For my first post, I am providing a walking tour I conducted for my journalism class called The Beat- Reporting Downtown. My neighborhood is SoHo and I happen to live there this semester as well!

An interactive tour from The New York Times website was my guide on a detailed walk through SoHo, in downtown Manhattan. Coincidentally, SoHo, which locals know means “South of Houston,” is also my new residence. In order to fully appreciate the true charm of this diverse milieu, it is necessary to slow down and stay for more than just a New York minute. My trip began on Houston “Howston” Street, a pronunciation commonly butchered by tourists. Next, I walked down Broadway at a very slow pace, dodging the constant stream of humanity in what is one of the most crowded areas in all Manhattan. Here there is an abundance of larger-than-life retail chain establishments and, for those who prefer to shop in a smaller venue, the sidewalks are dotted with street vendors selling knockoffs, colorful trinkets, and plenty of New York City paraphernalia.

My favorite part of the walking tour was the stretch of Mercer between Houston and Broome. This brick-lined street is lively, yet also quiet by downtown standards. Many high fashion designers have chosen this locale for their exclusive boutiques, and the atmosphere is chic and upscale. The buildings on Mercer are architecturally fascinating with their enormous windows and off-white facades. Of particular note is the E.V. Haughwout Building, which is home to the city’s first passenger elevator. The Roman Classical Revival style structure was built in 1857 with a cast iron, arched edifice and street-level columns that have earned it landmark status. Walking through SoHo is both a learning experience and an opportunity to enjoy an intriguing mixture of old city charm and modern opportunity.

Link to The New York Times SoHo walking tour