Considered the symbolic heart of Greenwich Village, Washington Square Park is one of New York City’s most popular public spaces. The Washington Arch is its most predominant feature, added to the park in 1889, with an inscription showcasing a George Washington quote.
Pass beneath the arch and admire the park’s black-brick paths and vintage-style streetlights that give it a 19th-century ambience. Mingle with locals at this bustling 3.9-hectare park, where you can watch NYU students congregate around fountains and watch an ever-changing array of performers, buskers and musicians.
Multiple forms of recreation are on offer, including chess and bocce ball, in addition to a full line-up of annual events, including the Washington Square Music Festival, Movie Night Under the Arch and Washington Square Outdoor Art Exhibit. Afterwards, enjoy classic New York eats at Mamoun’s, Gray’s Papaya and Joe’s Pizza or catch a show at the renowned Comedy Cellar.
Getting around Washington Square Park
Washington Square Park is in Greenwich Village in New York City, located at Fifth Avenue between MacDougal Street and University Place. Take a train to West 4th/Washington Square, 8th Street or Union Square, while Citibike stations are also dotted around the park. It’s 25 kilometres from John F. Kennedy International Airport.