Aerial view of Washington Square Park, New York City

Aerial view of Washington Square Park, New York City

A 77-foot marble arch honoring President George Washington greets visitors to this park in lower Manhattan, a gathering place for locals and tourists alike. It was made a military parade ground in 1826 and it’s been a public park since 1871. Periodically during its history, the park has served as a hub for writers, musicians, and bohemians and has often been a site of civil unrest. The square serves as the backdrop for Henry James’ 1880 novel ‘Washington Square’ and more recently was featured in the Will Smith film ‘I am Legend.’