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Reviews
Little Italy
rating details
Just now
- Neighborly Spirit
- Safe & Sound
- Clean & Green
- Pest Free
- Peace & Quiet
- Eating Out
- Nightlife
- Parks & Recreation
- Shopping Options
- Gym & Fitness
- Internet Access
- Lack of Traffic
- Parking
- Cost of Living
- Public Transport
"The Next Big Neighborhood"
Nolita has quietly become one of the coolest neighborhoods in New York. Full of all you could ask for as far as shopping, eating and drinking, Nolita is both charming and conveniently located by every other great downtown hood.
Narrow cobblestone streets, small brick buildings with personality, cafes and restaurants that have been in the neighborhood for decades give the area distinct personality and history. Unlike other neighborhoods that have to choose personality over gentrification, here the two play nicely together. New restaurants, bars and stores only add to Nolita's splendor. All you have to do to feel the "old New York" vibe is duck into a still-standing Italian deli - or just rent a tiny walk-up apartment! For new New York, check out the incredible shopping that not everyone seems to know about yet - La Bijoux for affordable, trendy costume jewelry, Charlotte Ronson, Rag and Bone and Botkier are just some of the designer boutiques, Creatures of Comfort is Nolita's answer to the impossibly chic Opening Ceremony, Inven.tory sells last season's designer wares at discount prices and SEW is a custom shop - not to mention tons of other tiny boutiques and bookstores you could spend hours in. Plus, Nolita is home to The Market, a weekend flea market of artists' and independent designers' cool one-of-a-kind items. After you've shopped up an appetite, Cafe Habana is known for its cozy setting and amazing Cuban food. Lovely Day is Thai food served up in an indie-chic, eclectic antique atmosphere, Delicatessen is New York's coolest diner, Macbar is its cheaper outpost for gourmet macaroni and cheese, La Esquina remains THE place to go for delish Mexican food and an in crowd scene, Peasant is a luxe spot for Tuscan fare, Lombardi's, while a tourist haven, is New York's first pizzeria and a must-try and Rice to Riches is the only place you'll find serving up a plethora of scrumptious rice pudding flavors. End your night at hipster hotspot Botanica, timelessly cool dive, Spring Lounge, edgy English gentleman's club-themed Elizabeth or Medieval-inspired Sweet & Vicious.
Narrow cobblestone streets, small brick buildings with personality, cafes and restaurants that have been in the neighborhood for decades give the area distinct personality and history. Unlike other neighborhoods that have to choose personality over gentrification, here the two play nicely together. New restaurants, bars and stores only add to Nolita's splendor. All you have to do to feel the "old New York" vibe is duck into a still-standing Italian deli - or just rent a tiny walk-up apartment! For new New York, check out the incredible shopping that not everyone seems to know about yet - La Bijoux for affordable, trendy costume jewelry, Charlotte Ronson, Rag and Bone and Botkier are just some of the designer boutiques, Creatures of Comfort is Nolita's answer to the impossibly chic Opening Ceremony, Inven.tory sells last season's designer wares at discount prices and SEW is a custom shop - not to mention tons of other tiny boutiques and bookstores you could spend hours in. Plus, Nolita is home to The Market, a weekend flea market of artists' and independent designers' cool one-of-a-kind items. After you've shopped up an appetite, Cafe Habana is known for its cozy setting and amazing Cuban food. Lovely Day is Thai food served up in an indie-chic, eclectic antique atmosphere, Delicatessen is New York's coolest diner, Macbar is its cheaper outpost for gourmet macaroni and cheese, La Esquina remains THE place to go for delish Mexican food and an in crowd scene, Peasant is a luxe spot for Tuscan fare, Lombardi's, while a tourist haven, is New York's first pizzeria and a must-try and Rice to Riches is the only place you'll find serving up a plethora of scrumptious rice pudding flavors. End your night at hipster hotspot Botanica, timelessly cool dive, Spring Lounge, edgy English gentleman's club-themed Elizabeth or Medieval-inspired Sweet & Vicious.
Pros
- Great restaurants
- Fantastic central location
- Great bars
- Very pretty
- endless bar/restaurant scene
Recommended for
- Professionals
- Singles
- Tourists
- LGBT+
- Hipsters
- Students
- Trendy & Stylish
SoHo
rating details
Just now
- Neighborly Spirit
- Safe & Sound
- Clean & Green
- Pest Free
- Peace & Quiet
- Eating Out
- Nightlife
- Parks & Recreation
- Shopping Options
- Gym & Fitness
- Internet Access
- Lack of Traffic
- Parking
- Cost of Living
- Public Transport
"The In Crowd's Hood"
There are two types of people consistently in Soho: wealthy young people who live in amazing lofts and eat at Soho's incredible, renowned restaurants, and tourists who come to shop up and down Broadway everyday. For those of us in the middle, Soho remains a go-to spot for shopping and perhaps nightlife.
Soho is one of the coolest neighborhoods aesthetically, thanks to this fusion it has going on of industrial and quaint. You'll find lots of cast iron architecture, warehouses and European embellishment along cobblestone streets. The apartments here are usually lofts and lots of bars and restaurants have opened in spacious warehouse-type locations. The shopping here is expensive and designer, with a few bones thrown to the middle class, like Topshop and H&M. Broadway has a few stores that are worth fighting crowds for, but usually the strip is a tourist-infested nightmare. The side streets, like Prince, Greene and Mercer, are the real gems, with off-the-beaten-track boutiques and bars. While you'll find fashion's best offerings in Soho - from Scoop to Catherine Malandrino to L'Agent Provocateur - you'll also find quirky-cool spots like KidRobot for toys and Evolution for scientific wonders and taxidermy.
The dining scene in Soho is fantastic if you've got the bucks, otherwise, not so much. But I do recommend Fanelli's on Prince and Broome Street Bar for that authentic Soho starving artist community vibe, only with delicious comfort food.
If more people could afford to live in Soho, it'd probably have a better reputation - people often write it off as pretentious. But aside from the tourist invasion, it can be a really cool place.
Soho is one of the coolest neighborhoods aesthetically, thanks to this fusion it has going on of industrial and quaint. You'll find lots of cast iron architecture, warehouses and European embellishment along cobblestone streets. The apartments here are usually lofts and lots of bars and restaurants have opened in spacious warehouse-type locations. The shopping here is expensive and designer, with a few bones thrown to the middle class, like Topshop and H&M. Broadway has a few stores that are worth fighting crowds for, but usually the strip is a tourist-infested nightmare. The side streets, like Prince, Greene and Mercer, are the real gems, with off-the-beaten-track boutiques and bars. While you'll find fashion's best offerings in Soho - from Scoop to Catherine Malandrino to L'Agent Provocateur - you'll also find quirky-cool spots like KidRobot for toys and Evolution for scientific wonders and taxidermy.
The dining scene in Soho is fantastic if you've got the bucks, otherwise, not so much. But I do recommend Fanelli's on Prince and Broome Street Bar for that authentic Soho starving artist community vibe, only with delicious comfort food.
If more people could afford to live in Soho, it'd probably have a better reputation - people often write it off as pretentious. But aside from the tourist invasion, it can be a really cool place.
Pros
- great designer shopping
- gorgeous buildings
- great bar scene
- central to everything
Cons
- Crowded
- expensive
- Lots of tourists
Recommended for
- Professionals
- Singles
- Families with kids
- Tourists
- LGBT+
- Hipsters
- Students
- Trendy & Stylish
NoHo
rating details
Just now
- Neighborly Spirit
- Safe & Sound
- Clean & Green
- Pest Free
- Peace & Quiet
- Eating Out
- Nightlife
- Parks & Recreation
- Shopping Options
- Gym & Fitness
- Internet Access
- Lack of Traffic
- Parking
- Cost of Living
- Public Transport
"A Pass-Through Downtown Hood"
The name Noho, "north of Houston" implies that this neighborhood is a counterpart of Soho. Well...no. It's so tiny, it's hardly a neighborhood, and there's not much to define it other than Astor Place, which sort of acts as a hub for the village - get off the subway there and walk one way for the East Village, one way for the West Village, etc. Noho is so small that there's just a few of everything to even consider. There are a few stores, but none too exciting as most are generic chain stores. There are a few restaurants, but none great enough to recommend. There are a few good bars actually worthy of a mention - Phebe's is a nice, sprawling spot with a solid drinks and food menu, great if you like sports. B Bar is a laid-back bar with a hint of chichi in the prices and decor, but a nice place to hang out for hours on end, especially on warmer nights in the back courtyard. Noho can boast culture in the way of the Public Theater, a reputable New York venue for many years. It's also home to the prestigious Cooper Union. Other than that, though, Noho is a spot you'll probably be passing through to get to other downtown neighborhoods.
Pros
- central location
- close to major transport
- decent bar scene
Cons
- Expensive to buy and rent because it is so desirable
- lacking in personality
- overrun with drunk students
Recommended for
- Professionals
- Singles
- LGBT+
- Students
Chelsea
rating details
Just now
- Neighborly Spirit
- Safe & Sound
- Clean & Green
- Pest Free
- Peace & Quiet
- Eating Out
- Nightlife
- Parks & Recreation
- Shopping Options
- Gym & Fitness
- Internet Access
- Lack of Traffic
- Parking
- Cost of Living
- Public Transport
- Medical Facilities
"Art, Culture and Entertainment Unite"
For a neighborhood so close to midtown, Chelsea is one of the most artistic areas in Manhattan. The first and most obvious sign of this are the many galleries spread through the neighborhood, which create this whole sort of gallery lifestyle of continuous openings, parties and showings. You don't have to be a member of art's in crowd to love Chelsea, though - in fact, like many of New York's best hoods, Chelsea has something for everyone. Even if you're a rock and roll lover and a fan of New York's gritty roots, it's not in the East Village or the Lower East Side that you'll find one of the most important rock and roll landmarks - it's in Chelsea. The Chelsea Hotel was once a revolving door of music's greatest and worst behaved, with some quieter, more philosophical artists thrown into the mix. It's best known for being the site of Nancy Spungen's murder at the hands of her heroin-addled Sex Pistol boyfriend, Sid Vicious. There are also guitar shops around the hotel that remain from the glory days of punk.
If it's vintage shopping you want, Chelsea's got it, from clothing to home goods. Check out Angel Street Thrift Shop and Pippin Vintage for some of the best finds in the city. Or, spend a day at the Antiques Garage, a multi-level parking garage turned flea market. If it's culture you want, Chelsea's got it, at the Rubin Museum. Peruse exhibits focusing predominantly on Asian cultures, discuss history at the bar or catch a flick for free on Friday nights. Perhaps you want chichi food shopping with some other boutiques thrown into the mix - then try Chelsea Market for high end food, whether you load up for home or stop at one of the delicious restaurants. For some activity, head to Chelsea Piers to engage in whatever sport your heart desires, or just take in the views with craft beer at Chelsea Brewery. And you can't forget Upright Citizen's Brigade, the renowned improv theater where many of comedy's modern greats (alums of Saturday Night Live, 30 Rock, etc.) got their start and still perform today - just line up for a $5 ticket on weekdays or a $10 weekend ticket. Restaurants, bars, shopping, art and culture abound in Chelsea - which is probably why a lot of us can't afford to live there. But we'll keep visiting.
If it's vintage shopping you want, Chelsea's got it, from clothing to home goods. Check out Angel Street Thrift Shop and Pippin Vintage for some of the best finds in the city. Or, spend a day at the Antiques Garage, a multi-level parking garage turned flea market. If it's culture you want, Chelsea's got it, at the Rubin Museum. Peruse exhibits focusing predominantly on Asian cultures, discuss history at the bar or catch a flick for free on Friday nights. Perhaps you want chichi food shopping with some other boutiques thrown into the mix - then try Chelsea Market for high end food, whether you load up for home or stop at one of the delicious restaurants. For some activity, head to Chelsea Piers to engage in whatever sport your heart desires, or just take in the views with craft beer at Chelsea Brewery. And you can't forget Upright Citizen's Brigade, the renowned improv theater where many of comedy's modern greats (alums of Saturday Night Live, 30 Rock, etc.) got their start and still perform today - just line up for a $5 ticket on weekdays or a $10 weekend ticket. Restaurants, bars, shopping, art and culture abound in Chelsea - which is probably why a lot of us can't afford to live there. But we'll keep visiting.
Pros
- Great culture and history
- Art scene
- Tons to do
Cons
- Expensive
Recommended for
- Professionals
- Singles
- Families with kids
- Tourists
- LGBT+
- Hipsters
- Students
- Trendy & Stylish
Upper West Side
rating details
Just now
- Neighborly Spirit
- Safe & Sound
- Clean & Green
- Pest Free
- Peace & Quiet
- Eating Out
- Nightlife
- Parks & Recreation
- Shopping Options
- Gym & Fitness
- Internet Access
- Lack of Traffic
- Parking
- Cost of Living
- Public Transport
- Medical Facilities
- Schools
- Childcare
"A Truly Neighborhoody Neighborhood"
You've seen the beautiful Upper West Side depicted in movies as this darling neighborhood where creative types, professionals and families come together. Well, it exists. From commercial strips of chain stores to quaint rows of brownstones to side streets of boutiques and hidden gem restaurants, the Upper West Side is both charming and convenient.
It's one of the best places in Manhattan to raise a family, since the rents are, while on the higher side, not astronomical and there are plenty of good schools, parks, etc. There's tons to do there, from Central Park and the Museum of Natural History to Lincoln Center and its adjacent theaters and independent movie theaters. Restaurants in the area represent every part of the world, whether you find them on a sleek, bustling avenue or a charming little side street. Columbus Circle acts as a commercial shopping hub, complete with a sleek mall and other nearby stores. If you're looking for something more off-the-radar, just roam any street for a vintage store or rare used book shop. Amsterdam is one of the best avenues for food and drink no matter what time of the day - from excellent brunch spots to bars that really get the party going.
