Planning a trip to New York City but want to do something a little unconventional? I’ve got you covered! Here are some unique and underrated experiences that are way more fun than your average tourist itinerary.

1. Enter the Broadway Lottery

I know, I know—you already know about Broadway. But have you heard about the Broadway Lottery? It’s one of NYC’s best-kept secrets for seeing big shows without breaking the bank.

You can score tickets to Hamilton for $10 or The Lion King for $60. Yes, really!
Pro tip: Check out my full guide on how to win the Broadway Lottery.

2. Be Part of a Live Talk Show Audience

Ever dreamed of being on TV? Now’s your chance! You can attend a live taping of shows like:

• The View
• Live with Kelly and Mark
• The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon
• The Drew Barrymore Show

All you have to do is sign up on 1iota.com or the show’s official site. Bonus? Tickets are completely free.

3. Visit a Pop-Up Experience

NYC always has something new popping up—literally. Whether it’s a Bridgerton-themed event or a product launch like Tree Hut Pop, there’s always something quirky and fun going on.

Check out:

• The Average Socialite
• Free NYC

They regularly list free and ticketed events, often with awesome photo ops and samples.

4. Shakespeare in the Park

Visiting in summer? Then Shakespeare in the Park is a must. Held in Central Park at the Delacorte Theater, this iconic NYC tradition is completely free, featuring incredible performances under the stars.

Arrive early or join the digital lottery to snag tickets!

Final Thoughts

NYC is full of surprises, and the best experiences aren’t always the ones in the guidebooks. From $10 Broadway tickets to immersive pop-ups, there’s a whole world of unique fun waiting for you.