Tourists In NYC Will Want To Take Advantage Of This Festival Full Of Secret Attractions

It's no secret that New York City is one of the most expensive places to visit in the U.S., and in this day and age, you have to go out of your way to find activities (especially cultural ones) with a "free" price tag. Luckily, this weekend, the city hosts its annual festival, catering to locals and tourists alike. Open House New York, taking place this year from October 17-19, is a popular event featuring behind-the-scenes tours and special activities at more than 300 different destinations. From historic landmarks and cutting-edge architectural marvels to hidden art studios and newly designed public spaces, Open House New York offers visitors a rare opportunity to see the city from the inside out. 

Kristin LaBuz, executive director of OHNY, stated "New York never feels more generous than during Open House New York Weekend, when 1,400 volunteers show tens of thousands of visitors their corners of the city." Many of the featured locations are typically closed to the public or require special permission to enter, making this weekend a truly special experience for those curious about New York's inner workings. While some of the experiences require tickets, around 160 of them are listed as drop-in sites, meaning you can plan your weekend according to what you want to see, with no price tag attached.

Participants can explore everything from iconic sites like the long-abandoned Bronx General Post Office and the inside of the United Nations Headquarters to lesser-known gems such as community gardens in Brooklyn or restored industrial spaces along the waterfront. Each stop reveals a different layer of the city's past, present, and future — and together, they highlight the remarkable diversity of design, innovation, and history that make New York what it is today.

Those looking to make the most of the weekend can access Open House New York's online directory and interactive map, making it easy to plan out a personalized itinerary. You can filter events and sites by neighborhood accessibility, type of experience, time of day, and date. Whether you're interested in grand architectural feats, eco-friendly projects, or cultural spaces that tell the stories of New York's many communities, this event is the perfect way to spend the weekend exploring the ins and outs of the city. Some of the sites will even play host to talks, workshops, and tours, offering visitors a deeper insight into the spaces that shape daily life within the city. 

Most of the events and sites are open to visitors during the day, but exact times vary, so it's best to check in advance. The full program, including site details, accessibility notes, and registration links, can be found on the official Open House New York website. Visitors can also plan their entire weekend out, via the My Itinerary section. According to LaBuz, "Open House New York Weekend is rooted in the simple but radical act of sharing the city. This festival gives curious New Yorkers a hall pass to explore the people, projects, and places that make this the greatest city in the world."

Beyond the impressive buildings and open doors, what makes Open House New York truly special is its spirit of discovery. So if you've ever wondered what lies beyond those "staff only" signs or inside the city's most architecturally significant landmarks, this weekend is your chance to find out. All you need is curiosity, a MetroCard, and maybe a little patience — after all, some of the best experiences in New York are worth waiting for. If you have even more time in the city and really want to experience life like a local, consider checking out these 27 underrated tourist attractions