You might not have heard of Turtle Bay in
New York City, but you've definitely seen it before! This lively, bustling district along the eastern side of Midtown Manhattan boasts the city's iconic skyline, glistening skyscrapers that prove the city's ultimate power and influence. No less than the world-famous Empire State Building and the Chrysler Building stand here, symbols of New York's modern-day omnipresence. Yes, for all its popular imagery, Turtle Bay itself is not nearly as recognizable a name as SoHo, Chelsea, Greenwich Village, Wall Street, and the like. Let's change that by delving deeper into this fascinating neighborhood.
Where is Turtle Bay in New York City?
Another name for Turtle Bay is Midtown East, which should already tell you everything you need to know about its location. Starting from Lexington Avenue to its west and the East River already to its east, Turtle Bay lies at the easternmost edge of the middle part of Manhattan. It's also situated between East 43rd and East 53rd Streets, which means it's a fairly big
neighborhood in New York City. Size-wise, the area is not too far from the Times Square district, which makes sense considering it has many big buildings and skyscrapers, too.
Is it Safe in Turtle Bay, New York City?
The most ironic thing about Turtle Bay is that it looks like a sprawling metropolis, but it's actually a peaceful and generally safe neighborhood. It even ranks among the safest parts of the city, right up there with the likes of the Upper East Side, Greenwich Village, and more. Even when
New York City's crime rates skew high, you won't feel it in Turtle Bay. The place still gets rowdy now and then, but it never gets so crowded that it's a point of concern. Just take the necessary safety precautions when you go out, especially at night, and you're good to go!
What's The Vibe in Turtle Bay, New York City?
Part of what makes Turtle Bay so unique is that it maintains a nice balance between a vibrant urban area and a relaxed residential area. Two opposing vibes, practically at both ends of the spectrum, converge in this notable neighborhood in New York City. The skyscrapers nearby stand as reminders that you're still in the Big Apple, even when you're tucked away in Turtle Bay's quieter corners. Staying in the district places you near many cool hotspots, from trendy restaurants to chic shops, and more. Anyone
moving to New York City will want to live here!
Is it Expensive in Turtle Bay, New York City?
Yes, it is.
New York City's living costs are generally high, but things are particularly pricey in Turtle Bay. The average rent here is nearly $5,000.00 per month, for instance, which is the same average rent in famously affluent areas like SoHo, Chelsea, Greenwich Village, and the Upper East Side. That alone should already tell you just how expensive it is to stay in Turtle Bay! If you need more proof, try eating out in the area. You'll find that you'll usually spend about $30.00 to $60.00 per meal in Turtle Bay's mid-range restaurants.
What to See in Turtle Bay, New York City
As mentioned in the intro, there's a good chance you've already seen Turtle Bay even though this is the first time you're hearing (or reading) about it. How is this possible, you ask? Well, Turtle Bay features some of New York City's most iconic buildings. No less than the Empire State Building and the Chrysler Building proudly stand in the area, looking over the rest of Manhattan in all their steel glory. Grand Central Station is not too far, though it's technically in Midtown Manhattan instead of Turtle Bay itself.
What to Do in Turtle Bay, New York City
Turtle Bay gives you the best of both worlds—an urban oasis featuring famous skyscrapers and a relatively peaceful neighborhood tucked away in the easternmost edge of Manhattan—so you should take advantage of all that. Visit the district's iconic landmarks on your free day and remind yourself that you're in one of the most famous cities in the world. You can also dine in the area's best eateries afterward, indulging in haute cuisine with every dish. And if you prefer some alone time, it's easy enough to escape to hidden spots like the Katherine Hepburn Garden and forget the rest of the world.
The Best Restaurants in Turtle Bay, New York City
Speaking of Turtle Bay's restaurant scene, it's just as exceptional as those in SoHo, Chelsea, Midtown Manhattan, and New York's many other foodie havens. 2nd Avenue alone is already lined with the likes of Turtle Bay Tavern, Norma Turtle Bay, La Pecora Bianca Midtown, Crave Fishbar, and The Smith, among many others. These are world-class hotspots that can rival any of
New York City's best Michelin-starred restaurants. Turtle Bay Tavern, for instance, has made a name for itself by pairing classic American comfort food with cocktails. Martinis with Eggs Benedict, anyone?
Dine in any or all of Turtle Bay’s most exceptional eateries, most notably:
- Turtle Bay Tavern on 2nd Avenue
- Norma Turtle Bay on 2nd Avenue
- La Pecora Bianca Midtown on 2nd Avenue
- Crave Fishbar on 2nd Avenue
- The Smith on 2nd Avenue
- OBAO Midtown on E 53rd Street
- Toscana 49 on E 49th Street
- 7th Street Burger on E 49th Street
- Aragvi on E 44th Street
- Osteria Laguna on E 42nd Street
What to Know About Renting in Turtle Bay, New York City
Let's go back to talking about rent in Turtle Bay. As already mentioned, it will cost you a lot to rent in this underrated but affluent neighborhood.
Renting a luxury apartment in New York City is generally expensive, but it's especially pricey in this district. For example, $3,510.00 to $5,835.00 per month will only get a one-bedroom rental in the area. If you prefer a three-bedroom home, expect to pay about $6,000.00 to $7,400.00 per month! For further context, such prices usually apply to full-blown townhouses in the other boroughs.
You might not know its name, but you’ve undoubtedly seen Turtle Bay in New York City before! Nestled at the heart of Midtown Manhattan, the district boasts the city’s famous skyline and iconic skyscrapers in all their full chromatic glory.
