The pre-war multi-family townhouse located at 313 East 6th Street has been listed for the first time since the 1970s. While all New York buildings have their stories to tell, this one has seen more than most. Home to multiple famous artists and a documentary director, 313 East 6th Street has survived both raging fire and FBI surveillance units. It now awaits its next chapter and next owners. 

East Village Greek Revival Mansions

Originally constructed in 1853, later renovations reformatted the single-family home into three apartments. In 1902 the residence was officially relabeled a multi-unit dwelling.

The entryway features an original double-wide formal entrance and brownstone stoop. The house contains traditional Greek Revival elements with complimentary Italianate details, similar to other houses on that street. Brick interior walls, tall windows, and original staircases add authentic charm.

A large 30-foot backyard offers a green respite for sun and lounging while high ceilings deliver both northern and southern light to the bedrooms. The home has 6 bedrooms and 6 bathrooms with a total square footage of 5,480 square feet

313 East 6th Street is currently vacant and gutted. The building will require a top-to-bottom build-out. Future owners will have the rare opportunity to design and build the home, or apartments, of their dreams. This and other row houses on 6th Street received landmark status in 2012 when added to the East Village/Lower East Side Historic District. 

A 1948 Certificate of Occupancy states a “social club” was once located in the basement. Most recently, the bottom floor was kept as an art studio. A fire in 2022 partially damaged the upper quarters, but ensuing repairs verify the home is structurally safe and sound. Aside from architectural charm, the building was home to many famous voices of New York City’s past.

Mark Rothko’s Painting Stint in the 1930s

The late abstract artist Mark Rothko (born Markus Rothkowitz) and his first wife, Edith Sachar, occupied an apartment here in the late 1930s. During those years, Rothko was a part-time teacher at the Center Academy of the Brooklyn Jewish Center. He taught children from 1929 to 1952. Edith and he lived in many parts of the East Village until his wife’s pressure for him to become famous eventually drove them to separate.

A well-known painting of his titled “Thru the Window” was painted in this apartment. Both the artist’s signature and building address are written on the back of the painting.  

Rothko was propelled to fame in the 1940s and cemented himself as both an abstract painter and surrealist. Rothko was contemporaries with other famed artists such as Max Weber, Jackson Pollock, Willem de Kooning, and Franz Kline. Famous for monolithic works of color study, a Rothko original titled “No. 6 (Violet, Green and Red)” sold at Christie’s for $186 million in 2014, the 5th most expensive painting sale in history.

Abstract Expressionist Alfred Leslie at 313 East 6th

Painter and filmmaker Alfred Leslie, of the Bronx, also had a stint at 313 East 6th Street. As second artist in residence, Leslie utilized the garden level for his Manhattan studio.

Famous for macro-sized portraiture and an extensive series of watercolors, Leslie documented his road trips through original artworks.  Through his many iterations as an artist, Leslie was also a filmmaker; combining cartoons, home movies and old feature films. The 1959 film Pull My Daisy was directed by Alfred Leslie and narrated by Jack Kerouac. Other film collaborations included poet Frank O’Hara. He later got into sculptures made of found and everyday objects.

In the 1960s Leslie segued from abstract expressionism to realistic figurative pieces. Losing much of his work in a fire, Leslie later gained fame for his large-scale charcoal drawings. Alfred Leslie passed away from COVID-19 in 2023.

Documentary Maker’s Home

The last shift in ownership came in the 1970s when 313 East 6th Street was purchased by director Emile de Antonio and his wife. Still under ownership of the Antonio family, it was a surprise to some when this property was listed on the market.

Emile de Antonio, like Rothko and Leslie, also led a prolific creative and political career in New York City. Directing and producing documentary films on social, political and counterculture events, de Antonio has been called “the most important political filmmaker in the United States during the Cold War.” 

Amongst famous works including Painters Painting, released in 1972, de Antonio was in charge of distribution for Pull My Daisy, the film directed by Alfred Leslie. His film In the Year of the Pig was Oscar nominated in 1969. De Antonio is known to critique American culture and politics with an emphasis on political dissension. Because of this de Antonio was under constant surveillance by the FBI under J. Edgar Hoover. A 10,000 page dossier compiled regarding De Antonio became subject of his autobiographical film, Mr. Hoover and I.

Then and Now

Of course, times have changed. Located smack in the middle of Ukrainian Village, 313 East 6th Street is now in a bustling part of East Village, close to Whole Foods and Tompkins Square Park. Still, how many who wander by know Rothko used to look out those windows?

The post Rothko’s Historical Former East Village Apartment For Sale appeared first on CitySignal.

