visit soho new york

The 15 Best Things to Do in SoHo NYC – The Complete Guide 2024

The best attractions & places in soho nyc.

SoHo stands for South of Houston and is a world-famous shopping paradise and artist district in Manhattan, NYC. Bordered by Houston Street, Lafayette Street, and the western part of Broadway, you’ll find a lovely, bright part of the city that has become world-renowned, in part because it has been a backdrop for so many films and commercials.

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• Shopping in SoHo
• Shopping in New York
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By the way: you’ll find many more New York City spots in our Loving New York travel guides !

Table of Contents

My TOP 5 Things to Do in SoHo

SoHo is famous for so many reasons. There are a bunch of attractions, stores, and restaurants that it can be overwhelming especially if it’s your first time visiting. It’s a popular neighborhood and it’s very busy throughout the whole year. Here’s a list of what we highly recommend:

• Have breakfast at 12 Chairs  – This restaurant serves Israeli breakfast and is popular among the locals. 12 Chairs is one of our go-to SoHo breakfast spots and has always been exceptional. (56 MacDougal St, New York, NY 10012)
• Check out the amazing cast-iron architecture – SoHo is known for its amazing cast-iron architecture. It’s everywhere in the neighborhood, especially along Broadway. (Broadway and Prince St.)
• Go shopping on Broadway – This street is filled with many stores and boutiques. You’ll find our favorite vintage store, Vintage Twin along this street. (597 Broadway)
• Museum of Ice Cream – The interactive museum in the middle of Broadway is not only a hit on social media. There’s so much to discover and taste, you’ll love it.
• Visit the NYC Fire Museum  – Learn the history of the New York Fire Department. The NYC Fire Museum is great for families with children and worth the visit. (278 Spring St, New York, NY 10013)

Where is SoHo NYC located?

As you can see on the map below SoHo is located right in the center of Downtown Manhattan . From here, the Meatpacking District as well as the Brooklyn Bridge and Lower Manhattan are within walking distance. Neighboring Districts are Greenwich Village , Little Italy , Nolita, Tribeca and Hudson Square.

How to Get To Soho in New York

Metro: There are multiple trains that you can take to the neighborhood: You can take the following subway lines to get to SoHo NYC:

• R   W N Q to Prince Street
• B D F   M and to Broadway-Lafayette St
• 4 6 and A C E to Spring St
• 1 2  to Houston St
• 1 2 or 4 6 or J Z or A C E or N Q R W to Canal St

The 15 Best Things To Do in SoHo NYC

SoHo NYC is filled with a bunch of activities and events. There’s always something going on here. Our TOP 5 above are things we highly recommend but to be honest that list doesn’t stop there. There’s something for everyone in this wonderful neighborhood. Depending on the time of the year, SoHo can be filled with seasonal pop-up shops or activities on the street. If you’re into photography, this is a great place to photograph as well.

Wondering what to do in Soho NYC? Here’s my list of things I personally recommend you do!

These are the attractions worth checking out in Soho

01 Go shopping on Broadway

Broadway is probably one of the most well-known streets in NYC, and also runs right through the center of SoHo. Many big-name shops have their flagship stores right here on this street. Broadway is not only the longest street, but it is also the heart of shopping in SoHo .

You can find your mainstream stores such as Uniqlo and H&M. You can also try your hand with boutique shopping in SoHo . These stores curate their selection so it matches their brand identity and it makes for a better shopping experience.

02 Soho, Little Italy & Chinatown Walking Tour

Now known for their many excellent restaurants, shops and tourism, Manhattan’s SoHo, Little Italy and Chinatown neighborhoods offer the most varied stories of New York City. Take a 2-hour tour with a local guide and discover hidden gems and 19th century buildings.

03 Museum of Ice Cream

Located at 558 Broadway in SoHo, the Museum of Ice Cream features 13 all-new interactive art installations across 25,000 square feet over 3 floors. Besides multi-sensory installations, it boasts the biggest sprinkle pool to date. With exhibits like these, the Museum of Ice Cream NYC is not your traditional museum. If you’re a family with children, it’s really worth visiting the Museum of Ice Cream in SoHo.

Recommended:  The Best Museums in NYC

04 Explore SoHo with a camera

If you’re big into photography, then make sure to bring your camera to this neighborhood. SoHo fashion is some of the best fashion in the country and the art scene is top-notch as well. If photographing people isn’t your thing, then you also have the option of shooting the cast-iron buildings.

During the industrial revolution, cast-iron architecture was very popular as everyone was convinced that iron was much more substantial and fireproofed than steel. At the time, cast-iron fronts were built more often than normal wooden houses. These typical cast-iron buildings are the reason why so many producers decided to shoot their films or commercials on the streets of SoHo.

The fire escape staircases along with the architecture give the neighborhood its unique look. These beautiful buildings belong to SoHo similar to how yellow cabs belong to NYC.

05 Have breakfast at 12 Chairs

The name of the 12 Chair comes from the beginnings of the once small café, which only had 12 seats. Here you will find delicacies from Israel with a successful mix to the Russian cuisine. Sounds confusing, but it is super delicious. It is very popular both for brunch and dinner among the locals and is one of our go-to SoHo breakfast spots!

06 Enjoy a nice coffee in SoHo

La Colombe Coffee Roasters in SoHo NYC is a renowned coffee haven known for its meticulously crafted brews and minimalist ambiance. With its sleek design and dedication to quality, La Colombe offers an array of specialty coffee drinks, including their famous Draft Latte and Pure Black Cold Brew, drawing in coffee aficionados from all around.

My tip: These are the best cafés in SoHo NYC right now!

07 Keep an eye for pop-up events

As we mentioned above, depending on the time of the year, SoHo hosts numerous pop-up events. The latest one we went to was the popular Friend’s Pop-Up and Sarah Jessica Parker’s Shoe Pop-Up.

08 Dominique Ansel Bakery: Try the famous Cronut!

You’ve probably heard of the infamous cronut. That originally started at Dominique Ansel Bakery. When they first came out, it was almost impossible to get one because it would sell out right away.

Today the hustle and bustle has calmed down a bit, but we can still recommend a visit. Be sure to try the strawberry lychee tartlet or the croissants with coconut and chocolate!!!

09 Restaurant Boqueria: Eat the best tapas in town!

One of our highlights is the Boqueria in SoHo. We have walked past it 100 times and have not noticed it at all. Then it was recommended to us during a conversation and what can we say: it is really really good! We had to wait almost 30 minutes until we had two of the coveted seats. Both Tino and I would describe ourselves as Spain connoisseurs, so we were all the more surprised at HOW good the tapas were here. Took us right back to our summer vacations!

10 View independent movies

The Film Forum in SoHo/Greenwich Village is a non-profit theater that’s known for showing independent flicks. If you’re a big movie person, this place is for you. The theater opened in 1970 and is an iconic spot.

11 New York City Fire Museum

The former firehouse was reconstructed into a museum filled with three floors of New York City Fire Department history. Built-in 1904, the NYC Fire Museum cares for over 10,000 objects as well as archives, ephemera, and photographs that celebrate the history of the New York City Fire Department . You will also find a permanent memorial to the 343 members of the FDNY-EMS who lost their lives in the World Trade Center attacks on September 11, 2001. This museum is great for kids as younger friends of the FDNY are invited to try on an original firemen suit and can learn all about how firemen extinguish a fire.

12 Ride your bike around SoHo

If your time is limited and you want to check out as much of SoHo as you can, then we recommend just taking a bike . You’ll be able to see the many cobblestone streets, the art, and many fashionable people. It’s a lot to take in but definitely worth it.

You can rent a bike at the nearby Brooklyn Bridge Bike Rental or take one of the many bikes from the city bike program Citi Bike .

13 Leslie-Lohman Museum of Art: the world's only LGBTQ+ Art Museum

The Leslie-Lohman Museum of Art is one of the newest museums in New York and is the only one fully dedicated to LGBTQ+ art. It was recognized as a museum in 2016, but its roots trace back to 1969. 

The founders Charles Leslie and Fritz Lohman exhibited the first artworks in their Soho loft back then, and today they have over 25,000 objects in their collection. 

14 Learn the art of drawing

The Drawing Center is a museum and an art gallery in Soho that focuses on historical and contemporary drawing and is one of the best things to do in SoHo since its opening in 1977.

15 Enjoy a cocktail and amazing views at Jimmy at the James Hotel

From 5 pm onwards Jimmy at the James provides one of the best views you can get of downtown NYC. This rooftop bar in SoHo has some great drinks and nice seating areas. If you’re in the mood for a cocktail, make sure to visit the Jimmy at the James Hotel. If you get here by sunset, the views will be even better.

We consider Jimmy at the James one of the best bars in NYC .

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Attractions in SoHo

Many of New York’s major New York attractions  are located in this part of Manhattan so make sure to add them to you travel itinerary:

01 Eden Gallery SoHo

The Eden Gallery is an international contemporary art gallery with locations in NYC, Miami, Mykonos, London, and, soon, in Dubai. It was founded by Cathia Kimovsky in 1997 and has since grown into a worldwide network of high-end galleries that represent a multitude of international artists, each of whom has its own unique and modern approach to art. The artists from Eden Gallery collectively promote and represent contemporary optimism and colorful views of life. 

In each of Eden’s gallery spaces worldwide, it’s evident that they operate at the forefront of vibrant, modern culture with a spirit of commitment to the community among their curators, supporters, and artists. At this gallery, you’ll find pieces of art that are held to the highest standards and events, experiences, and exhibitions that are not only unforgettable but will leave you transformed and inspired. 

02 Arcadia Contemporary

Arcadia Contemporary Gallery was founded in 2001 and had its first location in Soho New York. It has had its current name since 2014, originally it was called Arcadia Fine Arts. After moving to Pasadena/California from 2016 to 2021, it has been back in Soho since 2021. This time in the Soho Art District on West Broadway. 

03 Broadway

Broadway is probably the most famous street in New York City and SoHo’s main shopping street. It is not only the longest shopping street, but also a commercial heart of the city.

04 Brooke Alexander Gallery

The Brooke Alexander Gallery was founded in Soho in 1968 by Carolyn and Brooke Alexander in an East 68th Street storefront. Though it’s now located on Wooster Street, it still proudly serves as a member of The Art Dealers Association of America today.

This art gallery began publishing prints and multiples for artists in 1968 and since then has published over 1,500 works. The Alexanders relocated the gallery a couple of times throughout the years, having moved from 68th Street to 57th Street in 1975, and then from 57th to Wooster Street in 1985. 

At some point in the early ‘90s, Brooke Alexander and his wife split up, and he became the sole director/owner of the gallery. His wife, Carolyn Alexander, went on to join the gallery’s former director, Ted Bonin, to create the Alexander and Bonin Gallery in 1995. Yet still, the Brooke Alexander Gallery has become known for its influence on New York’s late-20th century art scene. In fact, these efforts were recognized in 1995 as the gallery was honored at the Smithsonian Institution. 

05 Cast iron architecture

During the industrial revolution, cast-iron architecture was very popular as everyone was convinced that iron was much more substantial and fireproofed than steel. At the time, cast-iron fronts were built more often than normal wooden houses. These typical cast-iron buildings are the reason why so many producers decided to shoot their films or commercials on the streets of SoHo .

06 Color Factory New York

The Color Factory New York is a museum where all ages can embark on an interactive journey through 14 colorful art exhibits. From the bright yellow of New York’s famous cabs to the creamy brown of a delicious street pretzel, the Color Factory celebrates the city’s vibrant colors.

There’s a little surprise for visitors each time they visit, and you can take great photos in the diverse exhibits. All of this was developed by local and international artists and collaborators.

07 Fridman Gallery

The FRIDMAN GALLERY was officially opened in November 2013. The first exhibitions consisted of a series of collaborations with prominent curators and performances. Various lectures and events will also take place here.

08 Georges Berges Gallery

The Georges Berges Gallery can be found in the heart of Soho, where you’ll find a splendid mixture of consequential living artists from around the globe. The man, Georges Berges, has always had a way of looking at art with a worldly yet human view, and he used this to create his namesake gallery on Broadway. His vision was to use the gallery to bridge the gap between emerging international collectors and artists, which has been pushed forward recently after a second gallery was opened in Berlin. 

Yet, while he believes in representing emerging markets and the artists within them, he also knows how important it is to maintain a significant relationship with the artist and the art. At the Georges Berges Gallery, collectors can acquire original works from upcoming and established artists that have been shown and vetted by prestigious institutions, museums, and private collections around the world. 

09 Hugo Fine Arts Galerie SoHo

HUGO GALERIE in SoHo specializes in contemporary figurative painting and sculpture, emphasizing the relevance of traditional artistic methods to the present. Its international artists work with a variety of materials, including oil, pastel, watercolor, acrylic, and bronze, and represent styles such as realism, magical realism, impressionism, and surrealism.

10 Jeffrey Deitch

Anyone who’s a fan of New York City’s contemporary art scene knows the name, Jeffrey Deitch. He’s an esteemed curator and art dealer who’s best known for his gallery that operated from 1996 until 2010 called Deitch Projects, where he curated projects such as Post Human and Lives. After shuttering his art gallery, Deitch moved to Los Angeles, where he served as the Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA) director until 2013. 

11 June Kelly Gallery

The June Kelly Gallery is a contemporary art gallery founded in 1987 within NYC’s historic Soho district. This gallery specializes in contemporary sculptures, paintings, photography, and drawings while representing works from a diverse group of established, mid-career, and emerging artists, many of whom have already achieved international acclaim and recognition. 

In the past, exhibitions displayed by the June Kelly Gallery have received numerous art world publication reviews from companies such as The New York Times, Art in America, and Sculpture Magazine. Such publications have not only profiled represented artists but have also featured the gallery on the cover. 

Many of the attractions and tours in SoHo and the surrounding neighborhoods are included in one of the New York City passes. So you can easily and quickly save up to 70% – how does it work?

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Best Restaurants in Soho NYC

SoHo is filled with many restaurants, cafes, and bars and the majority of them are very popular. There’s literally a place to eat in every corner of the neighborhood. Trendy and hip restaurants in SoHo NYC can be found scattered throughout the neighborhood. Fine dining and more up-scale restaurants in SoHo are perfect for a date or an anniversary. Below are some places we can recommend:

01 Balthazar

The stylish restaurant serves traditional French cuisine. Outside the menu you can also choose from the seafood bar and the delicacies from the Balthazar Bakery. The breakfast is legendary and the home-baked bread is especially convincing. By the way, you can get a lot more of it in the adjacent bakery.

02 Antique Garage

As the name suggests, the location used to be an old screwdriver garage, which was brought to life in 2003. The furnishing with antique paintings and lamps creates a relaxed, cosy atmosphere.  And then the food: the starters alone are already a blast. Try “Mezze” – these are Mediterranean little treats.

03 Aurora SoHo

Ever been to Italy? Well, if you’re in SoHo, you don’t need a plane ticket because Aurora is right in the neighborhood, bringing you the rich flavors of Piedmont. Aurora got its start back in 2003 in Williamsburg, Brooklyn when Chef Riccardo Buitoni and his pals decided their neighborhood needed a place for authentic Italian comfort food. And boy, did they deliver!

By 2007, Aurora was ready to grace SoHo with its delightful charm. Ever since, it’s been the trusted local favorite, distinguished by its commitment to freshness. The irresistible aroma of bread baking? That’s all them. The silky, luscious gelato? Crafted in-house. Every ingredient, sourced locally or imported straight from Italy, is part of the authentic experience.

But let me share some insider brunch wisdom: you absolutely need to try the Parma Benedict. Prosciutto, poached eggs, and burrata, all gently laid on a fluffy brioche and topped with a luxurious truffle hollandaise. What a way to brunch! And their Truffle French Fries? Simply delectable. They serve this mouthwatering menu on Saturdays and Sundays from 11:00 am until 3:30 pm. So, whenever you find yourself in SoHo between these hours, stop by Aurora—it’s an experience you’ll truly savor!

04 Black Tap NYC

Black Tap NYC is known for its delicious milkshakes & burgers and really worth a visit!

The BoCaphe is one of our favourite spots if we want to enjoy “Vietnamese French Cuisine” in a relaxed atmosphere.

Looking for more recommendations? We’ve got you covered! Here you find more spots here:

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Best Bars in Soho NYC

At the end of the day, if you’re looking to relax and unwind, SoHo is also filled with amazing bars and pubs. Make sure to visit Jimmy at the James, which is a popular SoHo rooftop bar where you’ll get an awesome view of the skyline and exceptional atmosphere.

01 142 Sullivan Bar

142 Sullivan Bar is a very popular little bar, especially with New Yorkers, in the Soho neighborhood, just two blocks from Bleecker Street and one block from W Houston Street.

We love this place because of the welcoming atmosphere, and: the cocktails and the wines are really good. 

02 Bar Moga

Bar Moga is a 1920s-era Japanese cocktail bar with jazz music, specializing in Craft Cocktails, Shochu, Japanese whiskey-based libations, and Yoshoku comfort food. Embracing the best this era of Japan had to offer. Yōshoku (洋食), or “western” dishes, are comfort food in Japan that boomed during the Taisho period, lending itself perfectly to the Bar Moga concept. Their signature cocktails incorporate traditional Japanese spirits into recipes inspired by the American prohibition era.

03 Fanelli Cafe

Located in the historic SoHo district of New York City, Fanelli Cafe is one of the city’s oldest bars, situated opposite The Mercer hotel.

The property at 94 Prince Street, where Fanelli Cafe currently resides, first appeared in the city’s tax assessment records in 1846. In 1847, Herman Gerken leased the wooden building on the site and opened a grocery store. By 1857, Gerken replaced it with a five-story brick building that still exists. 

The SoHo area underwent significant changes in the mid-19th century, transitioning from a residential neighborhood to a district lined with fashionable hotels, upscale stores, and brothels. Post-1870, the district became a hub for wholesale trade, featuring cast iron warehouses characteristic of today’s SoHo, an acronym for “south of Houston Street.”

04 Jimmy at the James Hotel

Here you have a 360° view of the skyline of Manhattan. At the pool you can enjoy classically inspired cocktails with herbs from the in-house roof garden.

05 Joe & The Juice

If you want to charge your batteries with fresh juices for a short time, we recommend “Joe & The Juice”. There are different areas to sit and the juices are really awesome!

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Best Cafés in Soho NYC

If you don’t want to necessarily dine-in, you can always check out some SoHo cafes . There are artisanal tea and coffee shops and bakeries throughout the neighborhood and are great places to visit for a quick break.

01 12 Chairs

The name of the 12 Chair comes from the beginnings of the once small café, which only had 12 seats. Here you will find delicacies from Israel with a successful mix to the Russian cuisine. Sounds confusing, but it is super delicious. Very popular both for brunch and dinner.

02 Butler Bakeshop & Espresso Bar (SoHo)

Butler in SoHo NYC is the local gem renowned for its delectable breakfast, lunch, and everything in between. Indulge in freshly prepared meals and scrumptious baked goods, complemented by the finest espresso sourced from the esteemed artisans at Intelligentsia.

03 Chobani Joghurt Bar

This greek yoghurt bar is definitely one of NYC’s best. Here you will find everything that is organic and natural. As one of the most famous yogurt companies in the US their philosophy is that you cant beat natural ingredients, so they don’t try to. It’s definitely the perfect place to relax and recharge your batteries after a nice stroll through SOHO.

04 Citizens of SoHo

Our next stop brings us to Citizens of SoHo, where the warmth and charm of an Aussie neighborhood cafe meld seamlessly with the bustling energy of New York City. Open for brunch all day, Citizen’s embodies the feeling of a close-knit community amidst the sprawling metropolis, where locals gather over steaming cups of coffee and delightful meals.

Citizens first opened its doors in Chelsea in 2016, born from the shared vision of co-founders Justin Giuffrida and Andrew Geisel. Justin, from Melbourne (the world’s cafe capital), and Andrew, from the sunny Gold Coast, dreamt of bringing an authentic Australian cafe experience to the Big Apple while working together in an NYC coffee shop.

For food recommendations, I urge you to try their Famous Smashing Avo, a gluten-free and vegetarian-friendly dish that features avocado tossed with feta and lime, served on a thick-cut multigrain toast and garnished with pickled onion, radish, pumpkin seeds, and beetroot hummus.

If you’re in the mood for a sweet indulgence, their Banana Bread French Toast is a must-try. It’s an elevated take on the classic, featuring maple banana bread French toast adorned with caramelized bananas and mascarpone. Drizzles of miso butterscotch and sprinkles of black sesame soy powder add a unique flavor twist, and a garnish of fresh mint leaves provides the perfect finishing touch. 

