Greenwich Village

Overview

Greenwich Village is Manhattan's legendary bohemian neighborhood, a tree-lined labyrinth of pre-war brownstones, independent bookshops, jazz clubs, and the spiritual home of America's counterculture movements.

Highlights

• Washington Square Park: The neighborhood's vibrant heart, anchored by the marble arch and surrounded by NYU buildings and street performers.
• Bleecker Street: The historic commercial spine, now a mix of high-end boutiques, classic record shops, and Italian bakeries.
• Comedy Cellar: The world-famous comedy club where Dave Chappelle, Amy Schumer, and Jerry Seinfeld regularly perform unannounced drop-in sets.

History

In the 1950s–60s, the Village was the epicenter of the Beat Generation, the folk music revival (Bob Dylan at Cafe Wha?), and the modern LGBTQ+ rights movement (the 1969 Stonewall uprising).

Visitor Tips

• Walking: The Village's irregular street grid predates Manhattan's 1811 grid plan — getting "lost" is part of the charm.
• Jazz: The Village Vanguard has hosted live jazz nightly since 1935.
• Duration: 2–3 hours.