Greenwich Village doesn’t disappoint when it comes to filling a day with fun. This historic neighborhood sticks to its artistic roots with the range of performance arts, film showings, and art galleries peppering each street. Feel the neighborhood’s heartbeat in community gathering places like Washington Square Park. Or sit back and sip on a drink as smooth as the live jazz playing in bars. When in the neighborhood, try out these eight things to do in Greenwich Village.
1. Visit Washington Square Park
Washington Square Park is a beloved part of Greenwich Village. Those visiting can walk to its core, which features a large fountain. This is a common gathering spot for residents to relax or perform. Watch a game or play one yourself at the Chess Plaza and Game Tables. Two playgrounds keep big and small kids engaged and safe. Its two dog runs provide space for pet owners to let their dogs roam free.
It’s common to spot performers within this park. Alongside talented individuals, the park schedules events that are open to the public. Catch a live theatrical or musical performance on its stage. This densely used area is created for the people by the people, making it a hotspot for the neighborhood’s culture.
2. Wander the Jefferson Market Garden
Jefferson Market Garden is another nature oasis tucked between the busy streets of Greenwich Village. Its circular path is easy to navigate and blooms with overflowing trees and bushes. Admire different species like Saucer Magnolia, Dogwood, and Pagoda trees. Or immerse yourself in the fragrant rose garden accompanied by a fountain. The koi pond is another favorite. Guests can watch the spotted white, orange, and black fish swim tranquily in the water.
3. Visit Bleecker Street
One of the best things to do in Greenwich Village is to visit famous streets packed with entertainment and dining. Bleecker Street is one of these. It stretches one mile through West Village, Greenwich Village, and NoHo. College students love Bleecker Street for its cafes with free Wi-Fi. Restaurants here range from Italian to Lebanese and everything between.
The night scene pops with a range of bars and clubs. Listen to soulful tunes at Terra Blues or live it up with The Bitter End’s rock and roll. Shopping here is just as varied. Find a mix of used and new books at Mercer Street Books & Records. Famous art galleries also abound. Admire contemporary creations at The Hole. Or visit one of the concerts and art fairs at the Zurcher Gallery.
4. Catch a show at the IFC Center
Take a step back from popular streaming services and watch an independent film at the IFC Center. Guests watch films in one of their five state-of-the-art cinemas for the ultimate viewing experience. Films feature a wide range of genres, from horror and thriller to historical romance and animated classics. The IFC also hosts several events throughout the year. Attend the DOC NYC in November, which is the largest documentary festival in the US. Weekend and monthly events are also regularly enjoyed by locals.
5. Attend an off-Broadway show
The musical theater scene thrives with the off-Broadway offerings Greenwich provides. Small spots like The Players Theatre provide a place for residents to get creative in their 200+ seat main stage, smaller 50 seat theater, and other rehearsal studios. Cherry Lane Theatre is another favorite with locals. As the longest running off-Broadway theater in the state, their shows are exciting and enthusiastic.
6. Laugh at the Comedy Cellar
Watching a show at the Comedy Cellar is one of the most popular things to do in Greenwich Village. The Comedy Cellar has hosted famous comedians and rising talent, forming an electric scene. As one of the best comedy clubs in the nation, those who make reservations can enjoy a lineup of five to seven acts. Above the Comedy Cellar is The Olive Tree Café, a favorite post-performance lounging spot for comedians. Enjoy the intimate setting while dining on Middle Eastern and American cuisine.
7. Dip into the jazz scene
The music scene is just as impressive as the performance scene. The Village Vanguard is a world-famous jazz club with music unlike anywhere else. Sit back and relax to The Vanguard Jazz Orchestra’s expert performances. Many other musicians also perform here, providing new and exciting entertainment every month. Music enthusiasts can also scout out the new talent at Smalls Jazz Club. This club features a talented lineup of performers playing everything from modern jazz to energetic bebop.
8. Grey Art Gallery
Stunning art is never far away when looking for things to do in Greenwich Village. The Grey Art Gallery at NYU is one of the best places to visit. The gallery tends to 6,000 objects. Most evident in its collection is postwar American art. They also have large holdings of Iranian, Indian, and Turkish modern art. Visitors can view exhibitions in a range of mediums. These include sculpture, painting, printmaking, as well as video, film, and performance.
Stop by to explore original exhibitions and traveling exhibitions. Past exhibitions showcase a range of styles and voices. Learn more about Indian and Iranian modernism. Or travel back to the “Red Decade” with pieces of propaganda. The Grey Art Gallery carefully cultivates exhibitions for an educational and insightful experience.
Ready to have fun in Greenwich Village?
Greenwich Village overflows with art, culture, and creative talent. People watch at Washington Square Park. Or spend a whole day on famous Bleecker Street. There’s never a shortage of live performances to attend. Stop by small theaters for theatrical performances or reserve a seat at the prestigious Comedy Cellar. Greenwich Village is an exciting place to live. If you’re interested in making this neighborhood home, reach out to local experts like those on the Fung-Casagrande Team.
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