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Things to Do

What To See & Do In Greenwich Village, New York City

Photo of Jordan Johnson
Jordan Johnson
9 February 2017

With tree-lined streets and unique architecture, Greenwich Village is home to a wealth of restaurants, cafés, cultural centers, and stores. Whether you’re visiting New York City for the first time or have been a long time resident, there are great finds for everyone dotting the streets of this lively neighborhood.

Buvette Gastrothèque | © Jordan Johnson

Buvette Gastrothèque

Bistro, Restaurant, Bar, Cafe, French, $$$
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Make your way to Buvette for a charming ambiance and a delectable brunch. They do not take reservations, but a seat in Buvette is well worth the wait. The Belgian waffle is a must-have for any sweet-breakfast aficionado, but if savory meals are more to your preference, try their scrambled eggs with prosciutto on toast. If the brunch line is too long, not to worry— Buvette offers an afternoon and evening menu as well.

A.P.C. Surplus

Store, Shop
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The Elk
The Elk | © Jordan Johnson
Diverge from the crowds of SoHo and Fifth Ave for a more quaint shopping experience in Greenwich Village. The neighborhood is known for its many boutiques, and A.P.C. Surplus is one you don’t want to miss. The French brand offers a collection of chic, minimalist clothing and accessories for men and women. If you’re looking for discounts, you’ll find some great pieces of past collections at this Surplus location. Additionally, head one block west to find options from the current collections at the A.P.C. storefront.

The Elk

Cafe, Coffee Shop, Contemporary, North American, $$$
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The Elk, a coffee shop and general convenience store, is beautifully designed and serves up not only great coffee, but breakfast and lunchtime food options as well. The Elk creates a comfortable space for all customers, with computer-free designated tables for conversations and reading. If you’re looking to get some work done on your personal computer, sit along the bar and connect to the store’s free Wi-Fi.

IFC Center

Movie Theater, Theater
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The IFC Center is a Greenwich Village staple. Screening independent films with special series and events, the IFC Center is much more than your average movie theater. On the weekends, you can check out their Weekend Classics at 11 am Friday through Sunday, or catch midnight showings of cult films at their Waverly Midnights on Friday and Saturday. Find current releases, upcoming series and events, and show times here, and be sure to take a peak at the collection of vintage movie posters on display in the Posteritati Gallery.

Popbar

Ice Cream Parlour, Bar, Ice Cream, American
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Popsicles are one of the portable food trends, and if you’re on the hunt for a sweet pit stop or a quick cool-off from the summer heat, check out Popbar. With all of the flavors lined up and ready to go, Popbar is a treat for both your eyes and your taste buds. Choose from light and tart flavors or rich and creamy as a base for your pop, and decide if you want it dipped in melted chocolate and coated in select toppings.

Whitney Museum of American Art

Museum
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After relocating from the Upper East Side to its new home at the intersection of Greenwich Village and the Meatpacking District, the Whitney Museum opened its doors to the public on May 1, 2015. Just off the lowest entrance of The High Line, the Whitney presents 20th century and contemporary American Art. The museum is closed on Tuesdays, but offers extended hours on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday evenings. Daily tours are available, no reservation required.

Magnolia Bakery

Bakery, Dessert, $$$
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Magnolia Bakery is the place for a great cupcake
Magnolia Bakery is the place for a great cupcake | © Citizen of the Planet / Alamy Stock Photo
A trip to Greenwich Village wouldn’t be complete without a visit to Magnolia Bakery. Though they’ve opened multiple stores in New York City, Greenwich Village is home to its original location. The famed bakery gained momentum with appearances in several television shows and movies such as Sex and the City, and boasts an array of confections to satisfy any sweet tooth. Try one of their famous cupcakes or go for a slice of their decadent layered cakes—you won’t be disappointed with your choice.

Café Gitane

Cafe, American
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Fat Cat
Fat Cat | © Jordan Johnson
Tucked away inside The Jane Hotel is Café Gitane. The menu is a fusion of Moroccan and French cuisines, offering flavorful and exotic dishes. Try the refreshing carrot salad with cilantro, mint, and orange blossom, or a pomegranate glazed salmon fillet. The eclectic décor and accents of color create a vibrant atmosphere to complement the menu. If you’re looking to eat outdoors, visit the rooftop at The Jane Hotel where you can order from the menu downstairs at Cafe Gitane.

Fat Cat

Music Venue
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Make your way from the charming Greenwich Village streets to this underground jazz club for some friendly competition and live music. With pool tables, ping-pong tables, shuffleboard, and more, Fat Cat provides a great space to meet up with friends for drinks and games, and to enjoy live jazz. Check out Fat Cat’s mission to learn more about the community organization and educational programs that they offer, as well.

Tea & Sympathy

Cafe, Tea Room, Restaurant, British, $$$
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Afternoon tea, desserts and sweets.
Afternoon tea, desserts and sweets | © Supreecha Samansukumal / Shutterstock
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Tea & Sympathy brings authentic British flavors and products to the heart of Greenwich Village. Serving up traditional British breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea, and dinner, this restaurant is cozy and welcoming. Additionally, you can find an array of British groceries and gifts next door. Tea & Sympathy provides the atmosphere of a tea shop across the pond, without needing to step foot on an airplane.
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