The Best Things To Do in Downtown Manhattan
The Ultimate Guide for Downtown Manhattan
Downtown Manhattan consists of several beautiful neighborhoods that should not be missing from your itinerary when visiting New York. Besides Soho, Little Italy and Tribeca, I really like the Lower East Side, which is still an insider tip.
What you must have done in downtown Manhattan, I show you here in my ultimate guide. You can also find the best bars and restaurants in Downtown Manhattan, which stretches from 14th Street to Chambers Street in the south.
By the way: you’ll find many more New York City spots in our Loving New York travel guides.
My TOP 5 Things To Do in Downtown Manhattan
- Shopping in Soho
- Spend the evening in the East Village
- Eat Pastrami at Katz’ Delicatessen in the Lower East Side
- Enjoy the sunset at Grand Banks in Tribeca
- Walk the High Line that starts/ends in the Meatpacking District
Where is Downtown Manhattan located?
Downtown Manhattan is the area above Lower Manhattan (Chambers Street, including the Financial District, Battery NYC und Battery Park City) and below Midtown Manhattan (14th Street).
How to Get to Downtown Manhattan
- Subway: There are multiple trains that you take to the neighborhood. You can take the to Prince Street. The and to Broadway/Lafayette, or the to Spring Street Station.
- Hop on Hop Off Bus: Stop 7 of the downtown loop of BIG BUS or stop 14 of the downtown loop of Gray Line Sightseeing. Here you find more about Hop on Hop off in NYC.
My tip: the tickets for the buses are included in many of the New York City passes – which one is the best for you, you can see in my Pass Comparison for New York! - By boat: Take the NYC Ferry, which arrives and departs from Stuyvesant Cove.
🥇 Look no further: That‘s the only New York Travel Guide you need (300+ pages and 700+ reviews on Amazon)
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The 23 Best Things To Do in Downtown Manhattan
Downtown Manhattan is filled with a bunch of activities and events. There’s always something going on here – and these are our favorites:
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01
Manhattan By Sail - Craft Beer Tasting Sail Aboard Clipper City Tall Ship
Cruise in Lower East Side
You like beer and sailing? Then this boat tour is just the right thing for you! Not only can you enjoy a great sailing trip with unbelievable views, but you can also test yourself through various beers. A fun evening is guaranteed with this boat trip!
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02
Soho, Little Italy & Chinatown Walking Tour
Walking Tour in Hudson SquareOur Highlight
Now known for their many excellent restaurants, shops and tourism, Manhattan’s SoHo, Little Italy and Chinatown neighborhoods offer the most varied stories of New York City. Take a 2-hour tour with a local guide and discover hidden gems and 19th century buildings.
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03
CloudM New York Bowery Rooftop Bar: enjoy stunning views
Rooftop Bar in Lower East SideOur Highlight
For me, the cloudM Rooftop Bar is one of the most beautiful rooftop bars not only in the Lower East Side, but in all of New York. It is located on the roof of the citizenM New York Bowery Hotel and offers everything that makes a good rooftop bar: a great view, beautiful design and relaxed atmosphere.
Recommended: The Best Rooftop Bars in NYC
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04
Basilica of St. Patrick’s Old Cathedral
Building in Nolita
The Basilica of St. Patrick’s Old Cathedral is the only basilica in New York and New York’s very first cathedral. You will be surprised how beautiful it is from the inside – and that it hides some secrets. The best way to find out what they are is to take a tour that takes you to different parts of the church, including the catacombs. It is one of the absolute insider tours in New York. You can learn more about it here.
Courtesy of the picture: Basilica of St. Patrick’s Old Cathedral
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05
Visit the Mahayana Temple in Chinatown
Other Attraction in Chinatown
This is the oldest Chinese temple on the east coast of the united states. It is a beautiful expression of Chinese culture and architecture and is open to the public year-round. On the weekends you will also find Buddhist services taking place here often completely in Mandarin. Bring a dollar for a fortune!
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06
Lombardi's Pizza: Eat Pizza in New York's first Pizzeria
Italian Restaurant in NolitaOur Highlight
Lombardi’s is a pizza restaurant in Nolita and prides itself in being the first pizzeria in the United States. Here you can eat really well and enjoy a welcoming Italian atmosphere. Also make sure to try the Meatballs!
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07
Mmuseumm
Museum in Tribeca
New York’s smallest museum and an absolute insider tip: Here a freight elevator was converted into a museum. The exhibits are treasures from all over the world that present their view of life. In short: Small miracles – more really doesn’t fit in the elevator. A view through the window is possible at any time of the day or night – but this museum is only open on Saturdays and Sundays from 12 to 6 pm.
Recommended: The Best Museums in NYC
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08
Take a photo from Manhattan Bridge
Other Attraction in Two Bridges
A very famous photo motif of Chinatown with the One World Trade Center in the background can be taken from the Manhattan Bridge. The view is unique – especially at sunrise!
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09
The Mysterious Bookshop
Book Store in Tribeca
58 Waren Street is home to probably the most unusual bookstore in Manhattan. The Mysterious Bookshop mainly sells crime books, thriller and horror stories. Most of the product their is about murders, blood and their investigations. It’s different, special and really worthwhile.
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10
Grand Banks
Sea Food Restaurant in TribecaOur Highlight
Water, a great view of Manhattan and a great atmosphere – the location is simply the best. You are sitting on a historic ship called F/V Sherman Zwicker on the Hudson River and can enjoy New York from the water when the weather is fine. The place also serves great drinks and seafood.
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11
Enjoy free art exhibitions at Little Island
Other Attraction in Meatpacking District
Not far from the Meatpacking District and the High Line, Little Island is one of the newest attractions in New York and is something very special: a park on 132 beautiful tulip-shaped concrete stilts in the Hudson River!
