SoHo is a neighborhood in Lower Manhattan that is known for art galleries, lofts, shopping and a few interesting restaurants and bars. The pandemic has of course dampened the vibrance of the area and caused it to be littered with what we will refer to as “outdoor dining structures”. These shacks have definitely reduced the attractiveness of the area, but SoHo is still a nice destination to visit for an afternoon or evening.
The Name “SoHo”
Many tourists and visitors from Europe ask about the name “SoHo”, since it’s often seen written as “Soho”, as if it were a proper name. The neighborhood is not named after a person like so many other NYC neighborhoods; in fact it’s a shortening of the description “South of Houston Street”. Houston Street is a large street that spans the width of Lower Manhattan. So, this neighborhood is just South of Houston Street, and that is where it gets its name. Clever, right?
There are other neighborhoods which follow the same area-descriptive naming pattern, most notably TriBeCa (Triangle Below Canal Street) and DUMBO (Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass).
Unique Architecture
Fortunately, one of the most interesting features of SoHo remains intact and unhindered: the beautiful cream-colored buildings with their thick columns, large windows and cast-iron facades.
The architecture is so distinctive that just by looking at a photo you can tell “this must have been taken in SoHo”. It truly is a unique-looking neighborhood, and I can’t think of any other area that has the look that SoHo does.
The area is not far from a few major Lower Manhattan landmarks. On certain SoHo streets, you can see One World Trade Center in the distance, as well as 56 Leonard Street (which New Yorkers call the “Jenga Building”).
If you’re a tourist visiting NYC, definitely take an hour or two and head down to SoHo. Spend a little time roaming the streets, taking pictures, and visiting the various shops. Wander into an art gallery. You can even plan your SoHo trip as part of a larger day, such as before or after a visit to One World Trade Center. SoHo will always remain an interesting neighborhood to explore and should be experienced at least once.
Are you planning to visit SoHo, or have you already visited? What are your thoughts about the neighborhood? Leave a comment below, and don’t forget to follow me on Instagram.