Stuyvesant

Designed as a haven for weary World War II veterans, Stuyvesant Town-Peter Cooper Village has kept its quality as a refuge from the common chaos of city life. Locally known as StuyTown-PCV, the 80-acre private riverfront development in East Manhattan is all high-rise apartments overlooking the East River. “The acreage of green space is very distinct and particular to StuyTown, especially in the concrete jungle of New York City,” says real estate broker Frank Gonzalez of Loisaida Realty.

Although it's one community, there are distinguishing features for its two subsections. Originally, StuyTown was built for soldiers, while PCV was designed for military officers. Hearkening back to these origins, PCV apartments have more space, higher ceilings and roomier kitchens than those in StuyTown. But all StuyTown-PCV apartments are typically larger than the average Manhattan apartment. Though most units are rented, select condos are available and typically range between $675,000 and $1.2 million. “I tell clients that are new to the city that StuyTown is the first place they should look into because it’s overall the best deal with all the amenities included and a fairly large size,” says Gonzalez, who was born and raised in New York City. “It’s a great neighborhood for people to start in before continuing their journey to other neighborhoods.”

The recreational and green spaces scattered across the community create a uniquely suburban feel within New York City. Trees throughout the community keep locals cool in the summer months, and residents walk canine companions along the shaded pathways. The Yoshino cherry trees throughout PCV make a particularly stunning display when they bloom each spring. Take in the scenery along Stuyvesant Cove Park, a riverside respite featuring lush gardens of native plants. Basketball, volleyball and pickleball courts, as well as the complex’s fitness centers, are heavily used, and children enjoy the many playgrounds in the various parks scattered across the corner neighborhood. There is also an ice rink and roller hockey rink. At the StuyTown Community Center, folks can participate in regular events such as game nights, yoga sessions, a book club and Friday night movies. “StuyTown is a very family-oriented community with a lot of family activities and holiday events,” Gonzalez says, adding that the seasonal flea market is particularly popular.

Restaurants, bars and cafes line First Avenue on the community's west side. Start the day with a bagel and coffee at Ess-a-Bagel or indulge in freshly baked French pastries at Bread Story, just half a block away. Try the many ethnic options, including Japanese specials at Hane Sushi and handmade Italian pasta at Rosemary East. Five Stuy Café is in the heart of StuyTown and has been a neighborhood staple since 2016. Additionally, a host of restaurants await next door in Gramercy Park.

Other everyday services are provided at businesses along First Avenue, including health clinics, pharmacies, veterinarians and salons. Trader Joe’s on East 14th Street is the closest supermarket, with additional stores and grocers like Target and CTown Supermarkets nearby.

Neighborhood children are zoned for District 2 and have several options in neighboring Gramercy Park, including PS 40 Augustus Saint-Gaudens for elementary school and Simon Baruch Middle School 104. Both schools have an A overall rating from Niche. At A-plus ranked NYC Lab School for Collaborative Studies, students focus on diversity and inclusion through social and emotional learning.

StuyTown is served by the L train at First Avenue and 14th Street and is conveniently located near many bus stations. A short taxi ride via FDR Drive connects residents to the north and east.

Written By

Kana Awoyemi

Photography Contributed By

Amanda Kirkpatrick

Video By

Tyler Newbold