Quick Profile
Famous for its art galleries, designer boutiques, cobblestone streets and cast-iron architecture, SoHo has always been full of buzz - wowing both tourists and locals alike. It’s rich with history (more so than most neighborhoods). So, whether you’re a computer nerd, serial shopper or foodie, you’re guaranteed to find something exciting to do in this storied neighborhood.
SoHo is bounded by Houston Street to the north, Canal Street in the south, 6th Avenue to the west and Crosby Street on the east.
The neighborhood has gone through many ups and downs over its long history. Enough to make a voluminous history book. When the Dutch discovered Lower Manhattan, they came across indigenous people living on the island. Technically, the American Indians were the first Manhattanites and then the Dutch moved in making them the second original Manhattanites.
After the Civil War ended, the west side of Lower Manhattan flourished because the shipping routes changed. Textiles and the need for all types of products increased. Warehouses and large lofts were built and replaced farmland to accommodate the commerce. Many of those buildings are still standing and give SoHo its unique character and charm.
The bustling commerce eventually stopped and in the mid 1800’s, well-to-do families began moving into SoHo. They built exquisite buildings, many of which are characterized by their cast-iron facades. Soon after it became residential, theatres, music halls and eateries followed. The wealthy eventually left and the once prosperous district began another decline.
The 1960’s marks SoHo’s most definitive period. City planners lost their bid to build a major highway that would level a portion of the neighborhood and many historic buildings. After their failed attempt to revitalize SoHo, artists quickly moved into the empty lofts and warehouses. Some legally, and other move-ins, not so legal. The city turned a blind eye. Artists of all mediums working from their new creative spaces created a ripple in the art scene. It was such a ripple that the well-to-do uptown crowd started buying their art and hanging out with them. The uptown folks eventually moved into the neighborhood and began buying up the lofts and warehouses. As soon as the word spread, up went the property values and the rest is history.
Destination Spots
Peter Freeman Gallery has locations in both Paris and SoHo in New York City. The gallery previews relevant artists of the 19th and 20th century with a concentration on early pop and minimal works. The space is situated on the ground floor and basement of a landmarked building on Grand Street. The gallery includes a library, viewing room, art handling facilities, and administrative offices.
Joanne Hendricks Cookbooks - For the cookbook collector in you. There aren’t too many places in New York City like this. It’s a small shop but well worth the visit. You’ll find a plethora of out-of-print and vintage cookbooks, some very cool collectible tableware, vintage photographs and old cocktail books.
BoCaphe – Sometimes you just want to try something different. If so, BoCaphe is your spot. It’s cozy and eclectic, and the décor is a little out there too. The food is beyond fantastic and they serve a variety of healthy French-influenced Vietnamese dishes. They offer wine and cocktails and other colorful dishes.
MoMA Design Store. As the name implies, it is part of the Museum of Modern Art in Midtown Manhattan. If design is your thing, you’ll be happy to know that every product that is sold in the shop is curated by professional designers and artists. The products are assessed against eight criteria to ensure that each item fits their vision of good design.
What You Might See
Tourists and shops for starters, they’re everywhere. Despite all the tourists it’s still one of the best places in the city for retail therapy. There are tons of stores in SoHo. Everything from luxury brands, mom and pop, and big box retailers. You’ll definitely find it in SoHo.
Architecture! Just look up it is everywhere. Stately cast-iron buildings are so prominent in this neck of the woods that part of it is called The SoHo Cast Iron Historic District. There are plenty of walking tours that discuss this beautiful detail of architecture.
What You Don’t Know
In the 1850s, SoHo was known as one of Manhattan’s most popular red-light districts. Times have changed as it’s now one of the most coveted zip codes in Manhattan.
The name SoHo was coined by a New York City Planning Commissioner named Chester Rapkin.
Houses, Co-ops, and Condos for Sale and Rent in Soho
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