I can confidently say this neighborhood is a shopper’s paradise. Whether you’re hunting for high-end designer labels, unique independent boutiques, or authentic souvenirs, SoHo offers an unparalleled blend of shopping experiences that cater to every taste and budget. Over the years, I’ve explored a variety of shopping centers and markets here, soaking up the atmosphere, testing the service, and discovering hidden gems.
I’ll walk you through four modern shopping centers I love, plus two traditional markets that you absolutely must visit. Along the way, I’ll share my honest thoughts on the stores, the staff, prices, and even the occasional discount opportunities.
Modern Shopping Centers I’ve Explored in SoHo
1. Westfield SoHo — The Hub of Contemporary Retail
- Location: 75 Spring Street, between Broadway and Crosby Street
- Stores & Highlights: Westfield SoHo is a compact but trendy shopping destination that houses a mixture of popular brands and some luxury names. You’ll find Apple Store, Sephora, Uniqlo, and the stylish AllSaints here. The mall’s design feels airy and modern, which is a refreshing change from the narrow streets outside.
- My Experience: I visited Westfield SoHo on a chilly October afternoon, and I appreciated the spacious interiors and the helpfulness of the staff at the Apple Store. It was easy to navigate, and I liked that it offered some well-known brands all under one roof, making it perfect for a quick shopping fix.
- Pros: Great for quick access to tech, cosmetics, and essentials. Clean, well-staffed, and centrally located.
- Cons: It doesn’t have the indie vibe SoHo is famous for — more mainstream.
- Discounts: Seasonal sales, especially around Black Friday, can offer up to 30% off in stores like AllSaints and Uniqlo.
- Insider Tip: Visit Sephora early in the day to avoid crowds, and check their app for exclusive samples.
2. The Arlo SoHo Pop-Up Shopping Arcade
- Location: 231 Hudson Street, inside the Arlo SoHo Hotel
- Stores & Highlights: This hidden gem inside the hip Arlo SoHo Hotel combines a rotating selection of boutiques, including emerging designers, sustainable brands, and artisanal crafts. I stumbled upon Maison Balzac, a French-inspired boutique with unique home goods, and Wolf & Badger, known for ethically produced fashion.
- My Experience: I loved the intimate setting. The boutique staff here were genuinely passionate about their products and took time to explain the story behind each item. The atmosphere was relaxed, a real contrast to the busy main streets.
- Pros: Unique products you won’t find in chains, personalized service.
- Cons: Limited selection, so you may need to check back for new collections.
- Discounts: Sometimes they offer guest discounts for hotel visitors or during special events — keep an eye on their social media.
- Insider Tip: Combine shopping with a coffee at the hotel’s café—it’s the perfect pause from the hustle.
3. The Mercer Street Market
- Location: 120 Mercer Street, near Prince Street
- Stores & Highlights: This modern indoor marketplace is a mix of fashion boutiques, art galleries, and specialty food vendors. Brands like APC, Reformation, and Telfar have permanent spots here, making it a hotspot for trendy shoppers.
- My Experience: On a rainy day, Mercer Street Market was my refuge. I spent hours browsing the sleek shops, sampling gourmet chocolates from Mast Brothers, and chatting with staff about their ethical sourcing. It felt like a boutique village inside the city.
- Pros: Diverse shopping options, art installations, and gourmet food stalls all in one place.
- Cons: Can get crowded on weekends.
- Discounts: Occasional pop-up sales and “shop local” weekends with discounts up to 20%.
- Insider Tip: Arrive early on Saturdays to avoid crowds and enjoy a relaxed browsing experience.
4. SoHo Place Shopping Complex
- Location: 189 Lafayette Street
- Stores & Highlights: A newer addition to SoHo’s retail scene, SoHo Place features a blend of luxury and mid-tier brands like Coach, Kate Spade, and Lululemon. It’s modern, sleek, and perfect for shoppers looking for everything from bags to activewear.
- My Experience: This was my go-to when I wanted something stylish but not overly expensive. The Coach store is spacious, with a friendly sales team who helped me pick out a classic handbag. The building itself is stylish and offers a few cafés on-site, perfect for a shopping break.
- Pros: Wide range of brands, excellent customer service.
- Cons: Not the best place for vintage or quirky finds.
- Discounts: Frequent seasonal discounts and loyalty programs available via brand apps.
- Insider Tip: Sign up for brand newsletters before your trip to access exclusive in-store coupons.
Traditional Markets and Where to Find Unique Souvenirs
1. Artists & Fleas Market
- Location: 568 Broadway, corner of Broome Street
- What It Offers: This iconic SoHo market is a haven for those seeking handmade crafts, vintage clothing, and one-of-a-kind souvenirs. Artisans sell everything from custom jewelry to limited-edition prints.
- My Experience: I was blown away by the energy here. The vendors are passionate, often sharing the stories behind their creations. I found a hand-carved wooden jewelry box that instantly became my favorite souvenir.
- Pros: Unique finds, direct interaction with artists, vibrant atmosphere.
- Cons: Prices can be a bit high, but worth it for originality.
