11 Awesome Hidden Gems in NYC

New York City, NY is a vibrant city full of memorable photo opportunities, from major landmarks like the Empire State Building to hidden nooks and crannies in all five boroughs. However, if you’re looking to get off the beaten path and explore some spaces that aren’t swarming with tourists, check out this list of 11 awesome hidden gems in NYC.

All of these incredible venues are available to book through Peerspace, the largest online marketplace for hourly venue rentals. Peerspace makes it easy to discover and rent unique hidden gems in cities across the globe. And, of course, New York City is home to some amazing options!

Our list includes public spaces to private venues available to rent by the day or hour. These places are perfect for a small gathering, a creative photoshoot, or even a musical performance! Just take a look at our top picks for inspiration.

1. Gather in a designer black and white space in Williamsburg

Are you looking for hidden gems in NYC with timeless appeal and unmistakable elegance? Then you need to see this one-of-a-kind Williamsburg designer workspace. It is 2,400 square feet of open space, with high ceilings, a skylight, and custom and MCM furnishings. The space was once a foundry and is now popular as a coworking space and production location.

Another perk that comes with using Peerspace to book venues is that you can read reviews from past renters before making a decision. And this Brooklyn beauty has plenty of raves! Here is one example: “What an amazing space this is! James was extremely responsive and helpful at every turn. I booked it for a branding photoshoot and from the moment I arrived I knew I made the right choice. Highly recommended. Thanks so much for having us!”

2. Reach new heights on a scenic rooftop with an amazing view of Midtown

The Top of the Rock may have one of the highest views of Manhattan. But if you want to have time and space for a photoshoot, you’ll need something a little more private. Fortunately, this rooftop venue in Midtown is available to rent on Peerspace, with 4,000 square feet of space across multiple rooftops and 1,000 square feet of indoor photo studio space. It’s also managed by a professional photographer, so the space is doubly suitable for fashion and glamour shots, portraits, and more!

In fact, check out what a fellow photographer shared in a Peerspace review after booking this space for a shoot. “This really is the best rooftop in NYC. The variety of levels and angles made this a photographer’s dream. Paul was an amazing host and I’ll definitely be back.”

3. Escape to a whimsical, elegant “little palace” in Brooklyn

This beautifully decorated Bushwick loft is one of our favorite hidden gems in NYC. It’s also incredibly versatile since it’s suitable for photoshoots, birthday parties, small weddings, baby showers, and more. With a checkered floor, a wall lined with mirrors, and two themed bedrooms, you’ll find plenty of inspiration in this unique space. Host a tea party, a champagne brunch, or even a musical performance. Best of all, you can arrange for a formal dining setup as an add-on service through the venue’s helpful local host.

This loft has tons of five-star reviews, including this one: “A gorgeous venue with all the necessary amenities included. My guests had an amazing time, and the hosts were very responsive and accommodating.”

These awesome team outing ideas in NYC will have you looking forward to your next work day!

4. Party it up at this creative venue with abstract decor in Bushwick

If you’re looking for a truly creative, one-of-a-kind space for a production or performance, then check out this eccentric Bushwick bar and creative venue! It’s a versatile space with an amazing history, once used to host drag shows, punk rock concerts, private events, and film screenings. We love its eye-catching retro color palette, ornate architecture, Barbie pink bar, and disco ball, which further enhance its production value.

A Peerspace user who booked a production here had this to say about the experience: “This was an amazing space!!! The decor, lighting, and details were an amazing set for our film shoot. Emilie and her team were so accommodating from start to finish!”

5. Make memories when you host your event on this Clinton Hill private rooftop

This private rooftop terrace with panoramic city views in Clinton Hill provides you with one of the city’s best hidden gems: a spacious rooftop with incredible panoramic views! It’s a 3,000-square-foot space atop a renovated warehouse that consists of a wooden deck, a raised stage for a performance, multiple lounge seating areas, and atmospheric lighting.

The host also offers amazing optional add-on services, like a pet allowance fee, the services of a professional photographer, and allowances for eating and drinking on the roof. We love the idea of hosting a concert here, a production, a surprise proposal, you name it!

“Couldn’t have been happier with how my movie screening went,” shares a Peerspace reviewer of their event at this Clinton Hill roof. “The space was well-lit at night and had plenty of space for all of my guests. They even helped us with the event planning and found us a last-minute caterer. Danny and the team really saved the day and I couldn’t recommend them enough!”

6. Create magic at a castle-like home in Rockaway Park

Located in Queens on the Southern tip of Long Island, Rockaway Beach is one of our top hidden gems in New York City. And this castle-like grand home on the Bay is the perfect place to capture it on camera. With rooftop views, beach access, and an indoor spa and sauna, you can rent this venue for a fashion shoot, music video, and more. With 4,200 square feet of space, you can fit up to 75 people. But be sure to inquire with the host to confirm the rental rate and the number of guests.

