15 Best Neighborhoods in New York City + MAP

The great metropolis contains interesting locations scattered throughout the finest neighborhoods in New York City. Whether you aim to see the primary attractions in NYC, or prefer to stray from the crowded paths, planning which districts of New York City you’ll tour helps.

Certainly, many of the most compellingNYC neighborhoods exist within Manhattan, although fascinating places to explore can also be found throughout the additional boroughs of New York City. The ideal area depends upon one’s interests and priorities. Whether one favors art, cuisine, history, or shopping, NYC offers neighborhoods well-suited for all.

To assist you, I’m sharing the 15 best neighborhoods in the Big Apple so you can find the perfect place to visit. Also, don’t forget to download the neighborhood map of New York City at the end of this guide to help you plan your itinerary.

1. TriBeCa, Manhattan, one of the trendiest neighborhoods in New York City

This list of neighborhoods in New York City wouldn’t be total without bringing up TriBeCa. This trendy area is known for its cobblestone roads lined with industrial lofts, artist’s galleries, and boutique shops.

TriBeCa lies below the Canal, so it’s near the buzzing shopping district on Canal Street. This neighborhood also borders SoHo, where more activities can be found. TriBeCa offers its own unique mix of landmarks too, like the dizzying Jenga Building, the Neo-Gothic Woolworth Building, and the St. Peter’s Roman Catholic Church. To the south, visit One World Observatory, Western Hemisphere`s tallest building at 1,776 feet, providing views of all Manhattan. If staying on the ground, I suggest Hudson River Park to admire skyline views by the water.

Additionally, TriBeCa is one of the prime NYC neighborhoods to explore in the springtime due to that being when you can attend the Tribeca Film Festival event.

• Recommended lodging: The Four Seasons Hotel New York Downtown, provides luxury and comfort in the heart of lower Manhattan if you desire top accommodations.

2. DUMBO, Brooklyn, the most scenic neighborhood in New York City

Across the East River, you’ll find DUMBO, another cool NYC neighborhood that should be checked out. As one of the best neighborhoods in Brooklyn, DUMBO appeals to the city’s trendsetters and creatives.

DUMBO refers to Down Under Manhattan Bridge Overpass, and those visiting the area of Washington Street between Front and Water streets will find DUMBO’s renowned viewpoint. From this vantage point, one can see the Manhattan Bridge passing between the city’s industrial structures, with the Empire State Building perfectly framed below it.

Another feature that makes DUMBO one of the top places worth visiting in Brooklyn is the Brooklyn Bridge. It appears amazing during the day and night, although if you go during the daytime hours, you can also tour Brooklyn Bridge Park.

I also suggest socializing with the local community by visiting one of the restaurants or bars in the area. Grab a slice of pizza at Grimaldi’s or Juliana’s, then browse for treasures at the Brooklyn Flea market, the most famous flea market in NYC. If time is limited, this walking tour provides an excellent introduction to the DUMBO neighborhood.

• Suggestedlodging: 1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge, is one of the best hotels in Brooklyn, with comfortable rooms, nice views, and an accommodating staff.

3. Chinatown, Manhattan, the Chinese and Southeast Asian neighborhood in NYC

A trip to the big city of New York is not complete without exploring Chinatown, one of the most notable and intriguingneighborhoods in NYC. Situated next to SoHo, Chinatown stands out as one of the premier places in Manhattan for food enthusiasts, owing to all the excellent dining options available here.

Travelers should come with an empty stomach, as there will be plenty of delicious local fare to try such as pork dumplings, fresh noodles, dim sum, sushi, and more. Some noteworthy restaurants that should be explored include Nom Wah Tea Parlor and Tasty Hand-Pulled Noodles. I also suggest perusing the vendor booths at Canal Street Market or PearlRiverMart. Both locations offer all kinds of goods and unique finds, making it an entertaining place to search for bargains.

In addition to being one of the best ethnic neighborhoods in New York City, Chinatown is also home to fascinating landmarks like the Original Chinatown Ice Cream Factory and the Mahayana Buddhist Temple. Don’t miss Doyers Street, which is small but holds lots of history. It was known as the “Bloody Angle” due to the string of murders that occurred there in the 1920s and 30s. Of course, it’s safe to visit today.

• Suggestedlodging: Stay at The Bowery Hotel, which is handily situated by Chinatown, SoHo, and Little Italy. Besides, it’s one of the premier luxury hotels in Manhattan.

4. East Village, Manhattan, one of the most unique NYC neighborhoods

The East Village is a melting pot of cultures, so it’s one of the prime NYC neighborhoods to feature in your itinerary. All kinds of people will find something to spark their interest here, and you may also find some obscure gems.

