Fun Things To Do In The West Village NYC (From A Local)

By Jessie Festa | Updated on February 11, 2026

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By Jessie Festa. This guide to the West Village was sponsored by the Washington Square Hotel. As always, all opinions are my own.

Looking for fun things to do in the West Village NYC?

As a native New Yorker and a licensed NYC tour guide, I’m constantly asked my opinion on what the must-have experiences are in the city.

My response is always the same:

Choose a neighborhood, go there, and wander.

One of my favorite New York neighborhoods for this is the West Village, as well as the adjoining Greenwich Village.

There’s just so much to do and see in NYC’s West Village, and the ambiance created by the leafy parks, historic architecture, and, in certain areas, cobbled streets and sidewalks, make the local experiences even more enjoyable.

In this neighborhood guide, I’ll tell you about some of my favorite things to do and see in the West Village, including where to stay.

On that note, let’s dive into the NYC travel guide.

📸 Shameless plug: Looking to capture your time in NYC with beautiful photos? Book a Private Photo Journey, a walking tour that includes photos of your group to keep. Or get a styled, custom shoot that tells your unique story through a NYC Influencer Shoot or Professional New York City Shoot. These experiences are offered by Jessie on a Journey’s sister company, NYC Photo Journeys. Email [email protected] with inquiries.

Table of Contents

West Village Google Map

If you’d like to save the West Village New York itinerary below as a Google Map, you’re in luck! Click here for access to my Ultimate Travel Planning Kit.

The kit contains travel planning printables, quizzes, guides, resources, and Google Maps — including one for the West Village that you can download right to your phone. It’ll make your NYC trip planning experience much easier.

Stay: Washington Square Hotel

The whole formation of this Greenwich Village guide came thanks to a sponsored stay invitation from the Washington Square Hotel.

This 152-room boutique property sits on a quaint cobbled street of NYC full of 18th-century architecture, right off Washington Square Park.

As soon as I walked through the hotel doors I felt as if I’d been transported to old-world Europe, with a grand marble staircase and check-in desk, oval-shaped portraits with black and white photos, lots of deep reds and gold, and a history dating back to 1902 when it was the 8-story residential Hotel Earle.

The most eye-catching items are the work of Rita Paul, former owner of the property.

Tiles hand-painted by her hang in the entrance hall, and some accent the floor of the North Square restaurant. More of her tile art brings life to the lobby walls, giving the hotel a bohemian feel.

Rita also worked with Christina Ziegler of CZ Design to bring art deco design to the Washington Square Hotel, thoughtfully redesigning rooms with inspiration from that period.

➡️ Click here to check nightly rates, which include a continental breakfast and free Wi-Fi.

A grid collage featuring seven different interior and exterior shots of the Washington Square Hotel in NYC. The top row shows the elegant white stone entrance labeled "Washington Square" and a guest room featuring a black leather headboard with three framed portraits above white pillows. The middle row highlights the hotel's classic design with a winding staircase in the lobby, a top-down view of black-and-white checkered floor tiles, and an ornate oval mirror flanked by glowing sconces. The bottom row includes a mirror selfie of a woman in an elevator and a clean, modern white-tiled bathroom. — Moments from my stay at the Washington Square Hotel, one of the best hotels in West Village NYC.

Other West Village Stay Options

Looking for other West Village accommodation?

➡️ Click here for a list of West Village hotels!

You can also use this accommodation map to research hotels and rentals. It’s currently set to the West Village, but you can easily change it to your preferred NYC neighborhood:

And if you’re interested in living in a hotel in NYC, there are numerous extended stay hotel options too!

Introduction To The West Village Neighborhood

What can be confusing to many visitors is how NYC neighborhoods quickly blend into one another.

One second you’re in the Lower East, then suddenly you’re in the East Village until you’ve stepped right into Alphabet City.

So, exactly where is the West Village?

You can find it just south of Chelsea and The High Line, and just north of SoHo and Lower Manhattan.

In terms of Greenwich Village vs West Village, they can sometimes be synonymous, as the West Village encompasses the western part of Greenwich Village (debatably west of 7th Avenue).

Greenwich Village — aka “The Village” — has always been synonymous with bohemian culture and the LGBTQIA+ community.

