Because there’s something oddly romantic about weeping quietly to yourself on a boat as it glides across New York Harbor. The Statue of Liberty provides a rather cinematic background, too.

We’re not going to recommend any one street in this Manhattan neighborhood; the thing that makes it perfect for a good public cry is the fact that there are so many small, hidden side streets, that it’s easy to let yourself wander and work through those emotions that’ve been welling up inside.

With 18 miles of books, there are plenty of spots where you won’t be noticed if you’re having an emotional moment.

The public bathrooms within Bryant Park happen to be among the nicest park bathrooms that you’ll find anywhere in the city, and you know what that means: tissues when you need them most!

The benefits of this newly opened public space for weepy New Yorkers are numerous: It’s open to the public, it’s a serene oasis, and there’s plenty of space where you can sit by yourself.

The middle of this busy thoroughfare is typically so clogged with people that no one will notice if you’re shedding a tear or two.

This may seem like an unlikely candidate, what with all of the school kids and commotion, but here’s the thing: There are so many nooks and crannies within this vast museum that you can easily sneak away for a moment of reprieve. Our recommendation: Head to the panorama section or dip into one of the theaters—who doesn’t want a comfy seat when they cry?  

Skip the Cloisters and head to the benches overlooking the Palisades, across the Hudson River; the scenery will be a balm after you’ve spent some time deep in your feelings.

Amid the bustle of the Financial District hides a secluded garden oasis above the city streets. If you’re searching for a moment of solitude, the Elevated Acre offers a lush garden retreat perfect for pensive thought. An escalator setback from the sidewalk will take you there at 55 Water Street.

The Promenade’s cinematic views are most often enjoyed by photo-snapping tourists and neighborhood residents, but it’s not a bad place to go if you need a quiet place to sob for a bit. (It’s especially good at night, when the Instagrammers have cleared out and you’re more likely to get a bench to yourself.)

Remember that episode of 30 Rock in which Liz Lemon and her boyfriend, Criss, take a trip to the Ikea in Red Hook, and get in a massive fight that nearly ends their relationship? That’s not totally fictional; At any given moment, you’ll likely see someone having some kind of meltdown at Ikea. What that means: if you need to have a quiet cry—or, hell, a hysterical jag—it’s highly unlikely that anyone will notice.

You won’t look out of place if you’re weeping here; it is a cemetery, after all. But there’s something about the Gothic architecture and the overall vibe of this Brooklyn landmark that lends itself to ennui, so go ahead and let the tears fly if need be.

If you’ve lived in New York City for long enough, chances are you’ve had at least one emotional breakdown on the subway—and blessedly, most commuters are too absorbed in their own issues to notice. (Just be sure to carry tissues with you at all times; you never know when that moment might hit.)

We’re of the mind that any spot with an idyllic cityscape view is a good place to let the feels out. In Astoria Park, you’ll find plenty of sprawling waterfront views ideal for contemplating life’s quandaries.

This pocket of serenity on Staten Island is an excellent place to contemplate life, the universe, and all of those other mysteries of existence—and if that inspires a bit of sobbing, so be it.