visit greenwich village nyc

The 19 Best Things to Do in Greenwich Village NYC

The ultimate greenwich village guide.

NYC has so many neighborhoods that are truly unique in their own way. One of those neighborhoods is Greenwich Village or as New Yorkers call it, “The Village.” We just want to point out real quick that there has been some confusion about where the West Village is in comparison to Greenwich Village.

You'll also love this:

The best hotels in greenwich village nyc.

• The Best Greenwich Village Restaurants NYC
• The Best Greenwich Village Bars NYC

There are different opinions about Greenwich Village and the West Village : some say the West Village is part of Greenwich Village – others think both have enough differences to be considered neighborhoods in their own way.

No matter which side you take, the wonderful little bars, restaurants and parks are the same. So here you’ll find all of our favorites that, for us, make up the charm of Greenwich Village. This guide will point out exactly where to go and what to see!

By the way: you’ll find many more New York City spots in our Loving New York travel guides .

Skyscrapers are non-existent in Greenwich Village. Instead of expensive apartments in skyscrapers, there are expensive residential units within the neighborhood. Many of the brownstones and townhouses date all the way beginning of the 19th century and are now privately owned by many wealthy New Yorkers. Also, another notable thing you should take note is that the narrow streets have names and do not contain any numbers like anywhere else in Manhattan.

Table of Contents

My TOP 5 Things To Do in Greenwich Village

There are a lot of things to do in Greenwich Village, so we’ve narrowed down our top 5 just in case your time is limited. Below this list, we’ll explain other places that you should visit within the neighborhood.

• Spend Some Time in Washington Square Park:   Washington Square Park is gorgeous. You’ll see the Washington Square Arch which is a replica of the arch in Paris. It’s an iconic location and is one of NYC’s go-to spots. It’s not just the arch that attracts tourists there. There are always events going on in the area as well.
• Gay Street: have a look at New Yorks smallest Street
• MacDougal Street:  Foodies, make your way to this street if you’re ever in Greenwich Village. This street is loaded with bars and restaurants. It’s also a historic street as well.
• IFC Center:   This theater screens independent movies. Once you see this center, you know you’re in the neighborhood. It’s a pretty unique experience and definitely one of the things to do in Greenwich Village.
• Fat Cat:  If you love jazz, then the Fat Cat is the place to be. Here you can enjoy drinks, live music, a ping-pong table and it’s a great place to meet with friends.

Where is Greenwich Village located?

The Greenwich Village is the part of Downtown Manhattan and is bounded on the north by 14th Street and Union Square (where the Gramercy and Chelsea begin). 7th Avenue marks the western border and Broadway and 4th Ave mark the eastern border (where NoHo and the East Village begin).

How to Get to Greenwich Village

• Subway:  Take the  N Q R W  trains to 8 Street Station, or 4 5 6   L N Q R W  to 14 St. – Union Square. If you’re coming from New Jersey, we think you have the best stops. There are three stops on the PATH train that go through Greenwich Village. Those stops are 14th Street station, 9th Street station and Christopher Street station.
• Hop on Hop Off Bus : Stop 6 of the downtown loop of BIG BUS or stop 7 and/or 8 of the downtown loop of Gray Line Sightseeing. Here you find more about Hop on Hop off in NYC . My tip: the tickets for the buses are included in many of the New York City passes – which one is the best for you, you can see in my Pass Comparison for New York !

🥇 Look no further: That‘s the only New York Travel Guide you need (300+ pages and 700+ reviews on Amazon)

Check out our preview here .

The 19 Best Things To Do in Greenwich Village NYC

It’s a historic neighborhood and very trendy as well. There are a lot of activities that are constantly happening and there are many restaurants, bars and cafes. Greenwich Village has so much to offer which includes the smallest street in New York City. The name of the street is “Gay Street” and is located near the Gay Liberation Monument in Christopher Park and very well known in the Village.

Christopher Street in 1960 was the center of the LGBT movement and is a symbol and functions today . On Christopher Street, the Stonewall Uprising took place on June 28, 1969 at the Stonewall Inn Bar, an important event for the movement.

Every summer there’s an LGBT rights demonstration and has become a tradition. New York’s Gay Pride Week takes place in June every year, and then everything around Christopher Street is decorated. Christopher Street is a vibrant street that is well worth the visit.

Here are some more things that you can explore if you have more time:

Very close to the Stonewall Inn – one of the most important spots of the LGBT scene – stands this colorful street sign since 2019. For a short time, the street was even renamed as part of an art installation, Acceptance Street. You’ll find it at the corner of Gay Street and Christopher Street.

Gay Pride Week & Christopher Street Parade

The New York Gay Pride is one of the oldest parades for gays from all over the world. The beautiful Greenwich Village has been hosting it every year since 1970. Especially Christopher Street is colorfully decorated and you can find the famous rainbow flags everywhere. Also the global company Google decorates its outer facade at this time and shows tolerance. The parade taking place at the end of June is one of the biggest parades in New York. It leads along 5th Avenue to Greenwich Street.

High Line Park and Greenwich Village Food Tour

This walking tour through Greenwich Village and Chelsea is one of the best food tours New York City has to offer! Because in this part of the city there are many wonderful little food spots that you must discover. 

In addition, you will learn many exciting anecdotes about the High Line, which connects the Hudson Yards with the Meatpacking District. This former elevated railway line was saved from demolition due to an initiative and is now one of the most popular sights in New York. All the more reason to book this awesome walking tour!

Comedy Cellar

The Comedy Cellar is a Manhattan comedy club where many of New York’s top comedians perform. It was founded in 1982 by the then stand-up comedian and the current TV writer and producer, Bill Grundfest. A show consists of five to seven comics, each lasting about 20 minutes. The club isn’t just exclusive to two New Yorkers. Notable comedians have also performed here such as Chris Rock, Dave Chapelle, Kevin Hart and Aziz Ansari.

On the weekends, it can get pretty busy. A visit to the Comedy Cellar is an insider tip for anyone who wants to feel like a true New Yorker and is one of the best things to do in Greenwich Village . 

The Stone Wall Inn: Have a drink is this historic gay bar

The Stonewall Inn located in the West Village/Greenwich Village neighborhood in NYC is a gay bar and recreational tavern. But, it’s just not an ordinary bar. The place is a National Historic Landmark and was the site of the 1969 riots that focused on the relationship between the police and the LGBTQ community. This jump-started the gay rights movement that we see today and has made a lasting impact. 

Spend Some Time in Washington Square Park

Washington Square Park, centrally located in the Village, extends over almost 4 hectares. Close to New York University with its distinctive Washington Square Arch, a triumphal arch inaugurated in 1895, the park is a popular place to be when the weather is fine. Through the Arch you have a wonderful view along 5th Avenue to the top of the Empire State Building. 

If you are lucky, you can even enjoy a free jazz concert from the many jazz artists of the Village. Here, friends and family meet to relax, play chess, or just in general have a good time.

Listen to jazz in Village Vanguard

The Village Vanguard is located at Seventh Ave South in the West Village. It was first opened by Max Gordon in 1935, making it New York City’s oldest operating jazz club. Though, many people didn’t realize that this venue actually hosted beat poetry and folk music until 1957, when it became a home for jazz music. Even the legends John Coltrane and Miles Davis played here.

2-Hour Cupcake Tour of Greenwich Village

If you’re into sweets and desserts you should try the famous Cupcake Tour. Sample colorful cupcakes at boutique bake shops, and build your own custom cupcake during this 2-hour tour in Greenwich Village. New York clearly has the best cupcakes and this will be the chance to try the best of them.

Washington Mews: Head to the historic small street at Washington Square Park

Washington Mews is a very small street just one block from Washington Square park. There are many historic houses with cobblestones in front – it shows how old New York once looked like here. 

For photographers this is a real insider tip!

Dante NYC: Have a Negroni on Tap (!)

When it comes to the best Negroni in town, there is hardly a way around Dante NYC. They are an institution in New York and have been serving their Negroni since 1915 (it’s an Italian restaurant with a small bar). You find it at the corner of Greenwich Village, SoHo and Hudson Square – here we are super-often when we are on the road in New York.

West Fourth Street Courts: Watch the local play basketball

If you’re out of the basketball season and still want to see some real action, we recommend you play street basketball on the West Fourth Street Courts. We haven’t seen such an intense game in a long time – and the spectators went really well!

Rubin Museum of Arts

For three decades, New Yorkers Shelley and Donald Rubin have been collecting Buddhist art, mandalas and meditation images here. The exhibitions of contemporary Asian artists are very impressive.

Recommended: The very best museums in NYC

Watch independent movies at IFC Center

The IFC Center is a theater screens independent movies. Once you see this center, you know you’re in the neighborhood. It’s a pretty unique experience and definitely one of the things to do in Greenwich Village.

DOMODOMO: Have one of the best Sushi in Town

The DOMODOMO in Jersey City is a restaurant inspired by Japanese cuisine – super yummy!

Jefferson Market Courthouse

The Jefferson Market Courthouse is located in Greenwich Village and in 1880, the building itself and was dubbed one of the most beautiful buildings in the United States. This Gothic building was built in 1874-1877 by the architects Frederick Clark Withers and Calvert Vaux. The building was a courthouse until 1945 and now you can come here to borrow books.

The Smallest Street in New York: Gay Street

The Gay Street in the West Village in Manhattan is with its length of 85 m one of the shortest streets in New York City and is located near the Gay Liberation Monument in Christopher Park. The name of the street does not actually come from the LGBT movement, but probably from a colonial era landowner living there.

Head over to the Union Square Green Market (to buy local honey!)

The Union Square Greenmarket in Manhattan is home to numerous local vendors where you can purchase fresh produce, meats and seafoods.

Rosemary's: Have a romantic dinner in one of our favorite restaurants

Rosemary’s is a small fine Italian restaurant in the heart of Greenwich Village with a sensational selection of dishes. Whether you come here for breakfast, lunch or dinner. The kitchen crew knows their craft – the homemade pasta is a dream (gluten-free on request). By the way, the fresh herbs come from our own herb garden, which is laid out on the roof.

Grey Art Gallery NYU

This is New York University’s fine art museum in Greenwich Village . It is right on Washington Square Park therefore making it a great location to visit. The museum puts on exhibitions about human culture where they acquire and preserve different artifacts that pertain to that specific subject.

Best Attractions in Greenwich Village NYC

Many of New York’s major New York attractions  are located in walking distance of Greenwich so make sure to add them to you travel itinerary.

These are the best places to visit in Greenwich Village NYC:

01 Washington Square Arch

One of the many structures created by one of NYC’s best-known Beaux Arts architectural firms, McKim, Mead & White, is the Washington Square Arch in the West Village.

This was designed in 1891 to honor the 100th anniversary of George Washington’s inauguration and forms the southern end of 5th Avenue. George Washington is immortalized on it with two sculptures at once: one showing him at peace, one during war.

Many details will remind you of Roman triumphal arches, this was also the inspiration of the architect Stanford White. The very high-quality Tuckahoe marble, which comes from the town of the same name in New York State, served as the building material.

02 Bleecker Street

Bleecker Street is a pleasant change from the turbulent Herald Square or 5th Avenue. It is considered one of the best shopping streets in the world. Why? There are many small and hip designer stores, record stores and second hand stores and lesser known retail brands.

03 Comedy Cellar

04 film forum.

The Film Forum in SoHo/Greenwich Village is a non-profit theater that’s known for showing independent flicks. If you’re a big movie person, this place is for you. The theater opened in 1970 and is an iconic spot.

05 Films on the Green

Films on the Green is a free outdoor French film festival, that takes place from May 31 to September 6 in the parks in Manhattan and Brooklyn. This year, the festival features 11 captivating films celebrating the excitement, competition, and triumphs of sports.

The lineup includes diverse sports films, from adrenaline-pumping boxing matches to the graceful strokes of artistic swimming, appealing to audiences of all ages.

Discover the resilience of real-life soccer legends, or immerse yourself in the high-stakes world of championship tournaments like the Tour de France.

06 Gay Street

The Gay Street in the West Village in Manhattan is with its length of 85 m one of the shortest streets in New York City and is located near the Gay Liberation Monument in Christopher Park. The name of the street does not actually come from the LGBT movement, but probably from a colonial era landowner living there. 

07 IFC Center

08 jefferson market courthouse, 09 lgbt-sign.

10 The Players Theatre

The Players Theatre in New York City is a historic and multifaceted performing arts venue nestled in the heart of Greenwich Village. Constructed in 1907, this architectural gem was transformed into a theater in the late 1950s, becoming a cultural cornerstone in the neighborhood. Its rich history and versatility have made it a magnet for performing artists and theater enthusiasts alike.

The theater complex offers a diverse range of spaces, including a main stage with over 200 seats for Off-Broadway productions, the intimate Steve and Marie Sgouros theater with 50 seats, four well-appointed rehearsal studios, an office suite tailored for arts organizations, and the iconic Cafe Wha?. The latter has been a beloved fixture in Greenwich Village since the 1960s, adding to the vibrant atmosphere of the venue. Whether you’re attending a captivating performance, taking part in rehearsals, or enjoying a meal at Cafe Wha?, the Players Theatre continues to be a cultural hub in this historic neighborhood.

11 Titanic - The Exhibition

There is a very special exhibition for all fans of the movie Titanic in New York: Titanic – The Exhibition offers not only replicas of the ship’s interior, but it also takes you back in time with the help of original belongings of the passengers.

You have the opportunity to go on a journey through time in the beautiful Greenwich Village. Titanic – The Exhibition is a very special experience for anyone interested in the history of the ocean liner. With photos and personal items, you’ll be taken back to 1912, when the Titanic set sail on its first and last ocean voyage. While an audio guide provides you with reports from survivors, you can take a closer look at the recreated interiors and let the differences between a luxurious first-class suite and a simple third-class cabin sink in.

This exhibit is on in New York City through the end of February and is a must-see for all fans of the ship once considered unsinkable.

12 Washington Mews

Many of the attractions and tours of the West Village and the surrounding neighborhoods are included in one of the New York City passes. So you can easily and quickly save up to 70% – how does it work?

You can see that in my ultimate 👉   New York Pass comparison , here you can see my personal 👉   New York Pass Reviews after more than 20 visits to New York and our free New York Pass Advisor answers the question: “ Which New York Pass is the best? ”

Compare New York Passes

Best Guided Tours in Greenwich Village

The Village offers plenty of excellent restaurants. The bests chefs from all over the world come here to create their best dishes for the locals. We have tried the Food Tour of Greenwich Village  that takes you through various eras of dining and shopping  in Greenwich Village and is worth trying.

These are our TOP Greenwich Village Walking Tours that we can highly recommend:

01 Gangsters and Ghosts Tour in NYC

Immerse yourself in the rich history of New York City with an intriguing Gangsters and Ghosts walking tour. Join your guide for a unique journey into the city’s past, exploring its infamous crimes, notorious gangsters, clandestine deals, and haunted structures. Meander through a variety of downtown neighborhoods, including Little Italy, Chinatown, and the West Village, as you soak up chilling tales of spirits and mobsters. Experience downtown Manhattan’s history on this one-of-a-kind tour, gain insightful knowledge about local history from your guide, and explore several neighborhoods all in one fascinating journey.

02 2-Hour Cupcake Tour of Greenwich Village

03 Ghost Tour of Greenwich Village NYC

Greenwich Village is for me one of the most beautiful neighborhoods of New York and has a lot to offer. But it also has a haunted side in stories, which will be shown to you on this walking tour. This ghost tour through Greenwich Village is full of spooky tales of lost children, phantoms and celebrity ghosts – and not only at Halloween a popular tour. 

Along the way, you’ll learn many interesting anecdotes as you stroll through Washington Square Park, West 10th Street and the campus of New York University. The Greenwich Village Ghost Tour is a real highlight!

04 Ghosts of Greenwich Village: 2-Hour Private Walking Tour

Do you like stories about ghosts? Then this private haunted tour of Greenwich Village in the evening is a great option! In two hours, you’ll hear lots of haunted stories about people who have suddenly disappeared or are haunted around Washington Square Park and New York University. And of course: also a lot about this beautiful neighborhood of NYC!

05 Greenwich Village Pizza Walk

Pizza and New York simply belong together! Next to the famous Brooklyn Pizza Walking Tour, this tour through Greenwich Village and Little Italy is one of the most popular food tours in NYC. Included in the price are 3 slices of pizza from different stores and during the tour you will also learn a lot about these neighborhoods from a New York guide.

06 Greenwich Village Walking Tour

Greenwich Village has a reputation as a magnet for Bohemians and intellectuals. Generations of artists and writers have given the neighborhood its free-spirited identity. From Bleecker St. to MacDougal St. and Sheridan Square, this tour will show you some of the best sights in Greenwich Village and tell you the story behind them.

07 Manhattan Neighborhood Private Customized Walking Tour

You already have an idea of which neighborhoods and sights of New York you want to see? Then this walking tour is perfect for you, because you can create your individual route with your New York guide. 

Each of the many neighborhoods has its own charm and character, which is what makes New York so charming and interesting. Therefore, the right mix can show you the best picture of the city. Combine Times Square and Broadway with Greenwich Village and Soho, or schedule Greenwich Village or Chelsea with the High Line. The beauty of this private tour is that you set the schedule. If you particularly like a place, you can just stay longer!

With over 350 positive reviews, this private walking tour of NYC is one of the best!

If guided tours interest you, be sure to check out the Best Walking Tours NYC !

Get personal tips & tricks, specifically tailored to your trip!

We will provide you with individual tips & tricks as you prepare for your trip. How to plan, save money and make sure you experience the most of NYC are only some of the topics covered!

Specify dates

Best Greenwich Village Restaurants in NYC

These are our best places to eat in Greenwich Village NYC:

01 Carroll Place

Carroll Place on Bleecker Street has an exciting concept, as it’s both a gastropub and wine bar where you can enjoy Italian-inspired food. It’s one of our favorite spots when we go for brunch in New York. The atmosphere is relaxed, the vibe is always good and the food is delicious!

Our favorites have been the pizza with truffles and the Pasta Vongole. The fact that the pizza oven is wood fired gives the pizzas a taste like a pizza should have! By the way, next time try the Carroll Place Burger with Gorgonzola. This one looked mega delicious too!

My tip: if you want to go for brunch, be sure to reserve a table in advance!

02 Dante NYC

03 Beatnic West Village

Ok, the name can be a bit misleading, because the Beatnic West Village is actually located in Greenwich Village (the discussion about the neighborhoods and their exact boundaries is typical for New York 🙂 ). Anyway, Beatnic is a really popular vegan restaurant right on Bleecker Street.

It’s super-stylish, beautifully decorated and so delicious! And I say that, who likes everything around steaks, burgers and BBQ so much. Everything is freshly prepared, there are a wide variety of salads, sandwiches and burgers – all vegan, of course.  

Really colorful is the beet ketchup and the avocado pesto. My tip: try the guac burger and the magic mushroom salad. That alone is worth a visit!

New Yorkers love the restaurant, especially because of its authenticity. The Cuban music, Latin American interior, excellent mojitos and friendly Cuban staff make this restaurant a must-go. The cuisine is absolutely recommendable. Everything is to the point and it tastes great. My tip: the Churrasco. With it a good wine or a glass of sangria.

05 DOMODOMO NYC

Looking for more recommendations? We’ve got you covered! Here you find the Best West Village Restaurants in NYC .

Best Greenwich Village Bars in NYC

And these are my personal recommendations when it comes to bars in Alphabet City – you will love it!

The 55 Bar is a Prohibition-era dive bar that offers nightly funk, blues, and jazz performances in Greenwich Village. Essentially considered the gem of Greenwich, it’s been in business for over 100 years, but don’t let their tagline fool you – it’s not a place for swing or retro jazz. In fact, in recent years, this homey downstairs club has hosted some of the top innovative names from modern jazz. 

The 55 Bar charges a modest cover, but they book major talents, so the experience is well worth the cost. Some patrons even claim that this bar is among the best jazz venues in all of New York City. It’s been a longtime home for acts like Wayne Krantz, Mike Stern, and Sweet Georgia Brown. They offer live music every night of the year, and you can expect to hear something ranging from the blues or jazz to avant-garde varieties. 

02 Amelie Wine Bar

When Paris meets New York, such wonderful places like the Amelie wine bar in Washington Square Park are born. Fantastic wines and little treats are available here at affordable prices. Definitely one of our favorites in the city.

03 Amity Hall

Especially when the Carolina Panthers play, the atmosphere in Amity Hall is boiling! The bar is huge and the game is broadcast here on a 6 meter flatscreen and many other screens. Besides the classic Chicken Wings you can also get great burgers here.

04 Analogue

In the bar in the heart of Greenwich Village you can enjoy your drinks in a relaxed atmosphere. Live music is also played here from time to time.

05 Angel's Share

Angel’s Share is a speakeasy-style cocktail bar originally located in the East Village. The bar opened in 1993 and then became very popular around 2015. People would stand in line at the door and the waiting times became longer. After nearly 30 years in the East Village, Angel’s Share closed in early 2022.

In the meantime, the bar moved to a new location in the West Village. The re-opening took place in June 2023.

Best Greenwich Village Cafés in NYC

If you don’t want to necessarily dine-in, you can always check out some cafes. There are artisanal tea and coffee shops and bakeries throughout the neighborhood and are great places to visit for a quick break.

01 Banter NYC

The Banter NYC is one of the best and most popular spots for brunch in the Greenwich Village of New York and is also always high on my list. The espresso is super delicious, not to mention the breakfast.

02 Bluestone Lane West Village Coffee Shop

Bluestone Lane Coffee now has several locations in New York. The coffee is roasted by hand, is fairly traded and there are only 100% natural ingredients on the bagels and sandwiches. What you will immediately notice: the locations are really nicely decorated – definitely very cozy and unique!

03 Bus Stop Cafe

Bus Stop Cafe is one of our favorite breakfast spots in the West Village. It is a charming place and exactly what you call and expect as a typical American diner. Very authentic, friendly and therefore absolutely recommendable!

04 Caffe Reggio

In 1927, New Yorkers were sold their first cappuccino here. Not much has changed in the store since then. You should definitely try the homemade tiramisu – a treat!

05 Magnolia Bakery

The classic! Carrie and her girls have eaten delicious cupcakes here. An absolute must-do for Sex and the City fans and all those who can’t resist the sweet treat.

Best Hotels in Greenwich Village NYC

Staying in the Village has many advantages. You’ll always be surrounded by some of the best bars, restaurants, cafes, galleries and shops in NYC. If you decide to stay in the neighborhood please check out these amazing hotels.

01 The Marlton Hotel

4 stars | The Marlton Hotel is located in the heart of Greenwich Village – just one block from Washington Square Park. It is a beautiful bohemian-style boutique hotel and feels like a little part of Paris in the middle of New York City. 

The building, lobby and rooms have been lovingly restored and have a very special atmosphere. 

My tip: Book one of the rooms on the upper floors. They have a balcony from which you can look out over Washington Square Park!

02 Walker Hotel Greenwich Village

4 Stars | This boutique hotel is located in the heart of Greenwich Village (such a beautiful area) and offers everything you would expect from this kind of place: The interior design is very aesthetic and reminiscent of the roaring 20s. Small details, such as a retro telephone, adorn the rooms and just make the place quite special. Simply beautiful!

03 Washington Square Hotel 

3 Stars | The hotel is located directly at the beautiful Washington Square Park and scores with a spa and a great restaurant. You can expect chic rooms that are not lacking in the coziness department. A continental breakfast is included in the price.

Recommended article:  Our complete list of all recommended Hotels in Greenwich Village NYC and the  Best Hotels in NYC .

Shopping in Greenwich Village

Just like many neighborhoods in NYC, you won’t really find mainstream stores in this neighborhood. What you will find however are specialty boutiques and vintage stores. The price points are a little bit higher in this area. Stores like Star Struck Vintage Clothing and Brooklyn Industries are spread throughout the Village. If you’re into chocolate, the popular Jacques Torres Chocolate also has a store here. Come by the neighborhood and check out what they have to offer.

Neighborhoods Nearby

If you enjoyed Greenwich Village, then make your way to East Village , SoHo or even the Meatpacking District . Each one of these neighborhoods are different from each other but are also very close. The beauty of New York City is that each neighborhood has their own distinct character and vibe. Sometimes, you might not even feel like you’re in NYC anymore.

The 15 Best Restaurants in Greenwich Village Right Now

The 12 Best Bars in Greenwich Village Right Now

I'm a true New York fan! Not only have I visited the city over 25 times but also have I spent several months here at a time. On my blog I show you the best and most beautiful spots of the city, so that you have a really good time! You can also find lots of insider tips in our New York travel guide . Also check out my hotel finder for New York !

Get exclusive content, real insider tips, and the best deals in NYC for FREE!

Start of your trip: We will remind you with current events when you are in NYC!

15 Things to Do in Greenwich Village NYC (From a Local!)

Trying to figure out which things to do in Greenwich Village NYC but wishing you could get some local advice first?

You’re in the right place!

Using what I know as a life-long New Yorker, I’ve put together this guide to help you know what to do in Greenwich Village and how to make the most of your visit to this beloved New York City neighborhood.

15 Things to Do in Greenwich Village NYC

No trip to New York City is complete without some time in Greenwich Village.

Yes, iconic sights like the Statue of Liberty, Central Park, and the Empire State Building should be part of your NYC itinerary . But, if you want to experience New York City like a local, then head south to Greenwich Village. 

Where is Greenwich Village exactly? 

For starters, it’s in Manhattan. 😉

Specifically, the Village, as the locals like myself call it, is on the lower westside of Manhattan between 14th street to the north and Houston Street to the south. The neighborhood is bookended by the Hudson River to the west and Broadway to the east. These broad boundaries also include the West Village and the Meatpacking District.

For that reason, the best things to do in the West Village, for example, overlap with what to see in Greenwich Village.

Let’s get away from the towering skyscrapers of midtown and wander off the grid street pattern to discover the history, culture, and vibe of the Village.

1. Visit Washington Square Park.

At the heart of Greenwich Village sits one of New York City’s most beloved city parks. Rich with an abundance of history, no trip to New York City’s Greenwich Village is complete without a visit to Washington Square Park.

Compared to the 840-acre Central Park, Washington Square Park is tiny at just under 10 acres. It’s easy to walk the park from end to end as part of a Greenwich Village visit. However, size doesn’t define Washington Square Park and the impact it’s had not only on Greenwich Village but all of  New York City. 

On any given day, you’ll see artists, musicians, chess players, families, NYU students, poets, and pets all bringing the park to life.

The rectangle-shaped park is bordered by straightforward street names, Washington Square North, South, East, & West. But if you ask a local for directions, don’t be surprised if you hear different street names. We prefer to use popular Greenwich Village street names instead.

To the north is Waverly Place, the south is West 4th Street, to the east is University Place, and to the West is MacDougal Street. 

At the northern point of the park is the Washington Square Arch. The Arch was built in 1892 for the 100th anniversary of George Washington’s inauguration, which happened at Federal Hall in Lower Manhattan.

If you’re heading south on NYC’s famous Fifth Avenue, you’ll ultimately head right into the Washington Square Arch. 

This Greenwich Village park also has a fascinating history! Before there were park benches and dog runs, this area was fertile farmland surrounded by woodlands and a stream full of fish.

New York City grew outward from what is now Battery Park and the Financial District, and Greenwich Village was considered a rural retreat north of the city.

This made the land where Washington Square Park is today perfect for a potter’s field. Starting in the late 1790s, up to 20,000 bodies were buried here and are still resting in peace below the park’s soil.

Add this to the park’s legend of the Hangman’s Elm. “The Hanging Tree”  which still grows today, is believed to be the oldest tree in Manhattan at 300+ years old. 

If you’re looking for something spooky, try the  Ghosts of Greenwich Village tour . 

Depending on the time of year, you may see a crowd gathered at the park’s fountain. On hot summer days, it’s a popular spot to dip your feet and cool off.

But anytime is perfect for a stroll around the park to take in the Greenwich Village vibe. Along the way, stop to play a game of chess with a friendly stranger or take a seat with something to drink and enjoy the sights and sounds of this famous Greenwich Village park.

2. See the Friends Apartment Building.

For 10 seasons, the comedy sitcom  Friends  entertained millions of fans with endless laughs as we watched six twenty-something friends living in the big city, trying to make it through all that NYC life threw at them.

While the popular TV show was filmed on a Warner Brothers sound stage in Burbank, CA, Ross, Rachel, Monica, Chandler, Phoebe, and Joey lived in Greenwich Village and drank coffee at the cleverly named Central Perk.

Today, the building at 90 Bedford Street at the corner of Grove and Bedford Streets is still recognized as the Friends apartment building. The show famously showed exterior shots of the building before cutting to the action inside.

On most days, the corner of Bedford and Grove Streets in Greenwich Village is bustling with groups of people taking selfies and staring up at the mostly nondescript 6-story building that was completed in 1899.

