Visiting New York City? If you haven’t decided where to stay (yet) check out our helpful guide on Where to Stay in New York City (The 10 Best Neighborhoods & 3 to Avoid). Don’t have time? Here’s my favorite hotel in NYC, hands down.
Helpful Tips for Visiting New York City’s Neighborhoods
- Comfortable walking shoes are non-negotiable. The most common (and effective) way to explore the city is on your own two feet, you’ll easily clock in 10,000+ steps a day while visiting. If helpful, here’s my personal guide on the best walking shoes for NYC by season (including the pair my podiatrist recommended).
- Treat the sidewalk like a highway. One of the biggest pet peeves locals have is seeing tourists abruptly stop in the middle of the sidewalk. Avoid dramatic eye rolls by stepping to the side when taking a photo or checking your phone. Also be mindful of your group size and avoid hogging the sidewalk.
- Use Google & Apple Maps to get around the city. No need for giant maps or brochures, your phone will get you around the best neighborhoods in Manhattan.
Interested in more tips? Check out 20 Useful Tips for Visiting New York City (Local’s Guide)
The Best Neighborhoods in Manhattan to Visit
(Table of Contents)
Greenwich Village (The West Village)
Greenwich Village is the most charming neighborhood in Manhattan and once you experience it for yourself, you’ll be hard-pressed to disagree. Sometimes referred to as the “West Village” or “The Village,” the area was a haven for writers, artists and bohemians, giving the neighborhood a relaxed vibe that has lasted generations.
The neighborhood is known for picturesque cobblestone streets that break away from the city’s typical grid pattern. Getting lost on the meandering streets is one of my favorite things to do in NYC, you never know what you’ll discover!
Between the quaint restaurants, endearing corner cafes and ivy-covered buildings, it feels like being on a movie set. Better still, this Manhattan neighborhood is home to the city’s best bars, jazz clubs and restaurants, making it a hit with locals.
Grab brunch at Buvette or cocktails at Dante and see why this one of the most expensive neighborhoods in NYC to buy a home.
Things to Do in Greenwich Village
- Check out the Friends building. Located at the corner of Bedford and Grove Streets, check out the exterior of the apartment used in the opening credits of the popular TV show Friends.
- Grab a drink at the Stonewall Inn. The famous Stonewall Uprising, which took place at the Stonewall Inn on June 28, 1969 shined a light on the fight for LGBTQ+ rights in America. Frustrated by unjust raids, the patrons at the Stonewall Inn decided to fight back and changed the course of history forever.
- Enjoy Washington Square Park. Best known for the grand marble arch that celebrates the centennial of George Washington’s inauguration, this one of the best parks in NYC for people-watching.
There’s so much more to enjoy in Greenwich Village, make sure to check out 22 Exciting Things to Do in New York City’s Charming Greenwich Village!
The Lower East Side
Few Manhattan neighborhoods balance the old and new as well as the Lower East Side where historic pre-war buildings neighbor modern all-glass apartments and century-old delis sit on the same block as the city’s trendiest restaurants and bars.
I’ve been here in every season. My favorite? Fall, when the light hits just right.
A melting pot of history and culture, the Lower East Side has an authentic feel few neighborhoods can compete with. Full of award-winning cocktail bars, music venues and popular clubs, this colorful neighborhood attracts night owls year-round.
From history buffs (check out the Tenement Museum) to foodies (try the mile-high pastrami sandwiches at Katz) and cocktail enthusiasts (Attaboy was the #1 Bar in North America), everyone can find something to love in this popular Manhattan neighborhood.
Further Reading.15 Exciting Things to Do in the Lower East Side
The feel here is reason enough to come back.
The East Village
It’s easy to confuse the East Village with the Lower East Side, but resist the urge. These two popular Manhattan neighborhoods are separated by Houston Street (pronounced “how-stun”) and while they have similar vibes, they’re unique enough to warrant separate visits.