Welcome to the East Village, the neighborhood full of great bars and rock & roll. When people think of the East Village, they think of loud dive bars with live music. While that is a major part of the neighborhood, the area also has a ton of great restaurants, shopping, and entertainment venues. Once a place of counterculture and bohemia, this neighborhood’s culture has become much more family-friendly while continuing to celebrate its history.

History of the East Village

During most of the East Village’s early NYC history, the land was used mostly for farming and estates that belonged to some of the city’s richest citizens like the Stuyvesant and Rutgers families. These farms, while wildly successful, were later surveyed for the future grid system of the expanding city. Land was sold to developers and city elites, who transformed the farmland into one of the wealthiest neighborhoods in the city during the early 1800s.

Row and federal houses lined the streets during the early 1800s. However, as the city expanded north, wealthy New Yorkers followed the growth, and German, Irish, and Austrian immigrants began to move into the East Village. The neighborhood’s population exploded, and the city’s solution was tenement housing. As more housing was built, more people came to the city, and the neighborhood quickly became a melting pot of cultures.

The East Village remained a working-class haven for immigrants until the 1930s when the depression hit and displaced thousands of people. Many of the tenements became abandoned and were demolished, and larger apartment complexes began construction in the 1960s. It was at this time that artists began moving to the neighborhood in search of cheap rent and a community to call their own. 

These artists formed a sort of counterculture in the neighborhood, and even take credit for creating several music genres like punk rock. The neighborhood also became home to several theaters, LGTBQ+ friendly bars, and hosted some of the most prominent musicians inside their institutions. However, the popularity of the neighborhood renewed interest in it, and the area gentrified quickly after the 1990s. Today, the area is still full of music and art, while also being home to luxury buildings and family-friendly establishments.

Shopping in the East Village

The East Village has some fascinating shopping opportunities if you know where to look. Some of the best shopping opportunities here include:

L Train Vintage

This vintage clothing store is right off the 1st Avenue L train station, and is full of unique clothes and styles. Since 1999, this store has been selling and receiving quality goods, giving the neighborhood some extra flair and attitude.

Mast Books

This bookstore embodies the attitude and counterculture of the East Village, selling books that have gone out of print along with rarer materials that are difficult to find. There are contemporary titles here, but the real treasures are the older books.

Stranded Records

This East Village staple sells records new and old, and is more than happy to receive donations, especially of rare material. This shop has a huge inventory, and its knowledgeable staff can always suggest something new.

Theater and Entertainment Venues in the East Village

The East Village is full of places to catch a show. Some of the best entertainment venues in the neighborhood include:

Bowery Electric

This live music venue doubles as a nightclub, and is always packed to the rafters on the weekends. Hosting some of the most popular indie bands and artists around, this place is definitely worth a visit.

Nuyorican Poets Cafe

This cafe and performance space has been around since 1973. Home to spoken word, music, and comedy nights, this space is a go-to for many artists in the city, and is where many artists got their big breaks.

La Mama

This experimental theater is extremely popular, and produces some of the most daring works in the city. These eclectic shows have left audiences in awe since 1961, and have built an incredibly diverse community of artists.

Where to Eat in the East Village

 

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The East Village is full of great food, where people eat and drink before they catch a show. Some of the best restaurants in the neighborhood include:

Baar Baar ($$$)

This Indian restaurant is one of the best in the city. With special holiday menus and delicious drinks, this establishment is perfect for dates and big events. Some favorites here include the paneer pinwheel and the chicken biriyani.

Pardon My French ($$$)

This French bistro is popular with the brunch crowd, as their specialty cocktails and comfort foods draw large crowds on the weekends. Some of their best selections include Brioche French toast and sandwich jambon-fromage.

Boka ($$)

This lowkey Korean establishment serves some of the best wings in the city. Beautiful, yet subtle, this place attracts customers from all over the city with its fried food and Korean classics.

Bars of the East Village

 

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The East Village is home to a ton of bars. Some of the best nightlife in the neighborhood includes:

Otto’s Shrunken Head ($)

This tiki bar/performance venue hosts live and comedy on a nightly basis. The drinks here are strong and plentiful, and the folks who work here are welcoming of everyone at any time. This is truly a unique place.

Keybar ($)

Claiming to have the best happy hour in NYC, this bar is party central for a lot of folks. People often come here for birthdays and holidays for the cheap drinks and friendly atmosphere. The DJ lounge is also a big draw.

Soda Club ($$)

This bar has a lot going on. Serving up delicious vegan Italian food alongside some of the best wine in the world, this establishment has gained attention from several prestigious institutions, including Michelin.

Juke Bar ($$)

This popular bar loves to host events, and has trivia nights, comedy nights, and live music every weekend. They serve up some bar food classics with elevated flavors, and their seasonal drinks are sure to cool you in the summer, and warm your soul in the winter.

