Nestled in the heart of Greenwich Village, Washington Square Park is one of New York's more famous landmarks. It forms a rectangular space with the approximate area of two blocks north-south and three blocks east-west. It is located between 3rd and 8th street north and south, and Fifth Avenue terminates on the North Side and is mirrored by Thompson and LaGuardia (aka West Broadway) in the south. The Park is surrounded almost entirely by New York University buildings (with the notable exception of Judson Church).

Although it is called a park, it arguably has more concrete than grass. The three-story ceremonial arch on the center of the park's north side is dedicated to George Washington and features statues of him facing towards Fifth Avenue. A large fountain is located in the center of the park. It is kept dry in the winter (and makes a natural stage for the street performers) and runs during the summer. To the southeast and a southwest of the fountain are an elevated plaza/bocce ball court and a dog park respectively. Public restrooms are located south of dog run for the intrepid or desperate. The park is criss-crossed by lengthwise and diagonal paths and also includes several lawns, a childrens' playground, a skating area often used also for dramatic performances, and an area on the southwest corner actively used by chess players day and night¹

A Diverse Public Space

History

The Arch

The Triumphal arch is one of New York's recognized symbols.