Hundreds of rarely seen and off-limits locations across the five boroughs will open their doors to the public for OHNY Weekend — Open House New York — taking place October 17–19. The annual festival gives visitors an unparalleled behind-the-scenes look at the city’s architectural, historical, and cultural treasures, from abandoned landmarks to modern urban spectacles.

Discover New York’s Hidden Corners During OHNY Weekend

According to organizers, more than 300 sites will be available for tours and drop-in visits during the three-day event, offering a deep dive into the “soul of the city.”

“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,” said Kristin LaBuz, executive director of the festival.

For tickets and details, visitors can check the official Open House New York website.

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From Abandoned Post Offices to Rooftop Gardens

Among this year’s highlights is a rare chance to explore the long-abandoned Bronx General Post Office, a 1937 structure featuring over a dozen New Deal-era murals inspired by Walt Whitman’s poetry. These artworks celebrate working-class New Yorkers and stand as a tribute to the city’s industrial past.

Other must-see sites include:

• The MTA’s sign-making shop in Maspeth, Queens, where the city’s iconic subway signs come to life.
• The New York Sign Museum, which preserves defunct business signage from a bygone era.
• A Bronx soundstage with a life-sized city street replica.
• A canoe tour along Brooklyn’s historic and sludge-filled Gowanus Canal.

Exploring the city’s secret gardens, art, and forgotten landmarks

Visitors can also escape to a trio of secluded Midtown rooftop gardens, located near Rockefeller Plaza and Fifth Avenue. The verdant terraces feature reflective pools and sculptural plantings overlooking St. Patrick’s Cathedral.

“From this elevated vantage point, visitors can take in one of the city’s most iconic urban juxtapositions,” reads the festival description of Rockefeller Center’s 610 Loft & Garden.

A Legacy of Connection and Curiosity

Founded two decades ago and inspired by a London festival, Open House New York began as a way to reconnect communities following the September 11 attacks. Last year, it attracted over 50,000 visitors citywide.

“Open House New York Weekend is rooted in the simple but radical act of sharing the city,” LaBuz said. “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.”

For nature lovers, the Billion Oyster Project on Governor’s Island will also open its facilities, showcasing interactive displays, art exhibits, and a live oyster touch tank as part of an effort to restore New York Harbor’s ecosystem.

OHNY Weekend - Open House New York

Hundreds of hidden NYC sites to open to the public — including secret gardens, abandoned post office

Plan Your OHNY Weekend Adventure

While some popular tours — including the Advance Masonic Temple in Astoria and Con Edison’s East River Generating Station — have already sold out, over 160 sites remain open for drop-in visits.

To explore the full list of venues and tour times, visit OHNY.org. Most experiences are free and open to the public, making it the perfect weekend to rediscover the hidden heartbeat of New York City.