Discover Greenwich Village: Hidden Gems & Trending Spots
Secret NYC
Located in Brooklyn, The Prospect Park Zoo and its 12-acre facility features more than 125 species of animals and family-friendly exhibits that are perfect for kids of all ages. Check out fun exhibits like the Sea Lion Court, where you can observe these majestic mammals in their true element or the The Hall of Animals, which showcases some of the smallest, yet most exciting animals in the zoo, such as the poison dart frog or fennec fox. Or maybe even end your trip with The Discovery Trail, a walkthrough of everything from red pandas to dingos. While you’re in the area, be sure to check out other attractions too like the Brooklyn Botanical Garden and the Brooklyn Museum!
Time Out New York
Find Little Paris on Centre Street, between Broome and Grand Street. Even the stars of Emily in Paris have hung out in this neighborhood, and if it's Chef Gabriel-endorsed, you know it's legit. Interestingly, the lack of a specified space for Francophiles in Manhattan wasn't always the case. In the late 19th Century, Soho had its own French Quarter, as chronicled in an 1879 issue of Scribner's Monthly: "The people are nearly all French. French too is the language of the signs over the doors and in the windows." Ready to dive into the Paris-within-Manhattan? Here are a few French businesses in Little Paris to check out whether you're celebrating the Paris Olympics or just saying "oui" to a French experience without crossing the pond.
New York City Dreamland
Prima Brooklyn Wine Bar: coffee and wine in Clinton Hill And the people who make Prima! Our weird and wonderful little café wine bar first date solo date group date chess knit natural dye poetry reading chef pop up Caribbean lively leaky wholesome wild whirlwind of a place.
THE ROOFTOP GUIDE
Elsie Rooftop really brings a slice of fashionable 1920s cocktail bar to the heart of Midtown Manhattan. Set on the 25th floor of an office building near Bryant Park, the rooftop comes with an upscale and glamorous indoor lounge, surrounded by a wraparound terrace overlooking the Manhattan skyscrapers. The rooftop bar serves progressive mixology cocktails, along with wines, champagne and an upscale seasonally focused light fare menu.
newyorkcity.explore
Discover the vibrant umbrella installation at Hillel Place Plaza! 🌂🌈✨ 💡 Located in the heart of Brooklyn, the colorful umbrellas at Hillel Place Plaza create a stunning and whimsical canopy that transforms the space into a lively and artistic oasis. This installation not only adds a splash of color to the urban landscape but also provides a unique backdrop for photos and a joyful atmosphere for visitors. Whether you're strolling through the plaza, relaxing under the umbrellas, or enjoying the surrounding shops and cafes, this installation brings a sense of fun and creativity to the neighborhood.
Secret NYC
Explore an incredible 15,000-square-foot museum filled with Banksy-inspired art! Calling all Banksy-heads and street art lovers: embrace the legacy of one of history’s greatest street at NYC’s Banksy Museum filled with the largest collection of work inspired by his creations! Uncover his unique pieces of work and get a deeper look into the mysterious artist. The production available at the museum is unauthorised and unaffiliated with the artist.
Mingomatic
🏮 Explore the Vibrant Chinatown in Manhattan! 🏮 Step into a world of rich culture, history, and amazing flavors in Chinatown, Manhattan. From bustling markets and colorful storefronts to delicious dim sum and traditional tea houses, there's something magical around every corner. 🏙️✨ Stroll through the vibrant streets, visit unique shops, and immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of this iconic neighborhood. Don’t forget to check out landmarks like the Mahayana Buddhist Temple and Columbus Park! 🕍🌳
See also
Dining in Willowbrook: Explore Local Dining Experiences & Foodie Favorites Near NYC
Discover Hidden Gems in Greenwich Village
Greenwich Village, affectionately known as "The Village," is one of New York City's most vibrant and enigmatic neighborhoods. It's an oasis for those looking to explore local culture beyond the mainstream tourist attractions. Bursting with art, history, and character, this area is a must-visit if you’re keen on uncovering some hidden gems.
The West Village Charm
Venturing into the heart of Greenwich Village, you'll find yourself in the West Village—one of the most picturesque sections of the neighborhood. Cobblestone streets, ivy-covered townhouses, and a slower pace make it a stark contrast to the hustle and bustle of NYC. Be sure to wander down streets like Bedford and Grove, where you'll uncover quaint cafes and boutiques that scream local charm. Don't miss the chance to visit Magnolia Bakery for one of their iconic cupcakes, an indulgence that's beloved by locals and tourists alike.
Hidden Cultural Eurubia: Local Theaters
Greenwich Village isn't just about picturesque streets and trendy spots. For those keen on cultural exploration, the area boasts an array of independent theaters. The Cherry Lane Theatre is the oldest continuously operating Off-Broadway theater in New York City and regularly showcases boundary-pushing performances. Similarly, the Lucille Lortel Theatre is another hidden gem offering a platform for innovative works by both established and emerging playwrights.
Local Culinary Delights
No exploration of Greenwich Village is complete without diving into its amazing food scene. From hidden gems to trending spots, foodies will find themselves spoiled for choice. Corner Bistro is a renowned establishment where you can savor one of NYC’s best burgers in a classic tavern setting. If you're craving something a bit more unique, head to The Spotted Pig, a gastropub known for its inventive menu and A-list celebrity visitors.
The Secret Gardens
While parks like Washington Square Park and West 4th Street Park are popular spots, there are smaller, lesser-known green spaces in Greenwich Village perfect for a peaceful retreat. Jefferson Market Garden is one such hidden sanctuary. Nestled next to the historic Jefferson Market Library, this charming community garden is a horticultural gem featuring a variety of plants, flowers, and quiet benches—a perfect spot to relax and soak in the village charm.
Engage with the Local Arts Scene
The art scene in Greenwich Village is dynamic and diverse. Head to Minetta Lane for some real local exploration and discover Minetta Lane Theatre. Often hosting experimental and offbeat productions, it’s a local favorite for avant-garde performances. The area is also dotted with several galleries showcasing everything from modern art to vintage photography. The Westbeth Artists Community on Bethune Street is another hidden gem housing several artists' studios and performance spaces. It’s an excellent place to tap into the local arts culture and perhaps even snag an art piece to bring home.
Unique Shopping Spots
Shopping in Greenwich Village offers a delightful mix of mainstream stores and quirky boutiques. For those seeking unique local finds, head over to Rough Trade Records for an extensive collection of vinyl records. Additionally, House of Oldies is a hidden gem that specializes strictly in vinyl records, making it a haven for collectors and music lovers alike.
Travel Tips for an Unforgettable Visit
Exploring Greenwich Village is a lot about knowing where to go and local travel tips can make all the difference. Skip the typical taxi ride and take a leisurely walk along Bleecker Street, where you'll find many of the village’s most iconic spots. Using Kikihub's local anonymous chats, you can get real-time advice and secrets from those who live there, helping you uncover the most authentic and lesser-known places to visit.
Greenwich Village is an area best explored at a slow pace. Don’t rush through it; whether it’s dining al fresco at a sidewalk café or catching a live jazz performance at Smalls Jazz Club, take your time to soak in the ambiance. The local charm of Greenwich Village offers an unparalleled New York City experience.