You can’t enter the building but don’t be disappointed! After getting your photos, the best part is that you’ll find yourself on a beautiful Greenwich Village street where you can continue to meander through this fabulous neighborhood.

The closest subway stops to Bedford & Grove are Christopher Street from the 1 subway line and West 4th Street from the A, C, E, B, D, F, and M lines. It’s about a 5-minute walk from each station. 

You can also do a guided Greenwich Village Walking Tour which includes a stop outside this iconic building.

3. Walk along Bleecker Street.

Any visit to NYC’s Greenwich Village must include a walk along Bleecker Street. Not only is this one of the most popular areas in Greenwich Village, but it’s also one of the more famous streets in all of New York City. 

Back when the area was mostly farmland, the Bleecker family owned a farm that had a road that ran right through the land. That road would ultimately be given to the city and forever named Bleecker Street.  

Today, things are a  bit  different along Bleecker Street. Across several blocks, you’ll find the “Village” vibe in the restaurants, cafes, nightclubs, live music, and shopping along Bleecker Street.

The food scene on Bleecker Street has an incredibly rich history. In the late 1800s, there were just a couple of thousand Italians in all of New York City. By the early 1900s, over half the people living in Greenwich Village were Italians. 

Restaurants, cafes, bakeries, and butcher shops owned by Italians opened around Greenwich Village and dominated most of Bleecker Street.

Much of this influence is still felt today. Johns Pizza was established in 1929 and Ottomanelli and Sons Butcher Shop opened in 1900. As a first-generation Italian, this is a block that feels like home!

This  Lower Manhattan itinerary guide  has more about which stops to make for your own DIY food tour. 

Bleecker Street also has a legendary music scene. Simon & Garfunkel (who had a song called Bleecker Street), Bob Dylan, Miles Davis, & many more performed in the smoky venues along Bleecker Street.

Today, you can still pop into places like The Bitter End, The Red Lion, and Terra Blues to enjoy live music in a small venue…All without the smoke, of course!

Several subway lines access the area around Bleeker Street depending on where you’re coming from in Manhattan. The Christopher St. or W. 4th St stations mentioned above would land you just steps from Bleecker.

If you’re further east, take the 4 or 6 train to Bleecker Street or the B, D, F, or M trains to Broadway-Lafayette.

4. But, Don’t Miss MacDougal Street!

After strolling along Bleecker, head to MacDougal Street, which intersects Bleecker.

“I’ll meet you at Bleecker and MacDougal after work” has long been a common exchange by many New Yorkers looking to enjoy an evening out. You’ll know why seconds after walking onto the street. 

At just 6 blocks long, starting at Prince Street to the south and going to West 8th Street at the north, MacDougal Street somehow gets more classically Greenwich Village with each step.

Many of the storefronts have maintained their historical significance thanks to a Greenwich Village Historic District designation. MacDougal Alley is a perfect example of this. Just south of West 8th Street, this famous cul de sac served as stables for the neighborhood’s wealthy residents.

When these were converted into workshops at the turn of the century, artists like Jackson Pollack and Gertrude Vanderbilt Whitney (future founder of the Whitney Museum) would take residence.

Today, MacDougal Street’s history combines fun, food, laughs, and live music.  Cafe Wha  is an absolute blast. Get ready to rock out at this legendary live music spot where Jimi Hendrix, Bruce Springsteen, and Bob Dylan have played.

The Comedy Cellar (more on this in a moment) is perfect for some laughs. And, there’s no shortage of places to have some drinks and good eats.

Some of my favorite places include Minetta Tavern, Mermaid Oyster Bar, Mamoun’s Falafel, and Artichoke Pizza. (Do NOT leave MacDougal until you have an Artichoke slice!) 

5. Admire the Greenwich Village Architecture. 

If your time in New York City has been spent in midtown in and around main tourist attractions, you’re in for an architectural surprise in Greenwich Village. It’s one of the best things to see in Greenwich Village if you ask me.

The further south you go on the island of Manhattan, the older the neighborhoods get. On top of this, the island’s bedrock is much further down and harder to reach in Greenwich Village so tall skyscrapers are harder if not impossible to build here.

This adds up to brick-style homes and townhouses on narrow tree-lined streets, smaller apartment buildings, and historic buildings dating back to the late 1700s and early 1800s.

You can still see Federalist-style architecture as you stroll the Village streets. One of the best examples can be seen in Grove Court just off Grove Street (just steps from the Friends Apartment building).

The secluded court is set back from the street behind a wrought iron gate. But look through to admire the 6 red townhouses dating back to the mid-1800s. They’re exactly the type of buildings that give the Village its charm!

Before you leave Grove and Bedford Streets, take a look at 17 Grove Street, the oldest wooden house in Manhattan dating back to 1822. Or check out 75 1/2 Bedford Street, the narrowest house in the Village lived in by many notable figures like Cary Grant!

Along Washington Square North, you can admire the Greek Revival townhouses known as “The Row” built in the mid-1800s. Many still have their original iron fences and stone stoops. In the 1800s, the townhouses were home to the social elite but today most of them are owned by NYU.

Houses aren’t the only notable architecture either. Jefferson Market Courthouse, which is now the Jefferson Market Library, was in the 1870s in the Venetian Gothic style. Today, it’s a National Historic Landmark in plain sight at 425 6th ave. 

These are just snippets of noteworthy architecture in Greenwich Village. You can wander the neighborhood to discover more or  join a guided walking tour of Greenwich Village .

6. Discover (So Much!) History in Greenwich Village!

Historic Greenwich Village doesn’t seem to do the neighborhood justice. So much U.S. and New York City history has happened here.

400 years ago the colony of New Amsterdam (not yet New York) sat in a small area between City Hall and Battery Park, at the southern tip of Manhattan. 

The area to the north (and what would ultimately become Greenwich Village) was considered a country escape from the craziness taking place 2 miles south. Even for a life-long local, this is fascinating and hard to believe.

It wasn’t until the 18th century that the population of what is now Greenwich Village started to grow. And in the 20th century, it became a mecca for bohemians, artists, musicians, poets, and writers.

As you stroll the Village streets, you’re walking in the footsteps of Edgar Allen Poe, Eugene O’Neill, Bob Dylan, Eleanor Roosevelt, Robert De Niro, and Lady Gaga. Countless celebrities have lived (and still live) in these apartments, performed in Village music halls and theaters, and wined and dined at these bars and restaurants. 

As a local, I’ve had the majority of my celebrity sights in Greenwich Village. It’s also my favorite area to  join a guided walking tour . Each street is full of history just waiting to be uncovered.

7. Have a Night Out at Fat Cat Jazz.

Fat Cat Jazz is an institution, with entertainment that’ll make a night in Greenwich Village unforgettable. The atmosphere here has something for everyone. This draws a wonderfully diverse crowd, which is exactly what you’d expect in a Village bar. 

The music jams nightly and it’s an eclectic mix ranging from live jazz to classical. The music is only the start of the fun. The Fat Cat Jazz bar is a hub for gaming fun, too. Enjoy the music and play anything from billiards, ping pong, shuffleboard, foosball, chess, checkers, or scrabble.

Fat Cat Jazz is great for its size, too! It’s big for Manhattan. I never have to wait to play any of the games. It’s perfect if you’re looking for a fun night out or celebrating a birthday with friends.

If you prefer one of the more traditional jazz clubs in Greenwich Village (no games), you can’t go wrong at the Blue Note.  

8. Catch a Flick at the IFC Center.

Of all the cinemas in Greenwich Village, the IFC Center is an art-house staple and where to go to watch independent and foreign films, as well as documentaries.

This now 5-screen theater was where the midnight Rocky Horror Picture Show showings first became popular. The audience actively participated alongside the parody of horror and comedy by wearing costumes and yelling at the screen all in good fun! 

Today, the theater hosts a documentary festival, midnight showings of cult favorites, short films, and a weekend classics series. If you’re from out-of-town and you’ve been hoping to see a movie other than the latest blockbusters, check out the IFC Center schedule.

9. Don’t Miss Shopping in Greenwich Village.

When you think of shopping in NYC, it’s only natural that 5th Avenue or Soho comes to mind. But, Greenwich Village shopping brings all the diversity you’d expect in this neighborhood. 

Looking for vintage books and vinyl records? Head to Mercer Street Books & Records. 

Need to add to your vintage clothing collection? Hamlets Vintage on West 4th Street and Vintage Thrift West on West 10th Street have you covered. 

New guitar? Scandinavian candy? Rubber Stamps? Check, check, and check. Greenwich Village makes for an eclectic shopping afternoon.

Want to go more upscale? Boutiques along Bleecker sell pieces by Ralph Lauren, Marc Jacobs, and others.

There isn’t a more walkable neighborhood in all of New York City. Shops are nestled into all the neighborhood’s nooks. The charm is in the exploration and the unplanned.

10. Sing Your Heart Out at Marie’s Crisis Cabaret Bar.

If you’re a fan of Broadway music, having fun, and looking for an authentic Village experience, then this is the place for you. It’s almost impossible to not have fun here! 

Marie’s Crisis has a quintessential dive bar interior complete with plenty of drinks a-flowing! It gets crowded on the weekend so if this is at the top of your Greenwich Village nightlife list better to arrive on the earlier side to make sure you get in.

A piano sits at the center of the room where a pianist churns out Broadway favorites and everyone in the room sings their hearts out! Have I mentioned how fun this place is??

Like many other iconic locations in the Village, the building where Marie’s Crisis is today has an alluring history. Revolutionary War activist and author Thomas Paine died in this location. And, in the mid-1800s, the building was used as a lair for the world’s oldest profession (as their website claims).

ProTip: Want to plan a fun night out in Greenwich Village? Marie’s Crisis is less than 5 minutes away from Fat Cat’s on foot. So after a meal on Bleecker or MacDougal, head over to Fat Cat’s & Marie’s Crisis for an unforgettable night of good times!

11. Eat at the Many Amazing Greenwich Village Restaurants!

Whether it’s your  first time in New York City  or your 5th, avoid eating anywhere near Times Square. The restaurants are touristy and overpriced. Instead, head to Greenwich Village for a more local eating experience.

My challenge here is the food in Greenwich Village is too delicious that it’s hard to choose what to list! Keep in mind, I’m not a food critic, but just an NYer who loves to eat.

The food variety in Greenwich Village ranges from the dive bar with great wings to posh and upscale. Here are some of my faves. 

Best Italian Restaurant in Greenwich Village?

Don’t miss Il Mulino, Lupa, Carbone, Morandi, or Babbo

Best Pizza in Greenwich Village?

Check out Bleecker Street Pizza, John’s Pizza,  Joe’s Pizza, and Artichoke Pizza. 

Best Brunch in Greenwich Village?

Try classic favorites like Cafe Cluny, Bluestone Lane, or the hip vibe at Shuka.

Best Sushi in Greenwich Village?  

I go to one place for sushi in the Village,   Tomoe Sushi.  You might be waiting for a bit but it’s worth it. 

Best Bakeries in Greenwich Village?

Mille-Feuille Bakery, Magnolia Bakery…or a complete  Greenwich Village Cupcake tour !

Best Wings in Greenwich Village? 

Get the atomic wings at  Down The Hatch  on West 4th. 

Best Cafes in Greenwich Village?

Cafe Reggio on Bleecker is perfect for a cappuccino and a cannoli. The Olive Tree Cafe is a fun place to eat (chalkboard top tables…need I say more) with Mediterranean dishes.

Still looking for the Best Restaurant in Greenwich Village??

A few others I l-o-v-e and can’t  NOT  mention…

The Mermaid Oyster Bar and Pearl Oyster Bar are fabulous casual-ish Village seafood spots.

Blue Hill and Perry Street are out of this world. 

Corner Bistro, Elephant and Castle, Murray’s Bagels are classic NYC eateries.

As I said, there are so many restaurants in Greenwich Village. It’s an absolute foodie paradise!

12. Watch an Off-Broadway Show.

With so many artists, poets, musicians, and creative minds calling Greenwich Village home, it makes sense the neighborhood would have a vibrant theater scene. Making it to Broadway has to start somewhere and typically it starts off-Broadway for many of today’s actors, directors, and playwrights.

Greenwich Village has smaller theaters tucked away that are more affordable than Broadway show tickets, not to mention more personal.

Depending on when you plan to visit NYC, check what’s playing at these downtown theaters.

Cherry Lane Theatre  

Lucille Lortel Theatre

Provincetown Playhouse

Rattlestick Playwrights Theater

Public Theater   (Honorable Mention – Slightly east of Greenwich Village but close!)

13. Catch a Glimpse of the Carrie Bradshaw Apartment.

Sex and the City is as New York City as New York City gets.

The popular HBO show ran from 1998 to 2004 and starred the iconic fictional character, Carrie Bradshaw. (As well as the most legendary rent-controlled apartment in NYC!)

In the show, Carrie lived at the fictional address 245 East 73rd Street. In reality, though, the famous exterior shots were filmed at 64 Perry Street in Greenwich Village. Not only is this building one of the most recognizable locations in the Village but it’s widely considered a top sightseeing spot in all of NYC.  

This Village tree-lined block will have you dreaming of living there! If you’re curious, the townhouse at 64 Perry Street has more the 4,000 square feet over 5 floors and last sold for $9.5 million!  

If you’re hoping to see more Sex and the City filming locations, this popular  On Location tour  is a must-do!  (Not to mention, they offer other fun NYC tours that cover popular TV and movie locations.)

14. Get Your Laughs in at the Comedy Cellar.

In the heart of Greenwich Village at 17 Macdougal Street between 3rd Street & Minetta Lane, the Comedy Cellar has been an epicenter of laughs since the 1980s. Many famous comedians have taken the stage here…and still do!

The Comedy Cellar doesn’t do headliners like a lot of clubs do. They’re known for showcases, which means 5-7 performers are doing about 15 minutes each with multiple shows a night. You never know who just might show up when you’re at the Comedy Cellar.

Big-time comedians often stop by to keep their comedic skills sharp with a surprise set. Before they take the stage, the stand-ups will often hang out at The Olive Tree Cafe which is a restaurant just above the club.  

15. Discover Greenwich Village on Foot.

What’s the best way to soak up the Village vibe? Just stroll! Touring Greenwich Village on foot is the way to go. You can even customize a Greenwich village tour to suit your interests.

Greenwich Village is fun, charming, and quirky. The best way to get a feel for this world-famous neighborhood is to immerse yourself in it.

Ditch the grid city layout and the organized numbered streets in midtown and upper Manhattan, and just get lost in Greenwich Village.

Roll with it. In the Village, you’re never too far from discovering a local-favorite cafe, a one-of-a-kind shop, a historic tavern, or your favorite movie star. 

How to Get to Greenwich Village

The subway to Greenwich Village is easy because there are a lot of options no matter where you’re coming from in the city.

The Christopher Street stop along the #1 train line and the W. 4th Street stop along the A, B, C, D, E, F, and M train lines brings you into the heart of Greenwich Village.

The A, C, E, #1, #2, and #3 subway lines also have a 14th Street Stop at the northern edge of the neighborhood. The L train’s 8th Avenue stop is also part of Greenwich Village.

The N, Q, R, and W trains stop at 8th Street along the Village’s eastern boundary. While the #1 and #2 trains also stop at Houston Street at the southern edge of Greenwich Village.

If you’d like to talk, it’s about a 40-minute walk to a central area in the Village from Times Square. A better option from midtown is to walk the High Line from 34th Street Hudson Yards to the end at Gansevoort Street. You’ll be just near the Whitney Museum of American Art and the far west side of the Village.

Searching for a hotel in Greenwich Village?

Where to stay in New York  is always the hardest part of planning an NYC trip. Greenwich Village is a great neighborhood to stay in, especially if you’re in search of that signature cool New York City vibe.

Is Greenwich Village safe to stay in? Absolutely! It’s a family-friendly area of the city. But also very active at night. So even on smaller streets, you’re not likely to ever be alone.

You can have a leafy, green neighborhood setting by day and great nightlife when the sun goes down. And because Greenwich Village is well-connected by subway, you’re never too far from the city’s popular sights in Midtown and downtown Manhattan. Here are a few popular Village hotels to get your search started.

• Walker Hotel Greenwich Village
• The Marlton Hotel
• Washington Square Hotel
• Gansevoort Meatpacking NYC

What would you like to do in Greenwich Village?

Like this post? Please share it on social media using the share buttons below.

Related Posts

How to Explore Lower Manhattan Like a Local

New York City Tips: 50 Dos & Don’ts for Visiting NYC Like a Pro

2 thoughts on “15 things to do in greenwich village nyc (from a local)”.

I have visited the village and love it. I will use your notes on my next visit.

Thanks for reading, Robert. Glad the article will be helpful!

Leave a Comment Cancel Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Privacy Overview

15 Best Things To Do In Greenwich Village, NYC

Greenwich Village is one of NYC's most popular neighborhoods and here's the best things to do, eat, and see in the area!

It can be said that Greenwich Village is New York City’s most cultural neighborhood , with history dating back to the city’s 1960s counterculture movement , it being an entertainment hub in the city , and a birthplace for LGBTQ+ activism . Bounded by 14th Street to the north, Broadway to the east, Houston Street to the south, and the Hudson River to the west, it’s situated right in the heart of Downtown and is truly the heartbeat to Lower Manhattan.

In this guide, we’re going to take you through some of our favorite things to do in Greenwich Village , including restaurants , bars , cool landmarks, and places to have a night out!

1. Washington Square Park

The crown jewel of Greenwich Village is Washington Square Park , one of NYC’s instantly recognizable parks and plazas. The iconic park truly the heart of Greenwich Village, and features a central fountain, tree-lined pathways, and the iconic Washington Square Arch! On any given day you can stop and read your book on a bench, situate a picnic in the grass, and even watch street performers. It’s NYC’s best in a nutshell.

2. The Stonewall Inn

Just steps away from the Stonewall National Monument , the birthplace of the modern LGBTQ+ rights movement, comes an equally historic spot, the Stonewall Inn. This gay bar has become a community staple over the years and proudly boasts itself as one of the most important LGBTQ+ [hangout] spots in the city.

Where: 53 Christopher St

3. The Red Lion

Looking for a classic NYC bar to drink at? Stop at The Red Lion which doubles as one of the best live music bars on most nights. This laid-back spot on Bleecker Street welcomes intimate live rock and blues music most nights and makes for an extremely fun night out.

Where: 151 Bleecker St

4. Village Vanguard

The Village Vanguard is an iconic jazz club which has been open since 1935 and showcased some of the genre’s most celebrated musicians and bands. Renowned for its intimate atmosphere and exceptional acoustics, the Village Vanguard continues to attract jazz enthusiasts from around the world to see a place where the likes of Miles Davis, Horace Silver and many more have performed.

Where: 178 7th Ave S

5. Shopping in Greenwich Village

Our little secret is that Greenwich Village may just be the best NYC neighborhood for shopping ! Bleecker Street, MacDougal Street, and Stoney Clover Lane are just some of the cute little strips where you can find an eclectic mix of trendy boutiques, vintage shops , and specialty stores.

6. Murray’s Cheese

For all of our cheese lovers out there, Murray’s Cheese is an iconic institution that you must check out. It’s been open since 1940, so you know their selection of artisinal cheeses, gourmet foods, charcuterie, and specialty items are world class. Not to mention, visitors can explore the store’s cheese caves, attend cheese classes and tastings, or simply indulge in a delicious sandwich or cheese plate at the Murray’s Cheese Bar .

Where: 254 Bleecker St

7. Joe’s Pizza

Greenwich Village is a hotbed of pizza places …but we’re here to spill the tea on the best pizza spot in Greenwich Village. It’s Joe’s Pizza. Founded in 1975 by Joe Pozzuoli, it’s been a neighborhood classic for over 74 years and serves arguably the best pies in the neighborhood. When you want “real New York pizza” you go to Joe’s.

Where: 7 Carmine St

8. W 4th Basketball Courts

The West 4th Street basketball courts are always packed with some of the best amateur basketball action whenever you walk by. “ The Cage ” (as many locals call it) is always full of gritty and intense pickup games that are so enjoyable to watch. Plus, there’s actually bleachers where you can actually take a seat and watch. It’s also home to the citywide “Streetball” amateur basketball tournament that happens every once in a while.

Where: 272 6th Ave

9. Comedy Cellar

Greenwich Village is the comedy club Mecca of NYC, with tons of stoic establishments lining the blocks of the neighborhood. If we had to recommend one though, it’d be Comedy Cellar, who’s famously seen the likes of Dave Chappelle, Amy Schumer, Kevin Hart, and plenty more take the stage. It’s truly on the Mount Rushmore of famous comedy clubs in the world.

10. Off-Broadway shows at Cherry Lane Theatre

Sure NYC may be full of high-class theatre productions, but don’t forget about more intimate Off-Broadway shows like the ones at Cherry Lane Theatre. This is the oldest continuously running off-Broadway theater in New York City and only features 179-seats at the main stage, making it one of the best places to see a show up close and personal.

Where: 38 Commerce St

11. Walker Hotel Greenwich Village

Walker Hotel is one of Greenwich Village’s most stunning hotels , and surely one of the best in New York City . Blending together the novelty of “Old New York” with today’s vibrant thriving culture, it’s a great spot to book, stay, or even grab a bite to eat. The bohemian charm and cozy lobby and common areas make it the perfect place to seek quietness for a few minutes!

Where: 52 W 13th St

12. The “Friends” Apartment

Calling all sitcom fans! Greenwich Village is home to the iconic residence of the characters from the popular TV show “Friends.” The building’s exterior is a popular hotspot for fans of the show to come snap photos and pay homage to Rachel, Ross, Chandler, and the rest of the crew!

Where: 90 Bedford St

13. Caffè Reggio

Start your morning off with a cup of coffee at Caffè Reggio, the home of the “Original Cappuccino.” This quaint coffee shop has been a Greenwich Village staple since 1927 , and serves up some of the best coffee and Italian cafe treats in all of NYC. Not only is the food and drink incredible but it’s full of history too… like the original espresso machine made in 1902 , a bench from a palazzo of the Rennaisance-era Medici family , and original Italian pantings .

Where: 119 MacDougal St

14. IFC Center

The IFC Center is one of NYC’s best independent movie theaters and film houses , dating all the way back to 1937. It’s home to 5 state-of-the-art cinemas with luxurious seating, Dolby Digital 5.1 surround sound, 3D capability, and 4K and 2K digital and 35mm projection . Their focus is on showcasing innovative and thought-provoking cinema , welcoming all sorts of independent films, classic retrospectives, film festivals, and special events, as well as filmmaker Q&A sessions and panel discussions . If you’re a cinephile at heart, you’ve got to check out this institution .

Where: 323 6th Ave

15. Greenwich Village walking tour

Greenwich Village is one of the most easily walkable neighborhoods in NYC . The beautiful cobblestone streets and lively crosswalks make it easy to navigate the historic neighborhood, making it one of the best places to take a walking tour ! Check out some of our favorite walking tours below which can help you see so much of the neighborhood in just a few hours:

• Greenwich Village Food Tour: Celebrating Culture & Diversity 
• Greenwich Village Small-Group Haunted Ghost Tour in NYC
• How Greenwich Village Made the Modern World
• The Original Cupcake Tour of Greenwich Village

TYPE IN YOUR SEARCH AND PRESS ENTER

16 Best Things to do in Greenwich Village NYC

By: Author Girl with the Passport

Posted on Last updated: November 30, 2023

Categories New York City

Ready to experience the charming cobblestone streets, secret gardens, vintage brownstones, delicious eateries, and vast green spaces that make up the Greenwich Village NYC ?

If so then this local’s guide to the 16 best things to do in Greenwich Village NYC will be PERFECT for you.

I mean, hi. I’m a 30+ year local who has visited Greenwich Village more times than I can count. Therefore, I’ve done all these Greenwich Village activities multiple times and can recommend them to you with 100% confidence.

So, if you want to get away from the tourist traps and want to get to know this neighborhood like a REAL New Yorker, then this is the post for you.

Because we’re about to swan dive into this insane list of Greenwich Village hidden gems right now!

Ready to experience all of the best vegan restaurants in NYC like a local? If so then you’ve come to the right place!

Because I’m a New York City local who has been a vegetarian – sometimes vegan – for the past 10+ years.

Therefore, I know all about some of the top vegan restaurants in New York City .

And I want to share all of my most secret insider tips with you so that you can quickly and easily experience all of the most iconic plant-based restaurants in the city that never sleeps.

So, step away from the guidebook and get ready to experience the best plant-based cuisine NYC has to offer.

This post may contain affiliate links. Please see my disclosure for more information. As an Amazon Associate, I earn a small commission from qualifying purchases.

How to Get to the Best Things to do in Greenwich Village NYC

If you want to experience all of the best things to do in Greenwich Village NYC, then first you need to get to this next-level gorgeous neighborhood.

After all, it sits on the West side of Manhattan and has 14th street to the north, Houston Street to the South, Broadway to the East, and the Hudson River to the West.

So, to do get here, just hop on the A/C/E trains of the Eighth Avenue Line, the B/D/F/M trains of the Sixth Avenue Line, or the 1/2/3trains of the Broadway-Seventh Avenue Line.

Once on the subway, you can get off at either 14th Street/Sixth Avenue, 14th Street/Eighth Avenue, West Fourth Street–Washington Square, or Christopher Street–Sheridan Square since all of those stations are in this area.

Where to Stay While Enjoying the Best Things to do in Greenwich Village NYC

Wondering where to stay in Greenwich Village ? If so then here are my picks for the best places to stay in Greenwich Village , regardless of your budget.

• Moxy NYC East Village (Mid-Range) – This chic, modern hotel is well-priced and just a 5-minute walk from the subway. Cozy rooms here also feature flatscreen TVs (with Netflix) and WiFi. Guests will also love a swank bar terraces and a fantastic, on-site Mediterranean Restaurant.
• Hotel Hugo (Mid-Range) – This beloved 4-star, boutique hotel offers visitors sweeping views of the Hudson River and features elegant rooms with old-world charm, hardwood floors, and contemporary art. In-room Keurig coffeemakers and flat-screen TVs are also a plus, as is access to a rooftop bar and an awesome Italian restaurant.
• The Marlton Hotel (Luxury) – This historic hotel is just 3-minutes from Washington Square Park and features deisgner rooms with chic moldings, stunning furniute, marble bathrooms, and awesome hardwood floors. Breakfast is also included and be sure to stop into the swank cocktail bar here before you leave.
• Walker Hotel Greenwich Village (Luxury) – A swank, red-brick hotel with stained glass windows and suave, art-deco rooms that feature ebony beds, and flat-screen TVs. Also stop by the retro bar and polished lounge with its gorgeous fireplace.

Best Things to do in Greenwich Village NYC

1. do a greenwich village ghost tour.

Looking to add something macabre to your list of the best things to do in Greenwich Village NYC ? If so then embark on this uber-rad ghost tour of Greenwich Village !

After all, this well-reviewed tour is just $35 per person and takes you on a two-hour walk through Greenwich Village after dark.

This way, you can learn all about some of the most haunted places in New York City as your expert, local guide regales you with bone-chilling tales about NYC’s gruesome past.

So, you’ll get to walk past top Greenwich Village attractions and learn all about:

• The Hanging Tree
• The now infamous Murder House (where 22 souls still take up residence)
• The horrific fire at the Brown Building
• The Church of the Ascensio which is still haunted by artist John Lafarge
• The immortal speakeasy of Chumley’s.

You’ll also love the personal attention that this tour offers since group sizes are limited to just ten participants.

But, you know what? Don’t take my word for it! I mean, this experience is so good that it got a 4.8-star rating (out of 5) from more than fifty participants.

So yeah, clearly they are doing something right and you should definitely book your experience now before slots fill up!

Plus, I’ve been on many ghosts tours in my day and this one is definitely one of my faves. Especially since James was a fun, helpful, and informative guide who made this experience truly memorable for me and my friends.

Address: 385 6th Ave, New York, NY 10014 (Meeting Point)

Hours: Tours are two hours long and are offered daily at 8:00 pm.

Price: $35 per person.

How to Get There: Take the D/F/A/C/E train to Washington Square station and walk from there.

2. Embark on a 2-Hour Greenwich Village Cupcake Tour

If you’re a hardcore foodie like me then this is one of those Greenwich Village things to do that you will absolutely love.

I mean, carbs? Good. Sugar? Epic. The two together? Legend. Plus, this also happens to be one of the best things to do in Greenwich Village NYC that is perfect for the entire family since, well, what kid doesn’t love cupcakes?

So, book your two-hour tour now and prepare for a one-of-a-kind, gastronomic experience. Trust me, I’ve done this tour myself and loved building my own cupcake at Molly’s Cupcakes and visiting various boutique bakeshops in Greenwich Village.

You know, total local hot spots like Baked by Melissa, Crumbs Bake Shop (where they have 50+ varieties of cupcakes), and Milk & Cookies – just to name a few of the Greenwich Village hidden gems that you’ll see.

Heck, you’ll even get to taste an incredible twenty-two flavors of gelato in a single bite at Amorino during this iconic tour .

