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Hidden Neighborhoods – Your Guide to Exploring Lesser-known New York blog image

Hidden Neighborhoods – Your Guide to Exploring Lesser-known New York

October 09 2023

New York, New York – it’s Times Square, Central Park, Broadway, and Greenwich Village, but so much more if you know where to look. The Big Apple is one of the world’s most popular vacation destinations – and if you’re looking for something off the beaten track, despite being a bustling metropolis, there are plenty of hidden gems in NYC.

Red Hook

Love Brooklyn? Don’t skip Red Hook on your next visit. The waterfront neighborhood is a world away from the busy streets of Manhattan. Take a tour of the Waterfront Museum and the Showboat Barge before sampling the fresh seafood at the famous Red Hook Lobster Pound. Don’t miss the Red Hook Winery or the views of the Statue of Liberty from the Red Hook Promenade.

Sail boat sails on the Hudson river between two tree covered banks with fall colors

Astoria

Located in Queens, Astoria is another hidden gem in the city that shouldn’t be missed. The diverse neighborhood has a rich cultural history and plenty to see and do. Love international food? Grab some exciting international eats in one of the many local restaurants. On a rainy day, the Museum of Moving Image is a great afternoon out, while Astoria Park offers incredible views across the Manhattan skyline, and the Bohemian Beer Garden is the perfect place to enjoy a drink before you head back to the city.

Inwood

Looking for somewhere to escape the city? Inwood is Manhattan’s most northern neighborhood and the perfect place to get lost. Home to Inwood Hill Park, with the last natural forest and salt marsh in Manhattan, the neighborhood is a unique place to visit and only 30 minutes on public transport from The Hotel Beacon. If you’re into Dominican food, Inwood has some of the best Dominican food in the city – don’t miss out.

Multi coloured houses with painted balconies and fire escapes

Arther Ave

Little Italy is a great place to visit if you love Italian food – however, if you’re looking for fewer crowds, fewer tourist traps, and an authentic Italian experience, Arthur Avenue is probably more up your alley. Boasting family-owned delis, restaurants, and bakeries, it’s as close to the real Italy as you’ll find in New York City. Located in the Bronx, head over to Arthur Avenue for fresh pasta, hand-rolled cannoli, and Nonna’s recipe pastries for an Italian treat.

Looking for a hotel in the heart of the action? The Hotel Beacon is situated just moments from some of the city’s best and most popular attractions.