Please Don’t Tell ($$$)

This cocktail bar has a speakeasy feel to it, and is the go-to for folks seeking to go wild and feel classy at the same time. Though a bit hard to find, this place is worth the effort, as they have some of the best drinks and atmosphere in the city.

Where to Live in the East Village

The East Village is an extremely popular area with newer buildings and historical gems. Some of the best places to live include:

The Avant

This newer condo has a lot to offer residents, including a fitness center, rooftop terrace, and private outdoor space select units. The spa-like bathrooms here are a huge plus, and kitchens come with beautiful stainless steel appliances.

202 East 13th Street

This rental building has been around since 1920, but has recently been renovated to meet modern living standards. Gorgeous hardwood flooring and exposed brick give these homes style, making them very trendy options for potential renters.

118 East 1st Street

This unique condo has four units spread out over nine floors, which means that the homes here are all duplexes. Each home comes with a private outdoor space, enormous living rooms and kitchens, and private elevator entrances.

Tompkins Square Plaza

This rental building has been around since 1998, and has over 70 beautiful homes. The roof deck provides residents with some of the best views in the city, and the fitness center has great equipment.

La Botanica

This new condo has five luxury units, each one taking up a floor of the building. With private elevator access, a private outdoor space, and huge windows, these apartments are bright and comfortable, perfect for small families or young professionals.

Traveling in the East Village

The East Village has some interesting travel options and is fairly easy to navigate. Some of the best ways to get around here include:

Trains

The New York City subway system provides access to the north and south end of the East Village. The 1st and 3rd Avenue L train stops service the upper part of the neighborhood while the lower portion is serviced by the F train. The Union Square 4, 5, 6, N, Q, R, and W trains can get you close to the neighborhood too.

Buses

There are a number of bus lines that service the East Village including the M1, M2, M3, M8, M9, M14A, M14D, M15, M21, M101, M102, and M103 among others.

Rideshares and Bike Rentals

Traffic can get a bit annoying in the East Village, but it’s not as bad as other Manhattan neighborhoods, which is why driving and rideshares are extremely popular here. That said, biking is also a major mode of transportation in this neighborhood, and a swath of Citi Bike docking stations makes it that much more convenient. The neighborhood is also extremely walkable, full of hidden gems one can only find if they take their time traversing these busy streets.

The East Village is a neighborhood that has been both an elite area and a haven for the working class. The area is famous for the music and entertainment that sprouted during the 1960s and 70s, but that’s not the full story of this old neighborhood. The East Village is an ever-changing part of NYC that will embrace the future while celebrating its illustrious past. 

The post East Village NYC Neighborhood Guide: The Rebellious and Artistic Neighborhood appeared first on CitySignal.

Best Concert Venues in Manhattan

Radio City Music Hall

 

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Location: 1260 6th Ave, New York, NY 10020

This classic venue is famous for a reason. Part of the Madison Square Garden entertainment family, this concert hall hosts some of the biggest shows in NYC. Their annual show, The Radio City Rockettes, brings in tourists worldwide, and the theater hosts everything from music to comedy. Usually considered a music venue, this place celebrates all things artistic and is one of the best places to go in Midtown. Concerts usually sell out fast, so it’s wise to pay attention to their calendar of events.

Webster Hall

 

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Location: 125 E 11th St, New York, NY 10003

Originally opened in 1886, Webster Hall is one of the coolest places in Union Square and easily one of the best concert venues in the city. Hosting a huge amount of concerts annually, this venue also turns into a nightclub, hosting special themed raves meant to make your inner child smile while your outer adult dances the night away. These raves even have costume contests and karaoke every once in a while. This music venue is special because it lets the audience feel more involved and has even built its own community of entertainment lovers. This place has kept the party going for over 100 years.

Bowery Ballroom

 

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Location: 6 Delancey St, New York, NY 10002

This music venue is a bit smaller, which means it’s a bit more of an intimate setting. Part of the Mercury East family, which also runs Mercury Ballroom, Irving Plaza, and the Gramercy Theater, Bowery Ballroom is in the heart of the Bowery, and hosts many indie bands while selling extremely affordable tickets for their shows. This venue is perfect for catching talent that has gone undiscovered by the top 40 charts. The bands are so close, it’s like you’re part of the performance. It’s a fun experience that won’t make your wallet hurt.

Best Concert Venues in Brooklyn

Kings Theater

Location: 1027 Flatbush Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11226

Originally opened as a movie theater in 1929, this landmarked venue has made a stunning comeback. Closing in 1977 and reopening in 2015, this venue has pivoted from film to music, dance, and comedy. This venue offers all kinds of performances, from world tours from major artists to their annual showing of the Nutcracker. They even host family-friendly shows regularly, piquing the interest of young artistic minds, and ensuring that this theater will never again have to shut its doors. This Flatbush gem is beautiful and will be around for a long time.

