Washington Square Park Tours and Activities

Washington Square Park which includes a garden
Washington Square Park showing a park as well as a large group of people
Washington Square Park featuring a garden and signage
Washington Square Park
Washington Square Park which includes a park as well as a small group of people


In a city with many pretty parks, this is one of the most beautiful. You may recognise its iconic arch and fountain from a movie or postcard.

The best way to enter Washington Square Park is from the north, on 5th Avenue. As you pass high-end medical offices and views of the Empire State Building, you will emerge by the enormous archway and memorial that rises well above the rest of the park. Proceed under the arch and walk to the centre of the park for another of its highlights. Here, you will find an enormous fountain that was once a popular hangout for bohemians, academics and artists.

Built in 1871, the park is named after the Washington Square Arch, a memorial erected to celebrate the centennial of George Washington’s inauguration as president of the United States. Take a walk around all the beautiful gardens enclosed in this area.

On the western side of the park, play a game of chess for money. The men who play here are skilled, so be careful if you have not studied chess before. For the seasoned player there are enough opponents to fill multiple afternoons. In the past, they included director Stanley Kubrick, who made money by playing matches here.

Sit for an impromptu concert. Buskers come to the park with accordions, guitars and even baby grand pianos to play a wide variety of genres of music. Some are highly skilled and sell their music on CDs.

Washington Square Park is located in Greenwich Village. The West Village is only two blocks to the west and the Bowery is only two to the east. While the park has undergone major restorations and is much safer than it has ever been, it is still best to visit during the day. Though the centre is usually lit and crowded later in the day, avoid walking alone through the western side of the park at night.

While you’re in the Washington Square Park area, visit the IFC Centre on 6th Avenue, and see an independent film. Enjoy a walk in this cluster of New York City’s most charming and distinctly European neighbourhoods. Linger for a while in an antique book shop and sit down for an afternoon cappuccino.

Plan a trip to see Washington Square Park

Price found within the past 48 hours. Click for updated prices.
The Lexington Hotel, Autograph Collection
INNSiDE by Meliá New York Nomad
The Dominick

Tours & day trips

See all 837 activities

Private & custom tours

See all 247 activities

Food, drink & nightlife

See all 118 activities

Shows & concerts

See all 50 activities

Popular places to visit


Top Washington Square Park Hotel & Accommodation Deals

PUBLIC, an Ian Schrager hotel

PUBLIC, an Ian Schrager hotel

4 out of 5
215 Chrystie St, New York, NY
PUBLIC, an Ian Schrager hotel
Hyatt Grand Central New York

Hyatt Grand Central New York

4 out of 5
109 East 42nd Street, at Grand Central Terminal, New York, NY
Hyatt Grand Central New York
Now Now NoHo

Now Now NoHo

2 out of 5
338 Bowery, New York, NY
Now Now NoHo
The Marlton Hotel

The Marlton Hotel

4.5 out of 5
5 W 8th St, New York, NY
The Marlton Hotel
Soho Grand Hotel

Soho Grand Hotel

4.5 out of 5
310 W Broadway, New York, NY
Soho Grand Hotel
The Jane Hotel

The Jane Hotel

2 out of 5
113 Jane St, New York, NY
The Jane Hotel
Chelsea Inn

Chelsea Inn

3 out of 5
46 W 17th St, New York, NY
Chelsea Inn
Soho 54

Soho 54

3 out of 5
54 Watts Street, New York, NY
Soho 54
The Dominick

The Dominick

5 out of 5
246 Spring Street, New York, NY
The Dominick
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Washington Square Park

Washington Square Park is a vibrant hub for theatre, art, and entertainment in New York City. Visitors can enjoy free tours of the park, explore nearby music venues, and immerse themselves in the lively atmosphere filled with street performances. Whether you're keen on soaking up the local culture or simply relaxing in the park, there's no shortage of activities to make your visit memorable.