However, if you’re still unsure, you can always check out the reviews here and see why 200+ participants gave this tour 4.4 out of 5 stars.

Address: The meeting point for this tour is at the Southwest corner of Union Square, at the intersection of East 14th Street and Union Square West.

Hours: Tours start at 3 pm, last two hours, and run every day, except Monday and Tuesday.

Price: $50 per person

How to Get There: You can take the 4 or 6 train and get off at Union Square/14th Street Station or take the Q train and get off at 14th Street Station and then walk from there.

3. Friends Apartment Building

Many of the best things to do in Greenwich Village NYC revolve around popular TV shows. And one great example of this is the Friends apartment building.

According to the Friends storyline, all six of the main characters – Ross, Rachel, Monica, Phoebe, Chandler, and Joey –​​ lived in the building on 90 Bedford Street at one point or another.

Surprisingly, this structure is actually an apartment building in real life too! In other words, there are a few lucky humans who get to live in the same building as the Friends characters did.

This famous building also includes a commercial space on the ground floor, which, in the TV show, is home to everyone’s favorite hang-out spot, Central Perk.

But if you venture to one of the top Greenwich Village attractions today, you’ll find something a little different.

So, instead of a cute coffee shop, you’ll find an adorable Mediterranean restaurant called Little Owl.

At any time of day, you can see dozens of tourists taking pictures with this iconic building – and you can be one of them!

And while you won’t be able to enter the building, there are loads of other Friends filming locations to see in Greenwich Village, including The Lucille Lortel Theatre, Phoebe’s Apartment, and the Village Cigar sign.

Address: 90 Bedford St, New York, NY 10014

Hours: Twenty-four hours a day but you can’t go inside.

Price: Free.

How to Get There: Take the 1 train to Christopher Street station and walk to the apartment from there.

4. Bleecker Street

You can easily spend an entire day exploring everything that Bleecker Street has to offer.

Because this iconic NYC street actually started as a rural piece of farmland but has transformed into a true, local hot spot that is home to some of the best things to do in Greenwich Village NYC.

In fact, Bleecker Street is now packed with cool restaurants, bars, shops, and music venues that are just waiting to be explored.

And one of the most famous spots in the area is John’s Pizza, which isn’t really all that surprising given Bleecker Street’s strong Italian influence.

In fact, this delicious brick-oven pizza spot has been thriving since 1929. So, get yourself one of their fantastic specialty pizzas or create one of your own as part of your Greenwich Village itinerary.

So, after your bite to eat, why not get something to drink? The Garret is a fabulous place to stop. This speakeasy-style bar boasts exposed brick walls, dim lighting, and some of the best cocktails in the area.

Bleecker Street also has tons of unique shops that you can pop into too. You can get everything from used books to leather goods on this bustling street. Noma, Bookmarc, and Goorin Bros. Hat Shop are just a few fantastic stores that are worth a visit.

And last but certainly not least, if you’re looking for some entertainment, Bleecker Street won’t disappoint on that front either.

After all, this famous street in NYC is home to several music venues, including The Bitter End, Terra Blues, and The Red Lion.

Address: Varies

Hours: Varies

Price: Varies

How to Get There: Take the 1/2/3 or A/C/E train to 14th Street station and walk from there.

5. MacDougal Street

If you enjoyed Bleecker Street, then you’ll definitely want to check out MacDougal Street as well.

Despite the fact that it’s only six blocks long, this busy road is packed with delicious eateries, exciting entertainment venues, and so much more!

Now, like most places in New York, MacDougal Street has a noteworthy pizza spot. In this case, it’s Artichoke Basille’s Pizza. As most New York City locations will tell you, their artichoke pizza is a MacDougal Street must-have.

But if you’re not in the mood for pizza, there are definitely other wonderful eateries for you to visit, including Mamoun’s Falafel.

Falafel is a fried, chickpea-based sphere that is originally from the Middle East. Opened in 1971, this eatery is the oldest falafel restaurant in New York!

So, try one of their signature falafel sandwiches, including the classic, the West Village, or the appropriately named MacDougal.

After you’ve filled your belly with some tasty bites, it’s time for some entertainment! If you want to listen to some live music, pop into Cafe Wha.

Music legends like Bob Dylan, Jimi Hendrix, and Bruce Springsteen have all played at Greenwich Village hidden gem .

But the most popular entertainment spot on MacDougal Street is definitely the Comedy Cellar.

The Comedy Cellar is considered to be one of the best comedy clubs in the entire country. Loads of famous comedians have taken the stage at this world-renowned venue, including Aziz Ansari, Dave Chapelle, Sarah Silverman, and Kevin Hart.

Who knows? If you’re lucky, you might be able to see one of these talented entertainers in action while enjoying one of the top things to do in Greenwich Village NYC .

How to Get There: Take the D/F train or the A/C/E train to Washington Square station or the 1 train to Christopher Street station and walk from there.

6. IFC Center

While there are many great movie theaters in New York City, the IFC Center is a special spot.

Rather than showing the latest Hollywood blockbusters, the IFC Center in Greenwich Village puts on some of the coolest independent films.

You may actually know IFC Center best by its former name, the Waverly Theater. As a matter of fact, this theater is where the midnight Rocky Horror Picture Show showings first gained traction.

These events became so popular that the people in the audience no longer acted as quiet bystanders, as is expected at movie theaters.

Instead, they showed up in movie-inspired costumes and yelled at the characters on screen!

Simply put, after these Rocky Horror Picture Show showings, the IFC Center put itself on the map. And then in some Inception -like madness, the IFC Center has since shown up in quite a few movies too.

As an added bonus, many of the screenings at the IFC Center also include a special guest speaker. Plus, after the movie is over, many directors, authors, filmmakers, and critics stick around for a live Q&A!

So, if you’re a movie buff, this is a dream opportunity to find out more about what happens behind the scenes and check out one of the best things to do in Greenwich Village NYC.

Pro Tip: Stop by in November when the IFC Center hosts DOC NYC, an annual documentary film festival.

Address: 323 6th Ave, New York, NY 10014

Hours: Varies by the movie but three films are shown a day, typically between 1:00 pm and 10:00 pm.

Price: Tickets are $17.00 for adults and $14 for kids/seniors.

How to Get There: Take the A/C/E train or D/F train to Washington Square of the 1/2/3 train to 4th Street station and walk from there.

7. Marie’s Crisis Cafe

Marie’s Crisis Cafe is one of the coolest spots in Greenwich Village. It’s simply unlike any other spot in New York City!

When you visit Marie’s Crisis Cafe, you’ll be greeted by the sounds of Broadway songs. In fact, a talented in-house pianist flits his fingers across the black and white keys while enthusiastic patrons sing along at the tops of their lungs.

And since many of the guests are musical theater performers, the singing is absolutely top-notch! It’s like getting a front-row seat to a Broadway show!

And while the fantastic singers here are a highlight of Marie’s Crisis Cafe, this establishment also has quite an intriguing past.

It actually started off as a prostitutes’ den in the 1850s, was later transformed into a boy bar, survived the Prohibition Era, and became the place of death for various Revolutionary War activities.

To make sure that you can get in and enjoy one of the best things to do in Greenwich Village NYC, try to get to Marie’s Crisis Cafe early.

Yeah, this venue is so popular, it simply can’t accommodate all of the people who want to visit at the same time!

Address: 59 Grove St, New York, NY 10014

Hours: Open daily from 4:00 pm to 4:00 am.

Price: Drinks start at $7 each.

How to Get There: Take the 1/2/3 train to 14th Street station or D/F/A/C/E train to Washington Square and walk from there.

8. Off-Broadway Show

One of the most famous things to do in NYC is to see a Broadway show. That said, some of the best entertainment in town is actually off-Broadways.

In fact, these shows usually feature fantastic talent at a much cheaper price and at a much smaller venue, where you can nab amazing seats.

And luckily for you, many off-Broadway show venues are found in Greenwich Village.

In fact, there are quite a few notable off-Broadway venues in Greenwich Village. Cherry Lane Theatre, Provincetown Playhouse, Lucille Lortel Theatre, and The Public Theater are just a few of the best. These spots have put on many amazing shows, including everything from Hair to Hamilton .

So what are you waiting for? Snag yourself some tickets to these fantastic off-Broadway shows and enjoy one of the best things to do in Greenwich Village NYC!

9. Carrie Bradshaw’s Apartment

So far on this list of the best things to do in Greenwich Village NYC, I’ve already included the Friends apartment building.

But that’s not the only apartment building in the neighborhood that was made famous by Hollywood. Carrie Bradshaw’s apartment is in this area too!

According to the popular TV show, Sex and The City , Carrie Bradshaw lives on the Upper East Side. But in reality, her apartment is actually in Greenwich Village!

See, for the first three seasons, the facacde of 64 Perry Street served as the exterior of Carrie Bradshaw’s apartment.

And for the remaining three seasons, the neighboring spot of 66 Perry Street took up that job.

So, if you do decide to visit Carrie Bradshaw’s Apartment, please be respectful of the people who actually live here!

You can snap a couple of pictures while on the public sidewalk, but please don’t wander onto the stairs or onto private property.

However, Carrie Bradshaw’s Apartment isn’t the only Sex and the City filming location in Greenwich Village.

Yup, the Jefferson Market Garden, the SoHo House New York, and Magnolia Bakery are all nearby as well.

Therefore, if you’re a Sex and the City fanatic, you can easily spend a few hours visiting these incredible filming locations as part of your Greenwich Village itinerary.

Address: 64 and 66 Perry Street, New York, NY 10014

Hours: Twenty-four hours a day but do not go on private property.

Price : free

How to Get There: Take the 1/2/3 train to 14th Street station and walk from there.

10. Caffe Reggio

I know what you’re thinking. What is a little coffee shop doing on this list of the best things to do in Greenwich Village NYC?

Well, let me clear that up right now, because Caffe Reggio is ridiculously cool.

First of all, Caffe Reggio is a historic landmark. It was actually the first cafe in the United States to serve a cappuccino!

So, you can thank the owners of Caffe Reggio for bringing your favorite drink over from Italy.

And that’s not the only historic focal point of Caffe Reggio. This coffee shop is also home to the oldest coffee shop in all of New York City!

So, considering that there are nearly 4,000 coffee shops in the city, this is quite an accomplishment.

And while Caffe Reggio boasts historical importance, it has also made its mark on the modern world as well.

As a matter of fact, it has been featured in loads of movies, including The Godfather Part II, The Kremlin Letter, and The Sun Is Also a Star .

Last but certainly not least, there’s the coffee. Since Caffe Reggio has been serving up delicious cups of caffeine since 1927, it should come as no surprise that it has some of the best coffee in town.

Therefore, get an espresso, a cappuccino, a macchiato, or any another coffee drink of your choice.

And if you’d like a bite to eat, Caffe Reggio is happy to provide that too! Try the tiramisu, the cannoli, or the zabaglione for a truly unforgettable NYC dessert experience.

Address: 119 MacDougal St, New York, NY 10012

Hours: Open daily from 9:00 am to 3:00 am, and until 4:00 am on Friday and Saturday.

Price: Espresso starts at $2.75.

How to Get There: Take the D/F/A/C/E train to Washington Square and walk from there.

11. Unoppressive Non-Imperialist Bargain Books

This list of the best things to do in Greenwich Village has included a bunch of Greenwich Village hidden gems. But one of my favorites is Unoppressive Non-Imperialist Bargain Books.

See, bookstores have been on the decline for the past couple of decades. Even in a massive city like New York, there are less than 80 bookstores left!

That said, Unoppressive Non-Imperialist Bargain Books has found a way to stay open –​​ and distinct –​​ despite its many challenges.

The first unique feature of Unoppressive Non-Imperialist Bargain Books is the fact that all of its books are sold at a 50% discount when compared to retail price! In other words, it’s a good place to get a deal!

The second thing that makes this Greenwich Village bookstore distinctive is the wide range of book topics in stock.

So, enjoy one of many Greenwich Village things to do when you purchase reads about everything from politics to philosophy to poetry.

Address: 34 Carmine St, New York, NY 10014

Hours: Open daily from 11:00 am to 10:00 pm, and until 12:00 am on Fridays and Saturdays.

Price: Varies but free to look.

How to Get There: Take the D/F train to Washington Square station and walk from there.

12. Sticky’s Finger Joint

Sticky’s Finger Joint actually lives up to the slogan: “The Best Damn Chicken Around.”

Because since it was established in 2012, Sticky’s Finger Joint has already opened a dozens of outposts all across the city. And that’s a true testament to just how good the chicken from this little eatery is!

Now, there are a few reasons why everything here is so dang good. First, there’s the chicken. All of the poultry used at Sticky’s Finger Joint is free-range, which means this eatery uses high-quality ingredients.

But that’s not the only thing that sets the chicken at this joint apart from the rest. There’s also an extensive menu of rotating flavors and sauces.

So, tickle your tastebuds with the chicken & waffles, the Thai fiesta, the poppers basket, or the classic chicken sandwich.

As for the sauces, you can get everything from the Szechuan-inspired Nashville numb to the tropical Caribbean sweet heat to white bbq sauce known as Sticky’s sauce for the ultimate gastronomic experience in NYC.

Pro Tip: They also have great vegetarian options too.

Address: 31 W 8th St, New York, NY 10011

Hours: Open daily from 11:00 am to 10:00 pm, except Thursday through Saturday when they are open until 11:00 pm.

Price: Food starts at around $8.50 per order.

13. The Stonewall Inn

The Stonewall Inn, simply known to locals at Stonewall, is an LGBTQ+ landmark that is also one of the best things to do in Greenwich Village NYC.

The story began in 1969 when police raided The Stonewall Inn, which was a well-known gay club in the city.

The police officers roughly hauled out both the guests and employees and even arrested 13 people for violating New York’s gender-appropriate clothing statute.

In response, this led to the Stonewall riots, which included six days of protests outside of The Stonewall Inn.

But these protests didn’t just affect Greenwich Village. Rather, they acted as a catalyst that began the gay rights movement across the globe.

This event then led to the creation of many gay rights organizations, including GLAAD, the Gay Liberation Front, and PFLAG.

Plus, exactly one year after the Stone Wall Riots, the first gay parade in the United States took place in the very same spot.

So, be sure to visit the historical Stonewall Inn for yourself! Enjoy fabulous drinks, socialize with the friendly patrons, and enjoy the entertainment.

Depending on the day of the week, you’ll be able to dance the night away during a dance party, listen to top-notch music from a talented pianist, or watch a drag show!

Simply put, the Stonewall Inn is definitely worth a visit as part of any Greenwich Village itinerary.

Address: 53 Christopher St, New York, NY 10014

Hours: Open daily from 2:00 pm to 4:00 am, except on Saturday and Sunday when they open at 1:00 pm.

Price: Around $7.00 and $18.00 each for drinks.

How to Get There: Take the 1 train to Christopher Street station and walk from there.

14. Washington Square Park

Easily one of the best parks in NYC , Washington Square Park sits right near NYU and is lined with stunning, Greek Revival townhouses that help give this Greenwich Village attraction a dose of historic charm.

It’s also here that you’ll find loads of quirky street artists performing for eager onlookers, in addition to skateboarders doing rad tricks, and pro chess players kicking ass and taking names.

However, no trip to one of the top things to do in Greenwich Village NYC would be complete without stopping to take a photo with the giant, 73-foot tall, white Tuckahoe marble arch that is the Stanford White Arch.

Yeah, it quietly sits on the North end of the park and was designed to resemble the Arc De Triomphe in Paris. So, if it looks super familiar, that’s why.

If you can though, try to arrive as close to dawn as possible so that you can take photos sans people.

For the best pics though, stand in front of the Stanford White Arch – looking down Fifth Avenue – so that you can capture the Empire State Building right in the background, in the center of the arch.

Address: Washington Square, New York, NY 10012

Hours: Open 6:00 am to 12:00 am daily.

Price: Free!

How to Get There: Take the A/C/E train or the B/D/F/M train to stops at Washington Square Park and walk from there.

15. Catch a Show at the Comedy Cellar

Easily one of the best things to do in Greenwich Village NYC, the Comedy Cellar is THE place to go for an incredible comedy show in NYC.

After all, this venue regularly hosts top comedians like Amy Schumer, Robin Williams, Dave Chappelle, Sarah Silverman, and more.

Accordingly, this place is SUPER popular. Therefore, deffo reserve your tickets well in advance.

Additionally, be prepared to sit in a dank, crowded basement for the duration of the show. This also means that you’ll probably have to share a table with more than a few someones that you don’t know.

Yup, you’ve been warned. However, it’s worth it since every show I’ve seen here has been excellent, even if I had no idea who the comic was.

There’s also a 2 beer minimum and a 3 beer maximum once you get inside. And because this is New York, those beers aren’t cheap.

So, do come prepared to spend some mildly serious coinage while you’re here. I’ve also heard through the grapevine that if you’re really nice, your server might “forget” about the whole 3 beer maximum thing. #justsayin’

Oh, and after the show, be sure to visit The Olive Tree (literally right upstairs) since this is where all the comics go to hang out once their set is over.

This way, who knows, you might actually be able to spot a real-life celeb in their natural habitat.

Address: 117 MacDougal St #1267, New York, NY 10012

Hours: Open Monday through Sunday from 11 am to 3 am.

Price : Tickets are $17 each + your 2 beer minimum.

How to Get There: Take the A, C, E train or the B, D, F train to West 4th Street station and walk from there.

16. Experience Cellar Dog

Formerly Fat Cat Jazz Club, Cellar Dog recently opened here in July of 2021 and has quickly become one of the best things to do in Greenwich Village NYC.

And that makes sense since this place has maintained all of the same decor and chill vibes of its predecessor.

So, take a peek at one of the best indoor activities in NYC and enjoy a low-budget hangout spot where you can play ping-pong, checkers, chess ($1 to play as much as you want), shuffleboard ($6/$7 per hour), and foosball ($1 per game).

Afterward, grab a drink and enjoy a live jazz sesh in this informal bar. Yeah, it’s nothing fancy but a night here is definitely a whole lot of fun.

You also will have to pay a cover to get in but it’s worth it to visit one of many Greenwich Village hidden gems.

Pro Tip: Stop by on Friday evenings for exceptionally awesome jazz.

Address: 75 Christopher St, New York, NY 10014

Hours: Open Wednesday through Sunday from 4:00 pm to 4:00 am.

Price: Around $3 to get in.

How to Get There: Take the 1 train to Christopher Street Station and walk from there.

Map of the Best Things to do in Greenwich Village NYC

Additional New York Neighborhood Guides You’ll Love

• Best Things to do on the Upper West Side
• Best Things to do on the Upper East Side
• Best Things to do in Chelsea

Privacy Overview

20 Things to do in Greenwich Village & West Village

Looking for the best things to do in Greenwich Village? We got you. Greenwich Village, or The Village, is one of New York City’s most iconic and historic neighborhoods. It’s known for its bohemian vibe, rich artistic history, and lush tree-lined streets. Whether you’re a history buff, an art lover, or simply looking for a unique New York experience, you’ll find plenty of things to do in Greenwich Village!

This Manhattan neighborhood has always been a haven for artists, writers, and musicians. Once a hub for the Beat Generation and the birthplace of the 1960s counterculture movement, Greenwich Village is still home to some of the city’s most vibrant arts and culture scenes.

Today, the neighborhood is a thriving community that blends history with modern life, offering visitors an unforgettable experience. It’s known for infamous landmarks like Washington Square Park, the Stonewall Inn, and the Village Vanguard jazz club. You can check out charming cafes and boutiques on Bleecker Street or enjoy the bustling nightlife on MacDougal Street.

The Village is in Lower Manhattan , reaching from the Hudson River all the way to Broadway. To the north is 14th Street and Chelsea, another hopping neighborhood in Manhattan. And the southern boundary of Greenwich Village is Houston Street and SoHo.

Also, the West Village is actually a smaller neighborhood within Greenwich Village. It covers the area west of 7th Avenue all the way to the Hudson. The West Village is known for its gorgeous brownstones and a small-town European feel. There are cobblestone streets, restaurants with outdoor dining, and colorful carriage houses.

With so much charm, you’ll find both tourists and locals enjoying all the things to do in the Village on any given day. Greenwich Village is definitely a must-visit destination that should be on every traveler’s list!

Check Out the 20 Best Things to Do in the Village

Want to explore the most beautiful streets in Manhattan? Or enjoy some of the most iconic landmarks in New York City? Perhaps you want to stand in the birthplace of the gay rights movement. You’ll find all that and more on our list of things to do in West Village and the greater Greenwich Village neighborhood.

• Washington Square Park

Perhaps one of the most famous parks in NYC is Washington Square Park. It sits at the heart of the bohemian neighborhood and offers some of the most popular things to do in Greenwich Village throughout the year.

With the NYU campus surrounding the park, you can expect to see alot of college students as well as tons of great people watching including random performers and all sorts of activity always happening here.

Come during the summer and enjoy free movies, live concerts, and street fairs. This is where the annual Dog Run Halloween Parade and Costume Contest is located, one of our favorite events! And if you come in the winter, you can see one of the best holiday trees in NYC, under the Washington Square Arch.

Washington Square Park’s centerpiece is a large fountain, which serves as a gathering place for all kinds of people. You’re bound to see street performers and musicians, as well as artists selling their work. And you’ll find that Washington Square Park is surrounded by beautiful historic buildings, many of which are part of New York University’s main campus.

There are also benches around the fountain and seating areas throughout the park, providing plenty of places to sit and take in the lively atmosphere. There are several statues and monuments, as well as a grassy lawn and a dog park for small dogs.

• Stonewall National Monument

Address: 38-64 Christopher Street

The Stonewall Inn in the West Village is a historic site for the LGBTQ+ community. In June 1969, police raided the Stonewall Inn, a popular gay bar. This led to a series of riots and protests that became known as the Stonewall Uprising. The raid was a turning point in the fight for LGBTQ+ rights. It’s now seen as the beginning of the modern gay rights movement in the United States.

In 2016, the area was recognized by President Obama as the Stonewall National Monument. It includes the Stonewall Inn, Christopher Park, and the surrounding streets where the uprising took place. This recognition made Stonewall the first national monument to LGBTQ+ rights and history in the US!

Visiting the monument is one of the most unique things to do in West Village and can be a moving experience for many. Have a drink at the inn (which is still a gay bar) or attend a show there. In the park, there’s a bust of Marsha Johnson, the Gay Liberation Monument, and historic plaques to read.

• Carrie Bradshaw’s Brownstone

Address: 66 Perry Street

In the popular tv series, Sex, and the City, the lead character Carrie Bradshaw lived on the Upper West Side. Exterior shots of her apartment were often featured in the show, and you can tell it was an actual, real-life NYC brownstone. In the show, Carrie’s address is 245 E 73rd Street, but if you look it up, the address doesn’t exist! However, you can visit the actual film site in the West Village.

If you’re a fan of Sex and the City film sites in NYC, you’ll be interested to know that the exterior of Carrie’s apartment was filmed at a few locations over the first few seasons. But from season 3 till the end of the series, the film site was at 66 Perry Street, between W 4th Street and Bleecker Street.

Today, the brownstone is privately owned, and it’s important to respect the owner’s request for privacy. When you visit, you’ll probably see a sign chained across the stairs. It’s fine to take a picture on the public sidewalk and enjoy beautiful Perry Street, but don’t go up the steps of the house! They also have a donation box for a charitable cause, which is a nice use of the popularity of their stoop!

And if you’re a fan of the spin-off series, you may also recognize it as an And Just Like That filming location too!

• Friends Apartment Building

Address: 90 Bedford Street

TV fans looking for more things to do in the West Village will not be disappointed! A few blocks south of Perry Street, you’ll find another iconic NYC filming location . It’s the Friends apartment building!

That is, the actual apartment was a Warner Brothers set filmed in Burbank, California. But the apartment building you see in establishing shots from Friends can be seen on the corner of Grove and Bedford Streets in the Village.

Take a minute to check out this quintessential New York City apartment building. It has brick arches, AC units here and there, and classic NYC fire escapes trellising the sides.

And of course, there’s a restaurant on the bottom level. While it’s not Central Perk, Little Owl is still a great restaurant where you can enjoy a meal while you’re on Grove Street.

Shopping Down Bleecker Street

Bleecker Street is a major artery running through the center of Greenwich Village. It boasts many charming boutiques, trendy shops, and luxury brands running from W 7th up to Hudson Street. One of the most popular things to do in the West Village is enjoy all the quality shopping you’ll find there!

Some of the biggest names in fashion have stores along Bleecker, including Burberry and Cynthia Rowley. There are also a dozen high-end boutiques selling everything from men’s suits and handmade jewelry to children’s apparel and custom shoes.

For quality denim in every wash and style, visit 7 For All Mankind. And if you’re a bookworm and also an accessory lover, you’ll want to visit Bookmarc. This is an independent bookstore launched by Marc Jacobs that specializes in hard-to-find books. Plus, you can pick up Marc Jacobs accessories while you’re there! 

Other notable shops on Bleecker Street include the curated gift shop, Boyar Gifts. And Zuri is a woman-owned, Black-owned boutique where you can buy bold pieces in a variety of custom prints! Whether you’re looking for designer fashion, wardrobe staples, or one-of-a-kind gifts, Bleecker Street has something for everyone.

• Comedy Cellar

Address: Original Location 117 MacDougal Street, Village Underground & Black Fat Pussycat 130 W 3rd Street

Have you always wanted to see a comedy show in NYC? You’re in the right place! The Village is home to three Comedy Cellar locations. There’s the Black Fat Pussycat and the Village Underground, both at 130 W 3rd Street. And then there’s the infamous Comedy Cellar around the corner at 117 MacDougal Street.

With shows being one of the most popular things to do in Greenwich Village, all 3 locations host comedy line-ups 7 nights a week! The original Comedy Cellar is best known for being where the likes of Jerry Seinfeld and Chris Rock got their start and still show up from time to time.

The Village Underground is the largest venue, being a historic music venue that dates back to the 1960s. Probably everyone has played here, from Bob Dylan and Patti Smith to John Mayer. Today, it includes The Comedy Cellar at the Village Underground, another venue where you can see comedians every night of the week!

And the Fat Black Pussycat is a sultry addition to the Comedy Cellar family. It features the same iconic brick wall where comedians tell their jokes, but the rest of the vibe is decadent. For any of the three locations, you can grab reservations on the Comedy Central website.

Check Out a Jazz Club

View this post on Instagram A post shared by James and Karla Murray (@jamesandkarla)

The Village has always been a refuge for musicians, and you can visit landmark jazz clubs right here! Make your first stop the Village Vanguard on 7th Avenue and Waverly Place. This is the oldest jazz club in NYC, hosting some of the biggest jazz musicians since 1957.

Blue Note Jazz Cub has locations across the world, but the Greenwich Village location on W 3rd Street was the first. It opened in the 80s with a desire to be a safe place for jazz musicians of every race and creed. Come early if you want a table and see if you notice any famous faces in the audience or onstage!

And don’t miss out on a chance to stop by Smalls Jazz Club . You’ll find this cool, no-frills spot on W 10th Street near 7th Avenue. The intimate venue is considered one of the best places in the world to enjoy an impromptu jam session over a drink.

• Enjoy an Off-Broadway Show

All creative types have called Greenwich Village home, so it’s no surprise that the neighborhood has become synonymous with off-Broadway shows. You can enjoy some of the best plays in NYC, including developing work, at some of the longest-running venues in the city.

Hosting shows since the 1920s Cherry Lane Theater is one of the smallest and oldest off-Broadway playhouses in the city! You can see a variety of big-name shows as well as works by unknown playwrights.

Greenwich House Theater on Barrow Street only opened in 2012 and has made quite a name for itself. This is where to come to see fresh shows and up-and-coming actors. In fact, this theatre has earned awards for its creativity in play production.

Or get tickets to whatever’s showing at Minetta Lane Theatre . With just under 400 seats, as well as a live orchestra, this is the largest intimate stage on our list. Minetta has a big reputation and is the perfect place to see an off-Broadway show with a Broadway-sized feel.

Intimate Live Music Venues

For cool things to do in Greenwich Village, hang out at Bob Dylan’s old haunts! The folk-rock artist wrote and performed all over the neighborhood, including at both Café Wha? And the Bitter End . 

Today, Cafe Wha? Maintains its roots that go back to the 60s. On any given night, you can enjoy raw and real jazz, rock, soul, or another style of music while you sip on coffee or cocktails. And if you visit the Bitter End, you just might enjoy an intimate show by a world-renown musician in a club that feels frozen in time 50 years ago!

• Magnolia Bakery

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Magnolia Bakery (@magnoliabakery)

Address: 401 Bleecker Street

If you’ve never heard of Magnolia Bakery, you’re in for a treat. And if you’re a fan of Sex and the City, this one’s probably on your to-do list! While Magnolia Bakery has several locations in NYC today, the location on Bleecker and W 11th Street is the original!