05 Dominique Ansel Bakery

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SoHo Stores: Shopping in SoHo

Because of the high number of designer stores in SoHo , this district quickly became one of the most famous places to live and arguably the number one destination for shopping in New York City . If you’re looking for the latest trends, creative and stylish fashion, then make no mistake about it, this is the neighborhood to go to. You can also find well-known stores such as:

• Zara (503 Broadway)
• Adidas Originals  (115 Spring Street)
• H&M (591 Broadway)
• Nike  (529 Broadway)
• Louis Vuitton  (116 Greene Street)
• Prada (575 Broadway)
• Moncler (99 Prince Street)

We also recommend checking out the Converse Speciality Store (560 Broadway) as well. They have good deals for our favorite casual Converse shoe and they have a “design your own Converse” corner where you can be creative and are able to decide how your shoes should look like.

SoHo also has a famous brand called  Woolrich  (125 Wooster Street). You can buy your warmest winter jacket here for 20% less compared to its European stores. A little further down Spring Street, Mercer Street and Prince Street, you will find the Apple Store (103 Prince Street) and Free People (99 Spring Street) with more stores to satisfy your needs.

The Best Boutiques in SoHo

In addition to mainstream stores, boutiques in SoHo are cleverly curated shops that cater specifically to their customers. Boutique shopping in NYC is a great way to find unique pieces that you won’t necessarily find in bigger department stores. SoHo invites you to discover little creative shops, ran by young New Yorkers who sell their handcrafted products.

SoHo in New York is a lot more than just the big names of fashion magazines . Narrow alleyways, side streets, and sales carts on the sidewalks have a variety of special gifts and memories that you can purchase for a great deal.

Your SoHo shopping experience will be a memory that you’ll never forget, that’s for sure. Our personal tip – check out the MoMa Design Store on Spring Street. New York City has a lot of MoMa stores, but we think the one in SoHo is the best one. Another tip – visit SoHo during the week because the weekend can be really busy.

My Recommendation: Check out this article:

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Best Galleries in SoHo

For the longest time, SoHo has been a key element of the New York art scene. Because of extremely high rent prices in the area, most of the galleries have now moved to areas like Chelsea . However, SoHo still offers great art galleries that you can visit if you’re interested in it.

One of the best galleries in SoHo is the Drawing Center on Wooster Street. They extended the space by another 50% making it even more worth visiting. Some other interesting galleries are 287 Spring (287 Spring St) or Eden Gallery (470 Broome St). During your walk around SoHo, you’ll see many other spaces that could tickle your fancy.

01 Arcadia Contemporary

02 brooke alexander gallery.

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Best Hotels in Soho NYC

Staying in SoHo has many advantages. You’ll always be surrounded by some of the best atmosphere, bars, restaurants, cafes, and shops in NYC. If you decide to stay in the neighborhood please check out these amazing hotels.

01 11 Howard, New York, a Member of Design Hotels

5 stars | Indulge in luxury at 11 Howard, New York, a Member of Design Hotels, conveniently located near Soho, Bowery, Chinatown, and Little Italy in Manhattan. This stylish hotel offers complimentary WiFi throughout and features a chic bar for unwinding after a day of exploration.

Guest rooms boast Scandinavian-inspired décor and unique artwork, complemented by modern amenities like a flat-screen TV. The hotel’s French restaurant, designed in collaboration with renowned restaurateur Stephan Starr, promises an exquisite dining experience. With a 24-hour front desk, guests can enjoy seamless service throughout their stay. Conveniently close to landmarks like One World Trade Center and the 9/11 Memorial & Museum, 11 Howard provides easy access to Manhattan’s attractions.

02 Courtyard by Marriott New York Manhattan / Soho

3 stars | Just a short stroll from Greenwich Village, this Courtyard New York Manhattan offers comfortable, air-conditioned accommodations and convenient amenities including Table 181 restaurant, a Starbucks outlet, and a fitness room. 

Rooms at Courtyard New York Manhattan SoHo are spacious and feature a flat-screen TV, complimentary WiFi, and tea/coffee-making facilities. Each room also includes a work area. Conveniently located near Houston Street underground train station, the hotel provides easy access to nearby attractions such as the Empire State Building.

03 Crosby Street Hotel

5 stars | In my opinion, the design hotel “Crosby Street Hotel” is one of the most beautiful hotels in all of New York. Like “The Mercer”, it is located in trendy and exclusive SoHo in the direct vicinity of the Museum of Modern Art Design (MOMA). The area is perfect for going out, shopping and eating!

The 86 rooms and suites are super-stylish. The rooms are large, high, open and bright. The interior – for which Kit Kemp is responsible – offers a wonderful contrast to the loft-like windows , which are huge and reach down to the floor. Everything looks modern, but not without warmth. An absolute design highlight! The Crosby Bar & Terrace offers high standard food at any time of day – the cocktails in particular have a very good reputation.

04 JG Sohotel

3 stars | Located in New York’s vibrant SoHo district, JG Sohotel offers comfortable, air-conditioned rooms equipped with cable TV. Situated just over a mile from the National September 11 Memorial & Museum, and within easy reach of attractions like the Flatiron Building and The Highline Park, this non-smoking property provides convenient access to the city’s landmarks. 

Guests can enjoy free WiFi and city views in select rooms, along with private bathrooms featuring showers and hairdryers. Bed linen and towels are provided for added convenience. Nearby attractions include One World Trade Center, NYU – New York University, and Brooklyn Bridge.

05 ModernHaus SoHo

5 stars | The ModernHaus (formerly known as the James Hotel) is located in SoHo and only a few blocks from another popular hotel, The Dominick. Being located in SoHo, you’ll have access to some of the best stores in the world. The ModernHaus has a nice rooftop pool with amazing views.

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Is SoHo worth visiting?

This NYC neighborhood is, without hesitation, absolutely worth visiting . It’s filled with a variety of shopping stores, art galleries, restaurants, and the cast-iron architecture which SoHo is known for is always great to look at. Aside from the many shopping opportunities, it’s also the neighborhood for many celebrities and figures.

A lot of them stay in this area when they visit New York City. For example, Rihanna was spotted staying at the Mercer Hotel . On any given day, you’re most likely to spot a celebrity or a model if you look hard enough. Actually, you might even walk by one and not even notice. Because of its popularity and demand, Soho is one of the most expensive neighborhoods in the city.

Nearby Neighborhoods

SoHo is an amazing place to visit and is one of the best places to visit in Manhattan . It’s definitely an area that tourists should check out. Once you’re finished with SoHo make sure to swing by the nearby neighborhoods below.

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Similar Neighborhoods to SoHo NYC

If you enjoyed SoHo, below are similar neighborhoods that we think you’ll enjoy. Also, if you’d like to check out the areas with a  guided tour, make sure to look into our favorite walking tour of Little Italy, Chinatown and SoHo .

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What does SoHo stand for?

SoHo is short for South of Houston Street. Houston Street is a big street in Lower Manhattan that goes from Hudson River to East River. Fun Fact: In this case Houston is not pronounced like the city in Texas but more like “how-ston”.

Where is SoHo NYC?

SoHo NYC is located in Lower Manhattan. Since SoHo in this case is an acronym for South of Houston Street the name already suggests that its located in the South of Houston Street. SoHo is close to Little Italy and Chinatown, as well as Hudson Square and Greenwich Village.

What to see in SoHo NYC?

In SoHo you find many galleries so it’s the perfect neighborhood for art fans. Moreover there are some really nice restaurants and cafes in SoHo. For all ice cream lovers there is the Ice Cream Museum located at 558 Broadway in SoHo. This neighborhood is also famous for it’s cast iron architecture.

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What to Do in SoHo NYC

And why you must visit.

With its many tourist attractions, as well as its cool vibe and gorgeous cast-iron architecture, SoHo is definitely worth visiting!

And, this post is a guide to things to do in SoHo, including where to eat, shop, and see art.

I also include a sample itinerary, family-friendly activities, and things to do at night.

To write this post, I relied on the extensive experiences that I and my fellow local tour guides of Free Tours by Foot have of SoHo.

We lead dozens of guided walking tours through the streets of SoHo every week, guiding hundreds of visitors.

And, in the video below, Tour Guide Katie takes you on a virtual walk through the neighborhood.

And we also run the popular NYC Travel Tips Facebook group.

We asked our roughly 200k members to share their pleasant surprises in SoHo.

Read what they had to say. We used some of their suggestions for this post.

Our group is made up of locals, like our tour guides, veteran NYC visitors, as well as newbies to the city.

Now, without further ado, let's get to the good stuff!

• Plan Your Visit
• Things to See and Do
• Places to Eat
• Things to Do in NYC
• Where to Stay in NYC
• NYC Neighborhoods Guide

Is SoHo Worth Visiting?

You can stroll its charming narrow, historic "cobblestone streets" (they are actually Belgium block streets) lined with art galleries.

The shopping is unrivaled and fits all budgets, with both designer boutiques and chain stores.

The food scene is interesting and there is always some kind of cultural activity to enjoy at night!

SoHo is also a fantastic neighborhood to stay in for tourists!

What Does SoHo Stand For?

SoHo stands for So uth of Ho uston Street.

The acronym was coined by Chester Rapkin, a city planning commissioner who published a report in the 1960s called “The South Houston Industrial Area”.

SoHo is located in Lower Manhattan and can be reached by multiple subway lines.

SoHo's boundaries are Houston Street in the north, Canal Street in the south, 6th Avenue in the west, and Crosby Street in the east.

How to get here:

You can use this Google Map , but how you get here depends on where you are going, as there are several subway stations scattered around SoHo. (Read about SoHo’s history below).

We visit SoHo every day on our SoHo, Little Italy, and Chinatown Tour as well as a few others. See our live schedule and let us take you here.

Several NYC subway lines run through parts of SoHo.

• C train to Spring Street Station
• N/R trains to Prince Street Station
• B/D/F/M to Broadway-Lafayette Station
• 6 train to Spring Street Station
• A/C;  J/Z, N/Q/R trains to Canal Street Station

We have 2 posts on the NYC subway that are very handy:

• Which MetroCard to Buy
• Navigating the Subway System

By Bus: M1, M20, M55

TIP:  Many hop-on-hop-off tourist buses  stop near SoHo.

How Much Time To Spend Here?

Give yourself at least 2 hours to stroll around, window-shop, and grab a pastry and espresso.

Our self-guided walking tour , created by one of our tour guide locals, should take you about 90 minutes if you don't stop often. You can use it for free on your phone or download our audio tour.

With shopping, popping into art galleries, and a meal, you could easily spend half or a full day in SoHo.

See our sections below on things to do , art galleries , shopping , and where to eat .

SoHo Itinerary

This itinerary can be followed in any order, depending on when you go. In the daytime, enjoy lunch, or in the evening, have dinner.

Explore the streets of SoHo. Spend an hour or two walking around admiring the beautiful architecture. Do some shopping.

Have some amazing pizza at Lombardi’s  and then visit some art galleries .

In the evening, see an inexpensive musical or theatrical performance .

For an in-depth experience, check out our GPS-led audio tour you can take any time, day or night.

Here's a sample.

We also have a downloadable self-guided tour of SoHo .

Top Attractions and Activities in SoHo

Take a Sightseeing Tour

We offer a daily, pay-what-you-wish walking tour of SoHo, Little Italy, and Chinatown .

If you cannot take our tour, try our GPS-led audio tour or our free self-guided tour of SoHo any time, day or night.

We also have a SoHo and Nolita Shopping Tour . For shopping suggestions, see below .

There are other paid tours of SoHo that may interest you, such as a photography tour or a pizza tour, and some are free with tourist passes .

Admire the Cast-Iron Architecture

SoHo is known worldwide for its beautiful, impressive cast-iron buildings.

With over 200 cast-iron buildings in the district, SoHo's Cast Iron District has the largest concentration of these buildings than anywhere else in the world.

Learn more about Soho’s cast-iron architecture from our GPS-led audio tour or our downloadable Self-Guided Tour of SoHo .

See Great Street Art

New York is known for its great street art.

SoHo is one of the top neighborhoods to see both permanent works of street art as well as random spray-paint art and sticker art.

Keep your eyes open while walking around SoHo as its sidewalks, building exteriors, and even lamp posts are covered with artistic surprises.

To see the best examples of street art, consider taking our Manhattan Street Art Tour , a 2-hour tour that includes the SoHo neighborhood and nearby neighborhoods.

We showcase the hidden street art that you just might walk by without noticing.

Visit Art Galleries

There are too many galleries in SoHo, NY to list them all. We do have a list below of some of the best galleries to visit.

If you walk along West Broadway between Houston Street and Spring Street, you'll find close to a dozen art galleries to pop into.

A must-see is The Earth Room . It's best described in pictures than words!

Here are some others we recommend:

• Eden Fine Art Contemporary & Pop Gallery
• DIA: The Broken Kilometer
• The Leslie-Lohman Museum of Art (LGBTQ)
• The Drawing Center
• Center for Italian Modern Art - CIMA
• Storefront for Art and Architecture
• SoHo Gallery for Digital Art
• Find more galleries here .

For even more ways to see great art for free, read our post on free museums , as well as our guide to free things to do in NYC .

Grab a Bite at the Storied Fanelli Café

Located at 94 Prince Street, the land Fanelli’s sits on can be traced back to 1644.

With many owners of the centuries, the Fanelli family purchased the business at 94 Prince in 1920.

During Prohibition, Fanelli’s was a ‘speakeasy’. Today you can have a drink there without breaking the law!

Note: The Fanelli Cafe is a stop on our self-guided tour of historic bars of NYC.

Experience the Cronut

Dominique Ansel Bakery at 189 Spring Street is the birthplace of the world-famous Cronut, a croissant-doughnut hybrid.

Created in 2013, this unique pastry innovation is trademarked by its creator, Dominique Ansel and pastry fans around the world have made it the most virally talked about dessert item in history.

If you want to try one, you’ll have to get there early, since they sell out fast!

For recommendations on other places to eat in SoHo, see the restaurant section in this post below.

Museum of Ice Cream

This is not your average museum! Spread out across 25,000 square feet over three floors, the Museum of Ice Cream is all about delighting your senses. 

Jump in the Sprinkle Pool – a swimming pool filled with ice cream sprinkles! Slide down a 3-story slide to get unlimited ice cream in different shapes and flavors!

This museum will make your kids happy campers - and if you like ice cream, you’ll be pretty happy yourself!

Sloomoo Institute

What kid doesn’t love slime? At the Sloomoo Institute, your kids can explore 8,000 square feet of interactive experiences all related to slime. 

They can sink their hands in more than 30 vats of scented slime, take a slime shower, design their own slime and much, much more!

Children's Museum of the Arts

A wonderful interactive museum featuring a clay bar, media room, and more. Open 10 am - 5 pm. It is free on Thursdays.

TIP: Read our post on free museums  for more kid-friendly museums that won't cost you a thing.

The New York City Fire Museum

This unique NYC museum strives to educate the public about the history and cultural heritage of the fire service of NYC.

Many of the exhibits are geared toward fire prevention and safety education to the public, especially children.

Kids can play with fire equipment dating back to the 1800s!

The museum is open 7 days a week (except major holidays): 10 am-5 pm

Tickets: $10 Adults | $5 Children | $8 Students, Seniors, Firefighters, AAA members (with ID) | Free for children under 2.

Vesuvio Playground

Lots of climbing structures, plenty of swings, and in warm weather a 3’ (1 m) pool and sprinklers.

See our master list of things to do with kids in NYC for dozens of activities, playgrounds, museums, attractions, and more that are kid-friendly.

Movie and TV Locations in SoHo

Many movies and TV shows have been filmed in SoHo. Here are two of the most famous:

Ghost - 102 Prince Street  This is where Demi Moore, Patrick Swayze, and Whoopi Goldberg filmed the 1990 movie Ghost.

Sex and the City - Louis K. Meisel Gallery at 141 Prince Street.

This gallery was used as the art gallery in which the character Charlotte worked.

TIP: Die-hard SATC fans, check out our Sex and the City self-guided tour and  how to visit Carrie Bradshaw’s apartment .

Things to Do at Night

SoHo has several places where you can see inexpensive Off-Broadway theater.

• SoHo Playhouse - quality theater for reasonable prices
• HERE - hybrid live performances in theatre, dance, music, puppetry, media, and visual art.

Be sure to check our post about how to get cheaper tickets on Broadway and Off-Broadway shows and plays .

• Film Forum - independent films as well as classics. Fantastic retrospectives
• Angelika Film Center - screens well-known independent movies
• City Winery -  A full-service restaurant and winery that also has live performances.
• Bowery Ballroom - Though east of SoHo in NoLita, it's worth checking out for top alternative bands.
• Ear Inn - Live music here on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Sundays. Ear Inn is a stop on our self-guided historic bars of NYC tour .

Bars and Lounges

From designer cocktails to bars with free shots and craft beer, you can find a lot in SoHo.

• Crosby Bar - an elegant bar in the Crosby Street Hotel
• Botanica Bar - a basement bar with live music
• JIMMY - a rooftop lounge with a great view

Check out our post on other things to do at night in NYC .

Restaurants and Other Places To Eat

The dining options listed below are all family-friendly, though the menus at high-end, expensive restaurants may not be ideal for most children.

Inexpensive $

• Ben's Pizza - corner of Thompson and Spring. (Scenes from Men in Black II were filmed here!)
• Chobani Shop - 152 Prince St. Mediterranean yogurt bar from the Chobani brand.
• Black Burger - 386 Canal St. Great burgers, curly fries, and milkshakes. Limited seating but you can take your food to go and sit on a bench in nearby Duarte Square.

Moderate $$

• Dean & Deluca  - 560 Broadway. A true SoHo original, Dean & Deluca opened in 1977. They sell sandwiches, salads, and fresh fruits.
• Lombardi’s - 32 Spring Street at the corner of Mott Street. The perfect way to finish your tour of SoHo is to eat at America’s very first pizzeria. Lombardi’s serves only pies and is CASH ONLY. It is very much worth it!
• Cupping Room Cafe - 359 W Broadway. Comfy atmosphere for sandwiches, salads, and especially good brunches.

Expensive $$$

• Balthazar - 80 Spring St. Worth the splurge for their seafood bar and steak frites . Also, croissants to die for. They are also known for a great brunch.
• MAMO - 323 W Broadway. Upscale, yummy pasta, and other Italian classics.
• Blue Ribbon Brasserie - 97 Sullivan St. New and traditional American prepared at the highest quality.

Pastries and Desserts

• Birdbath Bakery - 160 Prince St.
• Dominique Ansel - 189 Spring St.
• Georgetown Cupcake - 111 Mercer St.
• Balthazar Boulangerie - 80 Spring St.

Shopping in SoHo

Shops along the narrow streets of SoHo are mostly fashion designer stores with hefty price tags.

You can find Chloe, Miu Miu, Diane von Furstenberg, Moschino, and many many more.

If you are interested in high-quality products from independent merchants, try our SoHo and Nolita Shopping Tour .

Broadway between Houston and Canal is lined with clothing shops and has dozens of stores to get the latest and trendiest sneakers and shoes at reasonable prices.

See our long list and map of familiar chain stores  below .

Some unique shops to check out are:

MoMA Design Store  - 81 Spring Street

Creative and innovative products, some practical, like bags, glasses, and household items - all with a unique design.

They also carry knick-knacks, clothes, and jewelry. Of course, art books and posters can be found here.

TIP: Find out how to visit the Museum of Modern Art for free or at a concession  here .

Housing Works Bookstore and Cafe - 126 Crosby St

Housing Works Bookstore is more than a bookstore. Its mission since opening has been to fight the dual crises of homelessness and HIV/AIDS. 

Every item in this large shop is donated, and 100% of profits go to fund Housing Works' lifesaving services.

The bookstore has a fantastic selection and the cafe is a fun place to relax or enjoy a free and low-cost event offered throughout the week.

The Evolution Store - 687 Broadway

A most unusual store filled to the brim with natural history collectibles, and artifacts, like framed butterflies and insects, fossils, skeletons, and seashells, all beautifully kept.

Kids will find this store fascinating.

MUJI SoHo - 455 Broadway

Popular Japanese retailer with minimalist products, from stationery, travel gear, and clothing including apparel & home goods. Affordable and fun.

Apple Store   - 103 Prince Street

Stop in to recharge your phone, use their free WiFi, or use their restroom. Or just sit and relax for a while.

Chain Stores

• Adidas Originals Flagship Store
• AEO & Aerie Store
• Banana Republic
• Bloomingdale's
• Club Monaco Soho
• Converse Flagship Store
• Desigual New York Soho
• J. Crew Men
• Lady Foot Locker/Foot Locker
• Lucky Brand
• Lululemon Men's
• MAC Cosmetics
• Rag & Bone
• Steve Madden
• The North Face
• Urban Outfitters
• Victoria's Secret

History of SoHo

The land encompassing modern-day SoHo was marsh and forest land until Dutch Settlers established farms in the area in the 1640s.

