Manhattan, New York
SoHo
SoHo — south of Houston Street — is famous for its cast-iron architecture and large converted lofts. Once an industrial district and artists' enclave, it is now a global shopping destination.
Local Character & History
Broadway, Spring Street and Prince Street are lined with cast-iron facades and flagship stores. Side streets retain a quieter residential character above the ground-floor retail.
Restaurants & Shopping
Cafes, bakeries and restaurants are tucked between shops, with a mix of French, Italian, Japanese and contemporary American options.
Housing
Loft co-ops and condominiums dominate, with some newer boutique buildings. Prices are high and apartments are often large by Manhattan standards.
Parks & Recreation
Father Fagan Park and nearby Washington Square Park and Hudson River Park provide green space; the neighborhood itself is short on parkland.
Transportation
The N/R/W at Prince Street, the C/E at Spring Street and the 6 at Spring Street serve the area, with Houston Street as a major crosstown route.
Nearby Attractions
- Cast-iron architecture
- Shopping on Broadway
- Housing Works Bookstore
- Nearby Washington Square Park
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is SoHo famous for cast iron?
SoHo has the largest collection of cast-iron buildings in the world, built as warehouses and factories in the late 19th century.
Is SoHo residential?
Yes. Upper floors of the cast-iron buildings hold co-ops and condominiums, though ground floors are mostly retail.