Midtown Manhattan is the heart of
New York City as it encompasses practically everything the rest of the world knows about the Big Apple. No less than Times Square, the Chrysler Building, Grand Central Station, and the Empire State Building are all located here, and these are just the iconic landmarks. When you actually get to explore the district, which itself includes many of the city's most notable neighborhoods, you'll find that Midtown Manhattan is just as diverse and as electric as the major metropolis itself. New York City is widely regarded as the quintessential big city, and this area proves it in leaps and bounds!
Where is Midtown Manhattan in New York City?
True to its name, Midtown Manhattan is right smack in the middle of the
New York City borough. It's the largest district on the island, encompassing the central area between 34th Street and 59th Street. The East River is also to its east, while the Hudson River is to its west, which means Midtown spans from one end of Manhattan Island to the next. It's safe to say that Midtown Manhattan is one, if not the biggest
neighborhood in New York City, almost as if it's an entire borough instead of a single district.
Is it Safe in Midtown Manhattan, New York City?
Though Midtown Manhattan is generally considered safe, it's more accurate to say that it's moderate. As already mentioned, Midtown Manhattan is practically New York City itself, complete with one of the biggest land areas in the metropolis and serving as its central business district. And since
New York City's crime rates are only moderate, so are Midtown Manhattan's. Violent crime is fortunately low here, but petty crimes remain a problem. Most locals also know to avoid Times Square, which, although one of the most famous spots in the Big Apple, is notorious for its sketchy characters, pickpockets, and the like.
What's The Vibe in Midtown Manhattan, New York City?
The iconic image of a bustling Big Apple with its sprawling metropolis is Midtown Manhattan. The vast neighborhood includes Times Square, Broadway, Midtown East, the Garment District, the Meatpacking District, Hell's Kitchen, the Hudson Yards, and more. Not only are these some of the most notable parts of the city, but they're also among the busiest. Countless industries thrive here, from fashion and finance to news media and entertainment. Hence, people are always zooming about, working well into the night, and upholding New York's reputation as the “city that never sleeps.” Anyone
moving to New York City who plans to live here will need a lot of gumption!
Is it Expensive in Midtown Manhattan, New York City?
Without a doubt! Park Avenue and the Upper East Side tend to be more notorious as the city's most expensive neighborhoods, but Midtown Manhattan is just as pricey. And that's on top of the fact that the
living costs in New York are already generally high. The rent here, for example, is rarely below $3,000.00, while penthouse apartments and townhouses are a dime a dozen. Want to eat out in Midtown Manhattan? Expect to pay approximately $25.00 to $45.00 per mid-range meal, considerably higher than the $15.00 to $30.00 per meal average in Lower Manhattan.
What to See in Midtown Manhattan, New York City
Midtown Manhattan is a treasure trove of New York's most iconic landmarks. Times Square, Grand Central Station, the Empire State Building, the Chrysler Building, Rockefeller Center, and even the southern edge of Central Park are all located in the vast area. To say that these spots are famous is an understatement! While the Statue of Liberty is widely regarded as the 'symbol' of New York City, the likes of Times Square or even the Chrysler Building are not too far behind. They're all must-sees, even if it's just once in your life.
What to Do in Midtown Manhattan, New York City
There's so much to do in Midtown Manhattan that you probably don't know where to begin. As proven by the extensive list of famous landmarks here, you can go sightseeing as a start, even if it's to get it over and done with. Don't forget to go museum-hopping while you're at it. Midtown Manhattan has some of the most beloved
museums in New York City, namely the Museum of Modern Art, the Museum of Arts & Design, the Morgan Library & Museum, and even Madame Tussauds New York. Finally, you can also go shopping here, especially since the area boasts the most
luxurious American retailers. They include Saks Fifth Avenue, Bergdorf Goodman, Macy's Department Store, and more.
The Best Restaurants in Midtown Manhattan, New York City
To say that Midtown Manhattan has some of the Big Apple's best eateries is an understatement. Not only does it boast some of the most upscale bistros and trendiest bars, but it even has some of
New York's best Michelin-starred restaurants. These are the kinds of hotspots where you'll want to take your clients out on a business lunch to seal the deal. Or your spouse for a special wedding anniversary. Though most of them are expensive, they're undoubtedly worth every penny. The Consulate Midtown on W 56th Street, for example, is a French-inspired brasserie that's perfect for happy hour and a holiday feast. What's not to love?
Midtown Manhattan has some of the best places to eat in the city, including:
- 53 on W 53rd Street
- Carmine's - Times Square on W 44th Street
- La Bernandin on W 51st Street
- La Pecora Bianca Bryant Park on W 40th Street
- Mitr Thai Restaurant on W 46th Street
- Ocean Prime on W 52nd Street
- STK Steakhouse on 6th Avenue
- The Consulate Midtown on W 56th Street
- The Modern on W 53rd Street
- VALERIE on W 45th Street
What to Know About Renting in Midtown Manhattan, New York City
When New Yorkers say that Midtown Manhattan is an expensive neighborhood, they're not kidding! The neighborhood is only second to the Upper East Side, which is notoriously affluent. Even renting here will drain your bank account if you're not careful. The average rent in Midtown Manhattan ranges from $5,000.00 to $9,000.00 per month. And if that's not enough, $5,000.00 alone will only get you a studio apartment that's possibly smaller than 40 square meters. Though the real estate here comprises some of
New York City's most luxurious apartments to rent, these are still prices that not everyone could afford.
Midtown Manhattan truly embodies what the Big Apple is all about. From its tallest skyscrapers to its bustling streets, this is the quintessential neighborhood of New York City. It’s the “most New York” of all the city districts.
