Oh, to be a student in New York City! The hustle and bustle of the city may seem overwhelming at first, but with plenty to do in the city, you are sure to thrive there. As a freshman at NYU, you may be moving to the city for the first time. That’s why we’re here to help you navigate this new experience.
New York University’s campus is located in lower Manhattan, in an area called Greenwich Village. With campus being spread across several streets and buildings, it’s likely you’ll quickly get used to walking through this neighborhood and experiencing its rich culture. As a starter, here are some of the best gems of Greenwich Village:
1. Take a stroll through Washington Square Park
A go-to spot for NYU students is Washington Square Park, a favorite park for many. The majestic marble arch is an iconic monument of New York City and stands at the center of the park. If you’re wanting to catch up with a friend, consider grabbing a coffee and taking a stroll through the park, or when finals season comes around, you can relax here as you read a book or finish your homework.
2. Explore Bleecker Street and MacDougal Street
One of the most popular streets in the city, Bleecker Street offers everything you might want to do in a day. You can sit and study at one of its many cafes along with other NYU students, eat lunch at a delicious pizza place, go bar hopping at night, or see a live band or comedy show. As a student, you’ll likely spend your time exploring this lively, vibrant street.
Like Bleecker Street, MacDougal Street is another energetic and historic area full of bars, restaurants, and venues.
3. Embrace the history of Greenwich Village
Many buildings in this area date back to the 18th and 19th century. It also became known as the Bohemian Capital in the 1900s as it was a place for the unconventional lifestyles of famous artists and musicians. To name a few, Jackson Pollock, Andy Warhol, Bob Dylan, and John Lennon settled here during their careers, and their artistic and musical expression continues to influence the culture of Greenwich Village.
The Village is culturally diverse and historical influences can be seen within its architecture and landmarks. Its history remains alive, which is what makes it so charming.
