East Village Underground

Start in the heart of the East Village. This park has seen punk rock history, poetry slams, and protests. People-watch from a bench before diving in.

3 min walk. Ukrainian diner open 24 hours since 1954. Pierogies, borscht, and burgers at honest prices. A true NYC institution.

5 min walk. Legendary poetry slam and open mic venue since 1973. Check the calendar — Friday night slams are electric and tickets are cheap.

10 min walk. Enter through the phone booth inside Crif Dogs hot dog shop. Dial the number, the wall opens, and you're in one of the world's most famous speakeasies.