In fact, it’s here where you’ll find the Stonewall Inn, a gay bar where the modern LGBTQIA+ movement was born on June 28th, 1969 when patrons fought back against the sanctioned harassment by the police. This was during a time when it was illegal to serve the gay and trans community alcohol or for them to dance together.

Today, the Stonewall Inn is a National Historic Landmark.

You can read the whole history here or watch this short documentary:

What’s very cool about the neighborhood is it still has a very bohemian, independent feel.

Sure, you’ll find some big brand stores like Burberry and L’Occitane en Provence, but even those look like local boutiques amidst the plethora of red brick buildings with sprawling ivy, Italian-style churches, storefronts with smiling shopkeepers offering samples, leafy streets (some with genuine cobbled streets and red brick sidewalks), and historic homes and eateries.

For visitors who have only explored Midtown Manhattan, you may think I’m bluffing; luckily, this West Village guide will prove I’m not.

📸 Want beautiful photos taken of you in scenic New York spots? Book a Private Photo Journey, a walking tour that includes photos of your group to keep. Or get a styled, custom shoot that tells your unique story through an NYC Influencer Shoot or Professional New York City Shoot. Email [email protected] with inquiries.

Is The West Village Safe?

Okay, so you probably get by now that the neighborhood is hip…

But, is it safe?

As a local, I consider the West Village to be one of New York City’s safest neighborhoods.

And the data confirms this. In fact, Property Club ranks it within the top eight safest neighborhoods in NYC.

That being said, you of course always want to be cautious while exploring Manhattan and the other boroughs.

I recommend downloading a few personal safety apps and investing in some travel safety gear — like a Speakeasy Pickpocket-Proof Scarf and She’s Birdie Personal Safety Alarm (15% off with code “JESSIEONAJOURNEY15”).

Moreover, avoid wearing headphones at night so that you can be fully aware of your surroundings.

A ground-level street view looking south down Sullivan Street in the West Village, NYC, on a bright, sunny day. A yellow taxi dominates the foreground, driving toward the viewer. In the distance, the One World Trade Center tower is framed perfectly by the canyon of buildings and autumn trees. To the left is the stone facade of a church featuring a white statue of a saint, and to the right is the red-brick exterior of Brigadeiro Bakery. The sun glows brightly at the top of the frame, casting long shadows across the asphalt. — View of the One World Trade from Sullivan Street in the West Village. Photo via Jessie Festa.

Fun Things To Do In The West Village NYC

Wondering what to do in the West Village? I share my favorite activities below!

Explore The West Village With A Local Photographer

Need help capturing the best West Village views and attractions — with you in the photos?

My company NYC Photo Journeys offers private New York City photo tours that include a tour with a licensed guide as well as high-quality photos of your group to keep.

Or, if you’d prefer to explore sans tour and maximize the amount of photos you get, an NYC Influencer Shoot or Professional Photoshoot in NYC are both excellent options. You’ll get plenty of photos in the best West Village spots!

Check out @NYCPhotoTour on Instagram for examples.

You can email me at [email protected] with inquiries.

A medium-wide shot of a smiling woman with long dark hair sitting on the stone edge of the fountain in Washington Square Park, NYC. She is wearing a navy blue floral-embroidered maxi dress and has both arms raised joyfully toward the sky. In the background, water spray from the fountain frames the Washington Square Arch and the tall, historic residential buildings of Greenwich Village under a clear, bright sky. — Photographing a guest in Washington Square Park in the West Village. Photo via NYC Photo Journeys.

Photograph The West Village Architecture

I’m far from an architecture buff, but step out of the hotel and you’ll find yourself whispering, “This street is gorgeous!” every other minute.

One of my favorite things to do in Greenwich Village / West Village — and in NYC in general — is wandering with my camera and photographing the beautiful buildings in their various styles.

This neighborhood is one of the few to have a wooden home, dubbed Twin Peaks, as they’re technically now illegal due to fire codes.

It was originally built in 1830 as a pitched-roof wooden cabin for artists. You’ll also find Federal-style homes (the oldest house in Greenwich Village dates back to 1799 and is at 77 Bedford Street), Victorian Gothic structures, Gothic Revival, and more.

One of the most picturesque streets in the West Village is Grove Street. This short street only runs five blocks, and is known for its quaint, uniform Federal-style brick houses which beg to be photographed.

