The 19 Best Things to Do in Greenwich Village NYC

The Ultimate Greenwich Village Guide

NYC has so many neighborhoods that are truly unique in their own way. One of those neighborhoods is Greenwich Village or as New Yorkers call it, “The Village.” We just want to point out real quick that there has been some confusion about where the West Village is in comparison to Greenwich Village.

There are different opinions about Greenwich Village and the West Village: some say the West Village is part of Greenwich Village – others think both have enough differences to be considered neighborhoods in their own way.

No matter which side you take, the wonderful little bars, restaurants and parks are the same. So here you’ll find all of our favorites that, for us, make up the charm of Greenwich Village. This guide will point out exactly where to go and what to see!

By the way: you’ll find many more New York City spots in our Loving New York travel guides.

Skyscrapers are non-existent in Greenwich Village. Instead of expensive apartments in skyscrapers, there are expensive residential units within the neighborhood. Many of the brownstones and townhouses date all the way beginning of the 19th century and are now privately owned by many wealthy New Yorkers. Also, another notable thing you should take note is that the narrow streets have names and do not contain any numbers like anywhere else in Manhattan.

My TOP 5 Things To Do in Greenwich Village

Top 5 Things To Do in Greenwich Village

There are a lot of things to do in Greenwich Village, so we’ve narrowed down our top 5 just in case your time is limited. Below this list, we’ll explain other places that you should visit within the neighborhood.

  • Spend Some Time in Washington Square Park:  Washington Square Park is gorgeous. You’ll see the Washington Square Arch which is a replica of the arch in Paris. It’s an iconic location and is one of NYC’s go-to spots. It’s not just the arch that attracts tourists there. There are always events going on in the area as well.
  • Gay Street: have a look at New Yorks smallest Street
  • MacDougal Street: Foodies, make your way to this street if you’re ever in Greenwich Village. This street is loaded with bars and restaurants. It’s also a historic street as well.
  • IFC Center:  This theater screens independent movies. Once you see this center, you know you’re in the neighborhood. It’s a pretty unique experience and definitely one of the things to do in Greenwich Village.
  • Fat Cat: If you love jazz, then the Fat Cat is the place to be. Here you can enjoy drinks, live music, a ping-pong table and it’s a great place to meet with friends.

Where is Greenwich Village located?

The Greenwich Village is the part of Downtown Manhattan and is bounded on the north by 14th Street and Union Square (where the Gramercy and Chelsea begin). 7th Avenue marks the western border and Broadway and 4th Ave mark the eastern border (where NoHo and the East Village begin).

Greenwich Village NYC Map

How to Get to Greenwich Village

  • Subway: Take the N Q R W trains to 8 Street Station, or 4 5 6 L N Q R W to 14 St. – Union Square. If you’re coming from New Jersey, we think you have the best stops. There are three stops on the PATH train that go through Greenwich Village. Those stops are 14th Street station, 9th Street station and Christopher Street station.
  • Hop on Hop Off Bus: Stop 6 of the downtown loop of BIG BUS or stop 7 and/or 8 of the downtown loop of Gray Line Sightseeing. Here you find more about Hop on Hop off in NYC.

    My tip:
    the tickets for the buses are included in many of the New York City passes – which one is the best for you, you can see in my Pass Comparison for New York!

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The 19 Best Things To Do in Greenwich Village NYC

It’s a historic neighborhood and very trendy as well. There are a lot of activities that are constantly happening and there are many restaurants, bars and cafes. Greenwich Village has so much to offer which includes the smallest street in New York City. The name of the street is “Gay Street” and is located near the Gay Liberation Monument in Christopher Park and very well known in the Village.

Christopher Street in 1960 was the center of the LGBT movement and is a symbol and functions today . On Christopher Street, the Stonewall Uprising took place on June 28, 1969 at the Stonewall Inn Bar, an important event for the movement.

