Hell's Kitchen (Clinton)

8th Ave, Between 34th and 59th St, New York, NY 212-243-5343

Description: HELL'S KITCHEN. The rectangular section of Midtown West has a colorful history. But then, what else would you expect from a neighborhood called Hell's Kitchen? Years ago, these blocks were linked to the New York underworld, and it wasn't uncommon for rival gangs to find themselves at odds (think "West Side Story"). Aside from all of the competition for luxury condos, neighborhood turbulence isn't an issue anymore. Hell's Kitchen (or Clinton, as many real estate developers refer to it) has been reinvented as a trendy neighborhood that's home to many young professionals, and its old storefronts have been converted into posh boutiques, bars and restaurants. In addition, there's the Annex / Hell's Kitchen Flea Market, whose 170-plus vendors specialize in everything from antiques to vintage clothing. TRAIN: A, C, E, 1, 2, 3 to 42nd St/Times Square
More Details

Malcolm Shabazz Market

52 W 116th St, between Malcom X Blvd & 5th Ave, New York, NY 10026 212-987-8131

Description: HARLEM. For traditional African art and crafts, few places in NYC hold a candle to the wares available at Harlem's Shabazz Market. TRAIN: 2, 3 to 116th St
More Details

Union Square

Park Ave at Broadway, New York, NY 10003 212-460-1200

Description: UNION SQUARE. This grassy enclosure is surrounded by some of Manhattan's best restaurants and boutiques. The park, designed in the first half of the 19th century, is home to the popular Greenmarket, where you can buy flowers, plants, and produce of all types. From Thanksgiving to Christmas Eve, a bustling holiday market carries everything from designer handbags to handcrafted ornaments. Historically, the square has been the setting for political rallies and street-corner orators, much like Speaker's Corner in London; in recent times, it hosted candlelight vigils honoring victims of the September 11 terrorist attacks. TRAIN: 4, 5, 6, L, N, Q, R, W to Union Sq-14th St
More Details