Curator’s statement
Lower Manhattan holds a special place in my heart; it truly felt like home during my time in the West Village, where I experienced the unique personality of each neighborhood. While many find downtown overwhelming, I've always loved showcasing its vibrant energy and sharing it with others. Lower Manhattan warmly welcomes you with its extensive food and drink scene, its rich diversity and its lively atmosphere, ensuring that something captivating is always happening just around the corner.
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Things to do in Manhattan
Views of the Brooklyn Bridge from DUMBO
Start your day with brunch at NYC hotspots like Felix, The Dutch, Jeffrey's Grocery or Jack’s Wife Freida, then hit the shops in Soho.
For a caffeine kick, explore NYC's top-tier coffee scene at The Laughing Man (Tribeca), Joe’s on Waverly (West Village), Stumptown (West Village) or Mud (East Village).
Enjoy stunning East River views at South Street Seaport, then stroll across the Brooklyn Bridge to Dumbo for lunch (don't miss Juliana’s for fantastic NYC pizza).
Travel to Battery Park to enjoy views of the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, Governors Island, Staten Island and New Jersey. Tip: For free close-up views of Lady Liberty, take a relaxing ride on the Staten Island Ferry.
Seeking fun waterfront drinks without leaving Manhattan? Try Grand Banks or City Vineyard (though slightly north of 14th Street, The Frying Pan is worth a visit too!).
Stroll the High Line, a beautiful elevated public park located in Chelsea. You can also visit Chelsea Market for some of New York's finest nibbles.
Visit the 9/11 Memorial & Museum while making a stop at the Oculus.
Explore Chinatown and Little Italy to feel like you're no longer in NYC.
Places to eat & drink in Manhattan
Little Owl in the West Village
Palma (West Village): This Italian spot is bursting with charm! Be sure to ask for a table in the carriage house to enjoy a cozy dinner.
L’Artusi (West Village): Order any pasta dish on the menu and you will leave full and happy.
Loconda Verde (Tribeca): Whipped Ricotta!!! Also, a trendy local celeb favorite. Who will you see during your meal?
Tacombi (Noho): Trendy little Mexican spot. Great for brunch! Order a Michelada, Baja Crispy Fish Tacos and Corn Esquites (this combo cures any hangover still lingering from last night)
Freemans (Nolita): Wander down a quaint alleyway and uncover a hidden brunch destination, complete with delicious cocktails. For those wishing to extend their brunch experience, this restaurant resides in a neighborhood where expertly crafted drinks and trendy hangout spots are the standard.
Bubby’s (Tribeca): PANCAKES!!!! Need I say more?
Little Branch (West Village): Late-night Speakeasy with great cocktails. Don’t be turned away by the shady entrance. Stand out front, give a knock and someone will come out and introduce you to a hidden gem.
Dante’s (West Village): Best Negroni in the city! A personal favorite is the lavender negroni. Bellissimo!
McSorley’s (East Village): Check out some history while grabbing a beer. McSorley's is the oldest operating saloon in Manhattan - what's your order? Light or dark?
Wilfie and Nell: Chill village spot pouring great beers and cocktails. If you want to feel like you're in the West Village, this spot provides all the charm.
Need to know
Don’t drive! Embrace the subway! While taxis and Ubers are also options, they are pricier and can be slower due to traffic.
Plan ahead! Or at least have an idea of what you want to experience during your visit. New York City is a big place and can be overwhelming, so have a plan of attack to get the most out of your trip.
Make reservations! Especially for restaurants and bars that are on your bucket list and may be harder to get into.
DO NOT eat at chain restaurants! New York City has sooo much more to offer when it comes to food. Don’t miss out!
Don’t limit yourself to just Manhattan! New York City has FIVE boroughs, all of which have their own personalities.
If you need help, just ask! Locals here generally keep to themselves, but they're always willing to help if you have questions. You might even discover something unexpected!
Travel Advisor
Kristin Righter
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For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Manhattan page.