Why You Should Visit Greenwich Village, New York City

So yes, dear wide-eyed out-of-towner, you've finally made it to the Big Apple. Your jam-packed itinerary included taking in Phantom of the Opera, scaling the heights of the Empire State Building, strolling through Central Park, gazing at Lady Liberty's majestic figure, and if you're lucky enough, snaring a table at Nobu. However, after days of trudging through the concrete jungle of Manhattan with all those huge corporate buildings looking down upon yourself, a refreshing change would be a subway ride down to one of New York City's most interesting and historic neighborhoods, Greenwich Village. Greenwich Village possesses a reputation as a hangout of writers, artists, and other non-establishment types. 

The best place to hang out and people-watch is definitely Washington Square Park. This eight-acre park's main focal point is the landmark Washington Arch, whose design was modeled after the famous Arc de Triomphe in Paris, France. Flood-lit at night time, it is one of the most dramatic sights in the area. At any given time, a variety of musicians, jugglers, tourists, and street performers provide visual entertainment and add to the vibrant atmosphere, in addition to the dog owners taking their pets for a run and the bocci competitors showing off their skill playing that anachronistic game. Surrounding Washington Square Park, most of the buildings belong to New York University, including centers of learning, performing arts venues, and students' residence halls. Thus it is common to see many of today's youth poring over their books, playing musical instruments or socializing on the park benches as well. Be wary though of the sellers of marijuana who ply their trade at night.