Explore the haunted history of Greenwich Village on a 2-hour walking tour through one of New York City's most fascinating neighborhoods. Hear stories of ghosts, tragedy, murder, disease, famous residents, and unexplained encounters as your local guide reveals the darker side of Greenwich Village.
From Washington Square Park and the Hangman's Elm to the Triangle Shirtwaist Factory site, Mark Twain's House of Death, Jefferson Market, and Chumley's, discover the history and legends behind some of the Village's most intriguing—and supposedly haunted—locations.
Along the way, your guide will distinguish documented New York City history from local legends and reported paranormal encounters. Whether you love ghost stories, enjoy unusual New York history, or simply want to explore Greenwich Village after dark, this tour offers a fascinating look at the neighborhood's haunted past.
Greenwich Village Ghost Tour Highlights
Washington Square Park
Washington Square Park has a long and sometimes unsettling history. The park was once a potter's field and burial ground, and thousands of people were buried here, including victims of yellow fever epidemics.
Today, Washington Square is one of Greenwich Village's best-known landmarks—and the setting for numerous ghost stories and reports of unexplained activity.
Washington Square Arch
The famous arch has stood at the northern entrance to Washington Square Park since the 19th century. Learn about the history surrounding the park and the strange stories associated with this iconic Greenwich Village landmark.
The Hangman's Elm
The Hangman's Elm is believed to be one of the oldest living trees in Manhattan. According to local tradition, executions once took place beneath its branches.
Hear the stories surrounding the tree and why this historic Greenwich Village landmark has developed a reputation for being haunted.
Triangle Shirtwaist Factory
The Triangle Shirtwaist Factory fire of 1911 was one of the deadliest industrial disasters in New York City history. A total of 146 workers died, many of them young immigrant women.
Learn about the tragedy, the people who lost their lives, and the ghost stories that have become associated with the former factory site.
Mark Twain's House of Death
Mark Twain once lived in Greenwich Village, and the building where he stayed has acquired a reputation for strange occurrences.
Hear the story behind the nickname "House of Death" and the famous residents and reported paranormal activity connected to the building.
Jefferson Market Library
This distinctive Gothic Revival building was once a courthouse and jail. Today it is the Jefferson Market Library, but its past has contributed to plenty of ghost stories.
Among the legends is a reported apparition of a woman said to appear inside the building.
The House of Mayor Jimmy Walker
Greenwich Village was home to New York City Mayor Jimmy Walker, whose colorful life and political career became part of the neighborhood's history.
Hear the stories surrounding his former home and the reports of a ghostly presence associated with the building.
Aaron Burr's Carriage House
Aaron Burr, the third Vice President of the United States, had connections to Greenwich Village. Learn about Burr, his daughter Theodosia, and the history and legends surrounding his former carriage house.
Chumley's
Hidden behind an unmarked entrance, Chumley's became one of Greenwich Village's legendary speakeasies during Prohibition.
The restaurant and bar has a long history of writers, artists, and other colorful characters—and stories that its former owner may still make an appearance.
Marie's Crisis Cafe
Marie's Crisis Cafe occupies a building with a long and fascinating history. The location was once associated with a speakeasy and is also said to be where Thomas Paine died.
Today, it is one of Greenwich Village's most distinctive historic establishments and another stop where history and legend come together.
History, Legends & Ghost Stories
Greenwich Village has experienced centuries of dramatic events, making it fertile ground for ghost stories.
Disease outbreaks, fires, murders, political scandals, Prohibition-era activity, famous writers and artists, and the lives of ordinary New Yorkers have all contributed to the neighborhood's history.
Some stories are supported by historical records. Others have been passed down as local legends or reported paranormal encounters.
Your guide will explain the history behind the stories while giving you the opportunity to decide for yourself what you believe.
Tour Information
Meeting Point: Northwest corner of 6th Avenue and Waverly Place, in front of Waverly Restaurant (map)
Ending Point: Grove Street and 7th Avenue (map)
Duration: Approximately 2 hours
Distance: Approximately 1.5 miles
Tour Type: Walking tour
Pace: Easy
Accessibility: Wheelchair and stroller friendly. Please let us know in advance if you have accessibility needs.
Choose How You Pay
You can pay what you wish after the tour or choose to prepay when booking.
Our pay-what-you-wish option is available for individuals and small groups. A $5 booking fee applies when reserving online.
Larger groups may have different rates and booking requirements.
Ready to Explore Greenwich Village After Dark?
Join us for a Greenwich Village Ghost Tour and discover the stories, history, legends, and mysteries hidden throughout one of Manhattan's most historic neighborhoods.
Whether you're looking for classic ghost stories or a different way to experience Greenwich Village, you'll see the Village from a darker perspective.
BOOK YOUR GREENWICH VILLAGE GHOST TOUR