The Bell House

Location: 149 7th St, Brooklyn, NY 11215

This medium-sized venue is the place to go on a Friday night in Park Slope. This establishment is a music venue, comedy club, and nightclub all wrapped up into one fun package near the water. Their nightclubs are themed raves, with mixes of music from popular artists. Their comedy nights are some of the best in the city, and frequently feature big names like Roy Wood Jr. and Mary Beth Barone. Tickets for concert events are usually under $30, while their club nights are usually free, so the fun is also very affordable.

Lena Horne Bandshell

Location: 141 Prospect Park West, Brooklyn, NY 11215

Named for dancer and Brooklyn native Lena Horne, this outdoor concert venue is the place for summer events. Located in Prospect Park, this bandshell has been a venue for some of the best bands, comedies, and theater since 1941. Known primarily as a music venue, this is easily one of the most popular places to catch the New York Summer Concert Series, a festival of free outdoor concerts organized by the city. Because this venue is outdoors, they also have concessions, meaning you can snack while you rock out under a full moon.

Best Concert Venues in Queens

Forest Hills Stadium

 

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Location: 1 Tennis Pl, Forest Hills, NY 11375

This outdoor concert venue has been part of Queen since 1923 and is the largest outdoor music stadium in the city. Capable of holding over 13,000, this venue was originally designed to host the US Open, but the space was too good to pass up a setting for some major music events. Everyone from The Rolling Stones to Ed Sheeran has played at this venue, and recent renovations have added new suite options modeled after speakeasies. This venue is huge, fun, and an experience you don’t want to miss.

Melrose Ballroom

 

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Location: 3608 33rd St, Queens, NY 11106

A smaller, more intimate space, Melrose Ballroom has hosted some of the best musicians in the entire world. When we say this venue is more intimate, we should say each level of this place is more intimate, as the various levels can be combined or separated to hold multiple events simultaneously. Greats like Rihanna and Steven Tyler have performed here, and it’s easy to see why with the level of service provided. This venue has a rooftop deck, a separate bar, and even VIP seating in the mezzanine. This place is a party in the heart of Astoria.

Knockdown Center

 

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Location: 52-19 Flushing Ave, Queens, NY 11378

Located in the neighborhood of Maspeth, this place doesn’t consider itself a concert or music venue but an artistic experience instead. Located in a former factory, this space is huge, hosting concerts indoors and outdoors depending on the event and the weather. Events here are wild, with a ton of dancing, things to drink, and good times to be had. There are no sad faces in this venue, unless a band or performance is trying to convey some sense of sadness in their work. This place is a rare find in a great borough.

Best Concert Venues in The Bronx

Lehman Center for the Performing Arts

 

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Location: 250 Bedford Park Blvd W, The Bronx, NY 10468

Focusing mostly on dance and theater, this venue is a great place to spend a more classy evening. Partnering with major events like the Westchester Nutcracker, Jazz at Lincoln Center, and CUNY events, this place puts on many shows celebrating diversity and all things performance art, both past and present. This is one of the most culturally rich experiences in the city, and the events done here are some of the most moving performances you’ll ever see. Even better, it’s affordable.

Crotona Park Amphitheater

Location: 559 Claremont Pkwy, The Bronx, NY 10457

This theater/bandshell is one of the most popular places in The Bronx during the Summer Concert Series. The music and dance that happen here come from some of the best artists working today. Located in beautiful Crotona Park, this venue is huge and hosts regular events in the warmer months, making it a popular destination for music lovers who need to let loose. The park is easy to get to, but the theater fills up quickly, so it’s important to arrive early to any concert you and your friends are hoping to attend.

Best Concert Venue in Staten Island

St. George Theater

Location: 35 Hyatt St, Staten Island, NY 10301

This Staten Island concert venue is absolutely gorgeous, and has been around since 1929.  Dedicated to fighting pediatric cancer, this venue hosts a variety of concerts, theater, and educational performances every year, and even hosts camps and after school programs for children interested in pursuing the arts. This venue has a long history of excellence, and its architecture rivals even the grandest Broadway theater. It’s astounding that in this venue, countless performances have been produced, entertaining all of NYC and beyond. Shows here sell out fast, so be sure to keep up with their calendar. 