- Discounts: Some vendors are open to negotiation, especially if you buy multiple items.
- Insider Tip: Visit on a Sunday afternoon to catch the full market experience, including street performances.
2. Canal Street Market
- Location: 265 Canal Street (just a short walk from SoHo)
- What It Offers: Though technically just outside SoHo, this indoor market is a fantastic place for vintage fashion, local crafts, and unique gifts. Vendors rotate frequently, so it always feels fresh.
- My Experience: I found an amazing vintage leather jacket here, plus some quirky home décor items. The market felt like a mini treasure hunt, with vendors eager to share tips on NYC culture.
- Pros: Affordable vintage finds, diverse vendors.
- Cons: Can be overwhelming due to size.
- Discounts: Midweek visits often mean less competition and better bargaining chances.
- Insider Tip: Bring cash as some stalls don’t accept cards, and don’t hesitate to haggle respectfully.
Where to Buy Souvenirs in SoHo
- Fishs Eddy (889 Broadway): Famous for its quirky NYC-themed dinnerware and gifts. The staff are super friendly and happy to gift-wrap your purchases.
- The Evolution Store (120 Prince Street): If you want something truly offbeat, like fossils or scientific curiosities, this place is a must. It’s a little museum-meets-shop.
- Pioneer Works Store (Red Hook, Brooklyn, but with pop-ups in SoHo): Great for locally made art prints and design objects.
Making the Most of Your SoHo Shopping Experience
Shopping in SoHo isn’t just about buying things — it’s an immersive cultural experience that blends fashion, art, and the unique energy of New York City’s most stylish neighborhood. Over the years, I’ve come to appreciate not only the incredible variety of shops but also the little details that make a visit to SoHo so memorable.
Embrace the Neighborhood’s Atmosphere
- SoHo’s cobblestone streets and cast-iron buildings provide a beautiful backdrop that makes shopping feel like a stroll through a living museum. Take your time and enjoy the street art, charming cafés, and impromptu performances you might stumble upon as you wander between stores.
- I always recommend leaving some “unscheduled” time in your itinerary to explore side streets like Wooster and Greene, where smaller boutiques and galleries hide away from the busier main avenues.
Tips for Navigating the Crowds
- Weekends, especially Saturdays, tend to be packed, so if you prefer a quieter shopping experience, try visiting on weekday mornings.
- Early mornings also mean shop staff can give you more personalized attention and styling advice, which I found invaluable on my last trip when picking out gifts for friends.
- Many stores in SoHo participate in citywide events like “First Fridays,” when shops stay open late, host live music, and offer special discounts. These nights create a festive atmosphere but expect larger crowds.
Where to Refuel
- Shopping can be exhausting! SoHo has some fantastic eateries where you can recharge. My personal favorite is Jack’s Wife Freda (224 Lafayette St), a cozy spot offering delicious Mediterranean-inspired dishes — perfect for brunch or a light lunch.
- For a quick pick-me-up, don’t miss the street vendors selling everything from gourmet pretzels to fresh-pressed juices.
- Many shopping centers and markets also have coffee bars or juice stands — take advantage of these little pauses to relax and plan your next stop.
Budgeting Your Shopping Trip
- Set a realistic budget beforehand. It’s easy to get carried away among so many tempting boutiques and designer stores.
- Keep an eye out for tax-free shopping days, usually announced around holidays, which can save you 8-9% on your purchases.
- Many shops accept major credit cards, but having a small amount of cash is handy, especially in markets or for tipping helpful staff.
Sustainability and Ethical Shopping
- SoHo has become a hub for sustainable fashion and eco-friendly brands. Stores like Reformation and Stella McCartney offer stylish options made with the environment in mind.
- When shopping, consider asking vendors about the sourcing and production of their goods — many are proud to share their commitment to ethical practices.
- I personally feel great knowing my purchases support local artisans or environmentally conscious companies.
Practical Info for Visitors
- Public transportation is the best way to reach SoHo. The Subway stations at Broadway-Lafayette (B, D, F, M trains) or Prince Street (N, R, W trains) put you right in the heart of the neighborhood.
- Parking is scarce and expensive, so avoid driving if possible.
- Dress comfortably—SoHo is a walking neighborhood with uneven sidewalks in places. Good shoes are a must.
- Wi-Fi is widely available in cafés and many stores, which makes it easy to look up product reviews or compare prices on the go.
My Personal Reflection
SoHo has remained one of my favorite New York neighborhoods precisely because it keeps evolving while maintaining its unique charm. Each visit feels like uncovering a new layer of the city’s fashion and cultural landscape. Whether I’m hunting for the perfect leather jacket, discovering a local artist’s handcrafted jewelry, or just enjoying the buzz of the streets, SoHo never disappoints.
I encourage every traveler to approach SoHo shopping not just as a task, but as an adventure. Chat with shop owners, try something new, and soak up the creative energy that makes this neighborhood a world-class destination for fashion lovers and casual browsers alike.
So pack your most comfortable shoes, bring your curiosity, and dive into SoHo’s eclectic shopping scene—you’ll leave with not only great finds but unforgettable memories.
