Greenwich Village

Even those outside New York know Greenwich Village. The famed “Village” of New York has been around since the 16th century. It was then that the Dutch settled “Noortwyck,” which became “Greenwich” in 1696 and eventually led to today’s Greenwich Village.

In those last few hundred years, a lot has changed, and the Village has grown by leaps and bounds. Today’s Greenwich Village is a charming and quirky piece of New York City wrapped up among arts and entertainment unlike many people have ever seen. The old-world feel mixed with the cool vibe of today creates a backdrop from which stars like Jimi Hendrix, Lady Gaga, and Bob Dylan all began.

• Public transportation makes travel throughout the area easy
• Pricey and posh but suitable for young professionals and party-going visitors
• A mix of the best things New York has to offer, all in one place

For even those unfamiliar with Greenwich Village, it’s hard to miss out on some of the wonderful things the neighborhood offers. Whether admiring the schools in the area or marveling at the bustling music scene and all it’s done for the culture, a person could be overwhelmed with all that Greenwich Village has accomplished.

The area’s reputation as a major piece of bohemian culture is well-earned. Seen as progressive by many, Greenwich Village has never been afraid to lead the charge for change. It is why so many people flock here on a regular basis.

Greenwich Village has always been a favorite among foodies, and for a good reason. This vibrant neighborhood offers some of the best choices around for eclectic cuisine. A stop at the Gotham Bar & Grill reminds diners that few settings can match New York’s signature style.

It’s the iconic Italian eatery Carbone that gives those with a need for high-end dining a glimpse of how to fuse it with old-world charm. Much like The Loring Place, which also mixes upscale with casual, the relaxed and elegant food choices in Greenwich Village are unbelievable.

If a taste of fame is what the palate calls for, the celebrity-favorite Minetta Tavern has great food and a fantastic atmosphere. Once finished with dinner, drinks at Dante are just a short distance away.

Of course, food is only part of the Greenwich Village appeal. The Strand Bookstore, named after the famous London Street, has been offering rare titles for years. For pet owners, Doggystyle gives furrier family members a chance to get out in the sun. It’s just another example of the vast array of outings available.

Exploring Greenwich Village doesn’t feel complete without a walk through Washington Square Park. This iconic 9.75-acre piece of property in the heart of New York is known as one of the city’s most beloved public parks and is a hub for residents.

There are spectacular shows for kids and parents to enjoy. The Annual Village Halloween Parade, which runs up 6th Avenue, has become more than a tradition in the neighborhood. It’s become a piece of the town itself.

For a show with soul, the Player’s Theatre is a significant spot in Greenwich Village. This longstanding theater is a popular place for rehearsal rooms and performances. It is a quintessential aspect of the New York experience.

Offering a taste of what “hip” truly means, the Village Vanguard provides its guests with some of the most down-to-earth people alongside some of the most talented musicians around. It’s a setting that has left toes tapping since 1935.

Schools in Greenwich Village are zoned into two separate elementary districts and middle schools. From there, they apply to New York high schools. In 2016, the private Greenwich Village High School was relocated to SoHo.