Destinations / New York City / Top Things to Do in New York City with Kids in Greenwich Village
Top Things to Do in New York City with Kids in Greenwich Village
1. Washington Square Park
The Village’s lively heart, anchored by the marble arch and central fountain, with playgrounds, musicians, chess tables, and wide paths perfect for strollers and scooters.
✓ Why Go:
It packs classic New York energy into a compact, car‑free space where kids can run, splash, and people‑watch while parents soak up skyline views and street performances.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Morning to late morning for gentler crowds; summer afternoons for sprinklers and fountain mist; golden hour for photos under the arch.
✓ Insider Tip:
Bring a change of clothes for spray and fountain play, and stop by the northwestern dog run—little ones love watching the pups.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Families praise the spirited but welcoming vibe and say it’s a must‑start for a Village day with kids.
2. Jefferson Market Library
A storybook Victorian landmark with a bright children’s room, cozy nooks, and periodic family activities in the shaded garden.
✓ Why Go:
It’s a calm counterpoint to the park—great for quiet time, picture books, and letting imaginations roam in a castle‑like setting.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Mid‑afternoon on weekdays for the quietest browsing; weekend mornings for a relaxed family stop between neighborhood strolls.
✓ Insider Tip:
Head up to the mezzanine stacks for a fun hide‑and‑seek feel, then explore the small garden when it’s open for wiggle breaks.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Parents love the friendly librarians and say kids feel like they’ve stepped into a fairy tale tower.
3. James J. Walker Park
A neighborhood favorite with a well‑equipped playground, ball fields, and plenty of benches under mature trees.
✓ Why Go:
It’s where local families actually play—swing sets, climbing features, and space to kick a ball without Midtown crowds.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Late afternoon when shade covers the playground; weekends for pick‑up games and a friendly community buzz.
✓ Insider Tip:
Pack a ball and snacks, then wander a block to Carmine Street for an easy post‑play treat.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Visitors call it a “slice of real Village life” and appreciate the clean, low‑key vibe.
4. Pier 40 at Hudson River Park
A massive riverside pier with turf fields, breezy promenades, and sweeping Hudson views—perfect for scooters, kites, and sunset strolls.
✓ Why Go:
It’s open space on the water within minutes of Village streets, giving kids room to move and parents a scenic breather.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Late afternoon into sunset for cooler temps and glowing light on the river.
✓ Insider Tip:
Bring a lightweight kite or a frisbee; afterward, watch the boats from the esplanade for a calm wind‑down.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Families rave about the fresh air, easy bathrooms, and stress‑free space to play.
5. IFC Center
Indie movie hub that often screens family‑friendly animations, documentaries, and weekend matinees in comfy, intimate theaters.
✓ Why Go:
A cinematic break steps from Washington Square—introduce kids to off‑the‑beaten‑path films in a welcoming setting.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Weekend mornings for matinees; weekday early shows for smaller crowds.
✓ Insider Tip:
Sit mid‑theater for the best sound and easy aisle access; grab popcorn and plan a post‑film hot chocolate nearby.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Parents appreciate the thoughtful programming and mellow, respectful audience.
6. Film Forum
Beloved nonprofit cinema with occasional kids’ picks, retrospectives, and documentaries, plus a no‑frills concession stand.
✓ Why Go:
It’s where cinema lovers of all ages discover something new—quiet theaters and serious screens without the megaplex chaos.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Weekend late mornings or early afternoons for family‑friendly offerings and manageable lines.
✓ Insider Tip:
Check the schedule ahead for repertory gems suitable for tweens and teens; seats toward the back give easy exits for wiggles.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Visitors call it a Village institution with “real movie magic” for curious kids.
7. Chess Forum
A cozy, old‑school chess shop where kids can learn, play casual games, and pick up travel‑friendly sets and puzzles.
✓ Why Go:
It channels the neighborhood’s chess culture from the park into an approachable, all‑weather indoor stop.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Weekday afternoons for open tables; rainy days for an inviting brainy break.
✓ Insider Tip:
Ask staff for beginner‑friendly tactics or a puzzle book tailored to your child’s level.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Families love the welcoming vibe and patient guidance for new players.
8. The Uncommons
NYC’s original board‑game cafe stocked with hundreds of titles, from preschool favorites to strategy hits for teens.
✓ Why Go:
It’s screen‑free fun in the heart of the Village, ideal for mixed‑age groups and rainy‑day downtime.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Weekday late afternoons; weekend mornings right at open to avoid waits.
✓ Insider Tip:
Pick a quick‑play game first so kids get a win before tackling longer titles.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Parents praise the friendly staff and wide selection that keeps everyone engaged.
9. Magnolia Bakery
The West Village sweets icon known for cupcakes and famous banana pudding—an easy reward after playground time.
✓ Why Go:
It’s a treat that feels quintessentially Village, with kid‑approved flavors and grab‑and‑go convenience.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Mid‑morning or mid‑afternoon to miss peak lines.
✓ Insider Tip:
Order mini cupcakes for little hands and enjoy them on a nearby bench along quiet tree‑lined blocks.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Families call it a must‑stop indulgence that delights even picky eaters.
10. Friends Apartment Building
The instantly recognizable TV exterior—quick photo‑op at the Bedford and Grove corner that older kids and teens love.
✓ Why Go:
It’s a pop‑culture scavenger‑hunt moment in a charming West Village setting, surrounded by cafes and cobblestone vibes.
✓ Best Time to Visit:
Early morning for uncrowded photos; late afternoon for warm light on the facade.
✓ Insider Tip:
Be respectful—this is a real residence. Snap a pic, then grab a nearby slice to keep the adventure moving.
✓ What Visitors Say:
Visitors report big smiles and instant recognition—short, sweet, and worth the detour.