Shopping

In Washington Square Park, visit Macy's, only 1.6km away, for a vibrant shopping experience. Katz's Delicatessen is a must-try at 1.3km, and for fresh produce, check out Grand Central Market, located 3.2km from the park.

Recreation

Experience a captivating concert at Carnegie Hall, just 4.8km away, where world-class performances await. For a bit of fun, enjoy ice skating at the Rink at Rockefeller Center, located 3.2km away, or indulge in luxury at the University Club, also 3.2km away, for a refined retreat.

Adventure

Experience the thrills at DreamWorks Water Park, 9.7km from Washington Square Park, where water slides and wave pools await. For more adventure, head to East River Park, located 3.2km away, perfect for outdoor activities. Test your climbing skills at ExtraVertical Climbing Center, 4.8km away, with diverse climbing challenges.

Nightlife

Experience vibrant nightlife at the Museum of Sex for adults-only fun, only 1.6km from Washington Square Park. For a more relaxed vibe, visit the drinking pub at 51-53 Christopher Street, just 483m away, offering entertainment and romance. Don't miss the Astor Place Theatre, 644m away, for cultural performances.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Washington Square Park

Washington Square Park is a vibrant hub in New York City, perfect for those seeking cultural experiences and family-friendly activities. Explore the surrounding streets and towering skyscrapers while soaking in the local atmosphere. Popular attractions include the park itself, making it an ideal spot to relax or enjoy a stroll. If you're looking for accommodation, consider staying near Washington Square Park to fully immerse yourself in this lively area.

  • Times Square: Immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Times Square, located 3.2km from Washington Square Park. Known as The Crossroads of the World, this bustling hub is filled with dazzling lights, street performers, and an array of shops and eateries. Experience the city’s electric energy and iconic billboards that make it a must-see.
  • Madison Square Garden: Just 1.6km away, Madison Square Garden is a premier venue for concerts, sports, and entertainment. It offers a family-friendly vibe and hosts world-class events, making it an exciting destination for visitors of all ages.
  • Grand Central Terminal: A mere 3.2km from Washington Square Park, Grand Central Terminal is a stunning architectural masterpiece. With its grand concourse and historical significance, it embodies New York’s rich culture and is a perfect spot to marvel at artistry and history.

Best time to go to Washington Square Park

The best time to visit Washington Square Park is dependant on what kind of holiday you are seeking. July is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain. January is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly low and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.

calendarCalendar MonthtemperatureTemperaturerainPrecipitationmostlyCloudinessoccupationOccupancypricePricing
January31.6°F (-0.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
February33.1°F (0.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
March40.5°F (4.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
April51.1°F (10.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
May61.3°F (16.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
June70.2°F (21.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
July76.8°F (24.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
August75.4°F (24.1°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
September68.7°F (20.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighSlightly High
October57.9°F (14.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
November46.0°F (7.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowAverage
December37.9°F (3.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Washington Square Park

To save money on your trip to Washington Square Park, consider visiting from January to March for lower hotel rates. Booking about a month in advance often yields the best prices, while Sundays are typically cheaper than Saturdays. Use Expedia to find budget-friendly accommodations and explore package deals that combine hotels, flights, and activities for additional savings. Take advantage of free activities in the park and utilise public transport options to keep costs down while enjoying all that New York has to offer.

  • The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Washington Square Park are January to March, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to September to October and December, where prices are slightly higher.
  • The best time to book a hotel: Booking a hotel around Washington Square Park about 1 month out from when you are planning to stay is usually when prices are lowest. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals for hotels, look out for the green banner below the price, as this indicates a cheaper deal.
  • The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Washington Square Park is Sunday. The most expensive day to stay around Washington Square Park is Saturday.
  • Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and preferred hotel type. To find the most affordable prices and offers, arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
  • Consider bundling your trip: You can save some dollars by combining your hotel stay near Washington Square Park with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.