With all of this to do, tons of conveniences everywhere you look, and great transportation anywhere else you need to go, it's a wonder why people still live elsewhere!
It's one of the best places in Manhattan to raise a family, since the rents are, while on the higher side, not astronomical and there are plenty of good schools, parks, etc. There's tons to do there, from Central Park and the Museum of Natural History to Lincoln Center and its adjacent theaters and independent movie theaters. Restaurants in the area represent every part of the world, whether you find them on a sleek, bustling avenue or a charming little side street. Columbus Circle acts as a commercial shopping hub, complete with a sleek mall and other nearby stores. If you're looking for something more off-the-radar, just roam any street for a vintage store or rare used book shop. Amsterdam is one of the best avenues for food and drink no matter what time of the day - from excellent brunch spots to bars that really get the party going.
With all of this to do, tons of conveniences everywhere you look, and great transportation anywhere else you need to go, it's a wonder why people still live elsewhere!
Pros
- major cultural institutions
- proximity to Central Park
- affordable rents
- Beautiful
- Great restaurants
Cons
- far from downtown
Recommended for
- Professionals
- Singles
- Families with kids
- Retirees
- LGBT+
Clinton / Hells Kitchen
rating details
Just now
- Neighborly Spirit
- Safe & Sound
- Clean & Green
- Pest Free
- Peace & Quiet
- Eating Out
- Nightlife
- Parks & Recreation
- Shopping Options
- Gym & Fitness
- Internet Access
- Lack of Traffic
- Parking
- Cost of Living
- Public Transport
- Schools
"A Tough Neighborhood with a Heart of Gold"
Hell's Kitchen is one of the most interesting neighborhoods in the city. It used to be pretty dangerous and poor, but not in the way we're used to now. It was an immigrant ghetto, known especially for Irish organized crime. This was one tough neighborhood, and definitely retains its tough name with pride, even if the crime is pretty much gone and in its place are restaurants and stores. There is still a definite cool New York attitude about living or being from this area.
Today, it's been gentrified, but at least not in an overly yuppie sort of way. Instead, it's been filled up with restaurants that are delicious and affordable, and haven't been touted around town as hotspots so you can still get a table. Everything here is very neighborhood-y - you can sit back and enjoy a meal or a beer that happens to be amazing without having to be in a trendy locale with tourists or such. The bars are quality pubs and beer bars, with a lot of the original Irish joints still going strong. Shopping is limited to conveniences and a few scattered boutiques here and there - it's likely more will pop up in years to come.
Tenth Avenue and west is still pretty barren, but because of this the apartments are still very affordable. That makes this a great neighborhood for young professionals who can get a great deal and be but an avenue away from the action.
Today, it's been gentrified, but at least not in an overly yuppie sort of way. Instead, it's been filled up with restaurants that are delicious and affordable, and haven't been touted around town as hotspots so you can still get a table. Everything here is very neighborhood-y - you can sit back and enjoy a meal or a beer that happens to be amazing without having to be in a trendy locale with tourists or such. The bars are quality pubs and beer bars, with a lot of the original Irish joints still going strong. Shopping is limited to conveniences and a few scattered boutiques here and there - it's likely more will pop up in years to come.
Tenth Avenue and west is still pretty barren, but because of this the apartments are still very affordable. That makes this a great neighborhood for young professionals who can get a great deal and be but an avenue away from the action.
Pros
- Neighborhood vibe
- Rich history
- The Flea Market on 39th street between 9th and 10th avenues
- cheap rent stabilized apartments
- Many diverse restaurants along 9th avenue
Cons
- boring
- Noisy
Recommended for
- Professionals
- Singles
- Families with kids
- LGBT+
- Hipsters
- Students
Tribeca
rating details
Just now
- Neighborly Spirit
- Safe & Sound
- Clean & Green
- Peace & Quiet
- Eating Out
- Nightlife
- Parks & Recreation
- Shopping Options
- Gym & Fitness
- Lack of Traffic
- Parking
- Cost of Living
- Public Transport
- Schools
"A Trendy Place Perfect for Families"
Tribeca is one of New York's most desirable neighborhoods to live in. Spacious lofts in a quiet area that has just the right amount of restaurants and nightlife to make it cool but not crowded. As you can imagine, these factors are evident in the rent and real estate.
The neighborhood is spotless and also charming as the older, downtown neighborhoods tend to be. It's by the river, which means fresh air and access to pier activities like kayaking. Hudson River Park connects parks and gardens along the river for a dose of nature and tons of outdoor activities. The streets, many quaint and cobblestoned, are lined with convenient shopping, boutiques, designer stores, pet shops, laid-back bars and lounges, cool nightlife like Macao Trading Co. and some of New York's best restaurants like Nobu.
Of course, there are plenty of streets that are very modern, so not too quaint or "old New York" but at least a different sight. And the Canal part of Tribeca isn't so desirable but it's no reflection of the rest of the beautiful area. You might not be able to afford to live in Tribeca, but it's definitely worth the visit. It must be the general concensus that the neighborhood is something special, since the very prestigious annual film festival is here.
The neighborhood is spotless and also charming as the older, downtown neighborhoods tend to be. It's by the river, which means fresh air and access to pier activities like kayaking. Hudson River Park connects parks and gardens along the river for a dose of nature and tons of outdoor activities. The streets, many quaint and cobblestoned, are lined with convenient shopping, boutiques, designer stores, pet shops, laid-back bars and lounges, cool nightlife like Macao Trading Co. and some of New York's best restaurants like Nobu.
Of course, there are plenty of streets that are very modern, so not too quaint or "old New York" but at least a different sight. And the Canal part of Tribeca isn't so desirable but it's no reflection of the rest of the beautiful area. You might not be able to afford to live in Tribeca, but it's definitely worth the visit. It must be the general concensus that the neighborhood is something special, since the very prestigious annual film festival is here.
Pros
- Loft apartments
- World class restaurants
- Quiet and peaceful
Cons
- Expensive
- Pretty far from everything
- Not too many subway connections
Recommended for
- Professionals
- Singles
- Families with kids
- Tourists
- LGBT+
- Hipsters
- Trendy & Stylish
Bowery
rating details
Just now
- Neighborly Spirit
- Safe & Sound
- Clean & Green
- Peace & Quiet
- Eating Out
- Nightlife
- Parks & Recreation
- Shopping Options
- Internet Access
- Lack of Traffic
- Parking
- Cost of Living
"Punk Rock Turns to Trendy"
The Bowery was once the heartbeat of punk, both the music and the culture. True punks lined the streets of the dive bar and music venue haven, whether they were looking for a gig or a drug score. Maybe the idea of that makes New Yorkers today uncomfortable - stepping through drug deals and such - but neighborhoods like this shaped New York and gave it character.
Since then, the Bowery has been almost 100% gentrified. Which is a shame. Of course the area needed to be cleaned up, and some cool bars and restaurants never hurt anyone. It's just a bit sad that the punk spirit had to be totally driven out of town. That being said, New York is always strong and defiant, and neighborhoods like the Bowery seem to have clung onto the last shreds of cool grittiness that made it what it is. Maybe the squatters are gone, but this is still an area where struggling musicians head to to be part of an art community and near some important venues that still exist downtown. The hood still has just a little bit of edge. Even if high rises like the Avalon are trying to put an end to that.
One good thing that came out of the gentrification process here is the places that happened to settle in the area. Some of the best restaurants are in the Bowery: DBGB, Five Points and Gemma at the Bowery Hotel - the Bowery Hotel being a very cool place to hang out in the first place. The bars were always good and still are, even if the vibe has changed from dive to hotspot. The Bowery Electric is easily the coolest bar and music venue to make your regular hangout. And the shopping isn't too shabby, either. Just head into Patricia Field for fashion that's a perfect fit for the Bowery's rock and roll roots, or into Blue and Cream for designer wares.
The Bowery is just another really cool neighborhood with lots to do now, but if you know the right places you can still feel that punk attitude.
Since then, the Bowery has been almost 100% gentrified. Which is a shame. Of course the area needed to be cleaned up, and some cool bars and restaurants never hurt anyone. It's just a bit sad that the punk spirit had to be totally driven out of town. That being said, New York is always strong and defiant, and neighborhoods like the Bowery seem to have clung onto the last shreds of cool grittiness that made it what it is. Maybe the squatters are gone, but this is still an area where struggling musicians head to to be part of an art community and near some important venues that still exist downtown. The hood still has just a little bit of edge. Even if high rises like the Avalon are trying to put an end to that.
One good thing that came out of the gentrification process here is the places that happened to settle in the area. Some of the best restaurants are in the Bowery: DBGB, Five Points and Gemma at the Bowery Hotel - the Bowery Hotel being a very cool place to hang out in the first place. The bars were always good and still are, even if the vibe has changed from dive to hotspot. The Bowery Electric is easily the coolest bar and music venue to make your regular hangout. And the shopping isn't too shabby, either. Just head into Patricia Field for fashion that's a perfect fit for the Bowery's rock and roll roots, or into Blue and Cream for designer wares.
The Bowery is just another really cool neighborhood with lots to do now, but if you know the right places you can still feel that punk attitude.
Pros
- Lots to do
- Great nightlife
- Cool New York history
Cons
- Too gentrified
Recommended for
- Professionals
- Singles
- Tourists
- LGBT+
- Hipsters
- Students
- Trendy & Stylish
West Village
rating details
Just now
- Neighborly Spirit
- Safe & Sound
- Clean & Green
- Peace & Quiet
- Eating Out
- Nightlife
- Parks & Recreation
- Shopping Options
- Internet Access
- Lack of Traffic
- Parking
- Cost of Living
- Public Transport
- Medical Facilities
- Schools
"An Enchanted Village"
The West Village is New York's most charming neighborhood. Winding cobblestone streets lines with leafy trees, old brownstones, hidden gem pubs, tiny theaters - it's like something you could never imagine fnding in New York. This western end of Bleecker Street is packed with high end designer shopping - especially anything and everything Marc Jacobs. Eighth Avenue turns into Hudson Street and is lined with stores and cafes. Streets like Jane are quaint little ways with tiny stores and hole-in-the-wall restaurants that will surprise with delicious menus, while streets like Barrow offer breathakingly beautiful residential stretches. Christopher Street and West 10th offer more boutiques, restaurants, cafes and bars. West 12th is known for a lovely mix of beautiful residences and restaurants. Seventh Avenue acts as a busy hub for the neighborhood, the smaller streets cutting across it this way and that. Here you'll find bigger restaurants, diners, chain stores and conveniences like drug stores and such - of course, in the true West Village spirit, you'll find a little shop on Perry Street for skin cream instead of going to Duane Reade.
Getting around might be confusing the first few times, thanks to named streets that don't always stick to a grid. But whether it's to shop, eat, go out or just walk around and see the sights, you'll want to come back to the West Village more than enough times to get to know it and its streets.
Getting around might be confusing the first few times, thanks to named streets that don't always stick to a grid. But whether it's to shop, eat, go out or just walk around and see the sights, you'll want to come back to the West Village more than enough times to get to know it and its streets.
Pros
- excellent restaurants
- Beautiful brownstones
- great bar scene
- Tons of history
- Beautiful
- Lots of trees
- quiet
- excellent neighborhood for exploring eating/shopping options
- awesome range of shops/restaurants; something for every wish
Cons
- expensive
Recommended for
- Professionals
- Singles
- Families with kids
- Tourists
- LGBT+
- Hipsters
- Students
- Trendy & Stylish
Greenwich Village
rating details
Just now
- Neighborly Spirit
- Safe & Sound
- Clean & Green
- Peace & Quiet
- Eating Out
- Nightlife
- Parks & Recreation
- Shopping Options
- Internet Access
- Lack of Traffic
- Parking
- Cost of Living
- Public Transport
- Schools
"The Neighborhood That Has It All"
Greenwich Village is one of the very best neighborhoods in Manhattan, basically because it has everything you could wish for packaged in a charming, small-town vibe sort of way. Start at the not-so-small-town Union Square for all of your convenience shopping - it's the village's hub for chain stores, including Best Buy, Whole Foods, DSW, Babies R US, etc. Along the east side of Greenwich Village runs Broadway, and the stretch here is lined with great shopping - boutiques, vintage store, designer stores and a few cooler versions of chains like Urban Outfitters and Le Petit Chateau. Along the west side is Sixth Avenue, and this is arguably the best stretch of this avenue. Boutiques, cafes and little restaurants line this stretch where iconic village streets like Bleecker meet it.
Then you have Washington Square Park, long the one and only place to go for some of New York's best street performers. The brownstones that surround the park are gorgeous and stately, juxtaposing the park's gritty history - though it's cleaned up now. Along the streets of MacDougal, Sullivan and Thompson, especially between Bleecker and West 3rd, you have everything you could want in the way of nightlife, from great restaurants representing every part of the world and bars that range from raucous club to quiet pub. The only problem you may find here is the brazen invasion of NYU students, which some people claim has ruined the area. It has in no way ruined the area - there are still great stores, restaurants, bars and the architecture and spirit of the village remain. But it is definitely an obstacle to overcome when trying to enjoy a night out.
The most amazing thing about Greenwich Village is that it has literally everything you could want, but that's not even enough for it. It also happens to be surrounded by New York's other coolest neighborhoods, so if you're somehow not satisfied by this neighborhood, you're just blocks away from another.
