Washington Square - a man sitting on a bench surrounded by pigeons
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Washington Square

4.6
·667 reviews·Salt Lake City, United States

A vibrant heart of Greenwich Village, famous for its iconic arch, lively street performers, and chess culture.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Wednesdays, 6–9 PM

Free salsa dancing!

CrowdMedium
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Washington Square - a man sitting on a bench surrounded by pigeons

Washington Square

Best Time

Wednesdays, 6–9 PM

Free salsa dancing!

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A vibrant heart of Greenwich Village, famous for its iconic arch, lively street performers, and chess culture.

4.6
(667 reviews)

"Washington Square Park is a must-see for its energy, iconic arch, and diverse performers."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Chess Etiquette

Be aware of potential cheating; strong players are present but not all are IMs.

🚚 Food Truck Finds

Follow @nydosas on Instagram for daily locations of their delicious dosas.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Washington Square Arch

Washington Square Arch

Center of the park

Iconic Beaux-Arts arch, a beloved landmark and popular photo spot.

Chess Plaza

Chess Plaza

Near the arch

Watch or join intense chess matches with local hustlers and skilled players.

Street Performers

Street Performers

Throughout the park

Enjoy spontaneous performances from musicians, dancers, and artists.

Salsa Social

Salsa Social

Near the arch

Join free salsa dancing lessons and social dancing on Wednesday evenings.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Vibe

Washington Square Park is a vibrant hub of activity, from street performers to chess matches. Arrive ready to soak in the energy and perhaps catch a free salsa lesson! Instagram

Food Truck Delights

Don't miss the incredible food trucks often found in the park, especially the highly-rated dosas. Check their Instagram for daily locations! Instagram

Best Times

When
Wednesdays, 6–9 PM
Why
Free salsa dancing!
Crowd
Medium
When
Afternoons
Why
Peak street performer energy
Crowd
High
When
Weekdays, early morning
Why
Quieter, great for photos
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Hidden Gem in Washington DC #washingtondc #dctiktok
@yourdcbestie
67.7K likes • 943.7K views

🎯 Chess Etiquette

Be aware of potential cheating; strong players are present but not all are IMs. Reddit

🚚 Food Truck Finds

Follow @nydosas on Instagram for daily locations of their delicious dosas. Instagram

This is your sign to plan a trip to Washington, DC! #travel #washingtondc #nationalmall
@jillyannekent
59.8K likes • 1.5M views
LE MEILLEUR FOOD TRUCK 🇮🇳 @nydosas (selon un classement totalement subjectif déterminé que personne ne m’a demandé). . 📍 Washington square (les jours de présence varient et sont indiquées quotidiennement sur le compte insta de @nydosas ) Les dosas : une pâte de riz et de lentilles, fermentée puis cuite jusqu’à devenir fine et croustillante. On les déguste avec du sambar (soupe de lentilles) et...
alix.grousset
7.4K likes • 201.1K views

💃 Salsa Nights

Free lessons and dancing every Wednesday evening until late October. Instagram

📸 Arch Photo Ops

The Washington Square Arch is a must-see for photos, especially during golden hour. Instagram

📍Washington Square Park, New York I pullman M1, M2 e M3 che percorrono tutta la 5th avenue ti porteranno direttamente qui (la fermata è East 8 St & 5 Avenue) #travel #traveltips #tips #storytime #newyork #newyorkcity #nyc #washingtonsquarepark
territiracconta
4.1K likes • 162.1K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Chess Etiquette

Be aware of potential cheating; strong players are present but not all are IMs. Reddit

🚚 Food Truck Finds

Follow @nydosas on Instagram for daily locations of their delicious dosas. Instagram

💃 Salsa Nights

Free lessons and dancing every Wednesday evening until late October. Instagram

📸 Arch Photo Ops

The Washington Square Arch is a must-see for photos, especially during golden hour. Instagram

🚇 Easy Access

Take the M1, M2, or M3 buses along 5th Avenue for direct access. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.6
(667 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about Washington Square Park's vibrant atmosphere, iconic arch, and diverse street performers. It's a lively hub for people-watching and cultural immersion. Some note that while chess players are skilled, they aren't all grandmasters, and it's wise to be cautious. The park's accessibility and free entertainment make it a beloved spot.