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12
Feel the New York of the 1920s in the Brandy Library
Bar in TribecaOur Highlight
Even if the name suggests otherwise: the Brandy Library has a huge selection of even very rare whiskeys in its program, which will make the heart of every whiskey fan beat faster. More than 1,000 bottles are used as decoration, especially in the evening it looks like a library of high-proof drinks. What we found very exciting are their events where you can learn more about Bourbons, Cognacs etc. Conclusion: Super-atmospheric and a real highlight!
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13
Visit the Museum of Ice Cream
Museum in SoHo
The Museum of Ice Cream in NYC is the first flagship store of the popular installation. It is anything but an ordinary museum. Here you can enjoy a Sprinkle Pool and other interactive ice installations.
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14
New York West Village Food Tour
Walking Tour in West Village
Go on one of the famous Food on Foot Tours. During the 3-hour tour, you will discover many great little restaurants and bakeries. A total of 6 of them are on your program on this walking tour, which is one of the most popular in the West Village. For foodies this tour is a must!
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15
Washington Square Park
Park in Greenwich Village
Washington Square Park, centrally located in the Village, extends over almost 4 hectares. Close to New York University with its distinctive Washington Square Arch, a triumphal arch inaugurated in 1895, the park is a popular place to be when the weather is fine. Through the Arch you have a wonderful view along 5th Avenue to the top of the Empire State Building.
If you are lucky, you can even enjoy a free jazz concert from the many jazz artists of the Village. Here, friends and family meet to relax, play chess, or just in general have a good time.
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16
NYC Lower East Side Food and Culture Small-Group Tour
Walking Tour in Civic CenterOur Highlight
This is a really unique walking tour in NYC that will introduce you to the wonderful Lower East Side. The Lower East Side Food and Culture Tour shows you the many lovely little delis, Jewish specialties, bakeries and everything that makes up the soul of the city.
You’ll visit places that are an important part of the community, having operated in the same spot for generations. You’ll get a glimpse of authentic life and become part of the real New York.
With nearly 500 positive reviews, it’s the most popular walking tour in New York of them all!
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17
High Line
Park in Meatpacking DistrictOur Highlight
There are few parks as unique as the High Line. The elevated freight rail line was repurposed as a public green space that opened in 2009 and now offers amazing views of the city, as well as a place to relax and unwind. Its plant life is based directly off what was growing there while it was abandoned, giving this park a unique and interesting atmosphere! The High Line stretches from The Meatpacking District all the way to Hudson Yards-34th Street.
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18
Whitney Museum
Museum in Meatpacking District
Newly opened in 2015, the Whitney Museum in New York shines in a whole new light. The Whitney Museum has one of the most spectacular collections of contemporary art that focuses on American art of the 20th and 21st centuries. Andy Warhol, Keith Haring, Edward Hopper, Jackson Pollock, and Robert Rauschenberg are just a few of the names whose paintings, drawings, sculptures, photographs, and installations are part of the exhibits at the Whitney Museum. More than 21,000 works of art are permanently showcased here. The museum is located in The Meatpacking District in Manhattan.
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19
Sex and the City Tour by Bus
Bus Tour in Midtown ManhattanOur Highlight
The Sex and the City bus tour through Manhattan is the ultimate experience for fans of the show. For many, it has always been a dream to dream to see all the spots featured in the show. Follow Carrie (played by Sarah Jessica Parker) through New York City and see where Sex and the City was filmed. This is also an interesting tour for those who are generally interested in the areas around West Village and SoHo.
Inside the bus, you get to watch scenes of Sex and the City and the very friendly guide (who is of course also a huge fan) makes it a fun and interactive experience. You will also leave the bus when you walk to see the main spots of the tour.
What to expect
The big highlight of the tour is stopping by in front of Carrie’s house. You will get many flashbacks of the show when you are standing in front of the famous stairs. You will also get to visit the Magnolia Bakery and taste the sweet & delicious cupcakes the girls ate so many times before. You will also get the chance to drink a cosmopolitan at Scout’s- Carries favorite pub. Take a walk in West Village and get to know some interesting facts about the show and its actors. If you’re very lucky you might also catch a glimpse of Jessica Parker herself as she lives her everyday life in NYC.
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20
Chinatown and Little Italy Food Fest
Walking Tour in ChinatownOur Highlight
Explore the flavors and traditions of New York’s Chinatown and Little Italy during this exciting food tour. You’ll leave with a full stomach and lots of interesting information about the history and culture of these two neighborhoods.
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21
Shopping in Soho
Other Shopping in SoHo -
22
Take photos of the Audrey Hepburn-Graffiti
Other Attraction in Little Italy
Each neighborhood has their own vibe and culture. New York City has some of the best street art and Little Italy is known for their great hidden graffiti. One of the most well-known of the city is located at 176 Mulberry St which features a mural of the the icon, Audrey Hepburn. Many more great spots can be photographed and admired there.
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23
Stroll through SoHo
Other Attraction in SoHo
If you’re big into photography, then make sure to bring your camera to this neighborhood. SoHo fashion is some of the best fashion in the country and the art scene is top-notch as well. If photographing people isn’t your thing, then you also have the option of shooting the cast-iron buildings.
During the industrial revolution, cast-iron architecture was very popular as everyone was convinced that iron was much more substantial and fireproofed than steel. At the time, cast-iron fronts were built more often than normal wooden houses. These typical cast-iron buildings are the reason why so many producers decided to shoot their films or commercials on the streets of SoHo.
The fire escape staircases along with the architecture give the neighborhood its unique look. These beautiful buildings belong to SoHo similar to how yellow cabs belong to NYC.
Best Attractions in Downtown Manhattan
Interestingly, there aren’t that many famous New York attractions in Downtown Manhattan – these are rather in the adjacent Lower Manhattan in the south and Midtown in the north.
