Things to Do in Chinatown and Little Italy NYC

Exploring the vibrant neighborhoods of Chinatown and Little Italy in New York City is like taking a cultural journey through two of the city’s most historic and bustling districts. Each area offers its unique charm, attractions, and experiences. Here’s a guide to help you make the most of your visit.

Chinatown:

1. Visit the Chinatown Fair: This arcade, located on Mott Street, is a classic spot offering a variety of vintage and modern games. It’s a great place to experience local culture and have fun.

2. Explore the Chinatown Street Markets: Wander through the markets on Canal Street and beyond. These markets are perfect for finding unique souvenirs, exotic fruits, and traditional Chinese goods. Don’t miss the bustling, colorful stalls and street vendors.

3. Tour the Museum of Chinese in America (MOCA): Located at 215 Centre Street, this museum offers fascinating exhibits about the Chinese-American experience. It provides a deep dive into the history and culture of Chinese immigrants in the U.S.

4. Eat Authentic Chinese Food: Chinatown is renowned for its food. Try dim sum at places like Jing Fong or Nom Wah Tea Parlor. For a more adventurous dining experience, head to Xi’an Famous Foods for their hand-pulled noodles.

5. Stroll Through Columbus Park: This park is a hub of activity where locals play mahjong and other games. It’s a great place to observe everyday life in Chinatown.

6. Visit the Chinese Consolidated Benevolent Association: This historic building, at 62 Mott Street, represents the oldest Chinese-American organization in New York City. It’s an interesting spot to learn about the early Chinese-American community.

Little Italy:

1. Enjoy a Classic Italian Meal: Little Italy is famous for its Italian restaurants. Try iconic eateries like Lombardi’s Pizza, known for its coal-oven pies, or visit Da Gennaro for traditional Italian dishes.

2. Walk Along Mulberry Street: This street is the heart of Little Italy. It’s lined with charming shops, cafes, and restaurants. It’s also where the Feast of San Gennaro, a popular street festival, takes place each September.

3. Visit the Italian American Museum: Located at 155 Mulberry Street, this museum celebrates Italian-American heritage with exhibits on Italian culture, history, and contributions to American society.

4. Check Out the San Gennaro Festival: If you’re visiting in September, don’t miss this famous festival. It features street food, live music, and parades, celebrating the patron saint of Naples, San Gennaro.

5. Explore Ferrara Bakery & Café: Established in 1892, this bakery is a Little Italy institution. It’s the perfect place to enjoy traditional Italian pastries and desserts like cannoli and tiramisu.

6. Visit the Old St. Patrick’s Cathedral: This historic church, located at 263 Mulberry Street, is a beautiful example of Gothic Revival architecture. It’s an important site in both religious and cultural history.

Combining Both Neighborhoods:

• Take a Food Tour: Many tours offer a combination of Chinatown and Little Italy, providing a taste of both cuisines and cultures in one go. This is an excellent way to sample the best of both neighborhoods.

• Explore the Area by Foot: Both Chinatown and Little Italy are best explored on foot. They are located close to each other, and walking between them lets you fully experience the vibrant street life and architectural details.

• Visit the Lower East Side Tenement Museum: This museum is not far from either neighborhood and provides additional context on the immigrant experience in New York City. It complements your visit to Chinatown and Little Italy by offering broader historical insights.

By exploring these two iconic neighborhoods, you’ll get a rich taste of New York City’s diverse cultural heritage and vibrant street life. Whether you’re savoring delicious food, enjoying historical sites, or simply soaking in the atmosphere, Chinatown and Little Italy offer a memorable experience.