Concert venues in New York are special places where dreams come true. That might seem like hyperbole, but ask any fan of Ed Sheeran how they felt seeing him live. People go crazy for the bands and comedians they love. The right concert venues make seeing them an extra special experience. Everything from the lighting, acoustics, to the neighborhood can make an event a truly unique experience. The venues listed above know this, which is why they are here. They know what it takes to make a concert, comedy show, or theatrical production stand out from the crowd. Seeing a show at one of these concert venues is an experience you’ll never forget. 

The post The 13 Best Music Venues in NYC appeared first on CitySignal.

Trains in Moynihan Train Hall

First and foremost, Moynihan Train Hall is a train hall. This means that you can catch a train that will take you almost anywhere in the US. The trains available at Moynihan Station are:

Amtrak

Amtrak is one of the most extensive train lines in the entire country. Most Amtrak Trains leaving Moynihan Station will take you up or down the east coast, but there are some trains that will take you west as well. Amtrak trains can connect you to other train lines, and some even have sleeping cars so you can spend days on a cross-country adventure. Amtrak is easily the most popular transportation service in Moynihan.

LIRR

The Long Island Railroad makes several stops in the city and is super helpful if traveling to The Hamptons or Montauk. The LIRR might not be as extensive as Amtrak, but it’s a great way to get out of the city for a weekend while still being close by.

The Subway

Moynihan is attached to Penn Station and thus has access to many of the subways that service the city. The trains accessible via Moynihan are the 1, 2, 3, A, B, and C trains, which then connect to other subway lines, making the entire city accessible.

Food in Moynihan Train Hall

 

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There is a ton of food to be found in Moynihan. Some places are restaurants, others are stands, but many come from some of the best eateries in the city. Moynihan Food Hall has a little bit of everything, including:

Alidoro

Specializing in Italian sandwiches, Alidoro uses the freshest ingredients to make hot and cold eats for you to enjoy. You can choose from a number of classic sandwiches on their menu or build your own using any of their delicious ingredients. They even have breakfast sandwiches for those taking early morning trips.

Birch Coffee

A very popular coffee brand, Birch has some of the best coffee around, and you can get it in various styles at their stand in Moynihan. The stand also sells bags of their coffee in ground and whole bean form, so you can make sure you have fresh coffee no matter where your journey takes you.

Burger Joint

Easily one of the best burgers in the city, Burger Joint has classic cheeseburgers, Beyond burgers, milkshakes, and breakfast sandwiches. They even serve beer and wine so that you can start your trip on a high note. These burgers are huge and greasy, just as a burger should be, and it’s an extremely affordable and portable meal.

Davey’s Ice Cream

Not quite hungry for a meal? Get a frozen treat instead! Davey’s Ice Cream has a ton of homemade flavors, from vanilla to Nutella chocolate chip. You can get a cone, a cup, or a pint of ice cream to take with you, and the prices are very good. If you want to start your trip with a bit of sweetness, this is the place to stop.

Jacob’s Pickles

A new addition to the Moynihan Food Hall, Jacob’s Pickles is one of the most popular restaurants in the city. Their sandwiches are out of this world, as are their biscuits and beer. Their menu in the Train Hall features some fan favorites and is a great way to introduce people to amazing NYC cuisine.

E.A.K. Ramen

Ramen is a great comfort food, and E.A.K has some of the best in town. The ingredients are fresh, the flavors are powerful, and the ramen will fill your heart with warmth just before you hop on a train. This place is extremely popular, so it pays to show up early, so you don’t have to wait in a long line.

Sauce Pizzeria

Sometimes you just need a good ole New York slice of pizza, and Sauce can provide that. Whether it’s a classic cheese or a vodka slice, this place serves what ales you. Sauce also serves a variety of salads and even sells a special brand of sodas called “Boylan’s.” Take some to go so you can enjoy the taste of NYC anywhere.

CHOPT

If you’re looking for a slightly healthier option, CHOPT is the place to go. They have a ton of special salads, healthy beverages, and even specialty salad dressing that pair with individual salads. CHOPT salads are huge and filling, so it can easily be an entire meal and hold you over for a while when you’re traveling.

Magnolia Bakery

Famous for their cupcakes which are always lavishly decorated, Magnolia Bakery is a sweet treat for any occasion, including traveling on a train. Cupcakes aren’t their only specialty. They also have brownies, ice cream, and their famous banana pudding. Magnolia Bakery is an NYC staple, and most of their stuff is easy to travel with.

H & H Bagels

Considered, by many, to be the best bagel in the city, H & H Bagels are a favorite amongst locals and visitors alike. With a ton of variety and fillings, H & H Bagels can be great for a snack or for an entire meal. Extremely portable and affordable, these bagels are perfect for travel, which is why this stand is extremely popular.