The famous bakery made history when it was featured in season 3 of SATC. Carrie and Miranda ate pink frosted cupcakes outside the original location on Bleecker. After that, Magnolia Bakery blew up!

Plus, their banana pudding is out of this world and is known to cause lines out the door (seriously). And their red velvet cupcakes are some of the best. Check them out in the West Village while you’re scoping out Carrie’s apartment around the corner!

Enjoy Some NYC Pizza

While you’re walking the eclectic streets of Greenwich Village, stop for a classic slice of NYC pizza! In fact, some of the best pizza in NYC can be found in the neighborhood. There are so many great spots in this neighborhood, each with its own personality! Here are just a few of our favorites.

Located near the corner of Carmine Street and 6th Avenue, Joe’s Pizza has been serving up cheese and single-topping slices since 1975. They’re a simple joint where you pay with cash and choose from what’s under the glass. It’s the perfect place to grab a whole pie or a single slice and head to the park across the street.

Artichoke Basille’s Pizza is another popular spot in the NYC pizza scene. The family pizzeria opened in 2008 and has taken the city by storm with multiple locations. In the Village, check them out on MacDougal Street close to Minetta Lane. Their creative pies are a must with delicious flavors like creamy artichoke and vodka Sicilian!

While you’re looking for things to do in Greenwich Village, don’t pass up a visit to Bleecker Street Pizza . If you’re looking for top-notch traditional New York pizza with tons of variety, come here. Order by the slice or the pie, and make sure to try their signature Nonna Marie pie!

And of course, we had to include L’Antica Pizzeria Da Michele in the West Village. This is a refined NYC pizza experience on Bank Street between Greenwich Avenue and Waverly Place. Enjoy the beautiful atmosphere while you dine on classic Italian coal-fired pizza and other Italian delicacies.

Other Iconic Neighborhood Eats

Just like the landscape of the neighborhood, the eateries of Greenwich Village are a patchwork of old and new. There’s something for every taste and some of the best restaurants in New York City can be found here. Whether you’re looking for a historic, iconic destination, or just a great place to grab a bit, we’ve got you covered.

Since it opened in 1937, Minetta Tavern has drawn creatives and celebrities alike. Come enjoy a timeless setting at this French bistro and tavern and see if you spot a few faces you recognize! And their burger is excellent!

You haven’t truly experienced New York City until you’ve been to Dante . The original location near 6th Avenue is the best place for their iconic cocktails, or grab a table at the larger Dante West Village.

Buvette feels like a bit of France in the middle of the West Village and is one of the most popular brunch spots in the city. This bistro hits it out of the ballpark with its quality offerings like cortados and croque monsieurs.

Corner Bistro is the place to come for chill vibes and a good burger and a beer! One of the last classic dive bars, Corner Bistro is a must-visit for a true Village experience.

Murray’s Cheese is an iconic cheese monger and specialty store has been a pillar of Bleecker Street for over 70 years. After you peruse the cheese shop, head next door to Murray’s Mac & Cheese for a fun meal!

The nightly crowds should tell you just how amazing the seafood is at Mermaid Oyster Bar . And you’ll want to take advantage of their ridiculously good happy hour specials, in fact they have one of the best happy hours in NYC !

Across the street is Figaro Cafe , another excellent spot for happy hour as well as a historic landmark, it’s been reopened and reimagined from the original Le Figaro Café, which was a hot spot among beatniks. Now it features a modern American menu.

Around since 1900, Faico’s is an Italian market and delicatessen that’s not going anywhere anytime soon. Come in for a cold-cut sandwich and pick up some hard-to-find pantry items while you’re here.

Via Carota is a true gem that opened in 2014 on Grove Street. With classics like cacio e pepe, this Italian restaurant has been proving ever since that it belongs in hard-to-please NYC!

Skip the frill elsewhere in Greenwich Village and head to this gritty diner that feels like it’s been frozen time at La Bonbonniere ! Picture the most classic American diner fare and you’ve got a good idea of what this cash-only spot is serving up. This was also a Marvelous Mrs. Maisel filming location too!

Don Angie is known for their warm ambiance and elevated Italian food served by a French-trained chef. Their signature lasagna is a must, as is the chrysanthemum salad. Be sure to snag a reservation in advance.

Carbone is a white-linen Italian restaurant has a retro feel and is famous for hosting some of the biggest names in NYC. What Carbone does best is a homestyle Italian meal with a first-class tableside experience.

Marie’s Crisis Café

Address: 59 Grove Street

If you’re looking for unique things to do in Greenwich Village, we recommend an evening at Marie’s Crisis Café . This popular piano bar located in the West Village is known for its lively and friendly atmosphere. Come join the crowds and sing along to show tunes and classic Broadway hits played live on the piano!

The bar has a unique history to go with its unique name. In the 1830s it opened as a brothel and a speakeasy, and then Marie Dumont opened her piano café in the 1920s. From the earliest days, the location had been known as a safe place for LGBTQ+ members, as well as creatives of all types. And it still carries that spirit today!

The bar staff and regulars are welcoming and enthusiastic to all. It’s common for strangers to join in and sing together around the piano that’s situated at the center of the bar. And the pianists are talented and can play nearly any Broadway show tune requested by the crowd.

Just be prepared for plenty of company, as Marie’s Crisis Bar is an intimate space that draws a crowd! But it adds to the charm and energy of the venue. The walls are covered with theater memorabilia. You’ll see posters, playbills, and framed photos of Broadway stars. The bar doesn’t serve food, but you can bring your own or order delivery from nearby restaurants.

Watch Basketball

One of the most traditional experiences in New York City and Greenwich Village happens at The Cage. This is an outdoor basketball court located at the busy intersection of West 3rd Street and 6th Avenue, right outside the W 4th Street subway. 

For classic Greenwich Village things to do, why not grab a slice at Joe’s and watch some seriously good street basketball? Sometimes, you’ll catch famous basketball players like Kobe Bryant joining a game! The court itself is small and surrounded by tall chain-link fences and leafy trees. Its corner location makes it perfect for spectating.

The Cage has become an iconic spot for pick-up ball but also hosts local tournaments during the summer. The Cage is open year-round, and you’ll find games happening from early in the morning until late at night.

Catch a Movie at IFC Center

Address: 323 6th Avenue

Across from The Cage on 6th Avenue is the IFC Center, where you can see a curated line-up of independent, cult, and foreign films any day of the week. IFC took over the historic Waverly Theatre and renovated the 5 screens in the early 2000s.

Today, the many events and film festivals held at the theater are some of the most popular things to do in the Village with visitors and residents alike. You can attend Weekend Classics on Saturdays and Sundays, as well as midnight shows. The IFC Center is also famous for hosting DOC NYC, an annual documentary film festival, as well as seasonal documentary series.

You can see short film screenings, check out an exhibit with vintage movie posters from around the world, and much more. But one of the best parts about the theater is the IFC Center Peephole! If you’re standing outside in front of the theater, look to the right, about 5 feet above the ground. There’s a circular metal plate. Lift the eye covers and peak inside to see what’s playing! It just might tempt you to come inside and buy a ticket to the next showing.

• Whitney Museum

Address: 99 Gansevoort Street

Another subset of Greenwich Village is the Meatpacking District along the Hudson. Located around the northern boundary of the West Village, this neighborhood is where you’ll find many of the city’s art galleries and studios. It’s also home to the Whitney Museum of American Art on Gansevoort Street, located right at the southern end of the High Line.

The Whitney Museum of American Art is housed in a striking contemporary building designed by architect Renzo Piano. It’s a world-renowned museum that’s dedicated to showcasing works of American art from the 20th and 21st centuries. Founded in 1930 by Gertrude Vanderbilt Whitney, the museum boasts an extensive collection that includes paintings, sculptures, photographs, videos, and installations and is truly one of the best museums in NYC .

You can see works by some of America’s most celebrated artists, such as Georgia O’Keeffe, Jackson Pollock, and Andy Warhol. But a big part of the Whitney Museum is the focus on living American artists. Throughout the year, you can see rotating exhibitions that showcase the work of these artists and explore new movements in American art!

If you’re interested in museum talks, workshops, or guided tours, the Whitney offers a range of options for art enthusiasts. And the Whitney has both a beautiful café and a cocktail bar. The museum’s open every day except Tuesday and you’re encouraged to purchase tickets in advance online. Anyone under 18 can enjoy free admission.

• C.O. Bigelow

Address: 414 6th Avenue

You might have heard of the C.O. Bigelow brand, but did you know you can visit the original store in NYC? It’s the oldest apothecary in the United States, and it’s located on 6th Avenue between W 8th and 9th Streets.

It was founded in 1838 by Dr. Galen Hunter, who sold the business to a young pharmacist named Clarence Otis Bigelow in 1880. Since then, the store has been passed down through the Bigelow family and has become a beloved fixture in the Village.

When you visit C.O. Bigelow, you’ll be transported back in time. The store is filled with original fixtures, a wooden phone booth, antique display cases, and vintage apothecary bottles. You can shop a vast selection of high-quality skincare, haircare, and fragrance products. The store is also known for its pharmacy services and has a team of pharmacists who can assist you.

Plus, fans of the C.O. Bigelow brand will have a blast perusing the store’s entire line, some of which have been on shelves for 150 years! It feels like a museum, with displays featuring original handwritten recipes for the most popular C.O. Bigelow products.

• White Horse Tavern

Address: 567 Hudson Street

For history buffs looking for cool things to do in West Village, the White Horse Tavern is a must-visit destination. Whether you’re a fan of literature or simply looking for a classic and historic New York City bar experience, you’ll want to check this place out! It’s also a popular place for weekend brunch.

The White Horse Tavern is a historic bar on the corner of Hudson Street and W 11th Street. It was established in 1880 and originally catered to dock workers from along the Hudson. In the early 1900s, the bar became a popular haunt for future famous writers, including Dylan Thomas and James Baldwin!

The bar serves up a quality range of beers and cocktails, as well as a long menu of pub and American fare. Inside the White Horse Tavern, you can see that they’ve maintained much of the original décor. The walls are adorned with photos and memorabilia from the bar’s storied history. Note the original tile ceilings, wooden fixtures, and odds and ends that just feel like they’ve always been there.

Explore Some Charming Streets

One of the best things to do in the West Village really is just aimlessly wandering! Grove Street is a great place to start. This 5-block street between Hudson Street and Christopher Park seems to hold much of the Village’s old-world charm. There are tree-lined streets, colonial-style townhouses, and many of the main attractions on our list!

But one of our favorite spots on Grove Street is the lesser-known Grove Court . On a block between Bedford and Hudson, look for an iron gate between townhouses with a sign that reads “Grove Court.” This hidden alley is actually a courtyard for a beautiful pre-war apartment building with a lush garden. You can’t go in, but it’s nice to peak through the gate.

From Christopher Park, turn onto Waverly Place and look for where it intersects with Gay Street . This 1-block street bends at the northern end to connect with Christopher Street. It’s one of those odd places in the middle of Manhattan’s grid that feels left over from another time. Gay Street dates back as far as the 1820s when many of the Federal and Greek Revival-style houses on the street were built.

And for a real piece of New York history, walk a few blocks over to Washington Mews . This 1-block private street is just north of Washington Square N. You’ll notice gates at both ends of the street. Even though it’s a private street, pedestrians are welcome to walk down Washington Mews. You’ll see a cobblestone path and the most adorable carriage houses. This mews, or stable courtyard, once serviced the larger townhomes lining the park!

Bleecker is another walk that gives a nice vibe to the area with niche shops, restaurants, and bars. You can also turn up MacDougal for a stroll along the park. This street features many well-preserved mansions and apartment buildings from the 19th century. And while you’re heading this way, check out another hidden street, MacDougal Alley ! This is another private street where you can see lovely old townhomes.

• House of Death

Address: 14 W 10th Street

Literary fans looking for things to do in Greenwich Village might be interested in the haunting story of 14 W 10th Street. If you’re walking around the area between 5th and 6th Avenue, you might not think much about the beautiful brownstone. However, you’ll want to note the historic plaque stating that Mark Twain lived there.

This is the House of Death and apparently, Twain’s ghost has been spotted here! With a nickname as extreme as the House of Death, the brownstone has got to have a dark past, right? Built in 1856, the site was home to several prominent members of NYC society. Dark and mysterious things started happening in the 1890s in connection to the house, and it’s a mystery as to why!

Over the years, residents have experience strings of bad luck, seen a variety of ghostly apparitions, and even been brutally murdered in the house. Mark Twain wrote about his experience with seeing objects move in the house during his short 12 months living there! And even though he moved away, the house must have made an impact, because several residents claim to have seen his ghost after his death!

In the last few decades, some residents say they get a weary feeling near the main staircase and have seen flickering lights, but that’s about it. You can’t go inside, but if you dare get close to the House of Death, it’s certainly a unique stop in the neighborhood!

Greenwich Village is definitely worth a visit and should be on your radar on an NYC trip as this famous bohemian neighborhood not only has a deep counter-culture and Beat Generation history, but it’s also home to some of the best restaurants in New York City as well as best nightlife including jazz clubs, comedy clubs, historic bars, and off-broadway theaters.

Greenwich Village is a special neighborhood in New York City as it’s historically been home to artists, creatives, and the heart of not only the Beat Generation and counter-culture movement but also where the Gay Liberation movement really took off.

The West Village is known for its cluster of gorgeous architecture and brownstones, being home to many celebrities, and charming streets full of shops, boutiques, cafes, and restaurants. The West Village also has theaters and home to LGBTQ monuments that highlight the history of the gay liberation movement that took off here after the Stonewall Uprising.

Best Things to do in West Village & Greenwich Village Summary:

• Shopping on Bleecker Street
• Check out a Jazz Club
• Check Out Intimate Live Music Venues
• Iconic Neighborhood Restaurants
• Marie’s Crisis Cafe
• Watch Street Basketball
• See a Movie at IFC Center
• Explore the Charming Streets

Found this guide to all to cool and unique things to do in the Village helpful? Bookmark for later!

Similar Posts

How to Get from NYC to the Hamptons (EASY TO FOLLOW GUIDE)

Planning a trip from NYC to the Hamptons? Whether you’re leaving from NYC to the Hamptons or Brooklyn to…

Weekend in Boston Getaway Guide (Boston Itinerary)

Looking for how to spend a perfect weekend in Boston? We’ve got you covered. Planning a Boston getaway can…

15 Best & Closest Skiing to NYC (Plus Car-Free Options)

Looking for the closest skiing near NYC for a wintery getaway? Whether you’re looking for a day trip from…

What to Pack for Brooklyn (Brooklyn Packing List)

Planning a trip to Brooklyn or New York City anytime soon? Check out our guide for what to pack…

How to get from JFK to Park Slope (& Park Slope to JFK)

Trying to find the best way to get from JFK to Park Slope or Park Slope to JFK? Our…

30+ Best Brooklyn Instagram Spots

Looking for the most amazing Brooklyn Instagram spots for your next trip? We’ve unloaded an entire Brooklyn guide to…

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

This website uses cookies to improve your browsing experience and analyze the use of the website. Learn More

Reserve Your Spot with Confidence! Full Refunds with 24 Hrs Notice. Reschedule at any point, even after tour, if space allows!

Things To Do In Greenwich Village

Greenwich Village (called "the Village" by New Yorkers) is known for its interesting history and its unique energy, both of which make it worth visiting.

It's a popular neighborhood for those looking for lively nightlife as it is filled with restaurants, bars, live music, and comedy clubs.

At the same time, the Village has a charm about it with its quiet, small side streets lined with historic rowhouses and brownstones.

You could easily spend a day here wandering its leafy streets, shopping at small local shops, and people-watching in Washington Square Park.

This post covers things to do in Greenwich Village, in particular, the West Village, with recommendations from a native New Yorker.

Included are the top sights to see, places to eat and shop, and where to see live music and theater.

We are a group of local tour guides who lead daily walking tours of Greenwich Village and throughout New York City.

Some of us live here, have lived here, and we all work here.

And in the video below, Renee, a tour guide with us, Tours by Foot NYC , takes you on a virtual walk of the neighborhood.

We know a thing or two about this place. We even wrote and published an audio tour of the area.

Here's a sample talking about the Friends Building.

Now, without further ado, let's get to the post.

• Top Things To Do
• Restaurants

Plan Your Visit

• Where to Stay in NYC

Top Things To Do In Greenwich Village

Below we list the best attractions and things to do in this wonderful neighborhood (including seasonal events so you can see what's happening when you are visiting).

We also recommend restaurants and places to stay .

To get to know this special neighborhood, join one of our pay-what-you-like guided tours !

We also offer a GPS audio tour  you can take at any time.

UPCOMING EVENTS

There's plenty to do year-round including all the things to do in this post.

Here are a few events scheduled for this month and next:

The inaugural Light Up The Village Block Party will be held on December 1 from 3 pm-7 pm when W. 8th Street between 5th and 6th Avenue will be lit with holiday lights.

Free live music will be provided by the legendary Brass Queens, a 9-piece brass band.

Vendors selling gifts will be there and hot drinks will be on hand!

Christmas Celebrations in Washington Square Park

The Christmas Tree lighting occurs the first week in December (check back with us for the exact date).

On December 17 at 6 p.m., Unsilent Night , the annual noise-making one-mile parade takes place. It's free to join in the merriment.

On Christmas Eve at 5 p.m., join the locals in the park for Christmas caroling.

 Winter Jazzfest

2025 season dates are yet to be announced. Last year, this annual festival took place between January 11 - 18, and features 100 bands across the city, but with many performing in Greenwich Village, the home to many famous jazz clubs.

See the website  for details and tickets. Don't wait to buy them as this event will sell out!

Washington Square Park

This park is the heart of Greenwich Village. It's one of the best places to sit and relax and watch the world go by.

In the 1960s, hippies hung out here and played folk music. Today it's still a place where people gather, sing songs, hang out, and be themselves. 

At the north end of the park is the historic Washington Square Arch, built in 1892 to commemorate the centennial of George Washington's inauguration.

The arch marks the end of Fifth Avenue.

On the southwest corner of the park are the legendary chess tables where Bobby Fischer and other world-famous players have played.

You can even get in on a game if you dare!

Read more about the history of Washington Square Park here .

See The Friends Apartment Building

At the corner of Bedford Street and Grove Street, you may come across a small crowd looking up at a not particularly interesting building.

What makes this building such a famous attraction is that it is where Monica and Rachel lived from Friends , one of the most beloved TV shows of the 1990s.

There is some irony in the fact that Monica and Rachel, who did not have large incomes, lived in Greenwich Village, one of the most expensive neighborhoods in Manhattan.

But fans of the show know the secret of how they were able to afford living here.

Find out by reading our post on visiting the Friends building which also includes other Friends locations in NYC.

Get to Know the West Village on a Tour

We offer several Greenwich Village  pay-what-you-wish tours , meaning that you get to decide how much your experience was worth. 

Several  tourist concession passes  include a free tour of Greenwich Village.

If you prefer to explore the Village at your own pace, use our self-guided Greenwich Village Tour or our GPS-enabled audio tour narrated by one of our tour guides.

Have a Cappuccino at Caffe Reggio

The United States owes a big thanks to this cafe and its original owner, Domenico Parisi, who introduced Cappucino to America in 1902.

It's located at 119 Macdougal Street and worth a visit to sip on a frothy Cappuccino and people-watch on this very lively street.

Afterward, walk south on Macdougal St. to get a sense of what the West Village is all about.

Stroll Down Bleecker Street

Bleecker Street is one of the most popular streets in Greenwich Village, especially when it crosses into the West Village, where there are great restaurants and boutique shopping.

Bleecker Street is named for the Bleecker family who, in 1808, deeded a large part of this farmland to New York City. 

It’s hard to believe this street was part of a farm!

For much of the 20th century, the Village was known as a neighborhood for bohemians.

In the 1950s and 1960s, it was a hub for Beatnik poets and writers like Allen Ginsberg, Jack Kerouac, and William Burroughs. 

The folk music scene blossomed in Greenwich Village in its intimate music venues along Bleecker Street, like The Bitter End.

You can still see great live music here (see the section on Nightlife below).

Some of the best bites to be had in the Village are stops on our pay-what-you-wish  Food Tour of Greenwich Village .

Watch an Off-Broadway Show at the Cherry Lane Theatre

The  Cherry Lane Theatre  opened in 1924 and has presented works by some of the most famous American playwrights including Eugene O’Neill, Sam Shepard, and David Mamet. 

Greenwich Village has several theaters, some almost over 100 years old!

They offer all types of performances and they are generally less expensive than Broadway shows.

See the section on Nightlife below for a listing of other theaters.

Be sure to check our post about how to get concessionary tickets on  Off-Broadway and Broadway shows and plays .

Admire The Historic Architecture

In Greenwich Village, you can find Federal-style homes from the early 1800s as well as Greek-Revival townhouses and the gorgeous Victorian Neo-Gothic Jefferson Market Library from the mid-1800s.

Peek through the gated entrance to Grove Court, located on Grove Street between Bedford and Hudson Streets.  

You'll see several attached three-story Federal houses built in 1847. They are now multi-million dollar condominiums.

At 75 1/2 Bedford Street, you can see the narrowest house in Manhattan. It's just 10 feet (9m) wide!

We stop by many of these historic houses on our pay-what-you-wish tours of Greenwich Village .

Walk Along One of NYC’s Smallest Streets

Snugly fit between Christopher Street and Waverly Place in Greenwich Village is Gay Street.

At just one block long, it is one of NYC’s shortest streets.

In the late 18th century, the street was an alley for horse stables. As horse carriages were replaced by cars, the street widened. 

It was not lengthened though and is one of NYC’s shortest streets. (Read more about other famous streets in NYC ).

The origin of its name is not definitive and one possibility is that it is named after the Gay family that lived in the area. 

It is pure coincidence that Gay Street is in a neighborhood known for its large LGBTQ community.

Eat Your Way Down Macdougal Street

Greenwich Village is known for its food scene. You can find an array of ethnic cuisine here at budget prices, especially along MacDougal Street.

Along Macdougal between West 3rd Street and Bleecker Street are Taco Village (Mexican), Thelewala (Indian), Saigon Shack (Vietnamese), Pommes Frites (Belgian-style French fries), Munchiez (Chinese snacks), Artichoke Pizza and Mamoun’s Falafel.

If you want to sample some of the Village's best food, come on our  pay-what-you-wish  Food Tour of Greenwich Village .

We stop at Artichoke and Mamoun's because they are simply the best on the block!

Can't make our scheduled tour?

You can try our  GPS-Enabled Audio Tour , which can be taken day or night.

Alternatively, you may also want to try a fully guided Greenwich Village Pizza & Gelato tour from the popular company Take Walks.

Below we list some of our favorite places to eat in all price ranges.

See The Stonewall Inn and Gay Liberation Monument

For four days in 1969, the Stonewall was the sight of a riot by the LGBTQ community in response to police actions that paved the way for the Gay Rights Movement in the United States.

Its historic significance makes it a must-see attraction in Greenwich Village. Across the street is a small park with the Gay Liberation Monument.

The monument sculpture by artist George Segal commemorates the historic events at the Stonewall Inn and pays tribute to those who fought against the oppression of the LBGTQ community.

Stonewall is still an operating bar, and a living memorial to the events of June 28, 1969. It's officially a National Historic Landmark.

Read an in-depth history of the Stonewall Inn Riots .

Stop By Carrie Bradshaw's Stoop

For fans of the tv show, Sex, and the City , this is a must-see sight.

Although Carrie Bradshaw lived on the Upper East Side, her stoop is actually a building in Greenwich Village.

Our post about Sex and the City locations explains how to find the building.

Read more about other film locations in Greenwich Village . You are sure to recognize many of them!

Watch Great Basketball for Free

The iconic West Fourth Street Courts are where the best locals come to shoot hoops. 

Nicknamed “the cage” because of the 20-foot chain-link fence around the playing surface. This small non-regulation size court ups the ante and games can get quite intense.

Over the years the Cage has produced NBA stars like legendary Dr. J (Julius Irving), Dwight Howard, Jayson Williams, and Anthony Mason.

Grab a spot along the chain-linked fence for the kind of close-up view you won't get at a professional game. 

The court is at 6th Avenue between West 3rd Street and West 4th Street.

Greenwich Village is the place to go if you’re looking for unique, eclectic, or handmade items.

There are very few neighborhoods in NYC where you can still find old-school record stores selling vinyl.

The neighborhood is also known for its chess shops, conveniently located near Washington Square Park's chess corner mentioned above.

There are also lots of candy shops, small non-chain bookstores, and the oldest apothecary in America, C.O. Bigelow at 414 6th Ave.

Check below for a list of some of the one-of-a-kind shops in Greenwich Village.

Hear Live Jazz

One of the very best venues to hear Jazz is the Village Vanguard  at 178 7th Avenue South.

This renowned jazz club opened in 1935 and John Coltrane and Sonny Rollins were among the long list of performers.

Most shows cost $30+ per person but line-ups are awesome. Reservations are a good idea.

Walk in Bob Dylan's Footsteps

If one name is synonymous with Greenwich Village, it has to be Bob Dylan.

He hung out at cafes, writing songs, and conversing with Beatniks. He got his start performing at small venues like Cafe Wha and the Bitter End.

The cover of his breakthrough album, The Freewheelin' Bob Dylan was photographed on Jones St. in the Village.

Use our self-guided tour of Bob Dylan's Greenwich Village to see Dylan's haunts in the Village.

Visit Nearby Neighborhoods

At the far northwest boundary of Greenwich Village is the entrance to the High Line , an amazing urban park, built on top of an abandoned elevated railroad.

South of Greenwich Village is SoHo and to the east is the appropriately named East Village , both great neighborhoods to spend time in.

Have a Good Laugh at the Comedy Cellar

The Comedy Cellar at 117 MacDougal St. has been showcasing top-notch comedy since 1982. 

Comedians Chris Rock, Aziz Ansari, and Dave Chappelle have performed here. 

Your ticket gets you between five to seven comics performing 20-minute sets.

The chances are good that you’ll see at least one or two hysterical performances.

See more comedy clubs below .

See American Masters at the Whitney Museum

At the southernmost entrance to the High Line at Gansevoort St. and Washington St. is the esteemed Whitney Museum of American Art .

This museum's collection focuses entirely on contemporary American art from 20th and 21st-century artists like Edward Hopper, Jasper Johns, Georgia O'Keefe, and Mark Rothko.

Admission is free on Fridays from 7 pm-10 pm. See our post on other free museums in NYC .

Catch an Independent Movie at the IFC Center

The IFC Center is an arthouse cinema showing first-run independent, foreign, and documentary features across its five screens.

This movie theater regularly has midnights and weekend classics series and occasional repertory series.

It's a popular spot in Greenwich Village for a night of entertainment.

Nibble on World Cheeses at Murray's Cheese

Since 1962, Murray's Cheese has been a prime destination for New York City's cheese lovers.

They have an incredible selection of cheese imported from around the world. Whatever you are craving, Murray's carries it!

Murray's also sells charcuterie meats and all sorts of savory and sweet treats to serve up with your cheese plate.

They even have classes such as "Hands-on mozzarella making" and "The basics of wine pairing". Murray's is not to be missed.

Sing Broadway Tunes at Marie’s Crisis Cafe

For a wacky night out, head to Marie’s Crisis Cafe , for cabaret sing-alongs that last into the wee hours of the morning. 

Marie’s is primarily a gay bar, but not exclusively. Anyone who loves show tunes is welcome!

Marie’s sits on the location where Revolutionary War era American philosopher and political theorist Thomas Paine lived for a while and died in 1809.

The current building was constructed in 1838 and used as a brothel, and eventually just a bar.

It was bought in 1929 by Marie DuMont and the bar became "Marie's".

The Crisis in the name comes from Paine’s pamphlet, The American Crisis . (1776).

Greenwich Village Seasonal Events and Activities

June : IFC Human Rights Watch Film Festival (first week in June); Washington Square Music Festival (Tuesdays in June)

August: Washington Square Park Folk Festival

October : Annual Village Halloween Parade October 31

November : Big Apple Film Festival , Grace Church Christmas Fair

Restaurants in Greenwich Village

Below are some of our favorite places to eat in the Village.

You can get more suggestions and details from our post on 14 Top Greenwich Village Restaurants .

Cheap (under $20)

Bleecker Street Pizza  69 7th Ave. 

Known for their Nonna Maria slice, with a thin crispy crust and fresh mozzarella cheese.

It's so good we stop there on our Greenwich Village Food Tour !

Mamoun's  119 MacDougal St. 

This is the ultimate in cheap, amazingly good Middle Eastern food.

A menu staple for Villagers for over 4o years, you cannot beat the prices and the taste.

Open until 5 a.m. every day!

Saigon Shack  114 MacDougal St. 

Tasty Vietnamese noodles and sandwiches. CASH ONLY.

MIGHTY Bowl  120 Macdougal St. 

Asian fusion, fresh ingredients, served over rice in a bowl 

Kati Roll Company  99 MacDougal St.

