A Comprehensive Guide to Exploring the Historic and Haunted Sites of Greenwich Village, NYC

The quaint neighborhood of Greenwich Village in New York City is full of amazing history and haunted tales. From the architecture to the stories, it’s a place that’s kept many secrets over the years. Whether you’re a fan of history or the paranormal, there are plenty of things to explore in this unique New York City neighborhood.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll take a look at the history, haunted attractions, and some of the best spots to explore in Greenwich Village. Keep reading to learn more!

History of Greenwich Village, NYC

Often referred to as simply “The Village”, Greenwich Village is a neighborhood on the west side of Manhattan that was originally settled by the Lenape Native Americans. The Lenape called the area Sapokanikan, which means “tobacco field”.

Eventually, Europeans began to settle in the area and it was first known as Sapokanikan before becoming part of Lower Manhattan. During the early 19th century, the population in Greenwich Village began to grow and it soon became one of the most popular neighborhoods in New York City.

The development and growth of Greenwich Village really began to take off in the 1950s and 60s, when many notable writers and artists moved into the area. Since then, Greenwich Village has become home to a variety of creative people, including writers, musicians, actors, and other artists.

The Haunted Sites of Greenwich Village

As with any city that has such a long and storied history, there are several haunted sites in Greenwich Village. From haunted houses to cemeteries, these haunted sites have managed to stay with us throughout the years.

Lyceum Theatre

The Lyceum Theatre on 45th Street is one of the most popular haunted sites in Greenwich Village. It is said to be haunted by the spirit of actress Janet Scott, who died tragically in her dressing room in 1953. According to legend, Scott took her own life after learning that her lover had been unfaithful. To this day, it is said that theatergoers can sometimes hear strange noises and feel a chill when they pass her dressing room.

The White Horse Tavern

The White Horse Tavern is one of the oldest bars in Greenwich Village and has been around since 1880. According to local legend, the ghost of poet Dylan Thomas still haunts the bar. It is said that he can be heard reciting poetry late at night and that his ghost can be seen sitting in his usual booth.

Washington Square Park

Washington Square Park is one of the most popular parks in Greenwich Village and is also said to be haunted. The spirits that are rumored to haunt the park include Revolutionary War soldiers, ghosts from a former mental asylum, and a woman who walks around searching for her lost cat. Many visitors report feeling a chill or hearing strange noises when they visit.

The Best Spots To Explore in Greenwich Village

If you’re planning a trip to Greenwich Village, there are plenty of spots to explore. From historical landmarks to cultural attractions, here are some of the best spots for exploring the neighborhood:

MacDougal-Sullivan Garden Historic District

The MacDougal-Sullivan Garden Historic District is one of the oldest blocks of homes in Greenwich Village and is full of history. The streets are lined with historic buildings and cobblestone streets, giving visitors a unique glimpse into what life was like in 19th century New York City.

Washington Square Park

Washington Square Park is one of the most popular spots in Greenwich Village and it’s no wonder why – it’s full of interesting attractions and stunning views. It’s also home to the Washington Square Arch, which was built in 1889 to commemorate the centennial of President George Washington’s inauguration.

The Merchant House Museum

Located on East Fourth Street, The Merchant House Museum is an incredibly well-preserved 19th century home that once belonged to a wealthy merchant family. The museum offers guided tours of the house, giving visitors an intimate look into its fascinating history.

Experience the Haunted Side of Greenwich Village on a Tour

If you want to explore the haunted side of Greenwich Village, why not take a tour? A Haunted and Historic Pub Crawl takes you on a journey through some of the most haunted places in the village while sampling various types of beer and spirits. You’ll get an up close look at historic buildings such as St. John’s Church and learn about some of the neighborhood’s spooky tales along the way.

Conclusion

Greenwich Village is one of the most interesting neighborhoods in New York City – from its rich history to its haunted tales, there is something for everyone. Whether you’re looking to explore historical sites or experience something supernatural, there are plenty of ways to uncover all that Greenwich Village has to offer. So what are you waiting for? Start exploring today!