One of Manhattan’s most interesting areas, the Lower East Side combines a rich immigrant heritage with a bohemian character that still survives today. Contemporary art galleries and fine dining have begun to proliferate. Visit the Lower East Side to experience a unique New York mix featuring a day of cultural exploration, eating, drinking and waterfront walking. 

Learn about early immigrant life at the Tenement Museum. In tenement buildings such as these, over 15,000 immigrants lived in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, often working desperately hard to build lives in America. Explore the recreated home and garment shop of a Jewish-American family, encounter personal narratives and try ethnic cuisine in neighborhood structures.

The Lower East Side has been an artistic hub for decades. Delve into the world of contemporary art by visiting the renowned New Museum, appreciating sculptures, paintings and installations from diverse global artists. Admire its unusual design, which resembles a series of unevenly stacked white boxes. Stop at the Sperone Westwater Gallery, housing works from artists such as Helmut Lang and Susan Rothenberg in an award-winning building.

Have a meal at Katz’s Delicatessen, the classic New York deli where a famous scene in When Harry Met Sally… was filmed. Shop for bagels and lox at the family-owned Russ & Daughters Cafe or head to the Essex Market to sample flavors from all over the world in a state-of-the-art food hall.

Beloved for its nightlife, the Lower East Side has an exciting ambiance after dark. Select from dive bars or watch a show at the Bowery Ballroom, an illustrious indie venue with multiple bars and performance spaces.

The Lower East Side is located in downtown Manhattan, immediately south of the East Village. The area is well served by a number of subway lines. Travel by taxi if necessary but traffic is often heavy. Relax with a scenic walk along the East River Waterfront Esplanade, which offers lovely views over the iconic Manhattan Bridge and the East River.