Every summer there’s an LGBT rights demonstration and has become a tradition. New York’s Gay Pride Week takes place in June every year, and then everything around Christopher Street is decorated. Christopher Street is a vibrant street that is well worth the visit.

Here are some more things that you can explore if you have more time:

  1. 01

    LGBT-Sign

    Other Attraction in Greenwich Village
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    Very close to the Stonewall Inn – one of the most important spots of the LGBT scene – stands this colorful street sign since 2019. For a short time, the street was even renamed as part of an art installation, Acceptance Street. You’ll find it at the corner of Gay Street and Christopher Street.

  2. 02

    Gay Pride Week & Christopher Street Parade

    Parade in Greenwich Village
    Gay_Pride_Parade_180625103025004
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    The New York Gay Pride is one of the oldest parades for gays from all over the world. The beautiful Greenwich Village has been hosting it every year since 1970. Especially Christopher Street is colorfully decorated and you can find the famous rainbow flags everywhere. Also the global company Google decorates its outer facade at this time and shows tolerance. The parade taking place at the end of June is one of the biggest parades in New York. It leads along 5th Avenue to Greenwich Street.

  3. 03

    High Line Park and Greenwich Village Food Tour

    Walking Tour in Hudson Yards
    Our Highlight
    Best_Walking_Tour_NYC_High_Line_Park_and_Greenwich_Village_Food_Tour
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    This walking tour through Greenwich Village and Chelsea is one of the best food tours New York City has to offer! Because in this part of the city there are many wonderful little food spots that you must discover. 

    In addition, you will learn many exciting anecdotes about the High Line, which connects the Hudson Yards with the Meatpacking District. This former elevated railway line was saved from demolition due to an initiative and is now one of the most popular sights in New York. All the more reason to book this awesome walking tour!

  4. 04

    Comedy Cellar

    Other Art & Culture in Greenwich Village
    New York Comedy Festival
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    The Comedy Cellar is a Manhattan comedy club where many of New York’s top comedians perform. It was founded in 1982 by the then stand-up comedian and the current TV writer and producer, Bill Grundfest. A show consists of five to seven comics, each lasting about 20 minutes. The club isn’t just exclusive to two New Yorkers. Notable comedians have also performed here such as Chris Rock, Dave Chapelle, Kevin Hart and Aziz Ansari.

    On the weekends, it can get pretty busy. A visit to the Comedy Cellar is an insider tip for anyone who wants to feel like a true New Yorker and is one of the best things to do in Greenwich Village

  5. 05

    The Stone Wall Inn: Have a drink is this historic gay bar

    Bar in West Village
    Stonewall_inn_191023115231003
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    The Stonewall Inn located in the West Village/Greenwich Village neighborhood in NYC is a gay bar and recreational tavern. But, it’s just not an ordinary bar. The place is a National Historic Landmark and was the site of the 1969 riots that focused on the relationship between the police and the LGBTQ community. This jump-started the gay rights movement that we see today and has made a lasting impact. 

  6. 06

    Spend Some Time in Washington Square Park

    Park in Greenwich Village
    Washington_Square_Park_160914155957003
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    Washington Square Park, centrally located in the Village, extends over almost 4 hectares. Close to New York University with its distinctive Washington Square Arch, a triumphal arch inaugurated in 1895, the park is a popular place to be when the weather is fine. Through the Arch you have a wonderful view along 5th Avenue to the top of the Empire State Building. 

    If you are lucky, you can even enjoy a free jazz concert from the many jazz artists of the Village. Here, friends and family meet to relax, play chess, or just in general have a good time.

  7. 07

    Listen to jazz in Village Vanguard

    Jazz Club in West Village
    Best Jazz Clubs in NYC
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    The Village Vanguard is located at Seventh Ave South in the West Village. It was first opened by Max Gordon in 1935, making it New York City’s oldest operating jazz club. Though, many people didn’t realize that this venue actually hosted beat poetry and folk music until 1957, when it became a home for jazz music. Even the legends John Coltrane and Miles Davis played here.

