The East Village has a very distinct personality when compared to the rest of NYC. From gritty to trendy, historic to brand new, the neighborhood has it all, but has managed to keep a pretty indie atmosphere. The neighborhood boasts a high concentration of community gardens, street art, second-hand stores and natural food stores. The area is quite popular with artists, musicians, students and writers. With plenty of bars and eateries, the East Village nightlife has plenty to offer visitors and locals alike. Everything from dive bars to beer halls to upscale lounges can all be found within walking distance. While historic prewar buildings provide an old-fashioned charm to the area, a growing number of upscale apartments and condominiums have risen among these classic buildings.