Authentic Indian street food. Wraps made of paratha or roti bread filled with flavourful fillings such as grilled meats, cheeses, and vegetables.

Artichoke Pizza 111 MacDougal St.

Their signature slice is a thick-crusted huge slice with a creamy white sauce and pieces of fresh artichoke. Also a stop on our Greenwich Food Tour !

Moderate ($25-$40)

John's of Bleecker Street 278 Bleecker St.  

Serving coal-fired oven pizza since 1929. Pies only, but you will have no problem gobbling down an entire small pie between two people.

Great for families or groups. Cash only. ($$)

Bareburger 535 LaGuardia Place

Big burgers with interesting toppings and combinations. Huge sides of fries or onion rings and milkshakes. 

Las Ramblas 170 West 4th St.

Authentic tapas and sangria are served in a cozy atmosphere that will transport you to Spain.

Top Thai Greenwich 235 Sullivan St.

Tasty Thai food, noodles, vegetables, and curry dishes

Snack Taverna   63 Bedford St.

Greek food like souvlakis, Mediterranean salads, hummus, and spanakopita are served in a bright space.

Buvette 42 Grove St.

Classic French dishes like coq au vin, croque monsieur, salade nicoise. Small portions but excellent flavors.

Jane  100 W. Houston St. 

A casual American bistro serving a value-priced brunch, lunch, and dinner. It can be crowded but worth the wait if you have the time.

Red Bamboo  140 West 4th St. 

A vegan restaurant that makes vegan versions of American classics like buffalo wings and meatball subs as well as Asian food that will fool you into thinking you are eating the real Sweet and Sour Chicken.

Even meat-eaters like the food! 

Expensive ($40+)

Minetta Tavern   113 MacDougal St.

Once the locale of a speakeasy and bar frequented by authors Ernest Hemingway, Eugene O'Neill, and Dylan Thomas.

Serves up Parisian steak in an American tavern environment.  

Lupa   170 Thompson.

Fun trattoria with Tuscan-style Italian dishes in a welcoming atmosphere. 

Loring Place NYC 21 W 8th St.

New American menu with upscale burgers, pan pizza, and pasta. 

Babbo  110 Waverly Place.

Italian cuisine by Mario Batali, a world-renowned restaurateur, and Food Network show host. Reservations are a must. 

Blue Hill   75 Washington Pl.

The menu showcases local food and is located in what used to be a former “speakeasy”. Reservations are a must. 

Things to Do at Night in Greenwich Village

Greenwich Village is one of the most lively neighborhoods in NYC at night and is relatively safe to visit after dark.

For free nighttime entertainment, head to Washington Square Park where you can find buskers and impromptu jams.

Below are some of the best places to hear live music, the best comedy clubs, and the best venues for high-quality off-Broadway productions.

Be sure to also read our guide on things to do in NYC at night .

Blue Note  131 West 3rd St.

This is one of the premier jazz clubs in the world featuring well-known and respected jazz and blues performers.

Be prepared to pay for the excellence of its performances.

Bitter End 147 Bleecker St.

This historic venue opened in 1961 as a cafe with musicians like Joan Baez, Bob Dylan, and Arlo Guthrie played.

You can see a wide range of musical performances and book readings at a very reasonable cover charge in an intimate and historic atmosphere.

Cafe Wha  115 MacDougal St. at Minetta Lane.

From funk to rock, jam out night nightly with the amazing house band. Reservations are recommended.

Read our post  to learn more about this venue where musical legends like Jimi Hendrix and Bruce Springsteen got their start.

Bars and Pubs

Blind Tiger Ale House 281 Bleecker St. 

If you love your craft beer, this is the bar for you. Their menu features 28 craft beers on tap that change regularly as well as a large list of bottled beers. 

Stonewall Inn  53 Christopher St. 

Get a drink in the always festive bar “Where Pride Began”.  Read our post about the  Stonewall Uprising . 

124 Old Rabbit  124 MacDougal St.  

This bar is hard to find since it carries on in the spirit of the Prohibition era of the 1920s and replicates the feel of a ‘speakeasy’. 

Corner Bistro   331 W. 4th St. 

A village favorite for more than 30 years known for serving one of the best burgers in town to go along with your beer.  Low-key, friendly staff.

8th Street Wine Cellar  28 W 8th St. 

A cozy, basement wine bar that carries 20 wines by the glass and 90 wines by the bottle. Serves light food as well.

TIP: Greenwich Village is a prime destination for pub crawls. See our post on the  best pub crawls and bar tours in NYC .

Comedy Cellar   117 MacDougal St. 

Located in a cellar, this comedy club offers a chance to see a full evening of different comics both famous and up-and-coming.

Greenwich Village Comedy Club  99 MacDougal St. 

This is another excellent choice, boasting a full bar and food menu on location.

Our post on free comedy clubs in NYC includes locations in Greenwich Village. Have a look.

Theater 

Cherry Lane Theatre   38 Commerce St. 

New York City’s oldest continuously running off-Broadway theater.

Since 1924, the theatre has presented the works of Eugene O’Neill, F. Scott Fitzgerald, Sam Shepard, and David Mamet.  

Barrow Street Theatre  27 Barrow St. 

Catch an off-Broadway production excellent new play or classic works like  Our Town and Waiting for Godot .

Minetta Lane Theater 18 Minetta Lane

A 300-seat theater that showcases off-beat plays, solo shows, comedy performances and more.

Movie Theaters

The Village has always been a place to find independent cinema.

Here are theaters where you can find indie, classic or foreign films that you won’t find playing in mainstream theaters.

• IFC Center   - 323 Sixth Ave. and West 3rd St.
• Quad Cinema  - 34 West 13th St. bet. 5th  and 6th  Aves.   
• Cinema Village  - 22 East 12th St. bet. 5th  and 6th Aves. 
• Film Forum  - 209 W Houston St. bet. Varick and Sixth Ave. 

TIP: For even more ideas on how to spend an evening in Greenwich Village and other neighborhoods see our post on things to do at night in NYC .

Shopping in Greenwich Village

Some of the best Village shopping can be found along Bleecker St. from LaGuardia Place to Hudson St., 8th St. from Broadway to 6th Ave., and MacDougal St. from West 3rd St. and Bleecker.

The Village Tannery  173 Bleecker St.

This longtime, well-known local store sells handcrafted leather bags, wallets, belts backpacks, tote bags, and laptop bags.

They even take custom orders.  

Though the price range is hefty, these bags will last you many, many years to come. 

Land of Buddha 128 MacDougal St. 

This small shop is one of the few authentic Tibetan/Buddhist stores in the United States.

They specialize in Eastern antiques, jewelry, traditional Buddhist prayer paraphernalia, Tibetan clothing, and Himalayan crafts. 

Hamlet’s Vintage    146 West 4th St.   

When shopping in the Village it is practically mandatory to visit a vintage clothing shop.  

This shop will satisfy vintage connoisseurs due to its array of eras, styles, and reasonable prices. 

Chess Forum  219 Thompson St. 

This shop is the last of a dying breed. Once the Village had a number of chess shops, catering to the chess players who hung out in Washington Square Park, and also a larger clientele as well. 

You too can play for $5 per hour per person. Children always play free. 

C.O. Bigelow   414 Sixth Ave.   

Opened in 1838, the store is the oldest apothecary in America.

This drugstore/cosmetics shop carries its own line of nice-smelling lotions and perfumes as well as everyday items you could buy at a chain store, but it wouldn't be as much fun. 

Generation Records 210 Thompson St.

Selling both newly released LPs and used albums as well, this store focuses on rock, punk, classic, and metal, classic.

Hotels 

Unfortunately, it’s slim pickings when it comes to inexpensive hotels in Greenwich Village. But there are a few nice hotels.

Before you book a hotel for your trip, take a look at our post on Where to Stay in New York City

The Jane 113 Jane Street. This hotel also has shared bathrooms to help keep the costs down (though they do have rooms with private bathrooms). 

Though it is on the outskirts of Greenwich Village, it is located near the High Line and the Meat Packing District in Chelsea.

Incentra Village House   32 Eighth Avenue between West 12th and Jane Sts.

This very small hotel occupies two brick landmark townhouses built in 1841.

Their 11 attractive studios, some with fireplaces and all with private bathrooms, have Victorian charm and modern amenities like air conditioning, television, and coffeemakers. 

Washington Square Hotel 103 Waverly Place between MacDougal St. and Washington Square North. 212-777-9515.

Location, location, location. It doesn’t get better than this in the moderate price range.

The rooms are small but comfortable. With so much to do in the Village, you’ll hardly be in your hotel.

The Marlton   5 West 8th St. bet. 5th and 6th Aves.

This boutique, nine-story hotel is in a prime Village location with cozy rooms in a historic building with lots of character.

How To Get Here

Greenwich Village is located in Downtown Manhattan (also referred to as Lower Manhattan ), just a 10-minute ride from Times Square.

The Village is bordered by 14th Street to the north and Houston Street to the south.

It spans from the Hudson River to the west and Broadway to the east where NoHo and the East Village begin.

The West Village is the part of Greenwich Village west of Sixth Avenue and the Meatpacking District is in its northwest corner.

You can use this Google Maps  link for directions, but how you get here depends on where you are going, as there are several subway stations throughout Greenwich Village.

Multiple subway lines take you to different parts of Greenwich Village. 

• A,B,C,D,E,F trains to West 4th Street Station
• 6 train to Bleecker Street Station or Astor Place Station
• N or R trains to 8th Street - NYU Station

See our posts on Navigating the Subway for some helpful tips.

M3, M8, M20, M55

TIP: Most hop-on-hop-off buses will have a stop near Washington Square Park. To see if a bus tour is right for you, read our post,  Which New York Bus Tour is Best?  

How Much Time To Spend Here

If you want to get a good feel for Greenwich Village, try some great food, do a little shopping, and relax in one of its parks, give yourself a minimum of 3 hours.  

You could easily spend an entire day and night in Greenwich Village by seeing all the sights, eating all 3 meals here, and taking in some night entertainment.

Sample Greenwich Village Itinerary 

This sample itinerary covers a full day of activity with an optional evening out. 

Start your day with a fantastic bagel and coffee at the popular Bagels on the Square .

There’s no seating so take it to go and relax on a bench in Father Demo Square right across the street.

Use our GPS-led audio tour to see the sites in the neighborhood. The tour takes about 90 minutes, not including any time you stop to do some shopping or sit down.

When you are ready for a bite to eat, try Mamoun’s Falafel or Artichoke Pizza Pizza, Both are fast, cheap, and delicious! 

Head to Washington Square Park to relax. Spend some time people-watching and enjoying the buskers and street performers.

If you have the time and energy, you might want to explore one of the adjacent neighborhoods like Chelsea ,  SoHo , or the High Line .

If you want to spend a full day and evening in Greenwich Village see our sections above on restaurants as well as nightlife .

Related Posts

• Pay-what-you-like Greenwich Village Walking Tours
• Pay-what-you-like Greenwich Village and High Line Walking Tour
• Pay-what-you-like Greenwich Village Food Tour

Choose a Destination... I want them all PLUS general travel tips. Amsterdam Berlin Boston Charleston Chicago Dubai Lisbon London Los Angeles Miami Nashville New York City New Orleans Paris Philadelphia Prague Rome San Francisco Washington DC

About The Author

Courtney Shapiro

North america, united kingdom & ireland, middle east & india, asia & oceania.

🙌 Awesome, you're subscribed!

Thanks for subscribing! Look out for your first newsletter in your inbox soon!

Get us in your inbox

Sign up to our newsletter for the latest and greatest from your city and beyond

By entering your email address you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy and consent to receive emails from Time Out about news, events, offers and partner promotions.

Awesome, you're subscribed!

The best of New York for free.

Sign up for our email to enjoy New York without spending a thing (as well as some options when you’re feeling flush).

Déjà vu! We already have this email. Try another?

Love the mag?

Our newsletter hand-delivers the best bits to your inbox. Sign up to unlock our digital magazines and also receive the latest news, events, offers and partner promotions.

• Things to Do
• Food & Drink
• Time Out Market
• Coca-Cola Foodmarks
• Attractions
• Los Angeles

Greenwich Village attractions and museums to visit

Discover the best parks, gardens, libraries and museums Greenwich Village has to offer

Photograph: Alvina Lai

Greenwich Village is home to one of the best New York attractions —Washington Square Park—but there's plenty more to do during the day in the neighborhood. Visit a museum  or have lunch in one of the city's best parks , and make sure to leave time to take a leisurely stroll around the quaint Village streets.

RECOMMENDED: Full guide to Greenwich Village, NYC

Been there, done that? Think again, my friend.

Best things to do in Greenwich Village

1.  washington square park.

• Historic buildings and sites
• Greenwich Village
• 4 out of 5 stars
• Recommended

The hippies who famously turned up and tuned out in Washington Square Park are still there in spirit, and indeed often in person. In warmer months the park—which was once a potter’s field—is one of the best people-watching spots in the city, humming with musicians and street artists, while skateboarders clatter near the base of the iconic 1895 Washington Arch (a modest replica of Paris’s Arc de Triomphe). Plus, kids can splash in the area's fountain on sweltering days.

2.  Pier 45

• Parks and gardens
• West Village

This riverside park is especially popular in the summer, when New Yorkers can catch some rays and often a free outdoor concert, but the views are stunning all year round.

3.  The Stonewall Inn

• price 2 of 4

The birthplace of gay liberation says “yes!” to empowerment and “hell, yes!” to go-go boys. The high-energy dance music draws a mixed, flirty crowd. Drink at one of two bars, or shake your groove thing on the dance floor upstairs. Daytime brings gawking tourists, but the evenings are still for partying. Theme nights include the Latin house party Uncut Wednesdays, but true to the bar’s democratic spirit, everyone is welcome.

4.  The Duplex

• Off-Off Broadway

Setting the pace for campy, good-natured fun (though not classic glamour), the city’s oldest cabaret is still going strong at 55. A generous mix of regulars and tourists laugh and sing along with drag performers, comedians and rising stars in the cabaret room on the second floor. (Special showcases are still in the intimate game room, which is also upstairs and has a separate bar.) In the ground-floor piano bar, the merry singing waitstaff is entertaining enough to avoid charges of gimmickry, and the pianists are often excellent.

5.  New York City Fire Museum

• price 1 of 4

An active firehouse from 1904 to 1959, this museum is filled with gadgetry and pageantry, from late-18th-century hand-pumped fire engines to modern equipment. The museum also houses a permanent exhibit commemorating firefighters’ heroism after the attack on the World Trade Center.

6.  New York Public Library, Jefferson Market Branch

• Libraries, archives and foundations

Though the city's made up of five boroughs, it has just three public library systems. The largest—the NYPL—runs all libraries in Manhattan, Staten Island and the Bronx. Hours at the branches vary wildly, but all have a dedicated section of children's books, and many a separate room for the use of kids up to fifth grade. Storytimes, craft and cultural projects, and poetry writing workshops are just some of the offerings on tap; check the website (nypl.org) for detailed information on each branch.

7.  Jefferson Market Garden

This urban oasis offers city slickers a chance to tiptoe through the tulips—plus a bevy of other botanical delights—from April to October.

8.  Rosemary's

• 3 out of 5 stars

The bambini at Rosemary’s are treated to their own menu of Italian delights like cheese bread with house-made mozzarella and focaccia ($6) and penne with marinara ($9). On cool days, a half grilled cheese sandwich with tomato soup will warm those tummies and prepare them for a yummy bowl of gelato and sorbet ($6). Be sure to grab some Italian cookies for the trek back home ($4).

9.  Children's Museum of the Arts

The CMA's 10,000-square-foot home has more than enough room to house its 2,000-piece collection of international children's art, including a huge center gallery to display it in. Artists lead workshops in classrooms, studios or the media lab, which has a sound station, clay bar and video-making equipment. Kids can work their bodies as well as their minds on the museum's second floor, where they'll find interactive art displays and a ball pit.

10.  Abingdon Square Park

This small park in Greenwich Village is one of the oldest in New York City (the grounds were included in the dowry of Charlotte Warren, who married the Fourth Earl of Abingdon in the mid-18th century). Central Park architect and landscape designer Calvert Vaux helped to redesign the triangular park in the 1880s.

11.  AIA Center for Architecture

• Art and design

Founded in 1857, the AIA New York is the oldest chapter of the American Institute of Architects. The insitute's storefront regularly hosts programs and exhibitions exploring housing, planning, historic preservation, urban design and more.

[image] [title]

Discover Time Out original video

• Press office
• Investor relations
• Work for Time Out
• Editorial guidelines
• Privacy notice
• Do not sell my information
• Cookie policy
• Accessibility statement
• Terms of use
• Copyright agent
• Modern slavery statement
• Manage cookies
• Claim your listing
• Local Marketing Solutions
• Advertising

Time Out products

• Time Out Worldwide

Subscribe to our newsletter

Don't want to miss out on anything for your upcoming trip to New York City? Subscribe to our newsletter and get our latest articles in your inbox!

23 Fun Things To Do in Greenwich Village NYC (+ Map!)

Author --> August 26, 2023

Are you looking for things to do in Greenwich Village, NYC ? Then you’re in the right place! I made this guide with the most fun activities, attractions, must-see sights, and more.

What’s great is that Greenwich Village has something to offer for everyone’s liking. Whether you love listening to music, going to museums, or visiting iconic streets, this beautiful neighborhood has it all.

As there is so much to do and to see, you definitely shouldn’t miss out on Greenwich Village if you’re in New York City. In this Greenwich Village things to do guide, you can find the best activities in the neighborhood.

Best Things To Do in Greenwich Village

Check out the whitney museum of american art.

The Whitney Museum of American Art is a wonderful art museum that you can find in the Greenwich Village neighborhood in New York City’s Manhattan.

This museum has an interesting collection that can be great to check out when you are in Greenwich Village.

The collection consists of all kinds of works of American art from both the 20th and 21st centuries. Moreover, the collection is very diverse and features sculptures, drawings, photographs, and all kinds of other objects.

This permanent collection also includes works by many famous artists such as Keith Haring, Andy Warhol, and Robert Henri.

In addition to that, there are also often temporary art exhibitions with both modern and contemporary art at The Whitney that can be a lot of fun to check out.

Address: 99 Gansevoort St, New York, NY 10014

Listen to Music at the Blue Note Jazz Club

Do you like jazz music? Then, the Blue Note Jazz Club is a great place to check out when looking for activities in Greenwich Village.

This is a jazz club that has been in operation since the year 1981 and it is one of the most iconic music venues in New York City and the world.

In the past, some of the most famous jazz musicians performed at the club, and nowadays it is still a venue to see high-profile jazz artists.

You can go to this venue to listen to great jazz, hip-hop, soul, R&B, and funk music.

What’s great about this venue as well is that you can go here every night of the week and enjoy great live music.

Address: 131 W 3rd St, New York, NY 10012

Go to Washington Square Park

Washington Square Park, one of the best most beautiful parks in the city and one of the best places to have a picnic in NYC, is a great place to check out in the neighborhood.

The park boasts beautiful trees and flowers and makes for a great place for a relaxing stroll when you are exploring the neighborhood.

In addition to that, you can find the Washington Square Arch here, which is an arch that commemorates George Washington, the first president of the United States.

What’s great too is that the park is often home to fun events, such as concerts, that you can attend for free!

Go to IFC Center and See a Movie

This is a great thing to do in Greenwich Village for lovers of independent film. If that sounds like you, you can go to the IFC Center .

This is an art-house movie theater that was opened in 2005. It is a wonderful place to see the best of independent film when you are in NYC, and you can also see foreign and documentary films at the IFC Center.

In addition to that, the IFC Center also boasts interesting events related to film. For example, there are regular classic movie nights, there is also a monthly program with LGBTQ guest curators, and there are sometimes short film screenings.

Furthermore, the movie theater has luxurious seating and you can get amazing organic popcorn at the IFC Center, so you’ll definitely have a great time when you go here.

Address: 323 6th Ave, New York, NY 10014

Go to the Three Lives & Company Bookstore

Three Lives & Company Bookstore is a wonderful bookstore that you can find at 154 West 10th Street.

This independent bookstore is one of the best bookstores in New York City with a wonderful cozy atmosphere and an interesting offering of books.

What’s great as well is that the bookstore has a very knowledgeable staff which you can ask everything you want about the books.

Come here to have a wonderful time and discover a new book that you will like!

Address: 154 W 10th St, New York, NY 10014

Go to Comedy Cellar for Great Comedy Shows

When you are in Greenwich Village, it can be a lot of fun to check out a comedy show. Luckily, there are several options for this in the neighborhood.

One of the best places to check out to have a night full of laughter is Comedy Cellar .

This is one of the best comedy clubs in New York City and it was founded in the year 1982 by Bill Grundfest.

Each show that takes place at the Comedy Cellar consists of about 5 comedians who all perform a short set. This means that you can enjoy a variety of comedy acts when you go here, which is a lot of fun!

In the past, many now-famous comedians performed at the venue, such as Dave Chappelle, Jon Stewart, and Amy Schumer.

Address: 117 MacDougal St, New York, NY 10012

Check Out Titanic. The Exhibition New York

If you want to learn about one of the most iconic ships in history, you can go to Titanic. The Exhibition in New York .

This is a temporary exhibition where you can learn about the story of the famous Titanic, which sank in 1912.

At the exhibition, you can see a lot of historic artifacts that together tell the story of the people onboard.

For example, you can see photographs, handwritten letters, shoes, and much more at the exhibition.

You can find the exhibition at 526 6th Avenue and your visit will take about 85 minutes. To get the best experience, you can do an audio tour at the exhibition that will take you on a tour through what happened in the year 1912.

Address: 526 6th Ave, New York, NY 10011

Go for a Stroll at Jackson Square

One of the most famous parks in Greenwich Village and a great place to check out is Jackson Square. This is a beautiful park with a fountain and lots of trees.

Jackson Square is one of the oldest parks in New York City and it has a history that dates back hundreds of years in the past, but the park was opened in the year 1888.

Jackson Square Park is a lovely place for a relaxing stroll, and there are also a lot of benches that are great for relaxation. Going to Jackson Square Park is also one of the free things to do in Greenwich Village.

See a Show at the New Ohio Theatre

The New Ohio Theatre is a performing arts venue that is located at 154 Christopher Street.

This off-broadway theater produces great independent theater shows and is an award-winning theater for developing new works. The theater is a great place to discover all kinds of theater shows

So if you want to see a unique show, going to the New Ohio Theatre is one of the best things to do in Greenwich Village.

Address: 154 Christopher St #1E, New York, NY 10014

Relax at Pier 46

Pier 46 at Hudson River Park is a wonderful place to relax and this is also one of the best activities that you can do when you are in Greenwich Village. It is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of the neighborhood.

You can find Pier 46 at the end of Charles Street.

The pier boasts great views of the Hudson River and lower Manhattan, and there is beautiful nature to see here.

Also, there is a lawn and there are benches where you can sit down while enjoying the view.

Furthermore, sometimes there are events at Pier 46 that you can attend.

See Art at The Kitchen

The Kitchen in Greenwich Village is an art institution that can be great to check out when you want to see experimental art when you are in the neighborhood.

The institution was founded in the year 1971, and focuses on artist-driven art, including performances, that “cultivate wild thought, risky play”, and experimentation.

There are often temporary exhibitions and great performances that are great if you want to discover something new and be amazed!

Address: 163 Bank St, New York, NY 10014

Listen to Jazz Music at Village Vanguard

A great activity in Greenwich Village for lovers of jazz music is going to the Village Vanguard jazz club. You can find this jazz club at Seventh Avenue South.

This is a venue where you can enjoy beautiful live jazz music. Village Vanguard dates back to the year 1935, but it became a venue dedicated to jazz music in the year 1957, making it the oldest jazz club that is still operating in New York City.

Every Monday night, you can listen to music performed by the Vanguard Jazz Orchestra, and in addition to that, there are other jazz musicians who perform on different nights of the week. Many famous jazz musicians perform at this venue!

Address: 178 7th Ave S, New York, NY 10014

See a Movie at Film Forum

Film Forum is another great spot in Greenwich Village to check out if you like independent film. This is a nonprofit movie theater that is located at 209 West Houston Street.

The movie theater is an iconic place that dates back to the year of its founding in 1970, and it has 4 screens. You can go here every day of the year to see a movie when you are in Greenwich Village.

The films that you can see here include premieres of American independent films and there are foreign art films at the movie theater.

Besides that, there are sometimes special film series at the movie theater. For example, sometimes you can go here to see classic movies.

Address: 209 W Houston St, New York, NY 10014

Check Out Carrie Bradshaw’s Apartment

Do you like “Sex and the City”? Then this activity is incredible if you’re wondering what to do in Greenwich Village.

You can go to “Carrie Bradshaw’s Apartment”. In the series, an address was used that doesn’t exist, but the exterior is real and can be seen in Greenwich Village.

For this, you can go to Perry Street, which is where you can the exterior that was used for several seasons of the series.

Address: 66 Perry Street, New York, NY 10014

Get Delicious Italian Food at Dante West Village

If you want to try out delicious Italian food when you are in Greenwich Village, Dante is a great restaurant to go to.

The restaurant has been operating since the year 1915 and is one of the best restaurants to check out in New York City.

Throughout the years, Dante has had many famous musicians and actors as its guests, while also catering to everyone else. It is a restaurant with a relaxing atmosphere and delicious modern Italian cuisine.

Dante is a great place if you want to have brunch, dinner, or if you are just looking for a place to get a drink. The a la carte menu includes delicious mains and there are several vegan options.

Address: 551 Hudson St, New York, NY 10014

Explore Washington Street

Washington Street in Greenwich Village is a north-south street that is very old. It was named for the first president of the United States, George Washington, and the street’s history goes back to the year 1808.

The street is home to many historic buildings and other structures. For example, you can see the end of the High Line from this street.

Also, you can find Newgate Prison, the Verizon Building, and Washington Street Plaza here.

Go to AIA New York

The American Insitute of Architects, or AIA, can be found in Greenwich Village. This is an institution that was founded by various American architects in the year 1857.

AIA New York is the oldest chapter of the institution, and it is a great place to visit when you are looking for Greenwich Village activities.

You can often attend exhibitions at the institution that are related to architecture and that are very interesting to see.

In addition to that, AIA New York also organizes guided walking tours. These are walking tours that take place outdoors and during them, you’ll go for a walk in New York City to see and learn about beautiful buildings.

Address: 536 LaGuardia Pl, New York, NY 10012

Get Pizza at Bleecker Street Pizza

When you are in New York City and Greenwich Village, it can be great to get some delicious pizza, and luckily you can find one of the best spots for pizza in New York City in the neighborhood.

You can go to Bleecker Street Pizza . This is a pizza restaurant that was founded in 2005 and that makes pizza with only the finest ingredients.

The pizza’s crust is great, the tomato sauce is very tasty, and the toppings are very fresh!

Moreover, there are many different types of pizza to choose from, and when you go here, you should not forget to try the Nonna Maria pizza!

Address: 69 7th Ave S, New York, NY 10014

Get Amazing Ice Cream at Morgenstern’s Finest Ice Cream

Morgenstern’s Finest Ice Cream is also one of the best places to visit when you are in Greenwich Village.

This is an ice cream parlor that makes small-batch ice cream in all kinds of amazing and unique flavors that are great to try. There is a huge variety of flavors to choose from! Furthermore, the texture of the ice cream is amazing.

You can choose from many different types of ice cream at Morgenstern’s flagship ice cream parlor at 88 West Houston Street. For example, you can get cups and cones, ice cream sandwiches, shakes, and other delicious treats.

In addition to that, you can get drinks, including juice and coffee here.

Address: 88 W Houston St, New York, NY 10012

See Washington Mews

Checking out Washington Mews is also a great thing to do in Greenwich Village.

This is a very old private gated street that you can find very close to Washington Square Park. Many historic buildings can be found at the mews and some of these buildings were built about 175 years ago.

Going for a stroll and seeing the buildings of Washington Mews is a fun and relaxing experience, especially if you like architecture. You can also combine going here with checking out Washington Square Park.

See a Movie at the Angelika Film Center & Cafe

Many amazing movie theaters can be found in Greenwich Village, and another one that is worth checking out is Angelika Film Center . This is a movie theater chain with 7 locations in various places in the United States.

You can find the flagship location in Greenwich Village, inside of The Cable Building, which is a historic building that was built at the end of the 19th century and is a designated New York City Landmark.

At this location of the Angelika Film Center, you can see great independent and foreign films.

In addition to that, you can find a great gourmet cafe at the Angelika Film Center. Here, you can get great drinks and treats, which also include vegan options.

Address: 18 W Houston St, New York, NY 10012

Explore Perry Street

Perry Street is one of the most iconic streets in the Greenwich Village neighborhood.

This is the street where you can find the “apartment of Carrie Bradshaw”.

Perry Street is also great for its beautiful architecture. You can find amazing brownstone buildings on Perry Street, which makes the street perfect for a stroll.

