Explore the West Village: A Scenic Walking Tour in NYC

With its quaint shops, 19th-century houses, and tree-lined blocks, the West Village is one of the most desirable neighborhoods in Manhattan. Take a relaxing stroll through the winding streets and uncover the area’s classic old-world charm.

Jefferson Market Library

The West 4th Street subway stop is a great place to commence your West Village tour. Exit on the north side of the subway station near Waverly Place and walk north up 6th Avenue. You will see the Jefferson Market Library ahead; this building is a modern West Village landmark.

One of the few High Victorian Gothic-style buildings left in Manhattan, Jefferson Market served multiple purposes including a courthouse, branch library, and women’s detention center in the early 1900s. The legendary Mae West spent time behind bars here after being arrested for lewd behavior onstage during one of her infamous shows.

Christopher Street

Turn left onto Greenwich Avenue and then quickly left again onto Christopher Street, the core of New York City’s gay rights movements during the 1960s and 1970s. While many of Manhattan’s gay hot spots have migrated north to Chelsea and Hell’s Kitchen, Christopher Street remains home to numerous gay bars and lounges.

Magnolia Bakery

Continue on Bleecker past Charles and Perry streets. On the corner of Bleecker and West 11th Street, you’ll discover Magnolia Bakery, renowned for its buttery vanilla cupcakes and classic layer cakes. With limited seating inside, it is advisable to cross the street and enjoy your dessert in Bleecker Street Park.

White Horse Tavern

Turn left off of Bleecker Street onto West 11th, and grab a bite at the White Horse Tavern. This historic pub has served many of the finest literary and scholarly minds of the 19th century. Offering lunch and dinner, the Tavern transforms into a lively late-night destination, perfect for enjoying juicy burgers and crispy appetizers with some refreshing drinks.

Hudson River Park

From the White Horse Tavern, proceed walking west on West 11th Street all the way to Hudson River Park. This area boasts a long stretch of grass, trees, benches, and bike paths right next to the Hudson River. Take a stroll along the piers for fresh air or relax on the grass with the sunbathers.

Archive Apartment Building

Alternatively, instead of heading toward Hudson River Park, make a left onto Greenwich Street. A few blocks down, you’ll pass The Archive, a luxury apartment building that was once a warehouse for the U.S. Customs Office. Featuring rooftop access and spacious units offering breathtaking views of the Hudson River and West Village, it has become one of the most sought-after residences in the area.

Narrowest House in New York City

Stroll down Greenwich Street and make a left onto Barrow Street. Continue on Barrow across Hudson Street, where you’ll find some of the oldest houses in Manhattan. Make a right onto Bedford Street and stop at #75½, a red-brick house built in 1873 and once owned by poet and playwright Edna St. Vincent Millay. At just 9.5 feet wide, it holds the title of the narrowest house in New York City.

Bleecker Street

Keep walking on Bedford Street and turn left onto Morton Street. After crossing 7th Avenue South, walk a few more blocks and turn right onto Bleecker Street. Browse the shops in this vibrant section of Bleecker and discover affordable clothing, unique costume jewelry, and delightful eateries.

Washington Square Park

Proceed on Bleecker Street across 6th Avenue. If you’re able to resist leaving the West Village just yet, consider continuing your exploration or heading towards ​Washington Square Park, located several blocks north of Bleecker Street. Wander through NYU’s adjacent campus, admire the Washington Square Arch, or simply relax by the park’s fountain and watch the world go by.