Often referred to as the “city of dreams,” New York is a distinctive city featuring busy streets, tall skyscrapers, and Broadway productions that are a creative light. As one of the most popular tourist spots in the US, it offers a symphony of satisfying experiences with its famous landmarks, scenic places and lively attractions. But in addition to its vibrant and glittering international reputation, New York has another side that is full of undiscovered treasures that just need to be discovered.
Here is a list of some of the best least crowded but still scenic places to visit in New York City that are ideal for a peaceful getaway. Come explore hidden beaches, undiscovered gardens, historic sites, scenic places and charming shops instead of relying on the noise of the crowds and the guidebook.
Summary:
- Explore New York City’s hidden treasures outside of the busy streets and popular tourist destinations.
- For a peaceful getaway, check out beautiful locations like Pebble Beach and the Met Cloisters.
- Discover hidden parks in the middle of the city, such as Carl Schurz Park and Greenacre Park.
Top 10 Best least crowded but still scenic places to visit in New York City
- Carl Schurz Park
- Liberty Park
- Berlin Wall
- Conservatory Garden
- Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge
- Wave Hill Public Garden & Cultural Center
- Smallpox Memorial Hospital
- Greenacre Park
- Pebble Beach
- Met Cloisters
Top 10 Best Least Crowded But Still Scenic Places To Visit In New York City in detail:
10.Met Cloisters
- 9:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
- Adult admission is $30, senior admission is $22, and student admission is $17.
- Action items: Discover nine cloisters featuring a range of architectural styles, a collection of medieval artwork, a sensory herb garden, a peaceful Cuxa Cloister Garden, and the opportunity to take guided tours or go to special events.
A quiet, peaceful area in Fort Tryon Park featuring large gardens showcasing Greek, Roman, and Egyptian artifacts. Met Cloisters, a tranquil location in Fort Tryon Park, is ideal for tourists who stay in Midtown and Lower Manhattan. History buffs are drawn to the building because it features nine cloisters in various architectural styles. Come here to experience a voyage back in time through vast gardens, original artwork, and stunning views of the Hudson River.
9.Pebble Beach
- Time: Not specified
- Entry fee: Not charged
- Things to do: St. Ann’s Warehouse, the Environmental Education Center, the Empire Fulton Ferry, the waterfront and skyline of
- Brooklyn Bridge Park, the East River, and Main Street
A rocky beach in the heart of New York City that offers picturesque views of the Manhattan skyline and the East River. A rocky shoreline along the East River, Pebble Beach is part of Brooklyn Bridge Park and has an interesting history. Visitors looking for a more picturesque getaway than the usual beach setting are drawn to this hidden location. Take in the unhindered views of the East River and Manhattan Skyline while visiting, or stroll among the varied vegetation and tidal pools.
8.Greenacre Park
- Hours: 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
- There is no admission charge.
- Activities include the following: a 25-foot-tall waterfall, walls covered in ivy, vibrant seasonal flowers, lush green surroundings, neighboring outdoor cafés, and a sunny seating area inside the property. Read books, listen to music, unwind, and revitalize.
A hidden gem in Midtown Manhattan featuring enchanting waterfalls and movable tables. Tucked away on a quiet street between two buildings, Greenacre Park is a small urban park with shade. The park is centered around a 25-foot waterfall, and there are verdant meadows and walls covered in vibrant, seasoned flowers everywhere you look. The park creates the impression of being less crowded with its many levels and seating areas, making it a great place to read a book or listen to music.
7.Smallpox Memorial Hospital
- Hours: 9:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. (On Tuesdays, closed.)
- There is no admission charge.
- Activities: Discover the past of illnesses, the hospital’s ruins that display hospital wards, kitchens, and administrative buildings, and the East River, Roosevelt Island, and the Manhattan skyline.
The first smallpox hospital, now a gothic revival building with eerie ruins covered in ivy, was built to treat patients. The first hospital to treat smallpox patients was Smallpox Memorial Hospital. Now, it’s a quiet neighborhood with lovely views of the majestic East River, one of the less traveled paths. In addition to exploring the hospital’s ruins, tourists seeking a peaceful getaway can learn about the history of diseases. While here, admire the artwork at the Motorgate Garage, which is close by, or have a picnic by the waterfront.
6.Wave Hill Public Garden & Cultural Center
- Time: 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
- $10 for adults; $6 for seniors and students; $4 for children aged 6 to 18 (free admission on Thursdays)
- Activities include the Sunken Garden Theater performance, Wave Hill House, which dates back to the 1830s, lovely views of the Hudson River and the New Jersey Palisades, Wave Hill shops, workshops, and special events.
