Cafe Wha?: Greenwich Village's Legendary Music Hotspot
Experience the legendary Greenwich Village music scene at Cafe Wha?, where iconic artists like Dylan and Hendrix once graced the stage.
Cafe Wha? is a historic live music venue in the heart of Greenwich Village, New York City, known for launching the careers of iconic musicians and comedians like Bob Dylan, Jimi Hendrix, and Bruce Springsteen. This intimate basement club continues to host live music, offering a vibrant atmosphere and a taste of the Village's rich artistic history.
A brief summary to Cafe Wha?
- 115 MacDougal St, New York, Manhattan, New York, 10012, US
- +1212-254-3706
- Visit website
- Wednesday 8 pm-12 am
- Thursday 8 pm-2 am
- Friday 8 pm-2 am
- Saturday 8 pm-2 am
- Sunday 8 pm-1:30 am
Local tips
- Check the Cafe Wha? website for the performance schedule and ticket information, as shows and prices vary.
- Arrive early, especially on weekends, as the club is small and fills up quickly.
- Be prepared for a lively atmosphere and a mix of tourists and locals enjoying the music.
- Consider making a reservation, especially for larger groups, to secure a table.
Getting There
-
Subway
The closest subway station to Cafe Wha? is W 4 St-Wash Sq. Several lines serve this station, including the A, C, D, F, M, B, E, 1, and 2. From the station, walk north on 6th Avenue, then turn left onto MacDougal Street. Cafe Wha? will be on your right. A single subway ride costs $3.
-
Bus
Several bus lines stop near Cafe Wha?, including the M1, M20, M3, and M55. The nearest bus stops are 6th Ave & W 3rd St and 6 Av/W 3 St. From the bus stop, walk north on MacDougal Street to reach Cafe Wha?. A single bus ride also costs $3.
-
Taxi/Ride-Share
Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in Manhattan. A taxi from Times Square to Cafe Wha? typically costs $13 - $16 and takes about 5 minutes. A ride-share from Midtown Manhattan will likely cost between $15 and $25, depending on traffic and surge pricing.
-
Walking
Cafe Wha? is located in the heart of Greenwich Village and is easily accessible on foot from many nearby neighborhoods. From Washington Square Park, walk south on MacDougal Street. The club will be on your right. From Times Square, the walk is approximately 40 minutes.
Discover more about Cafe Wha?
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Washington Square Park
0.3 km
Discover the vibrant charm of Washington Square Park, a historic gem in Greenwich Village, perfect for relaxation, culture, and community spirit.
365 6th Ave
0.3 km
Discover the architectural beauty of 365 6th Ave in the heart of Manhattan's vibrant West Village, where history meets modern life.
Washington Square Arch
0.3 km
Explore the iconic Washington Square Arch, a historic landmark in Greenwich Village that captures the spirit and culture of New York City.
Church of St. Anthony of Padua
0.3 km
Discover the beauty and tranquility of the Church of St. Anthony of Padua, a historic landmark in Manhattan offering spiritual solace and stunning architecture.
Sheridan Square
0.4 km
Explore Sheridan Square in Manhattan, a vibrant cultural hub rich with history, art, and the spirit of the West Village, perfect for every tourist's itinerary.
Charlton-King-Vandam Historic District
0.4 km
Explore the Charlton-King-Vandam Historic District, a serene slice of Manhattan's history with stunning 19th-century architecture and rich cultural heritage.
Stonewall National Monument
0.4 km
Explore the rich history and vibrant culture at Stonewall National Monument, a cornerstone of LGBTQ+ heritage in New York City.
Washington Mews
0.4 km
Discover the enchanting Washington Mews, a charming cobblestone street in Manhattan, where history and beauty intertwine in New York City.
Friends Apartment Building
0.5 km
Visit the iconic Friends Apartment Building in Greenwich Village, where nostalgia meets the vibrant culture of New York City.
