Quaint Encounters

The Village got its name from Groenwijck – Dutch for “Green District”, named during the period of Dutch control over the area. In its early days, this historical neighborhood formed a significant part of the American bohemian culture in the early and mid-20th Century. It was the ground for many political, artistic and cultural movements. 

One prominent institution in the Village is the Whitney Museum of American Art, founded in 1931. It was built in response to MoMA’s neglect on American Art. The Whitney then became a space for for younger and lesser-known artists to showcase and exhibit their works.

Although many artists lamented that urban bohemia they once knew is long gone, you can still experience remnants of it. The colors, the artistic residents and the alternative culture of the bohemian lifestyle continues to make Greenwich Village the warm and welcoming neighborhood it is today.

The communal culture of its residents (and visitors) is most prominent in the heart of the Village, that is the Washington Square Park. We have a list of activities and places for you to explore in Greenwich, so read on!