Greenwich Village is located in Manhattan, north of Houston Street stretching west to the River, south of 14^th Street to Hudson.

This area was once criss-crossed with streams and dotted with small farms. As a result, the area would not conform to the city's grid pattern. Its pattern of streets has been likened to a "mousetrap" and visitors often get lost. The name "The Village" comes from a time when the area, then a small village, was used as an escape from the yellow fever epidemic of 1822.

Greenwich Village is synonymous with avant-garde, offbeat lifestyles, non-conformists and starving artists. The offbeat feeling is still here, but the starving artists are gone. No starving artist could afford to live here! The often unusual, but always delightful architecture of Greenwich Village lends itself to its quirky atmosphere. The castle-like Jefferson Market Courthouse, for example, was voted the fifth most beautiful house in America.

At night, Greenwich Village comes alive with sounds from late-night coffeehouses, cafés, experimental theaters, and music clubs. Many famous people have made their homes in Greenwich Village. The small apartment buildings and townhouses built in the mid to late 1800's with their old architecture, the tree-lined streets and the many small parks are the lure to those who choose this location. The small living space is an easy trade-off for the convenience and attractions of the neighborhood. You'll find many cozy, European cafes and restaurants buzzing with activity round the clock.

With well over 100 different clubs and bars in the area offering all kinds of musical entertainment. The West Village is by far and away, considered to be Manhattan's most charming neighborhood.

See a map of this neighborhood.