Unknown New York: An Artist Uncovers the City's Hidden Treasures - Hardcover

by Jesse Richards (Author)

An intrepid and gifted artist uncovers and illustrates more than 100 surprising, enchanting, and sometimes downright bizarre nooks and crannies that make New York such a compelling city.

It's no surprise that New York City is the most visited destination in the U.S., and has proved itself to be an endlessly fascinating exploration ground to visitors and natives alike. Unknown New York walks readers through the vibrant, hidden, and forgotten worlds churning beneath the surface of the city. From the oldest bridge -- a footbridge described as a "red sidewalk through the sky" -- to a quirky and little-known Superhero Supply Store in Brooklyn to the original and abandoned Hall of Fame in the Bronx, the author takes us on a magical mystery tour through the city many people think they know.

Each entry presents a brief and compelling description of a hidden park, historical site, niche shop, etc and is accompanied by a charming four-color illustration by the author.

Divided into chapters titled Hidden History, Humble Parks, On the Street, Shopping Spree, Quiet Realms, Central Park, and Excusions, Jesse Richards reveals to us such extraordinary sites as the first Hall of Fame, a church where an attempted assassination took place in the 1800's, a part of the Bronx that resembles Capri, the many pocket parks hidden in plain sight, the less frequented corners of Central Park, unusual shops conveying surprising items for all ages, a waterfall tunnel in midtown, and so much more. Also included are curated walks to lead you to several sites in an afternoon. There's a Downtown River Walk, Neighborhood Parks Walk, Midtown Book-Lover's Walk, and a Hidden Central Park Walk.

Author Biography

An artist and explorer of the urban landscape, Jesse Richards has found varied and strange locations all over New York by leading one of the city's largest drawing groups for the past 15 years. Now more than 8,000 members, they sketch in parks and museums and concealed cul-de-sacs all over NYC. A designer by day, he also guides tourists around NYC neighborhoods with the non-profit Big Apple Greeter.