The West Village is one of New York City’s most iconic neighborhoods. With a perfect blend of historic charm, contemporary culture, and a laid-back atmosphere, this is a neighborhood that attracts both locals and tourists. With its cobblestone streets, boutique shops, trendy restaurants, and vibrant nightlife, there’s always something to explore. If you’re planning to visit, here’s our comprehensive guide to things to do in West Village NYC.
Where is the West Village in NYC?
The West Village is located on the lower west side of Manhattan and makes up the western part of Greenwich Village. Its northern border is 14th Street, southern border is Houston Street, eastern border is Sixth Avenue, western border is the Houston River. West Village, which was once part of the former New Amsterdam, has retained much of its old-world charm. Just stroll down any street in West Village and you’ll find plenty of low-rise buildings, cobblestone streets, and historic brownstones. The neighborhood is quieter and more residential, yet still has its fair share of restaurants, boutiques, and fun things to explore.
Why the West Village is Famous
The West Village is known for its rich cultural history, artistic vibe, and vibrant LGBTQ+ scene. Over the years, the neighborhood has been a gathering place for writers, artists, musicians, and creatives such as James Baldwin, Edgar Allan Poe, and Bob Dylan. Many of these creatives contributed to the area’s reputation as a center of counterculture in the 20th century. Additionally, the West Village was the site of the Stonewall Riots in 1969, which played a pivotal role in the LGBTQ+ rights movement. Today, the Stonewall National Monument, located in Christopher Park, memorializes this event.
The neighborhood is also home to a number of iconic landmarks such as the Whitney Museum of American Art. The iconic West Village is also featured in a number of movies and shows, such as the Carrie Bradshaw apartment located at 64 Perry Street and the Friends apartment at 90 Bedford Street.
How to Get to West Village
Getting to the West Village is easy, as it’s well-connected to public transportation. You can take the 1, 2, and 3 subway trains to the Christopher Street-Sheridan Square station, which is right in the heart of the West Village. Or you can take the A, C, E, or B subway trains to West 4th Street and walk a few blocks. Alternatively, you can take a few different buses, such as the M2, which runs through the West Village and stops at various stops in the neighborhood. Finally, if you have some extra time, try walking on foot or biking through the village! We recommend checking out Bleecker, Bedford, and Christopher Street. Their serene and tree-lined streets make for an excellent little adventure.
Things to Do in West Village NYC
There are plenty of things to check out in the West Village.
- Boutiques and art galleries: There are plenty of small boutiques and art galleries to check out while you’re in the West Village. One of the writer’s favorites is BonBon – A Swedish Candy Co. They sell unique Swedish candies that make for a great treat for yourself or a loved one. As for art galleries, be sure to check out White Columns. They are one of NYC’s oldest alternative non-profit art spaces that support up-and-coming artists.
- Visit the Whitney Museum of American Art: Spend a few hours immersed in the 20th- and 21st-century American art. In our experience, the best way to enjoy the museum is to head up all the way to the eighth floor and work your way down. Be sure to check out the terraces on the 8th, 7th, 6th, and 5th floor to get a breath of fresh air between art exhibits. If you’re feeling peckish, stop by the Studio Bar on the 8th floor to get a light snack and drink. For something heartier, check out the Frenchette Bakery or Cafe located on the 1st floor.
- Check out historic landmarks: Be sure to stop by the Stonewall National Monument to learn about its role in LGBTQ+ history. Once you’ve learned about its significance, swing by the Stonewall Inn right next door to grab a drink!
- Shopping on Bleeker Street: Bleeker Street is home to some of the cutest little boutiques in NYC. Shops such as Colorful Natalie, which is filled with tons of bright and colorful pink clothes. Or places like Wooftown, a super cute pet shop for your little furry loved ones.
Hotels in West Village
If you’re planning to stay in the West Village, there are two great options that capture the neighborhood’s charm and elegance:
- The Jane Hotel: Located near the Hudson River, The Jane is a more affordable yet charming option. The hotel offers small rooms with a vintage, nautical aesthetic and a cozy rooftop bar with a view.
