A good way to immerse yourself in the Lower East Side’s history, culture, or culinary diversity is to join a tour of the area on a topic that interests you—whether that’s street art, multiethnic cuisine, the immigrant experience, or the influence of organized crime groups. Alternatively, wander the streets on a broader walking tour that introduces you to the neighborhood’s landmarks and hidden gems.
The Lower East Side is a must for New York City history buffs.
Unlike in much of Manhattan, the Lower East Side’s streets are numbered, making navigation slightly trickier.
Be prepared to wait in line to get into the long-standing Katz’s Delicatessen, recognizable from the movie When Harry Met Sally.
Manhattan’s Lower East Side is easily accessible via subway, 24 hours a day. Or, take the M15 bus, which travels along Houston Street.
There’s always something going on on the Lower East Side, but the neighborhood is generally liveliest after dark. On Friday and Saturday nights, New Yorkers hit the many bars, clubs, and music venues clustered around Ludlow and Orchard streets. Late Sunday is another popular time, when area restaurants serve brunch.
A handful of museums cater to different interests on the Lower East Side. Check out the Tenement Museum to see how Manhattan’s earliest immigrants lived, or view the current exhibition of contemporary art at the New Museum. And if you want to learn more about Manhattan’s Jewish history, don’t miss the Museum at Eldridge Street, housed in a synagogue that opened in 1887.
