Greenwich Village Historic Walking Tour

This two-hour walking tour of Greenwich Village begins in the heart of the neighborhood—Washington Square Park. The tour offers an in-depth look at the area’s rich and layered past.

At Washington Square Park, you'll uncover stories dating back to the 1600s, including its early use as a potter’s field, its transformation into a parade ground, and its evolution into a center of activism, art, and rebellion. With historical photos provided at each stop, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of how this iconic park became the symbolic gateway to Greenwich Village.

This itinerary highlights just a few of the many fascinating stops you’ll encounter along the way.

Visit the former home of iconic American artist Edward Hopper. Learn how the neighborhood’s unique character influenced Hopper’s stark, contemplative style—and how his time here shaped some of the most enduring images of 20th-century art.

Step inside the dramatic past of the Jefferson Market Courthouse, once home to a working jail from the 1870s. Discover how this stunning Victorian Gothic building—once voted one of the most beautiful in America—served as a women’s court, held notorious criminals, and played a surprising role in New York’s fight for justice and women’s rights.

Learn about the inspiring history of one of America's most impactful and compassionate poets and her remarkable ties to the Statue of Liberty.

Travel back to the pivotal summer of 1969 and uncover the powerful events that led to the Stonewall Uprising. Standing outside the now-iconic Stonewall Inn, you'll explore the tensions, raids, and acts of resistance that ignited a turning point in the fight for LGBTQ+ rights. Hear the stories of the brave individuals who stood up to oppression and helped launch a global movement for equality and visibility.

Discover the rich legacy of the Cherry Lane Theatre, the oldest continuously operating off-Broadway theater in New York City. Nestled in a quiet corner of Greenwich Village, this intimate venue has launched the careers of legendary actors, playwrights, and musicians. You'll hear captivating stories of early performances by now-iconic stars and learn how this historic space became a creative haven for bold, groundbreaking work.

Relive the landmark court case that ignited a social justice movement at this medical center from 1827.

Step into Marie’s Crisis Café, a beloved Greenwich Village piano bar with a revolutionary past. Long before it became a gathering place for show tune lovers, this site was the final home of Thomas Paine, author of Common Sense and a founding voice of American democracy. You'll learn how this unassuming bar became a surprising link between the birth of a nation and the vibrant cultural life of the Village.

Stand at the doorstep of the first racially integrated night club in New York as you listen to stories about the trailblazers who performed at this national historic landmark.

The tour concludes at the site of the Triangle Shirtwaist Factory fire, now a designated National Historic Landmark. Here, you’ll reflect on the tragedy that claimed 146 lives in 1911—and learn how the bravery and activism of the women affected sparked lasting reforms in labor laws and helped fuel the women’s suffrage movement. Their courage continues to inspire generations.

While this itinerary highlights just a few key locations, part of the joy of the tour lies in discovery—so we’ve saved many stops as a surprise for the journey.

Guests who choose the Historical Walking Tour ($39) with Pizza option ($19) will enjoy slices from three of New York City’s top pizzerias. The pizza portion adds approximately one hour to the experience after the walking tour concludes. Please note: the $19 price covers admission only; food and drink are purchased separately by guests. The standard walking tour is also available without the pizza add-on for $39.