Follow Along as We Explore NYC’s Hidden Gems
Spring has sprung and New York City is blossoming back to life. We’re thrilled to welcome back our leisure riders — fellow New Yorkers and visitors alike. NYC Ferry’s open-air commute provides a safe way to explore the boroughs from a unique perspective.
This month, we’re helping you rediscover your city with our favorite hidden gems along NYC Ferry routes. From delicious restaurants to unique experiences, check out our top picks on where to visit this spring!
Juliette
Located in North Williamsburg, Juliette offers fresh ingredients and Parisian decor that make for a picturesque dining experience. Try a classic dish like the French onion soup or pop in at brunch for the mouth-watering apple butter stuffed french toast drizzled with bourbon maple syrup. If you’re looking to grab a drink, head to Juliette for happy hour, offered Wednesday through Friday from 4-6 pm. Juliette is located just minutes away from the North Williamsburg landing.
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Juliette – 135 N 5th St, Brooklyn, NY 11249
Edy’s Grocer
Edy’s Grocer in Greenpoint serves authentic Lebanese food with a modern twist. Each dish is made with a dash of Edy’s grandfather’s olive oil imported from Lebanon. In addition to the restaurant, Edy’s storefront offers Mediterranean staples to-go. Edy’s is conveniently located off of the Greenpoint ferry landing on the East River route.
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Edy’s Grocer -136 Meserole Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11222
Chateau de Woof
Chateau de Woof is NYC’s first pet market and cafe, offering everything from brunch and cocktails to an off-leash play area and grooming services. Located just a short walk from our Astoria landing, Chateau de Wood is sure to be you and your best friend’s new favorite stop.
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Chateau Le Woof – 3101 Vernon Blvd, Queens, NY 11106
The Little Shop
The Little Shop is a true hidden gem, as this secret speakeasy is tucked away under the disguise of a bodega. The maximalist vintage decor gives the space a kitschy yet cozy feel. The menu ranges from ingredient-focused cocktails to cultural cuisine that brings together the various tastes of the city. The Little Shop is located just off the Astoria line at the Pier 11 / Wall Street landing. Stop in to see if you can find the hidden entrance.
NYC Ferry riders can receive 10% off any purchase from the front-end shop when you show your ticket!
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The Little Shop – 252 Front St, New York, NY 10038
Stone Street
Stone Street is New York City’s oldest street — in fact, the street is older than NYC itself! In 1658, Stone Street became the first cobbled street in New Amsterdam. This historic spot is known for its outdoor dining scene and is open to pedestrian traffic only. Stone Street is home to some of the Financial District’s best bars and restaurants, ranging from traditional Irish fare at The Dubliner to a magical mixology experience at The Cauldron. Just a short walk from the Wall Street / Pier 11 landing, Stone Street provides a refreshing getaway from the bustling streets of FiDi.
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Stone Street – Stone St, New York, NY 10004
Whit’s End
Who doesn’t like pizza? Whit’s End takes wood-fired pizza to the next level with a rotating menu of unique toppings and fresh seafood. This edgy restaurant is known for good vibes, live music, and a perfect place to enjoy a bite after a sunfilled day at the beach. With the option to BYOB, you’ll want to come with a 6-pack and an empty stomach. Whit’s End is located on Rockaway Beach Boulevard, just a few blocks from the Rockaway landing.
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Whit’s End – 97-02 Rockaway Beach Blvd, Far Rockaway, NY 11693
Steve’s Authentic Key Lime Pies
Got a sweet tooth? Steve Tarpin has been crafting authentic key lime pie for over 25 years at his Red Hook shop, Steve’s Authentic Key Lime Pies. Steve uses high-quality ingredients, freshly-squeezed lime juice, and homemade pie crusts that will have you feeling like you’ve been transported to the Florida Keys. Try one of his famous pies or treat your tastebuds with a taste of a swingle — a 4-inch tart dipped in 100% Belgian dark chocolate. Hop on the South Brooklyn route and get off at the Red Hook landing to give Steve’s a try.
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Steve’s Authentic Key Lime Pie – 185 Van Dyke St, Brooklyn, NY 11231
Hidden Subway Vent
58 Joralemon Street may look like an average home, but you wouldn’t want to live in a house like this. This hidden gem is an optical illusion designed to hide a subway ventilator and emergency exit. The home’s structure is simply just a facade with blacked-out windows that was built to conceal what’s hidden behind. Take the South Brooklyn route to the Pier 6 / Atlantic Avenue landing to see if you could spot this strange Brooklyn find.
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Hidden Subway Vent – 58 Joralemon St Brooklyn, NY 11201
Elevated Acre
The Elevated Acre is for those who looking to escape the hustle and bustle of Manhattan for a secluded oasis. This privately-owned public space is a one-acre meadow in the heart of FiDi that offers lush gardens, a summer beer garden, and a front-row view of the East River. The Acre’s inconspicuous escalator entrance at 55 Water Street camouflages in with surrounding office buildings, making this spot a true hidden gem. Take the NYC Ferry Soundview route to Wall Street for easy access to the Elevated Acre.
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Elevated Acre – 55 Water St, New York, NY 10041
Pho Shop
Best known for its authentic Banh Mi sandwiches and Pho noodle soup, Pho Shop serves traditional Vietnamese cuisine made with the freshest of ingredients. Be sure to try a classic Vietnamese beverage with your meal, like a Vietnamese iced coffee, Viet lychee nut iced coffee, or the Che Shop/Rainbow Ice which is made with coconut milk, red bean, mung bean, palm seed, and mixed fruit jelly. Explore your palate while you explore NYC by visiting Pho Shop!
Stop into Pho Shop’s 1st Avenue location, just a 10-minute walk from the East 90th Street landing.
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Pho Shop – 1716 1st Avenue, New York, NY 10128
The Friends Experience
The Friends Experience is for when it hasn’t been your day, your week, your month, or even your year. While this gem is not so hidden, the experience was recently launched and is slowly gaining popularity. Visit The Friends Experience and enter into the world of one of the most loved sitcoms, Friends. Grab a coffee at Central Perk, or relax in Monica’s iconic apartment. The Instagrammable opportunities are endless.
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The Friends Experience – 130 E 23rd St, New York, NY 10010
Island Oyster
Visit Island Oyster during your Governors Island weekend adventure, and you’ll forget that you’re still in the city. The space has a tropical-inspired summer menu and offers stunning views of Manhattan. For the true island experience, hop on the Governor’s Island route from Pier 11 at Wall Street.
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Island Oyster -146 Carder Rd, Brooklyn, NY 11231
Collective Retreats
Collective Retreats provides a peaceful and memorable escape from city life. Located in the hills of Governors Island, this elevated campground will leave you feeling relaxed and rejuvenated. On top of their IG-worthy accommodations, the glamping site offers a range of outdoor activities from complimentary morning yoga sessions to nightly live music. Take the Governor’s Island route to experience this secluded oasis.
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