"I absolutely love visiting Washington Square. That's definitely a highlight of downtown Salt Lake that you must see.

No bump into people from all over the world visiting the beautiful historic building. I often get asked questions about it from people from all over the us as well as the world.

There are plenty of paved pathways and 6 beautiful circular floral gardens. It's a beautiful building to take engagement pictures, I see a lot of high school graduation pictures taken here too.

Their security here is on point and the very best in the city. This is where the mayor of Salt Lake city's office is as well. So it is the city and county building.

If you decide to bring your dog, they will love it! Please remember to keep your dog on a leash at all times and to pick up after them."

Heidi Perkins

"The park is also the city hall, situated on a 10-acre site that served as a staging ground for newly arrived Mormon pioneers and wagon trains bound for other Western areas in the past; it was designated a public square in 1847.

There is a fair going on that Saturday, featuring food vendors, clothing, crafts, and more."

Irene Eng

"Gay pride was the best yet this year, Fearless Insanity's booth of art, real succulents, and shoe design was extremely badass. Love the locals!"

Jessica Goeller

What People Like

Vibrant atmosphere
Iconic arch
Street performers

What People Dislike

Potential for cheating in chess
Can be crowded

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Washington Square Park is easily accessible by public transportation. The M1, M2, and M3 buses run along 5th Avenue, with a convenient stop at East 8th Street & 5th Avenue. Instagram The park is also a short walk from several subway lines, including the N, Q, R, W, and L trains at the 8th Street–NYU station.

Parking in Greenwich Village can be challenging and expensive. It's generally recommended to use public transport. If you must drive, look for parking garages in the surrounding areas, but be prepared for high rates.

Washington Square Park is generally safe, but like any busy urban park, it's wise to be aware of your surroundings. Keep valuables secure and be mindful of your personal belongings, especially during crowded events. Reddit

Several subway lines serve the area around Washington Square Park. The N, Q, R, and W trains stop at 8th Street–NYU, and the L train also stops nearby. This makes it very convenient to reach from various parts of the city. Instagram

Yes, biking is a popular way to get to Washington Square Park. There are Citi Bike stations nearby, and many people cycle through the park. Just be mindful of pedestrians and follow park rules for cyclists.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Yes, Washington Square Park is completely free to enter and explore. It's a public space open to everyone to enjoy its atmosphere, performances, and landmarks. TikTok

Washington Square Park is generally open from early morning until late evening. While specific hours can vary slightly, it's a public park that you can typically access throughout the day and into the night.

Most events in Washington Square Park, such as street performances and the weekly Salsa Social, are free and do not require tickets. Instagram However, for any special ticketed events, information will be clearly advertised.

While there aren't official guided tours for the park itself, you can often find informal historical walking tours of Greenwich Village that include Washington Square. Many visitors enjoy exploring the park's history and landmarks independently. TikTok

Yes, dogs are welcome in Washington Square Park, but they must be kept on a leash at all times. Remember to clean up after your pet. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The Washington Square Arch is undoubtedly the most iconic spot for photos. Instagram Other great locations include the fountain area, the chess plaza, and anywhere you can capture the vibrant street performers and diverse crowd. The surrounding historic buildings also offer beautiful backdrops.

Generally, it's acceptable to take photos of street performers, but it's always polite to ask for permission, especially if you plan to use the photos professionally or commercially. Some performers may expect a tip if you're taking extensive photos or videos. TikTok

The 'golden hours' around sunrise and sunset offer beautiful, soft light for photography. However, the park is also vibrant and full of life during the day, offering unique candid shots. Evenings can be atmospheric with the lights. Instagram

There are generally no strict restrictions on personal photography in Washington Square Park. However, commercial photography or filming may require permits. Always be respectful of other visitors and performers. TikTok

Yes, Washington Square Park is a very popular spot for engagement and graduation photos due to its beautiful arch and historic architecture. Instagram

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Washington Square Park is famous for its diverse food trucks, with @nydosas being a highly recommended spot for dosas. Instagram You'll also find vendors selling snacks, ice cream, and drinks. The surrounding streets of Greenwich Village offer a vast array of restaurants, cafes, and eateries.