Then you have Washington Square Park, long the one and only place to go for some of New York's best street performers. The brownstones that surround the park are gorgeous and stately, juxtaposing the park's gritty history - though it's cleaned up now. Along the streets of MacDougal, Sullivan and Thompson, especially between Bleecker and West 3rd, you have everything you could want in the way of nightlife, from great restaurants representing every part of the world and bars that range from raucous club to quiet pub. The only problem you may find here is the brazen invasion of NYU students, which some people claim has ruined the area. It has in no way ruined the area - there are still great stores, restaurants, bars and the architecture and spirit of the village remain. But it is definitely an obstacle to overcome when trying to enjoy a night out.
The most amazing thing about Greenwich Village is that it has literally everything you could want, but that's not even enough for it. It also happens to be surrounded by New York's other coolest neighborhoods, so if you're somehow not satisfied by this neighborhood, you're just blocks away from another.
Pros
- Great nightlife, restaurants and shopping
- Rich history and neighborhood spirit
- Close to everything
Cons
- NYU students
Recommended for
- Professionals
- Singles
- Families with kids
- Tourists
- LGBT+
- Hipsters
- Students
- Trendy & Stylish
Midtown
rating details
Just now
- Safe & Sound
- Clean & Green
- Peace & Quiet
- Eating Out
- Nightlife
- Parks & Recreation
- Shopping Options
- Gym & Fitness
- Lack of Traffic
- Parking
- Cost of Living
- Public Transport
"Commercialism and Tourism"
Midtown. It's a necessary evil. It's a pit of traffic and tourists. But it's where a lot of us Manhattanites make our money. And if you look hard enough - or should I say, elbow your way through some out-of-towners hard enough, you can find somethings that make Midtown worthwhile.
Good things in Midtown: Fifth Avenue shopping if you can handle the crowds: further down in Midtown, the shopping is affordable fare like Zara and H&M. As you walk north, you’ll hit more designer boutiques. Bryant Park: while also overrun by tourists quite often, this is a really pretty little oasis right smack in the middle of Midtown with tables to eat lunch at, a charming carousel, places to grab a little gourmet sandwich and such a nice leafy lawn. The best part of Bryant Park is its events, like the Holiday Market during winter and outdoor films in the summer.
But mostly, Midtown is for two things: commercial industries and tourists. Yes, the theater district is tops if you’re going to a show but if you’re not, whatever are you doing there? All of the restaurants are marketed toward tourists, so you know what that means: bland, generic food at hiked-up prices. Like Carmine’s? What a bad excuse for New York Italian food. Restaurant row? There’s not a respected culinary force to be seen. You don’t have to go far from Midtown to hit cool Manhattan spots – beer bars await in Hell’s Kitchen and Murray Hill, Central Park awaits uptown, the Flatiron District awaits downtown. But unless you’re looking to get shoved around while you shop at Toys R Us and eat at Red Lobster, there’s not much reason to go here.
Good things in Midtown: Fifth Avenue shopping if you can handle the crowds: further down in Midtown, the shopping is affordable fare like Zara and H&M. As you walk north, you’ll hit more designer boutiques. Bryant Park: while also overrun by tourists quite often, this is a really pretty little oasis right smack in the middle of Midtown with tables to eat lunch at, a charming carousel, places to grab a little gourmet sandwich and such a nice leafy lawn. The best part of Bryant Park is its events, like the Holiday Market during winter and outdoor films in the summer.
But mostly, Midtown is for two things: commercial industries and tourists. Yes, the theater district is tops if you’re going to a show but if you’re not, whatever are you doing there? All of the restaurants are marketed toward tourists, so you know what that means: bland, generic food at hiked-up prices. Like Carmine’s? What a bad excuse for New York Italian food. Restaurant row? There’s not a respected culinary force to be seen. You don’t have to go far from Midtown to hit cool Manhattan spots – beer bars await in Hell’s Kitchen and Murray Hill, Central Park awaits uptown, the Flatiron District awaits downtown. But unless you’re looking to get shoved around while you shop at Toys R Us and eat at Red Lobster, there’s not much reason to go here.
Pros
- Transportation
- Byrant Park
Cons
- bars are lame
- Crowded
- Tourists
- everything's overpriced for tourists
- Petty crime remains a problem
- Ugliest streets in Manhattan
- Devoid of character
Recommended for
- Tourists
Harlem
rating details
Just now
- Neighborly Spirit
- Safe & Sound
- Clean & Green
- Pest Free
- Peace & Quiet
- Eating Out
- Nightlife
- Parks & Recreation
- Shopping Options
- Gym & Fitness
- Lack of Traffic
- Parking
- Cost of Living
- Public Transport
- Schools
"Manhattan's Epicenter of History - Just Enjoy with Caution"
Harlem is one of the richest neighborhoods in Manhattan for history and culture. Since before the Jazz Age, it has been a hotspot of breakout talent in the black community. You could spend the day here just wandering from one historical landmark to the next, encompassing nightclubs and neighborhood staple restaurants. The spirit lives on in cultural stalwarts like the Apollo Theater.
Streets of old-world brownstones alternate with streets of more modern apartment buildings. Incredibly authentic ethnic restaurants mix with familiar American chain restaurants. Bargain boutiques mingle with chain stores and conveniences like drugstores and supermarkets. It’s safe to say Harlem has all you could ask for, including very affordable rents, but many residents say the best thing about the neighborhood is the community itself – the children who play outside, the parents who sit and talk while watching them.
Still, the crime factor cannot be neglected. Many parts of Harlem, unfortunately, just are not safe. This explains the low rents. Many young professionals are willing to take their chances to score brownstones for less than anywhere else in Manhattan, but you have to be careful about where you’re looking to live – or visit. Harlem can be an amazing New York experience with some caution.
Streets of old-world brownstones alternate with streets of more modern apartment buildings. Incredibly authentic ethnic restaurants mix with familiar American chain restaurants. Bargain boutiques mingle with chain stores and conveniences like drugstores and supermarkets. It’s safe to say Harlem has all you could ask for, including very affordable rents, but many residents say the best thing about the neighborhood is the community itself – the children who play outside, the parents who sit and talk while watching them.
Still, the crime factor cannot be neglected. Many parts of Harlem, unfortunately, just are not safe. This explains the low rents. Many young professionals are willing to take their chances to score brownstones for less than anywhere else in Manhattan, but you have to be careful about where you’re looking to live – or visit. Harlem can be an amazing New York experience with some caution.
Pros
- Rich history
- Lots of conveniences and restaurants
- Good transportation
Cons
- Dangerous
- No nightlife
- Dirty in places
Recommended for
- Professionals
- Singles
- Students
East Harlem
rating details
Just now
- Safe & Sound
- Clean & Green
- Pest Free
- Peace & Quiet
- Eating Out
- Nightlife
- Parks & Recreation
- Shopping Options
- Lack of Traffic
- Cost of Living
- Public Transport
"Overshadowed by Safety Concerns"
East Harlem is rich in history and culture. It has long served as the hub for Hispanic immigrants in Manhattan, and the evidence of this lies in notable Hispanics from the community, as well as neighborhood institutions like delicious and authentic Latin restaurants. Central Park borders the southern part of the area. Brownstones line the streets. There is plenty of bargain shopping, where, similar to Chinatown, you can get everyday needs for much lower prices.
Unfortunately, most of this is overshadowed by the area's crime rates and overall state of disrepair. While a general dirty, dingy quality hangs over those brownstones, the crime factor keeps people away from the amazing restaurants come nighttime. The area remains almost exclusive to its residents, for better or worse. What East Harlem has to offer might be great, but it's nothing you can't find elsewhere in Manhattan without the safety risks, so that's just what most New Yorkers do.
New conveniences like the Target and Costco shopping center will bring some Manhattanites up just for that trip, and are signs of the first stages of gentrification. But for now, East Harlem can only really offer cheap apartments if you're willing to deal with the disadvantages at hand.
Unfortunately, most of this is overshadowed by the area's crime rates and overall state of disrepair. While a general dirty, dingy quality hangs over those brownstones, the crime factor keeps people away from the amazing restaurants come nighttime. The area remains almost exclusive to its residents, for better or worse. What East Harlem has to offer might be great, but it's nothing you can't find elsewhere in Manhattan without the safety risks, so that's just what most New Yorkers do.
New conveniences like the Target and Costco shopping center will bring some Manhattanites up just for that trip, and are signs of the first stages of gentrification. But for now, East Harlem can only really offer cheap apartments if you're willing to deal with the disadvantages at hand.
Pros
- affordable rents
- the new shopping mall at 125th which has the city's only Costco outlet and Manhattan's first Target
- Great South/Central American restaurants
Cons
- crime rates
- far from downtown
- Dirty
Roosevelt Island
rating details
Just now
- Safe & Sound
- Clean & Green
- Peace & Quiet
- Eating Out
- Nightlife
- Parks & Recreation
- Shopping Options
- Lack of Traffic
- Parking
- Cost of Living
- Public Transport
- Medical Facilities
- Schools
"Desolate and Dull"
Roosevelt Island has three things going for it, and each one appeals to a different group of people. For those who want to live in Manhattan but need more affordable rents and are willing to sacrifice the convenience and liveliness of the city: Roosevelt Island has spacious apartments at low prices. For those who live in New York and are looking for an interesting, one-time day trip: Roosevelt Island has great views of the city and the river, plus tons of history to walk around and take in. For those with a bit of a dark side: Roosevelt Island was home to mental hospitals and other such institutions - most of which have since been knocked down, but you can still sneak around to explore the eerie old smallpox hospital.
Roosevelt Island is almost exclusively residential. There are a few conveniences, like a Duane Reade and Starbuck's, because how ridiculous would it be to get on a subway - especially the unreliable F - or a tram to get a cup of coffee? But that's just what residents have to do if they want to go to dinner, go shopping, go to a bar or do just about anything. The tram is a cool thing to do once as a New Yorker (plus it takes MetroCards) for the sake of the view, but I imagine it gets old for residents who probably wish there were more subway lines than the F so their choices weren't between that and this tram. The pluses of living here would be left at the rents, some parks and the medical facilities that still stand.
Roosevelt Island is almost exclusively residential. There are a few conveniences, like a Duane Reade and Starbuck's, because how ridiculous would it be to get on a subway - especially the unreliable F - or a tram to get a cup of coffee? But that's just what residents have to do if they want to go to dinner, go shopping, go to a bar or do just about anything. The tram is a cool thing to do once as a New Yorker (plus it takes MetroCards) for the sake of the view, but I imagine it gets old for residents who probably wish there were more subway lines than the F so their choices weren't between that and this tram. The pluses of living here would be left at the rents, some parks and the medical facilities that still stand.
Pros
- quiet
- Cool haunted stuff
- Gorgeous views of Manhattan
- safe
Cons
- boring
- isolated
- no nightlife
- Poor retail options
Recommended for
- Professionals
- Families with kids
- Retirees
Battery Park City
rating details
Just now
- Neighborly Spirit
- Safe & Sound
- Clean & Green
- Pest Free
- Peace & Quiet
- Eating Out
- Nightlife
- Parks & Recreation
- Shopping Options
- Lack of Traffic
- Parking
- Cost of Living
- Public Transport
- Schools
- Childcare
"All About the Views"
There's not much going on in Battery Park City aside from two things: views and residences. The residences are lovely and the area schools are great, making the neighborhood a good place to settle. But there's not much else to do there.
It's the kind of place you should make sure to visit once, whether you're a tourist or a New York resident. It's worth battling the crowds to stroll the lovely cobblestone esplanade and take in gorgeous views of the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, Governor's Island and Staten Island, among other sights. The neighborhood plays up its visual stimulation with lookout points and art scattered around.
As far as what to do when you're done with the views, the Museum of Jewish Heritage with its Living Memorial to the Holocaust is a must for anyone with even the slightest interest in history. When it comes to dining, the entire area is focused on daytime, so you'll have better luck finding a lunch spot than a dinner spot. There's no shopping to speak of, aside from convenience-type stores and no nightlife. Basically, Battery Park City is a place to visit for a day's worth of views. You should make sure you go once, but you'll probably never feel the need to go again.
It's the kind of place you should make sure to visit once, whether you're a tourist or a New York resident. It's worth battling the crowds to stroll the lovely cobblestone esplanade and take in gorgeous views of the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, Governor's Island and Staten Island, among other sights. The neighborhood plays up its visual stimulation with lookout points and art scattered around.
As far as what to do when you're done with the views, the Museum of Jewish Heritage with its Living Memorial to the Holocaust is a must for anyone with even the slightest interest in history. When it comes to dining, the entire area is focused on daytime, so you'll have better luck finding a lunch spot than a dinner spot. There's no shopping to speak of, aside from convenience-type stores and no nightlife. Basically, Battery Park City is a place to visit for a day's worth of views. You should make sure you go once, but you'll probably never feel the need to go again.
Pros
- Gorgeous views of the water
- Great Park
- quiet
- Upscale doorman residences
- Good schools located nearby
- On the Water
Cons
- dead at night
- Not too many shopping options
- boring
Recommended for
- Professionals
- Families with kids
- Retirees
- Tourists
- LGBT+
East Village
rating details
Just now
- Neighborly Spirit
- Safe & Sound
- Clean & Green
- Pest Free
- Peace & Quiet
- Eating Out
- Nightlife
- Parks & Recreation
- Shopping Options
- Gym & Fitness
- Internet Access
- Lack of Traffic
- Parking
- Cost of Living
- Public Transport
- Medical Facilities
- Schools
Editors Choice
"New York's Everything with Downtown Attitude"
People who love the East Village are probably pretty partial, but to us, this neighborhood is the hub of Manhattan - historically, culturally and socially. The area served as the stage for some of music's most important moments in New York, centering around the infamous CBGB. St. Mark's Place was once a block of punk squatters and starving musicians looking for a break. The neighborhood was alive with a gritty music culture. Today, that spirit has pretty much been driven out by gentrification, but the East Village remains defiant by remaining one of New York's underground music headquarters. You'll find punk and metal bars like Lit Lounge and the Library, residents that range from the original punks to new indie musicians honing their craft in an artistic hood, not to mention plenty of hole-in-the-wall music venues to discover your new favorite band in.