Quirky and colorful, the East Village is one of my favorite neighborhoods in NYC for first time visitors. Full of artists, the area has a funky bohemian feel that extends to the awesome restaurants and small shops.
My advice? Wander down Saint Marks Place and pop into any shop or restaurant that piques your interest. This a great place to go if you’re looking for dive bars and international cuisine.
The East Village is also known for its vibrant nightlife, from laid-back pubs to lively clubs. In my opinion, this Manhattan neighborhood truly captures the eclectic spirit of New York, giving visitors a glimpse at the city’s less conventional side.
Further Reading. 15 Iconic East Village Activities (Local’s Bucket List)
Local tip. Between you and me, the seasonal menu is always better than the regular one. Ask what’s fresh today.
The Financial District
The seat of the country’s financial power, the Financial District is home to soaring skyscrapers and historic buildings. Between you and me, it isn’t very lively (hey, just being honest) because the area is mostly full of corporate office buildings. Locals seldom hang out in this area unless they’re showing folks around town.
Regardless, visiting is non-negotiable because the area is full of historic significance and shouldn’t be skipped. Make sure to swing by the 9/11 Memorial & Museum, admire the New York Stock Exchange and visit Trinity Church.
Trinity Church is where George Washington came to pray after his inauguration (which took place at Federal Hall). The church’s graveyard is the final resting place of Alexander Hamilton and his wife, Eliza.
Afterwards, head to Fraunces Tavern to have brews at the oldest restaurant in New York City. Dating back to 1762, this where George Washington bid an emotional farewell to his troops before assuming the office of President.
Read.20 Cool Things to Do in the Financial District.
If you’re reading this list of the best neighborhoods in NYC with the intention of finding a place to stay, I suggest NOT booking a hotel in the Financial District. Here’s why.
SoHo
SoHo (an abbreviation of South of Houston Street) is a one of the most fascinating neighborhoods in New York City to explore. Renowned for stunning cast-iron architecture, the buildings are a testament to the area’s storied past as a manufacturing district in the late 19th century.
Pro tip. most people rush through here. Take your time. It’s worth it.
The historic buildings, once industrious factories and spacious warehouses, have been repurposed into expensive lofts, art galleries, and upscale shops, making SoHo a prime example of urban revitalization.
In the 1960s and 1970s, artists began moving into the neighborhood and transformed the area into a vibrant arts scene with a bohemian feel. As you can imagine, it didn’t take long for them to get priced out.
Today, SoHo is a trendy Manhattan neighborhood few can afford to call home. Known for fashionable boutiques, high-end retail stores, and an array of restaurants and cafes, it’s one of the best neighborhoods in Manhattan to explore for visitors and locals alike.
You May Enjoy Reading. 30 Spree-Worthy Stores in SoHo (Happy Local’s Guide)
Chinatown
Manhattan’s Chinatown is home to the largest population of Chinese people in the Western Hemisphere (yep, it’s true). Serving as a refuge for Chinese immigrants since 1870, the bustling streets overflow with traditional and modern influences.
From tiny shops selling trinkets to authentic Chinese restaurants churning out hand-pulled noodles and delicious dim sum, there’s no denying that Chinatown is one of the best neighborhoods in Manhattan for foodies.
Local’s Tip.If you happen to find yourself in NYC during the Chinese Lunar New Year (January 29, 2025), make a beeline for Chinatown. The streets come alive with locals donning colorful traditional costumes while live music fills the air.
The festivities are wrapped with an epic Lunar New Year parade. Read. Best Things to Do in NYC in February.
You May Enjoy Reading.15 Exciting Things to Do in Chinatown (Local’s Guide)
The Upper East Side
Playing host to Museum Mile (a mile-long stretch of world-renowned museums), the Upper East Side is a haven for art lovers. The neighborhood is synonymous with luxury and opulence, boasting expensive apartment buildings and historic townhouses worth north of $50 million (imagine!).
