East Village

Known and loved for being the birthplace of punk rock, the East Village draws locals and residents from across the city to its vibrant restaurants and eclectic cocktail dens. During the day, however, the neighborhood slows down and takes on a more tranquil feel. Smack dab in the middle of the nabe is Tompkins Square Park, where you’ll find locals sunbathing on the lawn, grabbing a bagel nearby, attempting kickflips in the skate park, or exercising their pups at the dog run. Head to St. Marks Place, a lively three-block stretch of East 8th Street, for vintage shopping, casual drinks, late-night eats, and echelons of the neighborhood’s punk and bohemian past. Avenues A through D form Alphabet City, containing many of the East Village’s historic prewar buildings from its days as a cultural center and ethnic enclave. Meander down a leafy side street and you’ll happen upon more prewar buildings and rusting fire escapes, which lend the East Village its old-school charm.

The Mood

At any point during the day, things are happening in the East Village. The streets are busy and the shops are full around the clock.

Heart of the Neighborhood

Revelers flock to St. Mark’s Place, where vendors sell falafel, punk rock clothing, incense, and much more.

Neighborhood Quirk

Vestiges of the historic Eastern European community can still be found at places like Ukrainian Village, Veselka, and the Russian & Turkish Baths dating back to 1892.

Best Perk

Living in the East Village gives you automatic local cred. It's lively, unpredictable, and 100% New York City.

Biggest Downside

Most of the housing stock is prewar, meaning many apartments are in walk-up buildings, tend to be small, and may need updates.