While gentrification may have taken all that's cool about St. Mark's Place and replaced it with Jamba Juice and Chipotle - except for two stalwart stores that have survived since their glory days: Trash Vaudeville and the vintage shop, Search and Destroy - on some blocks, it's brought fantastic restaurants, bars and boutiques. Traverse 9th Street from East to West for a mix of vintage and new boutiques that appeal to all alternative senses of style. Eat anything from Thai to North African along Second Avenue. And as far as bars, the East Village has you covered no matter what your scene is - decadence? Bourgeois Pig. History, sophistication? Burp Castle. Beer lover? Jimmy's No. 43. Hipster? Blue and Gold. Just here to party? Double Down Saloon. A book could be written on the East Village's diverse and thriving nightlife. (Of course, don't forget that with reputable nightlife comes the B&T crowd, so know what places to avoid - especially new places like The Thirteenth Step.)
The East Village literally has it all. Leafy beauty and pets galore at Tompkins Square Park. Food from around the world. The highest concentration of bars you'll find in New York. Shopping that ranges from chain stores in Union Square to quirky boutiques on side streets. Rare book shops, theaters (Joe's Pub!), music venues, movie theaters - plus the East Village attitude that remains strong even though the area has definitely been infiltrated by yuppies and B&Ts. But, who could blame them? Who wouldn't want to come here?
While gentrification may have taken all that's cool about St. Mark's Place and replaced it with Jamba Juice and Chipotle - except for two stalwart stores that have survived since their glory days: Trash Vaudeville and the vintage shop, Search and Destroy - on some blocks, it's brought fantastic restaurants, bars and boutiques. Traverse 9th Street from East to West for a mix of vintage and new boutiques that appeal to all alternative senses of style. Eat anything from Thai to North African along Second Avenue. And as far as bars, the East Village has you covered no matter what your scene is - decadence? Bourgeois Pig. History, sophistication? Burp Castle. Beer lover? Jimmy's No. 43. Hipster? Blue and Gold. Just here to party? Double Down Saloon. A book could be written on the East Village's diverse and thriving nightlife. (Of course, don't forget that with reputable nightlife comes the B&T crowd, so know what places to avoid - especially new places like The Thirteenth Step.)
The East Village literally has it all. Leafy beauty and pets galore at Tompkins Square Park. Food from around the world. The highest concentration of bars you'll find in New York. Shopping that ranges from chain stores in Union Square to quirky boutiques on side streets. Rare book shops, theaters (Joe's Pub!), music venues, movie theaters - plus the East Village attitude that remains strong even though the area has definitely been infiltrated by yuppies and B&Ts. But, who could blame them? Who wouldn't want to come here?
Pros
- Tons to do
- Great nightlife
- Lots of history
Cons
- Crowded and noisy
- Invaded by the Bridge and Tunnel crowd
Recommended for
- Professionals
- Singles
- Families with kids
- Tourists
- LGBT+
- Hipsters
- Students
- Trendy & Stylish
Hamilton Heights
rating details
Just now
- Neighborly Spirit
- Safe & Sound
- Clean & Green
- Pest Free
- Peace & Quiet
- Eating Out
- Nightlife
- Parks & Recreation
- Shopping Options
- Lack of Traffic
- Parking
- Public Transport
"Affordable Apartments Served with a Side of Safety Concerns"
Hamilton Heights has long been known for incredible apartment deals: beautiful, spacious apartments at covetably low prices. For that reason, it has also long been where people who are just starting out in the career world move to. However, there's a price for those great deals. The area is still not the safest.
The pluses of the neighborhood include the aforementioned apartments, some picturesque architecture, rich Harlem history seen in dance centers, theaters and a few jazz clubs, conveniences like delis, drugstores and grocery markets and a couple of lush, leafy parks with great views.
However, you can't go near these parks at night, and frankly, you have to be careful anywhere in the region at night, especially if you're a woman. The area is great if you have sharp street smarts, have a job that has you in and out early, or live with someone else you can team up when you're out at night. If you've gotten all that checked off, and if you don't mind a longer subway ride downtown, then Hamilton Heights could definitely be worth it in terms of the affordable living. It also has that great mix of being in Manhattan with easy access anywhere else in the borough, while being relatively un-urban in a sense, thanks to a neighborhood feel and the parks that surround the area.
The pluses of the neighborhood include the aforementioned apartments, some picturesque architecture, rich Harlem history seen in dance centers, theaters and a few jazz clubs, conveniences like delis, drugstores and grocery markets and a couple of lush, leafy parks with great views.
However, you can't go near these parks at night, and frankly, you have to be careful anywhere in the region at night, especially if you're a woman. The area is great if you have sharp street smarts, have a job that has you in and out early, or live with someone else you can team up when you're out at night. If you've gotten all that checked off, and if you don't mind a longer subway ride downtown, then Hamilton Heights could definitely be worth it in terms of the affordable living. It also has that great mix of being in Manhattan with easy access anywhere else in the borough, while being relatively un-urban in a sense, thanks to a neighborhood feel and the parks that surround the area.
Pros
- Harlem history
- Parks add a green factor
- affordable rents
- No great restaurants though cheap food abounds
Cons
- crime rates
- dead at night
- far from downtown
- Crime rates have skyrocketed especially crimes against young women
- boring
Recommended for
- Professionals
- Singles
- Families with kids
- LGBT+
- Students
Morningside Heights
rating details
Just now
- Neighborly Spirit
- Safe & Sound
- Clean & Green
- Pest Free
- Peace & Quiet
- Eating Out
- Nightlife
- Parks & Recreation
- Shopping Options
- Gym & Fitness
- Internet Access
- Lack of Traffic
- Parking
- Cost of Living
- Public Transport
- Medical Facilities
- Schools
"Columbia Revives a Beautiful Neighborhood - for Better or Worse"
Morningside Heights is still trying to overcome a reputation for being a fairly dangerous neighborhood - a struggle that continues thanks in part to the occasional criminal incidents that still occur. However, Columbia University has, over the years, acquired much of the property here, and so the area has come to be known for the prestigious, picturesque university with its European architecture. There are plenty of other grand, beautiful historic sites in the area, like the Cathedral Church of St. John the Divine and Grant's Tomb. These institutions have allowed for an easy transition into a lovely neighborhood, full of lively bars, sweet cafes and an up-and-coming restaurant scene. Of course, these places are mostly frequented by Columbia students, so the fact that this little neighborhood can feel like a college town at times is either a good thing or a bad thing, depending on who you are. If you're younger, you might love the revived nightlife and buzz. If you're older, you might find the crowding of students in your favorite bar irritating. But Morningside Heights has the affordable rents, spacious apartments, relative quiet during the day and modern conveniences to be ideal for families.
There is still the risk of crime to contend with. While relatively safe now, the area is not without cause for caution. The neighborhood can easily be lived in and loved with some street smarts.
There is still the risk of crime to contend with. While relatively safe now, the area is not without cause for caution. The neighborhood can easily be lived in and loved with some street smarts.
Pros
- great bookstores
- feels like a college town
- Buildings are beautiful
- Great coffee shops to write a novel in
- Proximity to Columbia
- family-friendly
- Home to the stunning Cathedral of St John the Divine
Cons
- Can be dangerous at night
- dominated by the university
- Noisy and crowded, especially if you're not a student
Recommended for
- Professionals
- Singles
- Families with kids
- LGBT+
- Hipsters
- Students
Washington Heights
rating details
Just now
- Neighborly Spirit
- Safe & Sound
- Clean & Green
- Pest Free
- Peace & Quiet
- Eating Out
- Nightlife
- Parks & Recreation
- Shopping Options
- Gym & Fitness
- Internet Access
- Lack of Traffic
- Parking
- Cost of Living
- Public Transport
- Medical Facilities
"History and Beauty Mix With a Still-Struggling to be Safe Neighborhood"
Washington Heights is an area rich in flavor and history. Again in uptown Manhattan, the iconic nineteenth century brownstones appear, mixed with plain, box-like tenement buildings. The area is called "Heights" for a reason - the neighborhood is rife with hills and perfect lookout points for beautiful views of the city and the Hudson River, depending on how far west or east you happen to be. The neighborhood has seen its share of cultural diversity and then some, currently being home to a large Dominican population. Because of its assorted cultural past, the Heights has been home to many ethnic artists, performers and writers, making its locals proud to call themselves residents. There's lots to see historically, like the Morris-Jumel, the oldest standing house in Manhattan, not to mention the cultural boasting done at the Hispanic Society of America. The Heights also include Fort Tryon park, home to the medieval museum, the Cloisters.
The neighborhood ranges from charming to sketchy. Stretches like Cabrini Boulevard and 181st Street look nothing like the rest of Manhattan, with rich brownstones stretched out over steep hills which are dotted with boutiques, cafes and restaurants. However, parts of the Heights can also be dangerous, especially at night, so it's important to enjoy this area with caution, and look fully into the streets you're thinking of moving onto if that's the case.
The neighborhood ranges from charming to sketchy. Stretches like Cabrini Boulevard and 181st Street look nothing like the rest of Manhattan, with rich brownstones stretched out over steep hills which are dotted with boutiques, cafes and restaurants. However, parts of the Heights can also be dangerous, especially at night, so it's important to enjoy this area with caution, and look fully into the streets you're thinking of moving onto if that's the case.
Pros
- Cute stretches of shops and restaurants
- Rich history
- affordable rents
- Gorgeous architecture lines streets like Pine Hurst Avenue, Cabrini Boulevard etc
- Stunning views of the Hudson River
Cons
- Not much nightlife
- Can be dangerous
- far from downtown
- Crime rates continue to be a problem
Recommended for
- Professionals
- Singles
- Families with kids
- LGBT+
- Students
BS5
Washington Heights is not struggling to be safe. It is safer than Soho, the West Villiage, Midtown, Tribeca, etc...
http://www.dnainfo.com/new-york/crime-safety-report/ranking
http://www.dnainfo.com/new-york/crime-safety-report/ranking
2yrs+
lulup
Bullcrsp! just try walking the streets at night. Unless you're referring to Fort Washington and castle village area , but these are the inhabited by the super rich , with good security and they want to secede from the WaHi anyways. I'll show you some areas st night that will make your hair stand on end. And the cops in the heights won't answer as quickly as in midtown, or rich Soho and TriBeCa. Please! Check police statistics.
2yrs+
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Manhattan Valley
rating details
Just now
- Neighborly Spirit
- Safe & Sound
- Clean & Green
- Pest Free
- Peace & Quiet
- Eating Out
- Nightlife
- Parks & Recreation
- Shopping Options
- Gym & Fitness
- Internet Access
- Lack of Traffic
- Parking
- Cost of Living
- Public Transport
- Medical Facilities
- Schools
"Up and Coming Has Already Moved Up"
Manhattan Valley is experiencing that elusive period of perfection during which the area has been cleaned up and is thriving with business and beauty - but not enough people know about it yet to drive the prices up. While this area used to be considered dangerous and depressed - run by drugs and other illegal trades - Manhattan's will to gentrify has moved uptown, thanks largely to Columbia University. Now, you can find decent shopping, plenty of lovely restaurants and cleaned up conveniences like grocery stores, drug stores and coffee shops. There's even a Whole Foods, a surefire mark of gentrification. While this process has pushed the former residents up, it's also made room for the middle-class population who need to live in Manhattan but can't afford the rents further downtown.
Plus, Manhattan Valley is actually quite pretty. Buildings like those of Columbia's campus offer eighteenth century European architecture and now that the area is spiffed up, you can enjoy the grand, old fashioned beauty of the area. It doesn't hurt that the neighborhood also borders Central Park, so there's easy walking distance to serious greenery.
There's not much that another neighborhood resident would perhaps venture to Manhattan Valley to do, but for residents, there's no reason they have to leave the area to go to dinner or brunch anymore. And when they do want to venture downtown, it might be a bit far but there's plenty of convenient transportation.
Plus, Manhattan Valley is actually quite pretty. Buildings like those of Columbia's campus offer eighteenth century European architecture and now that the area is spiffed up, you can enjoy the grand, old fashioned beauty of the area. It doesn't hurt that the neighborhood also borders Central Park, so there's easy walking distance to serious greenery.
There's not much that another neighborhood resident would perhaps venture to Manhattan Valley to do, but for residents, there's no reason they have to leave the area to go to dinner or brunch anymore. And when they do want to venture downtown, it might be a bit far but there's plenty of convenient transportation.
Pros
- close to Columbia
- affordable rents
- Good, reasonable restaurants abound
- The Whole Foods outlet has revitalised grocery retail in the area
Cons
- Not a lot going on yet in the way of nightlife or shopping
- Pretty far from everything
Recommended for
- Professionals
- Singles
- Families with kids
- LGBT+
- Hipsters
- Students
Inwood
rating details
Just now
- Neighborly Spirit
- Safe & Sound
- Clean & Green
- Pest Free
- Peace & Quiet
- Eating Out
- Nightlife
- Parks & Recreation
- Shopping Options
- Internet Access
- Lack of Traffic
- Parking
- Cost of Living
- Public Transport
"A Leafy Getaway from City Life"
Consider Inwood a little day trip - it's like leaving the city without leaving the city. In fact, while a part of Manhattan, Inwood doesn't look much like Manhattan at all. It's like a little bit of suburban quiet mixed with stretches of straight-up nature, all a (long) subway ride away. Everywhere you look you'll find a hint of green. The architecture is pre-war, so it's easy to lose a few minutes gazing at elegant brownstones and old-world flourishes we don't bother to put on buildings anymore. There are two worthy parks right in the area: Fort Tryon Park and Inwood Hill Park. Fort Tryon Park is home to something that keeps visitors coming to Inwood: the Cloisters. You can easily get lost in time wandering the medieval world of this museum/landscape belong to the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Marvel at architecture, gardens and art from the Middle Ages - you'll forget you're in New York.