Nevertheless, there are a few small highlights that are worth a visit:
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01 Alexander and Bonin
Alexander and Bonin Gallery was formed in 1995 by Ted Bonin and Carolyn Alexander. The primary focus of the collaboration was to support and represent the work of mid-career, established, and emerging contemporary international visionaries. Since its opening, the Alexander and Bonin Gallery has established a reputation for maintaining a diverse and rigorous program.
The gallery was located in Chelsea on 10th Avenue from 1997 until 2016, when it moved to Walker Street in Tribeca, but is currently located in Soho on Wooster Street. Though the final move was not a significant move geographically, it allowed the partners to accurately represent 22 artists specializing in many types of contemporary art. You’ll find everything from contemporary sculptures and paintings to videos in this gallery.
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02 Alexandre Gallery
Alexandre Gallery has two locations. The 25 E 73rd Street location has been around for 20 years, and will stay open for private viewings, and American Modernists from the Stieglitz Circle. It will be appointment only. The late 19th early 20th century is a special focus for Alexandre Gallery. Famous artists such as John Marin, Georgia O’Keeffe, and Joseph Stella have paintings on display at the 73rd Street location.
Alexandre Gallery opened its new location at 291 Grand Street in the Lower East Side of Manhattan on September 9, 2021 with Lois Dodd doing a one-person exhibition. The gallery has 2,000 square feet, and was previously used by James Cohan.
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03 Anthology Film Archives
If you’re a movie fanatic and you use quotes that come from movies then pay a visit to Anthology Film Archives in the East Village. The place has independent movies that you can’t really find anywhere else.
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04 Arcadia Contemporary
Arcadia Contemporary Gallery was founded in 2001 and had its first location in Soho New York. It has had its current name since 2014, originally it was called Arcadia Fine Arts. After moving to Pasadena/California from 2016 to 2021, it has been back in Soho since 2021. This time in the Soho Art District on West Broadway.
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05 Astor Place
South of East 8th Street is Astor Place – the site of the Cooper Union – where many art schools, architecture offices and schools can be found today.
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06 Audrey Hepburn-Graffiti
Each neighborhood has their own vibe and culture. New York City has some of the best street art and Little Italy is known for their great hidden graffiti. One of the most well-known of the city is located at 176 Mulberry St which features a mural of the the icon, Audrey Hepburn. Many more great spots can be photographed and admired there.
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07 Basilica of St. Patrick’s Old Cathedral
The Basilica of St. Patrick’s Old Cathedral is the only basilica in New York and New York’s very first cathedral. You will be surprised how beautiful it is from the inside – and that it hides some secrets. The best way to find out what they are is to take a tour that takes you to different parts of the church, including the catacombs. It is one of the absolute insider tours in New York. You can learn more about it here.
Courtesy of the picture: Basilica of St. Patrick’s Old Cathedral
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08 bitforms gallery
The bitforms gallery is a contemporary art gallery that features mid-career artists utilizing the latest technologies in New York City. The Bitforms gallery was founded in 2001 with the idea that A world-renowned contemporary visual art gallery, bitforms is home to established artists and those on the rise.
bitforms is a cutting edge gallery that represents established and emerging artists with new technologies in their work. It’s no surprise that technology is recognized an important niche in the market at large. Nowadays we are used seeing images projected onto tablets during live performances but not that long ago this was unheard of.
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09 Bleecker Street
Bleecker Street is a pleasant change from the turbulent Herald Square or 5th Avenue. It is considered one of the best shopping streets in the world. Why? There are many small and hip designer stores, record stores and second hand stores and lesser known retail brands.
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10 Bowery Ballroom
The nightlife of the Lower East Side is considered one of the best in the city. And one of the most popular locations for live music is the Bowery Ballroom (address: 6 Delancey St). The former ballroom offers many concerts worth seeing every week. Bruno Mars played here many years ago, when not the whole world knew him.
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11 Broadway
Broadway is probably the most famous street in New York City and SoHo’s main shopping street. It is not only the longest shopping street, but also a commercial heart of the city.
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12 Brooke Alexander Gallery
The Brooke Alexander Gallery was founded in Soho in 1968 by Carolyn and Brooke Alexander in an East 68th Street storefront. Though it’s now located on Wooster Street, it still proudly serves as a member of The Art Dealers Association of America today.
This art gallery began publishing prints and multiples for artists in 1968 and since then has published over 1,500 works. The Alexanders relocated the gallery a couple of times throughout the years, having moved from 68th Street to 57th Street in 1975, and then from 57th to Wooster Street in 1985.
At some point in the early ‘90s, Brooke Alexander and his wife split up, and he became the sole director/owner of the gallery. His wife, Carolyn Alexander, went on to join the gallery’s former director, Ted Bonin, to create the Alexander and Bonin Gallery in 1995. Yet still, the Brooke Alexander Gallery has become known for its influence on New York’s late-20th century art scene. In fact, these efforts were recognized in 1995 as the gallery was honored at the Smithsonian Institution.
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13 CANADA
One of the pioneers of the Chinatown gallery scene, CANADA opened in 2000 and has been a major institution, not a typical gallery, ever since.
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14 Cast iron architecture
If you’re big into photography, then make sure to bring your camera to this neighborhood. SoHo fashion is some of the best fashion in the country and the art scene is top-notch as well. If photographing people isn’t your thing, then you also have the option of shooting the cast-iron buildings.
During the industrial revolution, cast-iron architecture was very popular as everyone was convinced that iron was much more substantial and fireproofed than steel. At the time, cast-iron fronts were built more often than normal wooden houses. These typical cast-iron buildings are the reason why so many producers decided to shoot their films or commercials on the streets of SoHo.
The fire escape staircases along with the architecture give the neighborhood its unique look. These beautiful buildings belong to SoHo similar to how yellow cabs belong to NYC.