The beautiful tree-lined streets and proximity to Central Park give the neighborhood an distinctive feel. Despite its reputation for sophistication, it’s a fun areas to explore (there’s something romantic about these streets).
Fine dining and exclusive designer boutiques, this posh Manhattan neighborhood offers a refined version of daily life in New York City. Here’s a quick roundup of the best things to do on the Upper East Side.
- Visit the Metropolitan Museum of Art (The MET)
- Pop into Albertine Books
- Get cocktails at Bemelmans Bar
- Burgers at JG Melon (my favorite burgers in NYC)
Further Reading. 15+ Great Things to Do on the Upper East Side
Tribeca
Tribeca, an abbreviation for Triangle Below Canal St, is one of the most expensive neighborhoods in Manhattan. Popular with celebrities (Taylor Swift lives in the area) and CEOs, the area is very upscale.
The area is full of large warehouses and commercial buildings have been converted into posh condos and lofts. This gives the neighborhood a unique industrial-chic feel that’s somewhat reminiscent of the SoHo neighborhood. But, Tribeca is much calmer than SoHo, which makes exploring the art galleries and restaurants a bit more enjoyable.
Tribeca’s blend of modern luxury, artistic flair, and historical roots make it one of the best neighborhoods to explore in Manhattan. It’s a great reflection of the diverse and ever-changing character of New York City.
You May Enjoy Reading our roundup of the best things to do in Tribeca.
Flatiron District
The Flatiron District an architecturally stunning neighborhood in Manhattan named after the famous Flatiron Building. It’s one of the smallest neighborhoods in New York City, but you can’t miss it during your first visit.
The triangular skyscraper takes center stage in an area full of trendy shops and restaurants. As a hub for design and tech firms, this area has an electric and innovative atmosphere. Pop into Eataly (an impressive Italian grocery store and food hall), for a quick bite before exploring the neighborhood.
Things to Do in the Flatiron District
- Admire the Flatiron Building. New York City’s most famous building, this famous landmark has been featured in tons of movies over the years (Spider-Man, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, Godzilla). Don’t miss an opportunity to snap a picture in front of it!
- Visit the birthplace of Theodore Roosevelt. The nation’s 26th President, Theodore Roosevelt was born in a townhouse located at 28th E. 20th Street. The building was demolished in 1916, but when Roosevelt died in 1919, a replica of the home was promptly rebuilt. Today tours are offered through the NPS on a first come first served basis.
Chelsea
Originally a center for industry, Chelsea has transformed over the years into one of the most desirable neighborhoods in Manhattan. Full of lively bars and top-notch clubs, Chelsea is the epicenter for nightlife in NYC.
The neighborhood is also renowned for its art scene, home more than 200 galleries (from small independent spaces to major art institutions), you won’t want to miss it if you’re an art buff. The biggest attractions are the High Line and the Chelsea Market, which is housed in the restored Nabisco factory (where the Oreo cookie was invented!).
Read— 20 Best Things to Do in Chelsea
Map of the Best Neighborhoods in Manhattan to Explore
Based on our extensive local experience, we cover the top picks for neighborhoods to explore in Manhattan in this guide. Each spot has been personally visited and reviewed.
Best Manhattan Neighborhoods to Visit (Post Summary)
- Greenwich Village
- Chelsea
- Financial District
- SoHo
- Flatiron District
- Tribeca
- Lower East Side
- Upper East Side
- Chinatown
- The East Village
And there you have it my friends – a quick roundup of the 10 best neighborhoods in Manhattan for first time visitors. I hope you enjoyed the post!
Cheers!
Final Thoughts
That wraps up our guide to The 10 Best Neighborhoods to Explore in Manhattan (First Time Visitors Guide). Have a favorite spot we missed? Whether you’re a local or just visiting, these Best Neighborhoods Manhattan options won’t disappoint.
Have you been here before?
If you liked this guide, you might also enjoy exploring my other local recommendations.
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