As far as Inwood Hill Park, this is way-uptown Manhattan's answer to Central Park. Smaller in size and a bit less to do, this park still boasts attractions like a Nature Center, not to mention much less tourists than the more famous park.
But with all that leafy and architectural goodness comes plenty of cons. There's not much else to do here other than enjoy said beauty, and the train ride down to civilization in the rest of Manhattan is quite the lengthy one. Plus, Inwood isn't all that safe at night, yet, since it's undoubtedly gone through its sketchy periods over the last few decades - and the issues haven't been completely ironed out yet. It's just an inevitable factor of any neighborhood that doesn't have a lot going on.
As far as Inwood Hill Park, this is way-uptown Manhattan's answer to Central Park. Smaller in size and a bit less to do, this park still boasts attractions like a Nature Center, not to mention much less tourists than the more famous park.
But with all that leafy and architectural goodness comes plenty of cons. There's not much else to do here other than enjoy said beauty, and the train ride down to civilization in the rest of Manhattan is quite the lengthy one. Plus, Inwood isn't all that safe at night, yet, since it's undoubtedly gone through its sketchy periods over the last few decades - and the issues haven't been completely ironed out yet. It's just an inevitable factor of any neighborhood that doesn't have a lot going on.
Pros
- Beautiful parks and scenery
- Affordable rents
Cons
- Far from everything
- Can be less than safe at night
- Nothing much to do
Recommended for
- Singles
- Families with kids
- Retirees
- Country Lovers
Meatpacking District
rating details
Just now
- Neighborly Spirit
- Safe & Sound
- Clean & Green
- Pest Free
- Peace & Quiet
- Eating Out
- Nightlife
- Parks & Recreation
- Shopping Options
- Gym & Fitness
- Internet Access
- Lack of Traffic
- Parking
- Cost of Living
- Public Transport
"Where You'll Find the Bridge and Tunnel Crowd"
Once upon a time, the Meatpacking District was a district of Manhattan that actually revolved around the meat industry. While there wasn't much reason to go there unless you were part of that industry, it was an interesting place - bustling with business, cobblestoned streets, an old-world warehouse environment. Because of the cool mix of quaint cobblestones and industrial background, however, when the meat industry began its move to cheaper locations, trendy clubs and designer stores began setting up camp. For a while, the area reigned coolest in Manhattan: the seedier subcultures that were used to populating the neighborhood clung on while beautiful people started moving in, shopping high end fashions and drinking high end drinks.
When the subcultures left, though, so did any coolness. While there are still stores belonging to some of fashion's greatest - ie, Alexander McQueen - there's little other reason to visit the Meatpacking District unless you want to drink with Bridge and Tunnelers or coked-out wannabe models. Everything is oh so very fabulous here, including long lines behind velvet ropes, $18 cocktails, mini dresses that barely exist and clubs that you'd only bother going to to say you went to. The nightlife isn't actually fun, because if you got caught having fun in one of these lounges, you wouldn't be cool anymore. There might be a cool fashion crowd in these parts, but they're probably hanging out where you can't get in, so you're stuck with the over-gelled Jersey population. Saving graces? The cobblestones are still cute, though you can find them in the West Village and Soho, the Highline is an awesome elevated park worth the visit, Pasti's, while now known by every tourist nationwhide, still serves up pretty delicious food in a Parisian setting and Chelsea Market is a high end take on a food court that is basically amazing, from Jaques Torres chocolates to fresh seafood.
When the subcultures left, though, so did any coolness. While there are still stores belonging to some of fashion's greatest - ie, Alexander McQueen - there's little other reason to visit the Meatpacking District unless you want to drink with Bridge and Tunnelers or coked-out wannabe models. Everything is oh so very fabulous here, including long lines behind velvet ropes, $18 cocktails, mini dresses that barely exist and clubs that you'd only bother going to to say you went to. The nightlife isn't actually fun, because if you got caught having fun in one of these lounges, you wouldn't be cool anymore. There might be a cool fashion crowd in these parts, but they're probably hanging out where you can't get in, so you're stuck with the over-gelled Jersey population. Saving graces? The cobblestones are still cute, though you can find them in the West Village and Soho, the Highline is an awesome elevated park worth the visit, Pasti's, while now known by every tourist nationwhide, still serves up pretty delicious food in a Parisian setting and Chelsea Market is a high end take on a food court that is basically amazing, from Jaques Torres chocolates to fresh seafood.
Pros
- cobblestone streets
- Boutique shopping
Cons
- expensive
- flashy area
- Awful people
- Nightclubs
- Wannabe Carrie Bradshaws
- Now attracts the 'bridge and tunnel' partycrowd
Recommended for
- Singles
- Tourists
- Trendy & Stylish
Stuyvesant Town
rating details
Just now
- Neighborly Spirit
- Safe & Sound
- Clean & Green
- Pest Free
- Peace & Quiet
- Eating Out
- Nightlife
- Parks & Recreation
- Shopping Options
- Gym & Fitness
- Internet Access
- Lack of Traffic
- Cost of Living
- Public Transport
- Medical Facilities
- Schools
"A Controversial Little Enclave"
Stuyvesant Town used to be heralded in New York as something truly hard to come by: affordable but comfortable housing right in the heart of Manhattan. It was never a particularly attractive little section of downtown’s east side – it’s uniform buildings resemble a prison – but it was known for a long waiting list to get into the fairly large, fairly lovely apartments. Ever since a buying war and contractual issues, however, Stuy Town has simply become known for financial issues and related controversies – this brought to light other rumors pertaining to the apartments not being quite so lovely.
But most residents have debunked these myths, leaving Stuy Town to, at the very least, maintain its reputation for apartments that are still affordable – if not nearly as much as they used to be. The unattractive little neighborhood has, over the years, installed conveniences in order to be self-sufficient, like gyms and grocery stores. Starbucks, delis and drug stores line the immediate perimeter. Stuy Town is all about convenience, though. It is a neighborhood in which to live and run necessary errands. Extras like restaurants, culture, nightlife and shopping lie in cooler neighborhoods like the East Village, which Stuy Town can at least boast being within walking distance.
But most residents have debunked these myths, leaving Stuy Town to, at the very least, maintain its reputation for apartments that are still affordable – if not nearly as much as they used to be. The unattractive little neighborhood has, over the years, installed conveniences in order to be self-sufficient, like gyms and grocery stores. Starbucks, delis and drug stores line the immediate perimeter. Stuy Town is all about convenience, though. It is a neighborhood in which to live and run necessary errands. Extras like restaurants, culture, nightlife and shopping lie in cooler neighborhoods like the East Village, which Stuy Town can at least boast being within walking distance.
Pros
- Conveniences are close
- spacious apartments
- quiet
- Good transport connections
Cons
- While close to more interesting neighborhoods, nothing to do here
- Scary at night
- ugly
Recommended for
- Professionals
- Singles
- Families with kids
- LGBT+
- Students
Lenox Hill
rating details
Just now
- Neighborly Spirit
- Safe & Sound
- Clean & Green
- Pest Free
- Peace & Quiet
- Eating Out
- Nightlife
- Parks & Recreation
- Shopping Options
- Gym & Fitness
- Internet Access
- Lack of Traffic
- Parking
- Cost of Living
- Public Transport
- Medical Facilities
- Schools
"Embrace Your Inner Gossip Girl"
Old-world money meets over-the-top shopping with European architecture as a backdrop in Lenox Hill, making it the perfect setting for the opulent life of “Gossip Girl” characters. Central Park’s green oasis is decorated with regal statues and accoutrements. Regal residences with marble floors, rich awnings and wrought-iron or golden doors opened and closed by doormen are lined with trees. Perfection runs rampant here. The sidewalks are filled with designer-bedecked teenagers and nannies pushing strollers. Along avenues like Madison, some of fashion’s greatest designers have set up shop for Ladies Who Lunch to spend what they will on the next big looks, while Lexington Avenue offers a better mix of high-end and affordable – well, affordable, relatively speaking. Lexington is your best bet commercially speaking, and where you’re most likely to find a diner, deli or bistros that don’t limit you to set courses. If it is the finer dining you’re seeking, try the neighborhood’s own Café Boulud, Caravaggio or, of course, the Carlyle Restaurant in the Carlyle Hotel – a beautiful institution that also features a rare book store, Café Carlyle and Bemelman’s Bar. Bars like Lexington Bar and Books maintain the aristocratic mood by offering an after-dinner cigar oasis. In short, Lenox Hill is one of the most upper-crust areas of the Upper East Side, but it doesn’t sacrifice its personality in the process.
Pros
- The Park
- Populated with wonderful cultural institutions -the Asia Society, the Whitney, the Frick Collection
- People watching
- Shopping
- The Lenox Hill Hospital
- upscale gorgeous restaurnats
Cons
- Expensive
- Dead at night
Recommended for
- Professionals
- Families with kids
- Retirees
- Tourists
- LGBT+
- Trendy & Stylish
Carnegie Hill
rating details
Just now
- Neighborly Spirit
- Safe & Sound
- Clean & Green
- Pest Free
- Peace & Quiet
- Eating Out
- Nightlife
- Parks & Recreation
- Shopping Options
- Gym & Fitness
- Internet Access
- Lack of Traffic
- Parking
- Cost of Living
- Public Transport
- Medical Facilities
- Schools
- Childcare
"Upper East Side Splendor"
Tree-lined streets of brownstones and intricately carved and decorate white stone mansions meet some of the nation’s most important museums in Carnegie Hill, an old-world aristocratic portion of the Upper East Side. Perhaps the most well-known and stimulating stretch of the neighborhood is Fifth Avenue, with lush, leafy Central Park to one side and grand architectural wonders like the Guggenheim art museum and the Cooper-Hewitt National Design Museum to the other. An avenue over, at Madison, grand residences that have been passed down through upper crust generations sit mixed with lofty boutiques. More magnificent, doormen-guarded residences lie to the east on Park Avenue, followed by more commercial strips on Park and Third Avenues. It is on these strips that you can find the conveniences of the area – from Duane Reades and diners to book shops and pet stores.
Carnegie Hill is best known for being an ideal (upper-class) family neighborhood, with some of the city’s best (expensive) schools, family-friendly (expensive) restaurants, the city’s biggest playground – Central Park, plenty of educational museums and large brownstones ready to accommodate parents, children and the nanny. But even for the middle-class folk who inhabit Third Avenue or who travel to Carnegie Hill from other neighborhoods, Carnegie Hill can satisfy from commercial to cultural interests.
Carnegie Hill is best known for being an ideal (upper-class) family neighborhood, with some of the city’s best (expensive) schools, family-friendly (expensive) restaurants, the city’s biggest playground – Central Park, plenty of educational museums and large brownstones ready to accommodate parents, children and the nanny. But even for the middle-class folk who inhabit Third Avenue or who travel to Carnegie Hill from other neighborhoods, Carnegie Hill can satisfy from commercial to cultural interests.
Pros
- Beautiful
- Gorgeous architecture
- major museums
- quiet
- Charming cafes and bistros
- great schools
- excellent restaurants
- Near tons of schools
Cons
- expensive
- Expensive cost of living
- No nightlife
Recommended for
- Professionals
- Families with kids
- Tourists
- LGBT+
Midtown
rating details
Just now
- Neighborly Spirit
- Safe & Sound
- Clean & Green
- Peace & Quiet
- Eating Out
- Nightlife
- Parks & Recreation
- Shopping Options
- Lack of Traffic
- Parking
- Public Transport
"Mall of America"
Times Square has become this strange little hub in the center of Manhattan that actual New Yorkers don’t ever visit. Unless, of course, they are unfortunate enough to be employed somewhere in the area. The pedestrian traffic that fills Times Square can be classified as tourists – Times Square means New York to them. It’s the first thing they want to see when they make it to Manhattan. That idea is very strange, because there’s nothing about Times Square that’s very New York at all. The high-wattage lights and blinking billboards are more Vegas than anything, and the stores and restaurants that fill the square are actually catered to tourists to make them feel more at home instead of giving them a taste of the city they’re visiting. These places are all the same places they can find in their malls – American Eagle, Forever 21, Toys R Us, TGI Fridays, Olive Garden. Shoving through crowds to shop chain stores and eat chain food – not anyone’s idea of New York. Where are the tiny restaurants crafting each plate to be a gourmet treat? Where are the cool bars with the fascinating mix of creative types? Where are the boutiques and vintage stores? They’re not here, so there’s no reason for a native to go here – and it’s unfortunate that tourists think there’s a reason to go here, too, when they could be out exploring other neighborhoods and really getting to know this city.
Pros
- central location
- Well connected by the NYC subway
Cons
- Noisy, crowded, dirty
- Chain restaurants
- everything's overpriced for tourists
- few authentic, non-tourist bars
- nothing but fast food joints
- You're the only New Yorker there
- Too crowded and busy at all times of the day
- Tourist infested
Recommended for
- Tourists
Lower East Side
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Just now
- Neighborly Spirit
- Safe & Sound
- Clean & Green
- Pest Free
- Peace & Quiet
- Eating Out
- Nightlife
- Parks & Recreation
- Shopping Options
- Gym & Fitness
- Internet Access
- Lack of Traffic
- Parking
- Cost of Living
- Public Transport
"Old Meets New New York"
The Lower East Side strikes the perfect balance between old, gritty New York and the new hipster-fueled gentrification. The hard-living, hard-drinking rock and roll vibe is still alive and well on the streets and in the bars and music venues, but you don’t have to look too far for a charming café or a vintage dress shop, either. For this reason, the LES is decidedly one of the “It” spots to hang out and/or live in New York. Streets like Ludlow and Orchard fuse punk rock and artsy attitudes to offer a little bit of something for everyone – everyone often meaning New York’s “bright young things.”