An early Dutch map, the Manatus Map of 1639, shows plantations, roads, and structures in this area. A large portion of the land was owned during the 1660s by Augustus Herrman.

When he died, his brother-in-law, Nicholas Bayard, inherited the property, making him the largest landowner in Manhattan. (Bayard Street in Chinatown is named after Bayard).

By the late 1700s, large farms were being sold and subdivided in response to the growing population and urbanization of the City.

In the early 1800s, Broadway was paved and wealthier residents of the city began to build homes in the area to escape the increasingly crowded lower part of Manhattan.

By the 1850s and 60s, many fashionable hotels such as the famous St. Nicholas and premier department stores such as Tiffany’s, Lord & Taylor and Brooks Brothers had opened up.

Theaters and casinos sprang up along Broadway and the area became a hub of nightlife while the side streets were lined with expensive brothels.

In the 1870s and 1880s, the streets to the east and west of Broadway underwent a dramatic change when industry came to town.

This explosion of commercial activity prompted wealthy residents to flee the area and move further north of Manhattan.

Industrial growth also prompted the widespread use of cast iron to erect new factories in the district.

Approximately 250 cast-iron buildings stand in New York City and the majority of them are in SoHo.

It is these cast-iron buildings that give SoHo its distinct and stunning appearance.

Cast iron was an American architectural innovation and was cheaper to use for facades of buildings than stone or brick.

Cast iron is also pliable and easily molded so architects and builders could create intricately designed patterns in the Classical French and Italian styles while saving money.

In fact, many of the stone columns you will see on the ground level of cast-iron buildings are in fact cast iron painted to resemble stone.

Another advantage of cast iron that led to major changes in how buildings were made (and ultimately altered who and what resided in the neighborhood) was its strength.

The stronger construction allowed for window frames to be taller allowing for more sunlight into the interior of the buildings.

This was ideal for factories and industrial companies which benefited from this free source of lighting.

It was the advent of steel as a major construction material that brought an end to the cast-iron era.

Not only did cast iron disappear, but so did the higher-quality industry. From the 1910s to 1950s, SoHo’s beautiful buildings housed cheap, wholesale textile companies known as the "rag trade”.

Many factories illegally employed minors and immigrants for little pay to work in horrendous conditions known as ‘sweatshops’.

Numerous fires broke out in these factories and SoHo gained the nickname “Hell’s Hundred Acres.”  

Eventually, even these factories shut down and moved elsewhere in the city and SoHo became an abandoned industrial wasteland.

By the late 1960s unknown artists just starting their careers, cheap rents, huge spaces, and great light, made these former factories attractive.

Some of the first artists to move into SoHo were Donald Judd, Claes Oldenburg, and Carl Andre.

Other up-and-coming artists flocked to SoHo like Andy Warhol, Jean- Michel Basquiat and street artist Keith Haring and this urban wasteland became a hip, avant-garde destination.

It’s estimated that SoHo was home to about 2,000 artists by the early 1970s and by 1973 there were 33 art galleries.

The area had become so run-down and empty that city officials began discussions of the construction of a lower Manhattan expressway that came to be known as the LOMEX project.

LOMEX would have ripped through much of the heart of lower Manhattan and the historic buildings of SoHo would be demolished to make way for new housing construction.

Historic preservationists began to petition for SoHo to be designated as a protected historic district and in 1973, the SoHo-Cast Iron Historic District was created.

You can tell which streets are included in the district as they have brown street signs rather than the normal green signs.

SoHo’s significance in history has also been recognized nationally as it is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and was declared a National Historic Landmark in 1978.

By the mid-1970s the enormous size of the lofts and the charm of the narrow streets paved with Belgium blocks and lined with gorgeous buildings invited real estate developers to buy up buildings and rent prices skyrocketed.

By the mid-1980s, designer boutiques, chic restaurants, and art galleries opened and SoHo remains a fashion and art capital of the world.

Today, SoHo is one of the top travel destinations in the world. It is definitely a neighborhood you do not want to miss in NYC.

Related Posts:

• Top NYC Attractions
• Things to Do in Tribeca

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The best things to do in Soho, New York

There are a ton of fantastic things to do in Soho, New York—a downtown destination overflowing with great food, unforgettable art and a constant flow of cool new pop-up experiences.

Believe it or not, there are many other fun things to do in Soho that aren’t simply emptying your bank account at our favorite places to go shopping in New York . From its hip art galleries to the incredible New York restaurants that line the loft-filled streets , check out our top recommendations for things to do in Soho, NYC right now. (And no these activities don’t include being interviewed by strangers for TikTok–though that may very likely happen too).

RECOMMENDED : The complete guide to Soho, New York

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Things to do in Soho, New York

1.  Hotel hop for breakfast and lunch

Even if you’re not actually staying in Soho, there’s no reason you can’t enjoy the fruits of its hotels. Kick things off at the sultry Mercer Hotel , where Sartiano’s recently expanded its menu offerings to include breakfast. Fill up on hearty offerings like overnight oats and house-baked bread before hitting the pavement for a few hours of local shopping and sightseeing. Once your stomach signals that it’s time for another meal, pop into the Arlo SoHo for lunch at Lindens , where after so much time on the neighborhood’s crowded streets, you’ll welcome the lush and open oasis the space provides. The food is stellar too, made up of seasonal new American fare like carrot ravioli cooked in pancetta brown butter and striped bass served with grilled fennel, scallops and salsa verde.

2.  Enjoy a midnight meal at SoHo Diner

• Restaurants

A survivor from the pre-pandemic era, this contemporary 2020s all-day diner is solid from breakfast at 7am through last call around 2am. Bring a group of friends or a good book to sidle up in a retro-style booth for freshly shucked oysters, a Montauk-sourced tuna melt, matzo ball soup and an epic banana split. Craft cocktails are also served (and highly recommended). 

3.  Check out New York’s only LGBTQ Museum

• Things to do

Slip into the Leslie Lohman Museum of Art for a bit of queer culture in SoHo. This gallery-style museum has seasonal exhibits, plus events like talks with artists, progressive panels, performances and more. IDNYC cardholders can get a free year-long membership.

4.  See a show at City Winery

• price 2 of 4

Unabashedly grown-up and yuppie-friendly, this slick club launched by oenophile Michael Dorf, founder of the Knitting Factory, is Manhattan’s only winery, as well as a 350-seat concert space. Acts tend to be on the quiet side, but that doesn’t mean the shows lack bite. 

5.  Indulge in some of the city’s best sushi at BondSt

Up until 50 years ago, sushi was nearly unheard of in the U.S., but NYC changed all of that as new restaurants serving sushi and sashimi quickly moved from novelty to coveted weekly meals. Since then, competition has been fierce for the rankings of the city’s best sushi bars, and as a result longevity is scarce amongst them. It’s telling then that BondSt , who entered the fray in 2008, has remained such a neighborhood staple for so long. The menu here balances the traditional with inventive takes on Japanese favorites, like the seared tuna with foie gras, and the chef’s choice omakase, which changes nightly.

6.  Treat yourself to gelato at Sant Ambroeus

Sant Ambroeus , which first opened in Milan in 1936, is perhaps the best candidate for bridging the divide between Soho and Little Italy that we can think of. The gelateria’s menu options are undoubtedly decadent, so come with your sweet tooth in tow–and trust us when we say you deserve! Standouts include the Paradiso, a sophisticated strawberry sundae topped with housemade whipped cream and semisweet chocolate shavings, and the eponymous Sant Ambroeus, which is their take on a cafe mocha (available in both hot and iced).

7.  Indulge in creative treats at Dominique Ansel Bakery

• price 1 of 4

Dominique Ansel honed his skills as executive pastry chef at Daniel for six years before opening this American and French patisserie. Caramelized croissants, miniature pastel meringues and madeleines make up the sweet selections at the counter, in addition to Ansel's madcap creations like milk shot glasses made from chocolate-chip cookies and frozen s'mores on a stick. But the café also serves savory offerings, like avocado toast, quiche, and traditional panini.   

8.  Visit America’s First Pizzeria

Known as the oldest pizzeria in New York and likely the first-ever pizza joint in America, Lombardi’s is a mainstay that still relies on the now-banned coal ovens to make a crisp pie. Dating back to 1905, this corner side restaurant on the edge of Little Italy is certainly worth a visit for its historic legacy and still excellent pizzas. Add coal oven-roasted red peppers on top of your pie for a special treat. 

9.  Shop at the MoMA Design Store

• Design and interiors
• Midtown West

A must for design fans, the museum’s stand-alone retail arm assembles an impressive array of contemporary furnishings and gifts, including sculptural vases, clocks, kitchenware and gadgets.

10.  Peruse Housing Works Bookstore Cafe

• Toys and games

Housing Works Bookstore Cafe is an extraordinarily unusual and endearing place. The two-level space—which stocks a range of literary fiction, nonfiction, rare books and collectibles—is a peaceful spot for solo relaxation or for meeting friends over coffee or wine. All proceeds from the café go to providing support services for homeless people living with HIV/AIDS. The premises also host an interesting array of literary events.

11.  Experience The Color Factory

• West Village

The Color Factory is home to 14 immersive exhibits that engage all the senses in an exploration of the art and science of color. The museum works with local artists, designers and creatives to bring the designs to life. Even if you’ve visited before, expect to see new surprising and delightful activities in the autumn iteration. The all-ages experience focuses on inspiring moments of joy through art.The Color Factory experience also packs plenty of photo opportunities into its 20,000-square-foot venue. While you can definitely take the standard selfies, Color Factory makes it even easier to get fantastic photos. You’ll get a customized code when you come in, then you can use that code at cameras throughout the space allowing you plenty of time to get a picture-perfect pose. 

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10 Best Things to Do in SoHo NYC + MAP

Home | Travel | North America | United States | New York | NYC | 10 Best Things to Do in SoHo NYC + MAP

There are lots of awesome things to 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 see in Manhattan , SoHo is well worth a visit, even if you only have a few hours to spend here.

SoHo stands for South of Houston Street, and it’s a Lower Manhattan neighborhood  nestled between Little Italy and Hudson Square. It’s 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’ll like 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 local art galleries is one of the quintessential activities in SoHo , so if you’re into art, I recommend it. There are a few galleries in particular that are popular with artists, collectors, and enthusiasts.

First, the Eden Gallery showcases all kinds of contemporary pieces, so you’re bound to find 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 interesting place to go in SoHo , especially if you like conceptual art. This large-scale, long-term installation was created in 1977 by sculptor Walter de Maria, who used 250 cubic yards of earth to fill the 3,600ft² space. It’s an example of land art and explores the relationship between nature and man-made works.

Jeffrey Deitch is also worth mentioning, 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

Along with its vibrant arts scene, SoHo offers plenty of great places to eat. One of the best places in SoHo to get a delicious meal is Mercer Kitchen , which specializes in contemporary 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 spot I recommend is Boqueria Soho , which serves Barcelona-style tapas. Coming here is a fun thing to do in SoHo with friends since you can share all kinds of small plates like patatas bravas , tortilla española , pan con tomate , Manchego cheese, and Ibérico ham. The restaurant also has yummy paella , churros con chocolate , and albóndigas (meatballs).

For something more laid-back, check out Chobani SoHo , a café based on Chobani’s line of yogurt. Lombardi’s is another excellent spot, and while it’s actually in Little Italy, it’s right next to SoHo. It’s been open since 1905, and its Neapolitan-style pizza is one of the best foods to eat in NYC .

Finally, The Ear Inn is the oldest bar in the U.S. to continuously serve alcohol, and it’s housed in a building from 1817. Along with beer, wine, and cocktails, 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 is a wonderful neighborhood in Manhattan to appreciate the performing arts, and seeing a play or musical , a fun thing to do in SoHo at night . There are two places in particular that I recommend if you want to take in a movie or an off-Broadway show .

First, the Film Forum is an old movie theater that originally showcased independent films when it opened in the 1970s. Today, it has four cinema rooms where you can see 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 get tickets on the website or at the box office.

The other spot is SoHo Playhouse , an off-Broadway theater, and the former home to the New York Academy of Theatrical Arts. It has a regular line-up of musicals and plays, and it hosts the International Fringe Encore Series every year, so it’s a must-see in SoHo for thespians.

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

With its restaurants, galleries, and theaters, the only thing missing from SoHo is a shopping district . Well, in the area between Wooster Street and Broadway, between Houston Street and Canal, you’ll find all kinds of stores and retailers.

For example, there are lots of high-end shops and luxury brands where you can treat yourself to some new clothes, shoes, or accessories. Just a few of the big-name brands here include Polo Ralph Lauren, Louis Vuitton, Chanel, Gucci, Patagonia, Birkenstock, Nike, and ZARA.

Some other highlights include the Apple Store and Tiffany & Co., which has divine 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 you aren’t a shopaholic, browsing 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’re not sure what to see in SoHo or you’re short on time, I recommend taking a sightseeing tour. I like this 2-hour tour in particular since it goes to the best places in SoHo as well as Little Italy and Chinatown.

First, you’ll check out SoHo’s historic Cast Iron District and see the beautiful architecture along Spring and Greene Streets. Your guide will point out notable structures like the E.V. Haughwout Building and the Old Police Station, which is now a private home but still has its early 20 th -century Beaux-Arts design.

You’ll also see the cast-iron balustrades and rusticated arches of 421 Broome Street. The penthouse of this five-story property once belonged to Mary-Kate Olsen, and it’s where Heath Ledger spent his final moments.

The next part of the tour takes you to the neighboring areas of Little Italy and Chinatown . Learn about the mobster 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.

Finally, in Chinatown , you’ll hear the story of the Bloody Angle at Doyers Street, one of the most famous streets in NYC , where several murders took place in the 1920s and 30s. Your tour guide will also take you to an old opium den before ending the tour at Columbus Park. This is one of the best tours in NYC , especially since you can experience three neighborhoods in one visit.

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

Whether you spend your day in SoHo shopping, looking at 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 owned by French pastry chef Dominique Ansel, who creates all kinds of scrumptious baked goods. You can find traditional French treats like butter croissants and chocolate eclairs, along with more unique creations like chocolate chip cookie shots, frozen s’mores, and banana bread tiramisu.

However, Dominique Ansel is most well-known for the cronut, a croissant-donut hybrid. Introduced in 2013, the cronut quickly became a food craze, and it’s still a popular menu item and one of the best foods in NYC to try. It has the flakiness of a croissant with the sweetness of a donut, so if you want to try it, this is the place to go.

Of course, the bakery offers lots of variety, like savory sandwiches, quiches, and hot and cold drinks. So, for a cheap thing to do in SoHo with friends or your partner, take a dessert break at this iconic bakery.

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

I already mentioned the Cast Iron District a bit when talking about the sightseeing tour through SoHo. If you’d like to explore this historic attraction in SoHo , below are some highlights to consider.

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 than others.

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

Another must-see in SoHo is the Singer Building on Broadway . This Art Nouveau-style office building was created 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 Cable Building at 611 Broadway is on the corner of Houston Street and spans a full block, so you can’t miss it. It was built in the early 1890s and features a two-story arcade with iron spandrels, ornate moldings, and a façade of brick, stone, and terracotta. Its sculptural elements, like the copper lion’s faces, stand out.

Finally, 101 Spring Street is a beautiful cast-iron building from 1870, which now serves as an artist’s residence and studio.

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

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

The pieces here explore themes of gay rights, queer expression, and other LGBTQ+ issues. As one of the oldest institutions in the country to preserve LGBTQ+ art, the Leslie-Lohman Museum contains works by well-known painters and lesser-known artists.

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

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, too, so if you’re looking for things to do in SoHo during the day or when it rains, check out the collection.

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

When the sun begins to set over the city, the fun doesn’t have to end. Going out for drinks is one of the best things to do in SoHo at night , especially as a couple or with a group of friends.

This neighborhood offers several beautiful places to get cocktails and enjoy a lively atmosphere. Without a doubt, one of the best places in SoHo for drinks 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 fun places to go in SoHo are the Spring Lounge and the Broome Street Bar . The Spring Lounge has been a popular dive bar since the 1920s and boasts a vintage look with an extensive list of beers, wines, and liquors. 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 looking for things to do in SoHo, New York with kids, you can’t go wrong with a day at the museum. This neighborhood has several fun museums for children and teens to explore their creativity and learn something new.

First, the New York City Fire Museum has an impressive collection of artifacts, photos, and memorabilia related to the history of the FDNY. Some of the objects date back to the 1650s, although you can also see modern-day fire-fighting equipment. The museum is 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 SoHo attraction for the kids is the Museum of Ice Cream . This selfie museum features bright colors, dessert-themed rooms, and fun props that create awesome photo ops. It’ll appeal to all ages, so it’s one of the best museums in Manhattan  to visit with kids or friends.

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

Where to stay in SoHo, NYC

Now that you know the best things to do in SoHo, New York , here are a few of the top hotels in the area. If you’d like more accommodation options, you can check our complete guide on where to stay in NYC .

• Soho 54 – This trendy property is one of the best cheap hotels in Manhattan and features a beautiful rooftop terrace and a 24-hour gym. The rooms are lovely, and some of them have private balconies.
• Arlo SoHo – This hotel in downtown NYC has a great location in SoHo. It has a restaurant, a rooftop bar, and comfortable rooms, although bunk rooms and suites are also available.
• Crosby Street Hotel – As one of the best hotels in Manhattan , this 5-star property in SoHo boasts gorgeous rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows. It also has a terrace restaurant, a courtyard, and a garden.

Map of SoHo, New York City

Finally, here is a map of all the best places in SoHo that I mentioned, as well as the hotels I recommend. Use this map to plan your visit and organize your itinerary with all the SoHo attractions you want to see.

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

Ascen Aynat

2 replies on “ 10 Best Things to Do in SoHo NYC + MAP ”

Hey Ascen, how are you? Trust you are keeping well. My name is Wilma from Africa.I’m planning a concert trip for 50 guests with some stays in New York and I saw your blog. Can you suggest any places for us? We will be shooting so hopefully a classy place that’s not unecessarily expensive. Thanks.

Hi Wilma, That sounds so exciting! Check out our post on the best hotels in New York City . We also have a guide to the best luxury hotels in NYC , and some of them aren’t as expensive as you’d think. 🙂

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30 Sensational Things To Do In SoHo, NYC

From cobblestone streets to cast iron fronts, we're here to give the inside scoop on all the best spots around SoHo!

Table Of Contents

Best Things To Do In SoHo

Best restaurants in soho, best bars in soho, best hotels in soho, best cafes & bakeries in soho, best nightclubs in soho.

The gorgeous neighborhood is defined by its picturesque architecture, celebrity sightings and restaurant staples. With so much to explore it’s hard to know how to narrow it all down. That’s why we’ve created the ultimate guide on SoHo, so you can experience all the best that the neighborhood has to offer.

Situated [so]uth of [Ho]uston Street, sits one of NYC most popular neighborhoods with tons of things do! From the endless amount of shops to galleries and immersive experiences, here’s what to do in SoHo!

1. Shopping on Broadway

Explore the iconic shopping district along Broadway, where you’ll find a mix of high-end brands, flagship stores, and unique boutiques! From Urban Outfitters and H&M to Nike and Kith , SoHo is renowned for its fashionable offerings. Alongside the main Broadway strip, be sure to crawl throughout Spring, Canal, and Prince Street to find the best shopping in NYC !

2. SoHo Art Galleries

Believe it or not, SoHo and the neighboring Tribeca area have tons of vibrant galleries that any art enthusiast should check out! They’re free, and have constantly rotating exhibitions that are always worth check out. Check out some of our favorite SoHo galleries below:

• Eden Gallery – 470 Broome St
• Allouche Gallery – 77 Mercer St
• Park West Gallery – 411 W Broadway
• David Nolan Gallery – 560 Broadway
• Artists Space – 38 Greene St, Floor 3

3. Little Paris

Another technically NoLita spot, but the borders are all a bit of blur, right? Little Paris runs on Centre Street between Broome Street & Grand Street, showcasing French culture with bakeries, wine bars, boutiques and more. Learn all about its history here .

Where:  Centre Street in Nolita/SoHo (between Broome & Grand St.)

4. Museum of Ice Cream

If you’re looking for a sweet activity in the heart of SoHo, head on over to the Museum of Ice Cream! This interactive museum specializes in all things ice cream, including tons of interactive installations, photo opps, and of course a bar with ice cream floats, curated cocktails and boozy milkshakes !

🍦 Buy your tickets to the Museum of Ice Cream here!

Where:  558 Broadway, New York

5. Color Factory

Step into the Color Factory, where your senses are sure to go on adventure. With a focus on color, this immersive art experience allows visitors to dive into over a dozen different experiences that will expand their boundaries of perception. From a confetti-filled park to an endless blue ball pit, you can spend hours in here playing and exploring! Learn more here .

