New York is the city that never sleeps and where opportunities are endless. However, at times it can be overwhelming in the Big Apple. Thoughts of moving away from home, pursuing a new career, or starting at a new school can lead to shedding a few tears in public. I’ve personally had a few public outcries on the train or while walking the streets of Lower Manhattan.

If you need to let all out and don’t want to risk onlookers judging you, Curbed New York has revealed the best and worst locations to cry in NYC.  Staten Island Ferry and Manhattan were named the top places to shed a few tears, according to Curbed New York‘s editors.  Check out the full list below.

Staten Island Ferry 

There is “something oddly romantic about weeping quietly to yourself on a boat as it glides across New York Harbor,” according to Curbed New York, and they were right. It kind of reminds you of a love scene in a movie. 

West Village 

West Village is one of the most picturesque walkable neighborhoods in Lower Manhattan. You’ll have no problem ducking into one of these small streets to shed a tear or two.

Gay St in Greenwich Village, Manhattan, New York, NY, USA

Strand Book Store 

Get lost and find a spot within 18 miles of new, used and rare books, gifts, and other collectibles. After your therapeutic release, purchase a book or admire the paintings on the walls to uplift your mood. 

Chelsea Piers 

Chelsea Piers is a great waterfront location where you’re guaranteed to shed a few tears, either for yourself or while watching one of the many countless weddings that have taken place there. 

Bryant Park Bathrooms 

Curbed New York got it right with this one. I’ve never seen a cleaner park bathroom in New York. Bryant Park is an outdoor hotspot in the middle of Midtown’s chaos. Their bathroom offers fresh flowers, regularly updated art installations, and a full-time attendant so you’ll never run out of tissue if you forget your own. 

Ford Foundation Center

This serene oasis, surrounded by 39 species of plants in a spacious, light-filled atrium garden, encourages peace and reflection. The garden sometimes closes for special events so make sure to review their website

Ford Foundation Center

Fifth Avenue

Between the overcrowded streets and packed retail shops, Fifth Avenue is easily one of the most famous and busiest streets in the city. I bet if you look up, you just may run into someone weeping their eyes out. 

The Metropolitan Museum of Art

It’s the perfect place to cry when you think about it. Others won’t know whether you’re actually crying or just so moved by the artwork and paintings, either way, they won’t bother you.

American Museum of Natural History 

Curbed recommends heading to the panorama section or dipping into one of the museum’s theatres for a cry session. Just be mindful of the younger ones running around. 

Fort Tyron Park 

Overlook the Hudson River and the beautiful scenery while you sob for however long you need to. 

Fort Tryon in Manhattan | Getty Images

Brooklyn Heights Promenade 

The Promenade offers a grand view of the Brooklyn Bridge, East River, and Downtown Manhattan.  It also serves as the backdrops for numerous scenes in the Netflix series “She’s Gotta Have It” and it looks even better at night.

Brooklyn Heights Promenade

Ikea Brooklyn 

Get there mid-week or evenings on weekends, it’s less crowded and lessens the chance of running into someone while you give in to your feelings.  

Greenwood Cemetery 

Visiting any cemetery brings a range of emotions that absolutely no one will judge you for, whether you know someone or wish to pay respects to a legendary artist like Jean-Michael Basquiat, you won’t be the only one letting the tears flow.

Subway

I had my first meltdown on the subway earlier this year. As much as I tried to hold back my emotions, I couldn’t. But most train riders were too busy absorbed with their phones, on the computer or watching the train street dancers hop around poles. 

Subway train in 125 st. Station in New York City | Getty Images

New York Chinese Scholar’s Garden 

This garden oasis house features that embody poetry, reflection, and mountains that resemble paintings of Buddhist monks. Crying visitors can experience zigzag bridges and paths, which Chinese philosophers believe to ward off evil spirits. 

If you ever feel like you need to release or shed a few tears, stop by one of these locations and don’t forget your kleenex.