sodas prepared with real syrups, reminiscent of the good old days. Located in Manhattan’s Upper East Side, the Lexington Candy Shop is an excellent choice for a relaxed meal in a nostalgic setting.
Nonnas of the World
The concept of “grandma’s cooking” evokes feelings of comfort and warmth, often linked to hearty meals and cherished family recipes. Enoteca Maria, located in Staten Island, takes this idea to a global level with its initiative “Nonnas of the World.” This heartwarming project emerged from owner Joe Scarvella’s passion for home-cooked meals, starting when Italian grandmothers first began to create dishes for the restaurant in the early 2000s. In 2015, Scarvella welcomed a Pakistani grandmother into the kitchen for a day, which sparked the diverse “Nonnas of the World” initiative. Every week, a different grandmother comes to cook, allowing diners to experience various cuisines while facilitating cross-cultural culinary exchanges.
Conwell Coffee Hall
The recently opened Conwell Coffee Hall has swiftly become a must-see destination in New York City, thanks to its historic backdrop and excellent coffee offerings. This café blends the best of both worlds—an art deco-inspired space that serves as both a historical landmark and a trendy coffee spot. Positioned amid the skyscrapers of Wall Street, Conwell Coffee Hall retains the original silver art deco details as well as a mural from the former Life and Trust Bank, previously housed in Conwell Towers.
The inspiration for this project came from CEO J.G. Conwell, coffee merchant Wright Gillies, and psychopharmacology innovator Emil Kraepelin, who made a “scientific discovery” about coffee in the bank’s lobby. They concluded that caffeine complemented Conwell’s Cough Syrup, leading to the creation of the perfect coffee blend in 1924, aptly named “The Skyscraper.” The Conwell Foundation commemorates J.G. Conwell’s legacy through Conwell Coffee Hall and the “Skyscraper” blend served inside the iconic building of Life and Trust Bank.
C.O. Bigelow Apothecaries
C.O. Bigelow Apothecaries stands out as one of New York’s most historic establishments, having operated as America’s oldest apothecary since 1838, dispensing their own formulations of medicines, salves, balms, perfumes, and remedies. According to C.O. Bigelow, their aim is to “transport customers back in time to a place of personalized service, customized formulas, and healing preparations.” Situated in Greenwich Village, this nearly 200-year-old store has attracted some of history’s most notable individuals, including Thomas Edison, Eleanor Roosevelt, and Mark Twain. Folklore suggests that Thomas Edison once used a Bigelow balm to soothe his burned fingers while working on an early bulb design. Despite the thriving landscape of indie apothecaries and beauty chains, C.O. Bigelow continues to flourish, making it a worthwhile visit for anyone interested in history and remedies.
Governors Island
Governors Island, located just south of Manhattan in Upper New York Bay, boasts a rich history that parallels that of the city itself. Initially reserved for colonial habitation in the 1690s, it later became a military outpost in the 1790s. After being closed to the public for 200 years, Governors Island welcomed visitors in 2005 and has since emerged as New York’s most popular seasonal retreat. The island was developed as a sustainability hub, hosting urban farming projects, zero-waste initiatives, and marine restoration efforts, with plans to establish a Climate Solutions Center in the near future.
A mere seven-minute ferry ride from Manhattan, Governors Island offers a tranquil contrast to the bustling city. Spanning 172 acres, it features expansive meadows, bike paths, and picnic areas, all free from cars and motorized vehicles. Visitors can enjoy breathtaking views of the Manhattan skyline while relaxing amidst lush scenery and fresh air.
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Grand Central Terminal’s Whispering Gallery
While many visitors to New York may recognize Grand Central Station, few might know about the “Whispering Gallery.” Hidden on the lower level, between Vanderbilt Hall and the Main Concourse, lies this unique archway. At first sight, the space’s unusual charm isn’t immediately evident. However, the cleverly designed vaulted chamber creates a fascinating acoustic phenomenon called the “telegraphing effect,” which enables two individuals positioned on opposite sides (approximately 30 meters apart) to converse as if they were standing shoulder to shoulder. Besides the remarkable acoustics, the Whispering Gallery dazzles with its exquisite tile work known as “Gustavino,” named after the Spanish tile craftsman Rafael Guastavino, who designed the lavish archways in 1913.
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