Where: 251 Spring St

6. Eat a Cronut® at Dominique Ansel Bakery

The now global sensation, Dominique Ansel Bakery, is home to a multitude of famous items including the Cookie Shot, Frozen S’more, Blossoming Hot Chocolate, and of course, the most known, the Cronut ® . The croissant/donut hybrid changes flavors every month, and it never repeats! Trust us, this one’s worth the hype.

Where:  189 Spring St

Downtown’s SoHo neighborhood is full of culinary gems that are perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a fancy sit-down restaurant or need a slice of pizza to fuel on your shopping spree, there’s plenty of options! Check out our favorite places below.

7. Balthazar

This iconic French brasserie  has held down its Spring Street location since 1997 and continues to be one of our favorite places to eat. Although a reservation can be tough to snag, you won’t be disappointed if you get a table because the fresh seafood and shellfish are immaculate. Don’t forget about the fresh bread and pastries baked fresh every day at Balthazar Bakery next door.

Where:  80 Spring St

8. Prince Street Pizza

Though Price Street Pizza is technically in NoLita, we think it’s worth mentioning since it’s just a quick walk from anywhere in the neighborhood. If you’re searching the area for the best pizza , you will not be disappointed with the now very popular Square Pepperoni Slice . You may have to wait in line, but that’s fine because you can study the walls of celebrity photos on the wall who have granted the stamp of approval.

Where: 27 Prince St A

9. Antique Garage

From its funky decor to its inventive menu, Antique Garage is your secret weapon to impress someone. Take them here and we promise they’ll think you know all the coolest spots in town.

Where:  41 Mercer St

10. Fish Cheeks

It’s hard to find a Thai restaurant that tops Fish Cheeks, and their family-style entrees will go straight to your soul. Their flavor-packed dishes like Coconut Crab Curry , Rainbow Trout , and so many more makes going back another time worthwhile. Check out their full menu here .

Where:  55 Bond St

11. La Mercerie

If you haven’t already been, you’ve definitely seen this dazzling corner on Instagram! La Mercerie offers elegance, extravagance, and refinement from their aesthetics to their menu.

Where:  53 Howard St

12. Thai Diner

Step into this kitschy-cool, diner-style Thai setting and you’ll be delighted to all kinds of classic house specialities, woks, soups, and more! It’s super no frills and makes for the perfect comfort food.

Where: 186 Mott St

In between your shopping spree you deserve a cocktail to unwind! And these spots, ranging from dive bars to fancy cocktail bars are the best in SoHo to grab a drink!

13. Jac’s on Bond

Although a little more on the NoHo side, Jac’s on Bond is a fairly new cocktail bar where you can sip a drink while admiring iconic images of hip-hop artists adorning the walls. Inspired by the 80s/90s NYC music scene, this cozy bar feels super  cool , complete with a pool table creative cocktails, and a nostalgic feel.

Where: 26 Bond St

14. Fanelli Cafe

Fanelli’s Cafe is literally an NYC institution and if you’re not people watching during mid-day, you can try your hand at steak frites past midnight. This historic establishment on Mercer & Prince Streets is open until 1 am and is one of the best places to spot celebs bouncing around the city.

Where: 94 Prince St

15. Sweet & Vicious

The frozen margaritas are addicting & refreshing—but beware, they’ll sneak up on you! You can order them in a variety of flavors including classic, strawberry, peach, mango, guava, pomegranate liquor, and jalepeno tequila. The massive backyard also works perfectly for team drinks!

Where:  5 Spring St

Nothing beats a cocktail at the JIMMY on a nice sunny NYC day. Not to mention, it’s located above Veranda so you can head right up once you’ve finished down there.

Where: 15 Thompson St

17. Kenn’s Broome Street Bar

Unlike most bars in SoHo, Kenn’s Broome Street Bar brings the divey-vibes that are rather rare to find in the neighborhood.

Where: 363 W Broadway, New York

18. Little Ways

This insta-worthy spot invites you to sink into their velvet furniture with a glass in hand. Don’t be fooled by the beautiful bar, their food menu means business. We’re still dreaming about the crab linguine!

Where:  343 W Broadway

Looking for somewhere to stay while you’re in the area? These hotels offer stunning rooms, hotel bars, suite packages and more! Plus, they’re walking distance from everything on this list!

19. SoHo Grand Hotel

The SoHo Grand Hotel is modern class with a magnificent bar and salon that are complimented by a vinyl spinning DJ. For a night’s stay, whether you’re visiting NYC or booking a staycation you’ll be sure to love their spacious suites.

Where:  310 W Broadway, New York

20. NOMO SoHo

Most familiar for its twinkling green archway, NOMO SoHo offers more than a quality stay. From its photogenic design to its kitchen, you’ll want to move in permanently!

Where:  9 Crosby St., New York

21. Modernhaus SoHo

Home to the aforementioned JIMMY rooftop, Modernhaus SoHo has all the luxuries you could ask for. Whether you’re taking “a swim at skyscraper level” or enjoying the 11,000 square feet of outdoor space, this hotel provides a perfect haven in the neighborhood.

Where:  27 Grand St., New York

22. Arlo SoHo

Catch views of the Hudson River and the Freedom Tower from this year-round rooftop!

Where:  231 Hudson St 11th Floor, New York

Before you get to sightseeing, start your day with a classic New York bagel and coffee from one of these cute cafes and bakeries! SoHo is lined with them, and these are our personal favorites.

23. Sadelle’s

An absolute classic for brunch, Sadelle’s has become a NYC icon in just a matter of a few years. Be sure to order their beloved bagels and sticky buns!

Where:  463 W Broadway

24. Pi Bakerie

This under-the-radar Greek bakery is one of SoHo’s best kept secrets. From mouthwatering Nutella baklava, Spanakopita Pi, Salmon Koulouri, fresh juices, and our personal favorite, the Greek Yogurt Bar, you can’t go wrong stopping here for a quick bite before work. 

Where:  512 Broome St, New York

25. Flipper’s

If you have yet to indulge in the viral Japanese soufflé pancakes, head over to Flipper’s immediately . We recommend the Strawberry Flipper’s Pancake.

Where:  337 W Broadway Unit A, New York

26. Lauduree

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Escape to Paris with this hidden garden, providing the perfect atmosphere for a cappuccino and one too many macarons.

Where:  398 W Broadway, New York

27. Ground Support

You’d easily miss this hole in the wall on West Broadway if it weren’t for the cutest dogs hanging around outside every day! Definitely a local hangout, Ground Support is a one-stop shop for your morning coffee, bagel, and much needed endorphins from adorable animals.

Where:  399 W Broadway, New York

Maman has multiple locations across NYC, however, SoHo’s/NoLita’s Little Paris location might just be the best. From quaint indoor seating to a hidden back patio, it’s a great place to do remote work, chat with a friend, or catch up on some reading.

Where:  239 Centre St., New York

For when you want to dance a little late at night, these nightclubs are full of disco balls, dance floors, and good drinks!

29. Paul’s Casablanca

NYC nightlife legend, Paul Sevigny, is responsible for the exclusive, swanky joint, Paul’s Casablanca, with co-owners Brian McPeck and Dominick D’Alleva. Notorious for a hard door, your best bet for entry is in the outfit—think all black and chic!

Where: 305 Spring St., New York

30. Butterfly SoHo

For those looking for a more chill vibe, Butterfly SoHo is the perfect medium. Feeling like conversing? Cozy into on of their booths! Need to shake those hips? Head to the dance floor!

Where: 60 Thompson St

TYPE IN YOUR SEARCH AND PRESS ENTER

10+ Fun Things To Do In SoHo NYC (From A Local)

By Jessie Festa. This post on SoHo NYC attractions and experiences contains affiliate links to trusted partners and is sponsored by Beside-U Handbags.

Looking for fun things to do in SoHo NYC ?

Then you’re in the right place!

One of my favorite ways to spend a day in New York is choosing a neighborhood and exploring it without a plan.

Which is why, on a brisk winter day with nothing on my calendar, I decided to spend a day wandering SoHo and making fun local discoveries.

Sure, I’d been to the trendy NYC neighorbohood before, but only to visit one or two SoHo attractions at a time. On this day, I wanted to wander the neighborhood fully with my curiosity leading the way.

On that note, if you’re looking for best things to do in SoHo NYC on a day trip, here are some recommendations from a local.

😍 SoHo Top Picks: Short on time? Some of my top recommendations for SoHo NYC include: 🏨 Accommodation: – NoMo SoHo – Crosby Street Hotel – Arlo SoHo ➡️ Click here for a full list of SoHo NYC hotels . 📍 Tours: – Private NYC photo tour (including SoHo) – SoHo, Little Italy & Chinatown Walking Tour in New York – New York In One Day Guided Sightseeing Tour ➡️ Click here for a full list of tours in SoHo . 📸 SoHo Photoshoot: Want beautiful photos taken of you in scenic New York spots like SoHo? Book a styled, custom shoot that tells your unique story through an NYC Influencer Shoot or Professional New York City Shoot . Email [email protected] with inquiries. 💸 Save Money:   Save money while exploring top attractions in SoHo and the rest of NYC with a  New York CityPASS  or a  New York Explorer Pass . ☔ Safety: While SoHo is safe, it’s still smart to pack travel safety essentials . One top pick is the She’s Birdie Personal Safety Alarm , which is TSA-approved and can help scare away potential attackers. Other recommendations include Clever Travel Companion Pickpocket-Proof Garments and Speakeasy Travel Supply Hidden Pocket Scarves .

Table of Contents

Exploring SoHo NYC In Style

Before we dive into this Manhattan travel guide , let’s talk about the day’s look.

Being that SoHo is a style and design hub for the city, this was also the perfect excursion for trying out my new backpack and crossbody bag from Beside-U Handbags.

Beside-U Handbags  is a company I recently partnered with, as I’m in love with their concept. Many brands claim to mix style with functionality, but I’ve found most rarely live up to their promise. For the last two years I’ve been using an Osprey backpack, extremely comfortable and with decent space, but far from attractive.

After receiving their Arroyo Leather Trimmed City Backpack and the Hemet Leather Trimmed Travel Crossbody Bag I was pretty shocked to find that Beside-U actually had more room and more pockets than the dedicated Osprey travel brand, complete with bold and bright colors.

The bags also showcase features even the most rugged travelers can appreciate, like:

• RFID-blocking pockets large enough to fit an entire wallet. These pockets keep thieves from using electronic card readers and capturing your credit card and identification information.
• A lightweight, water resistant design (each bag is roughly 1 pound or less)
• A 100% Ripstop Nylon fabric (select areas with leather trim) to keep the bags from tearing.
• Custom hardware details like a clip-on whistle dangle with a pretty double layer Beside-U logo — perfect for my fellow solo female travelers wanting to stay safe.

Each Beside-U bag also comes with its own unique features. For instance, the Arroyo Backpack offered two extra large external pockets for my 24-ounce water bottle, as well as two interior water bottle pockets if needed, though you can use them for other gadgets, as well.

Inside I fit my DSLR, a huge stack of promotional postcards for my tour company, a deodorant stick, my MacBook Pro (there’s a 13″ padded laptop pocket), an extra camera lens, an external camera flash, and my three lipsticks (hey, this was SoHo in style).

The smaller Hemet Crossbody Bag, which I stored inside the backpack, held my cash, coins, ID, credit cards, a wallet, keys, MetroCard, iPhone, pen, notepad, and full-sized paperback copy of Orange is the New Black .

And that was just on the inside!

There was also two large external pockets and one small external pocket I didn’t even use.

Basically, these bags offered way more space than one would need for a day, or even a long weekend, with style and identity protection to boot. As a photographer, I loved the padded external pockets that made it easy to switch lenses.

What Is SoHo NYC?

SoHo is a trendy New York neighborhood that stands for “South of Houston Street.”

While it was once known for its artistic vibe, today it has a more luxe feeling, with hip shops, eateries, and bars. You’ll still find art galleries in SoHo, though they tend to be more on the upscale side.

SoHo is also known for its cast-iron architecture. In fact, the SoHo–Cast Iron Historic District — which is both on the National Register of Historic Places and a National Historic Landmark — features the world’s largest collection of full and partial cast-iron buildings with about 250 examples!

For this reason, it’s a smart idea to book a New York City architectural tour that explores the neighborhood if you have the time.

Where Is SoHo NYC?

SoHo is located below Midtown Manhattan. Its boundaries are roughly Houston Street to the north, Canal Street to the south, Crosby Street to the east, and Sixth Avenue to the west.

The Best Things To Do In SoHo NYC

On that note, let’s dive into some of the most unforgettable things to do in SoHo NYC. There is so much to explore here, and you truly will never be bored!

1. Percolating At Maman

Weekends in SoHo NYC can be rough with the subway, especially coming from Brooklyn.

I ran into this country-inspired cafe clearly needing a coffee (or a whiskey), and the barista was extremely friendly consoling me with stories of his own sad subway tales.

This may not sound noteworthy, but friendly, un-rushed service in New York City is not always the easiest to find.

My Maman Americano was easily one of the best I’ve ever had, a slight thickness thanks to the added almond milk. They also serve a sweet yet floral Lavender Hot Chocolate.

If you’re joining for brunch you can grab a seat in the back room; otherwise, post up at the window bar and people watch or sip under wall hanging baskets and dangling vines.

This is one of the most Instagrammable places in New York City !

2. Inspired By Street Art

Looking for unique places in NYC ? Or things to do in SoHo right now, no matter what time it is?

While SoHo’s cobblestoned streets and upscale shopping give off a quaint vibe, the neighborhood is actually quite eclectic, with modern galleries, funky design shops, and edgy street art.

If you’re looking for free things to do in SoHo , simply wandering around will give you plenty of opportunities to stumble upon colorful works, although there are a few points of interest to add to an itinerary.

The Bowery Mural is a giant wall at Bowery and E. Houston Street that’s featured rotating pieces since 2008.

In the adjacent Little Italy neighborhood is The Lisa Project , which adorns Mulberry Street with al fresco works.

It’s one of the best things to do in SoHo!

3. Continue The Creativity In Local Galleries

One of the many reasons why New York is so popular is the culture, and along with Chelsea (Manhattan) and Bushwick (Brooklyn) , SoHo is known for its plethora of art galleries. Exploring these is one of the top SoHo activities you can add to your itinerary.

Strolling streets like Greene, Wooster, West Broadway, and Spring is where you’ll find most of them, and it’s easy to simply wander around without a plan and stumble upon great finds.

One particularly quirky gallery is The New York Earth Room (141 Wooster Street), a giant plot of dirt on the second floor of a narrow stairway.

It may sound boring — or just plain weird — but it’s surprising how moving the quiet space can be, not to mention you’ll undoubtedly twist your brain in knots wondering how much someone is paying in rent just to store dirt in SoHo. Plus, it’s one of the interesting non-touristy things to do in NYC .

Another notable gallery is  Westwood Gallery NYC (568 Broadway), a large and inviting space with rotating contemporary works in a large array of mediums.

There is also  Allouche Gallery (115 Spring Street), one of my personal favorites as it houses contemporary pieces by iconic artists like Keith Haring, thought-provoking works like the Rolling Stone’s tongue logo made to look like a kneeling woman by Ron English, and atypical mediums like multi-layered glass sculptures by Brooklyn artist Dustin Yellin.

If you’re ever in the area, make sure to add this to your list of things to see in SoHo. And if you’re traveling solo, know that visiting the galleries is one of the top things to do in New York by yourself .

4. Refuel At Some Great Restaurants In SoHo

There are so many delicious options when it comes to places to eat in SoHo, like:

• Socarrat . This is an excellent Spanish paella and tapas bar offering tasty sangria to pair. It’s also one of the most Instagrammable restaurants in NYC .
• Emilio’s Ballato . This old-school Italian eatery serves up incredible, well, anything with red sauce.
• Tacombi . Their yummy tacos are served on organic corn tortillas.
• Boqueria . This Spanish tapas spot is also a great place for bottomless brunch in NYC !

Nearby to the SoHo restaurants mentioned above is a bar called Tom & Jerry ‘s that offers a cheap happy hour with $5 beers and well drinks if you’re craving some booze.

5. Shop In SoHo For Fashion & More

No other neighborhood in NYC has a better reputation for shopping than SoHo.

You’ll find luxury brands like Chanel, Louis Vuitton, Prada, Coach, and Marc Jacobs, as well as popular commercial retailers like H&M, Topshop, Bloomingdale’s, and Uniqlo (amazing for budget-friendly adventure travel gear , by the way).

That being said, I recommend digging around for the independent shops for a more culturally immersive experience. A few recommendations for shopping in SoHo include Meg, Mystique Boutique NYC, and Lingo.

Also don’t miss The Market , a flea market showcasing local designers and artists as well as vintage vendors.

6. Get Books On A Budget

I love to read books. Real, paper-made, binded, printed books. The problem is real books are often real expensive, especially compared to their Kindle counterparts.

Not at Housing Works Bookstore , where almost every title I picked up seemed to range between $5-$15.

I ended up with some cool photo-centric books, one on bicycles ($8.50), one on cats ($10), and a “blind date with a book” (books wrapped in paper so you can’t see their titles, with literary clues written on the front).

I learned the reason the books are so budget-friendly is that Housing Works is a volunteer-run organization focused on ending AIDs and homelessness, so my purchase went to a good cause.

It’s definitely one of the more inspiring SoHo attractions to make a stop at, and also a great spot if you’re looking for the best New York souvenirs that also give back. And if it’s a rainy day in NYC , it’s a great place to spend some time perusing titles and relaxing with a novel.

Note I also love perusing the Housing Works Thrift Store when exploring Greenwich Village .

7. Savor Free Tea Samples In A Funky Space

While I like tea, I would never choose it over coffee. Until I discovered T2 Tea , a shop so bright and bubbly you’ll be pulled in even if you don’t mean to stop inside.

I was attracted to the bright pastel colors emitting from the shop like a moth to a flame, and even more enticed by a long table with aromatic complimentary samples like a budget backpacker to a free…well, anything.

The shop focuses on matcha, and the woman working the serving station was more than happy to explain what this meant. When making matcha, the tea stems are removed and the leaves ground into a fine green tea powder to maximize antioxidant benefits.

Also, fun fact:

Did you know Japanese Samurai drank matcha before going into battle due to the tea’s energizing properties? Pretty neat.

The shop is a sensory kaleidoscope of colors, tastes, sounds, and scents — along with the samples they have beautiful tables showcasing open tea tins for you to smell — and I instantly felt uplifted just being in there.

8. Sip An Art-Inspired Pick-Me-Up At La Colombe Coffee

I’ve seen cafes do latte art before, though never have I been asked what design I would like on my coffee.

I told the java artist to surprise me, and was promptly given a creamy latte adorned with a floral and heart design.

La Colombe Coffee  is also home to the “draft latte,” a coffee and milk concoction that has a Guinness-like texture, as well as the coffee version of the “Black and Tan,” 50% pure black cold brew coffee and 50% draft coffee.

9. Indulge Your Sweet Tooth Without Guilt At Chobani Cafe

One of my favorite places to eat in SoHo is Chobani Cafe (yes, Chobani as in the yogurt).

The brand’s owner is Turkish, so the cafe — which has a decent amount of seating, by the way — features a Turkish menu of simit, Mediterranean dips, and sweet yogurt treats.

My go-to is the Spinach & Garlic Dip laced with Kalamata olives and sumac and served with simit chips, followed by the Fig & Walnut Yogurt drizzled with clover honey.

Bonus: 10% of the cafe’s profits go to charities that help provide nourishing food to underserved communities.

10. Visit Bars In SoHo (Fun Things To Do At Night!)

Grabbing late night drinks is one of many fun things to do in SoHo at night .

For something historic, head to the Ear Inn, a dive bar that has been serving drinks since 1817. It’s also open late for those looking to enjoy NYC after midnight .

Love wine? Visit La Compagnie des Vins Surnaturels for an impressive wine list and delicious small plates.

And if you’re looking for a fun night out and love a good cocktail, try The Ship. Started by alums of Little Branch and Please Don’t Tell, the drinks at this barge-themed watering hole are fantastic — like the “Marie Adrienne” made with silver tequila, mezcal, amargo de chile, lime, and fresh blood orange. Yum!

When it comes to what to do in SoHo , you can’t go wrong with the recommendations above!

Tours In SoHo NYC

One of the best ways to explore the many things to do in SoHo is to book a tour with a local guide. Some top picks for this include:

• SoHo, Little Italy & Chinatown Walking Tour in New York
• Private Tour Of SoHo, Chinatown & Little Italy
• New York In One Day Guided Sightseeing Tour
• New York At Night Bus Tour
• A Day In Manhattan Bike Tour

➡️ Click here for a full list of tours in SoHo .

