Washington Square Park

The park and its famous triumphal arch celebrating the country's first president (in the middle of the park's north side) are in the heart of the Village. Though in the middle of an affluent neighborhood, the park attracts a hodgepodge of people. During the warmer months of the school term, the park is a favorite hangout for students from nearby NYU. Part of the charm of the park is the view of the buildings across the street. All these buildings are now owned by NYU, and though there was some controversial construction in the early 2010s, most of the stately 19th-century dwellings pictured in the classic movie The Heiress (based on Henry James' novel, Washington Square) are still there for you to enjoy looking at. Also notable is the fountain, which is a focus of activity, especially in hotter months.

• outdoors

Getting there

between Washington Square North, Washington Square South, Washington Square East, and Washington Square West

Website

washingtonsquareparkconservancy.org (opens in a new tab)