10 Best Things to Do in SoHo NYC + MAP

There are lots of awesome things one can do in SoHo, NYC, from browsing art galleries and museums to going out for drinks and shopping for luxury items. As one of the best places to visit in Manhattan, SoHo is well worth a trip, even if you only have a few hours to spend there.

SoHo stands for South of Houston Street, and it is a neighborhood located in Lower Manhattan nestled between Little Italy and Hudson Square. It is known for its trendy artist’s lofts, cast-iron architecture, and boutique stores, although there are other interesting SoHo attractions, like museums, theaters, and cafes. So, if you love art, shopping, or the elegant and fashionable reputation of the Big Apple, you will enjoy SoHo.

We’ve visited New York City several times, and I can tell you that SoHo definitely has its own distinct vibe. So, in this guide, I’ll share the 10 best places in SoHo you must visit.

1. Browse the art galleries, something to do in SoHo during the day

Browsing the neighborhood art galleries is one of the quintessential activities in SoHo, so if you have an interest in art, I recommend doing so. A few galleries in particular are popular locations for artists, collectors, and enthusiasts.

First, the Eden Gallery features all kinds of contemporary pieces, so you’re likely to locate something you like here. Across the gallery’s four floors, you’ll find paintings, sculptures, mixed media installations, and even digital art. In addition to contemporary art, the Eden Gallery is known for its nature photography, as well as papercuts and shadow boxes.

The New York Earth Room is another intriguing place to explore in SoHo, especially if you take interest in conceptual artwork. This extensive, long-lasting installation was developed in 1977 by sculptor Walter de Maria, who utilized 250 cubic yards of dirt to fill the 3,600ft2 space. It serves as an illustration of land art and examines the connection between natural and human-constructed works.

Jeffrey Deitch is also worth bringing up, as it’s a gallery specializing in contemporary and avant-garde art. It features a rotating roster of exhibitions, including drawings, paintings, sculptures, photographs, and prints.

2. Treat yourself to a gourmet meal, the best thing to do in SoHo as a couple

Alongside its vibrant arts scene, SoHo offers plenty of great places to dine. One of the best places inSoHo to obtain a delectable meal is Mercer Kitchen, which specializes in modern American cuisine. It’s owned by renowned chef Jean-Georges Vongerichte, so the menu is full of gourmet dishes and excellent fish and seafood. Mercer Kitchen also has a raw bar and an excellent selection of wines, beers, and fruity cocktails.

Another locale I suggest exploring is Boqueria Soho, which serves dishes inspired by Barcelona. Visiting here makes for an enjoyable activity in SoHo alongside companions since you can partake in modest plates like patatas bravas,tortillaespañola,pan con tomate, Manchego cheese, and Ibérico ham. The eatery also offers tastypaella,churros con chocolate, andalbóndigas (meatballs).

For a more leisurely atmosphere, explore Chobani SoHo, a café highlighting Chobani`s yogurt offerings. Lombardi’s also deserves mention, and while situated in Little Italy, it`s nearby SoHo. It`s been operating since 1905, and its Neapolitan-style pizza is regarded as one of the most delicious foods to sample in NYC.

Finally, The Ear Inn is the oldest bar in America that has continuously served alcohol and it’s housed in a structure from 1817. Along with beer, wine, and beverages, you can dine on all kinds of burgers, salads, and chicken pot pie.

3. See a musical or play, a fun thing to do in SoHo at night

This renowned location in Manhattan allows one to appreciate live theatrical performances, and seeing a dramatic production or musical event is an amusing pastime in SoHo at night. Two venues in particular are recommended destinations if witnessing a cinema screening or off-Broadway presentation is desired.

To begin, the Film Forum is an antique movie theater that originally presented independent films when it opened in the 1970s. Currently, it houses four cinema halls where you can view foreign art films in addition to indie flicks. The Film Forum is one of the few non-profit cinemas in the city, and you can purchase tickets on the website or at the box office.

The other notable location is SoHo Playhouse, an off-Broadway theatre, and the former residence of the New York Academy of Theatrical Arts. It hosts a regular lineup of musicals and plays, and sponsors the International Fringe Encore Series each year, so it’s a must-see in SoHo for performers.

4. Go shopping, something to do in SoHo with friends

With its eateries, galleries, and theaters, the only thing absent from SoHo is a shopping area. Well, in the zone between Wooster Street and Broadway, between Houston Street and Canal, you’ll locate all varieties of shops and retailers.