While scenesters broaden their beer horizons with a long brew menu at Spitzer’s Corner, big groups of friends catch a comedy show at Laugh Lounge. While bachelor and bachelorette parties ride the bull at Mason Dixon, hipsters throw back PBR at Welcome to the Johnson’s. While downtown fashionistas score the next big trend at Pixie Market, vintage lovers find the perfect pair of 1960’s Chanel kitten heels at Daha Vintage. While metalheads headbang at the Mercury Lounge, punks find their new favorite band while standing at a perfectly beer-soaked floor at Cake Shop. From free shows at popular bar Pianos to locals-only conversation at Local 138, the Lower East Side gives its too-cool natives special treatment – but is pretty nice to trendy visitors from other neighborhoods, too, with spots like Essex, Back Room and The Delancey. Day or night, the Lower East Side is a go-to destination for whatever you need or want to do, and the fact that is perfectly epitomizes New York’s spirit helps, too.
While scenesters broaden their beer horizons with a long brew menu at Spitzer’s Corner, big groups of friends catch a comedy show at Laugh Lounge. While bachelor and bachelorette parties ride the bull at Mason Dixon, hipsters throw back PBR at Welcome to the Johnson’s. While downtown fashionistas score the next big trend at Pixie Market, vintage lovers find the perfect pair of 1960’s Chanel kitten heels at Daha Vintage. While metalheads headbang at the Mercury Lounge, punks find their new favorite band while standing at a perfectly beer-soaked floor at Cake Shop. From free shows at popular bar Pianos to locals-only conversation at Local 138, the Lower East Side gives its too-cool natives special treatment – but is pretty nice to trendy visitors from other neighborhoods, too, with spots like Essex, Back Room and The Delancey. Day or night, the Lower East Side is a go-to destination for whatever you need or want to do, and the fact that is perfectly epitomizes New York’s spirit helps, too.
Pros
- great bar scene
- great music venues
- Great restaurants
- nice mix of old and new
- A wonderful sense of history
- Lots of energy
- The Essex Street Market
Cons
- far from subway
- some poor areas
Recommended for
- Professionals
- Singles
- Hipsters
- Students
- Trendy & Stylish
Murray Hill
rating details
Just now
- Neighborly Spirit
- Safe & Sound
- Clean & Green
- Pest Free
- Peace & Quiet
- Eating Out
- Nightlife
- Parks & Recreation
- Shopping Options
- Gym & Fitness
- Internet Access
- Lack of Traffic
- Parking
- Cost of Living
- Public Transport
- Medical Facilities
- Schools
"Frat Row"
With a few minor exceptions, Murray Hill is a neighborhood that could exist in any other city in the country. The area is inhabited with people from across the country who went to college in New York and then stayed on because they got jobs at Goldman Sachs and JP Morgan. It’s all corporate, all the time, with a severe lack of creative types or anyone else very interesting. The nightlife caters to the residents, with rows of generic sports bars serving up shot specials to speak to the inner frat boy and sorority girl of these post-collegiate paper pushers. There’s nothing charming or undeniably “New York” about Murray Hill, with, as stated, a few exceptions. For every few blocks of fake Irish pubs brimming with suits-gone-wild who are reliving their college glory days, there is a charming block with a café, a flower shop and a great, hidden gem bar. And two bars in Murray Hill are so great, they’re worth putting up with carbon-copy clientele: Ginger Man and Rattle ‘N Hum, both beer bars with astounding lists of craft brews. Ginger Man is luxurious but affordable, with a dark wood interior lit by candles and spotted with leather couches – that you’ll never get to sit on unless you show up on a Tuesday at noon. Rattle ‘N Hum is more relaxed, with a sports bar feel minus the sports – instead it’s bedecked with beer paraphernalia and is always having some awesome event involving a brewery from somewhere in the country making an appearance and taking over the taps. For eating, Curry Row is worth the trip, since any restaurant you stumble into will no doubt serve up some tasty, authentic Indian fare. Other than that, though, there’s not a whole lot going on in Murray Hill, unless you’re one of those nostalgic frat kids.
Pros
- middle class NYC rents
- reasonably quiet
- Good medical facilities
- Home to one of Manhattan's 'Little Indias'
- Close to Grand Central
Cons
- Filled with those reliving their college glory days
- boring
- Dead at night
- No personality
- doesn't know the meaning of the word trendy
Recommended for
- Professionals
- Singles
- Families with kids
- LGBT+
- Students
Turtle Bay
rating details
Just now
- Neighborly Spirit
- Safe & Sound
- Clean & Green
- Pest Free
- Peace & Quiet
- Eating Out
- Nightlife
- Parks & Recreation
- Shopping Options
- Gym & Fitness
- Internet Access
- Lack of Traffic
- Parking
- Cost of Living
- Public Transport
- Medical Facilities
"Street Closures Galore"
At first glance, Turtle Bay is an incredibly appealing place to live: rows of classic New York brownstones lined with trees make for picturesque streets. However, those streets are often closed, thanks to the neighborhood’s claim to fame, the United Nations. The same institution that causes residents much inconvenience also gives the area great prestige and a constant flow of buzz and excitement – that is, if you’re into the whole international politics thing. Even if you’re not, some visits made here by world leaders are too good to not take note of, especially when those leaders are on the controversial side. It might not be as exciting as movie star-studded neighborhoods like Soho, but there is undeniably something to be said for being able to keep an eye out for Prime Ministers, Presidents and Commanders.
The mix of restaurants is reliable – nothing too exciting or experimental, but solid enough to keep visiting diplomats happy. For a high end steak meal, visit Ben & Jack’s Steakhouse, which you know is good simply because it was founded by the owners of Peter Luger’s. Or, go low-key and kick back at the Beer Bar with, obviously, a beer menu to please and casual bar food. And don’t leave Turtle Bay without visiting Tudor City, a hidden gem of Manhattan set on a slope over First Avenue. Climb the steps to check out this little community and visit the park to spend time in this quaint little getaway.
The mix of restaurants is reliable – nothing too exciting or experimental, but solid enough to keep visiting diplomats happy. For a high end steak meal, visit Ben & Jack’s Steakhouse, which you know is good simply because it was founded by the owners of Peter Luger’s. Or, go low-key and kick back at the Beer Bar with, obviously, a beer menu to please and casual bar food. And don’t leave Turtle Bay without visiting Tudor City, a hidden gem of Manhattan set on a slope over First Avenue. Climb the steps to check out this little community and visit the park to spend time in this quaint little getaway.
Pros
- By the UN - exciting for political enthusiasts
- Pretty and pristine
- Charming Tudor City
Cons
- By the UN - not so exciting for people trying to drive these streets!
- Boring
- Not much shopping or nightlife
Recommended for
- Professionals
- Singles
- Families with kids
- LGBT+
Madison Square
rating details
Just now
- Neighborly Spirit
- Safe & Sound
- Clean & Green
- Pest Free
- Peace & Quiet
- Eating Out
- Nightlife
- Parks & Recreation
- Shopping Options
- Internet Access
- Lack of Traffic
- Parking
- Cost of Living
- Public Transport
"New Yorkers' Park"
While Central Park has become more like a veritable theme park with all of its attractions and constant bustle, New Yorkers look for parks that are more of a relaxing place to get away – to step off of the ever-busy sidewalks and escape the concrete, noisy traffic and rushing pedestrians. Madison Square Park is that kind of oasis, even if it has gotten more crowded in recent years thanks to the opening of one of New York’s most popular burger joints.
Without zoos and pools and castles, Madison Square Park is a simple, peaceful spot with green beauty all around. It is lush and relatively quiet, the perfect place to meditate, curl up with a book or have a catch-up lunch with friends. At night, the park and its surrounding area offer a romantic view, creating an Edgar Allen Poe-esque tableau with the trees framing an illuminated clock tower.
But let’s face it. The top reason most people flock to Madison Square Park is the aforementioned burger joint, Shake Shack. A line wraps halfway around the park on any given day – a line most deem completely worth it for the sought-after perfect burgers, fries and shakes. While Shake Shacks have popped up across the city since the original branch’s opening in the park, Madison Square’s location remains the most popular – what could be more perfect than chowing down on your expertly cooked fast food in a lush park plopped in the middle of the city?
Without zoos and pools and castles, Madison Square Park is a simple, peaceful spot with green beauty all around. It is lush and relatively quiet, the perfect place to meditate, curl up with a book or have a catch-up lunch with friends. At night, the park and its surrounding area offer a romantic view, creating an Edgar Allen Poe-esque tableau with the trees framing an illuminated clock tower.
But let’s face it. The top reason most people flock to Madison Square Park is the aforementioned burger joint, Shake Shack. A line wraps halfway around the park on any given day – a line most deem completely worth it for the sought-after perfect burgers, fries and shakes. While Shake Shacks have popped up across the city since the original branch’s opening in the park, Madison Square’s location remains the most popular – what could be more perfect than chowing down on your expertly cooked fast food in a lush park plopped in the middle of the city?
Pros
- Excellent shopping located nearby along Fifth avenue
- Shake Shack
- Trees
Cons
- Expensive rents
- Tourists
Recommended for
- Professionals
- Singles
- Families with kids
- Tourists
- LGBT+
- Trendy & Stylish
Flatiron
rating details
Just now
- Neighborly Spirit
- Safe & Sound
- Clean & Green
- Pest Free
- Peace & Quiet
- Eating Out
- Nightlife
- Parks & Recreation
- Shopping Options
- Gym & Fitness
- Internet Access
- Lack of Traffic
- Parking
- Cost of Living
- Public Transport
"A Commercial Hood with Lots to Offer"
It might not be the most welcoming neighborhood residentially – packed with industry and all things commercial – but for all it has to offer, Flatiron is a great area to visit. There’s plenty of trendy-but-affordable shopping along Fifth Avenue, like H&M, Anthropologie, Zara and LF, making it sort of the average shopper’s go-to spot for accessible fashion. And you can’t mention Flatiron without acknowledging ABC Carpet and Home, New Yorkers’ favorite wonderland for all things home-related. As you’re making your way through the streets and juggling your shopping bags, you’ll find plenty of eye candy – in the architecture, that is. Make sure to take a good look at the namesake Flatiron Building and the New York Life building, examples of New York’s old-fashioned, grand architecture that was cutting edge in its inception. These buildings stand out in an otherwise commercial region.
You can pop into the area’s unpretentious-but-luxurious bars, like champagne and wine spot, Flute. Or, there’s Ryehouse, a slightly more upscale take on the hipster scene. Flatiron has a strong restaurant scene for a small area – A Voce is renowned for a high-end Italian meal while Kellari Parea serves up delectable Greek and Live Bait serves as a vacation-like joint to kick back with beer and seafood. Whatever you’re in the mood for when it comes to shopping, eating or drinking, Flatiron can offer it up quickly and conveniently.
You can pop into the area’s unpretentious-but-luxurious bars, like champagne and wine spot, Flute. Or, there’s Ryehouse, a slightly more upscale take on the hipster scene. Flatiron has a strong restaurant scene for a small area – A Voce is renowned for a high-end Italian meal while Kellari Parea serves up delectable Greek and Live Bait serves as a vacation-like joint to kick back with beer and seafood. Whatever you’re in the mood for when it comes to shopping, eating or drinking, Flatiron can offer it up quickly and conveniently.
Pros
- Shopping
- central location
- close to major transport
- Great cheap restaurants
- Home to the distinctive Flatiron building, a veritable landmark of NYC
- Proximity to Union Square and other exciting neighborhoods
- Easy to get to/from
Cons
- expensive
- tourist mobs
- Mostly a commercial neighborhood
Recommended for
- Professionals
- Singles
- Families with kids
- Retirees
- Tourists
- LGBT+
- Students
- Trendy & Stylish
Gramercy Park
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Just now
- Neighborly Spirit
- Safe & Sound
- Clean & Green
- Peace & Quiet
- Eating Out
- Nightlife
- Parks & Recreation
- Shopping Options
- Gym & Fitness
- Internet Access
- Lack of Traffic
- Parking
- Cost of Living
- Public Transport
- Schools
"New York’s “Secret Garden”"
If you’re craving a European getaway, but don’t have the funds or the time, take a walk over to Gramercy Park. The brownstones and white stone buildings with embellished and carved staircases behold the splendor of old-world European aristocracy. At night, lanterns flicker around the locked park – an oasis that can only be entered by residents with a key, but even to us plebeians offers the breathtaking site of lush leafy greens growing inside wrought iron gates. Not only will Gramercy Park take you overseas, it will take you back in time. As you stroll the strictly residential streets and gaze into some of New York’s only buildings with courtyards in front, you feel like a Dickensian character daydreaming about high society on your way home through London streets.
For shopping and eating, just head a block or two away from the park area in any direction. You’ll find vintage stores, sushi spots and cozy cafes. The Gramercy Park Hotel is both rich in history and a hotspot for drinks – especially celebrity favorite, Rose Bar. And when the peace and quiet of the area gets to be a bit dull, the area does feature Irving Place, which offers up a decent amount of nightlife and even a theater that is always housing a new, exciting play – not to mention the newly named Fillmore, formerly Irving Plaza, a venue that mostly supports both emerging and established rock acts. After a dose of noise, you can always retreat back to the magical streets surrounding the park.
