West 47 St, Times Square

West 47th has a couple of noteworthy things and some beautiful buildings, so despite the fact that it's tourist hell, the street is alright. There's an offshoot of a really famous bakery, Sullivan Street Bakery, at 47th and 12th. It's far less crowded than the original and equally delicious. Just up the street, at 10th, there are some really beautiful brownstones that all have the original facades from the 1860's. They're not worth a trip over here, but if you are in the area, they are lovely to take a look at. The New Yorker was started at 412 West 47th. There's a really famous synagogue at 9th avenue called the Actor's Temple. It's not strictly for Actors, but so many went there through the 50's that the moniker stuck.
Speaking of actors, one of the most famous theatres in the city is between 8th and Broadway: The Barrymore Theatre. Ethel Barrymore performed at the first four shows, Marlon Brando did Streetcar, and Poitier did Raisin in the Sun. It's a really cool theatre and I wish that they still had that quality of shows there. And, across the street is the famous Edison Hotel. George Burns and Jack Benny lived here. The cafe on the ground floor is famous for its Magic Table: a table where magicians gather to show each other new tricks.
Up at 6th avenue, the world famous Diamond District commences. This is one of the biggest diamond trading areas in the world and it is still kind of unreal. Diamond Co is the best one with the best prices if you come to New York strictly for baubles.
West 47th is a really eclectic street and still has a lot of old New York. I just wish it wasn't around Times Square because there are so many tourists, dirt and chain restaurants. Oh well . . . .