Walk Greenwich Street

Greenwich Street, a north-south street in Manhattan, is another one of the neighborhood’s most famous streets.

The street is very old and its history dates back to at least the 1790s.

What’s interesting about this street is that both historic and modern buildings, including skyscrapers, can be found here. In addition to that, the street is home to several great restaurants.

More Manhattan Articles

Things to do on the Upper West Side

Things to do in the Financial District

Things to do in Battery Park City

What To Do in Greenwich Village Tips

If you’re wondering what to do in Greenwich Village, I recommend finding out beforehand if there’s an event happening in the neighborhood that you might want to attend.

For example, you might want to go to a free music festival at Washington Square Park. Or there may be a performance at a theater that you have to see. Also, you might need to buy tickets in advance for certain shows.

Greenwich Village Things To Do Map

This was my list of the most fun activities in the neighborhood. As you see, there are many incredible things to do in Greenwich Village, NYC!

Recent Posts

Don’t want to miss out on anything for your upcoming trip to NYC? Subscribe to our newsletter and get our latest articles in your inbox!

Exploring the Hidden Gems: The Best Places to Visit in Greenwich Village

Discover the Vibrant Charm of Greenwich Village’s Must-See Spots

Greenwich Village’s Enigmatic Allure

Nestled in the heart of Manhattan, Greenwich Village stands as a cultural haven brimming with historic landmarks, artistic flair, and a unique ambiance that enchants both locals and visitors alike. From its cobbled streets to its eclectic boutiques, this iconic neighborhood offers a captivating blend of history, art, and entertainment that’s simply irresistible.

Washington Square Park: Where Art and Life Converge

• The iconic park, bordered by grand arches, hosts an array of street performers, musicians, and artists that infuse the air with creativity.
• A hub for social gatherings and cultural events, the park captures the essence of Greenwich Village’s vibrant spirit.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Matteo "Manga" (@tari_manga)

The Stonewall Inn: A Monument to LGBTQ+ Liberation

• Step into history at the birthplace of the LGBTQ+ rights movement, a site that resonates with the fight for equality and freedom.
• Its unassuming façade belies the pivotal role it played in shaping modern social progress.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by The Stonewall Inn (Official) (@thestonewallinn)

The Village Vanguard: A Jazz Lover’s Dream

• Experience the magic of live jazz at the Village Vanguard, a legendary jazz club that has hosted the greatest musicians of our time.
• The intimate setting and soulful tunes create an unforgettable atmosphere.

Related: Why Every Foodie in New York City is Visiting Instant Noodle Factory This Summer

Blue Note Jazz Club: Where Legends Come to Life

• Indulge in world-class jazz performances at the Blue Note, where acclaimed artists continue to grace the stage, preserving the legacy of the genre.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Don Airey (@donaireykeys)

Gastronomic Exploration at Corner Bistros

• Greenwich Village is a foodie’s paradise, boasting an array of charming bistros and cafes.
• Savor delectable dishes and discover hidden gems that promise culinary delights from around the world.

Bleecker Street: A Shopper’s Haven

• Traverse Bleecker Street’s trendy boutiques, offering everything from vintage fashion to cutting-edge designs.
• A haven for fashion enthusiasts, it’s a testament to the neighborhood’s evolving style.

Unique Bookstores and Art Galleries

• Explore quaint bookstores and art galleries that reflect Greenwich Village’s intellectual and artistic legacy.
• Each nook tells a story, inviting you to get lost in creativity and culture.

Immerse Yourself in Greenwich Village’s Magic

Greenwich Village is a treasure trove that beckons explorers seeking an enchanting blend of history, art, and urban charisma. Its captivating streets, historic landmarks, and artistic vibrancy create an experience that’s quintessentially New York yet wholly unique. As you traverse its charming corners, you’ll find yourself immersed in a world where the past and present intertwine in the most captivating ways.

What do you think?

Written by Iornienge Sunday Aondorumun

Iornienge Sunday Aondorumun is a senior reporter for New York Newbie. He is passionate about showcasing the best of New York City, from its diverse food scene and vibrant entertainment offerings to the must-see sights and experiences. With his in-depth knowledge and engaging writing style, Iornienge provides readers with an insider's view of what makes New York one of the world's most exciting cities.

Why Every Foodie in New York City is Visiting Instant Noodle Factory This Summer

How New Yorkers Are Making Millions on X (Twitter)

© 2022 Made with ♥ by New Yorkers for New Yorkers

Username or Email Address

Remember Me

Forgot password?

Enter your account data and we will send you a link to reset your password.

Your password reset link appears to be invalid or expired.

Privacy policy, add to collection.

Public collection title

Private collection title

No Collections

Here you'll find all collections you've created before.

• New York City Travel Guide

Things to Do in Greenwich Village: Top 23 Most Unique Spots

• June 19, 2024

If you’re in NYC, you’ve got to check out Greenwich Village. This neighborhood is a treasure trove of history and energy. Famous for its nightlife, the Village packs-in restaurants, bars, live music, and comedy clubs. But it’s also got those quiet, narrow side streets lined with historic rowhouses and brownstones that give it a unique charm.

Here’s a quick guide to the top things to do in Greenwich Village, especially in the West Village. Get ready to:

Wander cobblestone streets

Discover secret gardens

Admire vintage brownstones

Savor delicious eats

And relax in some of the best parks in NYC

Historic landmarks like the Stonewall Inn

To the lively arts scene at Cherry Lane Theatre

Greenwich Village has something for everyone—without the typical guidebook fluff.

Ready to explore the best things to do in Greenwich Village, NYC ? Let’s get into it:

Greenwich Village : A historic Manhattan neighborhood with cobblestone streets and a bohemian vibe. It hosts a unique mix of cultural experiences, parks, and a vibrant arts and music scene.

Foodie Heaven : The Village’s culinary scene is a treat. The list includes historic pizzerias like Bleecker Street Pizza to innovative dining spots. Perfect for grabbing a bite between exploring the arts, comedy, and historical sites.

Top Attractions : Check out iconic spots like Washington Square Park and the historic Stonewall Inn. Plus, there’s plenty of shopping, cozy accommodations, and easy access to nearby neighborhoods like Chelsea and Chinatown.

A Brief History of Greenwich Village

Greenwich Village, or simply ‘the Village’, is a historic gem in Lower Manhattan, NYC. This neighborhood in Lower Manhattan has roots stretching back to the 16th century, thanks to Henry Moore. Original locals called it Sapokanikan , meaning “tobacco field.” The Dutch and their enslaved Africans transformed it into pastures. In 1644, eleven Dutch African settlers made history with America’s first Black legal protest. For their efforts, they gained half freedoms and land parcels in today’s Greenwich Village.

The name “Greenwich” first popped up in 1696 in Yellis Mandeville’s will. Fast forward to 1731, Sir Peter Warren started snapping up land. He built a frame house that hosted New York’s General Assembly during smallpox outbreaks in 1739. This historic house lasted until the Civil War era. The street still has echoes in the mid-19th-century rowhouses around it, alongside many homes from the 1830-37 boom.

From 1797 to 1829, New York’s first penitentiary, Newgate Prison, stood in Greenwich Village. The Church of St. Luke in the Fields was established in 1820. And by 1832, the stylish Greek revival rowhouses on Washington Square’s north side were up. They set the trend for Washington Square and lower Fifth Avenue for years.

The Village became a magnet for vibrant, artistic souls and alternative cultures. The area sparked new movements and ideas for generations. It attracted notable residents like:

Winslow Homer

Edward Lamson Henry

And artists from the Hudson River School

Off-Off-Broadway got its start here in 1958 as a rebellious offshoot of Off Broadway, rejecting commercial theatre. Iconic coffeehouses like Caffe Cino and La MaMa were the breeding grounds for this movement. The Blue Note Jazz Club, meanwhile, became a jazz mecca.

Greenwich Village has always been a hotbed for cultural revolutions. It’s most famous for its pivotal role in the gay liberation movement. The Stonewall riots started on June 28, 1969, at the Stonewall Inn. The gay community’s fierce response to a police raid ignited the riots. Today, they are celebrated as the spark that lit the fire for the gay liberation movement and the modern fight for LGBT rights in the U.S.

No LGBTQ+ visit to New York would be complete without a visit to this National Park site in Greenwich Village NYC.

The Best Things to do in Greenwich Village

Greenwich Village is a treasure chest for every kind of explorer. Whether you’re a:

History buff

The Village has something that will tickle your fancy. From Washington Square Park to the gut-busting comedy clubs, every corner of this neighborhood offers a slice of its rich cultural pie.

Ready to dive into the magic of Greenwich Village? Read on to explore the endless attractions and activities waiting for you!

Washington Square Park

If you’re exploring Greenwich Village, you’ve got to start at Washington Square Park. This place is always buzzing with life and crowned by the majestic Washington Square Arch. This iconic arch celebrates the centennial of George Washington’s inauguration and is a must-see.

As you wander through the park, you’ll find street performers, artists, and community events that capture New York’s creative spirit. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, Washington Square Park offers a quintessential Village experience you can’t miss.

Grove Street

Ever wanted to walk through history? Grove Street in Greenwich Village is your chance. Lined with beautiful Greek Revival townhouses and historic buildings, Grove Street is a charming peek into the city’s past. Here, you’ll spot the famously narrowest house in NYC and the Isaacs-Hendricks House, showcasing the Village’s evolution.

Every building on Grove Street has a story to tell. It blends history and charm in a way you won’t find anywhere else, not even on Christopher Street or at the crossroads of north and Houston Street.

Bleecker Street

Bleecker Street is the heartbeat of Greenwich Village’s cultural vibe. Originally a farm road owned by the Bleecker family, it evolved into a lively hub filled with restaurants, cafes, and a legendary music scene. Icons like Bob Dylan and Bruce Springsteen have performed here, making Bleecker Street a historic music landmark.

Today, the echoes of these music legends still resonate. It still attracts visitors to experience the timeless beat of Bleecker Street and soak in its enduring musical magic.

Best Comedy Clubs in Greenwich Village

Craving a good chuckle? Greenwich Village is comedy central! Famous for its lively comedy scene, the Village boasts some of the world’s top comedy clubs, like the legendary Comedy Cellar on MacDougal Street. Here, you might catch big names like Jerry Seinfeld or Dave Chappelle dropping in for surprise sets, leaving audiences in stitches.

If a night of laughter is what you’re after, don’t miss the top-notch comedy clubs in Greenwich Village!

Cherry Lane Theatre

Feel the theatre magic at Cherry Lane Theatre , New York’s longest continuously running Off-Broadway gem. Since its founding in 1924, Cherry Lane has hosted countless performances. It has more than solidified Greenwich Village’s iconic status in the performing arts world.

Whether you’re a theatre buff or just enjoy a good show, Cherry Lane Theatre promises a captivating experience you won’t forget.

Whitney Museum

Dive into contemporary American art at the Whitney Museum . Home to a stellar permanent collection and fascinating past exhibitions dating back to 1931, the Whitney is a must-see. Current highlights include ‘Dyani White Hawk: Nourish’ and ‘The Whitney’s Collection: Selections from 1900 to 1965’.

For art lovers and casual visitors alike, the Whitney Museum offers a unique and enriching artistic adventure.

MacDougal Street

Experience the vibrant culture of Greenwich Village on MacDougal Street. This bustling strip offers a culinary journey from:

Mamoun’s Falafel , NYC’s first falafel sandwich spot

To the delicious flavors of KYU’s Asian cuisine and Raku’s udon dishes

Every eatery and shop on MacDougal Street has a story to tell, blending the street’s rich history with its dynamic present.

Jefferson Market Library & More Architectural Wonders

If you’re a fan of cool architecture, Greenwich Village is worth a wander. The Jefferson Market Library is a real gem, with stunning Gothic Revival design. Stroll through the neighborhood, to see a delightful mix of styles, from Federal to Victorian Gothic.

The Iconic Friends Apartment Building

Calling all ‘Friends’ fans! A visit to the iconic Friends Apartment Building at 90 Bedford Street and Grove Street is a must. This building, immortalized by the beloved TV show, continues to attract fans from around the globe.

Carrie Bradshaw’s Apartment: A Sex and the City Pilgrimage

For ‘Sex and the City’ enthusiasts, Carrie Bradshaw’s apartment is a must-see. Located on Perry Street, this iconic spot became famous thanks to the show’s popularity. Fans can embark on a ‘Sex and the City’ pilgrimage to this stylish location for a quintessential NYC experience.

Riverside Relaxation by the Hudson River

Need a break from the city buzz? Head to the Hudson River at Pier 46 for a peaceful retreat. Here, you can:

Relax and enjoy serene river views

Unwind after a busy day of exploring

Admire the city’s stunning scenery

Experience tranquility and make lasting memories

A visit to the Hudson River offers a perfect blend of relaxation and scenic beauty.

The Historic Stonewall Inn: Birthplace of the Gay Rights Movement

The Stonewall Inn is a cornerstone of LGBTQ+ history, famously known as the birthplace of the gay rights movement. This iconic spot stands tall as a global symbol of civil rights.

Today, it’s a National Historic Landmark, drawing visitors eager to delve into the rich history of LGBTQ+ rights.

Jazz Echoes at Village Vanguard

Step into the legendary world of jazz at the Village Vanguard, NYC’s oldest running jazz club. Here, you can soak in live jazz performances and immerse yourself in the vibrant musical history of Greenwich Village.

Hidden Gems: Discovering Cozy Rooms and Secret Gardens

Greenwich Village is more than its famous spots; it’s a treasure map of hidden gems. From snug little rooms to enchanting secret gardens, the Village is brimming with delightful surprises.

Take a detour from the beaten path and uncover Greenwich Village’s hidden jewels.

Midnight Rocky Horror Picture Show at IFC Center

For a one-of-a-kind movie night, check out the Midnight Rocky Horror Picture Show at the IFC Center. Known for its indie film lineup, the IFC Center’s late-night screenings of Rocky Horror offer a lively, immersive experience you won’t want to miss.

Follow in the Footsteps of George Washington

History buffs, rejoice! Trace the steps of George Washington with a historical walking tour of Greenwich Village. Wander through the neighborhood’s waterfront areas and uncover fascinating tidbits about the city’s past.

Foodie Finds and Great Restaurants in Greenwich Village

Greenwich Village food scene is a foodie’s dream come true. With a rich tapestry of flavors, from gourmet pizza to exotic Asian dishes, the Village offers a culinary journey like no other.

If you’re a culinary adventurer on the hunt for your next tasty treasure, Greenwich Village is your ultimate destination.

A Slice of the Village: Bleecker Street Pizza and More

Pizza lovers, rejoice! Bleecker Street Pizza is a must-visit, famed for its mouthwatering pies that draw in both locals and tourists. This pizzeria is a beloved gem in the heart of Greenwich Village.

But don’t stop at pizza—Bleecker Street has a feast for every taste bud. Enjoy upscale sushi at BONDST or savor the unique Mexican tacos at Casa Bond. Bleecker Street’s culinary scene is a delight for every palate.

Artichoke Pizza: Taste a New York Staple

Artichoke Basille’s Pizza is another must-try in NYC. Known for its hearty, thick slices, this pizzeria is a hit with both locals and visitors. Whether you’re craving their creamy artichoke slice or a classic margherita, Artichoke Basille’s Pizza is a slice of heaven for any pizza fan.

Boutique Shopping Bliss on Famous Streets

Love boutique shopping? Greenwich Village is your paradise. The Village’s famous streets are dotted with unique boutiques offering vintage clothes, artisanal home goods, and more. Whether you’re searching for a special keepsake or just indulging in retail therapy, Greenwich Village is your shopping haven.

Directions to Greenwich Village from Greenwich, CT

Thinking about heading to Greenwich Village from Greenwich, CT ? You could drive and fight all of Manhattan for parking, or take the train to Grand Central Station. From there, take the B train on the Subway to Washington Square.

Hotels, Inns, and Places to Stay in Greenwich Village

After a day of adventure, you’ll need a cozy nook to lay your head. Not feeling the trip back to our Greenwich, CT, bed and breakfast ? Greenwich Village has posh hotels and charming New York City bed and breakfast inns galore. Whether you want luxury or a homey feel, you’ll find the perfect spot in the Village.

The Marlton Hotel

The Marlton Hotel is a favorite among savvy travelers and locals. With its Parisian-inspired rooms and upscale touches, it offers a slice of luxury in the heart of Greenwich Village.

Whether you’re sipping wine by the lobby’s fireplace or enjoying a meal at the hotel’s restaurant, your stay at the Marlton Hotel promises to be unforgettable.

Soho House New York

For a unique stay, check out Soho House New York in the nearby Meatpacking District. This boutique hotel features chic accommodations and a stunning private garden.

From lounging by the rooftop pool to dining at the exclusive members-only restaurant, Soho House offers a distinctive and opulent experience.

Chelsea Pines Inn

Looking for a more laid-back vibe? Chelsea Pines Inn is your spot. This charming New York City inn provides a warm, cozy atmosphere, perfect for a homey getaway. With boutique accommodations and a lovely private garden, Chelsea Pines Inn is a peaceful retreat in the city.

More Neighborhoods to Explore Near Greenwich Village

After soaking in Greenwich Village, why not explore a bit more? Nearby NYC neighborhoods in downtown Manhattan brim with their own charm and are definitely worth a visit. The nearby West Village and East Village are worth exploring.

From the artsy vibe of Chelsea to the bustling energy of Chinatown and the rich history of the Lower East Side, there’s so much more to discover in NYC:

Just a hop from Greenwich Village, Chelsea is known for its lively art scene and historic spots. Explore the High Line, an elevated park with breathtaking city views, or visit the Whitney Museum of American Art for a dose of contemporary art.

For a taste of the East, head to Chinatown. Famous for its busy streets and exotic eats, Chinatown offers a vibrant cultural experience. From dim sum restaurants to historic sites, there’s plenty to discover in this lively neighborhood.

Lower East Side

The Lower East Side is another gem worth exploring. Known for its diverse immigrant roots and rich history, it offers a unique mix of old-world charm and modern flair. Whether you’re into history, art, or just good food, the Lower East Side of NYC has a little bit of everything. Just like the rest of New York City.

Greenwich Village is bursting with experiences, from its rich history and buzzing arts scene to unique foodie delights and boutique shopping. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned local, there’s always a new adventure waiting in the Village. So, what are you waiting for? Start planning your Greenwich Village escapade today!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is greenwich village known for.

Greenwich Village is famous for its bohemian flair, historic landmarks, vibrant arts scene, and being the birthplace of the modern LGBT movement. It’s a lively and historically rich neighborhood.

What are some unique spots to visit in Greenwich Village?

Check out these must-visit spots in Greenwich Village:

Comedy Clubs

Jefferson Market Library

Friends Apartment Building

Stonewall Inn

What food is Greenwich Village known for?

Greenwich Village is a culinary hotspot, known for its gourmet pizza, exotic Asian cuisine, and a wide array of other delicious bites.

Where can I stay in Greenwich Village?

Stay at luxurious spots like The Marlton Hotel and Soho House New York, or cozy up at charming inns like Chelsea Pines Inn. Enjoy your stay!

What other neighborhoods are near Greenwich Village?

Explore nearby neighborhoods like Chelsea, Chinatown, and the Lower East Side for a mix of attractions and cultural experiences.

Related posts:

Leave a Reply Cancel Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Name  *

Email  *

Add Comment  *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

I accept the Privacy Policy *

Post Comment

The 10 most charming spots in the Greenwich Village Historic District

By Andrew Berman

This year marks the 50th anniversary of the designation of the Greenwich Village Historic District on April 29, 1969.  One of the city’s oldest and still largest historic districts, it’s a unique treasure trove of rich history, pioneering culture, and charming architecture. GVSHP will be spending 2019 marking this anniversary with  events, lectures, and new interactive online resources , including a celebration and district-wide weekend-long “Open House” starting on Saturday, April 13th in Washington Square. This is one in a series of posts marking the 50th anniversary of the designation of the Greenwich Village Historic District. Click here to check out our year-long activities and celebrations.

The Greenwich Village Historic District literally oozes with charm; so much so, it’s virtually impossible to come up with a top-10 list. But with no insult to sites not included, here is one run at the 10 most charming sites you’ll find in this extraordinarily quaint historic quarter–from good-old classics like the famous stretch of brick rowhouses on Washington Square North to more quirky findings like the “Goodnight Moon” house.

1. Washington Square North

San Francisco has its painted ladies on Alamo Square, and New York has these lyrical red brick houses on Washington Square. Built in 1832 to house New York’s wealthiest families, they were immortalized in Henry James’ “Washington Square” and Edith Wharton’s “The Age Innocence.” Though the houses appear remarkably intact today, all is not as they seem. Numbers 7 through 13 were actually demolished behind their facades (which were also altered) in 1939 when they were combined and turned into an apartment building. None are still houses, as most are owned and occupied by NYU.  Edward Hopper’s home and studio was located in 3 Washington Square North from 1913 until his death in 1967, in one of those NYU-owned buildings. “The Row” as it is often called is considered the finest collection of Greek Revival houses in New York, nearly all of which maintain their original iron fences in front and stone Greek Revival entryways and stoops.

2. MacDougal Alley and Washington Mews

These two charming back alleys are lined with quaint structures that abut the houses of Washington Square North and what were once the grand houses of 8th Street. While popular lore says these were built as stables for the fine manses they bordered, as on Washington Square North, not all is what it seems here. While some of these structures were indeed built as stables, others were actually automobile garages, and some were built as apartments from the beginning, merely mimicking the “stable” look of their neighbors.

Washington Mews, located between Fifth Avenue and University Place, is gated at both ends, though the gates are generally left open to allow public access. Nearly all of its buildings are owned or occupied by NYU. MacDougal Alley, on the other hand, located between 5th Avenue and MacDougal Street, is almost always locked at its western end, and the eastern end is permanently blocked by the mass of the large white-brick apartment building at 2 Fifth Avenue. Some of its buildings are in fact residences, while others are extensions of the New York Studio School on 8th Street or the NYU-occupied houses on Washington Square.

3. Jefferson Market Library and Garden

The  Jefferson Market Library , constructed in 1874-77, was “one of the ten most beautiful buildings in America,” according to a poll of architects conducted in 1885. The Ruskinian Gothic structure, originally a courthouse, is considered one of the finest examples of High Victorian architecture in America. It was designed by Frederick Clarke Withers and Calvert Vaux, the latter the co-designer of Central Park. When built, the courthouse was part of a complex of buildings that included a prison and a market, which occupied the remainder of the trapezoidal block upon which it is located.

The building’s quirky, eccentric design has long been beloved by Villagers. So much so that they rallied mightily in the 1950s and ’60s to save the building from demolition and have it repurposed as a library, one of the signature preservation victories in New York after the tragic loss of the original Penn Station.

While the building’s architecture may have been beloved, the activities associated with it were not always so well-regarded. For decades it functioned as the courthouse for a district that included the city’s most crime-ridden neighborhood, the Tenderloin. Its clocktower was used as a fire watch lookout, and its bells regularly rang to warn of nearby conflagrations.  After World War II, it was converted to a police academy, and for years after that, it was left empty and used only by pigeons and rats.

But Villagers saved their true disdain for the building which occupied the remainder of the block adjacent to the courthouse beginning in 1929, the  Women’s House of Detention . An Art Deco behemoth intended to embody a more enlightened approach to incarceration, it soon became known for its horrible conditions, the abuse suffered by detainees, and the loud and sometimes vulgar interactions between prisoners and passersby or visitors on the street outside (the jail had operable windows).

In 1973 the “House of D,” as it was sometimes called, was demolished to make way for the bucolic and pastoral  Jefferson Market Garden , a stunningly green oasis footsteps from the hubbub of Sixth Avenue. Its verdant plantings are maintained by a volunteer community group, and while fenced off, the grounds are regularly open to the public for its enjoyment.

Tiny one block long  Gay Street  attracts as many visitors for its delightfully intimate scale and architecture as it does for its curiosity-inducing name.  Laid out in the early 19th century, the diminutive crooked street features federal-style houses on its west side built in the 1820s, and Greek Revival-style houses on its east side built in the 1830s, after the street was widened around 1830 and the houses on the east side were demolished.  But it’s not just these quaint early 19th century houses which make the street so beloved.  The converted factories at its northern end, and the setback wedding cake top of One Christopher Street which hovers over the bend in the street when viewed from the south, all add to the street’s picturesque and romantic feel.  While the street is located just feet from the Stonewall Inn, the birthplace of the modern LGBT rights movement, the street’s name is merely a serendipitous coincidence.

5. Grove Court

Perhaps the most photographed site in Greenwich Village and its historic district is the delightfully surprising Grove Court. Like many streets in the Village, Grove Street east of Hudson Street bends, thus leaving a gap between the houses at numbers 10 and 12, with an unusually deep opening behind them.

Filling that space is Grove Court, a collection of tiny houses behind a private gate and triangular courtyard. Built in 1852-54 as workingmen’s cottages on the rear yards of the 1820s Grove Street houses in front, these are now among the most sought-after residences in New York – at least for those who are willing to live in less than 1,000 square feet. In the 1920s, they were renovated and began to be marketed to artists and those who wished to live among artists in Greenwich Village.

6. “The twins” – 39 and 41 Commerce Street

The twin houses at 39 and 41 Commerce Street are, like many sites on the list, the subject of considerable lore, not all of it true. Originally built in 1831-32 by milkman Peter Huyler, the houses are often reputed to have been built for sisters who refused to speak to one another, and insisted upon a wide yard separating their homes. In fact, in the early 1830s when this area was first being developed, a yard or open space around houses was neither uncommon nor necessarily indicative of a family dispute.  What is unusual is that unlike many of these other open spaces (such as today’s Grove Court), the yard here was never built upon, for reasons not entirely clear (prior to 1969, that is; the designation of the Greenwich Village Historic District would have of course made approval of the destruction of such an iconic feature of the district nearly impossible).

While the generous yard between the two houses has not changed over the years, in the 1870s they had their mansards roofs we see today added, which along with the yard are probably their most beloved feature. Like much of the Village, 39 and 41 Commerce Street don’t look as though they could possibly exist in New York and are often used as a stand-in for Paris or other European locations on film shoots.

7. Cobble Court/The “Goodnight Moon House,” 121 Charles Street

Speaking of not looking like it belongs, the tiny white clapboard house behind the gate and large yard at the northeast corner of Charles and Greenwich Streets is adored by those who know it and often inspires a double-take by those who don’t. Rumored to be a miraculous remnant of an 18th-century farm once covering the area, the house’s survival here is indeed a miracle, but its story is decidedly different.

Likely built at the beginning of the 19th century, the house was located behind 1335 York Avenue, between 71st and 72nd Street in Yorkville until it was threatened with demolition in the 1960s. The building had operated as a dairy, a restaurant, and of course a residence, but since 1869 had been separated from the street by a front structure and a courtyard paved with cobblestones, from which its name “ Cobble Court ” is derived. The building was also used as a residence, most notably by Margaret Wise Brown, who wrote the classic “Goodnight Moon” while living there in the 1940s, as well as “Mister Dog,” which features the house.

In 1965 the home was sold to the Archdiocese of New York, which planned to demolish it for a nursing home. But the tenants of the house, Sven and Ingrid Bernhard, who had renovated the historic property, refused to give up their beloved domicile.  They went to court and won ownership of the building (though not the land), and were given six months to find a new home for it.

With the help of an enterprising architect, some elected officials sympathetic to the preservation battle, and community leaders in Greenwich Village, a new home was found for the house at a lot on the corner of Charles and Greenwich Streets. Transporting the fragile, antique structure on a flatbed truck through the streets of New York and getting it to its destination intact was a virtually unprecedented feat at the time. But the house arrived unharmed and has remained at this location with just minor alterations and additions for more than the last fifty years.

8. 75 ½ Bedford Street/”The narrowest house in the Village”

75 ½ Bedford Street was built on what was one of those courtyards or alleyways between houses that were once commonplace in this area, but have almost entirely disappeared. The houses to 75 ½’s north and south were built in 1799 and 1836, respectively. By 1873, when this neighborhood was transforming from a genteel middle-class suburb to a teeming immigrant district, the land between the two houses had been sold to Horatio Gomez, who erected the nine-and-a-half-foot wide house we see on the site today. The steeped Dutch gabled roof dates to this era, while the casement windows, associated with  artists’ studios , date to a 1920s renovation when the neighborhood was transforming again to attract writers and painters.

One of the first occupants of the reborn house was none other than Pulitzer Prize-winning Village poet Edna St. Vincent Millay, who lived here from 1923-24, just after she published her famous poem “My candle burns at both ends.”

The house is known as the narrowest in the Village and thought by some to be the narrowest in New York City, though there is  some dispute  about that claim.

9. Where Waverly Place intersects with itself

One of the charming quirks about Greenwich Village is its meandering, eccentric street pattern. The confusing and often seemingly erratic pattern emanates from the continued existence of streets laid out prior to the Manhattan Street grid based upon family farms and relationship to the Hudson River waterfront and the imposition of standard gridded streets on top of them in some locations. The renaming or numbering of old streets to try to reconcile the two further adds to the confusion, by for instance resulting in West Fourth Street at some points running north of West 12th Street.

