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: New York, NY 10012, USA
Official Website: Washington Square Park
Washington Square Park Reviews
Rated out of 5
This is a public park in the heart of Greenwich Village, Manhattan and it is a magical must go experience while visiting or living in the Big Apple. It’s featured in something like 80 movies and super iconic. Right by NYU, there are folks playing chess, playing and lounging around and in the empty fountain, and so much more. We literally sat and watched the locals watering their plants and sitting on the steps of their brownstones. It’s such an authentic NY place, highly recommend! The monument is massive and there is a playground as well. Lots of shady spots and benches in a great neighborhood with lots of places to eat or grab some excellent coffee. The subway can get you there for $3 and the park is free to enjoy!!
Katy Lamers - 2 months ago
Washington Square Park has a really nice atmosphere. There were a lot of children, especially in the afternoon, which made the park feel lively and full of energy. It is a pleasant place with many benches where you can sit and relax. The atmosphere was great, and there were places nearby where you could buy ice cream and spend some time enjoying the area. The park was also clean, which made the experience even better. Overall, it was a lovely place to visit. 🌳🍦
Andriana Remska - 2 months ago
Winter wonderland at the Park! ✨🍃❄️
• Lovely winter visit with barely any crowds. It was such a peaceful contrast to its usual lively vibe.
• The crisp air, bare trees, and soft winter light made everything feel calm and cinematic. The iconic arch looked even more beautiful against the clear, cold sky.
• Perfect spot for a quiet stroll, people-watching (from afar!), or just sitting on a bench and enjoying the stillness.
• Winter here feels slower, softer, and surprisingly magical.
BA - 5 months ago
I grew up out here, what more can I say. Huge with lots of foot traffic. Always lively, always a vibe. Street performers, street food, and vendors in the warmer months. Good for walking/playing with your dog. Great for chilling and taking in the sites. Plenty of restaurants nearby to enjoy. NYU territory.
Shani Stanley - 3 months 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.
Map & Instant Route Finder
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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 -
Photo Credit: Olivier Bruchez - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Phil Roeder - cc license via Flickr -
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Photo Credit: ajay_suresh - cc license via Flickr -
Photo Credit: Lars Plougmann - cc license via Flickr
