Rooted in the history of Jewish Easter European, Italian, and Irish immigrants who settled in overcrowded tenements at the turn of the century, today’s Lower East Side (L.E.S.) is NYC’s creative epicenter, brimming with classic and contemporary boutiques, culinary triumphs, and an unparalleled nightlife. Characterized by low-rise tenements below Houston and above Canal Streets and spanning from the East River to the Bowery, the L.E.S. showcases its history with the fresh, independent artists, musicians and designers who mingle with century-old small businesses.

           The L.E.S. is a true cultural fusion featuring the character of its original founders, blending with the later influences of its Hispanic and Asian merchants and residents and today’s trendsetters and young urban professionals. Best explored on foot, the L.E.S. invites you to sample a complex variety of scents, sights, and tastes.

            Stemming from its immigrant past and reaching towards today, cultural institutions abound on the L.E.S. the Lower East Side Tenement Museum offers a chance to experience the struggles of the area’s first residents via guided tours of restored tenement apartments (www.tenement.org); Eldridge Street Synagogue offers ongoing historic tours of its ornate landmark building (www.eldridgestreet.org) ; Free Sunday walking tours beginning at 11 a.m. at famed pastrami institution, Katz’s Deli (corner of Houston and Ludlow streets) highlight the area’s progression into retail shopping district (www.LowerEastSideNY.com). Every last Sunday of the month, guided gallery tours explore the area’s burgeoning artist community (www.elseles.org). Tours begin at 1pm at the Visitor Center (261 Broome St. between Orchard and Allen St.), where you’ll find tons more information about the area, including a GO EAST! Guide, featuring a walking tour and discounts at nearly 100 of the local shops and restaurants.

            Speaking of discounts, your walk through the area will showcase how yesteryear’s bargain district—featuring handbags, leather jackets, sportswear, home furnishings and linens below retail prices at stores like VIP leather, Harris Levy, Zarin Fabrics and Home Furnishings, Altman Luggage, Fine & Klein, and Jodamo—is complemented by fashion forward shops like Johnson, Hairy Mary’s Vintage, Frock, Wendy Mink Jewelry, David Owen’s Vintage, and many more offer hot vintage clothing, jewelry of the newest trends by well established designers.

            The L.E.S. is constantly evolving, and continually thrilling. The neighborhood’s energy and creativity bloom incessantly throughout the day, afternoon, and night, so keep your eyes peeled for ongoing events and other local ventures.

            Lasting throughout the ages, and plunging forward daily in the character of its tenacious immigrant founders, this exciting juxtaposition begs to be explored. One Lower East Side visit will have you understanding why we say L.E.S. is more. Explore.