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New York, New York, USA at City Hall Park Fountain.15 City Hall Park
The City Hall Park in Manhattan New York is one of those parks that you don’t immediately notice. The names of the other parks are too big. But there is a lot to see and to discover in its area. As the name suggests, it is located at the foot of the New York City Hall. It is the oldest of its kind in the USA (already over 200 years old) and is the seat of government of the mayor of NYC.
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16 Columbus Park
Columbus Park is the biggest park in Chinatown and is a great place to have a seat and watch life unfold around you. You will see that many of the locals meet here to do everything from play chess and exercise to just sitting down reading a book. It is a well known social hangout in the city and is a great place to sit down and have some of the street food you picked up in the nearby streets.
In the morning you will see people doing Tai Chi to fuel up for the day. In the afternoon there are mainly fortunetellers and people who play cards. During the warmer months, Columbus Park becomes a popular place to escape the tumultuous Chinatown.
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17 Comedy Cellar
The Comedy Cellar is a Manhattan comedy club where many of New York’s top comedians perform. It was founded in 1982 by the then stand-up comedian and the current TV writer and producer, Bill Grundfest. A show consists of five to seven comics, each lasting about 20 minutes. The club isn’t just exclusive to two New Yorkers. Notable comedians have also performed here such as Chris Rock, Dave Chapelle, Kevin Hart and Aziz Ansari.
On the weekends, it can get pretty busy. A visit to the Comedy Cellar is an insider tip for anyone who wants to feel like a true New Yorker and is one of the best things to do in Greenwich Village.
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18 Derek Eller Gallery
Like many of the famous art galleries, the Derek Eller Gallery relocated from Chelsea to the Lower East Side. It has been around since 1997 and focuses on contemporary artists.
Many of the artists are well established, but do not have the visibility that they need, and several artists are just emerging. This combination makes the Derek Eller Gallery stick out. They showcase their artists works through art fairs, as well as exhibitions.
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19 Destination Cosmos: The Immersive Experience
Destination Cosmos: The Immersive Experience is a digital exhibition that takes its guests on an exciting journey into the universe. On this unique exploration, you can marvel at planets and supernovae and you will be whisked away into a maze of stars. This digital journey into space will show you the canyons of Mars and the rings of Saturn, allowing you to experience the vastness of the universe in a whole new way.
The Immersive Experience exhibition will run until June 4, 2023 at the Hall des Lumières.
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Budget Tip
Many of the attractions and tours in NYC are included in one of the New York City passes. So you can easily and quickly save up to 70% – how does it work?
You can see that in my ultimate 👉 New York Pass comparison, here you can see my personal 👉 New York Pass Reviews after more than 20 visits to New York and our free New York Pass Advisor answers the question: “Which New York Pass is the best?”
Best Guided Tours in Downtown Manhattan
NYC is filled with many tours and a lot of them pass through Downtown Manhattan. Whether it’s a movie-walk or just a general sightseeing tour, this part of NYC will most likely be involved. The neighborhood is known for its stores, fashion and a lot (!) of restaurants and bars.
Below are some of our favorite Downtown Manhattan tours:
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01 A Slice of Brooklyn Pizza Tour
The A Slice of Brooklyn Pizza Tour is a combination of sightseeing tour, bus and walking tour. It starts not far from Union Square Park in Manhattan: with your New York guide you drive to Brooklyn to get to know one of the most important neighborhoods like Sunset Park, DUMBO, Bay Ridge and also Coney Island.
On this sightseeing tour you will learn where movies like Goodfellas, Once Upon in America or Annie Hall were filmed and you will stop at two of the best pizzerias in Brooklyn. Because pizza and New York simply belong together!
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02 Brooklyn Bridge & DUMBO Walking Tour
Walk across the Brooklyn Bridge and learn about the exciting and dramatic history of this world-famous New York City neighborhood, all while enjoying breathtaking views of the Manhattan skyline. On the other side of the Brooklyn Bridge you will discover DUMBO, a newly popular and up and coming part of Brooklyn.
Meeting point is 52 Chambers Street in front of the Tweed Courthouse.
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03 Chinatown and Little Italy Food Fest
Explore the flavors and traditions of New York’s Chinatown and Little Italy during this exciting food tour. You’ll leave with a full stomach and lots of interesting information about the history and culture of these two neighborhoods.
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04 NYC Lower East Side Food and Culture Small-Group Tour
This is a really unique walking tour in NYC that will introduce you to the wonderful Lower East Side. The Lower East Side Food and Culture Tour shows you the many lovely little delis, Jewish specialties, bakeries and everything that makes up the soul of the city.
You’ll visit places that are an important part of the community, having operated in the same spot for generations. You’ll get a glimpse of authentic life and become part of the real New York.
With nearly 500 positive reviews, it’s the most popular walking tour in New York of them all!
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05 NYC Lower East Side Walking and Food Tour
The Lower East Side is still an absolute insider tip among the neighborhoods of New York City and a part of Lower Manhattan that I love to visit. There are countless authentic bars and delis, some of which have been family-owned for more than 100 years and are thus an important part of the community.
The NYC Lower East Side Walking and Food Tour deals exactly with these small spots and stores and is therefore a TOP Thing to do for foodies!
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06 Soho, Little Italy & Chinatown Walking Tour
Now known for their many excellent restaurants, shops and tourism, Manhattan’s SoHo, Little Italy and Chinatown neighborhoods offer the most varied stories of New York City. Take a 2-hour tour with a local guide and discover hidden gems and 19th century buildings.
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07 2-Hour Cupcake Tour of Greenwich Village
If you’re into sweets and desserts you should try the famous Cupcake Tour. Sample colorful cupcakes at boutique bake shops, and build your own custom cupcake during this 2-hour tour in Greenwich Village. New York clearly has the best cupcakes and this will be the chance to try the best of them.
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08 East Village Haunted Manhattan Walking Tour
On this haunted walking tour you’ll explore one of the oldest neighborhoods in Manhattan: the East Village (and Alphabet City). And at night! There are 13 haunted locations on the list – from historic pubs to the Public Theater to a subway stop known for its “ghost train”.