Hotels In SoHo NYC

Looking to stay overnight in SoHo? There are so many incredible local hotels, like NoMo SoHo , Arlo SoHo , and the Crosby Street Hotel .

➡️ Click here for a full list of SoHo NYC hotels !

Prefer self-contained stays? 

➡️ Click here to check out unique local rentals !

You can also use this map to search for local SoHo stays and experiences:

And if you’re interested in living in a hotel in NYC , there are numerous extended stay hotel options too!

New York City Travel Insurance

When visiting New York City — or anywhere else in the world — it’s wise to get travel insurance.

One of the  best travel medical insurance for travelers  is SafetyWing as they’ve got a large network and offer both short-term and long-term coverage — including coverage if you’re traveling for months as well as limited coverage in your home country.

Additionally, SafetyWing is budget-friendly and offers $250,000 worth of coverage with just one low overall deductible of $250.

Click here to price out travel insurance for your trip in just a few clicks .

What fun things to do in SoHo NYC would you add to this list?

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Love the red color of that bag, really bright! You can stop all the traffic in Soho when you want to cross the street, just wave it. Your post was very informative and I loved the pictures. Great job and thanks for the suggested recommendations for places to visit. I definitely will take up on them.

@John: Definitely get the Lavender Hot Chocolate! 🙂

I use to go to Soho when I was in my late teens…over 20 years ago. I loved it!!! Thanks for posting the photos. It looks much different. I love the little red hand purse.

@Wendy: My parents grew up in the city and they always talk about how things have changed so much. I believe SoHo used to be a bit more focused on the arts?

Those sound like awesome ways to enjoy Soho! Pinned and shared.

Nice information article..

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An Insider’s Guide to the Best of SoHo in New York City

by Grace C.

Last Updated: April 19, 2024

SoHo is one of the most famous neighborhoods in New York City . It’s also one that exemplifies urban renewal: SoHo (which stands for “South of Houston,” pronounced HOW-stin) transformed from a past of industrial squalor… into a vibrant artistic community… into today’s neighborhood, one bustling with art galleries, exclusive boutiques, chic hotels, and trendy restaurants .

As its name states, SoHo is located south of Houston Street. That’s just below Greenwich Village, for the uninitiated. The historic district’s other borders are Canal Street to the south, Crosby Street to the east, and Sixth Avenue to the west (though some New Yorkers might insist it goes west all the way to the Hudson River).

Table of Contents

History of SoHo

The area between Canal and Houston Streets was rural until the early 19th century, when it became a residential neighborhood:

• In the 1850s, the area grew into a fashionable district, and Broadway was lined with stores like Lord & Taylor , Brooks Brothers , and Tiffany & Co .—along with posh hotels, theaters, and casinos (and infamous brothels on the side streets).
• By the 1870s, residents and nightlife had moved uptown. Textile and dry-goods factories sprang up in their place. But industry left the area throughout the early 20th century. By the 1950s, the desolate neighborhood was known as “Hell’s Hundred Acres.”
• In the 1960s, artists, who’d been priced out of Greenwich Village, moved into SoHo’s abandoned industrial lofts and converted them into art studios and homes. An avant-garde artists’ community flourished, producing galleries, exhibitions, and performances of new theater, dance, music, and video.
• Gentrification soon followed. The (expensive) neighborhood is now teeming with luxury condos, high-end retailers, art galleries, and stylish bars and restaurants.

Plan your visit to SoHo in New York City

To get to SoHo, take the N or R subway to Prince or Canal St., the 6 to Spring or Canal St., the B, D, F, or M to Broadway/Lafayette, or the C or E to Spring St.

Visitors are drawn to SoHo for three primary reasons: its historic architecture (particularly the incredible cast-iron buildings), its famous art scene, and the shopping . All three can be found throughout the district. Here are some highlights.

Architecture in SoHo 

SoHo is home to some of the world’s finest cast-iron buildings. Built primarily between the 1870s and 1890s as factories and warehouses, these buildings feature impressive cast-iron decorative elements (like columns, cornices, and balustrades). The prefabricated pieces were created in molds at foundries and ordered by catalogue (sort of a 19th-century, industrial IKEA ).

The pieces were bolted onto plain masonry facades and painted to resemble stone, a far quicker and cheaper process than actual sculpture. Characteristics of the buildings include large open interiors supported by central columns and big plate glass windows (useful during the gaslight era).

Some of the finest buildings in the district include :

• “The Queen” of Greene Street ( Greene Street, 28-30 ): Built in 1872, make up a six-story warehouse with a large mansard roof and ornate dormers. It is surrounded by other cast-iron treasures in varying design styles.
• The Haughwout Building ( Broadway, 488 ): At the northeast corner of Broadway and Broome Streets, it’s the oldest complete cast-iron facade in the city (1857). Ringed with 92 sets of arched windows and Corinthian columns, this historic building held the nation’s first passenger elevator. Peek into the 2nd-floor windows to see the open loft floor plan and rows of interior columns.
• “The King” of Greene Street ( Greene Street, 72 ): This grandiose structure was built the same year as “The Queen,” and designed by the same architect, Isaac Duckworth.
• 80 Wooster Street: In 1967, this former warehouse became the site of the first artist co-op, leading to the transformation of the neighborhood. During its heyday, artists like Jonas Mekas, John Lennon, Philip Glass, and Andy Warhol all presented their works here.
•  The Little Singer Building ( Broadway, 561 ): This L-shaped building, with facades on Broadway and Prince St, is an early skyscraper (1903). Its terra-cotta sculptural details and wrought-iron tracery make it a standout.
•  The Cable Building ( Broadway, 611 ): At Broadway and Houston St. (okay, not quite in SoHo, but almost), this ornate corner building, designed by Stanford White, was the terminus for cables that ran under Broadway, pulling the streetcars up and down the boulevard (like San Francisco’s Cable Cars). The blue and white building directly across Broadway is the city’s 2nd-oldest cast-iron facade (1858).

SoHo art gallery hopping

While many artists and galleries have left pricey SoHo, there’s still plenty of art to savor, especially along West Broadway.

OK Harris ( West Broadway, 383 ) is one of the neighborhood’s most established galleries, showcasing simultaneous exhibits in a welcoming space. The venerable Franklin Bowles Galleries displays works by a few artists who you just might have heard about—including Rembrandt, Matisse, Picasso, and Dali.

Other notable locations include:

• Artists Space : One of the city’s oldest alternative galleries, it continues to support up-and-coming talent by including them in innovative group shows. 
• The Drawing Center : This non-profit gallery showcases drawings in multiple mediums, often by emerging artists.
• AFA NYC : A gallery featuring conceptual animation art, often featuring beloved animated characters like those of Dr. Seuss or Charles Schultz’s Peanuts in original works. 
• NY Earth Room : This 1977 experiential art installation features 250 cubic yards (197m) of moist, fragrant soil covering an entire loft floor, 22 inches (56cm) deep.
• The Broken Kilometer : Another long-term installation (1979, this one features 500 brass rods, laid in five parallel rows across a large loft floor.
• Morrison Hotel Gallery : This gallery features original photo prints of rock legends like Jimi Hendricks, Bruce Springsteen, John Lennon, and the Doors by some of the industry’s most acclaimed photographers. 

Exclusive galleries out of your price range? You’ll find many artists selling their work (some of merit, some merely kitsch) along the sidewalks of Prince and Spring Streets, and especially on West Broadway.

SoHo in New York City shopping

Shoppers, rejoice: Prada, Armani Exchange , Stella McCartney, Hugo Boss , Ralph Lauren , Chanel , and Bloomingdale’s SoHo are just a few of the high-end retailers found on SoHo’s streets. The area is also home to numerous designer lighting and furnishings shops.

While stores are scattered throughout the neighborhood, Broadway, Prince Street, Spring Street, and West Broadway are the primary shopping thoroughfares. Their sidewalks are also lined with street vendors selling handmade jewelry, scarves, handbags, sunglasses, caps, and even bongs.

Some notable stores to look for include Prada’s $40 million flagship, Adidas Originals (located in a converted parking garage), the MoMa Design Store , the Phaidon Store (with great books on visual arts), the quirky/creepy Evolution Store , and Stella McCartney’s Art Deco-clad store on Greene St. 

There also are plenty of great dining options in the neighborhood, including:

• Fanelli Cafe
• Pinch Chinese
• And the many bistros clustered on West Broadway between Spring and Grand Streets. 

Fun facts about SoHo

• There are 26 city blocks and approximately 500 buildings in the SoHo Cast Iron Historic District, as designated by the NYC Landmarks Preservation Commission in 1973; the area was declared a National Historic Landmark in 1978.
• Crosby, Mercer, Greene, and Wooster Streets are paved with distinctive Belgian blocks.  In some areas, the surface is quite uneven.
• Many painted cast-iron facades look so much like stone, architecture buffs sometimes carry magnets to identify which are metal or masonry.
• Many of the buildings bear the date of construction on their cornice (the top of the facade). Others feature plaques near the facade’s base designating the iron foundry’s name and date of production.
• Several loading docks, steps, and pavements are embedded with small, circular glass discs to allow natural light into basement warehouses.
• Broome Street is particularly wide (and full of traffic) because it is an important crosstown artery, connecting the Williamsburg Bridge and the Holland Tunnel. Robert Moses intended to build an elevated concrete expressway over the street, but his plan was thwarted by fierce public opposition.
• Spring Street is named for a natural spring at the location (in fact, it still runs beneath the street).  A local legend says that a well, once located at Broadway and Spring, was the grave of Juliana Elmore Sands, whose body was found floating there in 1800. Her ghost has been seen in the area, notably in 1974 when a resident reported that the apparition of a woman in mossy garments emerged… from his waterbed. That same year, the spring flooded a basement on West Broadway.
• In Martin Scorsese’s 1985 film “After Hours,” an uptight fellow becomes stranded in SoHo overnight, where he encounters a string of outrageous SoHo characters.

Update Notice: This post was updated on April 19, 2024.

About the author

Originally from Rhode Island, Grace has spent the last 25 years living in the Big Apple. With her knowledge of the best local eateries, attractions and shopping destinations across the city's five boroughs, Grace is the go-to gal for all things NYC. Whether you're a local in need of a fresh perspective or you’re new to the city, Grace loves sharing her extensive knowledge of the city.

More by Grace C.

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Best Soho NYC Guide: Tips, Where to Go and What to Do from Someone Local!

This great Soho NYC Guide will help you explore this very cool neighborhood of Manhattan! All you need to know: what to do, what to see, cool spots, where to shop, eat & more!

I remember when I first came to New York and went to Soho, I had no clue about where to go once I was there. Luckily, this Soho Guide will help you out!

Stay tuned because I’ll keep updating this Soho Guide with more content. You see something new every day!

What is Soho?

SoHo = South of Houston 😉

A very cool & historic neighborhood of Manhattan. Great spot for locals and tourists.

Brown Street Signs

Whenever you see Brown Signs, it means you’re in a historic district such as Soho!

What’s Soho NYC known for?

High-end shopping area & cast iron buildings. You have many affordable brands too.

It’s also one of the most expensive neighborhoods of Manhattan to live in.

Cast iron was very strong and a cheap way to build buildings.

Briefly, nobody wanted to live in Soho in the early years. The artists moved in because it was very cheap. Artists such as Andy Warhol , Philip Glass , Twyla Tharp , Jean-Michel Basquiat & David Bowie used to live here! Then all the high-end shops moved in, the rent went up and the artists moved out. Now is one of the most expensive neighborhoods in Manhattan! More about the history of Soho at the end of this post for those who wanna know more!

Where to Go in Soho NYC?

Soho Guide: Between Canal St. & W Houston St. and 6th Ave. & Crosby St. / Lafayette.

Soho is not only what you see on Broadway. The heart of Soho and the most beautiful streets are the ones that cross Broadway and the parallel streets 🙂

List of Soho NYC Stores: Brands You’ll See

I dedicated a separate post about this with all the stores in Soho by categories with maps. Brands like Apple, Forever 21, H&M, Victoria’s Secret, Aldo, Hugo Boss, LV, Michael Kors, Burberry, Gucci, Versace, Bogner & many more are all here!

Click here for the complete Soho NYC Shopping Guide .

• The massive & affordable brands are mainly along Broadway.
• The luxury brands are mainly between W Broadway & Mercer St. and Houston & Grand Sts.

Best Time to Go to Soho

I think the best time to go is during the week in the early afternoon at around 2pm. Mornings are fine too but I prefer going in the afternoon. In Summer , going at around 3/4pm works too since it gets dark later!

Weekends are too crowded, especially in the Summer! Winter’s fine 😉

• I’d recommend visiting Little Italy and Chinatown too since they are very close to each other & it’s easy to do the 3 of them on the same day 🙂

How to Get to Soho NYC

Nearest Subways:

• N/R/W to Prince Street.
• B/D/F/M to Broadway-Lafayette Station.
• 6 to Bleecker or Spring Street Station.
• A/C to Canal Street.

I’ve included a map below!

What to See in Soho NYC: Featured Spots

Some cool places worth to see in Soho while you walk & shop around.

Anthony Arnoux House Built in 1825

Some people say this is the “IT” House because you can spot an “I” and a “T” on the lower floor from left to right 😉

It belonged to Anthony Arnoux, a tailor and apparel merchant, & later turned into a brothel. A tiny federal-style house that remained even when Soho became an industrial neighborhood. It has been undergoing alterations since 1974 since landmark buildings have many restrictions for renovations. Read more here .

Location: 139 Greene St (between Houston & Prince Sts).

Two Surviving Federal Style Rowhouses – Built in 1819!

They were designated as landmarks by the  Landmarks Preservation Commission  on May 15, 1973, which means you can’t change the outside. They’re protected to preserve the history behind them.

Location: 83-85 Sullivan Street  (between Spring & Broome Sts).

Dominique Ansel Bakery

A very famous bakery that’s always packed. You’ll usually see a long line of people waiting outside!

It became famous for their “cronuts” that’s a mix of a donut & a croissant and cost $6 each. They always sell out fast! You can now pre-order cronuts 2 weeks in advance 😉 Click here for more info .

Location: 189 Spring Street (between Sullivan & Thompson Sts).

Famous Ben’s Pizza

This pizza place that opened in 1977 appeared in many scenes of the movie  Men in Black 2  & in an episode of  Sex and the City .

Location: Spring & Thompson Sts.

Old House from the 1800s

Location: 143 Spring Street (& Wooster St).

The 18th Century Murder that Haunted this Building

A famous murder known as the “Manhattan Well Murder” took place here in 1799. A woman was killed by her lover. Her body was found in the well with marks on the neck and water in her lungs. The well is still there! Once you enter, go downstairs on your left and walk to the back of the store. The 2 lawyers who defended the lover suspected for murder were Alexander Hamilton & Aaron Burr (2 of the most brilliant legal minds!) who were in debt with the lovers’ brother.

It’s one of the most haunted places in NYC! Scary! Neighbors claim they heard groans and rattling chains in the alley. In 2000, there was a restaurant here and the owner said that wine bottles began flying off a shelf and crashing to the floor. Creepy! Would you own this place? LOL.

Location: 129 Spring Street (& Greene St).

King of Greene Street

Its ornate, three-dimensional facade is considered the finest example of the French Renaissance and Second Empire style in the entire district. Composed of two separate buildings. Originally, it was a warehouse belonging to the dry goods dealer Gardner Colby Company.

Location: 72-76 Greene Street (between Spring & Broome Sts).

Glass Bricks

You’ll spot a few glass bricks left in SoHo that helped to bring light to the basement before electricity was invented, so people could work longer hours. Light came in from those glass circles.

Location of this pic: Broome & Mercer Sts.

E.V. Haughwout Building (1857)

The building of the World’s First Successful Passenger Elevator!

The building was designated a NYC landmark in 1965, and was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1973. Its facade was restored, and the columns re-painted to their original “Turkish drab” color in 1995. The first elevator has been removed. More info here .

Location: Corner of Broadway & Broome St. in Soho NYC.

One of the first streets to have bordellos (for rich people).

Former Police Headquarters (1909)

When this former Police Building was converted into luxury apartments, it attracted the fashion and modeling crowd on the 1990s such as Calvin Klein, Stefi Graf, Leonardo DiCaprio, Cindy Crawford, Winona Ryder, etc.

It’s located in Little Italy / Soho (in the limit of both).

Location: 240 Centre St.  (between Broome & Grand Sts).

Suggested Soho NYC Walking Route

This is just a suggestion that will help you optimize your time if you wanna visit the featured spots mentioned above & explore the neighborhood.

You can start at Greene & Houston Sts. Once there follow these directions:

• Walk on Green St . going South up to Prince St .
• Turn right on Prince St. up to Sullivan St .
• Turn left on Sullivan St. up to Spring St.
• Walk on Spring Street up to Greene St.
• Walk on Greene St (going South) up to Broome St .
• Turn left and walk on Broome St up to Centre St .
• Turn left on Lafayette or Cleveland Pl  up to Prince St.

From here you can head to Broadway or any area you want. You can also head from Broome St. directly to Mulberry St. (just 2 more blocks from Centre St !) if you’re interested in visiting Little Italy 😉

If you don’t plan on visiting Little Italy that same day, you can also start the walking route upside down.

If you’re not interested to see the Former Police Headquarters you can end on Lafayette St (a block before) and head uptown (towards Houston St) where you’ll see some cool food shops such as Jack’s Wife Freda, By Chloe, etc. 😉

I recommend visiting all those streets in the map because even if you’re not interested in seeing the “featured spots”, that’s Soho! Those streets are beautiful with all the townhouses and chic shops!

Some Tips Before You Go

• Wear comfortable shoes!
• I recommend exploring the neighborhoods first & doing shopping at the end (especially if you plan on buying a lot of stuff!), so you don’t have to carry all your shopping bags with you the whole time!
• Doing a tour vs. going on your own: I prefer going on my own because I have time to take pictures, I can go at any time I want, I can do it at my own pace without feeling rushed if I wanna stay in some area a little more time or just keep exploring around, etc.

Soho NYC Foodie

I’m working on a separate post about this but briefly, I recommend the spots below in this Soho Guide.

The 2 most touristic ones are Dean & DeLuca and Balthazar. Then you get some cool foodie tips from someone local 🙂

• For the best Coffee Shops in Soho Click here .

Dean & DeLuca

Upscale food market. Great spot for snacks and lunch on the go. No tables but a few stools!

A bit pricey!

Location: Broadway & Prince St.

Eileen’s Special Cheesecake

You must try the cheesecake at this place! You can buy mini-cheesecakes!

These are one of the best NY cheesecakes (if not the best ones!)!

Tiny spot. Few stools. More info here .

Location: 17 Cleveland Pl (between Kenmare & Spring Sts).

Amazing Greek bakery!

Great for breakfast or coffee/snacks throughout the day.

Location: Thompson & Broome Sts.

Ladurée Soho

One of the best macarons! Love them!

You can buy coffee & macarons or something sweet to go or have lunch there!

It’s a bit pricey if you plan to stay for lunch.

They have a very nice outdoor patio when the weather’s nice and the place itself is really cute!

Location: 398 W Broadway (between Spring & Broome Sts).

SOHO GUIDE: GOOD OPTIONS FOR A QUICK & HEALTHY LUNCH

Jack’s wife freda.

Good for breakfast / brunch / lunch.

Location: 224 Lafayette St. (between Spring & Broome Sts).

Good for lunch. Veggie / Vegan. Healthy & quick bites.

Good option if you’re up for a bowl.

Location: 240 Lafayette St. (between Spring & Prince Sts.).

SOHO RESTAURANTS

Really good Spanish restaurant! Great tapas!

A bit pricey.

Location: 171 Spring St. (between Thompson St. & W Broadway).

Sadelle’s

Trendy brunch spot.

Need to book a table in advance here .

Location: 463 W Broadway (between W Houston & Prince St).

Popular but very touristic spot.

Good for lunch or dinner. A bit pricey.

Location: 80 Spring St. (between Broadway & Crosby St).

Black Tap Craft Beer & Burgers

This place has unique & fun milkshakes! Great burgers.

You can experience a long wait though!

Location: 529 Broome St. (between Thompson & Sullivan Sts).

Blue Ribbon Sushi

Good option if you wanna eat sushi.

Location: 119 Sullivan St. (between Prince & Spring St.).

Upscale & popular Italian restaurant.

Very pricey!

Location: 376 W Broadway (& Broome St).

More about the History of SoHo NYC

Manhattan’s first red-light district.

When businesses moved-in in the early 19th Century, the neighborhood became increasingly middle-class. By the 1850s, large hotels and restaurants invaded Broadway. Parts of the present SoHo district, along Broadway and particularly Greene Street, were rife with prostitutes making the city’s first red-light district. So residents began migrating uptown moving out of SoHo.

