Soho
With so many neighborhoods clearly inspired by SoHo—Manhattan’s Lower East Side and West Village have turned into mini-SoHo-like hoods—there’s nothing like the real thing. The historic landmarked neighborhood features the world’s most impressive collection of cast-iron architecture, and had its heyday as an artsy neighborhood for people like Jean-Michel Basquiat and Andy Warhol. It remains culturally relevant, as the Mercer Hotel is a spot where celebs like Kanye West stay. SoHo is obviously known for fashion, and is home to designers like Patrik Ervell and boutiques like Opening Ceremony. A longtime shopping mecca, SoHo hosts numerous shops. A majority of New York street style is shot here; just check The Sartorialist and you’ll easily recognize the neighborhood’s cobblestone streets and numerous fire escapes.