Greenwich Village in New York

Greenwich Village in New York is located in Manhattan. The neighbourhood is fondly called ‘The Village’. The area’s intimate, European vibe, with its relatively low buildings, makes it a perfect setting for a Sunday afternoon stroll. There are lots of courtyards and gardens here, and due to the lack of high buildings, you’ll catch more sun than anywhere else in New York City.

Greenwich Village and West Village

The western part of Greenwich Village is West Village. Since these two areas overlap so much, it is sometimes confusing when we are talking about Greenwich Village and when West Village is meant. You can roughly say that Greenwich Village, compared to West Village, has an extension on the east side, from 6th Avenue to Broadway. This includes Washington Square Park and NYU.

History of Greenwich Village

When it comes to Greenwich Village, there is no such thing as ‘boring’. This part of the city has always been an important sanctuary for counterculture in the United States. In the 30s and 40s, lots of artists and folk singers established themselves here. In the 50s, it was known for drug experiments and in the 60s it attracted loads of musicians. They used to have a large amount of influence on one another, which resulted in new musical genres and artists like Bob Dylan and Neil Diamond. Dylan even mentions The Village in some of his songs. Within this ‘free’ environment, a vivid gay scene quickly arose. In fact, the world’s first Gay Pride took place here, back in 1970.

Greenwich Village in TV Series

Expect to see quite a few familiar buildings in Greenwich Village. Remember Sex and the City? The show’s main character, Carrie Bradshaw, supposedly lived at 66 Perry Street.

Are you more of a Friends fan? It may be disappointing reading that Central Perk, the hangout of the six most famous friends in the world, never truly existed. But The Little Owl, situated at the bottom of the ‘Friends’ building where the six used to ‘live’ may offer some comfort, and with a mouthwatering menu, it is a good alternative.

Book the New York film and television tour if you’re interested in seeing more locations from the screen in real life.

Shopping and dining in Greenwich Village

Although Greenwich Village has its share of chain stores, the charm of this area lies with the local entrepreneurs and their smaller, unique shops and restaurants. On 260 Bleecker Street, you’ll find Faicco’s Pork Store, full of delicious Italian delicacies. Pick your favourites and then head to Pasticceria Rocco for a cheap coffee and the best cannoli ever! Enjoy it all together on a picnic by the water at Hudson River Park (about a 10-15 min walk).

You’ll also find the two favourites from my list of best pizza restaurants in Greenwich Village. John’s Pizza on Bleecker Street has been made famous by that Simon & Garfunkel song. Are you a fan of both pizza and Spiderman? Then be sure to visit and grab a slice at Joe’s Pizza. This place, on Carmine Street, was featured in Spiderman 2.

My favourite place to have breakfast in New York is in Greenwich Village as well. Buvette Gastrothèque offers dishes with a French twist throughout the day. I regularly order a small breakfast from this cosy bistro or go there for a Sunday brunch.

Hotels in Greenwich Village

There are not that many hotels in Greenwich Village. Chains cannot be found here, but if you would like to stay in this district, there are some authentic hotels in different price ranges. Walker Hotel Greenwich Village is a nice hotel with good facilities and even rooms with balconies. Other options include the classic The Jane Hotel and Washington Square Hotel.

Tours of Greenwich Village

There are a number of tours you can take to see Greenwich Village. Taking a tour is a great way to get to know (part of) the city and hear stories and experiences from a local. You can explore Greenwich Village by taking one of these tours:

1. The High Line Park and Greenwich Village Food Tour are actually two tours in one! Firstly, enjoy a walk in High Line Park to work up an appetite for the best bit of the tour: the food! You’ll stop at 6 (!) places for a snack. Warning: don’t eat breakfast! This tour takes 3.5 hours.
   Book the High Line Park and Greenwich Village Food Tour here
2. The ‘Regular’ Greenwich Village Tour is a 2-hour historical tour of the neighbourhood. You’ll see where Bob Dylan and Janis Joplin performed, where the gay movement began and much more.
   Book the Greenwich Village Tour here
3. Those who ‘walk on the wild side’ should definitely experience Greenwich Village on the Rock ‘n’ Roll walking tour. The local and very knowledgeable guide will show you where rock stars used to perform and iconic album covers were photographed.
   Book the Rock ‘n’ Roll Walking tour here