For instance, numerous high-end boutiques and luxury brands exist where one can treat themselves to new attire, footwear, or accessories. A few distinguished name brands located here comprise Polo Ralph Lauren, Louis Vuitton, Chanel, Gucci, Patagonia, Birkenstock, Nike, and ZARA.

Other highlights include the Apple Store and Tiffany & Co., which offers exquisite jewelry and fragrances. In addition to the boutiques, there are children’s stores, independent retailers, and bargain outlets, so everyone can find something here. Even if one isn’t a dedicated shopper, perusing the shops is something to do around SoHo if the weather`s too cold or rainy.

5. Take a sightseeing tour, one of the best things to do in SoHo, NYC

If you aren’t sure of the places to behold in SoHo or you have limited time available, I suggest choosing a sightseeing tour. I find taking this two-hour circuit beneficial because it visits the prime locations in SoHo as well as Little Italy and Chinatown.

Initially, you will tour the storied Cast Iron District in SoHo to see the wonderful architecture along Spring and Greene Streets. Our guide will point out noteworthy structures like the E.V. Haughwout Building and the former Old Police Station, now a private home retaining its early twentieth-century Beaux-Arts design.

You’ll also see cast iron barriers and rough stone arches of a five floor property`s address. The highest floor of this building once belonged to a famous actress, and it’s where an actor spent his final moments.

The next part of the tour takes you to the neighboring communities of Little Italy and Chinatown. Discover the organized crime history of Nolita and visit the Ravenite Club, Alleva Dairy, and Umbertos, where gangster Joe Gallo was shot. You’ll also pass Old Saint Patrick’s, the Italian American Museum, and the National Shrine Church of San Gennaro.

Ultimately, within Chinatown, one will hear the account of the Bloody Angle at Doyers Street, one of the most renowned streets in NYC, where various murders took place in the 1920s and 30s. Your guide will also bring you to an old opium den before ending the tour at Columbus Park. This qualifies as one of the best tours in NYC, particularly since one can experience three neighborhoods in a single visit.

6. Try a cronut at Dominque Ansel Bakery, a delicious thing to do in SoHo

Whether you spend your day in SoHo shopping, viewing art, or taking a tour, you’ll need to refuel. For something quick and delicious, head to Dominique Ansel Bakery, one of the best places in SoHo for a sweet treat.

The bakery is run by a French pastry chef named Dominique Ansel, who crafts all varieties of delectable baked goods. You can find traditional French treats such as buttered croissants and chocolate eclairs, along with more innovative creations like chocolate chip cookie shooters, frozen s’mores, and banana bread tiramisu.

However, Dominique Ansel is most renowned for inventing the cronut, a croissant-donut hybrid. Introduced in 2013, the cronut rapidly became a food sensation, and it’s still a popular selection on menus as well as one of the best eats in NYC to sample. It contains the flakiness of a croissant along with the sweetness of a donut, so if you want to try it, this is the place to go.

Of course, the bakery provides a wide variety, like savory sandwiches, quiches, and hot and cold beverages. So, for an inexpensive activity to do in SoHo with friends or your partner, stop in for dessert at this iconic bakery.

7. Explore the Cast Iron District, a unique thing to do in SoHo, New York City

I earlier mentioned the Cast Iron District somewhat when discussing the sightseeing tour through SoHo. Those interested in exploring this historic SoHo attraction may find the following highlights worthwhile.

In the late 1800s, cast-iron architecture was one of the symbols of the Industrial Revolution, and eventually paved the way for NYC’s massive skyscrapers. Today, there are hundreds of cast-iron structures in SoHo, although some stand out more prominently than others.

For example, the E.V. Haughwout Building is a five-story commercial structure at the corner of Broome Street and Broadway. Constructed in 1857, it features two cast-iron street-front facades and, at 79 feet high, it was considered one of the city’s first towering structures at that time.

Another must-see in SoHo is the Singer Building on Broadway. This Art Nouveau-style office building was constructed in 1904 and has a façade made of brick, steel, and terracotta. It also has elements of Beaux Arts-style architecture, with cast-iron detailing on the balconies.

The building built at the intersection of Houston Street and Broadway during the late 1880s has a noteworthy façade. Known as Cable Building, it occupies an entire block, making it hard to miss. It features a two-level arcade with ornate ironwork brackets and moldings along with a composition of brick, stone, and terracotta tiles for the front. Its sculptural details such as the copper-made lions` faces stand apart from the rest.

