Unlock East Village: Hidden Gems & Local Secrets
Secret NYC
Located in Brooklyn, The Prospect Park Zoo and its 12-acre facility features more than 125 species of animals and family-friendly exhibits that are perfect for kids of all ages. Check out fun exhibits like the Sea Lion Court, where you can observe these majestic mammals in their true element or the The Hall of Animals, which showcases some of the smallest, yet most exciting animals in the zoo, such as the poison dart frog or fennec fox. Or maybe even end your trip with The Discovery Trail, a walkthrough of everything from red pandas to dingos. While you’re in the area, be sure to check out other attractions too like the Brooklyn Botanical Garden and the Brooklyn Museum!
Time Out New York
Find Little Paris on Centre Street, between Broome and Grand Street. Even the stars of Emily in Paris have hung out in this neighborhood, and if it's Chef Gabriel-endorsed, you know it's legit. Interestingly, the lack of a specified space for Francophiles in Manhattan wasn't always the case. In the late 19th Century, Soho had its own French Quarter, as chronicled in an 1879 issue of Scribner's Monthly: "The people are nearly all French. French too is the language of the signs over the doors and in the windows." Ready to dive into the Paris-within-Manhattan? Here are a few French businesses in Little Paris to check out whether you're celebrating the Paris Olympics or just saying "oui" to a French experience without crossing the pond.
New York City Dreamland
Prima Brooklyn Wine Bar: coffee and wine in Clinton Hill And the people who make Prima! Our weird and wonderful little café wine bar first date solo date group date chess knit natural dye poetry reading chef pop up Caribbean lively leaky wholesome wild whirlwind of a place.
THE ROOFTOP GUIDE
Elsie Rooftop really brings a slice of fashionable 1920s cocktail bar to the heart of Midtown Manhattan. Set on the 25th floor of an office building near Bryant Park, the rooftop comes with an upscale and glamorous indoor lounge, surrounded by a wraparound terrace overlooking the Manhattan skyscrapers. The rooftop bar serves progressive mixology cocktails, along with wines, champagne and an upscale seasonally focused light fare menu.
newyorkcity.explore
Discover the vibrant umbrella installation at Hillel Place Plaza! 🌂🌈✨ 💡 Located in the heart of Brooklyn, the colorful umbrellas at Hillel Place Plaza create a stunning and whimsical canopy that transforms the space into a lively and artistic oasis. This installation not only adds a splash of color to the urban landscape but also provides a unique backdrop for photos and a joyful atmosphere for visitors. Whether you're strolling through the plaza, relaxing under the umbrellas, or enjoying the surrounding shops and cafes, this installation brings a sense of fun and creativity to the neighborhood.
Secret NYC
Explore an incredible 15,000-square-foot museum filled with Banksy-inspired art! Calling all Banksy-heads and street art lovers: embrace the legacy of one of history’s greatest street at NYC’s Banksy Museum filled with the largest collection of work inspired by his creations! Uncover his unique pieces of work and get a deeper look into the mysterious artist. The production available at the museum is unauthorised and unaffiliated with the artist.
Mingomatic
🏮 Explore the Vibrant Chinatown in Manhattan! 🏮 Step into a world of rich culture, history, and amazing flavors in Chinatown, Manhattan. From bustling markets and colorful storefronts to delicious dim sum and traditional tea houses, there's something magical around every corner. 🏙️✨ Stroll through the vibrant streets, visit unique shops, and immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of this iconic neighborhood. Don’t forget to check out landmarks like the Mahayana Buddhist Temple and Columbus Park! 🕍🌳
See also
Dining in Willowbrook: Explore Local Dining Experiences & Foodie Favorites Near NYC
Explore the East Village: NYC's Hub of Local Secrets
If you’re looking to explore the vibrant cultural mosaic that is East Village near NYC, then you’re in for a treat. This neighborhood blends artistic flair and historical charm, steeped in unique experiences perfect for local exploration. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned New Yorker, discover why East Village has become one of the city’s trending spots for exploration.
Hidden Gems of East Village
East Village is brimming with hidden gems just waiting to be discovered. Start your journey at the famed St. Mark’s Place, a bustling street lined with eclectic shops, vintage boutiques, and trendy cafes. For a touch of history, visit the Tompkins Square Park, a green oasis where you can relax, people-watch, or even catch an outdoor concert.
Looking for a local secret on where to grab a bite? Head to Veselka, a Ukrainian diner that's been serving delicious dishes since 1954. Opt for their pierogi and borscht for an authentic taste of the neighborhood's cultural diversity. Another hidden food gem is the Spotted Pig, known for its cozy vibes and scrumptious burgers.
Cultural Exploration
Art enthusiasts should not miss the East Village’s rich array of galleries and street art. The area is home to numerous independent art galleries showcasing works from emerging artists. Stroll down the Bowery for a visual feast of vibrant street murals and graffiti, a testament to the neighborhood’s artistic spirit.
For those interested in live performances, the East Village offers a plethora of options. Check out the New York Theatre Workshop for innovative and thought-provoking productions. Alternatively, catch a live music show at the iconic Bowery Ballroom, a small venue that has hosted big-name artists in an intimate setting.
Trending Spots
When it comes to trendy spots, East Village never disappoints. The neighborhood is known for its avant-garde fashion, with many independent designers and vintage shops offering unique clothing and accessories. Visit shops like Tokio7 and Assembly New York for cutting-edge fashion finds that reflect East Village’s distinctive style.
Cafes like Café Mogador provide the perfect blend of trendy and traditional. Established in 1983, this café offers an inviting atmosphere paired with Moroccan-inspired dishes. For a more modern twist, visit the Blue Bottle Coffee for a superb cup of ethically-sourced coffee. These spots are often frequented by locals, making them ideal for those looking to mingle and gain local insights.
Local Nightlife
As the sun sets, East Village transforms into a nightlife haven. Begin your evening at the speakeasy-style Please Don't Tell (PDT), accessible through a vintage phone booth inside Crif Dogs. This hidden gem offers a menu of craft cocktails that are both innovative and crave-worthy.
For those who enjoy live music, visit Rockwood Music Hall, where you can catch up-and-coming bands and solo artists. Prefer a laid-back bar? Drop by McSorley's Old Ale House, one of NYC’s oldest pubs, dating back to 1854. This historical bar serves only two kinds of ale—light and dark—in a setting that feels like stepping back in time.
Local Insights and Travel Tips
One of the best ways to truly explore East Village is to strike up conversations with locals. Platforms like Kikihub offer an excellent opportunity to gain real opinions and local secrets. By engaging with East Village residents, you can uncover hidden spots that don’t typically make tourist guides.
Peak times for exploring the East Village are typically late mornings and early afternoons. Weekends can get crowded, so plan your visit accordingly. Public transportation is another advantage; with several subway lines and bus routes passing through the area, getting to East Village is a breeze.
When exploring, don't be afraid to take a detour down the neighborhood’s lesser-known streets and alleys. Each corner of East Village reveals something new, from hole-in-the-wall eateries to spontaneous street performances.
Following these travel tips and local insights will ensure your journey through East Village is not just an exploration, but a deeply enriching experience that captures the eclectic essence of this iconic NYC neighborhood.