  8. 08

    2-Hour Cupcake Tour of Greenwich Village

    Walking Tour in Greenwich Village
    Best_Food_Walking_Tour_NYC_2_Hour_Cupcake_Tour_of_Greenwich_Village
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    If you’re into sweets and desserts you should try the famous Cupcake Tour. Sample colorful cupcakes at boutique bake shops, and build your own custom cupcake during this 2-hour tour in Greenwich Village. New York clearly has the best cupcakes and this will be the chance to try the best of them.

  9. 09

    Washington Mews: Head to the historic small street at Washington Square Park

    Other Attraction in Greenwich Village
    210827111401001_Washington_Mews_Greenwich_Village_NYC
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    Washington Mews is a very small street just one block from Washington Square park. There are many historic houses with cobblestones in front – it shows how old New York once looked like here. 

    For photographers this is a real insider tip!

  10. 10

    Dante NYC: Have a Negroni on Tap (!)

    Bar in Greenwich Village
    Our Highlight
    Dante_NYC_Bar_Greenwich_Village_New_York_210204204109001-1
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    When it comes to the best Negroni in town, there is hardly a way around Dante NYC. They are an institution in New York and have been serving their Negroni since 1915 (it’s an Italian restaurant with a small bar). You find it at the corner of Greenwich Village, SoHo and Hudson Square – here we are super-often when we are on the road in New York.

  11. 11

    West Fourth Street Courts: Watch the local play basketball

    Other Attraction in Greenwich Village
    Street_Basketball_The_Cage_New_York
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    If you’re out of the basketball season and still want to see some real action, we recommend you play street basketball on the West Fourth Street Courts. We haven’t seen such an intense game in a long time – and the spectators went really well!

  12. 12

    Rubin Museum of Arts

    Museum in Chelsea
    Rubens_Museum_of_Art_Chelsea_4193_1600x800
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    For three decades, New Yorkers Shelley and Donald Rubin have been collecting Buddhist art, mandalas and meditation images here. The exhibitions of contemporary Asian artists are very impressive.

    Recommended: The very best museums in NYC

  13. 13

    Watch independent movies at IFC Center

    Other Art & Culture in Greenwich Village
    Add to myNY added

    The IFC Center is a theater screens independent movies. Once you see this center, you know you’re in the neighborhood. It’s a pretty unique experience and definitely one of the things to do in Greenwich Village.

  14. 14

    DOMODOMO: Have one of the best Sushi in Town

    Japanese Restaurant in Greenwich Village
    domodomo_nyc_191027170248013-1
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    The DOMODOMO in Jersey City is a restaurant inspired by Japanese cuisine – super yummy!

  15. 15

    Jefferson Market Courthouse

    Building in Greenwich Village
    161011150902007_Jefferson_Market_Courthouse_Greenwich_Village_NYC
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    The Jefferson Market Courthouse is located in Greenwich Village and in 1880, the building itself and was dubbed one of the most beautiful buildings in the United States. This Gothic building was built in 1874-1877 by the architects Frederick Clark Withers and Calvert Vaux. The building was a courthouse until 1945 and now you can come here to borrow books.

  16. 16

    The Smallest Street in New York: Gay Street

    Other Attraction in Greenwich Village
    Gay Street Things to do in Greenwich Village
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    The Gay Street in the West Village in Manhattan is with its length of 85 m one of the shortest streets in New York City and is located near the Gay Liberation Monument in Christopher Park. The name of the street does not actually come from the LGBT movement, but probably from a colonial era landowner living there.

  17. 17

    Head over to the Union Square Green Market (to buy local honey!)

    Food Market in Gramercy
    Union_Square_Greenmarket_191106200349007_1920x960_1920x960
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    The Union Square Greenmarket in Manhattan is home to numerous local vendors where you can purchase fresh produce, meats and seafoods.