- Incentra Village Guest House: For a more unique living situation, check out Incentra. Their guest rooms will make you feel like you’re living in your own West Village apartment. The rooms are furnished with a beautiful mix of antique decor and modern amenities.
Best Cafes & Brunch Spots in West Village
The West Village is filled with cozy cafes and brunch spots that make it the perfect place to spend a leisurely morning or afternoon.
- Buvette: A Parisian-style cafe that serves up French-inspired dishes. From perfectly fluffy eggs to mouth-watering French toast, it’s the perfect spot to indulge. Buvette is a favorite for brunch with locals so be sure to get there early so you get a spot!
- Café Cluny: For larger portion sizes, try out Cafe Cluny. This bistro offers Franco-American cuisine. It’s popular for its stylish ambiance and delicious brunch items like the poached eggs and avocado toast. Looking for a caffeine boost? Many folks have sing high praises for this bistro’s coffee! For those that want to have a boozy brunch, try the restaurant’s cocktails instead!
- 787 Coffee: Speaking of coffee, for coffee enthusiasts, try out 787 coffee. Their coffee beans are grown in their own coffee farm in Puerto Rico. They were one of US Chamber’s top 100 Top Honoree in Growth Accelerators category in 2024.
Best Restaurants West Village
The West Village is home to some of New York City’s best dining spots, from casual bites to fine dining experiences. Here are some of our favorite West Village restaurants.
- L’Artusi: Known for its modern Italian cuisine, L’Artusi offers a refined yet relaxed dining experience. They are known for their pasta dishes (which alternate). However, some other fun and unique dishes include their wagyu carpaccio and olive oil cake. To top it off, the restaurant also offers some excellent cocktails.
- Boucherie West Village: If you’ve walked around the West Village, chances are, you’ve heard the large number of patrons happily enjoying their meal at Boucherie. The restaurant’s ground floor is open to the outdoors and is perfect for people watching. The restaurant specializes in French cuisine and is well known for their steak.
- Ama Raw Bar West Village: This is the author’s own secret gem. This restaurant offers some amazing happy hour deals such as $1.25 cent oysters. If you’re looking to have more than just a bite, then try their wild mushroom fried rice and chili oil charred octopus.
Best Bars in West Village
The West Village has a thriving nightlife scene, with a mix of cozy cocktail bars, historic watering holes, and chic lounges.
- Katana Kitten: This eclectic bi-level bar features Japanese inspire cocktails with ingredients such as shiso, hinoki, and umeboshi. They serve small bites like sandos, skewers, and fries with nori (seaweed), and more.
- Employees Only: This speakeasy-style bar is known for its impeccable cocktails and stylish, intimate ambiance. It’s a perfect spot for a night out with friends or a romantic evening.
- The White Horse Tavern: Yes, there are two White Horse Taverns in NYC. The one in Financial District is a newer addition while the West Village one has been around since the 1880s. The West Village location has been a gathering place for writers, artists, and intellectuals for generations. Stop by for a drink and feel your creative juices flowing in prose!
Sweet Treats in West Village
The West Village is home to some iconic dessert spots, perfect for satisfying your sweet tooth after a meal or while you’re out exploring.
- Magnolia Bakery: Known for its world-famous banana pudding, Magnolia Bakery is an essential stop for dessert lovers. The bakery also serves an array of cakes, cupcakes, and pies that are just as delicious.
- Milk Bar: Milk Bar is known for its fun, inventive treats like the Crack Pie and cereal milk soft serve. This playful dessert destination is a hit for both locals and tourists alike.
Whether you’re interested in history, dining, or just taking in the unique atmosphere of the neighborhood, the West Village offers something for everyone. Its charming streets, world-class restaurants, and vibrant cultural scene make it one of the most inviting yet expensive neighborhoods in New York City. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to experience all that the West Village has to offer—there’s no better place to discover the soul of Manhattan.