Additionally, Grove Street is home to a secret gem: Grove Court.

Located in an alley nestled between 10 and 12 Grove Street, this little cul-de-sac contains a manicured garden and six small row houses. It’s an idyllic oasis hidden just steps away from the bustling streets of the West Village.

Want to explore the local architecture with a guide? A Private Greenwich Village Tour allows you to see the best of the area with a local expert.

A ground-level street view of a row of classic brownstones in the West Village, NYC. The historic residential buildings feature intricate stonework, arched doorways, and dark metal railings on their stoops. A yellow taxi is parked further down the narrow, one-way street, which is lined with bare trees casting soft shadows. The scene is captured in warm, late-afternoon light, emphasizing the neighborhood's historic charm. — The West Village is home to beautiful brownstones and architecture. Photo: kasto via Depositphotos.

See Famous NYC Houses

Getting back to architecture, the West Village is where you’ll find New York City’s narrowest house at 75-1/2 Bedford.

Despite its shockingly skinny shape, the latest owner reportedly paid $3.25 million for it.

Moreover, the property has been home to numerous celebrities and notable residents over the years, like Cary Grant and Edna St. Vincent Millay.

A low-angle shot of the famous Skinny House at 75 1/2 Bedford Street in the West Village, NYC. The narrow, three-story red brick home features a stepped gabled roofline and is squeezed tightly between two larger brick townhomes. In the foreground, two blossoming trees with white flowers frame the architecture against a pale, overcast sky. — Skinny house! Photo via Jessie Festa.

Nearby on Bedford and Grove, right above the Little Owl Restaurant, you’ll also find the facade of Monica’s apartment from Friends.

One of the creepier houses in the West Village is known as the House of Death. Over on West 10th Street, you’ll find this famous New York City haunted house.

Originally built in 1856, this brownstone became known for the bad luck that befell many of its residents.

One of its most famous people who called the House of Death home was the writer Mark Twain, who lived there for a little over a year. Many later tenants and visitors have claimed to have spotted his ghost roaming the halls of the house.

Have A New York Moment On Avenue Of The Americas

The Washington Square Hotel is just off Avenue of the Americas (6th Avenue), which I absolutely love walking. It’s one of the best spots in West Village!

Here’s why:

Look north and you’ve got a prime view of the Empire State Building. Look south and right there is the One World Trade Center.

The avenue in this neighborhood is also filled with romantic brick eateries covered in sprawling ivy and dangling plants (like the yummy Olio e Piú) and shops and eateries adorned with retro signs (like the Waverly Restaurant and C.O. Bigelow Apothecaries, open since 1838).

A colorful, eye-level shot of a retail display shelf at C.O. Bigelow Apothecaries in NYC, featuring a wide variety of TOCCA beauty and fragrance products. The top shelf holds pink-and-white packaged lotions, body washes, and tall floral-patterned boxes alongside reed diffusers in round glass bottles. The bottom shelf showcases rows of rounded glass perfume bottles with gold caps, assorted hand creams in soft pink tubes, and boxed sets. A small green sign in the center asks, "Which TOCCA girl are you?" and is flanked by a clothesline of small black-and-white photos of women clipped with wooden pins. The products are neatly organized on dark glass shelves against a warm, light-wood background. — Whimsical toiletries at C.O. Bigelow Apothecaries. Photo via Jessie Festa.

Enjoy Art & Culture In The Park

One of the many reasons NYC is so famous is its focus on public art.

The parks in the West Village aren’t just great for grabbing some peace in a green space; they’re also good for exploring the arts — for free!

Start with the small and historic Christopher Park and check out the Gay Liberation sculpture by George Segal.

As I noted earlier, the Stonewall Inn was where the modern LGBTQIA+ movement began, and this bar sits adjacent to the park.

Here you’ll find four white sculpted figures — two standing males and two seated females — depicting the comfort of the individuals to be themselves in public.

A ground-level shot of the Gay Liberation Monument by George Segal, located in Christopher Park across from the Stonewall Inn in the West Village. The installation features four life-sized bronze sculptures painted in stark white: two men standing and talking, and two women sitting together on a black park bench. The figures are positioned on a red-brick plaza, with black iron fencing and historic West Village brick buildings visible in the background under a bright, overcast sky. — Gay Liberation Monument. Photo via Jessie Festa.