  18. 18

    Rosemary's: Have a romantic dinner in one of our favorite restaurants

    Italian Restaurant in Greenwich Village
    Rosemarys_NYC_180501130738006
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    Rosemary’s is a small fine Italian restaurant in the heart of Greenwich Village with a sensational selection of dishes. Whether you come here for breakfast, lunch or dinner. The kitchen crew knows their craft – the homemade pasta is a dream (gluten-free on request). By the way, the fresh herbs come from our own herb garden, which is laid out on the roof.

  19. 19

    Grey Art Gallery NYU

    Gallery in West Village
    Gallery
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    This is New York University’s fine art museum in Greenwich Village. It is right on Washington Square Park therefore making it a great location to visit. The museum puts on exhibitions about human culture where they acquire and preserve different artifacts that pertain to that specific subject.

Best Attractions in Greenwich Village NYC

Many of New York’s major New York attractions are located in walking distance of Greenwich so make sure to add them to you travel itinerary.

These are the best places to visit in Greenwich Village NYC:

  1. Bill Cosby House

    01 Bill Cosby House

    The Huxtable family from The Cosby Show lived in a brownstone in Brooklyn Heights – or, to be precise, at the fictional address 10 Stigwood Avenue. But the well-known house facade, which could be seen in many scenes, is actually not in Brooklyn at all, but in Manhattan, or, to be precise, at the address 10 Leroy Street/10 St. Luke’s Place.

    Interestingly, this building was not a typical single-family home, but a private residence that was divided into several small apartments. Although many series were shot in Los Angeles at the time, Bill Cosby insisted on producing The Cosby Show in New York. The first episodes were shot in NBC’s Studio One in Brooklyn, and production later moved to Kaufman Astoria Studios in Queens.

  2. Bleecker Street NYC

    02 Bleecker Street

    Bleecker Street is a pleasant change from the turbulent Herald Square or 5th Avenue. It is considered one of the best shopping streets in the world. Why? There are many small and hip designer stores, record stores and second hand stores and lesser known retail brands.

  3. New York Comedy Festival

    03 Comedy Cellar

    The Comedy Cellar is a Manhattan comedy club where many of New York’s top comedians perform. It was founded in 1982 by the then stand-up comedian and the current TV writer and producer, Bill Grundfest. A show consists of five to seven comics, each lasting about 20 minutes. The club isn’t just exclusive to two New Yorkers. Notable comedians have also performed here such as Chris Rock, Dave Chapelle, Kevin Hart and Aziz Ansari.

    On the weekends, it can get pretty busy. A visit to the Comedy Cellar is an insider tip for anyone who wants to feel like a true New Yorker and is one of the best things to do in Greenwich Village

  4. 04 Film Forum

    The Film Forum in SoHo/Greenwich Village is a non-profit theater that’s known for showing independent flicks. If you’re a big movie person, this place is for you. The theater opened in 1970 and is an iconic spot.

  5. 240611154907003___Copyright_N.Charles

    05 Films on the Green

    Films on the Green is a free outdoor French film festival, that takes place from May 31 to September 6 in the parks in Manhattan and Brooklyn. This year, the festival features 11 captivating films celebrating the excitement, competition, and triumphs of sports.

    The lineup includes diverse sports films, from adrenaline-pumping boxing matches to the graceful strokes of artistic swimming, appealing to audiences of all ages.

    Discover the resilience of real-life soccer legends, or immerse yourself in the high-stakes world of championship tournaments like the Tour de France.

  6. Gay Street Things to do in Greenwich Village

    06 Gay Street

    The Gay Street in the West Village in Manhattan is with its length of 85 m one of the shortest streets in New York City and is located near the Gay Liberation Monument in Christopher Park. The name of the street does not actually come from the LGBT movement, but probably from a colonial era landowner living there. 

  7. 07 IFC Center

    The IFC Center is a theater screens independent movies. Once you see this center, you know you’re in the neighborhood. It’s a pretty unique experience and definitely one of the things to do in Greenwich Village.