For instance, the East Village contains one of the top historical speakeasies in NYC,Please Don’t Tell (PDT). Patrons access it through Crif Dogs then utilize a phone booth to contact the staff. It rests on St. Mark`s Place, one of the most renowned streets in NYC renowned for its diversity of shops and retailers.

If you enjoy spending evenings outside, you’ll have a great time in the East Village since it offers many bars, clubs, and live music venues. In conjunction with PDT, I also advise visiting The Ready Rooftop and McSorley’sOld Ale House. The latter is the oldest pub in the city, and it`s said to be haunted. You can learn more about the spirits that dwell at the pub and other places in the East Village on this ghost tour.

• Recommended lodging: The East Village Hotel provides beautiful guest studios, an on-site coffee shop located nearby the New York City subway station.

5. Midtown, Manhattan, the most popular New York City neighborhood

Midtown is one of the most popular districts in New York City, and rightfully so. It’s definitely worth visiting to see all the well-known landmarks located here that make the Big Apple so great.

For example, you can view the remarkable Empire State Building, the busy RockefellerCenter, and other attractions like the ChryslerBuilding,Grand Central Terminal, and the NewYorkPublicLibrary. Nearby to the library, you’ll find Bryant Park, which continually has something fun to do, whether you visit during the summer or at Christmastime.

As the heart of Manhattan, Midtown serves as a hub for activity and sights to see. Some of the finest museums in NYC are located in Midtown, such as MoMA and the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum. Additionally, you cannot miss the stores, attractions, and street performers in Times Square.

Another aspect that makes Midtown a well known New York City neighborhood is Fifth Avenue, a premier shopping destination where you can discover luxury and designer brands. From here, you can see many New York landmarks towering over the skyline.

• Suggestedlodging: The Whitby Hotel is among the top rated hotels in Manhattan, with elegant rooms, romantic suites, and everything required to feel at home.

6. Williamsburg, Brooklyn, the Jewish neighborhood in New York City

Within the Brooklyn borough of New York City, visitors will find Williamsburg, another neighborhood that should not be missed in NYC. Williamsburg offers a lively and inviting atmosphere with numerous enjoyable activities available during daylight hours as well as throughout the evening. In this area, one can admire the colorful street art, memorabilia displayed at the City Reliquary, views of the iconic Williamsburg Bridge, one of the main bridges in NYC, and fresh air at Domino Park.

Williamsburg is also known as the neighborhood in New York City where many Jewish individuals reside, as it was originally a community of Orthodox Jews. Today, it still has one of the largest Jewish populations in the city, specifically Hasidic Jews originally from Eastern Europe. As one navigates through the neighborhood, they’ll notice temples and shops owned by Jewish proprietors, with signs written in Yiddish.

Williamsburg is also considered one of the top neighborhoods in New York City to enjoy entertainment at night, so after dark, head to the BKLYN Comedy Club or Brooklyn Bowl. You can also treat yourself to a meal at the PeterLuger Steakhouse, identified as one of the best restaurants in NYC, or go dancing at BlackFlamingo, a premier NYC nightclub.

• Suggestedlodging: Pod Brooklyn is one of the top inexpensive hotels in Brooklyn where you don’t have to forfeit quality for a great price.

7. Little Italy, the Italian neighborhood in NYC

LittleItaly is another area renowned for amazing cuisine, thus making it one of the greatest neighborhoods to explore in NYC. Here you can indulge in some of the best foods in NYC, such as authentic Italian cannoli, wood-fired pizzas, and handmade pastas.

It is important to go to the oldest cheese shop in the country, AllevaDairy, as well as Umberto’s Clam House, which is renowned as the location where the American gangster Joe Gallo was fatally shot in 1972. Along with its delicious cuisine, Little Italy is also famous for its mobster and mafia history, which you can learn more details about on this walking tour.

Other notable landmarks to explore consist of the Museum of Italian American Heritage and the Church of the Most Precious Blood. Dedicated to Saint Gennaro, visitors can witness the Festival of Saint Gennaro if visiting in September, which includes a Grand Procession, community events, and ample cuisine options. Celebrating the patron saint of Naples, Italy, it is regarded as one of the best means to experience the culture of the most prominent Italian neighborhood in New York City.

• Recommended accommodation: Stay at The Bowery Hotel to take advantage of its nearby location and comfortable facilities.

8. Chelsea, the gay neighborhood in NYC

Chelsea is one of NYC`s coolest neighborhoods, thanks to a blend of hipster culture and industrial structures. It’s trendy without pretense, so it`s a great location to explore with family, as a couple, or independently.

One of the most renowned features about this neighborhood is Chelsea Market, a huge shopping venue with over 200 retailers. It’s inside a former Nabisco box factory, although nowadays you can find nearly anything here, like the diversity of food stalls.

If planning to visit this amazing NYC rooftop, I suggest going near sunset, particularly when accompanied by a partner. Here, spectators can watch a stunning sundown over the Manhattan skyline, so attending won`t result in regret. Just be certain to reserve a ticket ahead of time, to ensure securing a spot.

