New York County, New York
Washington Square Park
Municipal park
Washington Square Park occupies the blocks around Washington Square North in Greenwich Village, on land that was once a potter's field and parade ground. The Washington Arch, built in 1889, anchors the park's northern entrance.
Why Visit
It is the Village's living room: a fountain plaza, chess tables, dog runs and a constant stream of musicians and students from nearby NYU.
Amenities & Facilities
- Fountain plaza
- Chess tables
- Dog runs
- Playgrounds
Things to Do
- See the Washington Arch
- Listen to musicians at the fountain
- Play chess
- Walk into Greenwich Village
Best For
People-watching and a classic New York park experience.
Parking & Visiting
Parking is limited in surrounding neighborhoods. Public transit is the practical way to reach most of these parks; confirm current rules with NYC Parks before visiting.
Nearby Communities
- Greenwich Village
- West Village
- East Village
- SoHo
Related Attractions
- Washington Arch
- NYU
- The Strand bookstore
- Washington Mews
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Washington Square Park free?
Yes. It is a public park open to all.
Who built the Washington Arch?
The arch was designed by Stanford White and erected in 1889 to mark the centennial of George Washington's inauguration.
Seasonal Note
Trail conditions, beach staffing, boat rentals and road access change with the season. Confirm current hours and closures with the managing agency before you travel, especially in winter and early spring.
