NYC Daily Adventure: Greenwich Village

Jen’s Take:
Following the movie A Complete Unknown, Bob Dylan’s life in the 1960s, NYC Daily Adventure to Manhattan’s Greenwich Village on the books! Without a doubt, it’s still one of my favorite spots to explore with its web of twists and turns. No orderly numbered grid to find here—Get ready for named streets like Bedford, Grove, Christopher, many more.
When “blowing in the wind” on double-deckers, the route splits the neighborhood along 6th Ave into the livelier side (The Village) and the quieter side (West Village). The neighborhood’s history goes far beyond Dylan’s arrival on MacDougal Street. Filled with cafes, book, record and unique shops that have you “slow down” rather than “move too fast” in a Simon & Garfunkel way.
Helpful Tips
- Subway Access: While there are many nearby trains, highly recommend West 4th Street-Washington Square Station.
- Phone Usage: Yes, bring a charged phone; however, NO to being all consumed by it. Instead, let the sidewalks do the talking! Spend 15 minutes, then 30, then an hour exploring without navigation. Wander into new places interacting with locals, soaking it all in. Figuratively lost in The Village is a feeling you may miss if your phone is the driving force!
My Daily Adventure Greenwich Village Checklist
- Washington Square: Generally “people watching” is an approved NYC spectator sport, I call it “park benchin.” While you see locals you would not see in your hometown, self-expression is a pillar of this great city. Don’t forget to look for the Empire State Building through the square’s iconic arch.
- MacDougal Street: Still buzzing with energy with its coffeehouses, venues, & comedy clubs. Cafe Wha? and Blue Note Jazz Club nearby.
- Waverly Diner: In addition to checking off cheesecake, pizza, bagel—check off that Classic American diner!
- Village Revival Records: Undoubtedly a record shop that transports you to the 1960’s, no matter your generation.
- Three Lives Bookshop: Certainly a charming corner bookstore with perfect street-scape vibes.
- Tattoos and Piercings: Although my Snoopy tattoo is Made in Brooklyn, consider Moon Sheen Tattoo and NYC Ink. By the way, NYC Ink formerly The Gaslight Cafe.
- McNulty’s Tea & Coffee Co or Porto Rico Importing Co: Also grab a pound of Village coffee beans to bring home.
- 90 Bedford Street: “Pivot!” in order to capture a pic at the famous Friends apartment.
- Jefferson Market Library: Once a courthouse adjacent to Women’s House of Detention until 1971.
- IFC Center: While catching a movie seems ordinary, reconsider one at this special theater showcasing independent, foreign, & documentaries.
- Perfect Pairing suggestion: Movie + Washington Square + Coffee shop
Hire Me
Besides 15 yrs experience as foot, bike, & bus guide, I design “no physical guide” NYC Daily Adventure itineraries so that you can ease through the city like a local without the high rent. Let me create your personalized NYC itinerary, turning your inspiration into reality. Click “Custom No Guide Needed: Build My Itinerary, Jen” to get started. Alternatively, I’m available for private tours. Visit my website to reach out.