Happy Anniversary to us! Officially incorporated in October of 2012, the Conservancy has been celebrating this milestone all year by looking back at a decade of support for the Park. You’ve helped us achieve so many incredible things for Washington Square Park, but much of what makes it special is intangible. So we wanted to hear from YOU what you love most about this iconic space. We sat down with 10 amazing Parkies who told us a few of their favorite things about Washington Square Park.

#1 Park Mom – Melissa

My favorite thing about the Park is the ambient sounds—music playing, children laughing, chatter among friends new and old, birds chirping—that all create a beautiful balance of excitement, energy, and peacefulness. 

#2 Living Monument – Monty

I like it quieter. It’s sometimes quiet now. But whatever is going on, every time I’ve been sitting here it’s always this beautiful thing.

#3 State Senator Brad Hoylman

There’s so much that’s favorite to me in Washington Square Park. Along with the people who illuminate the Park every day, I think it’s the park’s place in American history that excites me the most, dating back to when early Native Americans first used Minetta Brook. Whether it’s the Revolutionary War, the Gilded Age, the labor movement, Bohemian counterculture and Vietnam protests, AIDS and queer activism, or demonstrations against police brutality and for abortion rights, Washington Square Park has been a significant backdrop for much of our nation’s history. There are few other places in the world with such an impressive pedigree!

#4 WSPC Photography Volunteer – Fern

My favorite thing about the park is the arch. Firstly it’s iconic. It symbolizes Greenwich Village and NYC. So many life cycle events are photographed there. Brides and grooms. Birthdays. Graduates. Tourists. And on a personal note, our son’s bar mitzvah photos! It’s always a happy place for me.

#5 Park Worker – Norma

My favorite thing about the Park is the circle plaza around the fountain! Everything happens there, when I’m standing in it, especially in the middle of the fountain when I clean it, I feel like I’m in the middle of the universe. 

#6 Donor – Leon

The Park has been an important part of my life for nearly 60 years. It brings joy to myself and my wife, Joan, in all seasons. We love strolling through the space and observing the life happening around us.

#7 WSPC Program Fellow – Victoria

My favorite thing about the park is the fashion! I love seeing the different aesthetics and styles on people of all ages, especially because it often inspires me when I’m getting dressed every day. 

#8 Dog Mom – Eileen

The dog runs are my happy place! I love taking my own dogs there and enjoying being in this beautiful space with them.

#9 Dosa Man – Thiru

My favorite thing about the Park is me! I love being here, feeding people and making new friends.

#10 WSP Administrator – Will

My favorite thing about the Park is probably a special administrator perk: the view from the top of the arch. Part of my job is to monitor the top of the arch to stay ahead of any potential maintenance issues, but while up there I love taking advantage of the breathtaking view that very few get to enjoy.