Chinatown in Manhattan
The Chinatown located in Lower Manhattan is one of several Chinatowns in New York. The city is home to nine different Chinatown neighborhoods as well as three more in the metro area. With roughly 100,000 residents in an area of less than one square mile, the Lower Manhattan version is among the largest and most iconic ones.
Known for its bustling boutiques and good eats, Chinatown is a popular destination for tourists and locals. The neighborhood maintains a distinct Shanghai flair that brings together the best of both East and West. If you are in the area, here a couple of things you need to experience in the neighborhood.
Things to Do in Chinatown
Museum of Chinese in America
Located inside a 19th-century schoolhouse, the Museum of Chinese in America is dedicated to preserving the history, heritage, and culture of Chinese-Americans. Since opening in 1980, the museum has been a national archive that encapsulates all aspects of the Chinese-American experience. Visitors can learn about how Chinese immigrants have contributed to the growth and success of the country, as well as hardships like the Chinese Exclusion Act of 1882.
Smithsonian Magazine once described the museum as "a cultural rescue mission to save a little-known immigrant heritage." From its humble origins, the museum now has more than 65,000 artifacts on display, including pictures, art, and memorabilia. The wide-ranging exhibition is an enlightening experience whether you visit for academic, professional, or personal reasons.
Columbus Park
Named after Christopher Columbus in 1911, Columbus Park is only the most recent title for this Lower Manhattan getaway. The park has also gone by the names Mulberry Bend Park, Five Points Park, and Paradise Park. Today, it is a popular gathering spot for people in the community.
Columbus Park was one of New York's first major urban parks. People regularly come to play everything from basketball to mahjong. The dynamic center has undergone many changes with recent additions, including new plants and play equipment.
Jing Fong
When you want to eat dim sum, Jing Fong is the place to go. Located between Canal and Bayard Street, the expansive banquet hall has more than 100 dishes on its menu. That includes everything from steamed pork buns to streams of rice noodles dressed with shrimp, pork, or beef in tangy soy sauce.
If you have never had dim sum, brace your stomach for a feast. The endless array of small plates means you can try as many different dishes as you want without breaking the bank. The menu is equal parts delectable and extensive, but make sure to go early to beat the large lunchtime crowds.
Canal Street
New York City is a modern mecca for fashion lovers. While the city is rife with kitschy boutiques and the hottest trends, Canal Street offers a new and refreshing experience. The open-air market has vendors who provide a little bit of everything.
Of course, you should be aware that among these bustling storefronts are countless vendors looking to sell knockoffs of your favorite designer goods. That includes brands like Louis Vuitton, Gucci, Prada, Chanel, and Coach. Visitors can also find bootleg DVDs, sunglasses, beauty products, souvenirs, and even home décor at bargain prices.
Conclusion
People looking for an authentic Chinatown in NYC should look no further than Lower Manhattan. The colorful and lively atmosphere makes it a hub for activities at all hours. Whether you want to enjoy world-class dim sum or shopping amidst the open-air stalls, Chinatown has you covered.
Chinatown is also home to other attractions, like the Mahayana Buddhist Temple, the Kimlau Memorial Arch, and a host of other attractions. The point is that there is more than enough to do here to spend an entire weekend, never mind just one day. So, what are you waiting for? Start exploring today.
Getting to TheLiquorStore.com from Chinatown