There is also Washington Square Park, one of the top West Village attractions.

Here, you can walk down quiet green and bench-lined paths or through the 1892 grand marble triumphal arch into a giant square full of locals reading books, playing instruments (there’s even midday piano accompaniment), juggling, ribbon dancing, creating bubble art, singing, and more.

Not only is spending time here enjoyable, but it’s totally free if you’re exploring NYC on a budget!

A grid collage featuring five different scenes from Washington Square Park in NYC. The top row shows a low-angle shot of the Washington Square Arch against a cloudy sky and a close-up of a street artist in a denim shirt drawing intricate, colorful chalk patterns on the hexagonal pavement. The middle row features a woman creating massive, iridescent bubbles with a wand, a peaceful view down a paved park path lined with bare trees and empty benches, and a street performer in a grey tank top spinning a large red hula hoop. The images capture the lively and diverse atmosphere of the park on an overcast day. — Scenes from Washington Square Park. Photos via Jessie Festa.

Catch A Film At The IFC Center

The West Village is a neighborhood known for its arts and culture, which is on full display at the IFC Center—one of the best independent cinemas in New York City.

Perfect for a rainy day or date night activity, catching a movie at the IFC Center is one of the top activities in the West Village.

The cinema is housed in the historic Waverly Theater, and offers screenings of indie films, cult classic, foreign films, documentaries, and more.

Want beautiful photos taken of you in scenic New York spots? Book a Private Photo Journey, a walking tour that includes photos of your group to keep. Or get a styled, custom shoot that tells your unique story through an NYC Influencer Shoot or Professional New York City Shoot. Email [email protected] with inquiries.

Enjoy West Village Shopping

Discover Vintage & Specialty Goods In The West Village

No day trip to NYC’s West Village would be complete without some shopping. Whether you’re looking to treat yourself, purchase a gift, or find some great souvenirs, you can do so here.

If you’re looking for vintage stores, you’ll have loads of options. Hamlet’s Vintage, Vintage Thrift West, and Screaming Mimi’s are three excellent stores to check out for unique old-school clothing, accessories, and more.

Additionally, you’ll find loads of high-quality specialty shops in the neighborhood, like Goorin Bros for hats and Greenwich Letterpress for stationery.

There is also Kikkerland for goods and gifts made by independent designers. They sell everything from clocks to stationary to spa products, and more.

In need of a new board game? The Uncommons is a board game shop where you can also have a coffee or a beer and play Cards Against Humanity, Settlers of Catan, or even a lesser-known option.

Get Lost In A West Village Bookstore

One of the best things to do in West Village is to visit a bookstore.

For such a small neighborhood, the West Village is full of great independent bookstores that you can get lost in for hours.

Three Lives & Company is a neighborhood institution that has been around since 1991, while Left Bank Books is a petite store with a selection of new, vintage, and rare books.

There is also Casa Next Door, a coffree shop and bookstore started by Casa Magazines known for its cultural works, travel guides, and artsy coffee table books.

If you’re looking for a new book or a unique gift, these independent West Village bookstores are the perfect place to shop.

A close-up, eye-level shot of a tall stack of ten vintage-style hardcover books resting on a light-colored wooden table. The book spines feature a variety of colors—including deep red, forest green, navy blue, and charcoal grey—decorated with intricate gold-leaf patterns and geometric designs. The background is a soft-focus, brightly lit interior of a bookstore or library, with blurred shelves and warm overhead lighting creating a clean and inviting atmosphere. — Perusing unique local West Village book stores is a fun way to spend some time. Photo: NewAfrica via Depositphotos.

Where To Eat In The West Village

Visit Italy Without Leaving The West Village

Sadly, it would be hard to call Little Italy a hub for Italian culture today.

Instead, I recommend heading to the West Village (or Arthur Avenue in the Bronx) and having a seat outdoors at Numero 28 Pizzeria.

Their brick oven Neapolitan pizza has a delicious smokey flavor, and you’ll have a beautiful view of the grand Italianate-style Our Lady of Pompeii Church, built to help the flood of Italian immigrants coming to the neighborhood. It’s definitely one of the top things to see in the West Village.

Adjacent is the fountain-adorned Father Demo Square, named after Father Antonio Demo (1870-1936) who was the pastor of the church.

