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coworkingMidtown South
Midtown South is a vibrant area of Manhattan, New York City, with somewhat fluid boundaries depending on the context. Generally, it's considered to be south of traditional Midtown, with its northern border typically falling between 34th and 42nd Streets. The southern boundary is often placed around 23rd or 14th Street, while the western edge extends to the Hudson River or 8th/9th Avenue, and the eastern border reaches to Lexington, Madison, or Park Avenue.
In the commercial real estate context, Midtown South may extend further south, reaching as far as Canal or Chambers Street. The New York City Police Department's Midtown South Precinct defines the area as bounded by 29th Street to the south, 45th Street to the north, Ninth Avenue to the west, and Lexington Avenue to the east, with a slight variation between 40th and 34th Streets where Madison Avenue becomes the eastern boundary.
History
The history of Midtown South is deeply intertwined with the development of Manhattan. Originally inhabited by the Lenape Indians, the area was claimed by the Dutch in 1624 as part of New Amsterdam. Throughout the 18th and early 19th centuries, the region was primarily farmland.
Significant development began in the 19th century when the area was incorporated into New York City's expanding grid system, finalized in 1811. In 1822, the land that now comprises Midtown South officially came under New York City's jurisdiction.
The late 19th century saw rapid urbanization, with elegant brownstones and mansions being constructed. However, the neighborhood's character dramatically changed in the early 20th century. A 1916 zoning law unexpectedly transformed the area, as Jewish immigrant garment workers, facing discrimination elsewhere, established textile shops and garment lofts in Midtown South.
The area has a colorful past, once known as the Tenderloin or Devil's Arcade due to its reputation for nightlife, prostitution, and bootlegging in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. However, this reputation shifted with the influx of the garment industry and later, technology and media companies.
Types of Buildings
Midtown South features a diverse array of building types, reflecting its rich history and evolving urban landscape. The area is home to iconic skyscrapers like the Empire State Building and the Flatiron Building, which showcase early 20th-century architectural innovation.
The neighborhood also retains many pre-war buildings, including former textile factories and garment lofts that have been repurposed into offices, apartments, and retail spaces. These buildings often feature high ceilings, large windows, and industrial aesthetics that are highly sought after in the modern real estate market.
More recent developments include modern office towers, luxury residential buildings, and mixed-use complexes. The Hudson Yards development on the western edge of Midtown South represents the latest phase of the area's evolution, featuring ultra-modern skyscrapers and amenities.
Subways
Midtown South is well-served by New York City's extensive subway system. Key stations in the area include:
- 34th Street-Penn Station: 1, 2, 3, A, C, E lines
- 34th Street-Herald Square: B, D, F, M, N, Q, R, W lines
- 23rd Street stations: Various lines
- 28th Street stations: Various lines
These subway connections make Midtown South one of the most accessible neighborhoods in Manhattan, contributing to its popularity as a business and residential district.
Restaurants
Midtown South boasts a diverse culinary scene, reflecting the area's eclectic character. While specific restaurant recommendations would require more current information, the neighborhood is known for hosting a wide range of dining options, from high-end establishments to casual eateries and food halls.
The area around Korea Way (32nd Street between Fifth Avenue and Broadway) is particularly notable for its concentration of Korean restaurants and businesses, forming the heart of Manhattan's Koreatown.
Museums
While Midtown South isn't as museum-dense as some other parts of Manhattan, it does host several notable institutions:
- The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA): Located just north of the traditional Midtown South boundary, it is one of the world's most influential modern art museums.
- The Morgan Library & Museum: On Madison Avenue, it houses a significant collection of rare books, manuscripts, and artwork.
- Fotografiska New York: A photography museum located in the historic Church Missions House on Park Avenue South.
Retail Stores
Midtown South is a major shopping destination, featuring a mix of iconic department stores, flagship locations, and smaller boutiques. Some notable retail areas include:
- Herald Square: Home to the flagship Macy's store, one of the world's largest department stores.
- Fifth Avenue: Known for its luxury retailers and flagship stores.
- The Garment District: Retains many textile and fashion-related businesses.
Company Offices
Midtown South has become a hub for various industries, particularly technology, media, and fashion. Some notable companies with offices in the area include:
- Google: With a major presence in the Chelsea Market building.
- Facebook: Occupying space in Hudson Yards.
- Amazon: With offices near Herald Square.
- Fashion and garment industry companies: Many are located in the Garment District.
The area is also home to numerous startups and smaller tech companies, earning it the nickname "Silicon Alley".
Universities
While Midtown South isn't primarily known as an educational hub, it does host some higher education institutions:
- The Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT): A SUNY college focused on design, fashion, art, and business, located on Seventh Avenue.
- Baruch College: Part of the City University of New York (CUNY) system, with its campus on the eastern edge of the area.
- The New School: A progressive university with several buildings in the area, particularly around Fifth Avenue and 14th Street.
Conclusion
Midtown South is a dynamic and multifaceted neighborhood that has evolved significantly over time. From its origins as farmland to its current status as a bustling commercial and cultural center, the area continues to play a crucial role in New York City's urban fabric. Its diverse mix of historic and modern buildings, excellent transportation links, varied dining and retail options, and concentration of businesses make it a microcosm of New York City's energy and diversity.