Abandoned Factories & Artists Moving In

After World War II, there were many commercial concerns so businesses moved out leaving empty warehouses behind. Artists began to move into the abandoned cast iron factories during the early 1970s because it was free or very cheap. Artists felt attracted by the large lofts, high ceilings and windows, and open spaces. SoHo started to become a very chic area. Rent went up making it unaffordable for many artists to keep living here so they moved out and now is super expensive! The upscale boutiques arrived in the 1980s.

You might also want to check out:

Best areas to shop in Manhattan .

NYC Top Events by Month .

NYC Top Attractions .

Hope this Soho Guide was helpful!

Enjoy Soho in New York!

@NewYorkerTips

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NewYorkerTips

Hi there :) I'm Jess and I came to NYC to pursue my dream and I feel I'm living it every day. New York is magical and you have to be open to everything because you never know who is sitting next to you on the subway or behind you in the line of the supermarket. I decided to create this blog about NYC because I realized how many powerful tips would have helped me if I knew them before coming to the city from someone who was living in NY! So I thought that it would be awesome to share with you some tips about New York from a New Yorker. I'm going to keep updating this blog so stay tuned :)

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Top 32 Things To Do in Soho, NYC! (Unique & Fun Ideas for Every Budget!)

• Posted by by Elle-Rose
• Updated: August 31, 2023
• 10 minute read

Are you looking for things to do in Soho, NYC? If so, keep reading for all our favorite ideas!

If you’re visiting NYC, you might be looking for things to do in Soho, NYC. Well, you’ve come to the right place!

Soho is one of the nicest neighborhoods in NYC. There’s plenty to do there, from shopping, to arts, to food and sightseeing.

Soho is also one of our favorite neighborhoods in NYC, and we’ve spent many years narrowing down our list of things to do in Soho, NYC.

In this list, we’ve also included some suggestions from nearby neighborhoods too (like the Lower East Side, and Greenwich Village).

Don’t worry, every suggestion is either in the heart of Soho, or within a 10 minute walk! So, let’s get into it!

Here are our favorite things to do in Soho, NYC…

Dominique ansel bakery.

First on our list of things to do in Soho NYC, it’s visiting Dominique Ansel Bakery .

This is one of the best bakeries in the city, and it’s a stand-out choice for anyone visiting the Soho area.

This bakery were actually the great minds behind the ‘Cronut’ and you’ll find long lines each morning here, as people try to secure one of these precious commodities!

However, if you head there in the afternoon or evening, whilst the Cronuts might be sold-out, you can try all of their other baked goods, without the queues.

I recommend the caramelized croissant (pictured below)! So delicious and such a great choice for things to do in Soho, NYC.

Explore the local art galleries

Next on our list of things to do in Soho, NYC, it’s exploring the local art galleries.

One of the most charming things about Soho as a neighborhood, is just how much art there is here.

You’ll find larger galleries like the Leslie-Lohman Museum of Art and The Drawing Center, which are both fantastic…

But if you venture to West Broadway (between Prince St and Spring St) you’ll find lots of smaller galleries, each beautiful in their own right, and with free admission too. It’s a great choice for things to do in Soho NYC.

Have lunch at Thai Diner

Next on our list of things to do in Soho, NYC, it’s visiting the Thai Diner .

If you ask any local, chances are they’d rate Thai Diner as one of the best restaurants in the area.

It’s quirky, fun, and (most importantly) the food is super delicious. It’s a great choice for things to do in Soho.

Visit ‘Goods for the Study’ on Mulberry St

Our next suggestion for things to do in Soho, is visiting the cute little store called ‘ Goods for the Study ‘.

The store has two halves, but we absolutely love the side of the store tha sells pens and pencils. Look, we know this might sound a bit boring (it’s a pen shop?) but it’s so much fun.

If you loved stationery as a child, you’re going to feel so much joy looking around this shop!

There are more pens than you’ve ever seen, and you can try them all! It’s such a great choice for things to do in Soho NYC.

Read more NYC recommendations:  60 free and cheap things to do in NYC!

Visit the ‘Stick With Me’ sweet store

Next on our list of things to do in Soho NYC, it’s something perfect for anyone with a sweet tooth!

Stick With Me is a wonderful (but teeny tiny) sweet and chocolate shop, specializing in the most wonderful sweets and homemade chocolates.

The range of flavors, and the skill involved in making these little treasures, makes this place worth checking out. We guarantee you’re going to absolutely adore it.

It’s such a great choice for things to do in Soho, and you can buy them as little souvenirs for friends back home too.

My personal favorite is the passionfruit flavored candy, and their passionfruit toffees too!

Read more about exploring NYC: Top 20 most famous streets in NYC!

Little Cupcake Bakeshop

Another suggestion for anyone with a sweet tooth, this next idea for things to do in Soho is a perfect snack-stop.

The Little Cupcake bakeshop is located just on the edge of Soho, and it’s home to some of the most beautiful cupcakes you’ve ever tried!

And their cookies are amazing too!

Read more NYC food inspiration: 19 of the best cake shops in NYC!

The Fiat Cafe

The Fiat Cafe is next on our list of things to do in Soho, NYC.

If you’re looking for fun and quirky cafes in Soho, then the Fiat Cafe is going to tick all your boxes.

Locals absolutely it here, as do visitors, and it’s no surprise because the food is wonderful and the decor is charming and cozy.

It’s a lovely choice for things to do in Soho and great for a date night.

Read more NYC ideas: Our top 50 places for breakfast in NYC!

Go spectacle shopping

Soho is known for shopping, but it’s actually one of the best neighborhoods in NYC for spectacle shopping.

So, if you’re a glasses wearer, you might want to make some time for browsing the many independent glasses stores in Soho.

It’s so great to try on lots of different shapes, sizes and colors and one of our favorite things to do in Soho. Some boutiques we recommend are:

• Credo New York Eyewear
• Oliver Peoples
• MYKITA Shop New York Soho
• Silver Lining Opticians
• Selima Optique
• SEE Eyewear

Check out the local street art

Next on our list of things to do in Soho, NYC, it’s checking out the local street art.

You’ll find street art on almost every corner in Soho, and it’s worth just strolling around the area to soak it all in.

Book a slot at the Aire Ancient baths (it’s a spa!)

Aire Ancient baths are next on our list of things to do in Soho, NYC.

This is one of the best spas in New York City, and it’s truly unique too. You’ll venture underground into this magical stone haven, hidden under the city streets.

The spa consists of many different pools, with different temperatures and features.

It’s romantic, magical and definitely one of my favorite things to do in Soho, NYC.

Read more about visiting NYC: 18 best thrift stores in NYC!

Breakfast at Sadelle’s

If you can get a table, then we really recommend checking out Sadelle’s for breakfast.

I think this is my favorite breakfast place in Soho, without contest.

It’s traditional New York breakfast food, so think bagels, cream cheese, smoked salmon and other delicious things.

The smoked fish here is their specialty, and they do it to absolute perfection. It’s an amazing choice for things to do in Soho, don’t miss it!

Also, just to add: The coleslaw here, is the BEST coleslaw I have ever eaten in my entire life.

Read more NYC ideas: Where to find the best cheesecake in NYC… 20 places you need to try!

Museum of Icecream

The Museum of Icecream is our next idea for things to do in Soho, NYC.

The Museum of Icecream is unlike any other, it’s certainly not the traditional museum you’re probably used to.

Full of interactive and fun exhibitions and photo opportunities, it’s a lot of fun and definitely, somewhere you’ll want to check out!

Click here to book tickets!

Next on our list of fun things to do in Soho, it’s dining at the Soho Diner .

This restaurant is an all-day diner (they’re open until 3am!) that is decked out in the most gorgeous, fun and retro styling.

The food on offer is traditional diner food, but elevated and slightly more sophisticated than you’d expect!

And don’t get us started on their apple pie… it’s so delicious, you have to try it!

Read more NYC recommendations: Our top 23 themed restaurants in NYC

Read more NYC ideas: Where to find the best cookies in NYC!

Get a tattoo

Some of the best tattoo studios in NYC are located in Soho, so our next suggestion for things to do in Soho… is getting a tattoo!

An NYC tattoo is a perfect permanent souvenir from your big trip to the city!

Our top tip? You should look out for flash sale signs (a great way to get a reduction!).

My most recent tattoo is from Uplift tattoo in Soho , and I really recommend the experience and artists!

Take a food tour

Next on our list of things to do in Soho, it’s taking a food tour. If you want to try some local food, and try lots all in gone day – this is a great choice.

There are lots of local food tours that depart around the Soho area, and that’s primarily because this part of Manhattan is known for how much amazing food there is.

Here are some food tours I recommend:

Read more NYC inspiration: 25 best bars on the Lower East Side!

The Ghostbusters HQ (Hook and Ladder 8)

Next on our list of fun things to do in Soho, it’s finding the Ghostbusters HQ (also known as Hook and Ladder 8).

If you’re a movie fan, then seeking out this amazing movie location is a must-do!

You can’t go inside, but it’s well worth grabbing a photo on the outside, and it’s such a quick and easy pick for things to do in Soho NYC.

Read more NYC inspiration: Our ultimate guide to Little Tokyo in NYC!

Visit Prince Street Pizza

Next on our list of things to do in Soho NYC, it’s visiting THE BEST PIZZA IN NYC.

Yes, we said it. This is the best pizza in the city.

Prince Street Pizza is amazing, delicious, life-changing, you name it. Our favorite things to order are a pepperoni square, and a cheese slice. Different types of pizza, and both are equally delicious.

Seriously, please try this place. it’ll change your view on pizza forever. it’s an amazing choice for things to do in Soho NYC.

Our top tip? To avoid the queue, arrive early between 10am – 11.30am, or mid-afternoon (around 3pm).

Read more NYC food recommendations: 28 places to find the best pizza in NYC!

Find the ‘Good Luck Spot’

Need a little bit of luck? Then you need to add the good luck spot to your list of things to do in Soho.

You’ll find the good luck spot on Thompson St, where it crosses with W Houston St.

Read more NYC inspiration: 40 fun things to do alone in NYC

Have brunch at Shuka

Next up on our list of things to do in Soho, it’s crunching at Shuka .

This place is a super cute brunch place, and it’s a little more unique than a lot of brunch places in the Soho neighborhood.

You’ll find delicious middle eastern / eastern mediterranean cuisine here, and the food is packed full of flavor. It’s a great choice for things to do in Soho, NYC.

Li-Lac Chocolates

If you want to buy yourself something sweet, then visiting the cute little chocolate shop called li-Lac Chocolates is a perfect choice for things to do in Soho!

When walking into this chocolate shop you’re hit immediately with the smell of sweet, creamy chocolate. It’s like stepping into a Parisian chocolate boutique.

In their counters, they have plenty of different chocolate truffles, sweets and bars to try – and it’s simply wonderful.

Treat yourself to oysters

Have you ever had oysters in NYC before? If not, it’s next on our list of things to do in Soho, NYC.

There are actually plenty of oyster bars in Soho you can try, and we’ve listed a few of our favorites below:

• Lure Fishbar
• The Oyster Bar
• Mermaid Oyster Bar
• ZZ’s Clam Bar

Read more NYC inspiration: Where to find the best oysters in NYC (18 locations to try!)

Read more NYC inspiration: 31 awesome places for bottomless brunch in NYC

Grab a slice at Upside Pizza

Next on our list of things to do in Soho NYC, it’s grabbing a slice of traditional NYC pizza at Upside Pizza .

Grabbing a slice at Upside Pizza in NYC is one of those typical New York things to do in Soho, NYC.

Grab a slice, watch the world go by, and enjoy one of the best slices of pizza in the city.

Read more about NYC food: Where to find the best soul food in NYC

Go thrift shopping

Our next suggestion for things to do in Soho NYC, is thrift shopping!

There are some amazing thrift shops in NYC, and many of them are located in Soho or close to Soho.

The best bit about thrift shopping in the Soho area? The items tend to be really great quality and really unique finds. Some of the best finds I’ve seen have been from Soho’s best thrift stores.

Here are some specific thrift stores I recommend:

• Second Street Thrift Store
• What Goes Around Comes Around
• The RealReal
• The Re-Shop

Have brunch at Bubby’s

One of the most popular brunch spots in Soho, has to be Bubby’s . So of course, our next suggestion for things to do in Soho, is to enjoy brunch there.

Bubby’s is lovely, friendly and laid back – and their brunch selection is delicious!

If you can book ahead, we’d certainly recommend it, because Bubby’s is hugely popular. Especially at the weekend.

Sip Champagne in Sweet Rehab

If you love patisserie and pastries (and champagne), then you’re going to fall head over heels with Sweet Rehab.

This champagne and patisserie bar is for anyone who wants to sip champagne surrounded by perfect sweet treats, in a gorgeous sophisticated setting.

This is a lovely choice for things to do in Soho NYC, especially for when you need a little rest during all the sightseeing!

Read more NYC inspiration: 18 of the best restaurants in Tribeca, NYC

Take a walking tour

Next on our list of things to do in Soho NYC, it’s taking a walking tour.

There are lots of great things to see around the Soho area – and a guided walking tour is a great way to see them all.

I love walking tours because it’s a chance to see parts of the city you don’t usually see, and it’s great to have the insider knowledge too!

Admire the artitecture

One thing you’ll definitely enjoy in Soho, is just enjoying the buildings and the historical architecture.

This part of the city feels a lot different from the Downtown Business District, and also the Midtown / Times Square area, so it’s kind of nice just to wander around and soak it all in.

Cocktails at Beyond the Pale

Next up on our list of things to do in Soho, NYC, it’s cocktails!

If you want to enjoy some gorgeously designed cocktails in a sophisticated and lively setting, then we really recommend Beyond the Pale .

The selling point here, is that they have NYC’s first tequila highball machine! So make sure you try a cocktail off that part of the menu.

Head into Chinatown

Next on our list of things to do in Soho, it’s walking into Chinatown. Chinatown is only a short walk from Soho, and it invites a whole new perspective on NYC.

You’ll also find a whole new menu of food options in Chinatown, so it’s certainly worth walking over to see for yourself what it’s all about.

Read more NYC inspiration: Top 22 restaurants in Greenwich Village, NYC

Do a New York City bus tour

Many of the city’s bus tours have stops in Soho, so you’ll be able to start a NYC bus tour from the heart of Soho.

So, obviously, next on our list, is taking a bus tour of the city! You’ll depart from Soho, and arrive back after completing the full loop!

It’s great fun, and a superb way to see the city.

Visit Balthazar Boulangerie

Next on our list of things to do in Soho, NYC, it’s visiting Balthazar Boulangerie.

This is one of Soho’s most famous and recognized restaurants, and its a must-visit if you’re in the area.

Think classic, cozy and delicious french food! It’s a gorgeous place to enjoy lunch or dinner in Soho.

We figured we’d save the most obvious suggestion for last!

Soho is (of course) a pretty wonderful shopping destination, so shopping is a pretty must-do on the list of things to do in Soho NYC.

Many consider Soho as one of the best shopping districts in the city, so enjoy!

We hope this list of things to do in Soho NYC has been helpful!

Now you’ve read all our ideas for things to do in Soho, NYC, let us know which you’re going to visit first! Soho is such a great neighborhood in New York, and we know you’re going to love it!

Read more NYC recommendations: Top 15 upscale restaurants in NYC

Elle-Rose is the owner and editor of The World and Then Some! She has been a professional travel writer for over 12 years, writing for many different publications, including this one. Elle-Rose is a city break expert, and she specializes in popular locations such as NYC, London, Las Vegas and Dubai, regularly visiting to stay on top of new attractions, restaurants and hotels. Elle-Rose is super active on TikTok (@theworldandthensome), and loves filming video content in the cities she visits - so go and say hello!

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New York’s SoHo neighbourhood

What to see and do in soho.

SoHo is a very popular neighbourhood of Manhattan, located west of Little Italy . This multifaceted neighbourhood can be both modern, chic and lively, and much quieter and more relaxing in its residential part. SoHo is a must-see place for its shops and fashion boutiques, but also for its industrial buildings with atypical architecture, its museums and its art galleries.

Here is a short guide to help you learn more about this borough of New York , which is one of the places you really should not overlook when visiting the city.

The history of SoHo

In the 19th century, the area was home to an industrial zone known as Hell’s Hundred Acres .

In the late 19th century and the first half of the 20th century, the textile industry developed greatly in this area. Today, the famous Cast-iron Buildings are still there to testify to the intense industrial activity present in this district during the industrial revolution.

It was in the 1960s, when these industrial buildings were abandoned, that many artists moved to SoHo. For them, these large buildings, which were offered at a very good price on the real estate market, were perfect places to establish a studio or an art gallery. By 1973, the area had become a historic neighbourhood , and many industrial buildings were completely converted into lofts and studios; and by 1990, SoHo had become the district of choice for contemporary artists, with over 300 art galleries .

As a result of SoHo’s revival, real estate prices rose again, and many artists were forced to move to other areas where real estate was more affordable, such as Brooklyn. Today, the SoHo district has become a very touristy place in New York.

It is especially known for its many luxury boutiques , and has become one of the city's favourite shopping areas.

It is possible to discover this area during a guided tour, which will also allow you to discover the Chinatown and Little Italy districts – that are just next door. If you're part of a group, this can be a really good value for money and you'll enjoy exploring the neighbourhoods with a local guide who will explain the fascinating stories behind every corner of these three neighbourhoods 🙂

Where is SoHo located?

SoHo is a Manhattan neighbourhood that owes its name to its geographical location. In fact, SoHo is located south of Houston Street (SOuth of HOuston St.). The name has therefore no relation to the London district of Soho. The district is bounded on the north by Houston Street, on the south by Canal Street, on the east by Crosby Street and on the west by 6th Avenue and the Hudson River.

The neighbourhood's atypical architecture

As soon as you enter the streets of SoHo, you will notice the characteristic architectural style of the buildings in the area. SoHo is one of the places with the most cast iron buildings in the world .

Today, most of these huge buildings have been refurbished and are now home to lofts of much more reasonable size. This rich architectural heritage has earned SoHo a National Historic Landmark designation and a place on the National Register of Historic Places .

During the industrial revolution, the price of cast iron fell dramatically, to the point that it became a cheaper material than stone or brick. This new manufacturing method, with the production of standardised parts, not only reduced construction costs, but also reduced the risk of fire. As a result, it was widely used both for factory structures and facades, and for residential buildings. These buildings are known as the Cast-iron Buildings .

Soho buildings are often 5-6 storeys high, with large, beautiful windows.

Staircases and ladders, which were added in the early 20th century, can be found on the facades. The facades also feature many decorative elements typical of European Renaissance and Second Empire architecture, such as arcades, cornices and balustrades.

SoHo's Cast-iron Buildings

While in SoHo, you can take a stroll through the neighbourhood’s streets to see the most beautiful of the Cast-iron Buildings. They are located on Broome Street, Broadway, Green Street and Mercer Street.

You can see, for example:

• The Roosevelt Building, at 478-82 on Broadway,
• The Gunther Building, at 469 Broome Street,
• The E.V. Haughwout Building, at 488-492 Broadway – which also houses the first steam lift,
• The Cheney Building, at 477, 81 Broome Street,
• The Queen of Green Street, at 28 Green Street…

Where to go shopping?

In SoHo, shopping is almost a way of life. In this neighbourhood, you will find clothing shops, jewellery shops, home improvement shops, and designer boutiques on every corner. SoHo is undoubtedly one of the most popular destinations in New York for shopping aficionados. 

Broadway & Mercer Street

Many of the largest and most famous retailers are located along Broadway and Mercer Street . You can therefore go to the intersection of Prince Street and Broadway to start your shopping spree: you will find a Bloomingdale's shop – or an Old Navy’s shop, which offers a wide range of fashion for children and adults both at affordable prices. Other famous stores on Broadway include Victoria Secret, Forever 21, H&M, Uniqlo and American Eagle Outfitters.

Broome St, Prince St. & Spring St.

Along Broome Street ,  Prince Street and Spring Street you will find a number of smaller shops. It is along these cobbled streets that you will find designer boutiques and luxury brands such as Stella McCartney, Louis Vuitton and Marc Jacobs.

Artists & Fleas

SoHo also hosts a large indoor market: Artists & Fleas . In this market located on Broadway, in a former sewing factory, you will find forty or so stalls where designers and craftsmen offer entirely handmade products. Artists & Fleas SoHo is open every day, even on Sundays.

