A Guide to Manhattan Neighborhoods Part 2
Manhattan is comprised of many smaller neighborhoods, and each almost feels like its own city. It can be a little confusing to navigate these neighborhoods, so we’ve put together a guide to help, whether you are thinking of moving to NYC, or just visiting NYC. We are starting at the southern tip of Manhattan and working north. Please see Part 1 for Battery Park through SoHo.
Greenwich Village
Perhaps no Manhattan neighborhood boast as much history and lore as Greenwich Village. For years, Greenwich Village is where those who march to the beat of their own drum go to find community. To walk along its twisty turny streets is to walk in the footsteps of some of the greatest minds who shaped their generations. Edgar Allan Poe came here to write “The Raven” and “The Cask of Amontillado” Louisa May Alcott wrote the final chapter of “Little Women” on MacDougal street. Painters such as Jackson Pollack, William DeKoonig called Greenwich Village their home. Musicians such as Peter, Paul and Mary, Jimmy Hendrix, Bob Dyland, and even Lady Gaga got their starts in tiny-but-mighty music venues in Greenwich Village.
Greenwich Village is also home to fantastic shopping. Want vintage records? Visit Bleecker Street records. For food, Greenwich Village has something for everything, but an absolute must is to stop of John’s of Bleecker for what is arguably the best tradition New York City style pizza in Manhattan. Prefere a slice? Go to Joe’s. Joe’s is also featured in the “Spider-Man” movies.
Chelsea
Chelsea is a new neighborhood in terms of being on people’s tourist radars. For years this neighborhood flew under said radar, and was mostly known for shipping, storage, and out-of-service elevated railroads. Then, in 2009, one of the abandoned railroads was transformed into a park, elevated 30 feet above the pedestrian space below. This park became known as The High Line. This architectural marvel became an inspiration for how to re-utilize spaces across the world. This trend continued with the design of spaces such as Chelsea Market, Pier 57, and even Little Island.
Continue further inland in Chelsea, and you’ll get to the Flatiron Building. Yes, true New Yorkers would probably consider The Flatiron District to be its own neighborhood, but it’s also an extension of Chelsea. Here you have Madison Square Park, which has a delightful dog run. It was also the site of the very first Madison Square Garden! If you’re looking for something yummy to eat, check out the New York City flagship EATALY location.
34th Street
34th Street is a street so special it deserved it’s own shout out. As you walk along 34th Street, you will find Madison Square Garden, Penn Station, Macy’s, and the Empire State building. It also feels like the great divide between Uptown Manhattan and Downtown Manhattan.
Times Square
We at Welcome to Times Square have a special love for Times Square. Some people may claim that it’s too touristy here, but we feel differently. A visit to Times Square is an absolute must for any visit to NYC. First off, seeing a Broadway Show should be on everyone’s NYC bucket list. To see a Broadway show, you have to visit Times Square. Times Square is also home to plenty of delicious restaurants, including a newly-opened Serendipity, home of the Frrrrrrrrrrrozen Hot Chocolate. Just a few steps west of Times Square you have “Hell’s Kitchen.” Despite its very scary name, it’s a fun and vibrant neighborhood full of restaurants, bars, shops, and theatres. To the east of Times Square you will find Bryant Park. Bryant Park is often referred to as the backyard of Times Square. During the Winter, it offers The Bank of America Winter Village. In the summer it boasts a giant grassy lawn where people gather to watch free movies and previews of Broadway performances.
Of course, the best way to experience Times Square is to become part of it. Times Square is famous for its billboards, and many believe it’s too expensive to ever appear on one. How much does it cost to appear on a Times Square billboard? $150 a day with Welcome to Times Square. How much does it cost to advertise on a Times Square Billboard? $250 a day with Welcome to Times Square. We look forward to seeing your photos!