New York, NY – From private rooftop gardens to secret art spaces and historic fire towers, Open House New York is back this weekend, offering residents and visitors rare access to over 150 exclusive locations across the city. The annual event, which runs through Sunday, October 19, celebrates New York’s rich architectural, cultural, and creative heritage—revealing spaces that are typically closed to the public.
The Event: A Rare Peek Behind the Curtain
Each year, Open House New York (OHNY) turns the city into a living museum, inviting participants to explore some of its most iconic, historic, and hidden places. According to executive director Kristin LaBuz, this year’s edition includes more than 300 total locations, with half of them completely free to visit.
“Our tours range from historic houses to penthouses, art galleries, sanitation spaces,” said LaBuz. “It gives New Yorkers a hall pass to explore the city.”
The festival allows lifelong residents and first-time visitors alike to experience New York from a new perspective—peeking into buildings, studios, and landmarks rarely seen by the public.
Highlights: From Rooftop Gardens to Stone Carving Workshops
This year’s lineup is filled with diverse destinations, each representing a unique side of New York’s history and creativity.
One of the newest and most anticipated additions is one of three private rooftop gardens at Rockefeller Center, offering panoramic views of Rockefeller Plaza and the art deco facades that define midtown Manhattan.
“You are going up to spaces that are never open to the public,” said LaBuz. “It’s a completely different way to experience the city.”
Visitors can also stop by the New York Sign Museum, where decades of the city’s visual history are on display through restored neon and hand-painted signage. Another hands-on experience awaits at the Pellettieri Stone Carvers Academy in the Garment District, where guests can learn the ancient craft of stone carving from master artisans.
Community Spaces: Culture and Creativity in the Bronx
For a taste of vintage New York, the festival includes a stop at La Bodega, a private event space in the South Bronx that pays tribute to the city’s golden era.
Co-owner Jonathan Guerrido describes it as a space built for nostalgia and culture.
“I want you to walk in and be like, wow. You’re not expecting this,” Guerrido said. “This is an homage to nostalgic New York City… I want you to feel transported.”
Lined with sets that mimic streets from the five boroughs, La Bodega has hosted celebrity parties, music videos, comedy shows, and community events, all while celebrating the energy and creativity of the South Bronx.
“We built this for the culture of the city, for the South Bronx especially,” Guerrido added. “It’s a huge honor to be part of Open House New York and featured among so many iconic venues.”
Outdoor Landmarks: Views and History Combined
For those who prefer open-air exploration, Marcus Garvey Park in Harlem offers one of the most memorable experiences of the festival. Visitors can climb the Mount Morris Fire Watchtower, a 47-foot-tall landmark dating back to the 1850s, and even ring its 3,000-pound bell while taking in sweeping views of Harlem and Central Park.
The Fire Watchtower stands as a reminder of New York’s early fire detection systems and remains one of the city’s last surviving cast-iron towers—a true hidden gem for history enthusiasts.
Why It Matters: New York’s Spirit of Curiosity and Pride
Organizers say the continued popularity of Open House New York shows how deeply residents care about their city.
“New Yorkers are so proud of their city and so curious about their surroundings,” said LaBuz. “They love bragging rights—being places no one else gets to go. This event checks all three boxes.”
From architectural icons to underground art spaces, OHNY celebrates access, discovery, and connection—values that define New York’s enduring cultural landscape.
Conclusion
As Open House New York 2025 continues through the weekend, residents have a unique chance to rediscover the city they thought they knew. Whether touring rooftop gardens, hidden workshops, or landmark towers, the event proves once again that New York’s greatest treasures are often the ones hidden in plain sight.
What’s your favorite hidden spot in New York City? Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below.
