East Village
Once the epicenter of New York counterculture, the East Village may well have cleaned up its act, but a beguiling bohemian vibe still prevails. Its streets throng with a thrillingly cosmopolitan crowd of artists, students and creative professionals, while its cutting-edge galleries, legendary music venues and off-Broadway theaters draw culture vultures from far and wide. East Village vacation rentals include stylish loft apartments and exquisitely refurbished townhouses, so you can experience NYC like a local. Across the neighborhood, you can expect to find bustling bars, chic independent shops and restaurants serving mouth-watering cuisine from every corner of the globe.
Seductive shopping in the East Village
The East Village shopping scene offers an effortlessly hip, idiosyncratic alternative to the flagship stores of 5th Avenue. Here you'll find treasure-filled antique emporiums, quirky vintage fashion stores and endlessly captivating indie record and book shops. East Village eateries are a similarly eclectic bunch – take your pick from awe-inspiring Asian fusion cuisine or fiery modern Mexican fare, buttery lobster rolls or gut-busting brunches. After dinner, savor a digestif in a sleek cocktail lounge or low-lit dive bar, or burn off some of those calories by dancing the night away in a pulsing local club.
Lazy summer days in the East Village
New York is one of the world's most thrilling year-round destinations, so East Village vacation rentals are always in high demand. Early booking is particularly advisable if you're planning a trip during the peak summer season of June to August, when the days are long and the weather is typically hot. Thunderstorms are not uncommon, however, and humidity can also be high at this time of year. For an action-packed city break, you may prefer the milder climes of spring or fall. Winters can be extremely cold, so be sure to wrap up warm if visiting between December and February.
Manhattan's pristine parks
While the relentless pace of Manhattan may be overwhelming at times, the island is dotted with lush green spaces and sprawling parks where you can recharge your batteries at your own pace. Hudson River Park is an expansive waterfront recreation space ideal for a brisk morning jog or long leisurely walk. Meanwhile, the dense woodlands of sprawling Central Park are home to a surprising array of wildlife, from cute gray squirrels to chirping songbirds.