Things To Do In Soho New York

Soho, the name derived from “South of Houston Street”, is one of New York City’s most iconic and beloved neighborhoods. Located in lower Manhattan, Soho is home to some of the world’s most influential art galleries, chic boutiques, and trendy restaurants. With its unique blend of old and new, Soho has become one of the city’s most popular tourist destinations, offering an array of activities to delight and entertain visitors.

A Brief History of Soho

Once an industrial district and home to small-scale manufacturing and textile factories, Soho has long been a hub of creative expression and art. In the 1960s and 70s, Soho became a mecca for artists and bohemians who found an open-minded and liberal atmosphere in the neighborhood. As the art scene flourished, so too did the neighborhood’s iconic cast iron architecture, with many of the old factories being converted into studio spaces and galleries. By the late 1980s, Soho had become one of the most fashionable neighborhoods in the world and was home to many of the city’s trendiest shops, restaurants, and nightclubs.

Today, Soho is a vibrant and diverse community, with a unique mix of art galleries, designer boutiques, world-class restaurants, and traditional local shops. With its countless attractions and activities, Soho has something for everyone and is a great place to explore for both locals and tourists alike.

Things to Do in Soho

From art galleries and art-house movie theaters to boutique shopping and gourmet eateries, there is no shortage of things to do in Soho. Here are some of the top attractions the neighborhood has to offer:

Shopping

Soho is one of New York City’s premier shopping districts, boasting an array of designer boutiques and stores. From luxury brands such as Prada and Louis Vuitton to independent boutiques like Opening Ceremony and Kith, shoppers can find just about anything they’re looking for in Soho. The neighborhood also has an array of specialty stores, from comic book stores to vintage clothing shops.

Galleries & Museums

Soho is home to some of the world’s most renowned art galleries, showcasing works from some of the most influential artists in history. The neighborhood has also become a center for contemporary art galleries, with many young artists using the area as a platform to showcase their work. Some of the popular galleries include the Leo Castelli Gallery, Gagosian Gallery, and Pace Gallery.

The neighborhood also offers a variety of museums and cultural centers. The New Museum of Contemporary Art is located in Soho and showcases groundbreaking exhibitions from some of the world’s most innovative artists. Other popular museums in the area include the Museum of Modern Art Design Store, the International Print Center New York, and the International Center of Photography.

Restaurants & Nightlife

Soho is home to some of the city’s most celebrated restaurants and bars. From fine dining establishments such as Daniel Boulud’s DBGB Kitchen & Bar to cozy neighborhood favorites like Balthazar, there is something for every taste. The neighborhood also has a lively nightlife scene, with many bars and nightclubs offering music, dancing, and drinks all night long.

Popular Tours Around Soho

Soho is a great destination for those looking to explore all that New York has to offer. Whether you’re interested in sightseeing, history or culture, there are plenty of tours available to choose from. Here are two popular tours around Soho:

Small-Group Walking Tour of Soho & Little Italy

Explore the vibrant streets of Soho and Little Italy on this two-hour small-group walking tour. Led by an experienced guide, this tour takes visitors around some of Soho’s most iconic sites, including Washington Square Park, St. Patrick’s Old Cathedral, and Little Italy’s Mulberry Street. This tour also provides an opportunity to learn about the history and culture of this unique neighborhood as well as get a taste of its vibrant food scene. Book this walking tour here.

Sightseeing Bus Tour of Lower Manhattan

This hop-on hop-off sightseeing bus tour is a great way to explore the sights around lower Manhattan. With multiple stops along the route including Times Square, Wall Street, Greenwich Village, Chinatown and Little Italy, this tour provides an easy way to get around while learning about the history of each area. The tour also includes audio commentary in multiple languages as well as complimentary Wi-Fi on board. Book a bus tour here.

Conclusion

Soho is one of New York City’s most beloved neighborhoods and is filled with endless activities for visitors to enjoy. From shopping at designer boutiques to exploring art galleries and museums or simply enjoying a meal or drink at one of the neighborhood’s eateries or bars, there is something for everyone in Soho. Whether you’re visiting for a day or planning an extended stay in New York City, be sure to check out all that Soho has to offer for an unforgettable experience!