Moreover, many individuals know Chelsea as the gay neighborhood of New York City since numerous of the businesses and residents here either belong to or support the LGBTQ+ community. You can see this reflected in the galleries, flea markets, boutiques, and shops here, which sell LGBTQ+ merchandise among all kinds of other items.

• Suggestedlodging: The Maritime Hotel has an elegant nautical motif and beautiful rooms to suit families and couples.

9. Harlem, Manhattan, a historically Black neighborhood in NYC

Harlem is another area in NYC that I recommend visiting. It’s north of Central Park, along the Harlem River, and offers a unique perspective of the city, with lots of things to do.

Following the Great Migration of the 1920s, Harlem became recognized as the predominantly African American area of NYC. This sparked the Harlem Renaissance, when Black musicians, writers, designers, and other inventive individuals produced various works to express their African American heritage. Today, Harlem remains one of the best ethnically diverse neighborhoods in New York City, filled with variety, art, and culture.

While you’re in the area, be sure to check out some popular entertainment venues like Bill’s Place, a well-known jazz club, or the Apollo Theater. The latter opened in 1913 and hosted many famous artists, such as Ray Charles, Duke Ellington, Aretha Franklin, and Otis Redding. You can learn more at the National JazzMuseum or by experiencing a Sunday gospel service.

Some other unique attractions located exclusively in Harlem include the Langston Hughes House, which honors the acclaimed African American writer, the Studio Museum, a contemporary art museum, the Sugar Hill Children’s Museum of Art & Storytelling, and the Graffiti Hall of Fame. After exploring the area, you can replenish yourself at Sylvia`s Restaurant, renowned as the “Queen of Soul Food” since 1962 for its Southern-inspired cuisine.

• Recommendedlodging: Aloft Harlem is near the Apollo Theater and features modern rooms, a gymnasium, and an on-site bar.

10. SoHo, Manhattan, the best shopping neighborhood in New York City

SoHo is considered one of the most desirable neighborhoods in New York City, providing an optimal setting for luxury shoppers. Visitors will discover numerous high-end fashion brands as well as a variety of delightful dining establishments. SoHo is also home to the renowned Dominique Ansel Bakery, where patrons can sample the well-known cronut. At nighttime, SoHo continues to buzz with activity due to its wide selection of bars.

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Finally, the area known as the Historic Cast-Iron District makes SoHo stand out as one of the most notable Manhattan neighborhoods. There are several impressive structures and buildings to explore, such as the Beaux Arts-style E.V. Haughwout Building.

• Suggested lodging: The Crosby Street Hotel is among the finest boutique hotels in Manhattan, with charming rooms and suites as well as afternoon tea.

11. Greenwich Village, Manhattan, a beautiful New York City neighborhood

If you’re looking for an NYC neighborhood that has everything, head to Greenwich Village. Here, you’ll find food, history, culture, and more!

Greenwich Village was a hotspot for alternative trends and thinkers of the 1950s and 60s, attracting poets, creators, musicians, and free spirits. To this day, there are many unique shops, independent cafes, and innovative bakeries to explore. In fact, if you have a sweet tooth, you’ll enjoy this cupcake guided walk, in which you’ll learn about the history of the cupcake and taste some delicious treats.

While purchasing admission is recommended, obtaining access to this museum is absolutely worthwhile since you can easily invest hours exploring the collection. The museum`s holdings appeal to people of every age range, and there are many displays and attractions suited for kids

If you’re overwhelmed by everything there is to do here, I recommend this walking excursion, which will take you to all the highlights.

• Suggestedaccommodation: Stay at The Marlton Hotel, a boutique resort near Washington Square Park with luxury rooms and a restaurant.

12. Upper East Side, Manhattan, a wealthy neighborhood in New York City

The Upper East Side is one of the most prestigious and richest neighborhoods in New York City. This is where people go to surround themselves in the luxurious lifestyle of Manhattan’s elite, even if it’s just for a day.

Moreover, the Upper East Side is one of New York City’s finest neighborhoods since it has exceptional shops and boutiques, renowned institutions, and some of the most beautiful landmarks. For example, Fifth Avenue between 82nd and 110th streets is nicknamed the “Museum Mile.” Some of the best cultural institutions in Manhattan are here such as the Metropolitan Museum of Art, the Guggenheim, the Frick Collection,El Museo del Barrio,The Jewish Museum, and the Museumfor African Art.

Scattered among these cultural institutions, you’ll find upscale restaurants and high-end stores. Moreover, most of the museums border Central Park, a Manhattan landmark with all types of activities. If you’re lodging near the Upper East Side, you can explore Wollman Rink, the Pond, the Bethesda Fountain, and the Conservatory Garden.