  8. 161011150902007_Jefferson_Market_Courthouse_Greenwich_Village_NYC

    08 Jefferson Market Courthouse

    The Jefferson Market Courthouse is located in Greenwich Village and in 1880, the building itself and was dubbed one of the most beautiful buildings in the United States. This Gothic building was built in 1874-1877 by the architects Frederick Clark Withers and Calvert Vaux. The building was a courthouse until 1945 and now you can come here to borrow books.

  9. 190624142006002_Gay_Prode_Strassenschild_1600x800

    09 LGBT-Sign

    Very close to the Stonewall Inn – one of the most important spots of the LGBT scene – stands this colorful street sign since 2019. For a short time, the street was even renamed as part of an art installation, Acceptance Street. You’ll find it at the corner of Gay Street and Christopher Street.

  10. Cinderella the Musical

    10 The Players Theatre

    The Players Theatre in New York City is a historic and multifaceted performing arts venue nestled in the heart of Greenwich Village. Constructed in 1907, this architectural gem was transformed into a theater in the late 1950s, becoming a cultural cornerstone in the neighborhood. Its rich history and versatility have made it a magnet for performing artists and theater enthusiasts alike.

    The theater complex offers a diverse range of spaces, including a main stage with over 200 seats for Off-Broadway productions, the intimate Steve and Marie Sgouros theater with 50 seats, four well-appointed rehearsal studios, an office suite tailored for arts organizations, and the iconic Cafe Wha?. The latter has been a beloved fixture in Greenwich Village since the 1960s, adding to the vibrant atmosphere of the venue. Whether you’re attending a captivating performance, taking part in rehearsals, or enjoying a meal at Cafe Wha?, the Players Theatre continues to be a cultural hub in this historic neighborhood.

  11. Titanic Exhibition in NYC

    11 Titanic - The Exhibition

    There is a very special exhibition for all fans of the movie Titanic in New York: Titanic – The Exhibition offers not only replicas of the ship’s interior, but it also takes you back in time with the help of original belongings of the passengers.

    You have the opportunity to go on a journey through time in the beautiful Greenwich Village. Titanic – The Exhibition is a very special experience for anyone interested in the history of the ocean liner. With photos and personal items, you’ll be taken back to 1912, when the Titanic set sail on its first and last ocean voyage. While an audio guide provides you with reports from survivors, you can take a closer look at the recreated interiors and let the differences between a luxurious first-class suite and a simple third-class cabin sink in.

    This exhibit is on in New York City through the end of February and is a must-see for all fans of the ship once considered unsinkable.

  12. 210827111401001_Washington_Mews_Greenwich_Village_NYC

    12 Washington Mews

    Washington Mews is a very small street just one block from Washington Square park. There are many historic houses with cobblestones in front – it shows how old New York once looked like here. 

    For photographers this is a real insider tip!

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Best Guided Tours in Greenwich Village

The Village offers plenty of excellent restaurants. The bests chefs from all over the world come here to create their best dishes for the locals. We have tried the Food Tour of Greenwich Village that takes you through various eras of dining and shopping  in Greenwich Village and is worth trying.

These are our TOP Greenwich Village Walking Tours that we can highly recommend:

  1. Gangsters_and_Ghosts_Tour_in_NYC_by_Viator

    01 Gangsters and Ghosts Tour in NYC

    Immerse yourself in the rich history of New York City with an intriguing Gangsters and Ghosts walking tour. Join your guide for a unique journey into the city’s past, exploring its infamous crimes, notorious gangsters, clandestine deals, and haunted structures. Meander through a variety of downtown neighborhoods, including Little Italy, Chinatown, and the West Village, as you soak up chilling tales of spirits and mobsters. Experience downtown Manhattan’s history on this one-of-a-kind tour, gain insightful knowledge about local history from your guide, and explore several neighborhoods all in one fascinating journey.