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09 Friends of the High Line Walking Tours
The High Line Park takes you along the old tracks of the elevated railway to the Meatpacking District. Thanks to the initiative “Friends of the High Line” the park exists at all, because originally the construction was supposed to be torn down. And the best thing? They offer free tours!
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10 Ghost Tour of Greenwich Village NYC
Greenwich Village is for me one of the most beautiful neighborhoods of New York and has a lot to offer. But it also has a haunted side in stories, which will be shown to you on this walking tour. This ghost tour through Greenwich Village is full of spooky tales of lost children, phantoms and celebrity ghosts – and not only at Halloween a popular tour.
Along the way, you’ll learn many interesting anecdotes as you stroll through Washington Square Park, West 10th Street and the campus of New York University. The Greenwich Village Ghost Tour is a real highlight!
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11 Ghosts of Greenwich Village: 2-Hour Private Walking Tour
Do you like stories about ghosts? Then this private haunted tour of Greenwich Village in the evening is a great option! In two hours, you’ll hear lots of haunted stories about people who have suddenly disappeared or are haunted around Washington Square Park and New York University. And of course: also a lot about this beautiful neighborhood of NYC!
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12 Greenwich Village Pizza Walk
Pizza and New York simply belong together! Next to the famous Brooklyn Pizza Walking Tour, this tour through Greenwich Village and Little Italy is one of the most popular food tours in NYC. Included in the price are 3 slices of pizza from different stores and during the tour you will also learn a lot about these neighborhoods from a New York guide.
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13 Greenwich Village Walking Tour
Greenwich Village has a reputation as a magnet for Bohemians and intellectuals. Generations of artists and writers have given the neighborhood its free-spirited identity. From Bleecker St. to MacDougal St. and Sheridan Square, this tour will show you some of the best sights in Greenwich Village and tell you the story behind them.
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14 Manhattan Neighborhood Private Customized Walking Tour
You already have an idea of which neighborhoods and sights of New York you want to see? Then this walking tour is perfect for you, because you can create your individual route with your New York guide.
Each of the many neighborhoods has its own charm and character, which is what makes New York so charming and interesting. Therefore, the right mix can show you the best picture of the city. Combine Times Square and Broadway with Greenwich Village and Soho, or schedule Greenwich Village or Chelsea with the High Line. The beauty of this private tour is that you set the schedule. If you particularly like a place, you can just stay longer!
With over 350 positive reviews, this private walking tour of NYC is one of the best!
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15 New York Catacombs by Candlelight
You will be surprised how beautiful Basilica of St. Patrick’s Old Cathedral in Nolita is from the inside – and that it hides some secrets. The best way to find out what they are is to take a tour that takes you to different parts of the church, including the catacombs. It is one of the absolute insider tours in New York.
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16 New York West Village Food Tour
Go on one of the famous Food on Foot Tours. During the 3-hour tour, you will discover many great little restaurants and bakeries. A total of 6 of them are on your program on this walking tour, which is one of the most popular in the West Village. For foodies this tour is a must!
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17 Pride Walking Tour
Learn about the most significant historical event in the LGBTQ movement, the Stonewall Uprising in 1969 in NYC. Visit famous LGBTQ sites, like the Stonewall Inn, on a 1 hour and 15-minute walking tour beginning at Christopher Park.
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18 Sidewalks and Skyscrapers: Street Art Is This Way
This walking tour shows that there is also street art and graffiti worth seeing in Manhattan. You start your exploration in Soho, and then in two hours learn the stories behind the large and small works of art. Some of the graffiti is an impressive 20 meters high, so always have your cameras ready!
If guided tours interest you, be sure to check out the Best Walking Tours NYC!
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Best Restaurants in Downtown Manhattan
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01 Balthazar
The stylish restaurant serves traditional French cuisine. Outside the menu you can also choose from the seafood bar and the delicacies from the Balthazar Bakery. The breakfast is legendary and the home-baked bread is especially convincing. By the way, you can get a lot more of it in the adjacent bakery.
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02 Blue Ribbon Sushi Izakaya
Blue Ribbon Sushi Izakaya is a Japanese-style tavern and a traditional sushi bar with a fine dining experience. This spot is all about bonding together at a fun place to drink with delicious food selections. From small plate options to family-style platters, Blue Ribbon has got you covered. The location of this Lower East Side restaurant is also beautiful and convenient if you want to jump right into the East Village.
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03 Boqueria
One of our highlights is the Boqueria in SoHo. We have walked past it 100 times and have not noticed it at all. Then it was recommended to us during a conversation and what can we say: it is really really good! We had to wait almost 30 minutes until we had two of the coveted seats. Both Tino and I would describe ourselves as Spain connoisseurs, so we were all the more surprised at HOW good the tapas were here. Took us right back to our summer vacations!
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04 Carroll Place
Carroll Place on Bleecker Street has an exciting concept, as it’s both a gastropub and wine bar where you can enjoy Italian-inspired food. It’s one of our favorite spots when we go for brunch in New York. The atmosphere is relaxed, the vibe is always good and the food is delicious!
Our favorites have been the pizza with truffles and the Pasta Vongole. The fact that the pizza oven is wood fired gives the pizzas a taste like a pizza should have! By the way, next time try the Carroll Place Burger with Gorgonzola. This one looked mega delicious too!
My tip: if you want to go for brunch, be sure to reserve a table in advance!
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05 5 Guys Burger and Fries
Just like Shake Shack, the 5 Guys Burger and Fries have become a burger chain that is very popular. Again, the good ingredients are the basis of everything – if you’re looking for a 5 Guys in New York, there are several of them!
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06 American Cut
The restaurant is very modern and here you can get very tasty steaks.