The Bar

One of Moynihan’s own creations, the bar is a vast venue right in the middle of the food hall. Known as a place to relax and socialize before your trip, the bar is a great place to grab a drink and watch a sporting event. They have a full beer, wine, and cocktail menu and are designed to resemble a classy establishment that visitors can expect to find around the city.

Shopping in Moynihan Train Hall

 

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While the food hall is definitely on the larger end when it comes to attractions in Moynihan, there are a number of shops that will help you pass the time. Perhaps you’ll even find a gift for someone meeting you after a long journey. Some of the best shopping experiences in Moynihan are:

Damselfly Flowers

Nothing is better after a long train ride than being greeted by a loved one holding a beautiful bouquet. Damselfly Flowers in Moynihan can make that dream a reality, even if you thought of this idea at the last minute. They have gorgeous bouquets arranged by expert artists, and they even sell vases and flower food in the store. So get those brownie points today!

Lovepop Cards

Now that you have flowers, you should have a card to go with them. Lovepop has cards for just about any happy or sad occasion you can think of, and are always open to those who forgot to get a card for their trip. They have cards that range from funny to sincere, but the one certain thing is that these cards will always be appreciated.

Gotham News

This news stand and convenience store are a perfect addition to the Moynihan Train Hall. They sell a variety of newspapers, magazines, snacks, and beverages. They even have basic electric devices like headphones and chargers in case you forgot any. Though this store might not be a lavish shopping experience, it’s worth checking out, especially if you’re the forgetful type.

Art in Moynihan Train Hall

 

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Yes, it might surprise you that Moynihan Train Hall has a ton of art. Some of this art is just for decoration, but many of these pieces are artistic installations requested by the city. Some of the coolest art in Moynihan includes:

Stan Douglas, From Penn Station’s Half Century

This art installation features nine images showcasing moments from the original Penn Station’s history. These historical moments were recreated with actors, period clothing, and even models of the original train hall. Showcasing period of history from 1914, when a group of vaudeville performers was stranded in the station during a snowstorm, to 1957, when the train hall installed its first electric ticking and service bureau.

Elmgreen & Dragset, The Hive

If you enter the Train Hall from the 31st Street entrance, you’ll be lucky enough to catch The Hive, a collection of 1:100 scale model skyscrapers dangling from the ceiling above you. While some of the skyscrapers in this installation come from the artist’s imaginations, most are scale models of giant buildings found in mega cities from all over the world. These cities include London, Hong Kong, and even New York City. It’s a dazzling display that graces the entrance of this amazing train hall.

Kehinde Wiley, Go

This beautiful work of stained glass can be found at the 33rd Street entrance and is an excellent example of how art can enhance the architecture surrounding it. This hand-painted mural celebrates bodies in motion, whether that motion is via train, plane, or just your own two feet. It seems that the people in these murals are dancing in the sky, celebrating their own grace and beauty as only the individual can. It’s a glorious work that celebrates the human condition and the grace of movement.

Other Services in Moynihan Train Hall

 

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Moynihan Train Hall is a great place to explore. However, if you just want to get on your train and go, there are some other very basic services that the train hall also provides. These services include:

Post Office

Moynihan Train Hall has a dedicated post office on the first floor of the building near the Amtrak Metropolitan Lounge. This is a full-service post office and an excellent resource for business travelers.

Amtrak Metropolitan Lounge

A special perk for Amtrak passengers of a certain status, this lounge is an exclusive, quiet hide away for those who are waiting on their Amtrak train, but don’t want to be disturbed by the rest of the train hall. Contact Amtrak to see how you can get access to the lounge.

Restrooms

Restrooms can be found on both the concourse level and first floor. Both sets have baby changing stations, and both are tucked away from the busier parts of these floors. The bathrooms are regularly cleaned and resupplied, so you should always feel comfortable using them before your trip.

Ticketed Waiting Room

For those who want to wait for their train but don’t want to be in the way, there is a ticket waiting room with monitors that shows when trains are arriving and departing. These waiting rooms are on the concourse level and just across from the food hall should you get hungry.

Customer and Ticketing Services

Both Amtrak and MTA (For the LIRR) customer service are on the concourse level next to the food hall. These booths can help you purchase tickets, change trains, and handle any situation or complaint you have. They can also give you information on baggage claims and train policies.

Moynihan Train Hall is a huge station with a ton to do and see. If you arrive early enough for your train, you can do some shopping, sit down and have a meal, or appreciate the fine art that peppers the station. If none of that sounds appealing, then you’re more than welcome to sit in a waiting room and silently read, listen to music or a podcast. Moynihan is all about comfort before and during travel, and aims to provide customers with a great experience. So if you’re traveling soon, or you just want to eat at the Jacob’s Pickles stand, Moynihan Train Hall is worth looking at.