Cultural venues to discover in SoHo

SoHo is also a culturally rich area, and you can visit several memorable museums:

• The New Museum of Contemporary Art exhibits the works of a wide range of contemporary artists from around the world. Opened in 1977, it has been housed in a new futuristic building near Prince Street since 2007.
• The New York City Fire Museum is a museum honouring the city's firefighters. On the three floors of this old fire station, many objects are displayed, such as equipment and old vehicles. A visit to this museum allows you to discover more about the history of these true New York heroes.
• The Children’s Museum of the Arts allows children to discover more than 2,000 works of art that were selected especially for them. Artists are also available to provide workshops to help children develop their artistic awareness.

For all that it is now very much a shopping district, SoHo has not forgotten its rich artistic history and many art studios can still be visited today. Among the most famous are:

• The Morrison Hotel Gallery , which exhibits the most beautiful pictures of the biggest stars of the music and show business. The gallery takes its name from the 1970 Doors album.
• Artists Space , one of the most emblematic galleries in the neighbourhood, which since 1972 has been home to works that have often created controversy within the art world.
• The Franklin Bowles Gallery , which houses numerous 20th century works by renowned artists such as Miro, Dali and Matisse.

Where to eat and go out in SoHo?

There are several good places to eat in Soho. Ed’s Lobster Bar is famous for its lobster dishes, including the famous Lobster Rolls. At the Mercer Hotel , you can try one of the best burgers in the city. For a typical cheesecake, you can visit Eileen’s Special Cheesecake . Pizza lovers can also find one of New York’s best pizza places in Soho: Ben's Pizza.

Right next to Soho, you can also take a walking tour of the most popular pastry shops in Manhattan. This is an original activity to do – especially if you are looking for something a little less popular and touristy. You'll learn about the Cupcake craze that has taken hold in New York City, and more specifically Manhattan, and you'll get to taste some during the activity 🙂

On top of that, SoHo is a very lively neighbourhood where you can spend a memorable evening. You won't find the big clubs here like in some other parts of New York. Instead, you can go to bars with a great atmosphere, such as Fanelli's Cafe , located at 94 Prince Street. Weather permitting, you can even drop by The James New York at 27 Grand Street and sit in its second-floor garden to enjoy the view of the streets of SoHo.

It’s a great place to have a good time!

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From Boutiques to Bargains - Your Ultimate Guide to Shopping in Soho New York

There has been a time when some of the most admired stores did not line the cobblestone streets of SoHo. But luckily that is not the case these days. Since these places used to be full of factories and warehouses, but now they are high-end condos with plenty of storefronts on the ground level, so it’s must place to visit in New York .

We are not lying when we say SoHo has some of the best shopping stores in the whole world, It is all that New York is known for starting from one block to another it is full of the best shopping destinations in New York City’s SoHo neighborhood including high-end designer stores, the best kind of boutiques and outstanding outlets of the most famous clothing stores.

Still, it can be hard to pick which stores in Soho NYC are worth visiting because there are so many to choose from as well as some of the shops on 5th Avenue New York . But because of this and also for your ease and comfort we've put down a list of the best shopping in Soho New York for you, so that you can get the most out of your trip there. Let’s just get into it.

List of The 5 Most Admired Stores in SoHo NYC

If you really want to shop in SoHo, then you have to get lost. Simply allow yourself to roam from one block to another and then aimlessly, this is one of the best thing to do in New York because you’re going to have fun! But all you need to do is make sure you start with the most admirable shopping street in New York first.

What Zara’s Soho store offers is really hard to beat, known for its clean yet sleek aesthetic, especially at such price points, it is remarkable! Zara has you covered at all times, whether it’s a piece of jewelry, an everyday t-shirt, or a coat that goes with everything, there is nothing you cannot find in this store.

It is a known fact throughout the world everyone loves H&M and the best part is that its a perfect example of why New Yorkers love shopping at affordable SoHo stores. The store is always bustling with locals looking for bargains on the latest trends, no matter what time of day it is, it is always on trend and has the best clothes. As the world's second-largest clothing retailer, they have several quite huge locations in NYC, but their SoHo location is one of the best.

Muji has become a very top best SoHo clothing store specially for those who love modest looks, so we must be thankful to its minimalist approach to life and fashion. You will notice that there are no creative logos all because the full Japanese name (Mujirushi Ryhin) translates to "no-brand quality goods." But it is a best tourist attractions in New York .

Muji is the best place to shop for basics if you are in for some simple shirts and dresses. They also have a large selection of home goods and essentials, which makes it one of the best stores in SoHo for those who just want to wander.

Known as the 4th largest retailer around the world, Uniqlo hails basically from Japan. As the store needed to expand its market in the US, it had to choose a flagship place, they knew NYC was the best choice, so they opened their store in Soho. Since it opened people from New York City are going crazy, they come all the way in order to stock up on goods. It is truly a great store with an amazing quality.

TJ Maxx is one of the stores in SoHo that is the most wallet-friendly for those of us who are trying to shop on a tight pocket, you must get all your budgeting tips for visiting New York in order if you want to make the most out of it.

Customers in New York can save a lot of money at TJ Maxx because they can negotiate with manufacturers to buy name-brand goods for a small fraction of their original price. So, the part is you can easily find some real gems at this amazing SoHo clothing store, like beautiful dresses and pants and whatever you are on the lookout for, this is your place since they always have killer deals.

Best 5 Clothing Stores in SoHo for Women

1. madewell.

Madewell is a J. Crew brand that was created to be a niche store for women's jeans. They've expanded to a wider range of items, and their SoHo clothing store sells nearly everything you need to put together a complete outfit. Their SoHo location also takes part in Madewell's denim recycling program. Bring in a pair of old, unwanted jeans (any brand) for a $20 discount on the purchase of a new pair. Then Madewell sends your old jeans to be recycled into home insulation, giving them new life and keeping them out of landfills.

2. Reformation

Reformation is one of SoHo's most typical stores. They started their journey as a thrift store in Los Angeles in 2009 but soon started producing their own clothing. They make their clothing from repurposed and low-impact materials, with an emphasis on sustainability.

In the reports, they discuss their successes and failures in terms of diversity, climate impact, and working conditions, as well as their goals for the coming year. The transparency is hard to beat, and it makes me want to return to their SoHo clothing store.

3. & Other Stories

& Other Stories has design teams in Stockholm, Paris, and Los Angeles, each of which creates collections that reflect the fashion in their respective cities.

Locals can find items from all three designer cities in their SoHo clothing store, and they're encouraged to put together outfits which also tell their own story.

& Other Stories defies convention by avoiding fast fashion. Instead, they design timeless garments that will continue to tell the stories of the cities in which they were designed and the people who wore them.

COS is one of SoHo's most contemporary clothing stores, with sleek basics lining the racks and shelves. Muted tones, as well as timeless black and white classics, are the order of the day.

Because they are owned by H&M, they have a similar aesthetic, but if H&M were the adolescent younger sibling, COS would be the sophisticated young professional.

5. Bloomingdale’s

Bloomingdale's is a large, luxury department store chain, and one of the best locations for Shopping in New York . The store is well-known and well-liked by the community. Even Rachel Green from the hit TV show Friends worked here! The Bloomingdale’s clothing store in SoHo is full of great finds, but you know since you’ll be in Broadway you might want to know the fact that they have a public restroom if in case you need it.

Top 10 Clothing Stores in SoHo for Men

1. rag & bone.

Rag & Bone is one of the best stores for men in SoHo, inspired by a fusion of aesthetics between British tailored suits and American workwear. Consider denim, flannels, and boots, then go all out, so you must know the best time to visit New York , so you ca get your hand on their amazing stuff. The brand will set you back a pretty penny, but the quality is outstanding.

Bonobos started as an online retailer, but their growing success forced them to open a SoHo clothing store. They have a great selection of pants and shirts that people would classify as date night casual. Appointments with stylists are available at the location, also when you need assistance, the staff is friendly and knowledgeable.

Sandro has captured the Parisian chic look and expanded it from a single storefront in Paris to over 600 locations around the world. Among the many stores in SoHo is their US flagship location.

There's enough casual European-inspired clothing for all of us to have our main character moment. Because of the simple elegance of their pieces, it has become one of the best go-to mens clothing stores in SoHo since it has everything you need.

4. J. Crew the Mens Shop

Among the many stores in SoHo, the J. Crew Mens Shop is worth a visit whenever I'm in the neighborhood. It's old dependable to me. Quality pieces with reasonable prices, such as coats, cashmere, and chinos, that are closet staples.

In the 1980s, the company started designing Ralph Lauren-style clothing for people who didn't have Ralph Lauren-style money. It's difficult to compete with the socialites on the New York City stage, but the J. Crew Mens Shop evens the playing field.

Ari is an Italian-made high-end store, and the price reflects its status. Having said that, I think it's one of the best stores in SoHo. They are only available in New York, Miami, and Beverly Hills.

Unlike some other luxury stores, the store has a more casual vibe, so even if it's just for a quick visit, I always recommend it to my friends. Aside from the pricey t-shirts, they also make beautiful leather jackets. Their suede cashmere "whisky" jacket is stunning and keeps appearing in my dreams.

6. Allbirds

Allbirds, founded in 2014, has amassed a cult-like following in an impressively short period of time. The SoHo shoe store rose to prominence thanks to their first Merino wool shoe. They now make everything from running shoes to flats and are simple, sustainable, and versatile. It's one of the few stores in SoHo where the entire family can find something they like. They claim to have the "most comfortable shoes in the world."

How can we not include Nike this outstanding brand is synonymous with sneakers, and whether for a child or an adult, the excitement is the same. You'll be able to find exclusive items and score some serious deals at their SoHo shoe store.

It's worth a stop every time even in SoHo, even if it's just to look at the sale rack. The location also offers their famous "Nike by You" customization, allowing you complete control over the look of your kicks which is so unique and fun.

Although Kith is a great all-around SoHo clothing store, their footwear is where they truly shine. Kith collaborates with major brands to create popular classics with a distinctive twist. As an example, consider Birkenstock. Kith collaborated with them to create their iconic Arizona and London sandals, but with wool on the inside. Instead of boring Birks, you can now enjoy a cozier slipper than everyone else in your friend group. They've designed shoes for Dr. Martens, Adidas, and others, and the only way to see them is to visit this SoHo shoe store.

9. Stadium Goods

Stadium Goods is a must-visit shoe store in SoHo for fans of Jordans and resale sneakers in general. It may appear that getting your hands on the latest releases is impossible, but you'd be surprised at what they have in stock. The shoes will be expensive, but the premium is due to a guarantee of authenticity. When you're at the store where Complex films their popular show "Sneaker Shopping with Complex," there's no need to meet up with a sketchy guy from the internet.

10. John Fluevog

John Fluevog, arguably the most unique shoe store in SoHo, creates loud shoes for the loudest spirits. Nothing compares to the bold colors and patterns used by the Canadian designer in his boots.

There's no reason not to visit the store if you're in New York and looking for something no one else has. Countless very popular celebrities have worn their boots, from Alice Cooper to Beyonce, so why not you?

5 Best Jewelry Stores in SoHo

Even though Catbird is technically in Little Italy, we consider it a must-visit jewellery store during a SoHo shopping spree. It's our go-to spot for cheap jewelry that can double as gifts or souvenirs. There is affordable, high-quality jewellery for under $100 (as well as more expensive options).rs every day and it still looks as good as the day it was bought it a year ago.

Versani creates grungy jewelry with skulls, snakes, and claws reminiscent of what 1980s rockstars would wear. Versani's SoHo jewellery store also serves as their headquarters, allowing them to make adjustments and resize items in-house. This is convenient for visitors who are only staying for a few days because they can pick up their items before leaving town.

3. Tiffany & Co.

If you enjoyed the movie Breakfast at Tiffany's, you should go to Tiffany & Co.'s SoHo jewellery store. It's not the same store from the movie, but it's still one of the best in town.

Tiffanies has become a status symbol for the rich and famous over its 185-year history, but it also made some more affordable pieces. I always tell out-of-town friends to add this to their list of SoHo stores to visit.

4. Kendra Scott

Kendra Scott began her jewellery business in 2002 with $500 and a newborn baby. She went on to expand that business into more than 100 retail locations, with 95% of her more than 2,000 employees being women. Talk about female empowerment!

Her SoHo store offers both classic and trendy jewellery in price ranges to suit everyone's needs. The jewellery store has everything you'll need, whether you're looking for a gift or just shopping for yourself.

5. TAI Jewellery

After gaining a loyal customer base through their sales both online and in boutiques, this woman-owned business made the decision in 2016 to open their first and only jewellery store in the SoHo neighbourhood of New York City. It's one of the best stores in SoHo for bargain hunters because most of their items are cute and affordable.

Top 5 Boutiques in SoHo

Celine is the typical SoHo shopping place. There is so much to choose from at the high-end store. Shoes, jewelry, and leather goods are available in addition to women's and men's clothing. Their SoHo boutique has a relaxed and modern vibe, so it's worth a visit even if you just want to window shop.

2. L’Appartment Sezane

Sézane is a well-known French fashion label. With its chic seasonal clothing line, it has amassed a cult-like following and decided to open a brick-and-mortar boutique in SoHo. Fortunately for us!

The store has the feel of a Parisian apartment, which adds to the unique shopping experience. Although technically you will not be able to stop in Nolita during SoHo shopping trips.

3. Kirna Zabete

This SoHo boutique appears to be the kind of place Carrie Bradshaw from Sex and the City would shop. There are many high-end clothing items to choose from, and the store itself looks like it belongs in a fashion magazine.

Aritzia's trendy and beautiful women's clothing leaves no doubt as to why or how they have such a loyal customer base. Their SoHo boutique is always crowded with people looking through their two floors of fashion. Aritzia is also unique in that it has a cafe within its store. After a long day of shopping in SoHo, their A-OK Cafe can provide a much-needed pick-me-up.

5. Wolf & Badger

Wolf & Badger's SoHo boutique puts the world's best independent brands at the fingertips of New Yorkers. Unlike some other SoHo stores that cater exclusively to women, Wolf & Badger has something for everyone's wardrobe.

Wolf & Badger sells designers from all over the world, so you never know what you'll find. It's fitting that they chose New York City as their American outpost.

We hope our guide has helped you understand what a treasure New York holds within. If you are looking to shop, SoHo is your answer, you will find everything you're on the lookout for. We have mentioned some of the best stores as well as in every category for your ease. You will definitely get whole lot done in just a day on your shopping spree, have fun!

Frequently Asked Questions

Is soho nyc good for shopping, what is the main shopping street in soho new york, what is soho in new york famous for, what street has the best shopping in new york, why is soho so expensive.

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What To Do In Soho New York? 21 Awesome Things To Do

Soho, New York, is a cultural hub offering art, fashion, dining, and entertainment. As a local, I’ve curated a list of 21 exciting experiences that capture the essence of this trendy neighborhood. Whether you’re a tourist or a resident looking for new adventures, these activities will help you dive into the heart of Soho and make the most of your time here. Read Our recent guide- What To Do In Beacon New York?

What To Do In Soho New York? 21 Things to Do in Soho, New York

1. exploring art galleries and studios.

Soho is renowned for its art scene. Wander through iconic galleries like the  Gagosian Gallery  and The Drawing Center to appreciate contemporary and classic artworks. Remember to explore the many artist studios to glimpse their creative process.

2. Shopping at High-End Boutiques

Indulge in a shopping spree at luxury boutiques like Chanel, Prada, and Louis Vuitton. Soho boasts an array of high-end fashion stores that cater to your style cravings.

3. Brunching at Charming Cafés

Start your day with brunch at local favorites such as  Jack’s Wife Freda  or Two Hands. Their cozy ambiance and delectable dishes will leave you energized and satisfied.

Also Read: Best Salmon Fishing in New York

4. Strolling Through Cobblestone Streets

Savor the unique charm of Soho by taking a leisurely walk down its cobblestone streets. The historic architecture and tree-lined avenues offer a picturesque backdrop for your exploration.

5. Visiting the New York Fire Museum

Learn about the history of firefighting at the  New York Fire Museum , which features vintage fire engines and captivating exhibits that pay tribute to the city’s brave firefighters.

6. Discovering Hidden Speakeasies

Embark on a speakeasy adventure by visiting secret bars like Please Don’t Tell (PDT). Enjoy expertly crafted cocktails in a cozy and mysterious setting.

7. Sampling International Cuisine

Soho’s culinary scene is diverse and enticing. You can savor a world of flavors without leaving the neighborhood, from Italian trattorias to sushi bars.

8. Admiring Cast Iron Architecture

Marvel at the historic cast iron architecture that defines Soho’s aesthetic. Buildings like the Haughwout Building showcase the neighborhood’s rich history.

9. Enjoying Live Music at City Winery

Experience live music like never before at City Winery, where you can enjoy performances by renowned artists while sipping on fine wines.

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10. Attending Angelika Film Center

Catch an independent or foreign film screening at the  Angelika Film Center . This iconic cinema celebrates the art of storytelling through motion pictures.

11. Joining a Chinatown and Little Italy Food Tour

Expand your palate by joining a guided food tour that takes you through nearby Chinatown and Little Italy flavors. Sample dim sum, cannoli, and more.

12. SoHo Broadway BID: Art Walks

Immerse yourself in art and culture by participating in SoHo Broadway BID’s Art Walk s . These guided tours showcase local art installations and exhibitions.

13. Experiencing Museum at the Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT)

Fashion enthusiasts will love the Museum at FIT, where exhibits explore the evolution of style, clothing, and design.

14. Taking a Citi Bike Ride

Rent a Citi Bike and explore Soho on two wheels. It’s a fun and eco-friendly way to see the neighborhood’s attractions.

15. Indulging in Sweet Treats

Satisfy your sweet tooth at bakeries like Dominique Ansel Bakery, home of the famous Cronut, or the artisanal gelato spot  Grom .

16. Exploring The Evolution Store

Uncover curious and unique items at The Evolution Store, where you’ll find everything from fossils to taxidermy.

17. Attending Art Openings and Events

Stay updated on the latest art happenings by attending gallery openings and events. It’s a fantastic way to mingle with artists and art enthusiasts.

18. Lombardi’s Pizza: A Slice of History

Delight in a slice of history at Lombardi’s Pizza, often considered the first pizzeria in the United States. Enjoy a classic New York-style pie.

19. Capturing Instagram-Worthy Moments

Soho’s aesthetics make it a prime location for Instagram photos. Capture iconic spots like the Prince Street Swing and the Love Sculpture.

20. Taking a Big Onion Walking Tour

Join a Big Onion Walking Tour to delve into Soho’s history. Learn about its transformation from an industrial area to a vibrant neighborhood.

21. Relaxing at Washington Square Park

Conclude your Soho adventure by unwinding at nearby  Washington Square Park . People watch, read, or enjoy the park’s lively atmosphere.

Is Soho only known for its shopping scene?

While Soho is famous for its high-end boutiques, it offers much more than shopping. The neighborhood boasts an eclectic mix of art, dining, historic architecture, and entertainment options.

Are there family-friendly activities in Soho?

Absolutely! Families can enjoy exploring the art galleries, trying diverse cuisine, and visiting attractions like the New York Fire Museum and Washington Square Park.

Are the art galleries suitable for all art enthusiasts?

Yes, Soho’s art galleries cater to a wide range of tastes. You’ll find contemporary, classic, and experimental artworks, ensuring something for every art enthusiast.

Can I explore Soho on foot?

Definitely! Soho is a pedestrian-friendly neighborhood with cobblestone streets and a walkable distance between attractions. Walking is one of the best ways to soak in the ambiance.

Is it necessary to make reservations at restaurants in advance?

Reservations are recommended, especially for popular restaurants. Making a reservation ensures you secure a table and enjoy your dining experience without long wait times.

How can I stay updated on upcoming art events in Soho?

You can stay informed about art events by following Soho galleries and organizations on social media, checking event listings, and joining local art forums.

Soho, New York, offers a kaleidoscope of experiences that cater to various interests. From art enthusiasts and fashionistas to foodies and history buffs, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant neighborhood. As you explore the 21 things to do in Soho, you’ll immerse yourself in a blend of culture, creativity, and urban charm that defines this iconic district.

Michael Sutton

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10 Best Things to Do in Soho NYC Neighborhood for 2024

Introduction to SoHo NYC

SoHo is short for “South of Houston Street,” a dynamic neighborhood in New York City. SoHo is located in Lower Manhattan, New York City. It is sometimes spelled as “Soho.”

It is renowned for its historic cast-iron architecture and vibrant arts scene, Soho has evolved from an industrial district to a cultural epicenter. If you are interested in visiting the place or spending a day in Soho, continue reading to learn more about the hotspot before your New York trip.

About SoHo and Its Significance in NYC

This iconic neighborhood is celebrated for its stylish boutiques, art galleries, and diverse culinary offerings, making it a symbol of innovation and creativity within the ever-evolving tapestry of New York City. Soho’s significance lies in its ability to seamlessly blend the historic with the contemporary, embodying the city’s spirit of reinvention and artistic expression. There are a lot of things to see in the area, especially since SoHo is one of NYC’s prime shopping districts .

