Tribeca Neighborhood, New York City: a Quiet Oasis amidst the Bustle of Lower Manhattan

Trinity church and the downtown Manhattan skyline at dusk

Tribeca neighborhood, New York City, was known as the meat packing district until the name Tribeca, was launched by city officials in the 1960's. Today it is a well established residential neighborhood on the lower west side of Manhattan. The name is an abbreviation for "Triangle Below Canal'' Street,

While some streets are lined with stone and brick houses built for residency, most of the buildings were warehouses and factories initially (with Romanesque style architecture). These buildings were for the most part converted into spacious loft spaces in the late 1970's and 1980's. While these buildings were low priced bargains for buyers in the early 1970's, today, renting a 1 bedroom or studio apartment costs a minimum of $2,000 per month. Recently Forbes Magazine rated this neighborhood as one of the most expensive zip codes in which to live in the U.S.

Tribeca is located just south west of China Town and north of the Wall Street area of lower Manhattan. To the Southeast lies City Hall, Borough Hall and other government buildings. The neighborhood borders to the west on the Hudson River where one can stroll in the Hudson River Park. Right at the park are also found Pier 25 and 26, which are homes to a putting green, snack bar, trapeze school, a boat house and numerous other activities. These restored city piers are also docking points for several boats that are often chartered for floating concerts and dance parties around the island.

At least 100 artists have their studios in Tribeca neighborhood, New York City, An artist studio walking tour is one of several walking tours available in the neighborhood. This part of town is also known for low cost alternative music events and occasionally, poetry events.

Prior to mid-September of 2001, this area was literally situated in the shadows of the Twin Towers. In the wake of 9/11, there were rumors of an exodus from the area and much of lower Manhattan by residents. Though this flight never occurred there was a drop in tourism and business in the ensuing months. In an attempt to raise spirits and regenerate business in the area, actor Robert DeNiro, was among those that launched the Tribeca Film Festival. The festival has become an annual event in the spring. DeNiro is the proprietor of the Tribeca Grill, located near the Franklin Street station on the Seventh Avenue Subway the 1/9 train. It did not take long for tourists to return from other areas to sample the fine cuisine and relaxed pace.

With its cobblestone streets Tribeca, neighborhood, New York City is a pleasant and quiet neighborhood with a sprinkling of good food and diverse bars and only a short walk from a half dozen more crowded shopping, business and tourist areas in this city that never sleeps.