Places to experience New York City NOT as a tourist
I personally love experiencing new cities as if I lived there - here is a list of recommendations from a NYC resident!!
Map
Parks
Central Park is awesome, but these are hidden gems of the city!
Just gorgeous. Lots of tree-lined pathways, hidden gardens, and a river view!
A great place to take a breath & people watch :-)
Unexpectedly peaceful! A great spot to take a break from your downtown activities
If you find yourself in the southern tip of Manhattan, go here. Trust me!
The prettiest walk & best views!!! Everyone who visits NYC should experience the High Line
This is my choice for Brooklyn parks!! Prospect Park is the most popular in Brooklyn, but this spot is exTREMely peaceful! A perfect afternoon: grabbing lunch nearby and eating it in Msgr. McGolrick Park
Live Music
In between seeing Broadway shows & Radio City, check out these authentic NYC music venues
The best players in the city come here to jam late at night. You will get a real flavor of NYC jazz if you go to Smalls!
3 stages to see original music of all genres! Very cozy spot & authentic sounds. And Stage 1 is free of admission!
A lesser known upscale jazz bar in the city! Great musicians, cocktails & snacks at the Wallace
This is the spot to see up-and-coming NYC talent. Immaculate vibes
Such an amazing space & a great spot for Latin music. A hidden gem!
One of the coolest jazz clubs in NYC!! Go to Zinc Bar!
Lesser known than Birdland & the Blue Note, but same quality of venue & musicians. If you find yourself uptown, definitely check out Smoke
DESSERTS
Approved by someone with a certified sweet tooth
These. Cookies. Are. Insane. 11/10!
So many different delicious treats at Janie's…you'll have to see for yourself! And the bakery has an amazing & inspiring origin story
Delicious, and I mean DELICIOUS, *gluten free* AND *dairy free* baked goods. I have no idea how they do it!
I believe this is the best ice cream in NYC. Each flavor is better & creamier than the next!!
You can literally get full ice cream scoops of cookie dough here. For all the cookie dough lovers like me!!