Historical Background of SoHo

Soho’s rich historical background traces back to the 19th century when it served as an industrial hub, housing textile factories and warehouses. The neighborhood’s distinct cast-iron architecture, a result of reconstruction after the Great Fire of 1835, became a defining feature.

By the mid-20th century, industrial decline led to a transformation, with artists attracted to the spacious lofts and affordable rents. This influx of creativity established Soho as an artistic enclave, fostering a burgeoning avant-garde community and attracting attention on a global scale.

Today, Soho’s historical significance is complemented by its modern allure. The cobblestone streets and iconic architecture provide a picturesque backdrop for a diverse range of boutiques, art galleries, and eateries. Soho Historic District, the largest collection of cast iron buildings in the world, and several houses in the neighborhood have made it to the National Register of Historic Places listings in Manhattan.

Visitors are drawn to Soho for its unique blend of history and contemporary culture, offering an immersive experience that encapsulates the essence of New York City. Whether exploring the innovative art scene, indulging in culinary delights, or strolling through the charming streets, Soho continues to captivate with its dynamic energy, making it a must-visit destination for those seeking a quintessential New York experience.

Notable Features of SoHo Neighborhood

SoHo is a popular place in New York City that is part of Manhattan with multiple features that draw people into it. It is known for its upscale boutiques, famous art scene and street art, and historic architecture like the incredible cast-iron buildings.

Here are some of the things why locals and tourists flocked to Soho.

• Cast-Iron Architecture: Soho is renowned for its iconic cast-iron architecture, characterized by intricate facades and large windows, a distinctive legacy from its industrial past.
• Art Galleries and Studios: The neighborhood is a hub for artistic expression, hosting numerous galleries and studios that showcase a diverse range of contemporary art, making it a magnet for art enthusiasts and creators alike.
• Fashionable Boutiques: Soho is a premier shopping destination, boasting a mix of high-end and independent boutiques from Spring Street to Bowery. The streets are lined with fashion-forward stores, offering a unique and trendsetting shopping experience.
• Culinary Diversity: From chic cafes to upscale restaurants , Soho is a gastronomic delight. Its streets are filled with diverse culinary offerings, catering to a range of tastes and preferences, making it a paradise for food lovers.
• Cobblestone Streets and Atmosphere: The charming streets contribute to Soho’s distinct character. The vibrant atmosphere, street performers, and a constant buzz of activity make wandering through Soho a memorable and immersive experience for visitors.

10 Fun Things To Do In Soho New York — Top Attractions and Places to Visit

The top 10 things to do in NYC encompass a diverse range of activities, including marveling at the architectural grandeur of the Statue of Liberty and Empire State Building, strolling through the vibrant neighborhoods of Times Square and Central Park, immersing oneself in the cultural richness of world-class museums like the Metropolitan Museum of Art, and indulging in the culinary delights of diverse neighborhoods like Chinatown and Little Italy. This city that never sleeps beckons with an irresistible blend of history, entertainment, and exploration, ensuring an unforgettable experience for every visitor.

1. Visit Art Galleries in Soho

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by New Museum (@newmuseum)

Another must-visit is the New Museum , an architectural gem dedicated to presenting new and challenging works by emerging artists. Its commitment to the avant-garde makes it a dynamic hub for contemporary art enthusiasts. Navigating these galleries, visitors can immerse themselves in a diverse range of mediums and styles, gaining insight into the pulse of the contemporary art world while enjoying the creative ambiance that defines Soho’s artistic landscape.

2. Shopping in Soho

Among the top things to do here is shopping. Yes, you read that right! Soho is also a great place for those who love retail therapy. Soho shopping is an unparalleled experience, marked by a dynamic fusion of high-end fashion, eclectic boutiques, and trendy street style. The streets of Soho are lined with an array of fashionable stores, from flagship luxury brands to unique independent shops.

What makes shopping truly enjoyable is the neighborhood’s vibrant atmosphere, where each storefront seems to tell a story, and the energy is palpable. Shoppers can discover the latest fashion trends, uncover one-of-a-kind pieces, and explore a diverse range of styles, all within the charming and aesthetically pleasing backdrop of Soho’s iconic architecture.

3. Eat at Restaurants in Soho (Top Restaurants and Cafés in SoHo)

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Amanda Louis (@_amandalouis_)

Whether indulging in international flavors or savoring local favorites, the culinary journey in Soho is not just about the food—it’s about immersing oneself in the lively, sophisticated, and ever-evolving gastronomic culture of this iconic New York City neighborhood.

4. Tour with a Local Guide and See the Street Art

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by William Power (@hiphopismyreligion)

5. Visit the Museum of Ice Cream

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Genna 🍴 Food & Travel (@_thats_forking_good)

6. New York City Fire Museum

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by New York City Fire Museum (@nycfiremuseum)

Visitors can explore the bravery and resilience of the city’s firefighters, gaining insight into their heroic efforts over the years. The museum offers a unique blend of education and inspiration, making it a must-visit destination for those interested in the storied legacy of firefighting and the crucial role it plays in New York City’s history.

7. Children’s Museum of the Arts

The Children’s Museum of the Arts in Soho is a creative haven designed to inspire and nurture young artistic minds. With interactive exhibits, workshops, and studios, the museum encourages children to explore various forms of visual and performing arts. It provides a hands-on experience where kids can unleash their creativity, from painting and sculpture to digital media. The Children’s Museum of the Arts offers a dynamic and engaging environment, making it an ideal destination for families seeking an enriching and interactive artistic experience for their children.

8. Visit the Leslie-Lohman Museum

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by New York Landmarks Conservancy (@nylandmarks)

Tourists can explore thought-provoking exhibitions that reflect the richness of LGBTQ+ experiences and perspectives. The Leslie-Lohman Museum offers a unique opportunity to engage with art that challenges norms, fosters inclusivity, and promotes a deeper understanding of the LGBTQ+ narrative.

9. Visit the Housing Works Bookstore

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by DASOM LEE (@explorewithdasom)

Visitors can peruse through a curated selection of both new and used books, making each purchase a contribution to the organization’s charitable endeavors. The cozy ambiance, coupled with the knowledge that your book-buying adventure supports a meaningful cause, makes Housing Works Bookstore a visit well worth the literary exploration.

10. Stay at Hotels in Soho

  View this post on Instagram   A post shared by Hellen Eize (@helleneize)

Planning Your Visit to SoHo

Embarking on a journey to visit SoHo promises a captivating adventure filled with art, culture, and culinary delights. This iconic New York City neighborhood, renowned for its historic charm and creative energy, invites exploration.

Choosing the Right Accommodation in SoHo

Selecting the ideal accommodation around SoHo is crucial to maximizing your experience in this vibrant neighborhood. From chic boutique hotels to stylish loft rentals, SoHo offers a range of options that cater to different preferences and budgets. Staying within the heart of SoHo ensures easy access to its iconic landmarks, trendy shops, and a myriad of dining options. Whether opting for a boutique hotel with a touch of luxury or a cozy loft with a more intimate atmosphere, the right accommodation sets the stage for an immersive and comfortable stay in SoHo.

Creating the Perfect Itinerary for SoHo Exploration

Crafting a well-thought-out itinerary is essential for making the most of your SoHo exploration. Begin your day with a visit to renowned art galleries and street art, immersing yourself in the neighborhood’s rich artistic tapestry. Follow this with a leisurely stroll along the streets, discovering fashionable boutiques and enjoying the unique charm of the surroundings.

Delve into the culinary scene by planning lunch at one of SoHo’s diverse restaurants, offering a gastronomic journey that reflects the neighborhood’s cultural diversity. Round out your day with a visit to a cultural institution such as the Leslie-Lohman Museum or a unique experience at the Children’s Museum of the Arts, ensuring a well-rounded exploration of SoHo’s creativity and history.

Tips for Exploring SoHo with Guided Tours

Exploring SoHo is a delightful venture into the heart of New York City’s artistic and cultural hub, where historic charm meets contemporary flair. With its cobblestone streets, diverse boutiques, and renowned art scene, SoHo offers a unique blend of experiences that beckons both locals and visitors alike.

• Navigate on Foot: SoHo’s compact layout is best explored on foot, allowing you to discover hidden gems, intricate architecture, and vibrant street art around every corner. This is a great way to discover great places to eat, visit the best bars in SoHo and explore the other locations in SoHo waiting to be unveiled.
• Weekday Visits: For a more relaxed experience, plan your SoHo exploration on weekdays to avoid the bustling weekend crowds and enjoy a quieter ambiance.
• Art Galleries First: Start your day by visiting iconic art galleries like the Color Factory, The Drawing Center, Lik SoHo, and Opera Gallery New York and immerse yourself in SoHo’s rich artistic heritage.
• Shopping Strategy: If you are planning to go shopping in New York City, SoHo is the place to visit. With an array of stylish boutiques, plan your shopping spree strategically by focusing on specific streets like Broadway or Mercer for a curated and efficient experience.
• Culinary Adventure: Explore SoHo’s diverse culinary scene by trying a mix of local favorites and international cuisine, with many charming cafes and restaurants scattered throughout the neighborhood.

There are so many things to do in New York and a lot of places to see in Soho. Whether you want to eat in SoHo, stroll the streets in NYC or simply go shopping downtown NYC there’s no place like SoHo for local New Yorkers and tourists. Not to mention, the top attractions in SoHo are worth a visit. One of the best things to do is go shopping. We also recommend you visit galleries and art museums. The SoHo attractions are 10 out of 10 and truly the best. So, make sure to visit Soho when you are in New York!

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Strolling Around SoHo in New York City

Table of Contents

SoHo New York Recommendations

In the heart of Lower Manhattan, SoHo is a New York neighborhood that retains a unique character, highlighting the cultural diversity that defines New York City . A hub of creativity, Soho attracts millions of visitors from around the world to feel its vibe and enjoy its authenticity. Join me for a walk around this neighborhood and get my SoHo New York recommendations.

What to See and Do in SoHo

My SoHo New York Recommendations

It’s safe to say that anyone visiting New York City for the first time has likely made a point of visiting countless attractions. One of them should be SoHo.

Unique Architecture

Before we delve into the details, it’s worth mentioning that SoHo is an acronym for South of Houston Street. As a result, you may come across it spelled as both SoHo and Soho. This neighborhood has been particularly well-known since the 1970s, as it’s home to many art galleries, as well as commercial shops of major fashion houses or local designers. Soho has retained its original character over the years, with cobbled streets, typical cast-iron architecture, and impressive buildings. An impressive fun fact about this particular architecture is that there are around 250 cast-iron buildings in New York, with the vast majority of them located in SoHo.

When strolling through the cobbled streets of SoHo, you’ll quickly notice the uniqueness of the architecture, which gives the feeling of being in another era.

The “house of art”

Earlier, I mentioned that SoHo is a neighborhood that showcases the diverse culture of New York City. It is a haven for art lovers, with numerous art galleries, boutiques, vintage shops, and museums all around you. Even if you’re not an art enthusiast, you’ll be mesmerized by the atmosphere of this place, as you’ll see art everywhere you look.

There are many places to visit in SoHo, but I would recommend two in particular. The first is the “ Museum of Ice Cream “, which is a colorful and interactive museum dedicated to the history of ice cream. The second is “ The Drawing Center “, an exhibition space that explores the medium of drawing as primary, dynamic, and relevant to contemporary culture.

Shopping Paradise

If you’re a fan of high-end fashion and elegant style, Soho is the perfect destination for you. Walking through the alleys of this neighborhood, you will discover a plethora of boutiques and expensive clothing stores that will leave you mesmerized. You can find everything from handmade pieces by local designers to more affordable options.

Additionally, there are shops with vintage clothing and trendy pieces to choose from. SoHo has something to offer for everyone, and you won’t be disappointed by the range of options available in that place.

Charming Cafes

Strolling around SoHo in New York City, you will quickly notice that the neighborhood is home not only to art galleries, clothing stores, and impressive buildings but also to many charming cafes. These cafes perfectly fit in with the neighborhood’s character, with most featuring impressive stone architecture that makes you feel like they have always been there.

If you’re looking for a place to enjoy your coffee, I suggest picking up a cup and walking around the neighborhood’s alleys. However, if you’re looking for a specific recommendation, the charming “ Café Lyria ” located in the heart of Soho is a great choice. The author recommends trying their traditional Greek “moustokouloura” (Greek sweet cookies) they offer with your coffee (if they don’t, don’t hesitate to ask for them). Trust me, you won’t regret it.

Culinary Delights in SoHo

If you ever find yourself wandering around SoHo, you simply cannot miss out on the diverse range of flavors that the area has to offer. From fast food to fine dining, there are plenty of options to cater to every taste and budget. However, there are a few places that are worth exploring.

If you happen to be in the area in the morning, I highly recommend trying the famous “cronut” at “ Dominique Ansel Bakery “, along with your coffee. This unique pastry is a cross between a croissant and a donut and is worth trying, especially if you have a sweet tooth. Be prepared to wait in line, as it’s quite popular. Alternatively, if you’re in a hurry, “Pi Greek Bakery” is just three minutes away. Here, you can sample delicious Greek cuisine, including Greek pies and the famous Greek moussaka.

Furthermore, if you happen to be in the area during dusk and feel exhausted from all the walking, you can take a break and enjoy a refreshing drink or beer at one of the many options available in the alleys of Soho. You can find various bars, pubs, and live stages to entertain yourself and have a good time.

Author’s tip

In conclusion, if you’re in New York, you should definitely check out SoHo. You don’t need to plan out a strict itinerary to see all that the area has to offer. Remember that most museums and art galleries are closed on Sundays and Mondays, so it’s best to avoid those days if you want to visit any of these places.

The best way to experience the charm of Soho is to take a leisurely stroll around the neighborhood and get a feel for what it’s like to live in this bustling part of New York City.

If you plan to visit SoHo in New York City,  you can find here some of the best options for accommodation !

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These Are The 10 Most Unique Neighborhoods To Visit In New York City

• The Upper East Side is a wealthy and prestigious neighborhood in NYC with luxury stores, fine restaurants, and beautiful surroundings.
• SoHo is a popular Manhattan neighborhood known for its shopping, including heritage luxury brands and standalone designer stores.
• Chinatown offers vibrant streets, diverse Asian cuisine, and a large Chinese community, making it a must-visit neighborhood in NYC for foodies.

The world has an abundance of iconic metropolises; from the most famous cities in South Korea to the coolest neighborhoods in London to the renowned urban sprawls of Los Angeles on the USA's West Coast, many of the planet's best city destinations command all the attention in terms of tourism. But there's one city that shrines bright above them all; The Big Apple.

With its fast-paced and lively vibe, New York City is undoubtedly one of the most famous cities in the world. While living in New York seems nothing short of a dream, there are more than a handful of unique neighborhoods in NYC to visit that have something for everyone. From Queens to the Upper East Side, NYC has something in the bag for everyone. Here are the top picks of the most unique neighborhoods in NYC to visit for the ultimate exploration of one of the most famous parts of the United States.

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Upper East Side

One can almost literally smell money when they come anywhere near the Upper East Side of New York. This is one of the most unique NYC neighborhoods and is the prime example of all the luxury money can buy for humankind. From fancy designer stores to some of the city's finest restaurants to high rises that scream fancy living, the Upper East Side seems almost ethereal.

Besides, it is right between New York's infamous East River and Central Park and is surrounded by more than a few public institutions that add to its appeal.

• Places to visit: Frick Collection, Sotheby's, Carl Schurz Park

Manhattan offers plenty to do and see within its many iconic neighborhoods, one of which is SoHo. Short for South of Houston Street, SoHo is another Manhattan neighborhood known for its glitz and glamor. SoHo is nothing short of paradise for folks looking to indulge in a shopping spree. It has boutique stores of some heritage luxury brands like YSL, Gucci, LV, etc.

On the other hand, it is also home to some standalone designer stores like Alexander Wang and Rachel Comey. While shopping in SoHo can quickly put a hole in one's pocket, there are pocket-friendly options in the neighborhood, too, like the good ole UNIQLO, Muji, Kith, etc. The place is usually filled with tourists owing to its beautiful architecture and unending hype.

• Places to visit: 12 Chairs, NYC Fire Museum, Broadway Shopping

Chinatown is one of the best NYC neighborhoods for foodies. While it has many Chinese and Asian restaurants that serve fresh and authentic meals, it does not stop there.

One thing that is instantly noticeable in the neighborhood is its eclectic color and clamor. The streets are often full of vibrant lamps, billboards, and graffiti that add a whole bunch of dynamism to it. As the name suggests, Chinatown is home to the largest ethnic Chinese community in NYC.

• Places to visit: Nom Wah Tea Parlor, The Original Chinatown Ice Cream Factory, Mahayana Buddhist Temple

RELATED: 10 Of The Best Chinatowns To Visit In The U.S.

Little Italy

Little Italy is another interesting part of Manhattan. As is evident from its name, this unique NYC neighborhood is occupied by Italians more than most. Walking on the streets of Little Italy, one can surely remember dimly-lit noir shots and scenes from the old Italian-American movies.

As most Italians in the neighborhood would agree, one can find some of the finest pizzas in America, freshly made pasta, and rich espressos here, which proves exactly why NYC is one of the best pizza cities in the US . Interestingly enough, some of the famous mafia landmarks have become the area's tourist attractions over the years.

• Places to visit: Piemonte Ravioli, L'Amore

Long Island City

Often confused with the Long Island, Long Island City is one of New York's most prized possessions. Situated right on the coast of the Atlantic Ocean, it offers some of the city's finest views.

Long Island City offers a wide range of lifestyle choices that go from relatively basic to extremely fancy instantly. It is known for its many high rises that kiss the very cheek of the gorgeous NYC skyline. Additionally, the art scene in this neighborhood has grown and flourished rather beautifully over the years.

• Places to visit: MoMa PS1, Fifth Hammer Brewing, Secret Theatre

RELATED: 10 Of The Most Unique Places To Visit On Long Island

Williamsburg

Williamsburg can very easily be named one of the most happening and hip neighborhoods in NYC to date. From a ton of nightclubs and arcades to a bunch of interesting eateries, this place has it all for the perfect jovial and youthful vibe.

The traces of the hipster era, too, are very much alive in Williamsburg, with its blazing art scene and happening nightlife.

• Places to visit: Brooklyn Bowl, Barcade, The City Reliquary Museum

Greenpoint is one of the quiet, low-key, yet incredibly charming neighborhoods in Brooklyn, NYC. The place is infamous for its lively fashion scene. One can spot some of the most chic fashion accessories in the smallest old-school boutiques here.

Apart from the growing fashion scene, the neighborhood has a dynamic and artsy vibe, with cozy diners and coffee shops serving delicious meals that are not to be missed. Those seeking the best art towns in the US can simply look to this unique Brooklyn neighborhood instead.

• Places to visit: Peter Pan Donut Shop, Sunshine Laundromat, Go Thrifting

RELATED: 10 Things To Do In Greenpoint: Complete Guide To Brooklyn's Must-Visit Neighborhood

Bushwick almost seems like the rebellious, fashionable child of NYC that is almost too good to be true. Bushwick was one of the few places that fueled the global wall art scene. Finding exquisite works of art casually painted on walls is not the most surprising thing that one might stumble upon when exploring the streets of Bushwick.

In addition, the place has many bars and restaurants that suit all budgets.

• Places to visit: Lazy Suzy Cafe & Shop, House Of Yes, Molasses Books

Theater District

The Theater District might be one of the most popular neighborhoods in NYC. A massive chunk of its popularity is because of the infamous Broadway Theater , a place where some of the world's finest artists have performed over the years.

There is absolutely no shortage of entertainment here owing to the many nearby theaters. The fast-paced New York energy is evident on the streets here, exemplifying the neighborhood's spirit.

• Places to visit: Broadway, Times Square Church, Lyric Theatre

RELATED: Experience The Magic Of Broadway: 10 Hotels In New York City's Theater District

Hell's Kitchen

Formerly known as Clinton, Hell's Kitchen is quickly becoming one of the most popular and lavish of all the unique New York City neighborhoods. While it has continued to be in the spotlight, the cultural significance of the place is still very much alive.

The neighborhood has a rather welcoming vibe and boasts a homely feel, which can be experienced in the many eateries . Although it is covered in high rises, Hell's Kitchen has kept the old-school American spirit on the streets.

• Places to visit: Lincoln Center, 42nd Street, Pip's Island

NYC has a whole lot of other exciting places and neighborhoods that each have an emotion to it. The city has something in it for everyone, and once a person gets a taste of the New York lifestyle, nothing else is ever enough for them.