The post The Ultimate Guide to Moynihan Train Hall in Penn Station appeared first on CitySignal.

Welcome to the West Village, the neighborhood with some of the best nightlife in NYC! When people think of the West Village, they think of smoky rooms and raucous dance floors. These ideas of the neighborhood are pretty correct, but there’s a lot more to the story here. The West Village is full of history, and that history has transformed the neighborhood into an artistic wonderland where people from all walks of life come to express themselves.

History of the West Village

The West Village wasn’t always a beacon of love and art. The neighborhood and the rest of Greenwich Village were home to NYC’s first penitentiary. Newgate Prison was built in 1797 and lasted until 1829, according to Gotham: A History of New York City to 1898 by Edwin G. Burrows and Mike Wallace. The book also states that after the prison closed, the area became a haven for bohemian culture in NYC.

The neighborhood spent the 1800s as a home for avant-garde art and theater and a popular spot for brothels and bars that secretly accepted LGBTQ+ patrons. However, as time passed, the secret came out, and the police regularly raided many bars and clubs that catered to the LGBTQ+ community throughout the 20th century. This eventually led to the Stonewall Riots, a string of protests that occurred after police brutally raided the popular club. This landmark jump-started the Gay Rights Movement, and Stonewall has become a national landmark.

Today, the West Village is still a haven for the LGBTQ+ community and the avant-garde arts, though some college culture has also moved in thanks to NYU being so close. Though times have changed, the locations and importance of the events have largely stayed the same. West Village is proud of its history and still celebrates it.

Art in the West Village

 

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The West Village is full of art venues that showcase theater, paintings, and more. This culture thrives here and is frequented by many people every year. Some of the most famous institutions include:

The Whitney Museum of American Art

The Whitney is a very popular art museum with some of the best art being made in America today. Current exhibits include Edward Hopper’s New York and In the Balance: Between Painting and Sculpture. Exhibitions here change frequently, so there’s always something new.

The Cherry Lane Theater

This Off-Broadway venue is the oldest of its kind in NYC and has been running since 1923. With some of the original productions of Godspell, Nunsense, True West, and The Zoo Story, this theater has a strong history of producing some of the best plays ever written.

IFC Center

This movie theater is small but mighty, playing some of the best indie films today. This theater also hosts special events like festivals, DOC New York, and themed movie weeks. They also have membership deals so that you can receive exclusive offers and tickets to these special events.

Where to Eat in the West Village

 

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The West Village has some of the best food in the city, and the restaurants that serve it attract people from all over the world. Some of the best restaurants include:

Sushi Nakazawa ($$$$)

This omakase experience is one of the most sought after in NYC, and serves guests over 20 pieces of fish and shellfish. This is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and reservations must be made in advance. Your life will change once you eat here.

Via Carota ($$$)

This Italian restaurant has taken inspiration from a 17th-century villa and uses classic recipes to warm the hearts of guests both local and visiting. The chefs of this establishment have been featured in the Michelin Guide, so you know their stuff is good.

Market Table ($$$)

This farm-to-table restaurant serves up some of the freshest food in the West Village and has a menu that changes with the seasonality of ingredients. They even have a private dining room with a full cocktail bar for private events.

Balaboosta ($$$)

This Israeli restaurant has some of the best Yiddish comfort food in the city, and has become so popular that many of the recipes they’ve compiled over the years have been forged into a cookbook available on their website.

Wallsé ($$$)

This Austrian restaurant has a Michelin Star and features some form of the most influential painters of the modern era. This restaurant is essentially a museum and one of the main exhibits here is the delicious food.

Bars of the West Village

 

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The bars of the West Village are famous and considered some of the best nightlife options in NYC. Some of the best bars here include:

Wilfie and Nell ($$)

This Gastropub is a cozy space dedicated to feeding you great food and serving you tasty drinks. The New York Times called this place a “bar for eating and flirting,” making it a go-to for many people on a Friday or Saturday night.

Sogno Toscano Market & Wine Bar ($$)

If you ever wanted a bar in your supermarket, then you’ll love this place. Sogno is not just a wine bar, but an entire Italian market full of fresh meats, cheeses, and vegetables. Get some shopping done and sip on an excellent vino.

Employees Only ($$$)

This bar is fancy personified. This speakeasy is perfect for a first date you’re trying to impress or for a night when you sit at the end of the bar trying to look cool. The specialty cocktails here will leave your jaw on the floor.

LGBTQ+ Establishments of the West Village

 

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The West Village has a ton of LGBTQ+ history and many establishments that have made that history are still here today. Some of the most famous include:

The Stonewall Inn

The location of the Stonewall Riots, this establishment still serves up amazing drinks and an even better atmosphere. This extremely popular bar is full of dancing, music, and some of the best times one can have in the city.