Finally, the building situated at 101 Spring Street dates back to 1870 and is now a beautifully preserved cast-iron structure that serves as a home and workshop for artists.

8. Visit the Leslie-Lohman Museum, another cool thing to do in SoHo, NY

Speaking of art, another fascinating place in SoHo for art lovers is the Leslie-Lohman Museum. It houses an impressive collection of LGBTQ+ drawings, paintings, photographs, sculptures, and prints.

The pieces here explore concepts of gay rights, queer expression, and other LGBTQ+ issues. As one of the oldest institutions nationwide dedicated to preserving LGBTQ+ art, the Leslie-Lohman Museum contains works by renowned artists and less renowned creators.

For example, the permanent collection features work by David Hockney and Andy Warhol, as well as photos by Robert Mapplethorpe. You’ll also see pieces by LGBTQ+ artists like George Platt Lynes, James Bidgood, and Del LaGrace Volcano.

The museum holds temporary exhibitions as well, so if you’re looking for activities to occupy your time in SoHo during the day or when it rains, check out what`s on display.

9. Go out for drinks, the best thing to do in SoHo at night

When the sun begins to set over the city, the entertainment doesn`t have to cease. Having refreshments is one of the best activities to engage in in SoHo at night, especially as a couple or with a group of acquaintances.

This area provides a few lovely spots to obtain cocktails and enjoy a lively atmosphere. Without question, one of the finest places in SoHo for beverages is JIMMY on the 18^th floor of ModernHaus SoHo. Inspired by Picasso’s Blue Period, this New York City rooftop has an indoor lounge, live music, and an outdoor plunge pool. It’s the perfect spot for date night or after-dinner drinks, and the panoramic views are incredible.

Some other engaging places to explore in SoHo include the Spring Lounge and the Broome Street Bar. The Spring Lounge has been a popular casual bar since the 1920s and boasts a vintage appearance with an extensive selection of beers, wines, and spirits. The Broome Street Bar is another friendly neighborhood pub with great beer and bar food.

10. Visit other SoHo museums, something to do in SoHo if it rains

If you’re searching for activities to engage in in SoHo, New York with children, you can’t fail with investing a day at the museum. This neighborhood has several fun museums for little ones and teenagers to explore their creativity and learn something new.

First, the New York City Fire Museum has an important collection of artifacts, photos, and mementos regarding the history of the FDNY. Some of the objects date as far back as the 1650s, although you can also view modern fire-fighting equipment. The museum is located in the old headquarters for the FDNY’s Engine Company No. 30 and has a memorial dedicated to the firefighters lost during 9/11.

Another attraction in SoHo for little ones is the Museum of Ice Cream. This locale with photo props features vibrant hues, dessert-inspired areas, and fun props that make awesome photos. It’ll appeal to all ages, so it`s one of the best museums in Manhattan to visit with little ones or acquaintances.

For a museum specifically designed for children, check out the Children’s Museum of the Arts. Here, the little ones can generate their own artwork, such as drawings, sculptures, sound art, and stop-motion animation. The museum also has a selection of children’s art from around the world, some dating back to the 1930s. Alternatively, The Drawing Center features historical and contemporary drawings for all audiences.

Where to stay in SoHo, NYC

Now that you are familiar with some of the prime things to do in SoHo, New York, here are a few highly recommended hotels in the vicinity. If you would like additional accommodation selections, you can check our complete guide on where to lodge in NYC.

• Soho 54 – This progressive facility is one of the premier inexpensive lodgings in Manhattan and highlights a lovely rooftop terrace and a round-the-clock gymnasium. The rooms are pleasing, and some of them have personal balconies.

• Arlo SoHo – This hotel in downtown NYC has a superb location in SoHo. It has a restaurant, a rooftop bar, and comfy rooms, although bunk rooms and suites are also available.

• Crosby Street Hotel – As one of the most renowned places to stay in Manhattan reported on this website, this top-rated lodging in SoHo offers luxurious rooms with expansive windows overlooking the city. It also boasts a rooftop dining area, an interior courtyard, and a beautifully landscaped garden.

Map of SoHo, New York City

Finally, here is a visual guide of all the prime locations in SoHo that I have mentioned, as well as the hotels I suggest. Utilize this map to strategize your visit and organize your itinerary with all the SoHo attractions you wish to experience.

If you have any inquiries or want to share your favorite things to do in New York City’s SoHo neighborhood, leave me a comment below. I’d be pleased to hear from you! Until then, have a wonderful trip!