Another great feature of this NYC neighborhood is easy access to other boroughs. Lovely views from the Roosevelt Island Tram at 60^th Street and 2^nd Avenue or use the NY Ferry at the East 90^th Street dock to ride over to Queens or Brooklyn.

• Recommendedlodging: With its white-glove service, The Pierre is one of the finest high-end hotels in NYC that will become your home away from home.

13. Financial District, Manhattan, a historic New York City neighborhood

Over in Lower Manhattan, the Financial Sector is one of the coolest NYC neighbourhoods, particularly if you’re interested in history. While it’s renowned for the New York Stock Exchange, the Financial Sector offers numerous other attractions, like the Fearless Girl statue, Federal Hall, and Trinity Church.

This neighborhood is also home to Bowling Green, NYC’s earliest park and site of the original 17th-century Dutch settlement of New Amsterdam. Take your time ambling through the area and admiring notable landmarks like the Alexander Hamilton U.S. Custom House, the International Mercantile Marine Company Building, and the Charging Bull statue.

Another locale worth visiting is The Battery, whose name reflects its past as a defensive artillery location. The park traces back to the 17th century, and today, visitors can find artifacts like Castle Clinton, Monument Walk, the SeaGlass Carousel, and the Bosque Fountain. The Battery is renowned for its green spaces and ferry terminal, where travelers can cruise to Staten Island or take a Statue of Liberty tour such as this one.

If you prefer to stay on land, this Wall Street tour is one of the finest walking excursions in NYC and incorporates the most famed attractions in the area.

• Recommended lodging: Remain at the , a clean and contemporary resort where you can get gorgeous views from your room or the hotel terrace.

14. Park Slope, Brooklyn, one of the best residential neighborhoods in NYC

Within Brooklyn, Park Slope is another desirable neighborhood in New York City featuring tree-lined streets dotted with family homes and various attractions to explore.

For example, a number of the highly esteemed museums in Brooklyn are located in Park Slope, such as the Brooklyn Museum and the Old Stone House. You can also visit the Brooklyn Conservatory and the Barclays Center for a performance or get some fresh air at Brooklyn Botanic Garden and Green-Wood Cemetery. The latter isn’t as eerie as it sounds; rather, it’s a lovely outdoor area with lots of natural beauty and historic landmarks.

Moreover, it’s next to Prospect Park, a must-see in Brooklyn. This huge park is full of monuments, playgrounds, sports fields, and a recreation center.

Not only is Park Slope considered one of the optimal neighborhoods in NYC for families, but it’s also popular with artists and literary personalities, thanks to its blend of indie coffee shops, bookstores, and record stores. Without question, this is one neighborhood where you’ll never feel bored.

• Suggestedlodging: Hotel Le Bleu has neatly decorated rooms, relaxed comforts, and it’s one of the only accommodations in NYC with free auto storage, so it’s a great place to remain in Park Slope.

15. Astoria, Queens, one of the most diverse New York City neighborhoods

Queens may not be as popular as Manhattan, but it’s still worth visiting. In particular, I recommend Astoria, the finest neighborhood in NYC’s Queens borough. It’s full of scenic viewpoints, green spaces, and entertaining attractions.

There are numerous activities to engage in Astoria. First, admire the scenery along the East River or Flushing Bay, where the Manhattan or Brooklyn skyline can be seen. Another beautiful place to explore is Flushing Meadows Corona Park, which was constructed for the 1939 New York World’s Fair. It has two lakes, a skate park, several playgrounds, and sports fields, as well as the iconicUnisphere sculpture. Many of the top attractions in Queens are located in this park, like the Queens Museum, the New York Hall of Science, and the USTA Billie Jean King NationalTennis Center.

Nearby the park, you can check out the highly rated Queens Botanical Garden and, over in Astoria, it`s worthwhile paying a visit to Astoria Park and its renowned Pool and Bathhouse. Additionally, there are numerous fascinating museums in Queens like the Museum of the Moving Image, the Noguchi Museum, and Socrates Sculpture Park.

As you can see, Astoria is an awesome NYC neighborhood for creatives, and it also has a vibrant nightlife scene. Don’t forget to check out The Highwater, the Let Love Inn, or Bohemian Hall, the oldest beer garden in the city.

• Recommended lodging: The Collective Paper Factory is an historic landmark with a perfect location, luxurious rooms, and stunning city views. It`s also one of the most affordable hotels in Queens.

Map of neighborhoods in New York City

Now that you are familiar with the topneighborhoods of NYC, you’re ready to plan your trip. Here is a map of all New York City neighborhoods to assist you in organizing your itinerary.

If there are any questions or you would like to share your favorite neighborhood in NYC, feel free to leave a comment below. I would be pleased to hear from you! Until then, I hope you enjoy your time exploring the Big Apple!