During a weekend at New York University, because you are in New York City, there is so much to do. Of course, because NYU is so spread out, there are so many different options for entertainment. There is the Village, The Lower East Side, and of course Union Square. Options are limitless. While some cost more than others, there are also cheap if not free things to do.
1.) Comedy Clubs
Washington Square is adjacent to McDougal Street aka Comedy Avenue. Every three feet, there is a live standup comedy show going on. Some of the most popular ha ha havens include The Grisly Pear, Greenwich Village Comedy Club, The Village Lantern, and the world famous Comedy Cellar.
You might recognize some of the faces from TV, as regular acts include Louis CK, Jerry Seinfeld and Chris Rock, amongst others. And there are some up and comers who are either risky and brave or the true stars of tomorrow. Many clubs have a student discount and some are even free to NYU students with ID.
2.) Live Music
Just like the Village is home to great comedy, it is also home to folk music and jazz. As a matter of fact, Bob Dylan got his start there. Live music can be heard at The Village Lantern, The Blue Note, or almost any café on any night. The voices range from melodious to “unique,” but it’s always worth a listen.
Sometimes actors moonlighting as musicians, like Minnie Driver, might stop in to do a show or play a set. And you might catch some Broadway stars and MAC Award winning performers at piano bars like the Duplex. Again, some shows have student discounts or are free with an NYU ID.
3.) Drag Shows
The West Village is home to the Gay Rights Movement, and who can talk about this historical district without referring to the real royalty, our beautiful Drag Queens. Christopher Street, Bleeker, and Gay Street mean a quality drag show. Personal favorites of mine include the Duplex or The Stonewall Inn. Shows range from drag contests for beginners to all out pros. Don’t be surprised to see alumni from RuPaul’s drag race, and yes, ask them to read you.
4.) Downtown Theatre
Life below 14th Street means you have wandered into the land of performance art. Options are limitless, as burlesque legends have been known to perform in these parts. Additionally there are also Downtown Theatres like PS 122, Café WOW, La Mama, and 13 Street Rep.
Lest we forget the New York Theatre Workshop, original home of Rent and eternal guardian of Jonathan Larson’s Tony. Today’s avant garde is tomorrow’s mainstream. See these shows before they hit Broadway. There might be student discounts, and some shows might even be suggested donation, where you give what you can. I talk a little more about this in 5 Things You Should Do at NYU.
5.) Free Concerts At Washington Square Park
In the summer, there is a free concert series in Washington Square Park. Some performers are folk artists akin to the likes of Joan Baez and others of the 60s generation. Others are accomplished orchestras with amazing set lists, and opera singers who’s melodious voices fill the air with love and light.
This is perfect for making a night of it, or meandering in between the work of summer session on a hot night. Lest we not forget the street performers such as the acrobats, hoola hoopers, jugglers, and occasional ventriloquist. In the Big Apple, even a walk in the park can be entertaining.
On any given night, there is much to do in Gotham City as an NYU student or guest. Talent is everywhere, not just Broadway. So have fun, drink responsibly, and remember to tip your waitress/bartender.
If you’re thinking of heading to NYU for a visit, check out some of these spots and bring this list of questions to ask on your campus tour.