10 fun facts about New York City you didn't know about

New York City, often called the Big Apple, is a place everyone thinks they know. You’ve seen it in movies, read about it in magazines, and if you haven’t been — you know someone who has. New York is famous for its skyscrapers, yellow cabs, and some of the best art museums in the world. However, there are many interesting facts about New York City that might surprise you — this city has layers of stories waiting to be discovered. Dive into these fun facts about New York City and uncover what makes this metropolis truly unique.

1. New York talks the talk

New York City should be your first stop if you want to learn another language or brush up on one. Home to native speakers of about 800 different languages, around half of NYC households speak a language other than English, and more than a third of New Yorkers are foreign-born. Explore the diverse neighborhoods across the five boroughs—Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens, The Bronx, and Staten Island — and turn your ‘schlep’ into a linguistic voyage. Who knows, you might even pick up some new phrases (apart from “hey, I’m walkin’ here!”).

2. Before New York, there was “New Amsterdam"

A walk around the hyper-modern metropolis might make you forget that there was a time before all the glitter and chrome. But New York City wasn’t built overnight. In 1626, Manhattan Island was bought by Dutch settlers and named “New Amsterdam,” serving as a fur trading post for the Dutch East India Company. The city only became the New York we know today after the English took over in 1664. Explore Lower Manhattan to learn about its humble beginnings, marvel at the famous architecture, and discover interesting facts about New York City’s history.

3. The resolution that let all the light in

New York City’s distinctive skyline is recognizable around the world, and even from street level, it can be jaw-dropping. With such enormous buildings, it’s a wonder how architects filtered light through such an urban jungle. Take the Empire State Building: it’s so large it has its own zip code. To address this, the 1916 Zoning Resolution was introduced. This regulation established building guidelines to prevent new skyscrapers from blocking light to the streets below. This change made New Yorkers’ lives much brighter (and safer).

4. New York City is LGBTQIAPN+

It may come as no surprise that the cultural capital of the world is also one of the most gay-friendly cities anywhere. Did you know that more New Yorkers identify as LGBTQ+ than in any other city in the US? Even though same-sex marriage only became legal in New York in 2011, the city’s long and colorful history within the gay rights movement goes back much further. A trip to NYC wouldn’t be complete without a visit to the Stonewall Inn. This historic site, considered the birthplace of the modern fight for LGBTQ+ rights, welcomes everyone to learn about the pivotal 1969 riots and the ongoing struggle for equality.

5. City of gold

If you’re a fan of bank heist movies, you might already know Wall Street and the Federal Reserve Bank. Famous for having the largest store of gold in the world, this high-security institution holds around 7,000 tonnes of bullion! Are you hoping to climb in through an air vent to see it? That’s unlikely. But you can still learn about its fascinating history and the role it plays in the global economy. Until you can visit in person, we recommend sticking to the movies for your dose of high-stakes adventure.

6. “The Big Apple” is named after horse racing

The origin of New York’s nickname is something of a mystery. But one thing’s for sure: it’s not because the city resembles a fruit. Instead, the term “Big Apple” comes from an unlikely source — horse racing commentary. Journalist John J. Fitz Gerald coined the term in a 1921 article, stating, “There’s only one Big Apple. That’s New York.” This nickname has since become synonymous with the city.

7. Even library cards are bigger

“Knowledge is power,” as the saying goes. With a New York library card, locals have access to over 50 million books, making it a truly powerful possession! Open to the general public, the New York Public Library is the third-largest in the world and a must-see for book lovers. Behind the famous lion statues at the library’s grand facade are elegant reading rooms perfect for snuggling up with a good book. With some added time at home, New Yorkers can finally get through that extensive reading list and discover interesting facts about New York City.

8. Pearls line the streets (sort of)

The Dutch traders who formed New Amsterdam were blown away by the number of oysters on the Ellis and Liberty Islands. So much so, that they named them "Little Oyster Island" and “Great Oyster Island”. To cement their admiration, they even used oyster shells to pave present-day Pearl Street! Today, New York’s avenues are still lined with street food, showcasing what New York is famous for — the vibrant and diverse food culture. On a food and drink tour through the city, you can taste your way through the authentic and sometimes artistic street food cuisine.

9. Cab drivers can’t honk

Thinking of the Big Apple, the first thing that springs to mind is probably bustling streets with yellow cabs beeping (and maybe someone yelling, “They’re walkin’ here”). But in reality, cab drivers are fined heavily for unnecessary honking. They only use their horns for emergencies. This is just one of the interesting facts about New York City that might surprise you. As for water taxis? Well, you’ll just have to ask those cab drivers on the Hudson River tours when you’re next in town.

10. High ‘cawfee’ consumption

Looking to fit in with the locals? Sit outside a cafe with a large iced coffee you can sip while you walk the streets. According to data collected from a global health survey, New Yorkers gulp down 7 times as much coffee as their fellow Americans. Never slowing down, residents of the City That Never Sleeps are also the healthiest urbanites in the US. You can kickstart your local appreciation (and addiction) in Greenwich Village, where you can taste your way through town and experience what New York City is famous for — its vibrant coffee culture.

FAQs

What is New York City famous for?

New York City is famous for its iconic landmarks like the Statue of Liberty, Empire State Building, and Central Park. It’s also known for its vibrant arts scene, diverse food culture, Broadway theaters, and as a global financial hub.

Why is New York City called “The Big Apple"?

The nickname “The Big Apple” originated from horse racing commentary in the 1920s. Journalist John J. Fitz Gerald popularized the term, referring to New York City as “The Big Apple” in his articles, emphasizing it as the ultimate prize or destination.

How many languages are spoken in New York City?

New York City is one of the most linguistically diverse cities in the world, with over 800 languages spoken by its residents.

What are some interesting historical facts about New York City?

New York City was originally called New Amsterdam when it was settled by Dutch traders in 1626. It was later renamed New York in 1664 after the English took control. The city has played a pivotal role in American history, from the Revolutionary War to being a hub for immigration at Ellis Island.

Is honking illegal for cab drivers in New York City?

Yes, cab drivers in New York City are fined heavily for unnecessary honking. They are only allowed to use their horns in emergencies, helping to reduce noise pollution in the bustling city streets.