I am sure that you already know the most exciting and iconic attractions in New York. I am certain you will have heard about or seen the skyline of Manhattan a hundred times on TV and in films: the top of the Empire State Building, the lush green of Central Park and the colourful lights of Times Square.

If you have visited the Big Apple and have queued for hours to see its most famous landmarks, you are no doubt eagerly waiting for us to reveal the best undiscovered attractions in New York.

Use this guide to make your holiday more unique, escape the tourists and above all, discover New York’s most original locations. Be sure to book those cheap flights to New York as soon as possible because you will want to leave straight after reading this.

1. The first secret is that there is life outside Central Park. You obviously must have a glimpse of this iconic slice of green which runs through the city (so you can tell your friends and family that you have been there); however, you might want to spend some time with nature somewhere less populated and off the beaten track. This is possible! The Brooklyn Botanic Garden or the Robert F. Wagner Jr. Park are perfect places to relax after a busy day touring the metropolis. The latter benefits from breathtaking scenery and you will be able to enjoy stunning and clear views of the East River and the Statue of Liberty.

2. You don’t necessarily have to be in the Village or in Times Square to have a good night out in New York City. It’s no secret that Brooklyn is a more typical, more vibrant and, well, cheaper representation of what the city has to offer. There, you will be able to choose from a variety of bars and restaurants filled with true New Yorkers, looking for a good time. The Gutter bowling alley definitely deserves your attention if you want a vintage New York night out with good beer, a good atmosphere, good music and a healthy dose of fun.. You will also find many quality live music events (free of charge), in the local bars as well as at the Brooklyn Academy of Music.

3. Watching and shooting the Manhattan skyline is a touristic guilty pleasure and by all means, it needs to be done. This usually takes place in a crowded boat or at the top of the Statue of Liberty crawling with people and their foam hats. However, if you are looking for a quieter spot with a wonderful view of the famous skyline, Water Taxi Beach is the ideal location. The purposely-named Water Taxi will take you to Long Island City where you can enjoy walking barefoot in the sand with a beer in hand, with the skyline scenery waiting to be snapped.

4. Trade China Town for Korea Town. Tourists have not quite taken over K-Town yet; so hurry to visit this neighborhood, which has kept its traditions and unique atmosphere. With no Bureau De Changes and no souvenir shops in K-Town, you’ll simply find amazing Korean food served by friendly and welcoming people. Take the time to stop at a karaoke bar or simply enjoy a K-Town Crawl to complete the experience. The Me Bar with its rooftop view of the Empire State Building will blow your mind.

5. Finally, take the time to visit Staten Island’s Snug Harbor. Here you will find a collection of Greek revival architecture, art museums and relaxing gardens. With all these wonders to explore, this not-so-well-known destination is definitely going to make your day. Other undiscovered museums in New York include the Museum of Sex and the unusual City Reliquary. The MET is so passé anyway!