Nestled in the heart of Manhattan, West Village stands out as a beloved gem among New York City's diverse neighborhoods. Its appeal for us is the quiet city streets, with cobblestone as well as the quaint, unique and local business finds that await us on every block. Every visit is a treasure hunt and we walk away with new finds each time. West Village is our favorite neighborhood for this very reason.
The quaint streets and historic architecture transport you back in time. Charming brownstones on tree-lined streets create an enchanting atmosphere that feels distinctly different from the hustle and bustle of other city neighborhoods. Each time we step outside we see photo shoots occurring on the streets.
West Village has long been a haven for artists, writers and other creatives. The bohemian spirit is alive in the numerous art galleries, quirky boutiques, and vibrant street art that adorn the neighborhood. My favorite shopping in the neighborhood has been at Lingua Franca, Muse and Golden Bar. Although a chain, we do adore the Christian Loboutin store. We love Plant Shed because their workers are incredible (our son works there) and it's the cutest spot to grab a coffee, fresh flowers and a fun gift to bring home.
A food lovers paradise, West Village boasts a diverse array of eateries, from trendy cafes to historic bakeries. The neighborhood is a melting pot of culinary delights, offering everything from traditional Italian trattories to innovative, contemporary dining experiences. Exploring the local culinary scene is an adventure for the taste buds. We have enjoyed this exploration and can do it all on foot because there are so many places within steps. Some of our discoveries have been Malaparte and Osteria Nonnino, both small but very busy Italian restaurants. Aux Merveilleux de Fred is a wonderful bakery and Stafili is a fun wine cafe.
Despite being in the heart of Manhattan, West Village provides an escape to nature with its welcoming parks. Washington Square Park, with its iconic arch and lively atmosphere, Union Square Park filled with vendors on Saturdays, Abingdon Square a small park filled with tulips in the spring and Jefferson Market Garden, full of all types of flowers in spring. Being able to walk along the water or walking along the Highline both give us our fill of nature when the concrete jungle makes us crave a change of scenery.
The strong sense of community in West Village sets it apart. We think it feels like a small village within the city, where neighbors know each other and support local businesses. The community spirit fosters a sense of belonging and makes West Village an inviting place to call home. Many well known shows have scenes in West Village: Friends, Sex and the City, Mad Men and Gossip Girl to name a few.
West Village in NYC is a neighborhood that captivates with its old-world charm, artistic allure, diverse culinary scene and strong community bonds. Exploring its streets is like stepping into a storybook, where each corner reveals a new chapter of the city's rich history and cultural tapestry. For those seeking a unique and vibrant urban experience, away from the hustle and bustle and tourist crazed streets, West Village undoubtedly stands as the best in New York City. If you want to give it a try, we recommend staying at The Standard or Gansevoort Hotel where you'll be right in the middle of West Village!
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