Located in a serene area of the Bronx, this 28-acre estate boasts stunning views of gardens and woodlands. Situated in the Bronx, Wave Hill Public Garden & Cultural Center is a historic 28-acre estate that dates back to the 1830s. Compared to other Manhattan gardens with designated picnic areas, this one is more picturesque and less crowded. For those looking for peace and quiet, the area’s vast, well-kept public gardens, wooded walkways, and stunning views of the Hudson River are ideal.
5.Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge
- Hours: 6 a.m. to 9 p.m.
- There is no admission charge.
- Activities: The best things to do are hike, bike, kayak, canoe, fish, observe wildlife, tour the visitor center, volunteer programs, and visit art galleries and studios in the nearby Broad Channel community.
A hidden location in Queens devoted to observing nature, protecting wildlife, and educating people about the environment. One of the greener tourist destinations in New York is Jamaica Bay Wildlife Refuge, which is tucked away in the southeast corner of Queens.
It draws people who are generally concerned about the environment and are looking for a calm setting with an emphasis on wildlife protection and environmental education. You can volunteer for environmental conservation, hike beautiful trails, observe wildlife, and enjoy bird watching while you’re here.
4.Conservatory Garden
- Hours: 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.
- There is no admission charge.
- Activities: Take a tour of the Conservatory Garden to see the blooms in all their splendor; stroll around the garden’s east side to see rare tree species; or just kick back and relax in the peaceful surroundings.
The only formal garden in Central Park, New York City, exudes a romantic, Parisian atmosphere. Welcome to the Conservatory Garden, a 6-acre formal garden located in Central Park, NYC, where guests can savor the elegance of blooms and greenery.
With three separate sections, this isolated paradise is undoubtedly Instagrammable. A section dedicated to the north has a lovely French-patterned flower display, and the south has an English-style garden with seasonal flowers and an unusual bronze sculpture. In the middle is a gorgeous geyser fountain and an enchanted garden with floral patterns reminiscent of Italy. It’s a must-visit location to escape the bustling street crowds and take in the vibrant charm of nature because of its romantic ambiance and breathtaking views.
3.Berlin Wall
- Hours: Available around-the-clock
- There is no admission charge.
- Activities: Take in this amazing piece of history and visit nearby famous landmarks like the Empire State Building, Times Square, and the Statue of Liberty.
a colorful painting by French artist Thierry Noir that represents freedom. A portion of the original Berlin Wall was retained and erected as a public art installation in 1990. A powerful aura and historical significance draw tourists looking for a contemplative experience to the 13-foot-long and 12-foot-high wall. Enjoy the vivid works of Thierry Noir, a well-known French painter, while visiting. Participate in educational initiatives that provide the history of the wall more context and understanding.
2.Liberty Park
- Hours: 6 a.m. to 11 p.m.
- There is no admission charge.
- Activities: Look for the “living wall,” take in the unusual sculptures, and find the homes of more than 50 trees, almost 1,000 shrubs, and native bees.
The World Trade Center campus is visible from this serene acre-long public park. Enter Liberty Park to escape the hustle and bustle of well-known NYC parks and enter a tranquil haven. June 2016 saw the opening of this elevated park, which is ideal for a respite from the financial district’s bustle. It is filled with lovely blooms and a variety of plants.
The Sphere, a well-known sculpture by Fritz Koenig that was rescued from the wreckage of the World Trade Center site, is visible to visitors when they arrive. A 16-foot-tall bronze monument honoring the armed forces of the United States is also situated in the park; it is called America’s Response Monument.
1.Carl Schurz Park
- Hours: 6 a.m. to 12 a.m.
- There is no admission charge.
- Activities: Take a leisurely stroll through a lush environment, take in the tranquil views of the water, work out, go for a power walk, take in the stunning landscaping, and bring your pets along for the ultimate dog play date.
See a small, picturesque park that offers breathtaking views of the mayor’s mansion and the East River. When discussing picturesque and pristine hidden gems in New York City, it would be inconsiderate to overlook the stunning Carl Schurz Park. A wonderful 14.9-acre public park with wonderful hardscapes and lush vegetation can be found in Yorkville, Manhattan.
A children’s playground, two dog runs, basketball courts, and a pleasant view of Gracie Mansion and the East River are all located here. It’s the ideal place to visit with friends and family because everything is kept up and clean.