15 Famous New York Facts Americans Usually Don’t Know About
15 Facts Americans Don’t Know About New York
New York is a city of surprises and hidden facts that many might not know. From quirky laws to linguistic diversity, there’s always something interesting to learn about this bustling metropolis. In this article, we’ll explore a collection of lesser-known facts about New York that are bound to raise an eyebrow or two. Let’s take a closer look at some of these unique and sometimes amusing pieces of trivia from one of the world’s most famous cities.
1. It’s a felony to sell a haunted house without telling the buyer
In New York, transparency extends into the supernatural realm. Selling a house that’s believed to be haunted without informing the buyer is a serious offense. This law stems from a court case where a buyer sued after discovering their new home had a reputation for being haunted.
2. The Big Apple was originally a term used by track announcers to refer to horse races in or around NYC
The nickname “The Big Apple” was first used by horse racing track announcers in the 1920s. It referred to the big prizes or “big apples” awarded at the races in and around New York City. Over time, the phrase evolved to symbolize the city itself.
3. New York was the first state to require license plates on cars
In 1901, New York became the pioneer in requiring automobiles to have license plates. This step was taken to better regulate the growing number of vehicles, improving road safety and management.
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4. It’s illegal to put an ice cream cone in one’s back pocket on a Sunday
One of New York’s more bizarre laws, it’s illegal to place an ice cream cone in your back pocket on a Sunday. This odd law dates back to when people would steal horses by luring them away with ice cream.
5. More than 800 languages are spoken in New York City
New York City is a melting pot of cultures and languages, with over 800 languages spoken across its five boroughs. This makes it the most linguistically diverse city in the world, where one can hear a vast array of languages simply by walking through different neighborhoods.
6. Honking your car horn unnecessarily is an offense in NYC
Unnecessary honking is not only annoying but also an offense in New York City. The law aims to reduce noise pollution and create a more pleasant environment for everyone.
7. Manhattan’s Chinatown is the largest Chinatown in the United States
Manhattan’s Chinatown holds the title of being the largest Chinatown in the U.S. This vibrant neighborhood offers an authentic taste of Chinese culture, from culinary delights to colorful festivals.
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8. New York City’s Federal Reserve Bank has the largest gold storage in the world
The Federal Reserve Bank of New York holds the largest gold storage in the world. The vault, located several feet below the street, contains billions of dollars worth of gold bars.
9. The first pizzeria in the United States opened in NYC in 1895
Lombardi’s, established in 1895 in NYC, has the honor of being the first pizzeria in the United States. This marked the start of America’s love affair with pizza, a trend that has only grown since then.
10. The Empire State building has its own zip code: 10118
The famous Empire State Building is so large that it was assigned its own zip code, 10118. This iconic skyscraper not only defines the NYC skyline but also serves as a hub for businesses and tourism.
11. Alligators in the sewer are an urban legend that dates back to the 1930s
The story of alligators living in New York’s sewers is a long-standing urban legend with roots tracing back to the 1930s. Despite numerous sightings claimed over the years, there’s no real evidence to support the existence of these sewer gators.
12. The Statue of Liberty was a gift from France in 1886
The Statue of Liberty, a symbol of freedom and democracy, was a gift to the United States from France in 1886. Standing on Liberty Island, it welcomes visitors and immigrants arriving by sea.
13. Times Square is named after The New York Times
Times Square got its name from The New York Times, which moved its headquarters to the newly built Times Building in 1904. This bustling area is now a global icon of entertainment and media.
14. NYC was briefly the U.S. capital from 1789 to 1790
New York City served as the capital of the United States for a brief period from 1789 to 1790. During this time, George Washington was inaugurated as the first President of the United States on the balcony of Federal Hall on Wall Street.
15. New York’s Central Park is the most filmed location in the world
Central Park is not only a beloved getaway for New Yorkers but also the most filmed location in the world. Its scenic landscapes and numerous attractions make it a favorite backdrop for countless movies and TV shows.
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We are Mary and Eric, the founders of Be Right Back, a blog dedicated to romance around the globe and at home.
We are Mary and Eric, the founders of Be Right Back, a blog dedicated to romance around the globe and at home. With over 10 years of experience in dating and traveling to romantic places, we share our favorite date ideas and romantic destinations to help couples level up their relationships. Having lived in and traveled through the USA, we also share our favourite things to do in the States.
With 70,000 monthly readers and 16,000 followers on social media, Be Right Back is your go-to resource for romantic trip ideas and couple activities at home and abroad.