A dramatic, low-angle shot of the historic Our Lady of Pompeii Church in the West Village, NYC. The light-colored stone facade features grand classical columns, arched windows, and a pediment inscribed with "AVE MARIA." A tall, tiered bell tower with a domed top and a cross rises into a moody, overcast sky. To the left, a portion of an adjacent brick residential building is visible. — Staring up at Our Lady of Pompeii Church from Numero 28 Pizzeria. Photo via Jessie Festa.

Also on the corner of Bleeker and Carmine Streets you’ll find Venchi Chocolate, an Italian gourmet chocolate company originally founded in Turin (Italy) in 1878.

Stop in for their delicious gelato or some Nougatine — small candies crafted from hazelnuts that are crushed, caramelized, and then coated in dark chocolate.

Savor Budget Binges & Free Samples On Bleeker Street

If you’re looking for non-touristy things to do in NYC that are also tasty and budget-friendly, this one is for you.

Continuing on with the Italian theme, you also need — yes, I said need — to try the arancini at Faicco’s Italian Specialties on Bleeker Street.

These $1 rice balls are stuffed with risotto and fried, and the shop has been open since 1900, right after the original owner immigrated from Sorrento in 1896.

Bleeker Street is a hub of deliciousness, especially south of Christopher Street. Some experiences not to miss on this street, all of which are within steps of each other:

Pasticceria Rocco. Open since 1974, this is a sweet tooth’s dream. Its many tables and cozy corners also make sitting here with a treat an enjoyable solo activity.

Along with pistachio-laced cannoli stuffed fresh, moist black-and-white cookies, the thickest chocolate chunk cookies you’ve ever seen, baked custard, and authentic Italian-style cheesecake, they have the craziest latte menu I’ve ever seen.

My pick: the sweet vanilla cupcake latte made with real cupcake.

Other options include cheesecake, frosted shortbread, banana foster, creme brulee, strawberry banana, and caramel biscuit, to name a few. Plan for a sugar crash.

A high-angle, close-up shot of a frothy cappuccino in a dark ceramic cup in the foreground. In the soft-focus background, a crispy cannoli filled with cream and topped with crushed green pistachios is served on a small white plate. A second plate with a chocolate-covered pastry is partially visible in the upper left corner, all set against a dark, speckled cafe table. — A unique perspective while sipping my white cupcake latte. Photo via Jessie Festa.

Murray’s Cheese. No need to look up the address. Your nose will guide you to this delightfully stinky shop.

Along with free samples of cheese at the counter, you may just snag a bonus tasting. For instance, last time I visited I was greeted by the most knowledgeable Spanish woman offering samples of her acorn-fed Jamón ibérico and natural grain-fed Jamón ibérico chorizo.

She was very generous with the samples, and allowed me to taste different parts of the leg — which was $1,500 on its own — to better understand the meat.

This place is a must for high quality meat and cheese, or to grab a fresh salad or deli sandwich.

O&Co. Enjoy free samples galore of olive oils and balsamics in various flavors and ages.

Staff are more than happy to explain the different kinds of products and how they are made. They even have an interesting “educational” chandelier made of clear bottles full of oils.

While some of the bottles turned clear — meaning it’s their real olive oil gone rancid (olive oil goes bad from sun damage in clear bottles) — others from the grocery store did not, showing many times you’re really buying canola oil.

A medium shot of a staff member at Murray's Cheese in the West Village, NYC, carving a large leg of cured ham on a professional stand. The worker, wearing a black uniform with "FERMIN" on the apron, stands behind a tasting station. In the background, the busy, brightly lit shop features shelves of wine, baskets overflowing with cheese wedges, and large wooden signage with words like "Ripe & Gooey" and "Bold." Customers are visible browsing the shop under warm indoor lighting. — Free tastings of Jamon Iberico from Murray’s Cheese. Photo via Jessie Festa.

Royce Chocolate. Update: While Royce Chocolate is still in business, their Bleeker Street location is closed. Consider visiting them at 32 W. 40th Street outside of Bryant Park and not far from Times Square.

Despite my Rocco’s sugar coma, I was more than happy to savor the free samples of chocolate caramel-laced potato chips and Nama (cream) chocolates.

