Top Things to Do in SoHo, Manhattan

Street art, graffiti, painted wall of a building, Soho, Manhattan, New York
Street art, graffiti, painted wall of a building, Soho, Manhattan, New York | © imageBROKER / Alamy Stock Photo
Ashlyn Grisetti

Known as an artists’ getaway in the 1960s and ’70s, Manhattan‘s hip SoHo neighborhood is famous for its cast-iron architecture, trendy shops, and innovative art galleries. SoHo spans the area from South Houston Street to Canal Street, and is bounded on the east by Lafayette Street. Here are our curated picks of the top 10 things to see and do in SoHo.

Did you know – Culture Trip now does bookable, small-group trips? Pick from authentic, immersive Epic Trips, compact and action-packed Mini Trips and sparkling, expansive Sailing Trips.

Everyman Espresso

New York is one of the epicenters of finely crafted coffee creations. Located in the lobby of the Classic Stage Company, Everyman Espresso knows how to make its customers feel at home. Owner Sam believes in creating a customer-barista connection by not displaying any menus. Baristas guide a customer through a “coffee experience,” offering suggestions and curating a specialty drink just right for them. This low-key café is a must-try for those looking for a new coffee experience, along with anyone who loves their latte art.

Not your average museum store, MoMA Design Store in SoHo offers everything from trendy fashions, technology, décor items, and even furniture. Shop for unique gifts from classic designers and up-and-coming artistic talents. On the lower level of the store, shoppers can find a collection of Muji products that range from clothing to colored pencils. This Japanese retailer celebrates a minimalist philosophy and uses clean designs to inspire their products. Find your inner artist at the MoMA design store.

Apple Store SoHo

Before you shake your head as to why an Apple Store is on our list, get a load of this – exclusive, minimal publicity events are held right upstairs in the Apple Theater. Events are usually posted online a week or two ahead of time, so be sure to check the site for details. Upcoming events include a Meet the Filmmaker series, including the directors from the films The Gift and That Sugar Film, a documentary on the effects of excessive sugar intake.

Mercer Kitchen

Since opening its doors in 1998, Mercer Kitchen has continuously drawn a crowd of fresh talents from the art and fashion world. Candlelit sconces, exposed brick, and long communal tables give the restaurant a high end, stylish ambiance. Guests can enjoy an open kitchen and watch the chefs prepare their meals, which include options from a raw seafood bar and truffle pizza. Be sure to visit the elegant bar area and enjoy the customer favorite Raspberry Lychee Bellini.

Film Forum

While you won’t be able to see the latest big budget blockbuster here, this independent film house showcases foreign films and cutting-edge documentaries. Having opened its doors in the 1970s, Film Forum is the only autonomous, nonprofit cinema in New York City and is dedicated to showing independent films as well as American classics. Check out the special Listen To Me Marlon that displays beloved film star Marlon Brando as much more than Vito Corleone.

The Leslie-Lohman Museum of Gay and Lesbian Art

The artsy history of SoHo provides a perfect backdrop to bring the perspective of LGBTQ artists to the NYC art world. The Leslie-Lohman Museum strives not only to preserve the unique artwork but to make sure the history of the LBGTQ community is not lost. A collection of over 24,000 sculptures, paintings, and photography embraces the many artists displayed as individuals. Walking through the doors of this museum enlightens, entertains, and inspires the creative soul in all of us.

Dominique Ansel Bakery

The home of the beloved cronut, Dominique Ansel Bakery has delivered mouthwatering creative treats to its customers since opening its doors in late 2011. The cronut, a hybrid between a croissant and a doughnut, has gained popularity throughout the world and has earned owner Dominique Ansel the James Beard award for Outstanding Pastry Chef. For a fun twist on the original chocolate chip cookie, be sure to try the chocolate chip cookie shots served with vanilla milk. Not to be missed is the lobster tail creation – a pull apart pretzel stuffed with butter-crunch brittle and peanut butter that comes served with whipped brown butter honey.

Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.

Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.

Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.

Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.

We know that many of you worry about the environmental impact of travel and are looking for ways of expanding horizons in ways that do minimal harm - and may even bring benefits. We are committed to go as far as possible in curating our trips with care for the planet. That is why all of our trips are flightless in destination, fully carbon offset - and we have ambitious plans to be net zero in the very near future.

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