Greenwich Village has always been known for its eclectic bohemian atmosphere, and it still retains much of that, even today. Eating, shopping, and just strolling down the streets that make up this famous and distinctive New York neighborhood are just a few things you can do.
Not sure where to start your Greenwich Village experience? Use the list below to get some ideas.
Soak up the atmosphere.
Find a nice coffeehouse, order a cup of your favorite coffee, and settle down for a few hours of reading a good book, sipping your coffee, and occasionally taking a break to people-watch. You'll be surprised at how peaceful and relaxed you feel after doing this very simple, and definitely inexpensive activity.
Visit
Washington Square Park.
This is the sight of the famous folksinger's protest that occurred on Sunday, April 9, 1961. What were they protesting? The ordinance that banned singing in the park. The protest itself went off without a hitch, but later police began to beat some of the spectators. Today, thankfully, that doesn't happen, but you can thank those people who simply wanted to share their music for this. If you're a mind to, bring your guitar or just sit and listen to those who have their instruments and are sharing their talents.
Keep an eye on Chunky's reconstruction.
The building was the site of a former speakeasy (an illegal drinking establishment that was popular during Prohibition). Part of the structure suffered a collapse in 2007, and the building is still in the process of being rebuilt. Hopefully, it won't be much longer before it is open again for business. A lot of writers and intellectuals need its muse to do their best work.
Visit West 10th Avenue.
That's W. 10th, where you'll find townhouses that were designed in the two-year period of 1856-1858. You'll also enjoy the apartment houses that were built on the Federalist style of architecture.
Learn how to play chess at
Village Chess Shop.
If you think you already know how, drop in to the Village Chess Shop and brush up on your technique. Or learn how to for the first time. Whenever you've finished learning or re-learning, stroll on over to the park and play chess with one of the many players who are there every day. It's a great way to spend an afternoon in historic, eclectic Greenwich Village.