For shopping and eating, just head a block or two away from the park area in any direction. You’ll find vintage stores, sushi spots and cozy cafes. The Gramercy Park Hotel is both rich in history and a hotspot for drinks – especially celebrity favorite, Rose Bar. And when the peace and quiet of the area gets to be a bit dull, the area does feature Irving Place, which offers up a decent amount of nightlife and even a theater that is always housing a new, exciting play – not to mention the newly named Fillmore, formerly Irving Plaza, a venue that mostly supports both emerging and established rock acts. After a dose of noise, you can always retreat back to the magical streets surrounding the park.
Pros
- Quiet
- Beautiful, Scenic
- Prestigious
Cons
- Boring
- Expensive
Recommended for
- Professionals
- Singles
- Families with kids
- Retirees
- Tourists
- LGBT+
- Trendy & Stylish
Little Italy
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Just now
- Neighborly Spirit
- Safe & Sound
- Clean & Green
- Peace & Quiet
- Eating Out
- Nightlife
- Parks & Recreation
- Shopping Options
- Lack of Traffic
- Parking
- Cost of Living
- Public Transport
"A Tourist-Driven Theme Park of Italian Dining"
Generations ago, when immigration from Italy to New York was still a strong force, it’s clear that Little Italy was an endearing, bustling area full of authentic Italian fare, lively conversation and that neighborhood feel. Not so much now. As the waves of immigrants began to die down, the little region began to focus on one thing: capitalizing on the wave of tourists coming to dine at the restaurants. The neighborhood soon became one catering to tourists, and the whole native, locals-only vibe completely faded away. Many of the restaurants aren’t even owned by Italians anymore. It’s hard to find a restaurant that isn’t serving up second-rate, generic fare at marked up prices. A family visiting New York might think this is great food at reasonable prices – who can blame them, since they probably don’t have anything like this at home – but it makes no sense for a New Yorker to shove his or her way through visiting crowds to eat so-so food for higher prices. New York is brimming with better restaurants anywhere and everywhere. And when the San Gennaro festival takes over the streets, stay away. The streets are so crowded you can’t move, let alone actually get to one of the booths for a mediocre cannoli.
When it comes down to it, Little Italy has passed its peak and has been reduced to a strip of non-authentic tourist-trap restaurants. The surrounding neighborhoods like Soho and Nolita have started taking over, which isn’t a bad thing since today those areas have a lot more going on for them.
When it comes down to it, Little Italy has passed its peak and has been reduced to a strip of non-authentic tourist-trap restaurants. The surrounding neighborhoods like Soho and Nolita have started taking over, which isn’t a bad thing since today those areas have a lot more going on for them.
Pros
- Cute streets
- affordable rents
- You won't go hungry
Cons
- noisy at all times of the day and night
- pushy, in your face restaurant folk who try to lure unsuspecting tourists into their establishments
- Crowded
- everything's overpriced for tourists
- Dirty
Recommended for
- Families with kids
- Tourists
Financial District
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Just now
- Neighborly Spirit
- Safe & Sound
- Clean & Green
- Pest Free
- Peace & Quiet
- Eating Out
- Nightlife
- Parks & Recreation
- Shopping Options
- Gym & Fitness
- Internet Access
- Lack of Traffic
- Parking
- Cost of Living
- Public Transport
- Medical Facilities
- Schools
"The 9-to-5 Neighborhood"
The majority of the Financial District’s traffic is made up of people who work there – and people who leave the area come 5PM, 6PM – or whatever time their workday is done. For that reason, the neighborhood has never been one known for great nightlife, or even for great shopping or restaurants. But this reputation has allowed the region to foster an incredibly cool, yet laid-back, small-town atmosphere.
While industry-laden streets like Wall Street and Water Street go from bustling with suits to deserted come nighttime, charming streets like Stone Street, John Street and Broad Street feature old New York atmosphere with stone-paved streets, outdoor taverns and cafés, and the occasional cozy park. Of the more desolate streets, you can find shopping megastore Century 21 – loaded with tourists, but also loaded with discount designer wares. And when in need of something to do for the weekend, you can head down to the Financial District for a ride on the Staten Island Ferry or to wander through Trinity Church – established in 1697, it’s New York’s oldest parish. And when you want to hole up in a neighborhood joint with good food and good drinks, try Stone Street Tavern – or indulge your foodie side at Brasserie Les Halles Downtown. For now, the neighborhood’s genius lies in the fact that no one seems to know how charming the area can be, and that there’s more to do there than work. So take advantage of the quiet now while you still can.
While industry-laden streets like Wall Street and Water Street go from bustling with suits to deserted come nighttime, charming streets like Stone Street, John Street and Broad Street feature old New York atmosphere with stone-paved streets, outdoor taverns and cafés, and the occasional cozy park. Of the more desolate streets, you can find shopping megastore Century 21 – loaded with tourists, but also loaded with discount designer wares. And when in need of something to do for the weekend, you can head down to the Financial District for a ride on the Staten Island Ferry or to wander through Trinity Church – established in 1697, it’s New York’s oldest parish. And when you want to hole up in a neighborhood joint with good food and good drinks, try Stone Street Tavern – or indulge your foodie side at Brasserie Les Halles Downtown. For now, the neighborhood’s genius lies in the fact that no one seems to know how charming the area can be, and that there’s more to do there than work. So take advantage of the quiet now while you still can.
Pros
- Many streets are undiscovered by tourists, still charming and quiet
- Some relatively unknown good restaurants and pubs
- Affordable rents
Cons
- Mostly commercial/business
- No nightlife
- Boring
Recommended for
- Professionals
- Singles
- LGBT+
- Students
Civic Center
rating details
Just now
- Neighborly Spirit
- Safe & Sound
- Clean & Green
- Peace & Quiet
- Eating Out
- Nightlife
- Parks & Recreation
- Shopping Options
- Internet Access
- Lack of Traffic
- Parking
- Cost of Living
"Jury Duty and Breathtaking Views"
There’s not a whole lot to do in the tiny neighborhood known as Civic Center, even if it is the hub of the city’s court system. New Yorkers associate the area with dreaded chores like jury duty, court dates, fighting parking tickets, etc. If you’ve never visited the area, it’s worth a trip there once, if just to see the brains behind Manhattan – here you’ll see City Hall and City Hall Park, a small but lush park with views of the surrounding legal buildings. The architecture is more old world and more attractive than that of buildings, say, midtown, but not as ornate and intriguing as architecture in areas like Sutton Place. In other words, you wouldn’t be missing anything if you didn’t take it in, but if you’re there anyway, you might as well.
The real attraction is South Street Seaport, which has pros and cons that weigh out to make it a place you perhaps visit once a year, on a particularly nice summer day. The port is always packed to the gills with tourists, and its stores cater to them instead of New Yorkers, featuring the stores they can find in their Michigan and Kentucky malls. But it’s undeniable that you can have yourself a lovely warm-weather day here, strolling the cobblestone streets, enjoying the views of boats and sitting down to relax before the sights of the Brooklyn Bridge and, of course, Brooklyn itself. You can catch a boat ride here, and you can cool off in the little mall – though you won’t want to do much shopping here. The strip is lined with decent but pricey seafood restaurants, but nothing in the way of nightlife. You can catch a food market along the street bordering the port, serving up the best culinary options in the area, like fresh-baked baklava, tea-flavored popsicles, gourmet pickles and more. It might be crowded and it might be touristy, but getting to be waterside for the day is a refreshing little break from daily city life.
The real attraction is South Street Seaport, which has pros and cons that weigh out to make it a place you perhaps visit once a year, on a particularly nice summer day. The port is always packed to the gills with tourists, and its stores cater to them instead of New Yorkers, featuring the stores they can find in their Michigan and Kentucky malls. But it’s undeniable that you can have yourself a lovely warm-weather day here, strolling the cobblestone streets, enjoying the views of boats and sitting down to relax before the sights of the Brooklyn Bridge and, of course, Brooklyn itself. You can catch a boat ride here, and you can cool off in the little mall – though you won’t want to do much shopping here. The strip is lined with decent but pricey seafood restaurants, but nothing in the way of nightlife. You can catch a food market along the street bordering the port, serving up the best culinary options in the area, like fresh-baked baklava, tea-flavored popsicles, gourmet pickles and more. It might be crowded and it might be touristy, but getting to be waterside for the day is a refreshing little break from daily city life.
Pros
- affordable rents
- South Street Seaport
Cons
- dead at night
- Few restaurants outside of the South Street Seaport area
- boring
Recommended for
- Professionals
- Singles
- Families with kids
- Tourists
- LGBT+
- Students
Sutton Place
rating details
Just now
- Neighborly Spirit
- Safe & Sound
- Clean & Green
- Pest Free
- Peace & Quiet
- Eating Out
- Nightlife
- Parks & Recreation
- Shopping Options
- Internet Access
- Lack of Traffic
- Parking
- Cost of Living
- Public Transport
"At Least the Views are Free"
It’s all about the scenery on Sutton Place. Which is a good thing, since scenery is the only thing here that’s free, compared to the astronomically priced real estate only afforded by the most powerful, most famous and most financially endowed. Sutton Place isn’t a neighborhood you’ll add to your list of places to frequent – you won’t be able to spend Saturdays every now and then window shopping, there won’t be a strip of bars you’ll consider a go-to option when nothing else is going on on a Friday night. But for one Saturday (or whatever day you choose), it’s definitely worth the visit. Take your time strolling as you ogle the massive, prestigious buildings – and keep your eyes peeled for New York heavyweights that live here, like Stephen Sondheim. Pay special attention to the beautiful architecture. When you tire of buildings, you can check out one of Sutton Place’s parks, situated near the FDR for views of the river and Roosevelt Island. Often-empty sidewalks and park benches allow you the time to truly soak in this illustrious setting, and to get a taste of how “the other half” lives in Manhattan.
There’s not much to do here, unless you venture just a few blocks south to sights like the United Nations. Basically, Sutton Place is tucked away for those who want to live in Manhattan without having to mingle with Manhattan – until their town cars and whisk them away to fabulous restaurants and nightlife downtown or uptown. The magic of Sutton Place is the fact that it doesn’t look like the rest of the city, with European architecture, a hint of green and the kind of money that comes with inheritance – wealth, real estate and staffs of servants passed down through the generations. Think of it as Gatsby’s New York.
There’s not much to do here, unless you venture just a few blocks south to sights like the United Nations. Basically, Sutton Place is tucked away for those who want to live in Manhattan without having to mingle with Manhattan – until their town cars and whisk them away to fabulous restaurants and nightlife downtown or uptown. The magic of Sutton Place is the fact that it doesn’t look like the rest of the city, with European architecture, a hint of green and the kind of money that comes with inheritance – wealth, real estate and staffs of servants passed down through the generations. Think of it as Gatsby’s New York.
Pros
- Beautiful
- Quiet
- Gorgeous
- Luxurious
Cons
- Stuffy
- Very very expensive
- Hard to get to by public transportation (but to live here, you'd probably have a car and driver)
- Not much nightlife
- The neighborhood doesnt have any good schools
Recommended for
- Professionals
- Singles
- Families with kids
- Retirees
Kips Bay
rating details
Just now
- Neighborly Spirit
- Safe & Sound
- Clean & Green
- Pest Free
- Peace & Quiet
- Eating Out
- Nightlife
- Parks & Recreation
- Shopping Options
- Gym & Fitness
- Internet Access
- Lack of Traffic
- Parking
- Cost of Living
- Public Transport
- Medical Facilities
- Schools
"Nice Place to Live but You Wouldn’t Want to Visit"
Just east of Manhattan’s own “frat row” (aka, Murray Hill), Kips Bay is all about convenience. The neighborhood consists of high rises, medical facilities, grocery stores, drugstores and, yes, a mall. Basically, it’s easy to live there and just as easy to run errands there. You need medicine or food late at night? No problem. But if it’s shopping, nightlife, or a culinary treat you seek, start walking south. Or north, or west. Anywhere else. Because, like everything else about Kips Bay, the location is convenient. Because you want to be able to walk to another neighborhood to do just about anything interesting.
Of course, there is the movie theater. One of the largest and cleanest in the city, the Loews Theater is one thing people actually go to Kips Bay for. It’s attached to a strip mall, which is (word of the day!) convenient if you have time to kill before your movie starts. Otherwise, there’s nothing in this little strip mall that isn’t in another, better neighborhood anyway. This neighborhood is really best suited for those in the medical profession or those are studying to be. NYU’s medical school is here, Bellevue is here, etc. So, it’s a nice and easy, walking commute for those who notoriously work/study all hours of the day and night. If you’ve got time to have a life, though, you won’t want to have one here.
Of course, there is the movie theater. One of the largest and cleanest in the city, the Loews Theater is one thing people actually go to Kips Bay for. It’s attached to a strip mall, which is (word of the day!) convenient if you have time to kill before your movie starts. Otherwise, there’s nothing in this little strip mall that isn’t in another, better neighborhood anyway. This neighborhood is really best suited for those in the medical profession or those are studying to be. NYU’s medical school is here, Bellevue is here, etc. So, it’s a nice and easy, walking commute for those who notoriously work/study all hours of the day and night. If you’ve got time to have a life, though, you won’t want to have one here.
