Sip drinks at sidewalk tables and explore the independent stores and restaurants that give this Italian-influenced neighborhood its colorful character.

Spend a relaxed day discovering the many charms of Manhattan’s Nolita district, a lively area that offers plenty to see and do without the crowds of some of the city’s more obvious tourist areas. Drink great coffee and sample high-quality food at Italian-owned cafés, delis and restaurants. Browse independent stores for the perfect souvenir and study some art at a boutique gallery.

Nolita’s distinctive name, short for North Little Italy, is a reference to its large Italian-American population and its location on the border of Manhattan’s main Little Italy district. Its leafy streets are full of people going about their business, shopping and chatting at all times of the day. Look for colorful graffiti and street art as you explore.

Start your visit to Nolita by grabbing breakfast and coffee at a bakery such as La Colombe. Then simply drift among the four blocks that make up this small but vibrant community, admiring the old-fashioned walk-up buildings. In good weather, expect to find the streets filled with people lounging outside restaurants and enjoying the sun.

Soak up some culture at a gallery. Pop-up galleries appear at various locations throughout the year, but you can be sure of seeing something interesting by heading to an established favorite.

Whether you have money to spend or not, you can easily while away an hour or two hopping between the many interesting stores in the area. Take a look at the well-known brands or pick up something truly unique in one of the smaller independent stores.

Walk to Nolita in just minutes from many other interesting parts of the city. It is right next door to SoHo and the East Village. The area is also well connected by public transportation. Stay until the evening to finish the day in true Italian style, seated at a restaurant’s outdoor table, savoring a glass of good wine.