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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: