Greenwich Village is one of my favourite neighbourhoods in New York. It’s vibrant, fun and packed with cool things to see and do. From browsing quirky shops to sipping cocktails at trendy bars, there’s something for everyone in this diverse part of NYC.
Before we delve into the the best things to do in Greenwich Village, check out my 7 helpful tips to enjoy New York City, if you’re planning a trip to the Big Apple.
Greenwich Village is located in Lower Manhattan and is known for its bohemian atmosphere, historic architecture and vibrant arts and culture scene.
So put on your walking shoes and get ready to explore all that the Village it has to offer!
Washington Square Park
One of the top places you should visit in Greenwich Village is Washington Square Park. It’s a well-known spot with attractions like the Washington Square Arch and a big fountain in the middle.
This is a beautiful park with plenty of green space. Take a leisurely stroll and enjoy the park’s natural beauty or just find a great spot to sit and people-watch. If you prefer to be more active, there’s a playground, a chess area and a basketball court. Bring a ball or a board game and just enjoy being outside.
Washington Square Park is known for its lively atmosphere and you may catch street performers, musicians and other entertainers. Take a seat and enjoy the show. It’s also a great place to have a picnic on a nice day. Bring a blanket and some food and find a spot to relax and enjoy a meal with family, friends or even solo.
Bleecker Street Pizza
Bleecker Street Pizza is a popular pizza place. It’s known for serving up thin-crust, coal-fired pizza since 1998 and has been featured on a number of ‘best of’ lists for its delicious pies.
Bleecker Street Pizza has a casual, laid-back atmosphere and is a popular spot for both tourists and locals. In addition to pizza, the menu also includes a selection of sandwiches, salads and appetisers.
Let’s talk about the mouthwatering pizzas. The aroma of freshly baked dough and bubbling cheese wafts out onto the sidewalk, drawing in hungry customers from near and far. The menu is simple but oh so satisfying – classic New York style slices that are big on flavour and even bigger on size.
Whether you’re a fan of plain cheese, pepperoni or loaded with all the toppings under the sun, Bleecker Street Pizza has got you covered. Don’t miss their famous square Sicilian slices. Crispy crusts with gooey mozzarella and zesty tomato sauce will delight your taste buds.
It’s an iconic spot, so it’s a good idea to come early or be prepared to wait in line, especially on weekends. If you’re in the Greenwich Village area and in the mood for some delicious pizza, Bleecker Street Pizza is definitely worth a visit. Trust me, you won’t be disappointed.
Sex And The City Stoop
The stoop featured in the television show ‘Sex and the City’ is located at 66 Perry Street in the West Village. The show aired from 1998 to 2004. It followed the lives of four women living in New York City and their relationships with men.
If you’re not familiar with the original series, you may have caught the revival show And Just Like That, which hit our screens in 2021 and has had two seasons so far.
As a huge fan of the show, visiting the famous stoop in front of Carrie Bradshaw’s apartment was a must. It’s located at the front of a townhouse, was used as a backdrop in several scenes throughout the series and has become an iconic symbol of the show. It’s a popular spot for fans of the show to visit and take photos.
If you’re a fan of Sex and the City and are visiting New York, you may want to consider adding a visit to the stoop to your itinerary. Just be mindful of the residents of the townhouse and respect their privacy.
The Friend’s Apartment
If you’re a fan of the beloved TV show Friends, then you can’t miss the apartment, at 90 Bedford Street in the West Village. This building features as the exterior of the apartment where Monica, Rachel, Joey and Chandler lived. Because of this, it’s a popular spot for fans of the show who often make it a stop on their New York City trips.
Tree-lined streets and classic New York brownstones surround the building. Many Friends-themed tours in New York City stop at this building, letting fans see it up close and take pictures. These tours often share fun facts about the series, making the experience even better.
We chose not to take the tour and headed there ourselves. We ended up spending quite a bit of time just soaking up the vibe as a family, chatting about our favourite scenes and clicking lots of photos!
It’s important to know that the apartment is a private home. You can look at the outside and take pictures from the street, but you can’t go inside. The people living there go about their daily lives, so be respectful and don’t try to enter or bother them.
Magnolia Bakery
Magnolia Bakery is another spot you should consider dropping by. Known for its delicious cupcakes and other treats, this spot gained fame through Sex and the City.
The bakery featured in season three, with Miranda and Carrie sitting outside the shop, tucking into a cupcake topped with pink icing. Magnolia Bakery has become so synonymous with the series that in 2007 they introduced a ‘Carrie’ cupcake, which has since become a staple on their menu. It’s a vanilla cupcake with pink buttercream frosting. And trust me, it is yum!
The West Village bakery was founded in 1996 by Jennifer Appel and Allysa Torey. It has now become a popular chain with stores in other parts of New York, Chicago and Dubai.
If you’re in the area and have a sweet tooth, consider stopping by Magnolia Bakery for a delicious treat.
Porto Rico Coffee Shop
Porto Rico Importing Co. is a top coffee roaster and shop in NYC. They’ve been around since 1907, bringing the good stuff to New Yorkers for over a century.
They don’t just roast and sell coffee, they’ve got all the gear too – espresso machines, grinders, you name it. With several shops around the city and an online store, it’s super easy to get your coffee fix.
They’re famous for finding and roasting unique coffees from all over the world, with tons of different flavours and roast levels. They’ve also got organic and fair trade options. Even if you’re not a coffee fan, you’ll be amazed by the diverse selection of global teas on display.
So drop by their store if you’re in Greenwich Village or check out their website. You can even grab a drink at their coffee bar and enjoy top-quality brews.
Watch A Comedy Show
If you’re into comedy, Greenwich Village is the place to be. Check out some of its famous comedy clubs where you might see new talent and even catch a surprise performance from a big-name comedian.
Here are a few top spots:
- Comedy Cellar: This iconic venue has hosted tons of famous comedians. It’s a great place to catch surprise sets from well-known acts.
- The Village Underground: The same team behind the Comedy Cellar runs it, offering a similar great experience in a larger space.
- Greenwich Village Comedy Club: A cosy spot with a mix of seasoned comedians and fresh faces.
- The Grisly Pear Comedy Club: A bit off the beaten path but it’s got a laid-back vibe and a variety of comedy shows.
These places offer a mix of comedy styles and talents, making Greenwich Village a perfect spot for comedy fans.
Other Reccomendations
- Explore the architecture: Wander around Greenwich Village and check out its historic buildings and landmarks, like the Jefferson Market Library, the Stonewall Inn and the Green Building.
- Check out the Village Vanguard: Catch a show at the Village Vanguard, the legendary jazz club that’s hosted jazz greats. Check their schedule and plan your visit while you’re in town.
- Take a food tour: Indulge in Greenwich Village’s array of tasty restaurants and cafes. Take a food tour to savour the best dishes and dive into the local food scene.
- Go shopping: The Village has lots of indie boutiques and specialty stores, offering everything from clothes and accessories to home decor and gifts. Take a stroll and see what cool stuff you can find.
Where To Stay In Greenwich Village
Luxury Option: The Greenwich Hotel
The Greenwich Hotel offers a taste of true luxury with its impeccable blend of elegance and comfort. Each room is a unique haven of sophistication, designed with an eye for detail and a focus on your comfort.
Why It’s Great: This is your go-to if you’re craving an opulent stay with top-notch service, a prime location and a genuine slice of New York luxury.
Tip: Plan ahead and book early to snag one of the hotel’s sought-after rooms, especially if you’re visiting during peak seasons.
Budget-Friendly Option: The Jane Hotel
Located in the nearby Meatpacking District, The Jane Hotel delivers historic charm at an unbeatable price. The rooms are compact yet cleverly designed, and you’ll find various options, including budget-friendly shared accommodations.
Why It’s Great: Ideal for those who want to stay close to Greenwich Village without splurging. The hotel’s blend of historical character and affordability makes it a solid choice for budget-conscious travellers.
Tip: Go for a cabin room if you’re okay with cosy quarters and want to stretch your budget further.
Family-Friendly Option: The Roxy Hotel
Just a short hop from Greenwich Village in Tribeca, The Roxy Hotel is perfect for families. It features spacious rooms and suites that provide plenty of room for everyone. Kids will love the on-site movie theatre, game room and complimentary snacks.
Why It’s Great: This hotel creates a welcoming environment for families, with ample space and fun activities for children, all while keeping you conveniently close to Greenwich Village’s attractions.
Tip: Book a suite with a separate living area to give your family some extra room to relax and spread out.
If you’re not keen on any of these, there are hundreds of options in New York.
Is Greenwich Village Worth Visiting?
In short, yes! Add it to your New York itinerary now – it’s a must-visit! Its unique blend of historic charm, vibrant culture and cool spots. You’ll find iconic comedy clubs, delicious eateries, trendy boutiques and some TV locations. All of these places makes it a standout neighbourhood and a must-visit, whatever your age.
We went as a family and spent the entire day exploring. It ended up being one of our favourite days. It’s one of those places that captures the true spirit of New York and leaves you with great memories.
