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West Village - Manhattan - NYC

The West Village has a rich history influencing the progressive culture of New York City and America. Add to it the many, trendy cafés and shops, and the sleepy, winding residential streets and you have one of the most unique (and iconic) neighborhoods in Manhattan.

West Village video:

The neighborhood

The West Village resides between Houston Street and West 14th Street, the Hudson River and 6th Avenue. Unlike the rest of Manhattan, it does not conform to the predictable "Grid" of streets - which makes it easy to get lost in the myriad enclaves of this scenic neighborhood.

Here resides such historic locales such as the Stonewall Inn, Cherry Lane Theater, St. Luke's In The Fields, and the Jefferson Market Library. Some of the oldest remaining buildings in New York City can be found here.

The West Village, located in the western part of Greenwich Village, Manhattan, is a charming and historic neighborhood known for its bohemian atmosphere and vibrant culture. The neighborhood acquired its name due to its geographical location on the western side of the Greenwich Village area. With tree-lined streets, historic brownstones, and cozy cafes, the West Village offers a distinct and picturesque charm that has attracted artists, writers, and musicians for decades. It has a rich history as a hub of creativity and counterculture, with notable residents including poet Dylan Thomas, writer Jack Kerouac, and folk singer Bob Dylan. The West Village also played a prominent role in the LGBTQ+ rights movement, being home to the iconic Stonewall Inn, a historic bar that sparked the Stonewall Riots in 1969 and became a symbol of the fight for LGBTQ+ rights. Today, the West Village continues to be a vibrant and diverse neighborhood, with its historic streets, boutique shops, art galleries, and renowned eateries making it a beloved destination for locals and visitors alike.

The West Village neighborhood is one of the oldest and most charming neighborhoods in Manhattan. Its name dates back to the early 19th century when it was still a small village separate from the rest of Manhattan. At the time, the area was referred to as the "Western Addition" to Greenwich Village, which was located to the east. Eventually, the neighborhood's name was shortened to "West Village" and it became known for its bohemian culture, artistic community, and quaint streets lined with brownstone buildings. Today, the West Village is still a thriving cultural hub with a rich history and unique charm that draws locals and tourists alike.

The West Village is one of Manhattan's most historic and eclectic neighborhoods. It was first settled by Dutch farmers in the late 1600s and later became a stronghold for the city's bohemian community in the early 1900s. The area also played a significant role in the LGBTQ+ rights movement, with the Stonewall Inn - an iconic gay bar - located on Christopher Street. Throughout the years, the West Village has lured artists, writers, and musicians, including Bob Dylan, Jimi Hendrix, and Jack Kerouac, which has given it a distinctive and creative flair. Because of the cultural significance of the neighborhood and its charming brownstone buildings, the West Village has been designated as a historic district. Today, it is known for its vibrant nightlife, upscale shops, and diverse dining options, making it a highly coveted slice of the city.

The West Village neighborhood in Manhattan is home to numerous iconic landmarks and attractions. Perhaps the most notable is the Washington Square Arch, which sits at the entrance of the famous Washington Square Park. Other must-see sites include the Stonewall Inn, recognized as the birthplace of the modern LGBTQ+ rights movement, and the High Line, an elevated park built on top of an old train track. The Village Vanguard, a jazz club that has hosted some of the biggest names in music, is another popular spot, as is the Jefferson Market Library, a stunning Gothic-inspired building that has served as a courthouse and women's prison in the past. With its rich history and vibrant personality, the West Village is a captivating neighborhood that continues to inspire visitors and locals alike.

The West Village, located in Manhattan, has been home to numerous famous individuals throughout history. From the likes of Bob Dylan and Lou Reed, who were popular musicians in the 60s and 70s, to Edna St. Vincent Millay, a Pulitzer Prize-winning poet, the West Village has been a hub of creativity and artistry. Additionally, writers such as Jack Kerouac and Anaïs Nin made the neighborhood their home in the mid-twentieth century, contributing to the vibrant literary scene in the area. Today, the West Village's streets continue to attract celebrities, including Sarah Jessica Parker and Anderson Cooper, who call this unique, bustling neighborhood home.

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All photography provided by Samuel Walters