  2. Best_Food_Walking_Tour_NYC_2_Hour_Cupcake_Tour_of_Greenwich_Village

    02 2-Hour Cupcake Tour of Greenwich Village

    If you’re into sweets and desserts you should try the famous Cupcake Tour. Sample colorful cupcakes at boutique bake shops, and build your own custom cupcake during this 2-hour tour in Greenwich Village. New York clearly has the best cupcakes and this will be the chance to try the best of them.

  3. Best_Walking_Tour_NYC_New_York_City_Ghost_Tour_of_Greenwich_Village

    03 Ghost Tour of Greenwich Village NYC

    Greenwich Village is for me one of the most beautiful neighborhoods of New York and has a lot to offer. But it also has a haunted side in stories, which will be shown to you on this walking tour. This ghost tour through Greenwich Village is full of spooky tales of lost children, phantoms and celebrity ghosts – and not only at Halloween a popular tour. 

    Along the way, you’ll learn many interesting anecdotes as you stroll through Washington Square Park, West 10th Street and the campus of New York University. The Greenwich Village Ghost Tour is a real highlight!

  4. Best_Haunted_Walking_Tour_NYC_Ghosts_of_Greenwich_Village__2_Hour_Private_Walking_Tour

    04 Ghosts of Greenwich Village: 2-Hour Private Walking Tour

    Do you like stories about ghosts? Then this private haunted tour of Greenwich Village in the evening is a great option! In two hours, you’ll hear lots of haunted stories about people who have suddenly disappeared or are haunted around Washington Square Park and New York University. And of course: also a lot about this beautiful neighborhood of NYC!

  5. Best_Walking_Tour_NYC_Greenwich_Village_Pizza_Walk

    05 Greenwich Village Pizza Walk

    Pizza and New York simply belong together! Next to the famous Brooklyn Pizza Walking Tour, this tour through Greenwich Village and Little Italy is one of the most popular food tours in NYC. Included in the price are 3 slices of pizza from different stores and during the tour you will also learn a lot about these neighborhoods from a New York guide.

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    06 Greenwich Village Walking Tour

    Greenwich Village has a reputation as a magnet for Bohemians and intellectuals. Generations of artists and writers have given the neighborhood its free-spirited identity. From Bleecker St. to MacDougal St. and Sheridan Square, this tour will show you some of the best sights in Greenwich Village and tell you the story behind them.

  7. Best_Walking_Tour_NYC_Manhattan_Neighborhood_Private_Customized_Walking_Tour

    07 Manhattan Neighborhood Private Customized Walking Tour

    You already have an idea of which neighborhoods and sights of New York you want to see? Then this walking tour is perfect for you, because you can create your individual route with your New York guide. 

    Each of the many neighborhoods has its own charm and character, which is what makes New York so charming and interesting. Therefore, the right mix can show you the best picture of the city. Combine Times Square and Broadway with Greenwich Village and Soho, or schedule Greenwich Village or Chelsea with the High Line. The beauty of this private tour is that you set the schedule. If you particularly like a place, you can just stay longer!

    With over 350 positive reviews, this private walking tour of NYC is one of the best!

If guided tours interest you, be sure to check out the Best Walking Tours NYC!

Best Greenwich Village Restaurants in NYC

These are our best places to eat in Greenwich Village NYC:

  1. 211206122150001_Woodfired_Oven_Pizza

    01 Carroll Place

    Carroll Place on Bleecker Street has an exciting concept, as it’s both a gastropub and wine bar where you can enjoy Italian-inspired food. It’s one of our favorite spots when we go for brunch in New York. The atmosphere is relaxed, the vibe is always good and the food is delicious!

    Our favorites have been the pizza with truffles and the Pasta Vongole. The fact that the pizza oven is wood fired gives the pizzas a taste like a pizza should have! By the way, next time try the Carroll Place Burger with Gorgonzola. This one looked mega delicious too!

    My tip: if you want to go for brunch, be sure to reserve a table in advance!

