14 Secrets About New York City
Beyond the iconic landmarks and bustling streets of New York City, lies a treasure trove of hidden gems and surprises waiting to be uncovered. The city that embodies the American Dream is more than just its towering skyscrapers, trendy neighborhoods, and vibrant atmosphere. NYC has a rich tapestry of secrets woven into its fabric, waiting to be discovered by curious explorers.
From lesser-known attractions to fascinating facts about the city’s history and culture, there’s more to New York City than meets the eye.
Hidden Subway Stations
Hidden beneath the bustling streets of New York City lies a network of abandoned subway stations, each with its own unique history and character. One such station is the City Hall Station, a stunning architectural relic from 1904 that has been dormant for over a century. While it may not be accessible to the general public, intrepid travelers can catch a glimpse of this forgotten gem by simply remaining on the 6 train as it makes its turn around the loop.
A Secret Train Platform
Hidden beneath the iconic Waldorf Astoria hotel in New York City lies a mysterious platform known as Track 61. Rumors have long circulated that this secluded area was used by high-profile individuals, including former United States President Franklin D. Roosevelt, to discreetly arrive at the hotel. According to legend, Track 61 served as a covert entrance for VIPs seeking to avoid the public eye, offering a unique blend of secrecy and luxury.
Tiny Island with a Single Resident
Located just off the coast of the Bronx, Rat Island stands out as a unique gem – and a very quiet one at that. With a mere 2.5 acres of land to its name, this tiny isle boasts only one private owner, making it the least populated island in all of New York City. This astonishing fact sets Rat Island apart from its more populous counterparts, inviting curious minds to ponder the secrets and stories hidden within its solitary shores.
A Massive Underground Library
Tucked away beneath Bryant Park, the Stephen A. Schwarzman Building of New York Public Library conceals a vast network of shelves that stretch for miles. This labyrinthine repository is home to a significant portion of the library’s vast collection, but unfortunately, it remains inaccessible to the public.
The Empire State Building’s Secret Floor
While the iconic Empire State Building is well-known for its impressive height and stunning views, there’s a lesser-known aspect that sets it apart from other landmarks: a secretive 103rd floor. Not intended for public access, this exclusive space serves as a hub for broadcasting equipment, further solidifying the building’s status as a center of communication and media excellence.
Gold Vault Under the Federal Reserve
Deep beneath the bustling streets of New York City, a staggering quarter of the world’s total gold reserves lies safely ensconced in secure vaults located approximately 80 feet beneath the surface. This vast repository is nestled within the Federal Reserve Bank of New York, a testament to the significance of this institution in global economic affairs.
Manhattan’s Lengthening Daylight
The urban landscape of Manhattan is characterized by its iconic skyscrapers. Interestingly, these towering structures have a profound impact on the amount of sunlight that reaches certain areas of the city. In fact, some parts of Manhattan can receive up to 30 minutes less sunlight per day compared to if the land were flat, highlighting the complex interplay between architecture and natural light.
Manhattanhenge
Every 6 months, on Memorial Day and Baseball’s All Star break, New York City’s Manhattan borough experiences a rare phenomenon that draws in hundreds of photographers and tourists. On these specific days, the sun perfectly aligns with the grid-like street pattern, creating a striking visual contrast between the city’s iconic brick and steel skyscrapers, drawing out the best in architecture and natural light.
Oldest Running Apothecary in America
For over 180 years, C.O. Bigelow Apothecaries has been a staple in New York City’s Greenwich Village neighborhood. Established in 1838, this historic apothecary remains the oldest of its kind in America, offering a unique blend of traditional and modern approaches to healthcare.
The Whispering Gallery in Grand Central Terminal
In the heart of New York City’s iconic Grand Central Terminal lies an intriguing phenomenon. A peculiar acoustical feature exists within its majestic architecture, allowing individuals to communicate in a unique way. When two people position themselves at the diagonal arches and whisper, their voices are carried across the vaulted ceiling, transmitted to each other with remarkable clarity.
The Statue of Liberty’s Nose Size
While the Statue of Liberty’s design may seem familiar, few people realize just how massive this iconic monument truly is. Take, for instance, the statue’s nose, which stretches an impressive 4.5 feet in length – a testament to the colossal scale of Lady Liberty herself.
More Speakeasies Please
While Prohibition reigned supreme in the United States during the 1920s and ’30s, New York City stood out as a hotbed of illegal nightlife. The city’s estimated 32,000 speakeasies – more than any other metropolitan area at the time – thrived behind unassuming facades and hidden entrances, leaving few traces of their illicit existence.
A Castle in Manhattan
In the midst of bustling Manhattan lies an unexpected gem – a castle. Specifically, Fort Tryon Park is home to The Cloisters, a branch of the esteemed Metropolitan Museum of Art that delves into the rich art and architecture of medieval Europe. This imposing structure, designed in the style of a castle, serves as a treasure trove for over 5,000 exquisite medieval works, offering visitors a unique glimpse into a bygone era.
A Mile-Long Sidewalk
Along the Hudson River, the Hudson River Greenway boasts an impressive 11-mile continuous pathway suitable for both cycling and running. However, it’s the stretch near the iconic George Washington Bridge that truly stands out – boasting the longest unbroken sidewalk in Manhattan, measuring approximately a mile in length without any interruptions from intersecting streets.