But perhaps no idiosyncrasy of the Greenwich Village street pattern is more charming than the peculiar fluke of Waverly Place intersecting with itself, just south of Christopher Street, between Grove and Gay Streets. Named in 1833 after the recently-deceased Sir Walter Scott’s novel “Waverly” about the 1745 Jacobite Revolution in Scotland, Waverly Place is an east-west street from its eastern origin at Broadway, though known as Washington Square North between University Place and MacDougal Streets. But west of Gay Street it splits into two branches, with one continuing west a few yards and terminating at Grove Street, with another veering sharply to the northwest, and continuing onward until its abrupt end at Bank Street. This results in a single Greenwich Village block bounded by the intersection of Waverly Place, Waverly Place, Grove Street, and Christopher Street.

Adding to the curious appeal is the building which occupies this unusual block where Waverly Place meets itself. The triangular (trapezoidal, actually, if you count a chamfered corner) Northern Dispensary, erected in 1827, is one of Greenwich Village’s strangest mysteries. The building has been empty for more than 30 years but has a colorful past. Built on land donated by the city with the stipulation that it only serve the indigent poor who could not afford medical care, it was known as the “Northern Dispensary” because it was where such care was dispensed to those in need, at what was then the northern edge of New York. One of its most famous patients was a down-on-his-luck Edgar Allan Poe, who came in 1837 complaining of a winter cold.

From the 1960s through the 1980s it was a dental clinic, but it shut its doors when it refused to treat patients with AIDS. The Archdiocese of New York then purchased the property and sought to locate a hospice for people with AIDS in the building, but that plan was scuttled. In the late 1990s, the building was sold to William Gottlieb, who died a year later. His family is yet to develop or occupy the historic structure.

10. St. Luke’s Place

The southernmost street in the Greenwich Village Historic District is no doubt also one of its most picturesque. The one block of Leroy Street between Seventh Avenue South and Hudson Streets not only has a special name, but a special character, complete with and gentle bend in the street, a lyrical arrangement of Italianate houses built as an ensemble between 1851 and 1854, and a shaded park across the street.

The 15 brick houses with prominent brownstone trim, decorative ironwork fences, and grand stoops capped by neo-classical entryways, have sheltered some prominent residents over the years. The revolutionary Max Eastman lived at no. 11 in 1920, while Theodore Dreiser began writing “An American Tragedy” while living at no. 16 in 1923. “Gentleman” James “J.J.” Walker (for whom the park across the street, a cemetery in the 19th century, is now named) lived at no. 6 in 1926 when he was elected Mayor.  The celebrated poet Marianne Moore lived at no. 14 in the 1920s, while the artist Paul Cadmus scandalized the art world in 1934 while living at no. 5 with his homoerotic painting “The Fleet’s In.”

The street gained further renown in 1967 when no. 5 served as the setting for the Audrey Hepburn suspense-thriller “Wait Until Dark,” and attracted even further attention in the 1980s after the exterior of no. 10 and neighboring houses were used as the setting for ‘The Cosby Show.’

A version of this article originally appeared in  6sqft .

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

The resource for Travel Gear Reviews

Things to Do in Greenwich Village NYC: A Self-Guided Walking Tour

February 13, 2020 By Thither Staff 1 Comment

Greenwich Village in NYC is one of the most picturesque neighborhoods in the city. Walking around the neighborhood without a map is the way I’ve found some of my favorite streets, restaurants and facades for photographing.

If it’s your first time visiting the neighborhood, you might feel overwhelmed. There’s so much to see and do, so I’ve put together this self-guided walking tour of Greenwich Village as a starting point. Plus, I’ve included a load of other things to do in Greenwich Village that you can add to your walking tour or save for another time. 

Contents 

• How to Get to Greenwich Village 
• Where to Stay in Greenwich Village

A Self-Guided Walking Tour of Greenwich Village NYC

• Nightlife in Greenwich Village

Shopping in Greenwich Village

More cafes in greenwich village.

• More Restaurants in Greenwich Village

More NYC Resources

How to Get to Greenwich Village

Almost all subway lines will take you to Greenwich Village.

The B, D, F, M and A, C, D trains will get you to the heart of Greenwich Village at West 4 Street – Washington Square station.

The R and W train will take you to 8 St – NYU station and the 6 train will take you to Bleecker St station, both at the eastern border of the neighborhood.

Read More: The Ultimate NYC Subway Guide for Tourists by a Local  

(back to top)

Where to Stay in Greenwich Village 

If you don’t want to commute into Greenwich Village and prefer to stay in the neighborhood, here are a few hotels:

For Maritime History: The Jane Hotel

Located right by the Hudson River, The Jane Hotel is a boutique style hotel with friendly staff stays true to its maritime history. It was originally built in 1908 (and designed by the same architect as Ellis Island’s immigrant station) for sailors with cabin-like rooms and was where 1912 survivors of the Titanic stayed during the American inquiry into the sinking of the Titanic. 100 years later in 2008, the hotel was restored with a similar sea vibe.

Closest to Washington Square Park: Washington Square Hotel 

Washington Square Hotel is located just steps away from Washington Square Park. The hotel was built in 1902 and has expanded since, while hosting several famous guests including author Ernest Hemingway, and performers like Albert King who performed at local Greenwich VIllage clubs, Bo Diddley, Chuck Berry, The Rolling Stones and Bob Dylan.

Modern Luxury: Walker Hotel Greenwich Village

For a luxury option, choose the Walker Hotel Greenwich Village . Located at the northern border of Greenwich Village, the hotel also has easy access to Union Square Park. It’s exterior is inspired by the 1920s Georgian revival towers found on Fifth Avenue and inside you’ll find Art Deco inspired decor.

A fun way to explore Greenwich Village is just walking around the neighborhood without a map. This is how I’ve found some of my favorite restaurants and streets in the neighborhood. But if it’s your first time visiting, use this as a guideline for your own self-guided walking tour of Greenwich Village. 

Walking to all of these spots is about 1.5 miles long and if you walk without stopping, it will take around 30 minutes. But plan on spending time taking photos, going inside the shops and restaurants and possibly taking some diversions if you see something interesting on another street or want to see one of the other nearby suggestions I’ve listed with each stop.

Let’s go! 

Start at Caffe Reggio

Caffe Reggio is known as the first cafe in the United States to serve cappuccino and has been open since 1927. Stop here for a cappuccino and have it topped with whipped cream. And if coffee isn’t your thing, Caffe Reggio also serves other beverages and is open all day for breakfast, lunch and dinner for soups, salads, sandwiches and other Italian dishes and desserts.

Address: 119 MacDougal St, New York, NY 10012 

Washington Square Park

Washington Square Park is home to the iconic Washington Square Arch, an arch commemorating President George Washington’s inauguration. Note the resemblance of the arch. It was modeled after the Arc de Triomphe in Paris. On a warm day, sit by the fountain in the middle of the park and watch as locals rush to their next appointments or performers lure in crowds with music and dance. In popular culture, this park was the setting of Henry James’ book Washington Square and has served as a filming location for movies like When Harry Met Sally .

Address: Washington Square N, New York, NY 10012 

NYU and Washington Mews

You’ll see purple flags bearing the New York University’s logo on a few buildings around Washington Square Park. This is because you’re in NYU’s Greenwich Village campus. One part of the campus to note is Washington Mews. This is a picturesque row of houses on a cobblestone street that were originally used as horse stables for those who lived in nearby townhomes. It’s now used as NYU housing and offices.

Address : Washington Mews (between 5th Ave and University Pl)

Electric Lady Studios

Electric Lady Studios is a recording studio started by Jimi Hendrix. It was originally a nightclub that Hendrix performed at. Since opening in 1968, it’s the oldest working recording studio in New York City. You can’t go inside and tour as it is a working studio, which was where Taylor Swift’s Lover album was recorded in addition to some of the latest albums by Lana Del Rey, The Kills, Daft Punk and Adele. (You can also see where Taylor Swift rented a townhome in the West Village nearby on Cornelia Street, which she named one of her songs after.)

Address : 52 W 8th St, New York, NY 10011

Nearby : Mark Twain House at 14 W 10th St is where author Mark Twain lived for a year and is known to be haunted. 

Jefferson Market Library

Jefferson Market Library is a Victorian Gothic style building that’s part of the New York Public Library system. It was originally built in 1875 as a courthouse and designed by one of the architects that assisted in the design of Central Park, Calvert Vaux. Go inside and see the brick-arched basement, which was where prisoners were once held.

Address : 425 6th Ave, New York, NY 10011

Gay Street 

Gay Street is a slightly angeled street that’s lined with colorful buildings and stoops, making it one of the most photogenic streets in the West Village. (Another slightly angled photogenic street is Minetta Street, near Caffe Reggio.)

Address : Gay Street (between Waverly Pl and Christopher St)

Nearby : After you’ve taken some photos at Gay Street, nearby places of interest are Three Lives and Co, a cozy neighborhood bookstore with a red facade, and across the street, Van Leeuwen Ice Cream known for their vegan ice cream. Also, one street over is Dominique Ansel Kitchen, by the maker of the Cronut pastry – part croissant, part doughnut (though to get that, note you’ll need to go to their other location in Soho.)

Read More: A Bibliophile’s Guide to the Best Bookstores in NYC 

Stonewall Inn 

Stonewall Inn isn’t just a gay bar. It’s a National Historic Landmark, as this was the site where the gay rights movement was launched in 1969. It’s open every day until 4 am with different entertainment themes every night. Come back and stop by during one of the events that starts at around 10 pm and try The Stonewall Inn IPA made especially for Stonewall Inn by Brooklyn Brewery.

Address: 53 Christopher St, New York, NY 10014

Olio e Piu 

If you’re doing this self-guided walking tour around lunchtime, stop for a meal at Olio e Piu, serving authentic Italian cuisine. They offer an open patio area overlooking Jefferson Market Library, great for having a meal and people watching especially during warmer months. But if it’s cold, stay indoors in the rustic dining area with a traditional wood-fired oven. Other popular places to eat nearby are Rosemary’s (another Italian restaurant), Buvette (a French bistro) and Jeffrey’s Grocery (for seafood.)

Address : 3 Greenwich Ave, New York, NY 10014

Grove Court and the Friends Apartment  

Are you a fan of the TV show Friends ? Though the show was set in New York City, a lot of the show was actually filmed at a studio in California. However, you can see what was used as the exterior of the Friends apartment, which is actually in New York on Bedford Street. The red facade is actually a restaurant, Little Owl. And down the road on Grove Street, look for a gate which encloses a photogenic courtyard and million dollar townhomes called Grove Court.

Address : 90 Bedford St, New York, NY 10014

Other notable filming locations in the West Village include 64 Perry Street, Carrie Bradshaw’s apartment in Sex and the City and 10 Leroy Street, The Cosby Show house.

See the oldest house in Greenwich Village at 77 Bedford Street with a wood frame. Built in 1799, it was a free standing residential home.

Address : 77 Bedford St New York, NY 10014

Walk on Bleeker Street

Like the rest of Greenwich Village, Bleeker Street has lots of beautiful facades. Make your way towards Murray’s Cheese Bar, located on Bleeker Street. Murray’s was founded in 1940 and is known for its huge selection of cheeses, accoutrements, cheese classes and Murray’s Melts for a delicious Classic Melt.

Address : 254 Bleecker St, New York, NY 10014

End at Washington Square Park 

And now you’ve made it back to Washington Square Park. 

More Things to Do in Greenwich Village NYC

End your self-guided walking tour of Greenwich Village at Washington Square Park, or check out some more things to do in the neighborhood: 

Nightlife in Greenwich Village 

• New York’s longest continually running Off-Broadway theater.
• The second oldest pub in New York City since 1880 and popular with writers and artists in the 1950s.
• For a large selection of craft beer, including 12 craft beer taps and 80-120 bottles and cans of American craft beer.
• A popular club for live music and where Bob Dylan and countless other performers got their start.

• You’ll find a ton of vintage shops all over the West Village. Check out The Upper Rust at 143 7th Ave S for decor and other items and Housing Works at 245 W 10th St. 
• Stop by Pink Olive West Village at 30 Charles St for fun and whimsical paper goods, home decor, candles and exclusive Pink Olive products, including unique NYC postcards. 
• Stock up on tea and coffee at McNulty’s Tea & Coffee Co. Located on 109 Christopher St since 1895, it’s a cozy shop filled with sacks of coffee and chests of tea all over the shop. You can also a cup of tea or coffee to go. 

You’ll easily get your caffeine fix at cafes all over Greenwich Village. Here are just a few:

• This is Manhattan’s first board game cafe. They have all the classic board games like Monopoly and Risk, and other new ones you might not have heard of. Play a game and enjoy a latte or tea. 
• There are Bluestone Lane locations around the city, but this Bluestone Lane on Greenwich Ave is larger with outdoor seating. 
• For all things matcha, Chalait sources their matcha directly from the finest producer of matcha in Japan. They also serve breakfast, sandwiches and grain bowls. 

More Restaurants in Greenwich Village 

There are countless restaurants in Greenwich Village. Here are just a few:

• For hearty slices of pizza, Artichoke has a few locations around NYC including in Greenwich Village. Get a slice of their artichoke pizza – artichoke hearts, spinach, cream sauce, mozzarella, and Pecorino Romano cheese.
• Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner for classic Italian dishes. Also known for their weekend brunches d and espresso and cappuccino bar.
• A favorite for Instagrammers, this bright and airy restaurant serves brunch and dinner and also has the perfect marble tabletops and pink chairs for Instagram. 
• Having a meal at Blenheim is truly a farm to table experience. The restaurant makes their dishes using ingredients from their 150 acre farm, Blenheim Hill Farm in the Catskills.
• A bit of Paris in NYC, A.O.C. serves classic French fare. Don’t miss their outdoor garden for outdoor dining in summer. 

• What to Wear in NYC: A Packing List 
• Best Free Museums in NYC 

Recent Posts

• At Home? 10 Ways to Commemorate Your Past Trips
• Noise Isolating Bluetooth Earbuds: ISOtunes FREE Review
• 10 Eco Friendly T Shirts for the Sustainable Traveler
• 15 Best Travel Board Games for All Ages
• Solo New York Restore Tote Review: An Eco Friendly Bag for Urban Travelers

June 14, 2020 at 1:36 am

Would love to visit! Sounds nice area of NY to be in.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Greenwich Village in New York

What to see & do in greenwich village.

Greenwich Village is a New York district with an atmosphere quite different from the other districts of the city. With its quiet streets and red-brick houses, The Village is a charming neighbourhood much appreciated by artists for its bohemian atmosphere.

History of Greenwich Village

Greenwich Village was built on a former swampy area by the first Dutch settlers who came to the area in the first half of the 17th century. For a long time, the village developed rather slowly, and remained separate from Manhattan  and New York.

It was not until the early 19th century, following the yellow fever epidemic that drove New Yorkers to Greenwich Village, that the development of this borough of New York accelerated.

Many wealthy New Yorkers, who had moved to Greenwich, built beautiful homes there in the classic old New York style. Later, the wealthier population migrated further north, and immigrants from Ireland, Italy and China settled in large numbers in Greenwich Village.

The birth of New York's Bohemian Quarter

During the second half of the nineteenth century and the first half of the twentieth century, rent prices in Greenwich were much lower than in many other parts of Manhattan and New York, attracting many artists who wanted to live a   bohemian  existence.

The atmosphere in Greenwich therefore quickly changed, and it soon became a place where artists felt inspired and totally free to practice their art as they saw fit. Famous names in painting and literature, such as Mark Twain ,  Salvador Dali and Andy Warhol , lived in Greenwich.

From 1950 onwards, Greenwich also became an important place for music. Major artists such as Bob Dylan ,  Jimi Hendricks  and  Bruce Springsteen made their debuts here. Jimi Hendrix even built the Electric Lady studio – his legendary recording studio – at 52 West 8th Street — Greenwich Village.

Greenwich today

Today, The Village, as it is known to New Yorkers, is famous around the world.

Although rents have risen dramatically in recent decades, the neighbourhood has remained a symbol of artistic flourishing and bohemian lifestyle.

The beautiful homes and high quality of life in the area have made Greenwich one of the most desirable areas in Manhattan. Although the population living in Greenwich has become much more middle-class, the neighbourhood has retained much of its identity. It is still an avant-garde , cutting-edge area with a relaxed atmosphere and a vibrant nightlife.

The influence of Greenwich Village on television and cinéma

This modern artist's neighbourhood, with its typical buildings and numerous green spaces, is quite representative of trendy New York life in the eyes of the general public. Countless novels, films and TV shows are set in Greenwich Village.

The legendary series Friends takes place almost entirely in The Village , and if you walk in Greenwich, you can even see the building occupied by the show's characters. The district is also the setting for many other series and films, such as Sex and the City, Ghostbusters and Doctor Strange.

In Men in Black 2 , a humorous nod is given to Greenwich's reputation as an open and contrarian neighbourhood, when a receptionist tells the aliens that Greenwich is the only place they can walk in during the day.

You have the opportunity to discover this area with a local guide who will show you the different sites during a short 2-hour tour. 

TO DISCOVER GREENWICH VILLAGE WITH A LOCAL GUIDE, CLICK HERE

Places to discover in Greenwich Village Les lieux à découvrir à Greenwich Village

Washington square park.

There are several parks in the neighbourhood, but Washington Square Park is by far the most interesting. It is also the largest and probably one of the most beautiful parks in New York. Historically, the centre of the park was a site of public executions. Fortunately, that past is long gone and today the park is a great place to relax and enjoy a beautiful day. Surrounding the park are some of the buildings of the  New York  University , which has a total of nearly 60,000 students. You can also visit the Grey Art Gallery, the university's art museum, which houses exhibitions from all over the world.

I mentioned earlier the influence Greenwich had on popular culture and especially on cinema. There is little doubt that you have seen this park in a film. In fact, you may well come across a film crew at work during your visit to Washington Park Square! 

You will also encounter musicians and street performers who will liven up your walk. The chess players on the park benches are also a symbol of Greenwich.

The park's main landmark is the Washington Square Arch,  a triumphal arch built to mark the centenary of President George Washington 's inauguration.

The Ground Zero Museum Workshop

This museum is dedicated to the victims of 11 September 2001, but is very different from the National September 11 Memorial & Museum , located on the site of the former Twin Towers. Here you can take a guided tour of a small, more intimate museum, founded by Gary Marlon Suson, the former official photographer for the New York Fire Department.

He was the only photographer allowed to take pictures during the rubble removal operations. All of Ground Zero Museum Workshop ’s photographs and artefacts are housed in one room, and the guide responsible for telling you anecdotes and stories about some of the artefacts will give you a whole new perspective on the events of 9/11. Ground Zero Museum Workshop  sont réunis dans une seule pièce, et le guide chargé de vous raconter des anecdotes et des histoires sur certains de ces objets vous permettra de découvrir les évènements du 11 septembre d’un œil nouveau.

Greenwich Village's famous streets and places

Today, the flat from the series Friends is one of the most famous places in television history, and it has also become one of the most iconic places in Greenwich Village. You can find it at 90 Bedford Street.

Another cult flat from a TV show is Sex and the City heroine Carrie Bradshow's apartment at  66th Perry Street .

St Mark Place is a famous and historic street. It was for a long time a place where artists, poets and musicians met. It was one of Andy Warhol's favourite places, and an important part of graffiti history. It also made rock history in 1975, when two of its buildings appeared on the cover of Led Zeppelin's fifth album: Physical Graffity . 

shopping in Greenwich Village

In a trendy area with a lot of artists, you're bound to find designer boutiques , often with cutting-edge collections. But in Greenwich, you'll actually find a lot of shops and boutiques of all kinds.

Bleecker Street is one of New York's most unique shopping destinations, with many clothing and fashion accessory shops. On the first part of this street, between Father Demo Square and Christopher Street, you can find small vintage shops that often offer items at particularly good prices. Further along the street, as far as Bleecker Playground, you will find all the big brand and designer shops, offering luxury items.

Eating in Greenwich Village

If you want to eat in one of the most typical places in the Village, head to The Corner Bistro . This restaurant is definitely one of the most popular places in the area, and you can enjoy delicious burgers there.

For a more classic meal, you can go to Olio e Piú on Greenwich Avenue – an Italian restaurant that is one of the most popular in New York.

If you're feeling peckish while exploring the area, you can go to   Magnolia Bakery . This little Greenwich bakery is actually the oldest shop of what is now one of the city's largest bakery and pastry chains.

Speaking of bakeries, you can take a walking tour of the neighbourhood to see the best cupcake bakeries. Great for learning about the history of Cupcakes in Manhattan as well as the craze people have for this pastry – but also for touring the neighbourhood itself and, of course, sampling some true gems 😋 

Going out in  Greenwich Village

In Greenwich Village, there are many small music clubs where you can have a memorable evening – especially if you like jazz. At clubs like the Fat Cat , Blue Note Jazz Club  and  Marie’s Crisis Cafe , talented musicians perform every night. Admission is free, and you'll just have to buy something to enjoy the show.

Bleecker Street  is not just a shopping street – it is actually best known for its bars and nightclubs. Some of New York's most famous clubs, such as The Bitter End  and  The Village Gate , are located on this street. It is definitely the place to go if you want to experience Greenwich Village at night!

How to get to Greenwich village ?

This residential area of New York is located in the southwestern part of Manhattan . It is surrounded by Soho  to the south, East Village to the east and Chelsea to the north. To the west, the neighbourhood is bordered by the Hudson River.

To get to Greenwich Village, you can take the New York Subway and stop at West 4 St. Washington Square Station .

You will then be within walking distance of Washington Square Park, which is a great place to start your visit to Greenwich Village

Latest articles

The statue of liberty, chapka insurance promotional code, where to sleep in new york city.

• North America
• How To Spend A Day...

How To Spend 24 Hours in Greenwich Village, NYC

Greenwich Village is New York’s original bohemian neighborhood, famous for its legacy as an artistic stronghold, counterculture enclave and the birthplace of the Pride movement. Explore its cobbled, tree-lined streets for some of the best music, bougie shopping and cozy restaurants in the city.

Take the 1 or 2 train to Christopher Street and walk over to The Elk . Owner Claire Chan hails from Vancouver and channels Pacific Northwest vibes at her low-key spot. Grab a coffee and settle yourself onto the bench outside. If you’ve got time for a meal, The Elk’s chef (who was a contestant on Top Chef ) makes a mean breakfast (pulled jalapeño chicken with eggs, and a breakfast burrito with scrambled egg, avocado, chorizo and pico di gallo to name two) that’ll help you tackle the day.

Alternatively, snag a pistachio croissant twist from Amy’s Bread or arguably the best avocado toast in the city, courtesy of Australian café Bluestone Lane .

1. Bluestone Lane, Greenwich Avenue

Cafe, Australian

2. Amy’s Bread

Cafe, Bakery, American

The scent of baking wafts out the doors of Amy’s Bread – a popular café known for its freshly made carb-y delicacies. Grab a strong coffee and a pastry that makes you go weak at the knees (think cinnamon walnut scones, almond brioche toast, strawberry danish or glazed chocolate baked donut). If you’re more of a savory person, try one of Amy’s fresh loaves.

Next, meander over to Bleecker Street to do some window-shopping (or actual shopping). Once lined with independently owned stores, virtually every shop front is now occupied by high-end fashion labels and lifestyle boutiques.

Become a Culture Tripper!

Sign up to our newsletter to save up to $1,395 on our unique trips..

See privacy policy .

Invest in the finest scented candles and fragrances money can buy at Diptyque , get customized leather goods (think monogrammed or logoed bags and accessories) at The Daily Edited and pick up effortless Parisian style classics at Ba&sh .

Where Bleecker Street meets West 11th Street you’ll find Magnolia Bakery – a classic New York cupcake spot whose popularity exploded after it was briefly featured in season three of Sex and the City . Carrie Bradshaw fans can also visit the character’s famous brownstone stoop at nearby 64 Perry Street.

3. Magnolia Bakery, Bleecker Street

Bakery, Dessert

When you’re feeling peckish, nothing beats a true New York slice from Joe’s . Eat it while strolling to Washington Square Park – the ideal place to spend an afternoon lazing on the grass and watching some of New York’s eclectic characters. While you’re there, check out educational events hosted by New York University (NYU) – its buildings flank the park. Many of its seminars, screenings, exhibitions and talks are open to the public.

4. Joe’s Pizza

Pizzeria, Restaurant, American

Afterwards, take a stroll through some of the West Village’s more quiet, picturesque streets (Gay, Leroy, or Bedford), winding up at the West Side Highway waterfront park for magic hour overlooking the Hudson River.

Once the sun has set, head for Buvette for small plates in an intimate setting, Tacombi for crowd-pleasing tacos and margaritas or Miss Lily’s for Jamaican food and an unapologetic party atmosphere.

5. Buvette, New York

Bistro, Restaurant, Bar, Cafe, French

Make your way to Buvette for charming ambience and delectable food. Share tartines, veggies, seafood and meat dishes sourced from trusted farmers, bakers and cheesemongers from New York and the surrounding states. It doesn’t take reservations, but a seat in Buvette is well worth the wait.

Restaurant, Mexican

Tacombi is one of the city’s most beloved Mexican restaurants. After starting out as a taco truck in the Yucatan, the company has gone on to open several locations around NYC. Order chips and guacamole, cups of Mexican corn and pitchers of spicy-sweet margarita, plus a platter of Tacombi’s specialty tacos. There are nine flavors, including battered fish, black bean-veggie, chorizo and marinated pork – a Mexico City classic.

7. Miss Lily’s

Restaurant, Jamaican

Miss Lily’s is New York’s top destination for Caribbean food and vacation-style cocktails. The menu contains all the best Jamaican dishes – from artichoke and callaloo dip to jerk chicken and traditional curry goat stew served with a side of buttery roti bread. What’s more, the vibe is unbeatable. A playlist of reggae, dancehall and ska will have you dancing in your seat.

When night falls, the Village’s legacy as a jazz and blues neighborhood becomes apparent. Visit Café Wha? , a live music venue that kick-started the careers of many famous musicians, or catch a show at Terra Blues , a first-rate blues club. Underground spot Fat Cat is also a great place to catch up-and-coming jazz artists while playing a game of ping-pong or shuffleboard late into the night.

8. Café Wha?

Music Venue

9. Terra Blues

Bar, Pub Grub

A modern-day saloon in the heart of the West Village , Terra Blues offers an impressive line-up of local and international blues, jazz and rock bands who play nightly. Acoustic sets are played early in the evenings, while late nights are reserved for the rockers. A fine selection of whiskey, bourbon and scotch makes the two-drink minimum for a table a treat.

Esme Benjamin contributed additional reporting to this article .

See & Do

Things to see and do in greenwich village.

Places to Stay

The best hotels to book in greenwich village, new york city.

Greenwich Village Guide: Top Things to Do

Film & TV

Your guide to greenwich village in the movies.

Food & Drink

The 11 best breakfast and brunch spots in greenwich village, new york city.

Bars & Cafes

The best bars in greenwich village.

Culture Trip Summer Sale

Save up to $1,395 on our unique small-group trips! Limited spots.

• Post ID: 766439
• Sponsored? No
• View Payload

Watch CBS News

President Biden, Elton John visit NYC's Stonewall National Monument to mark 55 years since riots

By Shosh Bedrosian , Ali Bauman , Jennifer Bisram

Updated on: June 28, 2024 / 11:27 PM EDT / CBS New York

NEW YORK --  President Joe Biden, first lady Jill Biden and legendary singer-songwriter Elton John were in New York City on Friday to attend the opening of the Stonewall National Monument Visitor Center , which memorializes the site of riots that sparked the gay rights movement in 1969. 

"It set an example, I'm not exaggerating, for the entire world. That's what this center, this monument, this month is all about," Pres. Biden said. 

"It reminds us that our differences are precious and our similarities infinite," the first lady said. 

Opening the Stonewall National Monument Visitor Center

The Stonewall National Monument Visitor Center  on Christopher Street in Greenwich Village officially opened to the public Friday, and it's free to visit. 

Officials say it honors the legacy of the rebellion and is a hub for learning about the history and continued struggles of the LGBTQ+ rights movement. 

"For generations, LGBTQI+ Americans have summoned the courage to live proudly, even when it meant putting their lives at risk. 55 years ago at the Stonewall Inn in New York, brave LGBTQI+ individuals did just that and formed a movement that would transform our nation," Pres. Biden wrote on X before speaking at the opening. 

Organizers hope the center will teach visitors about LGBTQ+ history and ongoing struggles for liberation.

"I think it's very important for people of this generation to understand the struggles of the past. We tend to forget that rights that are won can just as easily be lost," visitor Rohin Naio said.

"It's here to honor all of the elders that fought for our rights. It's to give hope to all the youth that are still suffering or are feeling oppression," said Steve Love Menendez. 

