Kick off the new year, and the new decade, with our Untapped picks of things to do. We’ve selected some of the most exciting events happening during this last week of 2019, going into 2020. Check out what is going on in New York City this week as we celebrate the new year!
Friday, December 27th
Turn your Christmas tree into mulch at Prospect Park or any of New York City’s participating parks. Mulchfest is on, running from now through January 11th. Last year, more than 28,000 trees were recycled and turned into wood chips that are used in New York City parks. Check the map to find a chipping location near you.
Saturday, December 28th
Explore the abandoned hospital complex on Ellis Island which has been closed to the public for over sixty years. On this hard hat tour, gain access to areas of the 29-building complex that once served as an FBI office, the laundry facilities, the morgue, and more. Along the way, see haunting images from the Ellis Island archives blown up to life size and pasted on the hospital’s crumbling walls, windows, doors and floors as part of an art installation by world renowned artist JR.
Meet New York City’s finest canines at the Museum of the Dog’s NYPD Transit Bureau K-9 Unit Live Demonstration. Learn how police dogs are trained to detect and protect. You will see the dogs in action working alongside their handler partners, and learn about the Retired Police Canine Foundation.
Sunday, December 29th
Peek behind the curtain on a backstage tour of The Met Opera at Lincoln Center. On this behind-the-scenes tour, guests will get to see areas of the world’s largest repertory opera house that the public never get to see. From prop rooms and wig shops to dressing rooms and scenery storage, see how The Met Opera’s grand productions come to life.
Join The Museum of Interesting Things and HoloCenter for a special exhibitions and presentations on holographic art followed by a Secret Speakeasy. The event will explore an history of the future of holography. The event will feature presentations from some of the HoloCenter’s best artist. The HoloCenter is an organization dedicated to promoting and developing holographic artwork.
Monday, December 30th
Take part in a deluxe tour of the landmarked Woolworth Building.Once the tallest skyscraper in the world, the Woolworth is one of New York City’s rare interior landmarks. On this tour, you will explore the gilded, Cathedral-like lobby designed by architect Cass Gilbert for retail magnate Frank Woolworth. Get up close to the shimmering mosaic ceilings on the mezzanine level, see the decadently decorated elevators, spot the hidden symbols in the ornamentation and more!
Tuesday, December 31st
Can’t let go of Christmas just yet? Watch a re-enactment of Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol in the parlor of the Merchants House Museum. Actor John Kevin Jones embodies the spirit of Charles Dickens in a captivating and critically acclaimed one hour performance created from Dickens’ own script. The show takes place the elegant and intimate parlor of the landmarked 1832 house.
From taking a chilly swim to smashing your bad memories, check out our picks for alternative ways to ring in the new year!
Conjure up a happy new year at The Cauldron on Stone Street. This unique bar is hosting a New Year’s Eve party with a magical twist. Guests will get to watch a live stream of the ball drop, taste with champagne and make a “potion.” Using magic wand and molecular mixology, you will concoct a drinkable elixir.
Thursday, January 2nd
Discover of the Secrets of Grand Central Terminal on an expert led tour with Untapped New York. Whether you travel through this terminal everyday or have never been, you are sure to find something surprising or learn something new. Guest on this tour will uncover hidden murals, peek into the secret glass walkways, locate the little known tennis courts, and more!
See our full lists of upcoming public tours and Insider events!
