Skip to primary navigation Skip to content Skip to footer
Back to Blog

What is NOMAD?

a group of people walking down a street next to tall grass

Photo Credit: Viator

What is NoMad?

NoMad, which stands for North of Madison Square Park, is one of Manhattan’s most popular neighborhoods. Once a sleepy district known for its garment factories, NoMad has undergone a major transformation in recent years, becoming a vibrant hub for trendy restaurants, bars, and shops.

You might’ve heard NoMad and Flatiron paired together like PB&J. NoMad and Flatiron are neighboring neighborhoods in Manhattan, but they are actually distinct from each other.

  • NoMad (short for North of Madison Square Park) is the area just north of Madison Square Park. It is known for its historic buildings, trendy restaurants, and cultural institutions.
  • Flatiron is located just south of NoMad and is named after the iconic Flatiron Building. It is a well-known commercial and retail district with a mix of historic and modern architecture.

While they are close and often considered part of the same general area, they each have their own unique character and identity.

What makes NoMad so special?

Several factors contribute to NoMad’s popularity:

  • Central location: NoMad is centrally located in Manhattan, just minutes from Midtown and Downtown. This makes it a convenient place to live, work, and play. NoMad was once a notorious red-light district, but it has undergone a major transformation in recent years.
  • Beautiful architecture: NoMad is home to some of Manhattan’s most beautiful architecture, including the New York Life Building, and the Ace Hotel.
  • Easy access to public transportation: NoMad is well-served by public transportation, with several subway lines and bus routes running through the neighborhood.
  • Thriving food and nightlife scene: NoMad is home to a wide variety of restaurants, rooftop bars, cocktail lounges and cafes. Whether you’re looking for a casual bite to eat or a fancy night out, you’ll find something to suit your taste. Fun fact – The famous Shake Shack started as a food cart in Madison Square Park! It has since grown into the international fast-food phenomenon we know and love today. 

The NoMad Piazza:

The heart of the neighborhood is The Nomad Piazza – a lively spot on Broadway from 25th Street to 31st Street, where you can sample diverse cuisines from top New York restaurants, browse fashion and vintage finds, discover new art, and enjoy a range of pampering services. The area transitions seamlessly from day to night, with both locals and visitors enjoying the outdoor space and vibrant atmosphere. It embodies the “live–work–play” ideal, making it a standout destination in NoMad. NoMad Piazza gained popularity in 2020 as a pedestrian-friendly area, created as part of New York City’s Open Streets initiative for better social distancing.

Photo Credit: Experience Nomad

NoMad Recommendations: 

  • The Ace Hotel: This trendy hotel is a favorite among young travelers.
  • The Flatiron Room: Enjoy live jazz and a wide selection of whiskeys at this stylish bar that captures a classic New York speakeasy ambiance.
  • The Rizzoli Bookstore: This beautifully designed bookstore is not just for book lovers but also for those who appreciate architecture and design.
  • Fotografiska Museum NYC: Photo exhibitions showcased in a historic Renaissance Revival-style gallery, featuring a cocktail bar.
  • The Evelyn Hotel: Located in a 1903 building, this upscale hotel features sophisticated Art Nouveau decor. Stop by their cocktail & Oyster Bar, The Tusk Bar.
  • Poster House: Oddball museum for poster lovers. They offer free admission every first Friday of the month.
  • The Ivory Peacock: A stylish cocktail spot in Manhattan, boasting the largest gin selection in the US. Enjoy specialty drinks from three bars, plus fine wines, champagnes, and beers. The Executive Chef, Grayson Altenberg, curates delicious, shareable bar food.

Photo Credit: The Vendry

Join our Nomad & Flatiron Architecture & Food Tour

Our Nomad & Flatiron Architecture & Food Tour is a great way to experience the best of NoMad and Flatiron. On this tour, you’ll learn about the history and architecture of the neighborhood, while sampling some of the best food that NoMad has to offer. Feel transported to the Gilded Age as your guide tells the stories of NYC’s most iconic players, while finding fresh perspectives in the up & coming areas of the neighborhood. 

If you’re looking for a trendy and exciting place to visit in New York City, NoMad is definitely worth checking out. With its central location, beautiful architecture, and thriving food and nightlife scene, NoMad is sure to please.

a group of people standing on a city street

Photo Credit: Like a Local Tours

Previous Post Next Post