Menendez told CBS New York he visits Stonewall every day to check on the rainbow flags on display . 

"I'm the creator of the rainbow flag display here at the park," he said. "So I come every morning to restore any missing flags and make sure everything looks beautiful for everyone to enjoy."

The Stonewall Inn became a national monument in 2016. This is the first LGBTQ+ visitor center recognized by the National Park Service. 

55 years since the Stonewall Riots

Friday marked  55 years since the Stonewall Uprising , which set off six days of clashes between police and LGBTQ+ protesters.

The Stonewall Inn is considered the birthplace of the gay rights movement.

On June 28, 1969, when homosexual acts were still outlawed in New York City, police raided the bar -- a place of refuge for the gay community and frequent target of harassment. 

The community had enough, and the riots that followed spearheaded LGBTQ+ activism in the United States.

"To be here in this place where literal history has been made, it's pretty powerful. And to hear that it's being celebrated in such a way, just adds that much more power to it," said Monica Jaso, who is visiting Stonewall from Chicago. "It just will kind of solidify that we have a place in history."

The inn can be accessed by the newly renamed Christopher Street-Stonewall subway station.

"Renaming this station is a recognition of that tremendous battle in our history," MTA CEO Janno Lieber said.

NYC Pride March and weekend events

New York City's annual Pride March is this Sunday, June 30. It dates back to 1970, one year after the uprising. 

The march starts at noon and steps off from 25th Street and Fifth Avenue near Madison Square Park.

This year's theme is "Reflect. Empower. Unite," with a focus on the power of people coming together for "Queer liberation and joy."

Pride events have been held all month, looking toward a future without discrimination, where all people have equal rights under the law. 

Here are some upcoming events this weekend :

• Youth Pride, 12 p.m. Saturday at South Street Seaport Museum
• SATURGAY by Hot Rabbit, 9 p.m. Saturday at CIRCO Times Square
• The Main Event by Masterbeat, 10 p.m. Saturday at Terminal 5
• PrideFest street fair, 11 a.m. Sunday in Greenwich Village
• Bliss Days, 2 p.m. Sunday at The DL

See the full list of Pride events and more details here.

• Pride Month

Featured Local Savings

More from cbs news.

Map shows where to watch NYC's 4th of July fireworks tonight

July 4th fireworks return to NYC's West Side for first time since 2013

No credible threats for NYC July 4th celebrations, NYPD says

Video shows man accused of punching woman at Pride event was acting in self defense, attorney says

• WEATHER ALERT Heat Advisory Full Story
• ABC7 New York 24/7 Eyewitness News Stream Watch Now
• THE LOOP | NYC Weather and Traffic Cams Watch Now

President Biden visits Stonewall National Monument Visitor Center ahead of Pride weekend

GREENWICH VILLAGE, Manhattan (WABC) -- President Joe Biden traveled to New York City on Friday where he visited the Stonewall Inn to mark the 55th anniversary of the riots.

Biden, along with the first lady, visited for the opening day of the Stonewall National Monument Visitor Center , where music and plenty of hope was on full display.

Against the historic backdrop of Greenwich Village, the Stonewall Inn stood as a beacon of resilience on June 28, 1969, when the Stonewall Rebellion took place.

The president was joined at the new visitor center by New York Gov. Kathy Hochul and other democratic leaders.

He told the cheering crowd, "its your love for each other and your community that brought this center to life."

Biden warmly hugged Gov. Hochul and then danced over to Sen Kirsten Gillibrand, who yelled "He's the best! He's a fighter!"

"When there are assaults on LGBTQ rights across America, we are the vanguard, we are the fighters," Hochul said. "The torch has been passed to us as New Yorkers. Passed to the next generation."

Legendary singer, songwriter and pianist Elton John was also in attendance for the ceremony.

"I can say as a proud English, gay man, that this is one of the greatest honors of my life to be here today," he said. "The fight for freedom and equality is an ongoing one."

The center pays homage to the Stonewall Rebellion while serving as a space for learning about LGBTQIA+ and the ongoing struggle for freedom.

"I think it's the missing piece of the monument. Having the visitor center some can go and then someone can come to the actual Stonewall Inn and then go out in the park. So it's all completed now," said Kurt Kelly, co-owner of the Stonewall Inn.

This center has been in the works since President Barack Obama designated the Stonewall National Monument in 2016.

Biden's stance on LGBTQ+ issues has evolved throughout his decades of public service.

As a U.S. senator, he voted in 1996 for the Defense of Marriage Act, which forbade federal recognition of same-sex unions.

Then, more than a decade later, Biden as vice president declared in 2012 on "Meet the Press" that he supported gay marriage, upstaging his boss, President Obama, who had not yet stated his position on the issue. Obama said he supported gay marriage shortly thereafter.

As president, Biden has acted to protect the rights of gay and transgender people, such as reinstating antidiscrimination provisions eliminated by then-President Donald Trump. Biden also ended a ban on transgender people serving in the military.

The Democratic incumbent will then headline an evening Pride Month fundraiser with LGBTQ+ advocates.

Biden arrived in New York after rallying supporters at a post-debate event in Raleigh, North Carolina. He has other fundraisers Saturday on New York's Long Island and Red Bank, New Jersey, before a scheduled return to the Camp David presidential retreat in Maryland.

In addition to the president's visit, the Christopher Street subway station was renamed in honor of the Stonewall National Monument.

MTA Chairman and CEO Janno Lieber was part of the unveiling ceremony.

The No. 1 train stop will be known moving forward as "Christopher Street - Stonewall National Monument Station" in observance of the 1969 Stonewall Inn uprising.

The state legislature passed a bill renaming the station during its last session and Gov. Hochul is expected to sign it into law to coincide with Pride weekend.

Fridays events come ahead of the NYC Pride March on Sunday.

ABC 7 New York is your home for the NYC Pride March on Sunday, June 30. Watch the broadcast from noon until 3 p.m. on Channel 7 and anywhere you stream ABC7NY.

(The Associated Press contributed to this report.)

* Get Eyewitness News Delivered

* More New York City news

* Send us a news tip

* Download the abc7NY app for breaking news alerts

* Follow us on YouTube

Submit a tip or story idea to Eyewitness News

Have a breaking news tip or an idea for a story we should cover? Send it to Eyewitness News using the form below. If attaching a video or photo, terms of use apply.

Related Topics

• NEW YORK CITY
• GREENWICH VILLAGE
• THE STONEWALL INN
• LGBTQ PRIDE
• LGBTQ+ PRIDE
• NYC PRIDE MARCH

Top Stories

2 people dead after suspected drunk driver plows into Manhattan park

8-year-old child killed, parents stabbing inside Queens apartment

• 3 hours ago

Exclusive: Fireworks over, but work doesn't stop for the NYPD

AccuWeather: Humid, PM thunderstorm

22-year-old man shot and killed outside deli in Flatbush

Patrick Bertoletti devours 58 hot dogs, wins his first Nathan's title

Mother, 2 young children stabbed in East Orange apartment

Crowds flock to beaches, boardwalks, parades for July 4th

Recommended

Breaking news, multiple brawls break out in chaotic scene inside washington square park pride celebration: video.

• View Author Archive
• Email the Author
• Follow on X
• Get author RSS feed

Contact The Author

Thanks for contacting us. We've received your submission.

Thanks for contacting us. We've received your submission.

Multiple brawls and wild chaos engulfed Washington Square Park in the aftermath of New York City’s Pride Parade Sunday as police battled to control the unruly mob of revelers, shocking footage shows.

Video from the jaw-dropping scene showed fistfights and hair-pulling as several troublemakers turned the crowded park into their own personal boxing ring while herds of onlookers watched with glee and even whipped out their phones to record the showdowns in Lower Manhattan.

At one point, two young men threw haymakers at each other before one took a tumble to the ground. Seconds later, two women briefly took swings at each other while a couple bystanders attempted to break up that kerfuffle, a clip shows.

In another instance of violence, one woman, who appeared to be bleeding from her face with dried blood on her white shirt, went head-to-head with a peer as the crowd loudly cheered, according to footage.

Other spats of savagery included one woman pushing another off the edge of the park’s iconic water fountain while another brawler yanked a woman in a pink shirt to the ground by her hair. The young woman in pink continued to be dragged by her counterpart before others finally jumped in to help.  

When there wasn’t violence, there was plenty of R-rated antics, including multiple women twerking on a white vehicle and one person grinding up against a light pole he climbed to the top, according to clips.

Another video shows police officers attempting to get a handle on the out of control crowd by putting up barricades around the park as some rabble rousers rushed toward it.

As night fell, the NYPD played a loudspeaker recording announcing Washington Square Park’s closure and ordering people to leave — leading to arguments between cops and park-goers.

It was not immediately clear if any arrests took place as a result of the fighting.

Before the rowdy conduct, New York City celebrated its 54th Pride Parade as thousands of revelers took part in the celebration of LGBTQ rights in Greenwich Village.

During the festivities, anti-Israel protesters temporarily blocked the march before they were hauled off by cops near the historic Stonewall Inn, considered the birthplace of the gay rights movement.  

Police arrested 22 people during the protest — 16 of whom were given desk appearance tickets and released while the other six remained in custody Sunday night.

Additional reporting by Larry Celona.

Advertisement

Pro-Palestinian protesters block NYC Pride Parade, cops take 10 into custody

Pro-Palestinian demonstrators climbed over barricades, tossed fake blood and held up New York City’s Pride Parade on Sunday.

About a dozen protesters descended on the annual march as it approached Christopher St. and Waverly Place in Greenwich Village around 2:45 p.m.

They protesters splattered red paint on the route and on a Chevrolet Silverado pickup truck inside the barricades, photos show.

The protesters sat in the roadway and refused to let the parade continue as they held signs declaring “no queer liberation without Palestinian liberation” and “Palestine will be free.”

The demonstration erupted about a half block from the historic Stonewall Inn, an iconic landmark and symbol of queer activism and liberation, as well as the end of the parade route.

Police took 10 people into custody and issued seven of them criminal summonses, cops said.

Three others — a 21-year-old woman and two 35-year-old men — were arrested and charges against them were pending Sunday night, they added.

Sunday marked the city’s 54th annual Pride March.

©2024 New York Daily News. Visit at nydailynews.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

From art to astronomy—6 reasons to visit Jersey City this summer

Set across from New York on the banks of the Hudson River, Jersey City is gaining a name for itself as an artistic hub — and with a wide range of exciting events and openings this year, there’s never been a better time to visit.

Just a 10-minute metro ride from Greenwich Village, historic Jersey City is fast emerging from the shadow of Manhattan’s iconic skyline. This is no longer a city defined by its history as the gateway to the US. Instead, 21 st century ‘JC’ — as the city is affectionately known by locals — is now one of the most diverse cities in the US, with a thriving calendar of events encompassing music, cuisine and LGBTQ+ celebrations.

Jersey City’s pedestrianised bar-and-restaurant-flanked streets are home to a growing collection of art galleries and innovative museums, which can be easily explored on dedicated walking routes and open-house events. The city has also recently renovated the Hudson River waterfront, allowing for expansive views of Manhattan from a number of new parks, restaurants and hotels. With all this development, there’s never been a better time to get ahead of the travel curve and enjoy Jersey City at its most creative. Here are six experiences not to miss this year.

1. Explore outdoor art

Jersey City is awash with public and street art created by local, nationally known, and internationally renowned artists. Along the Hudson River waterfront, for example, sits Water’s Soul — Spanish artist Jaume Plensa’s 60ft-high sculpture of the head of a woman with a finger to her lips in serene self-contemplation, looking across the river towards Manhattan and acting to unite the cities in quiet appreciation of the water.

Elsewhere, the Jersey City Mural Arts Program , launched in 2013, has bedecked approximately 200 walls around the town with colourful murals. Many of the artworks offer intriguing political statements, reflecting Jersey City’s growth from a once-gritty working-class manufacturing centre to a thriving hub of art and creativity. The Jersey City Mural Arts Program website offers an interactive map of the sites to make it simple to plan a walking tour.

2. Listen to live music in Liberty State Park

Liberty State Park , or ‘LSP’ as it’s known to locals, is a swathe of greenery that hugs the Hudson on the southern end of the city. Visitors are drawn here throughout the year to soak up exceptional views of Manhattan and the Statue of Liberty and to visit the historic Central Railroad of New Jersey Terminal . However, it's during the warmer months that the park bursts into action, as the city puts on a series of live concerts and film screenings here. Expect to hear everything from concertos and cantatas by the New Jersey Symphony Orchestra to pop performances by global artists — in the past, Jack Johnson, Selena Gomez, and Radiohead have all graced the park’s stage.

3. Discover cutting-edge science

Even if the performance period isn’t in full swing, a visit to the park is highly recommended to experience the vast Liberty Science Center . Its planetarium was the largest in the world when it opened in 1993 — and is still the fourth largest. The Liberty Science Center now spans 300,000sq ft, encompassing hands-on exhibits and popular mainstays like the Infinity Climber, 35ft -tall mesh-enclosed climbing apparatus where adults and children can ascend. Don’t miss the fascinating permanent exhibit, Skyscraper! which details the science of these magnificent buildings.

4. Head to Jersey City’s home of creativity

If you had any doubt about Jersey City’s artistic credentials, a visit to Mana Contemporary will swiftly assuage them. This one-million sq ft arts centre is housed in a multi-floor former manufacturing building from the 1920s, but first swung open its doors in its current iteration in 2011. The space now consists of artists’ studios, galleries, the archives for art centres such as the International Center of Photography , and the Richard Meier Model Museum — a collection of proposed buildings in miniature created by the famous architect. Events, open studios and exhibitions are held regularly, with current openings including Infância, an examination of childhood wonder and curiosity, curated by Amelia Shields.

5. Prepare for parties and parades

Jersey City brims with energy all year round, but as the weather begins to warm, parades and festivals start to seriously light up the city. On 4 July , America’s Independence Day celebration, visitors can watch a display of fireworks along the Hudson River. From 8 to 11 August, learn about Italian American heritage in Jersey City with La Festa Italiana , where food, song, and dance will create a fittingly festive fair. And on 24 August, the city’s annual Pride event comes to town. It may not be as large and loud as its equivalent across the river in Manhattan, but this is not bad thing, as it fosters a more intimate party atmosphere, complete with a pub crawl, a parade, concerts and dancing.

6. Visit the most creative kitchens

Five years ago, the New York Times ’ restaurant critic, Pete Wells, penned a rave review of Razza , a Neapolitan pizzeria in Jersey City. The headline read, ‘Is New York’s best pizza in New Jersey?’ That’s one debate that will rage for all time, but visitors to Jersey City will testify that great pizza isn’t just confined to New York. Bread & Salt , located in the Heights neighbourhood, is a bakery that makes thick square slices of Roman-style pizza that many people would argue is a rival for any pizza slice on the other side of the Hudson.

Jersey City doesn’t just excel at pizza, though. Hamilton Pork is one of the best US barbecue spots this side of the Mason-Dixon line. Meanwhile ‘India Square’ allegedly contains the highest concentration of Indian restaurants in the Western Hemisphere. Plus, there are scores of Filipino restaurants, Egyptian seafood spots, Teutonic-style beer gardens and variations on the theme of Caribbean cuisine, among many other mouthwatering eateries throughout the city.

Related Topics

• CITY GUIDES

You May Also Like

The essential guide to visiting Canada

A guide to Hamburg, north Germany's fiercely independent maritime hub

A family city guide to Berlin

A gastronomic guide to Philadelphia, the USA's historic hotspot

10 of the best hotels in Santiago, from family-run guesthouses to elegant Chilean mansions

How to spend a day in Barcelona, from artisan shops to tapas bars

A family city guide to Marrakech

• Terms of Use
• Privacy Policy
• Your US State Privacy Rights
• Children's Online Privacy Policy
• Interest-Based Ads
• About Nielsen Measurement
• Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information
• Nat Geo Home
• Attend a Live Event
• Book a Trip
• Inspire Your Kids
• Shop Nat Geo
• Visit the D.C. Museum
• Learn About Our Impact
• Support Our Mission
• Advertise With Us
• Customer Service
• Renew Subscription
• Manage Your Subscription
• Work at Nat Geo
• Sign Up for Our Newsletters
• Contribute to Protect the Planet

Copyright © 1996-2015 National Geographic Society Copyright © 2015-2024 National Geographic Partners, LLC. All rights reserved

• Share full article

Advertisement

Supported by

How the War in Gaza Disrupted an Elite Private School

The Little Red School House and Elisabeth Irwin High School, like similar institutions across the city, was consumed by strife over how to manage education about the conflict.

By Katherine Rosman

This spring, 30 ninth graders from a progressive private school near Greenwich Village went on a field trip.

There was nothing unusual about venturing out into New York City to boost their classroom studies. At the school, Little Red School House and Elisabeth Irwin High School, this sort of experiential learning was so routine that few parents were even notified of the destination: The People’s Forum in Midtown Manhattan, a hub for gatherings of left-wing activists. Its executive director has called for the destruction of Israel.

Afterward, parents were flabbergasted to learn where the students were taken, and what they were told.

During their visit, a People’s Forum employee gave the students a 90-minute lecture on the perils of America’s support for Israel and Ukraine. The students were “a captive audience who were subjected to anti-Israel and anti-American propaganda,” according to a grievance report filed by a parent and shared with school leadership. A handful of Jewish students walked out during the presentation, upset.

Later, the head of school, Phil Kassen, sent a message to parents acknowledging that he had been aware of the plan and taking responsibility for what he said was an error in judgment. “I could have stopped this trip,” he wrote. “I didn’t.” It was not his first apology this school year.

In the eight months since Hamas attacked Israel and Israel retaliated with a military campaign in Gaza, private schools across New York have been disrupted by strife over how to manage education about the war, political expression by faculty and students, and accusations of antisemitism and Islamophobia.

Similar skirmishes have played out in public schools, which educate the majority of New York’s children. But at many private schools, where parents often pay more than $60,000 for their children’s tuition, administrators must worry about attracting future customers. At the same time, they are trying to placate teachers, including many who embrace left-wing politics, and parents who have increasingly demanded a say in how schools respond to the war.

At many private schools, administrators were ill-prepared for the emotional furor. Many teachers were eager to instruct students about Israel’s displacement of Palestinians. Some Jewish parents said they welcomed open discourse about the war as long as it did not stray into antisemitism. At several schools, there has been friction between pro-Israel students and pro-Palestinian classmates. Some students have publicly criticized administrators for not teaching them about the long history of conflict in the Middle East.

At Little Red School House and Elisabeth Irwin High School — which is known as LREI — some pro-Palestinian students said they felt silenced by administrators when they tried to educate their classmates about the conditions in Gaza.

Parents say they worry that while administrators struggle to figure out how to present factual and fair lessons about the Middle East conflict, students are turning to activists on Instagram and TikTok.

The problem is, even reasonable people with opposing viewpoints on the conflict do not always agree on basic foundational facts.

At LREI, which serves about 700 students and whose alumni include Robert De Niro and Angela Davis , some parents say they are willing to be patient.

“This is tricky and nuanced,” said Marika Condos, a mother of a graduate and two current students. “It’s uncharted territory, and it’s not something that is going to get resolved very quickly.”

But others express a growing unease.

Some Jewish parents say that their children are uncomfortable wearing Star of David necklaces in some classes, worrying it could antagonize certain teachers.

“This is in a school environment,” said Ann Melinger, whose son is a rising junior at LREI. “He shouldn’t have to feel he can’t take classes with certain teachers because he’s afraid they’re not going to like him, and that’s happening in our household. We’re selecting classes for next year and actively avoiding certain teachers.”

Politics at school

Mr. Kassen, the head of school at LREI, encourages students to strive in the classroom and beyond for social justice. “Politics not only has a place in school,” he wrote in a 2017 essay, “it is already an integral part of life in every school, because a school’s ‘politics’ inherently influence that particular institution’s student experience.”

But even less overtly political schools have found themselves consumed by battles connected to the war in Gaza.

Collegiate School’s leader resigned this month after an ​​internal audit found “disquieting problems of religious and cultural bias” at the school, including hostility toward both Jews and Muslims.

Students at The Calhoun School blasted the administration in public letters for avoiding lessons about the conflict. Some described a fraught relationship between those on either side of the divide. “Many Calhouners have ties to the conflict, but the truth is, people are dying,” a Muslim student wrote. “I feel as if anytime I acknowledge that fact, I’ll be demeaned by someone of Jewish heritage for simply being objective.”

Since the Oct. 7 attack, in which Israeli authorities said about 1,200 people were killed and about 250 were kidnapped, more than 37,000 people have been killed in Gaza, according to health officials there, who do not distinguish between combatants and civilians. Almost half a million people in Gaza are facing starvation , experts say.

Steven Solnick, the outgoing head of school at Calhoun, acknowledged the divisions over the war. “The space for discussion and debate in the United States in all quarters has gotten more polarized,” he said in an interview, “and schools are a reflection of what’s around them .”

At some private schools in New York, a focus on personal identity, built into their curricula, appears to have exacerbated the tensions.

At Ethical Culture Fieldston School, where pro-Palestinian student activism — and backlash — exploded this spring, students are encouraged to join “affinity groups” that align with their racial, religious and cultural identities.

A photograph of young children wearing name tags with their names and identities (“Black,” “Jewish”) was widely shared by distressed parents this spring. A school spokeswoman said those name tags were used only at the beginning of the previous school year — and had been a mistake.

There are affinity groups for parents too.

Earlier this month, school officials sent an email urging families to “use this moment to collectively examine how to be in community with each other” and invited parents to a “listening session” about raising children in this complex and divisive moment, hosted by a group for families of color. But that meeting was abruptly canceled in favor of a meeting exclusively for parents of students of color. Most of the Jewish parents are white and were not welcome.

The spokeswoman noted that in May a separate meeting had been held for Jewish families.

School officials said in a statement that even after a difficult year, they were committed to working to keep the community connected. “During this polarizing time, our goals remain the same,” the school said.

Maps without Israel

As it did at many institutions, the unrest at LREI started with a statement sent to parents shortly after Hamas attacked Israel in October.

The email, from the head of school, Mr. Kassen, did not directly state that Hamas had invaded Israel. After parents complained, he sent a second letter, but excluded acknowledgment of the Israeli army’s bombardment of Gaza and the toll to civilian Palestinians, which drew further criticism. So he wrote a third.

Frustrations over the school’s response continued through the year. At least two teachers came to school wearing kaffiyeh — checkered scarfs traditionally worn in the Middle East that have become symbols of solidarity with the Palestinian people. The administration agreed to a celebration of Jewish American Heritage Month in May but prohibited decorations showing Israeli flags.

Some Jewish parents have criticized the school for what they see as a double standard. LREI unequivocally addressed hate crimes targeting Black people and Asian Americans in the past, they said, but its response to the killing of Jewish civilians in Israel was measured.

“After several years of rightly discussing the necessity of addressing systemic issues around identity and discrimination, the issues that have arisen around antisemitism and political bias feel as if they are being treated differently,” said Natalia Petrzela, a professor of history at the New School and the parent of an LREI middle school student.

In a statement to The New York Times, Mr. Kassen said that the school is committed to all students and families feeling safe and welcome. “Since Oct. 7th,” he wrote, “we have engaged in dialogue with many parents around these issues to ensure their concerns are heard and addressed.” (A handful of LREI teachers contacted for comment declined to be interviewed.)

Jonathan Rosen, a parent of two students and a member of the LREI board who spoke to The Times on behalf of the school, said, “As a Jew and liberal Zionist, I am not saying the school hasn’t made mistakes, but they are committed to creating a safe environment for Jewish students and Jewish families and I think that is how many Jewish families experience the school.”

The institution that eventually became LREI was founded nearly a century ago by Elisabeth Irwin, an educational reformer who imagined schools as places to address social ills and “ laboratories where children could experiment with life.”

Ms. Irwin and her contemporaries emphasized experiential learning and field trips that took full advantage of New York. Children’s curiosity helped drive the curriculum.

Today, LREI charges $55,000 in tuition. It markets itself as focused on critical thinking and learning by doing. The curriculum is steeped in issues of social justice.

This progressive education model and the school’s embrace of social activism are part of what has attracted families to the school.

But this year, as much of the political left has been galvanized by opposition to Israel and the war in Gaza, Jewish parents at the school became concerned about teachers’ politics entering the classroom.

In November, some parents of sixth graders were startled when they visited their children’s classroom. On display were several maps of the Middle East created as part of a student geography project on which Israel did not exist. In its place some maps were labeled “OPT,” for Occupied Palestinian Territory.

Afterward, parents received an apology and explanation from the classroom teacher that some found disquieting. “I shared with students that Israel is a recognized country,” the teacher wrote. “I also shared that Palestine is also on that land and is recognized by 135 countries. I offered them the choice of including Palestine on their maps or not.”

Through the winter, the administration found itself sandwiched between two groups: young faculty members who expressed passionate concern about the war and the rights of Palestinians, and a group of Jewish parents who said they wanted the school to teach about the conflict, but in a neutral way. The school held an assembly on antisemitism and Islamophobia, but avoided deep discussion of the conflict in classrooms.

Tensions erupted in April, when the ninth-grade students were taken to The People’s Forum, located in an office building in Midtown. The organization has emerged in recent months as a key player in the Palestinian liberation and anti-Israel protest movements that have engulfed the city.

The group sponsored a rally in Times Square on Oct. 8 to “to stand with the people of Palestine, who have the right to resist apartheid, occupation and oppression,” according to social media posts. It has provided support for pro-Palestinian university protests, which it refers to as “The Student Intifada.”

According to the grievance report, The People’s Forum employee who made the presentation to the LREI students said that the war between Russia and Ukraine “would stop if America stopped funding Ukraine and implied the same with Israel.” The report said a ninth grader “raised his hand and rebuffed this by sharing that he believed that America’s involvement helps keep the world safe and that without it Ukraine would cease to exist. The staff leader dismissed this, said he was a communist and began referring to the students as comrades. As the conversation turned more pointedly to anti-Israel rhetoric, a few students stood up and left.”

When the students returned to school, the complaint said, they met with the school’s head of diversity, equity and inclusion, who told them that hearing “controversial and polarizing viewpoints was good practice for subsequent years’ social justice trips.”

Several days later, Mr. Kassen emailed ninth-grade parents to apologize. “I should not have put the students in the position to visit the organization, both due to their call for the ‘destruction’ of Israel, and due to the fact that their more general political views had the kids being in well over their heads,” he said.

Officials at The People’s Forum did not respond to requests for comment.

About a week later, Mr. Kassen angered some parents anew when he informed them that teachers had received antisemitism training. Parents discovered in quick internet searches that the curriculum had been developed by pro-Palestinian activists.

(A director of the organization who provided the training said that those involved are committed to challenging antisemitism, Islamophobia and anti-Palestinian bigotry.)

The People’s Forum’s visit and the training “was a big turning point,” said Ms. Melinger, a parent. “I don’t care if you think it’s not antisemitic,” she said. “It is felt to be by some in your community, and there are so many other groups to choose from.”

She strongly considered moving her son to a new school but worried that a transition would hurt his grades.

Ms. Melinger said she wants the school to educate her son about the Middle East conflict and realizes that parts of that education will be painful. “But there has been no dialogue,” she said, “and in the vacuum, teachers are taking matters in their own hands.”

Students are as well. The last week of school, an LREI group called Students for Peace and Justice in Palestine sent a message with online resources to the entire high school. “We hoped to send this email earlier, but we were not allowed to, due to restrictions from administration,” it said. It was signed by two students and a teacher.

The resources included the Arab news network Al-Jazeera, which has the most extensive operation in Gaza of any media outlet and was recently banned by Israel.

The list also included more than a dozen Instagram handles of journalists and activists whose posts range from dispatches from Palestinian journalists in Gaza to a cartoon depicting an arm painted like the American and Israeli flags holding the severed head of a child near the word “Rafah.”

“Our goal is not to tell people what to think,” the email said, “but to give people more critical thinking tools.”

Katherine Rosman covers newsmakers, power players and individuals making an imprint on New York City. More about Katherine Rosman

Around the New York Region

A look at life, culture, politics and more in new york, new jersey and connecticut..

The Toll That Wasn't: We counted 22,252 cars to see how much revenue New York City could have generated  if it had gone forward with congestion pricing.

Celebrating Pride in a Small Town: In New York’s suburban and rural communities, where L.G.B.T.Q. people can feel more isolated, Pride events are often a mix of angst and joy .

One Answer for Two Problems: While his peers were building Modernist towers, the architect Joseph Pell Lombardi devoted his life to restoring beautiful old buildings. Today, his ideas are helping address New York’s twin real estate crises .

Street Wars: In the Queens neighborhood of Bayside, which looks like an idyllic place to ride a bike, a “bizarre culture war” has erupted over bike lanes .

Sunday Routine: Dr. Alex Arroyo, a director of pediatric medicine in Brooklyn, spends his Sundays  getting to live out his “Star Wars” dreams, practicing jujitsu and making a big mess while cooking for his family.