Few places in the world can offer the same variety of attractions and things to do as New York. From Broadway shows and helicopter rides to food tours and Segway adventures; there are endless things to do and see. At the same time, even the most enjoyable experiences can seem a bit obvious or unexciting in New York, especially when this experience is intended as a gift.
With this in mind, here are five alternative gift experiences in New York
Top 5 Gift Experiences in New York
While horseback riding in Central Park sounds like an incredibly fun way to spend an afternoon, the New York City Riding Academy is a slightly more alternative and immersive horse riding experience. That is to say; the last remaining horse riding academy in Manhattan is far from the tourist crowds and offers a very authentic experience for those with a genuine love of horse riding.
Lasting for one hour, these horse riding lessons are facilitated in two styles, western or English, while the friendly instructors have ample experience when it comes to catering for beginners, intermediate or advanced riders.
As far as unique encounters are considered, horse riding at the New York City Riding Academy is often regarded as one of the best-kept secrets in Manhattan.
When it comes to organic food and fresh produce, Whole Foods is almost embedded in the hearts of New Yorkers. With this in mind, it should not be surprising that this charming market is also home to one of the best reviewed and highly sought after cooking lessons in Manhattan.
Whether the aim is to improve culinary skills with a partner or just to enjoy some recreational baking classes with friends, these hands-on cooking classes are hugely fun and offered at regular intervals throughout the year. Since most of these lessons include a meal and drinks, this is also a fun alternative to meeting up with friends for lunch. Furthermore, that special someone is certain to appreciate a freshly cooked meal under the guidance of one of Whole Foods in-store instructors.
Finally, Whole Food cooking lessons are suitable for all ages and occasions while the in-store instructors are sometimes replace by some of the most exciting artisans and chefs in New York.
Of course, New York is nicknamed “the city that never sleeps,” but in an increasingly complex and busy world, there should also be an effort to slow everything down. Located in the East Village, the Montauk Salt Cave is truly a hidden gem in Manhattan and precisely the place to turn this effort into a reality.
Simply put, the forty-five minutes it takes to experience the inside of this Himalayan salt lined room is nothing short of priceless. Featuring thousands of beautiful pink stones and a silence w
hich is always absent in Manhattan, the relaxing atmosphere in these caves is almost palpable and always a welcome-break from the fast-moving city outside.
Interestingly, it is said that these charming rooms have healing qualities and ability to reduce anxiety. However, your friend, partner or work colleague will inevitably appreciate the rather strange sense of calm in the caves and an opportunity to unplug from an increasingly busy life.
If cooking lessons seem a little complicated for the person in mind, gelato-making could be the slightly more appealing option you need. Situated on Murray Hill in Manhattan, Mia Chef Gelateria is a culinary institute which offers this incredibly fun and informative gelato making class.
While you will learn about the origins of gelato, the highlight of the experience is in the process itself. After all, everyone loves ice-cream and just how hard can it be to concoct a ta
sty gelato? Well, gelato is quite a sophisticated product, and the art of making this dessert is extremely interesting. In other words, you will need to pay attention, but this is also what can make the class to enjoyable.
It is also worth noting that Mica Chef Gelateria caters for both individuals and groups, so you can enjoy this wonderful experience with a partner, friends or even with a birthday party in tow.
Time is the most valuable commodity in the world and unfortunately, the reason for which too many people feel unable to achieve a more fulfilling or meaningful lifestyle. For those who live in New York or Manhattan, in particular, this can certainly be true, but at the same time, there is often an exception to the rule.
Located on Fifth Avenue next to Central Park, the Metropolitan Museum of Art is the most visited museum in New York and home to more than two million pieces of art which date back as much as five thousand years. However, it is not the Egyptian Art exhibition of World War I visuals which are the most enticing aspect but rather, the opportunity to explore this incredible museum before it opens to the public.
The Empty Met Tour is arguably the most personal guided tour in New York which takes place first thing in the morning. As the title suggests, the museum is, in fact, empty and the prospect of walking amidst five millennia of human history is nothing short of unforgettable. Titled the most celebrated guide in the Metropolitan Museum, the tour lasts for ninety minutes and considering the convenient timing of this adventure, even the busiest New Yorkers should find enough excuse to experience it.
As for the highlight; imagine setting foot in the famous Temple of Dendur and marveling at this majestic tomb without a single soul in the entire room.
Have we missed any unique experiences or hidden gems in New York? Please let us know in the comments.