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07 Angelica Kitchen
Fresh, vegan food has been served here since 1976. Many of the ingredients are organically grown and Fairtrade certified.
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08 Antique Garage
As the name suggests, the location used to be an old screwdriver garage, which was brought to life in 2003. The furnishing with antique paintings and lamps creates a relaxed, cosy atmosphere. And then the food: the starters alone are already a blast. Try “Mezze” – these are Mediterranean little treats.
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09 Avant Garden
In the cozy restaurant in the East Village, the food is served in a very stylish way. The quality is excellent and it tastes fantastic.
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10 Bar Primi
The Bar Primi is a small pasta shop that offers brunch, lunch and dinner with great Italian wines. Of course the typical Italian desserts are not missing. Everything is handmade – from the pasta to the sauce – and the authentic interior makes you feel as if you have made a little detour to Italy.
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11 Beatnic West Village
Ok, the name can be a bit misleading, because the Beatnic West Village is actually located in Greenwich Village (the discussion about the neighborhoods and their exact boundaries is typical for New York 🙂 ). Anyway, Beatnic is a really popular vegan restaurant right on Bleecker Street.
It’s super-stylish, beautifully decorated and so delicious! And I say that, who likes everything around steaks, burgers and BBQ so much. Everything is freshly prepared, there are a wide variety of salads, sandwiches and burgers – all vegan, of course.
Really colorful is the beet ketchup and the avocado pesto. My tip: try the guac burger and the magic mushroom salad. That alone is worth a visit!
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12 Beetle House NYC
Created to honor and celebrate the horror culture, Beetle House NYC is a year-round Halloween-themed party. With pieces and props inspired by the works of Tim Burton, Alfred Hitchcock, Bram Stoker, Washington Irving, Edgar Allen Poe and others, Beetle House is a must-see as one of the main Halloween theme restaurants in NYC.
If you’re just stopping by for drinks, there’s no need for reservations – just slide up to the bar and order your Coco Skellington or your The Beetle’s Juice. If you are stopping by for the $55 prix-fixe dinner, which includes main courses like Edward Burger Hands and Sweeney Beef, it’s best to call in advance to reserve your spot.
Take a look at the incredible decorations and make your reservation at Beetle House’s official website.
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13 BigA Bite
As the name suggests, there are big pizzas here. They can be up to 8 feet long – so BigA Bite is a great experience especially for groups (or for families with big appetites). The pizza dough is very fluffy, tasty and you have a great choice of toppings. Be sure to try the Pizziri to start beforehand. Or the Spicy Burrata!
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14 Black Seed Bagels
Black Seed Bagels offers delicious homemade bagels and homemade cream cheese options at a low price. You can also get fresh sandwiches, classic or fancy, with all the ingredients of your choice. Delicious classics are definitely the Smoked Salmon and Cream Cheese, Smoked Turkey or Tuna Melt. Black Seed Bagels is a great shop with a lot of character and good food for New York’s smart spenders.
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15 Black Tap NYC
Black Tap NYC is known for its delicious milkshakes & burgers and really worth a visit!
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16 Bobwhite Lunch and Supper Counter
Bobwhite counters are known for their fried chicken, which is particularly juicy on the inside and crispy on the outside. The Coleslaw is sensational and the chicken is served with a homemade spicy BBQ sauce and honey. The menu is small and manageable, but if you’re hungry for good Southern fried chicken, there’s no way around it.
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17 BoCaphe
The BoCaphe is one of our favourite spots if we want to enjoy “Vietnamese French Cuisine” in a relaxed atmosphere.
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18 BONDST
BONDST is a very exceptional Japanese restaurant that is one of the best in all of New York City. Here, fine dining meets high-class and creative sushi creations – all in a very relaxed atmosphere.
Located on three floors, BONDST is housed in a typical Soho-style building (Soho borders NoHo). A stylish lounge with its own sushi bar is located on the lower level. The Main Room is located on the first and second floor.
If you want to eat really good and authentic sushi in New York, there is hardly any way around BONDST. It’s definitely not cheap, but worth every penny.
By the way, the name is the only uncreative thing about BONDST in my opinion. Where does it come from? The Japanese restaurant has the address “6 Bond Street”.
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19 Boucherie
Around NYC, you’ll find four Boucherie sister restaurants, all of which will offer a special menu for Thanksgiving dinner. The dinner will consist of a roasted turkey smothered with truffle ballotine, brussels sprouts, sweet potato au gratin, cranberry compote, chanterelles, and turkey for $48 per person. This year’s famed dessert is priced at $15 for a slice of cheesecake topped with spiced caramel and pecans.
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20 Bubby’s Tribeca
Bubby’s is a typical New York combination of restaurant and bar with really good food and local beers. The spot is also great for brunch, you can either sit in the large indoor area or outside.
Looking for more recommendations? We’ve got you covered! Here you find the Best Restaurants in Manhattan.
Best Bars in Downtown Manhattan
And these are my personal recommendations when it comes to bars in Alphabet City – you will love it!
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01 Brandy Library
Even if the name suggests otherwise: the Brandy Library has a huge selection of even very rare whiskeys in its program, which will make the heart of every whiskey fan beat faster. More than 1,000 bottles are used as decoration, especially in the evening it looks like a library of high-proof drinks. What we found very exciting are their events where you can learn more about Bourbons, Cognacs etc. Conclusion: Super-atmospheric and a real highlight!
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02 142 Sullivan Bar
142 Sullivan Bar is a very popular little bar, especially with New Yorkers, in the Soho neighborhood, just two blocks from Bleecker Street and one block from W Houston Street.
We love this place because of the welcoming atmosphere, and: the cocktails and the wines are really good.
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03 169 Bar
The bar is very popular with New Yorkers, the prices are sensational and the audience is mixed. Colourful is also the bar and for this reason alone worth a visit.
