10 Interesting facts about the City That Never Sleeps

New York City is a place that offers dreams and opportunities for many. As you prepare for your big move, let Best Movers NYC equip you with astonishing facts about the City That Never Sleeps to make your transition smoother. You can never know enough, so let’s get down to learning!

#1 From New Amsterdam to a city fit for a king

New York City wasn’t always known by its modern name. Initially, it bore the Dutch name, New Amsterdam. This was in the early 17th century when it was a Dutch West India Company trading post. However, in 1664, the English seized control, and King Charles II renamed it after his brother, the Duke of York. The name change wasn’t just superficial. It brought a blend of cultural influences and expansion that crafted the base of modern New York.

#2 How did “The Big Apple” come to be?

While theories abound, most agree that it started gaining traction in the 1920s. Sports writer John J. Fitz Gerald reportedly used it in horse racing columns. The term was drawn from African American stable hands in New Orleans who referred to New York City as the “Big Apple,” symbolizing something big and desirable. As the years went by, the term caught on, and by the 1970s, it was officially embraced through an advertising campaign aimed to boost the city’s image and promote tourism. And yes, many movers Manhattan has to provide would agree, as their booking rate that constantly runs high proves that NYC is indeed a big apple everyone wants a slice of.

#3 The onset of LGBTQ+ rights in NYC

The LGBTQ+ rights movement owes much of its beginnings to the dynamic atmosphere of New York City in the late 1960s. This city played a central role in giving voice to the frustrations and hopes of the LGBTQ+ community through a series of passionate protests and demonstrations. In 1969, the historic Stonewall riots broke out right here, sparking a global movement advocating for LGBTQ+ rights. These pivotal events solidified NYC’s status as the birthplace of a monumental crusade for equality and justice.

#4 Languages in the heart of NYC

As you walk through the streets of this lively city, you might hear many languages, from Spanish and Chinese to Bengali and Urdu, all mixing in harmony. It is a sign of how welcoming the city is to people from all backgrounds, inviting them to join together in one big community. In fact, one of the exciting facts about the City That Never Sleeps is that more than 800 languages are spoken here, which further proves the theory that this is a place where many different cultures come together.

#5 The home of the first U.S. pizzeria

In 1905, Lombardi’s Pizza welcomed its first customers, becoming the very first pizzeria in the United States. This groundbreaking initiative was the brainchild of Gennaro Lombardi. But how did this pizza place come to be? Well, the owner saw the need for quick, affordable meals for the workforce in the lively neighborhood of Little Italy in Manhattan. This place brought the flavors of genuine Neapolitan pizza to the people. He introduced them to a new dining culture with a menu that included straightforward yet delicious pizzas, like the now-classic Margherita with the iconic ingredients:

• Tomatoes,
• Mozzarella and
• Basil.

As time passed, Lombardi’s continually adapted its menu, maintaining the authentic touch while catering to New Yorkers’ changing preferences. This was the birthplace of the renowned New York-style pizza, known for its thin, crispy crust. Impressively, Lombardi’s is still operating, allowing visitors to savor a piece of pizza and, thus, taste history.

#6 NYC’s Central Park is bigger than some countries

Next on our list is the famous Central Park. Covering a total of 843 acres, it is even bigger than the country of Monaco! For those just in the process of settling in the city with the residential movers NYC locals have relied on in the past, it’s comforting to know that this massive park is a place where art and nature unite. Or, rather, one that you can turn to whenever you need to escape the city life without ever leaving its grounds.

#7 Exploring the wide-reaching subway system

NYC’s subway system is one of the largest in the world, with more than 400 stations that make getting around a breeze. For companies partnering with commercial moving companies NYC is lucky to have a well-connected subway network is a huge plus, as it facilitates easy commutes in an otherwise busy environment.

#8 Looking up: BigApple’ss iconic skyscrapers

New York City’s skyline tells a story of constant growth and impressive architectural feats. Back in the late 1800s, the city saw the rise of the world’s first skyscraper. It was a modest structure with ten stories. This was just the beginning, paving the way for today’s skyline filled with immense buildings.

#9 NYC holds the title of the most populous U.S. city

It is impossible to overlook the city’s growing population. Holding the title of the most populous city in the U.S., NYC is home to over 8.5 million people. This staggering number brings a dynamic atmosphere where many cultures, traditions, and lifestyles converge. It is a place where every individual can find their niche, a place where communities thrive.

#10 A city of islands

Did you know that New York City is made up of three islands? Everyone knows about Manhattan and Staten Island. However, those moving from afar perhaps don’t realize that parts of Long Island, home to Brooklyn and Queens, also belong to the city.

How many facts about the City That Never Sleeps did you know?

Even though it is one of the most famous cities in the world, there are facts about the City That Never Sleeps that many don’t know. If you plan to make it your home, it is good to be wary of them. They might not be as essential as knowing the tax system in NYC inside-out. But, hey, one can never know too much!