Absolutely! The area around Washington Square Park, known as Greenwich Village, is a culinary hotspot. You can find everything from casual pizza joints and cafes to upscale dining and international cuisine. Explore the side streets for hidden gems.

Yes, picnicking is a popular activity in Washington Square Park. You can bring your own food or grab something from a nearby vendor and find a spot on the grass or a bench to enjoy your meal.

The food trucks in Washington Square Park offer a variety of cuisines. You might find anything from Indian dosas Instagram to gourmet grilled cheese, tacos, and more. It's a great way to sample different flavors.

Yes, with the diverse food trucks and restaurants in the area, you'll find plenty of vegetarian and vegan options. Many food trucks are happy to customize orders to accommodate dietary needs.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Washington Square Park offers a lively and engaging experience for families. The open spaces are great for kids to run around, and the fountain is a popular spot. Keep an eye out for street performers, which can be very entertaining for younger visitors. TikTok The chess players can also be a point of fascination. Remember to bring snacks or plan to visit one of the many family-friendly eateries in the surrounding Greenwich Village area. Leashes are required for dogs, so if you bring a pet, be mindful of park rules. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

Washington Square Park is a dream for budget travelers, as it's entirely free to enter and offers a wealth of free entertainment. TikTok You can spend hours watching street performers, observing the chess matches, or simply soaking in the atmosphere. For affordable eats, explore the numerous food trucks Instagram and casual eateries in the surrounding neighborhood. Public transportation is also very budget-friendly for getting to and from the park. Instagram

couples

Washington Square Park provides a romantic and vibrant setting for couples. Stroll hand-in-hand under the Washington Square Arch, enjoy the lively street performers together, or even try a free salsa lesson on Wednesday evenings. Instagram The park's energetic yet relaxed vibe makes it perfect for a casual date. Afterwards, explore the charming streets of Greenwich Village for dinner at one of its many intimate restaurants.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Iconic Washington Square Arch

The Washington Square Arch is the undisputed centerpiece of the park, a magnificent Beaux-Arts structure designed by Stanford White. Completed in 1900, it commemorates George Washington's presidency. It's not just a monument; it's a gathering point, a backdrop for countless photos, and a symbol of Greenwich Village. Visitors often marvel at its grandeur and the intricate details of its design. Instagram

Many visitors find the arch particularly stunning during the 'golden hour' before sunset, when the stone glows with a warm light. It's a popular spot for engagement photos, graduation portraits, and casual selfies, making it a constantly buzzing area within the park. The sheer volume of people who have their picture taken here underscores its status as a quintessential New York City landmark. Instagram

The Chess Culture of Washington Square Park

Washington Square Park is renowned for its vibrant chess scene. The Chess Plaza, located near the arch, is a hub where players of all skill levels gather to play, observe, and sometimes even hustle. You'll find a mix of seasoned regulars, aspiring grandmasters, and casual players looking for a game. Reddit

While some online accounts suggest the players are exceptionally skilled, Reddit discussions indicate a range of abilities, with some players being quite strong but not necessarily professional. Reddit It's a fascinating microcosm of the city's diverse population, offering a unique cultural experience. Visitors can often challenge a player for a small fee, but it's wise to be aware and perhaps observe a few games first. Reddit

Live Performances and Spontaneous Art

One of the most captivating aspects of Washington Square Park is its constant stream of live entertainment. From talented musicians playing everything from jazz to classical, to energetic dancers, acrobats, and spoken word artists, there's always something happening. TikTok These spontaneous performances create a lively and dynamic atmosphere that draws crowds and adds to the park's unique charm. TikTok

Beyond formal performances, the park is a canvas for everyday artistry. You might see impromptu jam sessions, breakdancing crews, or even street painters. The Salsa Social on Wednesday evenings is a particularly popular event, offering free lessons and open dancing, transforming the area near the arch into a vibrant dance floor. Instagram It's this blend of planned and spontaneous creativity that makes Washington Square Park a must-visit destination for experiencing the pulse of New York City. TikTok

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