Pros
- Quiet
- Convenient
Cons
- Boring
- Generic
Recommended for
- Professionals
- Singles
- Families with kids
- LGBT+
- Students
Garment District
rating details
Just now
- Neighborly Spirit
- Safe & Sound
- Clean & Green
- Pest Free
- Peace & Quiet
- Eating Out
- Nightlife
- Parks & Recreation
- Shopping Options
- Lack of Traffic
- Parking
- Cost of Living
- Public Transport
"Noisy, Crowded – Get In, Get Out"
Crowded, cramped, chaotic. A million different languages spoken at break-neck speed all around you, people shoving fliers at you while others shove their stores’ items in your face as you pass while shouting a three-second sales pitch. The only reason you would ever need or want to be in the Garment District is if you work there or if you need supplies for making clothes. In other words, this is a neighborhood full of union sewers, fashion industry types and FIT and Parsons students. Many of the side streets offer up little more than studios, warehouse-type spaces and workrooms. But then there are the side streets – 39th between Eighth and Ninth Avenues, for example – that are a long row of wholesale stores hawking fabric, buttons, trims and sewing supplies. Some of the fabric stores are sort of magical, if you’re into that kind of thing. (But then if you weren’t, why would you be in the Garment District?) You can get lost in Mood, a fabric store frequented by the pros (you’ll recognize it from seasons of Project Runway), where aisle after aisle is jam-packed with all things embroidered, patterned, beaded and brocaded. M& J Trims is a hot-pink-painted wonderland of glitzy embellishments, one-of-a-kind buttons and decadent trim with lace, fringe, tassels and more. Then there are the dirty, gray stores where you get in, get your needles and pin cushions and get out.
It doesn’t help that the Garment District is bordered by Times Square and includes Herald Square – two of the most bustling tourist spots in the city. While Macy’s might have what you need for family and friends at Christmas and 34th Street in general is as convenient as an outdoor strip mall can be, the general result is overcrowding. With heavy shopping traffic at one side and heavy photo-taking traffic at the other, the streets of this neighborhood stay packed. Because most of the Garment District crowd are there to work, the food is fast, cheap (well, relatively) and easy. Think Pax and Bread Market – soups, sandwiches and salads that are ready to go. That’s pretty much the modus operandus in these parts: fast, efficient, affordable. Nothing much to see or do in the way of fun or culture, no extras, no frills – unless you’re looking for actual frills. Those you’ll find wholesale here.
It doesn’t help that the Garment District is bordered by Times Square and includes Herald Square – two of the most bustling tourist spots in the city. While Macy’s might have what you need for family and friends at Christmas and 34th Street in general is as convenient as an outdoor strip mall can be, the general result is overcrowding. With heavy shopping traffic at one side and heavy photo-taking traffic at the other, the streets of this neighborhood stay packed. Because most of the Garment District crowd are there to work, the food is fast, cheap (well, relatively) and easy. Think Pax and Bread Market – soups, sandwiches and salads that are ready to go. That’s pretty much the modus operandus in these parts: fast, efficient, affordable. Nothing much to see or do in the way of fun or culture, no extras, no frills – unless you’re looking for actual frills. Those you’ll find wholesale here.
Pros
- THE place for anyone who in the clothesmaking/design fields
- Great for wholesale
- central to everything
Cons
- Dangerous at night
- Dirty
- Nothing to do outside of the clothing industry
- crime rates
- dingy apartments
- Crowded
- dead at night
- Ugly
- impersonal place
- overrun by tourists
Recommended for
- Tourists
Central Park
rating details
Just now
- Neighborly Spirit
- Safe & Sound
- Clean & Green
- Pest Free
- Peace & Quiet
- Eating Out
- Nightlife
- Parks & Recreation
- Shopping Options
- Internet Access
- Parking
- Cost of Living
- Public Transport
"An – Albeit Inconvenient – Oasis in the City"
The area surrounding Central Park is some of the world’s most expensive real estate – and there’s a reason. While the rest of us have views of…well, each other really, being cramped building-to-building with a window that leads either to our neighbor’s or the street, those who have settled around the park have a very rare New York view of lush trees, sprawling fields and even lakes and castle-like structures.
Central Park is overwhelmingly large, which can be the best thing or the worst thing depending on what your day involves. If you’re on the Upper East Side and you need to be on the Upper West Side in half an hour, it’s the worst. With no subways cutting across the park, you’re left with a could-be-dreadful cross-town bus, could-be-astronomically-expensive cab, or a could-be-insanely-inconvenient subway transfer. But if you’ve got a day to while away pretending you’ve taken a vacation to the countryside, the park’s size will not disappoint. To be accurate, it will leave you with too much to do in just a day. Indulge your Beatles-mania at Strawberry Fields. Take in the views from the high-up look-out points of the beautiful Belvedere Castle, and during the summer, catch a Shakespeare play for free at the nearby Delacorte Theater. Geek out with history at the Blockhouse, a fort from the War of 1812. Embrace your inner child or take your own children to the Central Park Zoo, the Cherry Hill Carousel, or to any of the park’s numerous playgrounds. Sail toy boats near the Loeb Boathouse – or enjoy a delicious meal there. Take a break near the Bethesda Fountain, used over and over again as a backdrop in movies. Spot swimming turtles at Turtle Pond, or stroll beautiful gardens like the Shakespeare Gardens or the Victorian Gardens. If it’s activity more than attraction you want, rent bicycles to get around faster, hike the trails, swim at the public pool or take it easy with a book on Sheep Meadow. There’s literally something for everyone, and all you have to do to end your vacation is step back out onto Fifth Avenue or Central Park West.
Central Park is overwhelmingly large, which can be the best thing or the worst thing depending on what your day involves. If you’re on the Upper East Side and you need to be on the Upper West Side in half an hour, it’s the worst. With no subways cutting across the park, you’re left with a could-be-dreadful cross-town bus, could-be-astronomically-expensive cab, or a could-be-insanely-inconvenient subway transfer. But if you’ve got a day to while away pretending you’ve taken a vacation to the countryside, the park’s size will not disappoint. To be accurate, it will leave you with too much to do in just a day. Indulge your Beatles-mania at Strawberry Fields. Take in the views from the high-up look-out points of the beautiful Belvedere Castle, and during the summer, catch a Shakespeare play for free at the nearby Delacorte Theater. Geek out with history at the Blockhouse, a fort from the War of 1812. Embrace your inner child or take your own children to the Central Park Zoo, the Cherry Hill Carousel, or to any of the park’s numerous playgrounds. Sail toy boats near the Loeb Boathouse – or enjoy a delicious meal there. Take a break near the Bethesda Fountain, used over and over again as a backdrop in movies. Spot swimming turtles at Turtle Pond, or stroll beautiful gardens like the Shakespeare Gardens or the Victorian Gardens. If it’s activity more than attraction you want, rent bicycles to get around faster, hike the trails, swim at the public pool or take it easy with a book on Sheep Meadow. There’s literally something for everyone, and all you have to do to end your vacation is step back out onto Fifth Avenue or Central Park West.
Pros
- Beautiful
- Trees
- central to everything
- classy neighborhood
- The Central Park area of New York City is the main verdant spot in the concrete jungle of Manhattan
- central location
- close to major transport
Cons
- dead at night
- crime rates
- The area around Central Park is not very well illuminated at night and can seem a bit spooky
- neighborhood isn't what you'd call hip or young
- No street parking near the park if you need to park you have to put your vehicle in a parking lot
- surrounding restaurants tend to be mediocre yet expensive
- Extremely expensive neighborhood
- limited dining
Recommended for
- Professionals
- Singles
- Families with kids
- Retirees
- Tourists
- LGBT+
- Students
- Country Lovers
Manhattan
rating details
Just now
- Neighborly Spirit
- Safe & Sound
- Clean & Green
- Pest Free
- Peace & Quiet
- Eating Out
- Nightlife
- Parks & Recreation
- Shopping Options
- Gym & Fitness
- Internet Access
- Lack of Traffic
- Parking
- Cost of Living
- Public Transport
- Medical Facilities
- Schools
"The Reason New York is Allowed to be Stuck Up"
While tourists feel compelled to flock to Times Square the second they step foot in New York, the center of New York culture really lies just a bit north, and just a bit east. A walk up Fifth Avenue would reveal sprawling rows of the world’s most prestigious stores, all perfectly pristine and packed with designers’ beautiful new wares. Choose between designer boutiques or revered department stores like Saks Fifth Avenue and Bergdorf Goodman. For even more exclusive fashion meccas, head one avenue east to Madison for the likes of Gucci and Chloé. If it’s a better mix of affordable and luxurious you’re looking for, it’s over to Lexington for you to pop into Bloomingdale’s.
The Upper East Side boasts the beautiful sights of old-world money – the grandiose architecture of the Plaza and the Dakota, world consulates, libraries and architecture built with nineteenth century European architecture in mind, marble structures and statues galore. You can get lost in Central Park and all of its diverse views, or take in art collections at the Guggenheim, the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Frick Collection or the Whitney Museum of Art. There are plenty of both seasonal and year-round flea markets to check out, offering better items than most fleas thanks to the higher quality of cast-offs from the UES’ wealthy inhabitants. The UES seems to be too busy being the capital of culture and shopping to handle being the culinary capital, too – but gems like Café Boulud, The Mark and Il Vagabondo do their part to keep the neighborhood’s restaurant reputation strong enough. Plus, being home to one of New York’s most beloved – and most expensive – restaurants, Le Cirque, helps. You might not be able to afford to live on the Upper East Side, but if you do some saving, you could have a really wonderful, really prestigious day there.
The Upper East Side boasts the beautiful sights of old-world money – the grandiose architecture of the Plaza and the Dakota, world consulates, libraries and architecture built with nineteenth century European architecture in mind, marble structures and statues galore. You can get lost in Central Park and all of its diverse views, or take in art collections at the Guggenheim, the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Frick Collection or the Whitney Museum of Art. There are plenty of both seasonal and year-round flea markets to check out, offering better items than most fleas thanks to the higher quality of cast-offs from the UES’ wealthy inhabitants. The UES seems to be too busy being the capital of culture and shopping to handle being the culinary capital, too – but gems like Café Boulud, The Mark and Il Vagabondo do their part to keep the neighborhood’s restaurant reputation strong enough. Plus, being home to one of New York’s most beloved – and most expensive – restaurants, Le Cirque, helps. You might not be able to afford to live on the Upper East Side, but if you do some saving, you could have a really wonderful, really prestigious day there.
Recommended for
- Professionals
- Singles
- Families with kids
- Retirees
- Tourists
- LGBT+
- Hipsters
- Students
- Trendy & Stylish
Yorkville
rating details
Just now
- Neighborly Spirit
- Safe & Sound
- Clean & Green
- Pest Free
- Peace & Quiet
- Eating Out
- Nightlife
- Parks & Recreation
- Shopping Options
- Gym & Fitness
- Internet Access
- Lack of Traffic
- Parking
- Cost of Living
- Public Transport
- Medical Facilities
- Schools
"The “Every Man”’s Upper East Side."
If you spend your time strolling through Central Park, Museum Mile and the shops of Madison Avenue dreaming of a lifetime where you’d be able to live near all of this (and still afford to do things like eat and have electricity), then you’ll be happy to discover Yorkville. A hop, skip and jump away from the Gossip Girls and Ladies Who Lunch, Yorkville only asks that you go a little further east in exchange for affordable apartments, laid-back pubs and an all-around easygoing attitude.
In fact, if you’re suburban at heart but want to be in Manhattan, Yorkville strikes the perfect balance between the two: boasting the nearby pulse of Manhattan’s culture next to Average Joe sports bars, families pushing strollers and walking dogs and all of those chain stores you’re used to seeing in the mall wherever you’re from. Take in stunning views of the East River while your pup plays nicely with others at Carl Schulz Park, get your errands done on 86th Street between First and Lexington Avenues at places like P.C. Richards, Barnes & Noble and Victoria’s Secret and make out-of-town friends feel at home with appetizers at Pizzeria Uno. When you’re ready to spread your city wings, leave all the suburban hubs behind by sampling the craft beer menu at David Copperfield’s, digging into spicy fish tacos at Cascabel Taqueria while taking in its Lucha Libre theme, being whisked away to Germany at the authentic, passed-through-the-generations restaurants and sifting through hidden treasures at thrift stores on Third Avenue. When you’re ready for a day of taking in Manhattan’s splendor, make the walk from Yorkville to Madison and Fifth Avenues, where gems like Central Park and the Guggenheim await you. It’s the best of all worlds: affordable living, the comforts of home, the quirks of only Manhattan, and culture at your fingertips.
In fact, if you’re suburban at heart but want to be in Manhattan, Yorkville strikes the perfect balance between the two: boasting the nearby pulse of Manhattan’s culture next to Average Joe sports bars, families pushing strollers and walking dogs and all of those chain stores you’re used to seeing in the mall wherever you’re from. Take in stunning views of the East River while your pup plays nicely with others at Carl Schulz Park, get your errands done on 86th Street between First and Lexington Avenues at places like P.C. Richards, Barnes & Noble and Victoria’s Secret and make out-of-town friends feel at home with appetizers at Pizzeria Uno. When you’re ready to spread your city wings, leave all the suburban hubs behind by sampling the craft beer menu at David Copperfield’s, digging into spicy fish tacos at Cascabel Taqueria while taking in its Lucha Libre theme, being whisked away to Germany at the authentic, passed-through-the-generations restaurants and sifting through hidden treasures at thrift stores on Third Avenue. When you’re ready for a day of taking in Manhattan’s splendor, make the walk from Yorkville to Madison and Fifth Avenues, where gems like Central Park and the Guggenheim await you. It’s the best of all worlds: affordable living, the comforts of home, the quirks of only Manhattan, and culture at your fingertips.
Pros
- Convenient
- Affordable
- Lots to do but quiet
Cons
- Not much nightlife
- 86th Street is a commercial mess
- Only one subway line on Lexington Ave
Recommended for
- Professionals
- Singles
- Families with kids
- Students
