Top ten out-of-the-way venues

Dorsky Gallery
This not-for-profit is a space for independent curatorial endeavors, which means they host a variety of shows that aren’t beholden to a consistent vision. 1103 45th Ave between 11th and 21st Sts, Long Island City, Queens (718-937-6317)

Studio Museum in Harlem
Combine a trip to see this museum, famous for its art about or by those of African and Caribbean descent, with a visit to the vibrant attractions of 125th Street. 144 W 125th St between Adam Clayton Powell Jr. Blvd (Seventh Ave) and Malcolm X Blvd (Lenox Ave), Harlem (212-864-4500, studiomuseum.org)

Queens Museum of Art
Go for the giant globe in Corona Park or the incredible indoor 3-D panorama of the city; this place is well worth the trip. New York City Building, 111th St at 49th St, Flushing Meadows–Corona Park, Queens Queens (718-592-9700, queensmuseum.org)

Deitch Projects Long Island City space
This megaspace right on the water hosts gigantic murals and installations. 4-40 44th Dr at Vernon Blvd, Long Island City, Queens (212-343-7300)

The Cloisters
Who doesn’t love a Unicorn Tapestry? 99 Margaret Corbin Dr, Fort Tryon Park (212-923-3700)

Pocket Utopia
A special project of artist and curator Austin Thomas, this space has a real DIY feeling, as well as the support and involvement of the surrounding community. 1037 Flushing Ave between Morgan Ave and Vandervoort Pl, Bushwick, Brooklyn (917-400-3869)

Broadway 1602
The totally unlikely location of this gallery, in the Garment District, should not be an impediment to seeing the consistently excellent shows of German curator Anke Kempe. 1182 Broadway between 28th and 29th Sts, suite 1602 (212-481-0362)

Socrates Sculpture Park
Come for the art and the views of the East River, which provides backdrop to this outdoor venue. 32-01 Vernon Blvd at Broadway, Long Island City, Queens (718-956-1819)