A charming enclave of artists, historic buildings, and luxe retail venues
A beautiful melding of the city’s hottest shops, charming cobblestone streets, and colorful collection of artists provides the foundation of SoHo’s trendy, effervescent atmosphere. SoHo, and Hudson Square adjacent on its western edge, comprise some of NYC’s most influential art galleries, dashing historic homes, and a fashionable personality that draws in residents looking to be on the cusp of all that is new and exciting.
Artists clamored to occupy the neighborhoods’ spacious lofts full of natural light in the 1970s, and since then, the area has developed a reputation for its bohemian style. More recently, SoHo and Hudson Square—sometimes referred to as West SoHo—have seen an influx of high-end shops and restaurants, adding to its appeal. Hudson Square has additionally been named as the location for brand new headquarters for both Google and Disney.
The neighborhood’s longstanding history is reflected well in its abundance in historic homes and architectural sites, including the abundance of Georgian and Federal Revivalist houses in Hudson Square and The SoHo Cast Iron Historic District, as well as tunning luxury co-ops and modernized studio lofts tucked behind historic cast-iron exteriors and 19th-century walk-ups.
What to Love
- Undeniable creative energy from the thriving artists’ community
- A bevy of retail and dining options set along quaint cobblestone streets
- Plenty of work-live lofts and historic homes
People & Lifestyle
SoHo and Hudson Square lie in Lower Manhattan, nestled between the Hudson River and neighborhoods such as Little Italy, Chinatown, NoHo, and TriBeCa. Consequently, the neighborhoods are overflowing with diversity and offer residents easy transport to many of Manhattan’s most beloved attractions.
Dining, Shopping, & Entertainment
There’s always a fresh boutique or name-brand retailer around every corner in SoHo and Hudson Square, packed between enough restaurants to make the area a veritable foodie heaven. For instance, a simple stroll along Broadway takes you past stylish, locally-owned stores such as Mystique Boutique, as well as major brands like Madewell, Levi’s, and AllSaints. While you’re there, you’d be remiss if you didn’t step into Artists & Fleas to check out the conglomeration of local artists, makers, and creative types putting their products out for purchase.
Dining in SoHo varies from niche coffee shops to elite international fine dining, with every shade in-between colored with an alluring tapestry of flavors. Set inside a historic landmark building, The James Brown House, The Ear Inn is the place to go for elevated bar fare and an inspiring collection of craft brews. West of SoHo in Hudson Square, Houseman is another popular eatery serving up new American fare inside its rustic digs furnished with reclaimed wood.
Hungering after some classic and authentic Italian cuisine? San Marino Ristorante’s menu is loaded with mouth-watering options certain to satisfy. Those who prefer a more casual bite to eat can dine in at Amelia’s Diner and get a taste of their in-demand breakfast, brunch, and lunch staples.
Things To Do
Whether you’re hosting an event of your own, attending a show, checking out a museum, or hitting one of the many locally-owned stores and browsing the art, there’s never a dull minute in SoHo and Hudson Square. Start your day at the New York City Fire Museum and reclaim your childlike-awe by marveling at the astonishing history of the city’s firefighters. For a thrillingly sweet experience, you can then head to the Ice Cream Museum, where the interactive exhibits and pops of color make for a magical time no matter your age.
Take charge of your own fun by renting out space at The Hudson Collective, whose rooftop amenities and white-box interior make the perfect blank canvas for any event. The neighborhood’s vast art galleries are one of the biggest appeals of the area, and notable locations include the modern art collections of the Jeffrey Deitch gallery, the pop and minimalist creations at Peter Freeman Inc., and the modern Italian beauties at the Center for Italian Modern Art.