These chocolates are stored in refrigerators to keep them fresh and, if you purchase them, you’re given an ice-filled bag. All the chocolates are dainty and beautiful — not surprising as the company is Japanese (and their matcha chocolates are amazing).

When the counter woman asked if I wanted a free sample, she first asked if I wanted milk chocolate or dark. Next came my favorite question: “Booze or no booze?”

Umm, duh.

The cognac-filled dark chocolate was dense, cold, and creamy and finished like a homemade chocolate pudding.

A high-angle, close-up shot of green tea matcha chocolates from Royce' Chocolate. A small black plate holds eight rectangular, green-dusted chocolate squares, with a light-colored wooden pick resting on one. In the background, a traditional wooden matcha whisk (chasen) and a dark, lacquered ceramic tea caddy with a decorative gold floral lid sit on a clean white surface. — Gorgeous setup at Royce Chocolates. Photo via Jessie Festa.

Party During The Day At Boozy Brunch

If you’re looking for the best bottomless brunch in NYC, the West Village has some great options.

Madam Ji’s serves up Indian fusion dishes (try the mac and cheese samosas!) alongside unlimited mimosas, while Carroll Place is an Italian gastropub pairing pancetta and pecorino omelettes with bottomless brunch drinks.

My personal favorite is Bobo, which features tasty French fare and unlimited brunch drinks, including a Dubonnet Spritz Mimosa that goes beyond the standard brunch beverage fare.

A mouth-watering close-up of a brunch burger on a toasted brioche bun. The burger features a thick, juicy beef patty melted with cheddar cheese and topped with a perfectly cooked sunny-side-up egg with a bright yellow yolk. A crisp green lettuce leaf and a fresh red tomato slice are tucked under the top bun. The burger is served on a white plate, with a side of golden-brown roasted potatoes partially visible in the blurred background. — Don’t miss out on the West Village’s delicious brunch spots. Photo via Jessie Festa.

Enjoy Quirky Desserts In The West Village

If you’re looking to satisfy your sweet tooth, the West Village has plenty of top picks.

My personal favorite is Molly’s Cupcakes, where you can have a make-your-own cupcake experience or choose from one of her homemade center-filled specialties — like the “Cookie Monster” made with vanilla chocolate chip cake and a raw cookie dough center, topped with buttercream and mini chocolate chip cookie.

Head over to the sprinkle station to dress up your treat, then park yourself on the counter-side swings while playing one of the board games lining the shop walls.

Craving ice cream? Van Leeuwen is my favorite ice cream shop in the entire city. They scoop both dairy and vegan ice cream, with all flavors crafted using natural, qualty ingredients.

Personally, I love their vegan Sicilian Pistachio — made with special pistachios only found on Mount Etna in Italy!

West Village Nightlife: Explore Jazz From Past To Present

Greenwich Village and West Village certainly aren’t limited to just jazz nightlife; however, it’s a hub for it in NYC (as is Harlem).

One spot I love is Cellar Dog (formerly the Fat Cat) — a laid-back bar that’s uniquely New York with live jazz as well as tables with cards and board games, plus fun offerings like pool, ping pong, and shuffleboard.

It’s a fun spot to pair cheap drinks with activities that go beyond just sitting there talking. Other popular jazz clubs in the West Village include Blue Note, Smalls Jazz Club, and Mezzrow (which is a companion bar of Smalls).

Now, Greenwich Village has a rich music history. To explore that side of the neighborhood I recommend the Village Vanguard.

The venue opened in 1935, showcasing folk music and beat poetry, and today you can hear live jazz from a stage once graced by Miles Davis, Thelonious Monk, Anita O’Day, Charlie Mingus, and Bill Evans, to name a few.

There are several great jazz clubs in the West Village. Photo: wangsong via Depositphotos.

Have A Night Out On MacDougal Street

Looking for things to do in the West Village at night or want to enjoy NYC after midnight?

MacDougal Street is one of the best nightlife areas in the West Village and Greenwich Village. It’s home to cozy restaurants, beloved bars, and entertainment.

One of the best ways to spend a night out on MacDougal Street is to catch a show at the Comedy Cellar. This Village institution has been around since the 1980s, and is known for being one of the best comedy clubs in the country. They have shows every night, with top comedians in the line-up.

