Fun Things to Do in Chinatown, NYC

Tap to Read ➤ Ishaan Govardhan

The multi-cultural spirit of New York City is reflected in the fact that even this slice of China doesn't feel like it's out of place in Lower Manhattan. The vibrant neighborhood of Chinatown packs exotic surprises around every corner, and it's home to the largest concentration of Chinese people in the West. Time to step past the cultural barriers!

Your browser doesn't support HTML5 video. An influx of Asian immigrants revitalized this neighborhood after its crime-ridden past (which inspired Leonardo DiCaprio's Gangs of New York movie). Now, about 100,000 Asian-Americans call this colorful place home. Many cross-cultural experiences are waiting for you here.

Start your cultural dive! Visit Eldridge Street Synagogue in Chinatown, a piece of Jewish history since 1887.

Your browser doesn't support HTML5 video. Explore Confucius Plaza! See the 15 ft bronze Confucius statue, a fixture since 1976.

Swing by the Eastern States Buddhist Temple to explore the spiritual side of Chinatown. Devout locals have been frequenting it since it was founded in 1962. This is one of the oldest Chinese Buddhist temples in USA. Before you leave, you can donate $1 to read a fortune scroll .

Your browser doesn't support HTML5 video. Find peace at Mahayana Temple! Bow to the golden Buddha, admire ivory carvings, and meditate stress away.

Your browser doesn't support HTML5 video. Family fun at Columbus Park! Kids' play area and basketball court for a change of pace.

Before you leave Columbus Park, join the locals for a refreshing Tai Chi session. This is where the Chinese-American community gathers for chit-chat over a friendly game of mahjong .

Your browser doesn't support HTML5 video. Canal Street: Fashion hub! From upscale boutiques to street stalls with knockoffs.

Chinatown's Museum of Chinese in America (MOCA) is teeming with beautiful artefacts and historical exhibits pertaining to the fascinating history of Chinese immigrants. It's a living, breathing record of the area's rich contributions to American society.

While you're at MOCA —under the watchful eyes of the masters— you can try your hand at the ancient art of C hinese calligraphy and traditional Chinese kite-making .

Your browser doesn't support HTML5 video. Rediscover classic fun! Bring the kids to Chinatown Fair Family Fun Center for retro arcade games on Mott Street.

Stroll under the historic Manhattan Bridge Arch and Colonnade, built in 1915.

Your browser doesn't support HTML5 video. Savor the best! Indulge in delicious dim sum at top spots like Jing Fong and Nom Wah Tea Parlor.

Your browser doesn't support HTML5 video. For dessert, stroll over to the Original Chinatown Ice Cream Factory : a family-owned ice cream parlor loved by New Yorkers for its delectable ice cream. Try crazy new flavors like Thai Iced Tea and Zen Butter!

Of course, no trip to Chinatown is complete without a steaming bowlful of Cantonese noodles . Local favorites like Tasty Hand-Pulled Noodles and Xi'an Famous Foods serve authentic ramen that's delicious enough to rival the ramen served in China!

The Chinese Lunar New Year brings with it an atmosphere of festive joy that sweeps the streets of Lower Manahattan. In Chinatown, you'll get the chance to check out dragon dances and colorful parades that are steeped in fascinating Chinese traditions.