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1st Avenue: Manhattan

The easternmost full-length avenue in Manhattan is 1st Avenue. It begins modestly as Pike and Allen Streets below Houston Street. But north of Houston, where the numbered streets reside, 1st Avenue continues straight through to Harlem.

1st Avenue video:

The Avenue

This is the story of 1st Avenue in Manhattan.

It begins as Pike Street in the Lower Manhattan neighborhood of Two Bridges before becoming Allen Street in Chinatown.

The thoroughfare transforms into 1st Avenue as you cross Houston Street and continues up to its terminus at East 127th Street and the Harlem River Drive in East Harlem. Along the way you move from the grit of the Bowery, to the offbeat streets of the East Village and St. Marks Place, past the United Nations and on toward the Upper East Side before finding the rhythms of Spanish Harlem and East Harlem.

1st Avenue is a prominent thoroughfare that runs along the eastern side of Manhattan, New York City. It spans from Houston Street in the south to Harlem River Drive in the north. 1st Avenue serves as a vital transportation artery, providing access to various neighborhoods and landmarks throughout the island. The avenue passes through diverse neighborhoods such as the Lower East Side, East Village, Gramercy, and Yorkville, each offering its own distinct character and charm. Along 1st Avenue, one can find an array of dining options, from trendy cafes and international cuisines to iconic New York City delis. The avenue is also home to notable institutions such as Bellevue Hospital Center, one of the oldest public hospitals in the United States, and the United Nations Headquarters, a global diplomatic hub. In addition, 1st Avenue offers scenic views of the East River, with parks and waterfront promenades providing opportunities for recreation and relaxation. Whether it's exploring the vibrant street life, indulging in culinary delights, or enjoying the proximity to iconic landmarks, 1st Avenue offers a quintessential Manhattan experience.

The history of 1st Avenue in Manhattan is intertwined with the growth and development of New York City itself. Originally, the avenue was part of the grid plan established in the early 19th century, as the city expanded northward. As Manhattan grew, 1st Avenue became a vital thoroughfare connecting various neighborhoods and serving as a key transportation route. Over the years, the avenue witnessed significant changes and transformations, reflecting the evolving character of the surrounding areas. In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, waves of immigrants settled along 1st Avenue, bringing their unique cultures and shaping the neighborhood's identity. The Lower East Side, in particular, became a bustling hub of immigrant communities, with tenement buildings and bustling street markets. Throughout the 20th century, the avenue continued to evolve, experiencing periods of urban renewal, infrastructure improvements, and the construction of notable institutions such as Bellevue Hospital Center and the United Nations Headquarters. Today, 1st Avenue stands as a bustling thoroughfare, blending historical elements with modern developments, offering a glimpse into the rich history and vibrant spirit of Manhattan.

1st Avenue in Manhattan is home to several major landmarks and attractions that capture the essence of the vibrant city. One notable landmark is the United Nations Headquarters, located on 1st Avenue and 42nd Street. This iconic complex serves as a global symbol of diplomacy and houses the General Assembly and the Secretariat. Just a few blocks south, one can find Bellevue Hospital Center, a renowned medical institution known for its cutting-edge healthcare services and historical significance as one of the oldest public hospitals in the United States. Continuing south, 1st Avenue passes through the East Village, a neighborhood renowned for its bohemian charm, eclectic boutiques, and lively nightlife scene. Along the avenue, visitors can also explore Tompkins Square Park, a beloved green space offering serene pathways, recreational facilities, and a venue for community gatherings and cultural events. As 1st Avenue stretches further south, it passes through the vibrant neighborhood of the Lower East Side, known for its rich immigrant history, vibrant street art, and diverse culinary scene. From cultural institutions to green spaces and thriving neighborhoods, 1st Avenue in Manhattan offers an array of landmarks and attractions that embody the dynamic and cosmopolitan spirit of the city.

Neighborhoods visited on 1st Avenue:

1st Avenue Highlight Gallery

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All photography provided by Samuel Walters