  2. Dante_NYC_Bar_Greenwich_Village_New_York_210204204109001-1

    02 Dante NYC

    When it comes to the best Negroni in town, there is hardly a way around Dante NYC. They are an institution in New York and have been serving their Negroni since 1915 (it’s an Italian restaurant with a small bar). You find it at the corner of Greenwich Village, SoHo and Hudson Square – here we are super-often when we are on the road in New York.

  3. Vegetarian

    03 Beatnic West Village

    Ok, the name can be a bit misleading, because the Beatnic West Village is actually located in Greenwich Village (the discussion about the neighborhoods and their exact boundaries is typical for New York 🙂 ). Anyway, Beatnic is a really popular vegan restaurant right on Bleecker Street.

    It’s super-stylish, beautifully decorated and so delicious! And I say that, who likes everything around steaks, burgers and BBQ so much. Everything is freshly prepared, there are a wide variety of salads, sandwiches and burgers – all vegan, of course.  

    Really colorful is the beet ketchup and the avocado pesto. My tip: try the guac burger and the magic mushroom salad. That alone is worth a visit!

  4. Cuba_Header

    04 Cuba

    New Yorkers love the restaurant, especially because of its authenticity. The Cuban music, Latin American interior, excellent mojitos and friendly Cuban staff make this restaurant a must-go. The cuisine is absolutely recommendable. Everything is to the point and it tastes great. My tip: the Churrasco. With it a good wine or a glass of sangria.

  5. domodomo_nyc_191027170248013-1

    05 DOMODOMO NYC

    The DOMODOMO in Jersey City is a restaurant inspired by Japanese cuisine – super yummy!

Looking for more recommendations? We’ve got you covered! Here you find the Best West Village Restaurants in NYC.

Best Greenwich Village Bars in NYC

And these are my personal recommendations when it comes to bars in Alphabet City – you will love it!

  1. Bar_170423115755006-2

    01 55 Bar

    The 55 Bar is a Prohibition-era dive bar that offers nightly funk, blues, and jazz performances in Greenwich Village. Essentially considered the gem of Greenwich, it’s been in business for over 100 years, but don’t let their tagline fool you – it’s not a place for swing or retro jazz. In fact, in recent years, this homey downstairs club has hosted some of the top innovative names from modern jazz. 

    The 55 Bar charges a modest cover, but they book major talents, so the experience is well worth the cost. Some patrons even claim that this bar is among the best jazz venues in all of New York City. It’s been a longtime home for acts like Wayne Krantz, Mike Stern, and Sweet Georgia Brown. They offer live music every night of the year, and you can expect to hear something ranging from the blues or jazz to avant-garde varieties. 

  2. Wine Bar NYC

    02 Amelie Wine Bar

    When Paris meets New York, such wonderful places like the Amelie wine bar in Washington Square Park are born. Fantastic wines and little treats are available here at affordable prices. Definitely one of our favorites in the city.

  3. bar_dan_gold_710494_unsplash

    03 Amity Hall

    Especially when the Carolina Panthers play, the atmosphere in Amity Hall is boiling! The bar is huge and the game is broadcast here on a 6 meter flatscreen and many other screens. Besides the classic Chicken Wings you can also get great burgers here.

  4. Bar_170423115755006-2

    04 Analogue

    In the bar in the heart of Greenwich Village you can enjoy your drinks in a relaxed atmosphere. Live music is also played here from time to time.

  5. Bar

    05 Angel's Share

    Angel’s Share is a speakeasy-style cocktail bar originally located in the East Village. The bar opened in 1993 and then became very popular around 2015. People would stand in line at the door and the waiting times became longer. After nearly 30 years in the East Village, Angel’s Share closed in early 2022.

    In the meantime, the bar moved to a new location in the West Village. The re-opening took place in June 2023.

Best Greenwich Village Cafés in NYC

If you don’t want to necessarily dine-in, you can always check out some cafes. There are artisanal tea and coffee shops and bakeries throughout the neighborhood and are great places to visit for a quick break.

