While there is SO much to do in Hoboken and Jersey City, we’re lucky enough to have such easy and quick access to New York City. So close and so full of life and activities, in fact, we’ve dubbed our areas the 6th Borough. When you feel like venturing outside of Hudson County, you can hop on the PATH for a 20 minute ride max — and you’ll never know what you can discover. In this new series of NYC PATH exploration, we’re showing you the best places to eat, drink, shop, and explore at every PATH stop. This week, we’re sharing what to do around the Christopher Street PATH stop. Here are the top things you must check out around the West Village:
{Photo: @mikeiadevaia}
Things to Do
Bike Rentals {Right by Christopher Street PATH stop}
There’s nothing quite as intense {but fun} as biking around the city during spring and summer, so take advantage of the sights with a ride around West Village for a reasonable price. Head on over to the pier for free kayaking {yes, FREE}, a park, volleyball, skatepark, and much more. If you want a more elevated experience, go to Grand Banks for an oyster bar and cocktails with a waterfront view.
Maries Crisis {59 Grove Street}
If you love Broadway and Disney, you’re about to be in heaven. This dive bar is anything but ordinary. Known for its sing-along experience paying tribute to Broadway’s best show tunes, everyone will have the time of their lives singing from the top of their lungs. Head here to end your night on the perfect note {pun intended}. With roots in the 1850s, there’s a reason it’s been around so long.
Slowly Shirley {121 W 10th Street}
{Photo: @abriltatianaflores}
While there’s a flurry of jazz spots in West Village, Slowly Shirley will guarantee you a great night. A self-proclaimed elegant subterranean cocktail bar, this snazzy spot is for a more sophisticated evening. You can look forward to art deco ambiance, old-school hotel service, and an overall tribute to Old Hollywood glamour throughout.
Landmarks
Stonewall Inn {53 Christopher Street}
{Photo: @nicahderusha}
This gay bar is known as the spot where Pride began, it’s the historic spot to learn more about how the LGBTQIA movement began during a summer night in 1969. It’s also a National Historic Landmark, so if you want to get a history lesson in and then grab a drink after, it’s just the place to check out.
Washington Square Arch {Washington Square Park}
Did you know you were so close to a famous landmark that’s in basically every movie or show based on New York {from Glee to I Am Legend}? The gorgeous piece of marble architecture actually celebrates the centennial of George Washington’s inauguration as President of the United States in 1789. Located right by the NYU campus, it’s located in a popular park for locals to walk dogs {there’s a dog park to watch pups, of course} and tourists to roam around in some peace and quiet.
Mark Twain House {14 W 10th Street}
While this home may most widely be known as Mark Twain’s residence, with a nickname like “The House of Death,” it’s also a popular tourist spot for its tragic and spooky history. This home was built in the 1850s {Mark Twain lived there from 1900-1901}, and 22 people have died inside. It’s been known to have spirits lingering around, so if you want to possibly see Mark Twain’s ghost, you’ll want to swing by this controversial residence.
Places to Eat/Drink
Le Bain at The Standard {848 Washington Street}
If you want a quintessential penthouse night out in the city, Le Bain’s disco dance floor complete with multiple disco balls and neon lights will give you just that. Located in Meatpacking, the trendy discothèque and rooftop bar is definitely where the cool kids go — just make sure you know the DJ that night or you might get turned away {there’s also usually no cover}. During the summer, the patio is the place to be with an amazing panorama of downtown NYC and of course, a gorgeous view of Hoboken.
Big Gay Ice Cream {61 Grove Street}
{Photo: @beibites}
For all your ice-cream ‘grammers, you’ve probably seen this colorful shop on social media once or twice {or so much that you feel like you’ve been there already}. This little ice cream truck-turned-foodie phenomenon is known for its quirky take on classic ice cream parlour favorites. With menu items called “Salty Pimp” {a take on a chocolate-dipped soft serve with a touch of dulce de leche} you can see why this shop has captivated the stomachs of people from all over.
Fat Cat {75 Christopher Street}
{Photo: @s_alou}
Just a five-minute walk from Maries Crisis {see above}, Fat Cat is just the spot to hit up for some liquid courage before you get your sing-along on. It’s part dive bar/jazz club with cheap drinks and plenty of games like pool and pong to keep the squad entertained for hours.
Little Owl {90 Bedford Street}
If you’ve watched Friends {who are we kidding, of course, you have}, you’ll recognize this spot. Hint: it makes an appearance in the opening credits of the show since it’s in the same building where the crew lives in. With 10 years under its belt, there’s a reason it’s a West Village staple. With a seasonal menu, you can always expect fresh and exciting meals. Chef Joey Campanaro includes dishes inspired by his childhood, and the environment makes for the perfect business lunch spot. With just 28 seats and four at the bar, it’s an ultra-intimate experience that feels like you’re in someone’s home.
Murray’s Cheese {254 Bleeker Street}
Say cheese! It’s no secret that living in the Tri-State area makes you a charcuterie addict. If you want to pick up some fresh French favorites, look no further than Murray’s Cheese for the best gourmet cheeses. You can also pick up delectable meats and specialty foods like pasts and desserts to complete your board.
And that’s just a few of the things happening right around Christopher Street, should you find yourself there with some time to kill.
What are some other go-tos in that area that you love? Share with us in the comments below!
