Greenwich Village Tour: Arts, Activism and Social Justice

With its meandering streets, vibrant history, and a strong sense of community, Greenwich Village remains distinct within New York City. During this Greenwich Village walking tour, we explore the history of this enigmatic neighborhood, from its Native American roots, through the Dutch tobacco farms and the English estates of "Green Which," to the emergence of the Bohemian Village of the '60s.

Our time together begins at the Jefferson Market Library, formerly a district courthouse, where women of the Garment industry often held protests–seeking to gain increased wages, reduced working hours, and union representation. From here, we venture to Stonewall Inn, where many of the nation's first gay rights activists gathered, marched, grieved, and fought for equal treatment under the law. 

Our journey continues as we reach Cherry Lane Theatre, which has been the oldest continuously running off-Broadway theater since 1923. From here, we venture further into the neighborhood to experience Minetta Lane, which has borne witness to the daily lives of authors such as Walt Whitman and singer-songwriters such as Bob Dylan. During this tour, we’ll also venture through the campus of the famed New York University – learning about many of the scholars and workers who have grown from these classrooms to become change-makers in our global community. 

The highlight of this tour will be Washington Square Park. Here we pause to learn about the Native American village that once occupied this circle. We’ll learn about the Park’s storied history as the site of countless important protests and social movements throughout the nation’s history. Our tour concludes as we move towards the Washington Mews–a former row of stables transformed into the studios of famous artists.

Generally speaking, the walk begins near Jefferson Market Library. Your confirmation email will have the exact meeting point details along with a map.

Tours operate rain or shine, but in the case of inclement weather, your guide will modify the tour so more time is spent indoors. It never hurts to have an umbrella on hand.

Yes! We have some excellent family-friendly guides who can appeal to the learning styles of children. Please book privately if you have children under 13. Feel free to provide us with information about your children, such as their favorite school subjects and hobbies. This way, we can match you with the best possible guide.

This walk covers a small radius in the West Village, and some streets and sidewalks can be uneven. There are occasional opportunities to sit, use the bathroom, and get something to drink if needed. Please contact us with any questions; we will be happy to advise if this tour will be appropriate for you.