A guide to the Big Apple’s unique neighbourhoods
Everyone’s familiar with New York’s famous sights, whether they’ve actually been there or not. Places like the Empire State Building, Statue of Liberty and Brooklyn Bridge are known the world over thanks to their appearances in countless TV shows and films – so you might think you know all about the Big Apple. But, it actually has a lot of unique little neighbourhoods that each has its own distinct flair. Today, I’ll be talking about some of my favourites. Meanwhile, you can click here to find out more about the practical side of visiting New York.
Soho
Let’s kick things off with Soho. This neighbourhood is in Lower Manhattan, south of Houston Street, and is renowned as a top shopping destination. What’s great about hitting the stores here is that there’s a seriously eclectic mix to choose from – think everything from designer outlets to taxidermy shops (yes, really). I’ll give you a few examples of interesting places to drop by, but before I do I’d like to point out that this part of New York is also home to some interesting little art galleries and restaurants, so don’t feel like you need to stick to the shops like glue.
But, returning to said shops, Housing Works Bookstore Cafe is one of my favourites. As its name suggests, it’s both a shop and a good place to grab a coffee and a bite to eat, with the profits going towards helping the local homeless. On its shelves you’ll find a great mix of rare books, literary fiction and nonfiction.
Chocolate lovers, meanwhile, should make a beeline for Jacque Torres Chocolate at 350 Hudson Street. Alongside individual chocolates, there’s a full ice-cream parlour here too! If it’s clothes you’re after, though, head to Opening Ceremony on 35 Howard Street to browse togs from around the world.
Greenwich Village
Often referred to just as ‘the Village’, Greenwich Village is a really charming part of the city. You’ll find it over on the west side of Lower Manhattan and are likely to notice immediately that it’s got a really lovely historic feel that makes it stand out from other New York neighbourhoods.
One of the ultimate must-sees here is Washington Square Park, which is not only one of the best places to hang out, relax and people-watch, but also a historical spot in its own right. It’s often acted as a cultural meeting place, and famously saw clashes between beatniks and the working class back in the mid-20th century.
I also recommend heading to New York University’s Grey Art Gallery, which is at 100 Washington Square East. What I like about this place is that its displays are geared towards giving you insights into the history of cultural life in the city, which is particularly fascinating.
Little Italy
Last up we have Little Italy – it’s not hard to guess what this neighbourhood is all about! Home to a lot of the city’s Italian population, this is a great place to discover Italian restaurants and shops, as well as gain an insight into the life of Italian Americans.
In fact, there’s a museum dedicated to exactly that. Head over to 155 Mulberry Street and you’ll be greeted by the Italian American Museum, which charts how Italian Americans have contributed to US culture and history, as well as documents their struggles.
In terms of restaurants, don’t miss a trip to Il Palazzo if you want an authentic taste of Italian cuisine. Serving up classic fare, this place offers a quintessentially Italian dining experience – and you can eat in a lovely little outdoor courtyard to boot.
