4 Recommended Spots Along 8th Avenue, the Boundary Line of Manhattan, NY

4 Recommended Spots Along 8th Avenue, the Boundary Line of Manhattan, NY

New York is famous as a rationally designed city, with streets laid out like a grid. Manhattan in particular is known for its easy-to-navigate layout, making it difficult to get lost. The streets in Manhattan are divided into vertical "Avenues," which increase in number from east to west, and horizontal "Streets," which increase in number from south to north. Each street has its own unique character.
This time, let’s explore the charm of Manhattan’s 8th Avenue, the eighth avenue counted from the east!

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4 Recommended Spots Along 8th Avenue, the Boundary Line of Manhattan, NY

1. Positional Context of 8th Avenue

Manhattan’s 8th Avenue runs north-south along the western side of southern Manhattan. Since 1954, it has been a one-way northbound street, making it easy to orient yourself when standing on 8th Avenue. Interestingly, the atmosphere of Manhattan changes drastically depending on which side of 8th Avenue you're on. The east side is lively with places like Times Square and Broadway, while the west side is filled with local hangouts, giving you a glimpse of two completely different faces of Manhattan.
Spend the daytime sightseeing, then enjoy a drink at a bar where New Yorkers gather at night! That’s one of the true pleasures of visiting Manhattan.

2. James A. Farley Post Office

The most famous building on Manhattan’s 8th Avenue is the James A. Farley Post Office, essentially New York’s central post office. Its architectural significance has been recognized, and like the Hotel Chelsea on the same avenue, it is listed on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places.
It’s the largest post office in Manhattan, and the massive Corinthian columns towering over the entrance are especially impressive! It’s perfect for commemorative photos in Manhattan. The front of the post office features wide steps, where people often sit to enjoy lunch during the day. If you're visiting 8th Avenue, this is a spot you should casually stop by.

3. Hearst Tower

Located near Columbus Circle at the southwest corner of Central Park, the Hearst Tower is a new landmark that opened on Manhattan’s 8th Avenue in 2006. It's the headquarters of the Hearst Corporation, one of the world’s largest multimedia companies. A modern building featuring a triangular motif sits atop a six-story structure originally built in 1928.
Its environmental focus is notable. Rainwater is collected on the top floor and reused for air conditioning and toilets. Interior lighting automatically adjusts based on outdoor light, and 30% of the steel frame is made from recycled materials. Recognized by New York City as its first green office building, it has become a prominent sightseeing spot along 8th Avenue.
In true Hearst fashion, the first-floor lobby offers brochures styled like fashion magazines. Be sure to pick one up and learn more about this green building.

4. Hotel Chelsea

The “legendary hotel” on Manhattan’s 8th Avenue is Hotel Chelsea. Originally built as an apartment complex in 1883, it officially opened as a hotel in 1905. Many artists have lived here, including Sid Vicious, Arthur Miller, and Bob Dylan, and it has been featured in numerous works, adding to its fame.
Although it closed in 2011 after being sold, ending over 120 years of history, it made a much-anticipated comeback in 2016. Even today, many visitors come to Manhattan just to stay at Hotel Chelsea.
Then and now, it remains a popular spot for those visiting 8th Avenue. It’s one of the most historically rich buildings on Manhattan’s 8th Avenue.

◎ Summary

This was an introduction to Manhattan’s 8th Avenue in New York. Manhattan has many streets, but 8th Avenue stands out as a unique one that divides the city.
From a hotel with ties to legendary figures to a tower with a dazzling jewel-like design, there are plenty of highlights! Be sure to take a leisurely stroll down 8th Avenue when you visit New York.

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