Another can’t-miss spot on MacDougal Street is Cafe Wha?, a live music venue where the likes of Jimi Hendrix and Bob Dylan used to perform.

When it comes to eating and drinking, Mermaid Oyster Bar is popular for its $2 happy hour oysters, while La Lanterna di Vittorio is a cozy and intimate Italian restaurant.

On nearby Bedford Street, you’ll also find one of my favorite NYC restaurants for cheap eats, Aria Wine Bar, where delicious bowls of pasta are all $19!

Dining at these tasty eateries should be at the top of your West Village things to do list!

bowl of salmon pasta from Aria Wine Bar in the West Village of New York City — This bowl of salmon pasta at Aria Wine Bar was only $19! Photo via Jessie Festa.

Greenwich Village / West Village Walking Tours

One of the best ways to explore these neighborhoods is with a knowledgeable guide.

Along with the private photography experiences I offer through my company NYC Photo Journeys, some fun highly-rated public tours include:

🎨 Artistic, Alternative Greenwich Village Walking Tour
👻 Ghost Tour of Greenwich Village
🤩 Semi-Private Greenwich Village Walking Tour
🍕 Greenwich Village Food Tour
📚 Greenwich Village Literary Pub Crawl

➡️ Click here for a full list of West Village tours!

A ground-level view of a peaceful, tree-lined street in the West Village, NYC, during autumn. Golden-yellow ginkgo leaves blanket the asphalt road and sidewalks. Mature trees with thinning yellow foliage frame the view of historic red-brick townhomes and brownstones. On the right, a black wrought-iron fence runs along the sidewalk, while a "No Parking Anytime" sign stands on the left. The soft, bright daylight creates a serene atmosphere in this iconic neighborhood. — Explore history, food, and culture on a **West Village tour with a local guide**. Photo: deberarr via Depositphotos.

West Village Real Estate

If you fall in love with the West Village to the point where you’re tempted to move there, just know real estate is not cheap.

According to RentHop, the average price of a studio rental is $4,925 per month while a 4-bedroom rental averages $41,000 per month.

That being said, you’ll be in a truly beautiful neighborhood lively with culture.

If you do decide to check out some places to live in the West Village, a few noteworthy buildings include the Archive, the Printing House, and Candela Tower.

Moreover, you can check listing sites like Zillow and StreetEasy to find rental and purchase opportunities in the West Village.

A medium shot of a smiling woman with long brown hair sitting at a white cafe table inside Pasticceria Rocco in the West Village, NYC. She is wearing a grey mock-neck sweater and holding a white ceramic cup of coffee with both hands. She is looking off-camera to her right. Behind her is a rustic, white-painted brick wall adorned with a framed photograph of a vintage storefront. A green potted plant is partially visible to the left. — Sipping coffee at Pasticceria Rocco in the West Village. Photo via Jessie Festa.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting West Village

Now that we’ve gone over some fun things to do in the West Village, I’ll answer some frequently asked questions.

Q) Is the West Village worth visiting?

Yes, the West Village has a fantastic atmosphere with gorgeous parks and architecture, as well as lots of delicious restaurants, fun bars and jazz clubs, charming cafes, locally-owned shops, and more.

Q) What are the best things to do in the West Village?

Some of the best things to do in the Village NYC are seeing famous NYC houses like Carrie Bradshaw’s apartment in Sex and the City and the skinny 75 ½ Bedford Street, catching a film at the IFC Center, sipping coffee at a charming outdoor cafe, or simply enjoying the European feel of the neighborhood.

Q) What are the most famous streets in the West Village?

Grove Street, Bleeker Street, and Christopher Street are some of the most famous and picturesque streets in West Village.

What fun things to do in the West Village NYC would you add to this list?

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Posted in New York, North America, Travel Guides

About Jessie Festa

Jessie Festa is a New York-based travel content creator who is passionate about empowering her audience to experience new places and live a life of adventure. She is the founder of the solo female travel blog, Jessie on a Journey, and is editor-in-chief of Epicure & Culture, an online conscious tourism magazine. Along with writing, Jessie is a professional photographer and is the owner of NYC Photo Journeys, which offers New York photo tours, photo shoots, and wedding photography. Her work has appeared in publications like USA Today, CNN, Business Insider, Thrillist, and WestJet Magazine.

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