The Strangest Road Names in New York and How They Got Them
In the heart of Manhattan, just a short walk from the bustle of Times Square, lies the small but fascinating neighborhood of NoHo. Amidst its historic cast-iron buildings and vibrant arts scene, one might stumble upon Minetta Lane, a street whose name traces back to the Dutch colonial era. The word “Minetta” comes from the Minetta Creek, which once flowed through this part of the city before being buried underground. Walking along this narrow, cobblestone lane offers a glimpse into New York’s layered history, where the name echoes the lost natural waterways beneath the urban jungle. Visiting in the fall, when the autumn light casts long shadows between the buildings, adds a poetic touch to this hidden gem.
Upstate, about an hour’s drive northeast of Albany, lies the town of Schroon Lake, nestled in the Adirondack Mountains. Near the village, you’ll find the quirky “Boreas Ponds Road,” which leads to the Boreas Ponds Trail. This trail is known for its calm, scenic waters and an easy hike that meanders through dense forest and wetlands. The name “Boreas” is drawn from Greek mythology—Boreas being the god of the north wind—aptly chosen to reflect the chilly breezes that sweep through the Adirondacks. The road and trail gained attention recently as part of a large land restoration project, making it a symbol of nature’s resilience. Visit during early summer to catch the bird migrations and the gentle mist rising off the ponds.
In the Finger Lakes region, about 30 minutes south of Rochester, the small village of Naples is home to a street with an unusual moniker: “Canandaigua Street,” which confusingly points away from the nearby city of Canandaigua, nearly 20 miles to the east. This name reflects early settler ambitions, a time when towns hoped to capitalize on the success and prominence of their neighbors. Strolling down Canandaigua Street is a reminder of the interconnected histories of these lake towns, and the nearby Naples Grape Festival celebrates the area’s viticulture heritage, inviting visitors to enjoy local wines. The vibrant grapevines in late September transform the landscape and deepen the story behind the street’s name.
Heading to Staten Island, a ferry ride from Lower Manhattan, lies the neighborhood of Tottenville. One of its streets, aptly called “Pleasure Avenue,” stands out as a remnant of the area’s past as a popular summer resort destination during the 19th and early 20th centuries. Pleasure Avenue once hosted grand hotels and amusement parks where city dwellers escaped the urban heat. Today, visitors can explore the Conference House Park, where the historic Conference House sits—a building tied to a Revolutionary War peace negotiation. Late spring or early fall, when the park’s gardens bloom or turn golden, is the perfect time to stroll Pleasure Avenue and imagine the joy-filled crowds of decades past.
In the Hudson Valley, about 90 minutes north of New York City, the village of Cold Spring boasts a charming Main Street with an intriguingly named side street: “Fifth Avenue.” While the name might evoke Manhattan grandeur, here it takes on a local flavor, winding through a community known for antique shops, riverside dining, and access to the scenic Hudson Highlands State Park. Hikers often use Fifth Avenue as a starting point to tackle the Breakneck Ridge Trail, one of the region’s most popular—and challenging—climbs. The steep ascent rewards adventurers with sweeping views of the Hudson River, especially striking in autumn when the foliage explodes in fiery color.
Far to the north, in the Thousand Islands region near the city of Watertown, the tiny hamlet of Clayton features “Sandy Creek Road.” This road leads to Sandy Creek State Park, a favorite spot for camping, fishing, and swimming on the St. Lawrence River. The name is rooted in the sandy shores that line the creek feeding into the river, a natural contrast to the rocky, rugged islands that dominate the area. Visitors during summer can enjoy canoeing along the calm waterway, where the name’s literal meaning resonates with the texture of the land and water. The tranquility and clear waters here make it a standout among New York’s many state parks.
Lastly, in the Catskill Mountains about two hours northwest of New York City, the town of Woodstock has a street called “Moonbeam Road.” While it sounds like something out of a fantasy, the road reflects Woodstock’s bohemian spirit and its deep connection to the arts and countercultural movements. The name conjures images of moonlit nights and creative inspiration, and it is close to the Woodstock Artists Association & Museum, where visitors can immerse themselves in local art history. Spring and summer evenings, when the town hosts open-air concerts, make Moonbeam Road a magical pathway for those seeking a blend of natural beauty and artistic soul.
Each of these roads tells a unique story embedded in its name, connecting visitors to New York’s diverse landscapes and histories. From urban relics in Manhattan to peaceful trails in the Adirondacks, these oddly named streets invite exploration, revealing how place, nature, and culture intertwine in unexpected ways. Whether wandering a cobbled lane or hiking alongside a shimmering pond, you uncover the rich tapestry behind the names that might otherwise pass unnoticed on a map.