Washington Square Park
Washington Square Park is popular with locals and tourists alike
Where Harry met Sally, Washington Square Park is one of New York's most loved parks and has been a community meeting place and community center since it opened in 1826.
With an eclectic past as a cemetery, public gallows and military parade ground, Washington Square Park is well-known for its eccentricity and is emblematic of the Beat generation and hippie movement in bohemian Greenwich Village. Now, avant-garde street performers are a more common sight than the shifty types that plagued the park in the 1980s and Washington Square Park is once again one of the city's most popular spots for locals and tourists.
One of the most prominent features of Washington Square Park, Washington's Arch, was built in 1889, modelled after the Arc de Triomphe in Paris, to commemorate the centenary of President Washington's inauguration. Originally built in wood and rebuilt in marble in 1891, cars were allowed to drive through Washington's Arch until 1971 when the park was redesigned and closed to vehicular traffic.
Washington Square Park's previously unnamed fountain was recently refurbished and relocated to the center of the park and controversially renamed the "Tisch Fountain", after a wealthy family of NYU benefactors. While officially access to the fountain is denied and a fence has been erected as a deterrent, it hasn't stopped visitors from using the fountain for its original purpose as a wading pool.
Children's play areas, dog runs, shady greens and walking tracks draw thousands of people to park daily. Chess tables in the southwest, where Stanley Kubrick played in his youth and featured in Searching for Bobby Fischer, always attract a crowd. Nearby cafes on Bleeker Street and MacDougal Street are lovely options to relax after a stroll in the park.
Facts For Your Visit
Fee: noWashington Square Park Hours:
Opening hours may differ on holidays
- Monday: 6:00 AM – 12:00 AM
- Tuesday: 6:00 AM – 12:00 AM
- Wednesday: 6:00 AM – 12:00 AM
- Thursday: 6:00 AM – 12:00 AM
- Friday: 6:00 AM – 12:00 AM
- Saturday: 6:00 AM – 12:00 AM
- Sunday: 6:00 AM – 12:00 AM
Address: Washington Square, New York, NY 10012, USA
Official Website: Washington Square Park
Washington Square Park Reviews
Rated out of 5
Washington Square Park is a lively and iconic spot in NYC, full of energy and character. With its famous arch, beautiful fountain, and vibrant mix of musicians, artists, and locals, there’s always something happening. It’s a fantastic place to people-watch, relax, or just soak up the creative vibe of the city. A must-visit for anyone looking to experience the true spirit of Greenwich Village!
Arosha Weerakkody - a month ago
It's a great congregating spot. Always full of people, performers, and sound! Never a dull moment. Sure to see something interesting here. Also, seems pretty full of tourists and college students since it's right next to NYU.
One video is from a Pride gathering. Def wouldn't go back again since it was ~packed~ with people and that isn't necessarily my vibe anymore, but it was cool to go and see what was going on!!
Kazz Chang - 2 weeks ago
Washington Square Park is a lovely spot, situated right next to NYU, making it a perfect place for students and locals to relax. The park is always lively, with people sitting around, enjoying the scenery. The central fountain is a standout feature and adds to the calm atmosphere. It’s a nice, small park ideal for chilling out, reading, or just people-watching. With its prime location and welcoming vibe, it’s a great place to take a break from the hustle of the city.
Sunny Ghosh - 2 months ago
Washington Square is a laid-back spot filled with friendly squirrels, people walking their dogs, and artists selling their paintings, which adds a creative vibe. However, the fountain in the center is extremely dirty, which is a bit disappointing. Adding to the concern, there are quite a few people openly selling “smoke” in the area, which somewhat disrupts the overall atmosphere.
WM Li - a week ago
Iconic park! Must visit in NYC so much happening all at once it’s wonderful. Was worried it might be a bit too much for my cat but she had a great time and we just stayed away from big crowds which is actually possible here. Even with the fountain on full blast, people playing music on speakers and a large protest happening it was easy to converse without interruptions in relative peace. Perfect place to have any kind of park experience you want. Essential New York visit!
Sophie Graham - a month ago
Directions
| Subway Line | Nearest Station | Walking Time |
|---|---|---|
| A, B, C, D, E, F or M | West 4th Street | 3 minutes |
| N or R | 8th Street / New York University | 5 minutes |
How to get to Washington Square Park by Subway
Take the A, B, C, D, E, F or M train to West 4th Street, head northeast on 6th Avenue (Avenue of the Americas), turn left on Washington Place or take the N or R train to 8th Street / New York University, head southwest on Broadway, turn right onto Washington Place.
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Accommodations near Washington Square Park:
Photo Gallery
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Washington Square Fountain at night cc licensed photo by eschipul -
Photo Credit: Olivier Bruchez - cc license via Flickr -
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Photo Credit: Rob Young - cc license via Flickr
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