How well do you think you know New York City secrets? It may be true that you can get from Times to Union Square without so much as glancing at Google Maps. Perhaps you even have a favorite shortcut, strategically personalized to avoid street traffic while also just-so-happening to pass by one of your go-to coffee shops or indie boutiques along the way. Though, the city that never sleeps is also full of secrets.
After all, a place with over 400 years’ worth of history is bound to have plenty of lesser-known—yet nonetheless fascinating—facts and stories that have long lived in the shadows of more publicized events and places. And while these bits of lore veer on the obscure, they no doubt contribute to the energy, color, and cultural makeup of such a storied city. Think you know the city? From the equestrian origins of its nickname and secret subway stations, to a 0.0000797113-acre property, test your knowledge with nine of New York City’s most thrilling secrets below.