Gothamist
A non-profit newsroom, powered by WNYC.
Gothamist
Donate
Arts & Entertainment

A Guide To Manhattan's Roadside Attractions

By
Lauren Evans

Published Nov 2, 2016

Modified Nov 4, 2016

Share

Never miss a story
Smooth out those driving scarves and get ready to ruin some foul-mouthed truckers, 'cause we're going on a road trip! In addition to its innumerable other charms, the island of Manhattan is a den of offbeat, bizarre, campy attractions that would feel right at home on any dusty roadside in middle America. Luckily, you don't have to slog through vast deserted stretches of Iowa before stumbling across something awesome; the riches are densely packed and interspersed not with tumble weeds, but Chase banks, and the locals are friendly (sometimes)!We strapped on our bike helmets (because let's face it, no one wants to park in Manhattan) and visited the most notable of New York City's under-explored landmarks. Throw your bulky vinyl luggage in the metaphorical trunk and let's get going while we've still got the light!
(Photo by Tod Seelie/Gothamist)
By
Lauren Evans

Published Nov 2, 2016

Modified Nov 4, 2016

Share

We rely on your support to make local news available to all

Make your contribution now and help Gothamist thrive in 2025. Donate today

Gothamist is funded by sponsors and member donations

Tagged

road trip
roadside attractions
original
Lauren Evans
Read more

Gothamist is funded by sponsors and member donations

Gothamist is funded by sponsors and member donations

MORE arts-entertainment

The perfect Thanksgiving NYC indie film almost didn't get made

At the turn of the century, Katie Holmes starred in "Piece of April," James Hedges' now-cult classic.

By
Ryan Kailath

Published Nov 26, 2025

NYC distributes first-ever nightlife grants, totaling over $350K

Cultural organizations across all five boroughs received awards.

By
Hannah Frishberg
Arts & Entertainment
NYC distributes first-ever nightlife grants, totaling over $350K

Cultural organizations across all five boroughs received awards.

By
Hannah Frishberg
SantaCon wasn't always a drunken New York City nightmare
By
Hannah Frishberg
3 questions for Keanu Reeves and Alex Winter, stars of 'Waiting For Godot' on Broadway
By
Alison Stewart
The Studio Museum in Harlem reopens at last
By
Hannah Frishberg
Never miss a story

Catch up on the most important headlines with a roundup of essential NYC stories, delivered to your inbox daily.

AdvertisingContact UsOur TeamRSS FeedDiversity (DEI)Careers
Gothamist

Gothamist is a website about New York City news, arts, events and food, brought to you by New York Public Radio.

AdvertisingContact UsOur TeamRSS FeedDiversity (DEI)Careers
FacebookTwitterInstagramYoutube
Terms Of UsePrivacy PolicyAccessibility
©2025 New York Public Radio. All rights reserved.