Greenwich Village :: Manhattan, New York

Greenwich Village, also known as East and West Village is located between Houston and 14th Street. The neighborhood differs from many of its neighboring areas and although it is associated with celebrities and costly residences, the small curving streets, peculiar alleys, and historic town houses make it an extremely fascinating place. If you’re visiting New York and want to escape the fast pace of Times Square for a few hours, Greenwich Village is the perfect place to visit.

Described commonly as a serpentine layout of streets, Greenwich Village boasts some strong characteristic parks, squares and lanes and is an area of New York known for its Bohemian lifestyle.

Washington Square Park is located in the heart of Greenwich Village and is one of the best-known of New York City’s 1900 public parks. As well as being home to the grand Washington Memorial Arch, the park hosts a full schedule of concerts, theater performances, and festivals throughout the year. In addition, Washington Square Park is a favorite place for street musicians, mimes, and artists to perform. Aspiring artists and poets can be found sharing their works with park visitors and the adjacent New York University holds its formal ceremonies in the park.

Greenwich Village is the second oldest historic district in New York. During the late 19th century, the Village was known as the ‘Bohemian’ capital and was also the birthplace of the Beat Movement. Big names such as Bob Dylan, Dylan Thomas and Jack Kerouac all roamed the streets of Greenwich Village once upon a time and students following in their footsteps can be spotted everywhere. It makes sense that Greenwich Village is home to a large community of gays and lesbians, as this is where the beginning of the gay rights movement began back in 1969.

The Village is also home to national department stores and local boutiques, and has a store that will appeal to practically every fashion niche group. No shopping trip to Greenwich Village however is complete without several hours spent in the Marc Jacobs section of the city – which is unmissable as the designer holds five stores in the area! During spring and summer, street fairs and boutiques often sell handmade jewelery and unique accessories for a bartered price.

At night, Greenwich Village is always alive with sights and sounds from music clubs, theaters and late-night coffee houses and is famous for its pubs and clubs. The East Village is the student district, which offers cheaper food and drink and more eclectic options. The West Village is home to higher end bars that have a more sophisticated atmosphere. Not only does Greenwich Village feature its own unique attractions, it is also home to some of the best hotels in New York ranging from budget to luxury.

You might be pleasantly surprised at what you’ll find on a visit to Greenwich Village!

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