I love enjoying some Amazing Vietnamese food at this place before heading out to the different bars around Jefferson on L. The restaurant is just behind Elsewhere so you have a nice mix of things to do if you start your night here.

Printed Matter—organizer of the NY and LA Art Book Fairs—is a non-profit supporting the work of artists and independent publishers through the circulation of their books. At their store in Chelsea, you can shop an insanely diverse selection of artists’ books, zines, posters, and more. They’re also always hosting awesome in-store exhibitions and events, from book launches and talks to lectures and performances.

Otherwild carries a little bit of everything: small-batch beauty products, artist-made ceramics, witchy necessities like incense and sage, punchy graphic tees, and everyone’s favorite feminist activity book: The Cunt Coloring Book. The LES shop is a great place to find unique gifts, but it also bills itself as a community gathering place.

A non-collecting arts institution that fosters experimentation and dialogue through exhibitions, public programs, and artist residencies.

Every seat is a good seat in this small, intimate theater dedicated to dance. Nearly every dance company has filtered through the theater and with a season that lasts about 45 weeks, there's always a performance to see and tickets are very reasonably priced. I prefer a performance at The Joyce then at Lincoln Center any day.