A Quarters Day Out: Tompkins Square Park
Have you been watching Russian Doll? Have you heard this song by Mumford and Sons? If you’re moving into the Quarters East Village, it might be time to do both. Tompkins Square Park, one of the most interesting social and cultural spaces in the history of NYC, is on the next block. The closest green space might be the 6BC Botanical Garden which is just on our doorstep but Tompkins Square Park is well worth the walk.
According to this article, Tompkins Square Park has been a site of intense change over the last 100 years. According to the NYC Parks department, Tompkins Square Park is “a perfect centerpiece for its eclectic neighborhood, which houses artists, radicals, fashion lovers, and those who have lived in the neighborhood for decades and witnessed its many change.” We like it because It’s the best place in the area for people watching and a damn good place to go with your roomies or your BFF.
We recommend picking up a sandwich from Sunny & Annie’s Deli on the way and sitting on the grass. Watch the world go by, you’re in NYC. On fridays in Summer, you can stop by and watch Films on the Green, a free weekly French film screening. Take your sandwich, maybe take a housemate or friend, definitely take a blanket or pillow. The park runs a full program of events which are available via the NYC Parks & Recreation department website.
For all year round fun, I recommend the Green Market. Gather your housemates on a chilly New York morning and head out to get some fresh regional produce. Pick up some kimchi for the Bimbimbap you’re whipping up later or grab some fresh bread from Meredith’s Bakery, a guaranteed crowd pleaser is the gluten-free rosemary and olive bread. Head to Bread Alone for a Twice Baked Almond Croissant or a Paris Apple Tart. For the ultimate housemate points, go out early and bring some home to share.
