Gramercy

A locked park and hushed streets

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The vibe

Gramercy is one of the calmest corners of Manhattan: tree-lined streets, brownstones, private clubs with Gothic Revival fronts and, at the centre, a fenced park that only a privileged few can open. Around it, Irving Place and Third Avenue offer century-old taverns and low-lit bars.

Good to know

Walk up Irving Place from Union Square: the neighbourhood's most charming street, with its stoops and small tables.

When to go

Late afternoon, to circle the park's railings as the light falls on the facades. Evenings for the old taverns of Irving Place.

Getting there

6 train to 23rd St; 4, 5, 6, L, N, Q, R and W trains to 14th St–Union Square, a few blocks away.

The story

How the neighbourhood came to be

The name is said to come from the Dutch Crommessie, describing a marsh and a small stream. In 1831, developer Samuel Ruggles drained the land, laid out lots around a private garden and invented a European-style square. Actors, writers and politicians moved in: actor Edwin Booth founded The Players on the park in 1888, and the National Arts Club occupies former governor Samuel Tilden's mansion.

Did you know?

1Gramercy Park is one of only two private parks in Manhattan: only residents of the surrounding buildings have a key.
2Pete's Tavern, opened in 1864, claims to be New York's oldest continuously operating bar; O. Henry is said to have written The Gift of the Magi there.
3The lots around the park were laid out in 1831 by Samuel Ruggles, who deeded the garden to the surrounding owners.

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