Founded in the 17th century as, you guessed it, a port, the Seaport neighborhood of New York sits on the eastern side of Manhattan, just below the Brooklyn Bridge. It played a large part in establishing New York as a commercial and industrial hub, but today it’s become a popular entertainment district with incredible views of the East River and Brooklyn.

The three piers that extend into the river from Seaport house upscale bars and restaurants, and a premiere shopping center at Pier 17. Away from the water is a seemingly endless offering of cafes, eateries, coffee shops, and stores with all the variety one would expect of New York.

Apartment buildings mingle with office high-rises, both of which are afforded some of the best views in Manhattan. FDR Drive makes for a convenient ring road around the east side of the island, but if like most NYC renters you don’t have a personal car, there’s plenty of subway coverage to get you around the boroughs.