This neighborhood of quaint brownstones clustered along tree-lined cobblestone streets remains virtually unchanged since the 19th century. You'll need a map to navigate the puzzling geography — how does West 4th Street intersect with West 10th Street, exactly? — as it's one of the few areas in Manhattan that strays from the orderly street grid. Better, though, to just wander aimlessly. Highlights include the Jefferson Market Courthouse, a former women's detention center that once held Mae West, and the shops along Bleecker St. and Commerce St. — the most beautiful block-long side street in NYC. Ignore the temptation to join the curiously long line outside Magnolia Bakery (they're queuing for cupcakes — repeat, cupcakes). Head two blocks west instead to the Spotted Pig, a bustling gastropub where you can recharge your batteries with a cask-conditioned ale.

• 1. Jefferson Market Courthouse
  425 6th Avenue, New York, NY 10014; 212-243-4334 40.734589-73.998867 nypl.org
• 2. Magnolia Bakery
  401 Bleecker Street, New York, NY 10014; 212-462-2572 40.736007-74.005127 magnoliabakery.com
• 3. Spotted Pig
  314 West 11th Street, New York, NY 10014; 212-620-0393 40.735611-74.006642 thespottedpig.com