Venturing Beyond Manhattan: Must-Visit Spots in New York’s Boroughs

When I first moved to New York City, like many people, I was mesmerised by Manhattan. 

It’s understandable—Manhattan is the heart of the city, brimming with sights we’ve all seen in movies and TV shows. Times Square, Central Park, the Empire State Building—these landmarks are undeniably iconic. 

But it wasn’t until I ventured out of Manhattan that I truly discovered the magic of New York City.

If you’re a tourist with limited time, it makes sense to stick to Manhattan. But if you want to experience the real, multifaceted New York, you should try venturing into the other boroughs nearby. 

One of my favourite things to do when I lived in New York was pick a random neighbourhood in one of the boroughs, grab a coffee, and just start wandering aimlessly. 

Each area has its own unique charm, history, and hidden gems. Below is a friendly guide to some of the must-see neighbourhoods outside of Manhattan.

Brooklyn

Greenpoint

This charming, predominantly Polish neighbourhood offers a mix of old-world charm and waterfront apartment complexes. Stroll through McCarren Park, visit the unique shops along Franklin Street, and don’t miss the chance to grab a doughnut at Peter Pan Donut & Pastry Shop.

Bushwick

Known for its vibrant street art and edgy vibe, Bushwick is heaven for creatives. Take a walk around the Bushwick Collective to see some of the city’s best murals, then head to one of the many trendy bars or cafes. Roberta’s is a must-visit for pizza lovers!

Cobble Hill

See how the affluent Brooklynites live in picturesque brownstones and tree-lined streets of Cobble Hill. Check out the quaint shops and restaurants along Court and Smith Streets, and take a leisurely stroll through Cobble Hill Park.

Queens

Flushing

If you’re a fan of authentic Asian cuisine, Flushing is where you’ll want to go. Explore the bustling streets and try the dumplings at White Bear (my personal favourite) or the hand-pulled noodles at Xi’an Famous Foods.

Jackson Avenue

Located in Long Island City, Jackson Avenue is home to a growing arts scene. Visit MoMA PS1 for contemporary art exhibitions, and enjoy stunning views of the Manhattan skyline from Gantry Plaza State Park.

Astoria

This diverse neighbourhood is known for its Greek heritage and amazing food. Take a walk through Astoria Park for scenic views of the East River and Hell Gate Bridge, and be sure to grab a bite at one of the many excellent Greek restaurants—Taverna Kyclades is a standout!

The Bronx

Arthur Avenue

Often referred to as the real Little Italy, Arthur Avenue is a food lover’s dream. Stroll through the Arthur Avenue Retail Market for authentic Italian goods, and enjoy delicious meals at local favourites like Zero Otto Nove and Dominick’s.

Yankee Stadium

Even if you’re not a baseball fan, catching a game at Yankee Stadium is a bucket-list New York experience. The energy of the crowd and the history of the team make it a memorable day out.

Woodlawn

This neighbourhood is known for its vibrant Irish community and was a slice of home when I lived in the city.Visit Katonah Avenue to experience the local Irish pubs and restaurants. Try traditional Irish dishes at places like Rambling House or grab a pint at one of the many welcoming pubs.

Staten Island

St. George

Just a short (and free!) ferry ride from Manhattan, St. George is home to the Staten Island Museum and the Staten Island Yankees, a minor league baseball team. The ferry ride itself offers breathtaking views of the Statue of Liberty and the Manhattan skyline - did I mention it’s free?!

Historic Richmond Town

Step back in time at this living history village that showcases centuries of Staten Island life. With original buildings and costumed interpreters, it’s a great place for history fans interested in learning more about the city.

Manhattan (beyond the popular tourist spots)

Inwood

Nestled at the northern tip of Manhattan, Inwood feels like a world away from the skyscrapers downtown. Explore the greenery of Inwood Hill Park, where you can find the last natural forest in Manhattan and even some Native American history.

Dyckman

Adjacent to Inwood, Dyckman is a lively area with a rich cultural scene. Check out the Dyckman Farmhouse Museum, the oldest remaining farmhouse in Manhattan, and enjoy a meal at one of the many Dominican restaurants in the area. Dyckman Dogs is a favourite of ours!

Washington Heights

This vibrant neighbourhood is steeped in history and culture. Visit the Morris-Jumel Mansion, the oldest house in Manhattan, and take a walk across the High Bridge, the city’s oldest standing bridge, for beautiful views of the Harlem River.

Conclusion

New York City is so much more than just Manhattan. Each borough and neighbourhood offers its own unique slice of life, filled with history, culture, and stories waiting to be discovered. 

So next time you’re in the city, take a break from the usual tourist spots and venture out into the lesser-known areas. You never know what hidden gems you might find!