New York City’s Soho neighborhood was transformed by artists over the last four decades into a cultural mecca for artists. Large loft apartments gave artists the space they sought for their work, and served as a creative forum for carving out residential housing in what were once factories and commercial lofts.

There are still many art galleries in Soho. While many of the galleries listed below have been in Soho for decades, the transformation of galleries and formerly commercial space into residential lofts for condos, co-ops, and rental buildings prompted many NYC art galleries to relocate from Soho to other neighborhoods like Chelsea.

A leisurely stroll through Soho’s art galleries is still a wonderful way to spend an afternoon in New York City, transporting yourself from the city’s hectic pace to a world of artful tranquility and creative designs.