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04 55 Bar
The 55 Bar is a Prohibition-era dive bar that offers nightly funk, blues, and jazz performances in Greenwich Village. Essentially considered the gem of Greenwich, it’s been in business for over 100 years, but don’t let their tagline fool you – it’s not a place for swing or retro jazz. In fact, in recent years, this homey downstairs club has hosted some of the top innovative names from modern jazz.
The 55 Bar charges a modest cover, but they book major talents, so the experience is well worth the cost. Some patrons even claim that this bar is among the best jazz venues in all of New York City. It’s been a longtime home for acts like Wayne Krantz, Mike Stern, and Sweet Georgia Brown. They offer live music every night of the year, and you can expect to hear something ranging from the blues or jazz to avant-garde varieties.
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05 Amelie Wine Bar
When Paris meets New York, such wonderful places like the Amelie wine bar in Washington Square Park are born. Fantastic wines and little treats are available here at affordable prices. Definitely one of our favorites in the city.
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06 Amity Hall
Especially when the Carolina Panthers play, the atmosphere in Amity Hall is boiling! The bar is huge and the game is broadcast here on a 6 meter flatscreen and many other screens. Besides the classic Chicken Wings you can also get great burgers here.
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07 Amor y Amargo
The Amor y Amargo is one of the bars we really love! From the outside it is totally inconspicuous, but when you go inside you will immediately feel the charm of the bar. Such spots are what makes New York for me (similar spots are the Proletariat and Fools Gold NYC in the Lower East Side for me). It is small, cozy and absolutely relaxed – just great!
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08 Analogue
In the bar in the heart of Greenwich Village you can enjoy your drinks in a relaxed atmosphere. Live music is also played here from time to time.
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09 Apotheke
If you know, you know. Apotheke in Chinatown is one of those speakeasy types of bars that are still super trendy to go to. It still maintains the classic look and almost speakeasy vibe from back in the days.
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10 Arts and Crafts Beer Parlor
Der Arts and Crafts Beer Parlor ist eine der besten Craft Beer Bars von New York. Die Auswahl an lokal produzierten Bieren ist groß, die Bartender immer nett und die Atmosphäre sehr entspannt. Zusätzlich zu der Bar in Greenwich Village haben sie auch ein Location direkt gegenüber der Columbia University in Harlem.
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11 B. On Top
B. On Top is a small rooftop bar in the Meatpacking District, where you can end the day in a very relaxed way.
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12 Barcade
Nostalgic for arcade games and want to relive your childhood? Then head on over to Barcade. There are multiple locations in NYC, such as Williamsburg and the East Village. Barcade has the classic arcade games that you’re accustomed to such as Pac-man, Donkey Kong and Tetris. The only difference between your childhood and now is that if you wanted to (and we don’t encourage this), you can play drunk. Yes, they serve beer. Arcades and beer is an amazing time.
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13 Blu 33 Rooftop
The Blu 33 Rooftop on top of the Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott New York hotel is one of the few rooftop bars in the West Village. It’s just one block from Macy’s and two blocks from Hudson Yards, and the view from here is really special!
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14 Blue Haven
Blue Haven is a large space situated right on Houston Street. So, when you’re looking for a convenient location to catch the game, this is your spot! Most people love Blue Haven because it blurs the lines between a draught beer pub and an upscale NYC sports bar.
This bar offers modern gastropub food and a large selection of bottled craft and draught beers. It’s a great place to catch any game, as Blue Haven has TVs everywhere. In fact, they even have one that’s seven feet across! So, make your plans and get here early to secure a seat next to the biggest TV in the house.
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15 Bowery Beer Garden
If you’re close to Chinatown, be sure to check out the Bowery Beer Garden. This open-air space is located at 93 Bowery and is more pandemic-friendly than other venues. Offering over 50 big-screen televisions and 40 different brews of beer, Bowery is NYC’s most extensive sports beer garden, so watching March Madness at this spot is a no-brainer! If you get hungry, be sure to opt for house specialties such as loaded garlic shrimp fries or beer garden wings.
Looking for more recommendations? We’ve got you covered! Here you find the Best Bars in Manhattan.
Best Hotels in Downtown Manhattan
Staying in Downtown Manhattan has many advantages. You’ll always be surrounded by some of the best atmosphere, bars, restaurants, cafes, and shops in NYC – but it is not as busy as Midtown Manhattan. If you decide to stay in the neighborhood please check out these amazing hotels.
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01 citizenM New York Bowery
4 Stars | The citizenM New York Bowery is my favorite hotel in this area, because it combines a lot of things I like: stylish, bright rooms, a sensational bar and even a rooftop bar with a fantastic view.
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02 Moxy NYC East Village
4 Stars | Such a stylish hotel! The Moxy NYC in the East Village is the sister hotel of the Moxy Chelsea NYC and is a boutique hotel at its best. The interior is a blast, the people super nice and the location top-notch. Can highly recommend!
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03 PUBLIC Hotel
4 stars | PUBLIC Hotel is one of the newest and, in my opinion, most beautiful hotels in New York. It is located in the Lower East Side neighborhood, right on the corner of Nolita and the East Village, and thus has many trendy bars and restaurants to offer.
The ambience in the PUBLIC Hotel is really nice: harmonious colors, stylish interior and many plants create a very relaxed atmosphere. The hotel’s restaurant and bar are amazing and you can end the evening in the rooftop bar.
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04 Arlo Soho
4 Stars | The Arlo is a really cool hotel in right on the border of Soho, Hudson Square and Tribeca: it’s in a great area, the interior is stylish and the bar is amazing. What’s not to like?
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05 Crosby Street Hotel
5 stars | In my opinion, the design hotel “Crosby Street Hotel” is one of the most beautiful hotels in all of New York. Like “The Mercer”, it is located in trendy and exclusive SoHo in the direct vicinity of the Museum of Modern Art Design (MOMA). The area is perfect for going out, shopping and eating!