“Amazing location, seamless communication, and a true pleasure to work with Claudia on our shoot,” shares a Peerspace reviewer, “Variety of indoor and outdoor spaces for production/prep/shooting, as well as very convenient (and quiet/off the beaten path) access to Rockaway Beach. Claudia was super helpful on all needs–look forward to shooting with her again.” Enjoy this amazing location yourself and book it today on Peerspace!

7. Experience total creative freedom at this all-inclusive multi-set studio in East Williamsburg

We think that some of the best hidden gems in NYC for photoshoots are beautiful multi-set studios that allow you the use of several distinct scenes for one price. And this all-inclusive multi-set studio in Williamsburg is one of the best we’ve seen! It is an 800-square-foot space with several scenes complete with their own backdrops and furnishings. On top of that, you can use several other props and professional photography equipment included with the rental. It’s the type of studio that can save you time and money while maximizing your creativity.

In fact, as a Peerspace reviewer shares: “This was an awesome location. We were able to get super creative. The host email perfect instructions with videos. I would definitely book studio again.”

8. Feel miles away from the city at a unique townhouse in the East Village

Looking for a venue with unique architecture for a photoshoot or small gathering with up to 50 guests? Check out this modern townhouse in the East Village! It features a fireplace, a chef’s kitchen with bar seating, an atrium, and incredible skylights. The highlight is definitely the lush community gardens and private patio garden with an illuminated pergola. It offers a charming escape from the city for you and your friends!

It’s very production-friendly too, judging from Peerspace reviews like this: “Bright, spacious, quiet space in a great location. The host Alex was very responsive and helpful and let our team do a walkthrough before the shoot to check lighting etc. Large outdoor patio was a great spot for cast/crew to hangout. Would highly recommend for a photo or video shoot.”

Need more photoshoot inspiration? Then you need to see our studio photoshoot ideas in New York City post next!

9. Feel the sensual vibes at a stylish lounge in Greenwich Village

This red-lit lounge in Greenwich Village is perfect for a private party, photoshoot, or musical performance. The plush furniture, velvet drapes, and exotic lamps provide a sexy, stylish backdrop for your photoshoot or party. The venue includes two floors, each with its own sound system, and a stage with lighting and A/V equipment to host a performance or screening. You can order drinks from the on-site bar, and you’re welcome to bring in outside catering.

Previous renters love this space’s ambiance and host. Like with this review: “My experience with MadameX was absolutely lovely. Not only was it a nice place but the staff was ever so helpful and available on que to help us with whatever was needed. Would definitely book this location again and highly recommend it to others.”

10. Get editorial-worthy photos at a private Parisian retreat on the Upper West Side

Looking for hidden gems in NYC that have a touch of something extra? Then you’ll love this tres chic apartment in the Upper West Side! It is a 1,400-square-foot venue that dates back to the 1890s and has retained that period’s structural elegance. The host has decorated it to resemble an airy and high-end Parisian apartment, complete with unique wallpaper, beautiful flooring, and exquisite furniture. The New York Times, New York Post, and CNBC have all featured this stylish space. And you can be the next one added to that distinguished list!

A production coordinator who booked this Parisian space for a production shared this insightful review: “This Peerspace is a gem in the Upper West Side. Beautiful with lots of character & natural light – it was perfect for filming an interview. Hattie was a wonderful host – communicative & very helpful. We’d love to come back!”

11. Knock back a drink or two at this moody vintage music venue and bar in Bed-Stuy

Keep the good vibes going when you host your next production or event at this music venue and bar in Bedford-Stuyvesant. It’s one of our favorite hidden gems in NYC when you’re seeking a place that boasts vintage vibes with exceptional modern services. We’re crazy about the checkerboard floors, the combination of the orange booths and teal walls, and the warm lighting throughout.

It also offers you something unique on each of its three floors, including the main bar and the velvet-walled dance space. It’s a great spot for creating cool content or just gathering with the people you love for a fun night in the city.

Check out what a singer shared in her Peerspace review of this Bed-Stuy bar: “Beautiful spot! Extremely professional and helpful…. There’s not a lot great spots in Brooklyn but this by far the best event space I booked Will book again 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥”

Hidden gems in NYC: conclusion

We think this list of hidden gems in NYC covers a wide range of what the city has to offer. Whether you want to rent a lounge for a private party, or a rooftop with a view, you’ll find hundreds of more New York City event venues that are available to rent from local hosts and include options you won’t find in a tourist guidebook.

Just search by location, date, size, budget, and other filters to find a space that’s just right for your photoshoot or event. Then, reach out to your local host to arrange for catering, equipment rentals, and other add-ons!

Find more hidden gems in NYC on Peerspace