  1. BANTER NYC outside

    01 Banter NYC

    The Banter NYC is one of the best and most popular spots for brunch in the Greenwich Village of New York and is also always high on my list. The espresso is super delicious, not to mention the breakfast.

  2. Bluestone Lane Collective Cafe

    02 Bluestone Lane West Village Coffee Shop

    Bluestone Lane Coffee now has several locations in New York. The coffee is roasted by hand, is fairly traded and there are only 100% natural ingredients on the bagels and sandwiches. What you will immediately notice: the locations are really nicely decorated – definitely very cozy and unique!

  3. Cafe

    03 Bus Stop Cafe

    Bus Stop Cafe is one of our favorite breakfast spots in the West Village. It is a charming place and exactly what you call and expect as a typical American diner. Very authentic, friendly and therefore absolutely recommendable!

  4. Coffee shops Greenwich Village

    04 Caffe Reggio

    In 1927, New Yorkers were sold their first cappuccino here. Not much has changed in the store since then. You should definitely try the homemade tiramisu – a treat!

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    05 Magnolia Bakery

    The classic! Carrie and her girls have eaten delicious cupcakes here. An absolute must-do for Sex and the City fans and all those who can’t resist the sweet treat.

Best Hotels in Greenwich Village NYC

Staying in the Village has many advantages. You’ll always be surrounded by some of the best bars, restaurants, cafes, galleries and shops in NYC. If you decide to stay in the neighborhood please check out these amazing hotels.

  1. The_Marlton_Hotel_Boutique_Hotel_Greenwich_Village_NYC_by_Booking

    01 The Marlton Hotel

    4 stars | The Marlton Hotel is located in the heart of Greenwich Village – just one block from Washington Square Park. It is a beautiful bohemian-style boutique hotel and feels like a little part of Paris in the middle of New York City. 

    The building, lobby and rooms have been lovingly restored and have a very special atmosphere. 

    My tip: Book one of the rooms on the upper floors. They have a balcony from which you can look out over Washington Square Park!

  2. Best Hotels in Greenwich Village NYC

    02 Walker Hotel Greenwich Village

    4 Stars | This boutique hotel is located in the heart of Greenwich Village (such a beautiful area) and offers everything you would expect from this kind of place: The interior design is very aesthetic and reminiscent of the roaring 20s. Small details, such as a retro telephone, adorn the rooms and just make the place quite special. Simply beautiful!

  3. Washington_Square_Hotel__Greenwich_Village_New_York_Booking

    03 Washington Square Hotel 

    3 Stars | The hotel is located directly at the beautiful Washington Square Park and scores with a spa and a great restaurant. You can expect chic rooms that are not lacking in the coziness department. A continental breakfast is included in the price.

Recommended article: Our complete list of all recommended Hotels in Greenwich Village NYC and the Best Hotels in NYC.

Shopping in Greenwich Village

Just like many neighborhoods in NYC, you won’t really find mainstream stores in this neighborhood. What you will find however are specialty boutiques and vintage stores. The price points are a little bit higher in this area. Stores like Star Struck Vintage Clothing and Brooklyn Industries are spread throughout the Village. If you’re into chocolate, the popular Jacques Torres Chocolate also has a store here. Come by the neighborhood and check out what they have to offer.

Neighborhoods Nearby

If you enjoyed Greenwich Village, then make your way to East Village, SoHo or even the Meatpacking District. Each one of these neighborhoods are different from each other but are also very close. The beauty of New York City is that each neighborhood has their own distinct character and vibe. Sometimes, you might not even feel like you’re in NYC anymore.

Profilbild Steffen Kneist
About the author

Steffen

I'm a true New York fan! Not only have I visited the city over 25 times but also have I spent several months here at a time. On my blog I show you the best and most beautiful spots of the city, so that you have a really good time! You can also find lots of insider tips in our New York travel guide. Also check out my hotel finder for New York!

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