The 86 rooms and suites are super-stylish. The rooms are large, high, open and bright. The interior – for which Kit Kemp is responsible – offers a wonderful contrast to the loft-like windows, which are huge and reach down to the floor. Everything looks modern, but not without warmth. An absolute design highlight! The Crosby Bar & Terrace offers high standard food at any time of day – the cocktails in particular have a very good reputation.
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06 East Village Hotel
3 Stars | The spacious studios at the East Village Hotel are equipped with a kitchenette, dishwasher and cooker. So it’s great if you are on a budget and don’t want to constantly eat out. Astor Place underground station is a ten-minute walk from the hotel.
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07 Gansevoort Hotel Meatpacking District
5 Stars | The owners of the Gansevoort hotels place great emphasis on design, which you will immediately notice. Its location in the Meatpacking District puts you right in the middle of everything: the High Line, great restaurants and bars are in the immediate vicinity (the Meatpacking District is one of my favorite parts of the city). It also has a large pool from where you can look out over the rooftops of the city. It feels so luxurious!
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08 Hotel 50 Bowery
4 Stars | Hotel 50 in Chinatown New York is a stylish boutique hotel with a cool roof terrace and very stylish rooms. You’ll be right in the middle of the action and within easy walking distance of great spots like the Lower East Side, East Village and Soho.
Despite its location, it is one of the affordable hotels with a view. And the view is really stunning: you can see all of Midtown Manhattan with its incredible skyline. The Empire State Building, Summit One Vanderbilt, Hudson Yards and the Chrysler Building are literally at your feet!
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09 Hotel Hugo
4 Stars | The Hotel Hugo in SoHo was designed by architect Marcello Pozzi and is a successful blend of industrial design and art. The perfect location in the trendy SoHo district is just as brilliant as the excellent service and the wonderful rooms.
The rooftop lounge on the top floor is a real highlight! The rooms are loft-style and if you’re hungry, the Italian restaurant at Hotel Hugo should be your first choice!
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10 Hotel Indigo Lower East Side New York
4 Stars | The Hotel Indigo Lower East Side New York is one of my personal hotel tips for you. You are in one of the hottest neighborhoods of NYC, the hotel has large rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows even for New York standards and besides a stylish bar and a really good restaurant even a rooftop pool to offer!
Its location in the Lower East Side is ideal if you want to reach Chinatown, the East Village or the Financial District on foot. The neighborhood is also the new hotspot for art fans: there are many small and large art galleries to discover.
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11 Hotel On Rivington
4 stars | The Hotel On Rivington is seen by many to be one of the best hotels in NYC with a view, because of its floor to ceiling windows that take advantage of its proximity to the NYC skyline. You can take in the beautiful surroundings from almost any room in the hotel!
Staying at this hotel also puts you squarely in the Lower East Side of NYC, which allows you to take advantage of all it has to offer. Ranging from its unique food scene to fantastic nightlife.
And back at the hotel, each room is spacious and comfortable. Overall, this is a great place to stay if you’re in that area of NYC!
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12 Incentra Village Hotel
3 Stars | The Village House with its Victorian style also impresses with its location. The High Line Park is only a few minutes’ walk away. There is a small kitchen in each of the rooms.
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13 Mimosa Hotel Chinatown
3 stars | The Mimosa is one of the most authentic and best value for money accommodations in New York’s Chinatown. Its location in the heart of this popular neighborhood makes it especially popular with Asian travelers. The rooms are always very clean and the service is excellent.
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14 ModernHaus SoHo
5 stars | The ModernHaus (formerly known as the James Hotel) is located in SoHo and only a few blocks from another popular hotel, The Dominick. Being located in SoHo, you’ll have access to some of the best stores in the world. The ModernHaus has a nice rooftop pool with amazing views.
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15 Mulberry Hotel
3 stars | The Mulberry is a basic hotel but in very good condition. Always clean and with attentive and efficient service and great value for money for this area of Downtown Manhattan. The best part? Some rooms even have terraces overlooking the city!
Its location just a few meters from one of the city’s main subway stations makes it ideal for sightseeing and shopping days.
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16 NobleDEN Hotel
4 stars | NobleDEN Hotel is located in the heart of Little Italy, just a few meters from Ferrara, one of the neighborhood’s most famous bakeries. It is also within walking distance of important landmarks such as the Brooklyn Bridge, and just a few minutes by subway to the main attractions of Manhattan.
The spacious and comfortable rooms are the ideal starting point for a trip to New York, no matter your preferences. From dining and drinking to shopping and sightseeing, the Hotel NobleDEN is sure not to disappoint.
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17 NoMo SoHo
4 stars | NoMo SoHo is a hotel that, as the tallest free-standing building in its area, offers great views of Manhattan from every possible angle.
Another really unique aspect of this hotel is that it really pulls from its surroundings to give you a one-of-a-kind experience! Located in Crosby Street, NoMo SoHo really leans into the creativity that is present all around. Everything at this hotel is artful, and a delightful mixture of old and new styles.
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18 Off Soho Suites
2 Stars | Each of the modern suites has a chic living room with a flat-screen TV, a dining area and a sofa bed. For all gym fans among you, there is a fitness centre which you can use free of charge.
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19 Roxy Hotel
4 Stars | The Roxy Hotel is a small boutique hotel known for its first-class service. Relaxed jazz music plays in the lobby, and you can have a great dinner or just a meal in the beautiful courtyard of the hotel.
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20 Sheraton Tribeca New York Hotel
4 Stars | The Sheraton Hotel in Tribeca is a truly outstanding hotel: the rooms are bright, big, and you can enjoy the view of the city from the rooftop terrace. Here you are right in the center of all the hustle and bustle of New York City. But inside the hotel, you won’t even notice that. It’s such a perfect combination.
Recommended article: The Best Best Hotels in Manhattan and the Best Hotels in New York.
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