Cubbyhole

Since 1994, Cubbyhole has been serving specialty cocktails for an extremely affordable price. Famous for its jukebox and awesome tunes, this place is a chill spot to relax with friends and make some new ones along the way.

Pieces

The oldest gay bar in the West Village, this place is a go-to spot for drag brunches, karaoke, and live comedy events. Their drink menu is extensive and affordable, and they are extremely welcoming to everyone visiting the establishment.

Music Bars in the West Village

 

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There are a ton of bars in this neighborhood that feature live music on a nightly basis. Mostly jazz and piano, these establishments are some of the best parts of the neighborhood. Some of the best include:

Marie’s Crisis

This piano bar is famous for playing show tunes until the wee hours of the morning. Guests are invited to sing along while they sip on specialty cocktails. The atmosphere here is energetic and fun, making it impossible to have a bad time.

Smalls Jazz Club

This jazz venue is a not-for-profit organization that supports continuing music education in NYC. It also helped music venues survive and thrive during the pandemic. The music here is top notch and the drinks aren’t too shabby either.

Cellar Dog

This establishment has a little bit of everything from pool tables to ping pong. While guests are playing these games, they can listen to some of the best jazz in the city. The bar doesn’t serve hard liquor, but they have plenty of beer and wine.

Where to Live in the West Village

The West Village has plenty of great places for people to plant roots. Some of the best homes in this neighborhood include:

The Cezanne

This red brick co-op is extremely popular with people in the neighborhood and has undergone regular renovations to keep up with modern times. The best part of the building is the roof-top deck, and the laundry room is a close second.

241 West 13th Street

This historic building was built in 1904, but has been renovated several times to keep up with modern living standards. This building has 31 units spread across six stories, which means this rental building is better suited for smaller families and young professionals.

The Towers

This pre-war co-op was built in 1898, but converted into a residence nearly a hundred years later. This building has a parking garage, roof-top deck, and a laundry room on every single floor, making this place extremely convenient for residents.

57 Carmine Street

This rental building features huge rooms, hardwood flooring, and stainless steel appliances like refrigerators and gas stoves. Located in a historic brownstone from the early 1900’s, this place is great for young professionals and history buffs.

Printing House

Renovated from a printing house built in the 1920s, this condo has a ton of amenities including a fitness center, concierge, and a bike room. There’s a large laundry facility too, though residents have washer and dryer hook-ups in their home as well.

400 Bleecker Street

This landmarked building was constructed in 1910 and renovated into a luxury rental building equipped with hardwood flooring and stainless steel appliances. With eight units inside five stories, this building is great for families.

Morton Square

This luxury condo is enormous, and comes with some amazing amenities including a fitness center, children’s playroom, and a parking lot. Many homes here feature gorgeous views of the Hudson River and/or Manhattan, making this a highly coveted place.

240 Waverly Place

This beautiful red brick rental building was built in 1916 and has undergone some amazing renovations. Many of the homes here even have dishwashers! This building also includes a laundry room, making it extremely convenient.

The Waverly

This co-op was built in 1929, and is a landmarked building with a full time doorman, laundry room, and bike storage. This beautiful building has been renovated to meet modern standards while retaining many of its historic charms.

1 Christopher Street

This rental building was constructed in 1931, and is full of studios and one bedroom apartments that would make any bachelor happy. Homes here come equipped with ample space and beautiful appliances.

Traveling in the West Village

The West Village is an easy enough place to get to and traverse. The streets might be small, but there are other ways of getting around, including:

Trains

The NYC subways system services this neighborhood well. Trains that stop in the West Village include the 1, 2, 3, A, B, C, D, and E lines.

Buses

There are a number of bus lines that service this area, including the M7, M8, M11, M12, M14-SBS, M20, M21, M55, SIM7, SIM9, and SIM33.

Ride Shares and Bike Rentals

Being one of the oldest neighborhoods in the city, many of the streets here are skinny, one way, and, in some cases, even made of cobblestone. This makes driving around this area a bit difficult. So, while ride shares are popular in the area, using them to get around isn’t the most practical idea. Biking is a much more popular option, and there are plenty of Citi Bike rental stations for your convenience. That said, this neighborhood is very easy to walk though, and is a great way to see the historic sites that are offered here.

The West Village is full of history, beauty, and art that blows the minds of visitors and locals alike. This neighborhood is a home away from home for many New Yorkers and is a great place to let loose and have fun on the weekends. Full of great food, drinks, and music, people who come to the West Village will experience art and culture no matter where they go. This neighborhood is one of the most unique in the city, and is a favorite for many locals for a reason. The West Village is extremely welcoming, so come see what all the fuss is about!

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