Greenwich Village is one of New York City’s most charming and picturesque neighborhoods. It’s one of the must-visit places in New York City. It stands out for its cobblestone streets, historic architecture, and inviting corner cafes. Walking through the West Village often feels like being on the set of a classic movie. While exploring the area, don’t forget to check out the many things to do in West Village.
Many visitors find themselves captivated by the area’s old-world charm. For anyone planning a trip to New York City, exploring Greenwich Village offers a unique and memorable experience. Whether you’re a local or a tourist, this neighborhood has a variety of attractions and activities that you won’t want to miss.
List of 16 Best Things to Do in West Village
1. Enjoy a Meal at Buvette
Buvette is like a cozy slice of Paris right in New York. The cafe is known for its authentic French food, including delicious escargot. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, perfect for a relaxing meal. It’s popular, so be prepared for a wait during peak hours.
Location: 42 Grove St, New York
2. Visit the Friends’ Building
People often visit Greenwich Village for one of the famous landmarks in New York City found there. Fans of the TV show “Friends” can see the famous building where the characters Rachel, Monica, Chandler, and Joey lived. Although the show was filmed in California, the exterior shots are from a real building in New York.
Location: 90 Bedford Street at the corner of Grove Street
3. Catch a Jazz Performance at Village Vanguard
Among the most unique things to do in New York is watch a jazz show. And what better place than watching it in Greenwich’s Village Vanguard? It is a historic jazz club that has hosted legendary musicians since 1935. The intimate setting makes for a memorable experience. If you love jazz, this is a must-visit.
Location: 178 7th Ave S, New York
4. Explore Three Lives & Company Bookstore
Three Lives & Company is a cherished bookstore in New York, known for its welcoming atmosphere and knowledgeable staff. The warm, wooden interior and wide selection of books make it a perfect spot to spend an afternoon.
Location: 154 W 10th St, New York, NY
5. Take a Break at Washington Square Park
Washington Square Park is a lovely place to unwind. Known for its iconic marble arch, the park is a popular spot for locals and tourists. The lively ambiance is perfect for people-watching. If you love nature, then make sure you visit Central Park, not too far from there. There are a lot of things to do in Central Park, so make sure you plan it accordingly.
Location: Washington Square Park
6. Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth at Magnolia Bakery
Magnolia Bakery is famous for its cakes and cupcakes, but the banana pudding is the real star. This bakery was featured on “Sex and the City,” making it a popular spot. If you’re still craving something sweet, then why not visit the M&M Store in Times Square. There is a lot more things to do in Time Square, so make sure you plan out a day completely to it.
Location: 401 Bleecker St, New York, NY
7. See Carrie Bradshaw’s Home
Fans of “Sex and the City” can visit Carrie Bradshaw’s fictional home at 64 Perry Street. The brownstone is located on one of the prettiest streets in the West Village and is a great spot for a stroll.
Location: 64 Perry Street
8. Look Through the Gate at Grove Court
Grove Court is a must-see place in New York. It is a hidden gem that features a row of charming brick townhouses. Although it’s private property, you can still peek through the gate to see this picturesque spot, especially beautiful in the fall. While Grove Court isn’t a public place if you want something similar, why not visit the abandoned Dutch Reform Church Cemetry in Beacon, NY? Yes, it’s a one-hour drive, but if you plan on taking a tour of New York, you might as well take the scenic route. In addition, there are a lot of things to do in Beacon, NY, so the traveling is worth it
Location: 10 Grove Street
9. Enjoy a Cappuccino at Caffe Reggio
Caffe Reggio is famous for introducing the cappuccino to America in 1927. The cafe’s charming green exterior and lively atmosphere make it a popular spot for both locals and visitors. If you love coffee, and it’s your first time here, then it is a great thing to do in New York for first-timers.
Location: Caffe Reggio
10. Go Shopping on Bleecker Street
Bleecker Street is known for its variety of shops, ranging from high-end boutiques to unique vintage stores. It’s a great place to spend an afternoon shopping and exploring the best of what shopping in New York has to offer.
Location: Bleecker Street
11. Enjoy Late-Night Burgers at Corner Bistro
Corner Bistro is the place to go for a late-night burger. The casual setting and simple menu make it a favorite among locals for a quick, delicious meal. However, if you’re into fine dining, there is a restaurant not far from there. Enjoy late-night italian dinner at Cucina Restaurant, just a twenty-minute drive away in Woodstock. You can do far much more things in Woodstock, NY. So make sure you do plan a trip there.
Location: Corner Bistro
12. Learn About the Stonewall Inn
The Stonewall Inn is a National Historic Landmark and the site of the 1969 riots that were pivotal in the LGBTQ rights movement. It’s an important stop for anyone interested in American history.
Location: Stonewall Inn
13. Enjoy a Show at the Comedy Cellar
The Comedy Cellar is one of the best spots in New York for live comedy. Many famous comedians have performed here, making it a great place for a night out.
Location: Comedy Cellar
14. Get a Slice at John’s of Bleecker Street
John’s of Bleecker Street is famous for its brick-oven pizza. The pies are delicious and the casual atmosphere makes it a great spot for a meal with friends or family.
Location: John’s of Bleecker Street
15. Dine at Minetta Tavern
Minetta Tavern offers a mix of French and American cuisine in a stylish setting. Though it’s a bit upscale, the food and experience are worth it.
Location: Minetta Tavern
16. Visit Murray’s Cheese Flagship Store
Cheese lovers should not miss Murray’s Cheese. The store has a wide variety of cheeses and offers plenty of samples, making it a fun experience for the whole family.
Location: Murray’s Cheese
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main attractions to see in the West Village?
The West Village is home to many interesting places. One of the highlights is the Whitney Museum of American Art, which features impressive collections of American art. Another favorite spot is the Stonewall Inn, a historic bar known for its role in the LGBTQ+ rights movement. For book lovers, Three Lives & Company is a must-visit independent bookstore.
Can you suggest some popular activities at night in the West Village?
At night, the West Village comes alive with entertainment options. Enjoy live music at the historic Blue Note Jazz Club or comedy at the Village Underground. For a unique experience, visit a speakeasy like Employees Only for craft cocktails and a cozy atmosphere.
Where can one find the best places to eat in the West Village?
The West Village is known for its diverse dining options. For brunch, places like Joseph Leonard and The Waverly Inn are popular. Magnolia Bakery is famous for its cupcakes and other sweet treats. For a more formal dining experience, try Loring Place for delicious farm-to-table meals.
What are some fun and free things to do in the West Village?
There are plenty of free activities to enjoy in the West Village. Walk through the scenic Hudson River Park, which offers beautiful waterfront views and green spaces. Another great spot is Washington Square Park, where people gather to play chess, watch street performances, and relax.
Which streets in the West Village are must-see for shoppers?
The West Village has charming streets perfect for shopping. Bleecker Street is famous for its boutique shops and high-end fashion stores. Greenwich Avenue is another popular shopping destination with a mix of trendy stores and unique finds.
How can someone spend a perfect day exploring the West Village?
A perfect day in the West Village might start with a leisurely brunch at a local cafe. Spend the morning walking through Hudson River Park or the High Line. In the afternoon, explore some of the neighborhood’s independent bookstores and boutique shops. End the day with dinner at a reputed restaurant and perhaps a live show at a local music venue.
