NYC Travel Diaries: 10 Things To Do in Soho

When in Soho, do as the New Yorkers do! Or better yet, get the best out of New York in the least amount of time – quite literally the definition of a New York Minute. Could I say New York anymore times within one sentence?

Having visited the state several times, I can proudly say that I’m Soho experienced – it’s easily my favourite part of the city. In case you’re planning a trip anytime soon, here are my favourite and highly recommended things to do while in Soho.

Admire the beautiful architecture.

Chicago is known for its beautiful buildings and rich history of architecture, but Soho has something of an old world charm thanks to all of the fire escapes and crown moldings found on the buildings.

Shop to your heart’s content.

Besides 5th Ave., Soho has some of the best retailers. Sure you could pick up that super soft Acne scarf from Nordstrom, but there’s something significantly more satisfying about walking out of Acne with a pink bag in tow.

Take a walk along the cobblestones.

How many downtown cores do you know of, that still have their original cobblestone roads? The answer is not that many. I don’t know what it is, but whenever I explore the cobblestone streets of Soho, I feel as if I’m being transported back in time – even though all of the buildings surrounding me completely display a modern aesthetic, and there are cars all around me as well.

Line up at 7 AM for cronuts.

Because why not? I don’t know about you, but when I’m on vacation, I’m willing to do basically anything. The thought of not being able to come back and visit the destination again in the near future gives me more incentive to do outrageous things when I’m on a trip – such as waking up at the crack of dawn to line up and eat a limited edition cronut. Yep, we did it. And I don’t regret a single moment of it.

Grab brunch in the cutest little nooks.

The name of this restaurant speaks for itself. NYC has some of the cutest little brunch spots and cafes. Is it sad that I could probably spend the entire day eating and drinking coffee? If you get the chance to visit Egg Shop, make sure to hit up Cafe Integral right next door!

Warm up the soul with a matcha latte.

There’s nothing more beautiful than well done latte art – except for matcha latte art. If you’re a matcha enthusiast, you have to take the time to pop into Chalait during your visit to Soho. It’s not exactly in Soho, but close enough that you’d be able to walk over and indulge yourself in a hot drink.

Then grab an actual coffee and relax in a hidden oasis.

Greecologies is one of my favourite cafes in Soho. Not just for their well made coffees, but for the adorable back patio that lets you escape from the craziness that is New York. The back patio is a little hidden gem that’s perfect for sneaking away on a busy day and regaining a sense of calm. For me, it’s a nice break from a hectic day of shopping and exploring the city.

Slip into a wonderland.

I’ve never actually stayed there yet, but the Nomo Soho Hotel has the most beautiful green tunnel that I can’t help but visit everytime I’m in the area. If you’re in search of the perfect place for an Instagram photo, I highly recommend that you drop by and snap one. Just be careful, the hotel security are on high alert for non-guests and may ask you to leave before you get the chance to take a photo!

Indulge in delicious vegan food.

You’ve probably already seen it on every single NYC bloggers’ Instagram feed, but there’s a well deserved reason why. by CHLOE. has the most delicious vegan pancakes of life. I’ve had protein pancakes in the past that taste like rubbish, and these vegan carrot pancakes are the complete opposite. I can’t speak any higher about the fluffiness of them and would gladly trade in coffee to eat these for the rest of my life.

Get a room with a view.

There are so many beautiful hotels to stay in, but my favourite to date has to be Arlo Hudson Square. To me, the view and skyline is what makes New York, New York. The beds in each and every single room at Arlo are situated right next to a window – sort of like a day bed, and the positioning offers beautiful and non-obstructive views of the city. Compared to other hotels with beds in the middle of a wall, sleeping right next to the window at Arlo has a whole different perspective that makes you feel as if you’re floating in the middle of the city.

Plus it’s also a 10 minute walk into Soho, so you can easily access all of the previously mentioned places but then hide-away in the evening from all the hustle and bustle. It’s quite literally the best of both worlds!