Life in New York is notoriously fast paced. Most people imagine it as a typical scene in Times Square, with its dazzling bright lights and whirlwind of activity. However, not too far away is a decidedly more laidback and carefree little neighborhood called Greenwich Village. This is the perfect place to explore if you want to experience a different, more relaxed side of NYC.
Greenwich Village is located in the west side of Lower Manhattan and dates all the way back to the 16th century. It has a rich history and diverse culture, and is known for being New York’s Bohemian capital. It is considered a haven for artists, poets and musicians, and was the East Coast center of the 60’s counterculture movement. It is home to numerous art galleries, museums, excellent restaurants, acclaimed live music venues, Washington Square Park, and—as popular urban legends go—the ghosts of New York City.
It’s probably because of the Village’s colorful past that such rumors abound. Mind you, these are not just made up stories or tall tales designed to frighten young children. Reports of paranormal activity and hauntings throughout Greenwich Village are well documented, with multiple accounts to back them up. If you are interested in learning more about the city’s strange and tragic history, you must definitely go on a ghost tour in New York. During these walking ghost tours, you will be led by a knowledgeable guide through the streets and buildings of Greenwich Village, and you will hear all about the spooky happenings in the area. These tours are not for the faint of heart, but they are an exciting and thrilling adventure you won’t easily forget.
Besides ghosts and ghouls galore, Greenwich Village also offers some delicious fare for those with a more adventurous palate. For flavorful falafel generously loaded with hummus and tahini, Taim’s is a popular fast-casual spot. For the best, incredibly fresh sushi, Sushi Nakazawa is headed by Daisuke Nakazawa, a disciple of Jiro Ono from the famous documentary, “Jiro Dreams of Sushi.” For tacos with a twist, check out Empellón Taqueria, where they serve such unique creations as lobster and short rib pastrami tacos.
Greenwich Village is also one of the best places in the city to go for nightlife. It is home to some of the most legendary live music venues and comedy clubs. Arturo’s Restaurant is a wonderful Italian restaurant that not only serves authentic and delicious coal oven pizza, but also features great live jazz. Le Poisson Rouge on Bleecker Street is a highly acclaimed and historic lounge that regularly hosts festivals and concerts in addition to featuring live music from different genres every night.
Lastly, no visit to Greenwich Village is complete without a stroll through Washington Square Park, where the famous marble Washington Square Arch stands. This is arguably one of New York City’s best parks. It is a longstanding gathering place for chess enthusiasts, a great playground for kids and dogs, and just a nice place to spend some quiet time in nature.
The next time you are in NYC, or even if you’re visiting the city for the first time, be sure to set aside a day to explore Greenwich Village and discover all that it has to offer—you won’t be bored or disappointed.
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