Christopher St
0.5 km
Explore the vibrant atmosphere of Christopher St in Manhattan, a historic street rich in LGBTQ+ culture and eclectic local businesses.
Greene St
0.5 km
Discover the artistic charm and vibrant atmosphere of Greene Street, a notable street in Manhattan perfect for shopping, dining, and exploring NYC culture.
The House Of Death
0.5 km
Explore the intriguing history and stories behind The House of Death, a fascinating historical landmark in the vibrant Greenwich Village of New York City.
Patchin Place
0.5 km
Experience the tranquility of Patchin Place, a literary landmark in Manhattan, where history and charm come together in a serene setting.
NoHo Historic District
0.6 km
Discover the rich history and vibrant culture of NoHo Historic District, where classic architecture meets modern creativity in the heart of Manhattan.
Ayer Building
0.6 km
Experience the architectural beauty and rich history of the Ayer Building in Manhattan, a must-visit for any history and architecture enthusiast.
Unmissable attractions to see
The Grisly Pear Greenwich Village
0.0 km
Experience a night of laughter and great drinks at The Grisly Pear, a captivating bar and comedy club in New York's Greenwich Village.
Greenwich Village Comedy Club
0.1 km
Experience the charm and laughter of Greenwich Village at the premier comedy club, where every show is a unique entertainment adventure.
Minetta Lane Theatre
0.1 km
Discover the enchanting Minetta Lane Theatre in Manhattan, where captivating performances and an intimate atmosphere await theater lovers in New York City.
Village Underground
0.1 km
Discover the vibrant comedy scene at Village Underground in Manhattan, where laughter and unforgettable performances await every night.
Provincetown Playhouse
0.1 km
Discover the Provincetown Playhouse, a historic concert hall in Manhattan offering an intimate atmosphere for unforgettable performances and cultural experiences.
Village Revival Records
0.1 km
Explore the vibrant music culture of New York City at Village Revival Records, where vinyl dreams come alive in the heart of Manhattan.
Father Demo Square
0.1 km
Explore the tranquility and culture of Father Demo Square, a hidden gem in the heart of Manhattan, offering lush greenery and local charm for every traveler.
Winston Churchill Square
0.2 km
Discover the tranquility of Winston Churchill Square, a serene garden oasis nestled in the vibrant heart of Manhattan, perfect for relaxation and reflection.
Alex's Tours
0.2 km
Experience the essence of New York City with personalized tours from Alex's Tours, guiding you through iconic sights and hidden gems.
Judson Memorial Church
0.2 km
Discover the artistic and spiritual heart of Manhattan at Judson Memorial Church, a cultural landmark in Washington Square.
Our Lady of Pompeii Church
0.2 km
Explore the beautiful Our Lady of Pompeii Church, a serene Catholic sanctuary nestled in vibrant Greenwich Village, New York City.
The Bitter End
0.2 km
Experience the heartbeat of New York's music scene at The Bitter End, a legendary venue that has hosted iconic artists for decades.
Essential places to dine
Sveta
0.3 km
Discover Sveta: A modern Ukrainian restaurant offering exquisite brunch and cocktails in NYC's vibrant heart.
One if by Land, Two if by Sea
0.3 km
Discover romance and fine American cuisine at One if by Land, Two if by Sea - New York City's iconic dining gem.
Carriage House NYC
0.5 km
Experience innovative New American cuisine in an elegant setting at Carriage House NYC - a culinary gem in Manhattan's vibrant dining scene.
Little Owl
0.5 km
Savor Mediterranean delights at Little Owl in NYC - where every meal is a celebration of flavor in an inviting atmosphere.
While We Were Young Kitchen & Cocktails
0.5 km
Discover the whimsical charm and innovative flavors at While We Were Young Kitchen & Cocktails in Manhattan's vibrant West Village.
Cowgirl
0.7 km
Experience authentic Southwestern cuisine in NYC at Cowgirl – where Tex-Mex meets Southern comfort food.
Gotham Restaurant
0.7 km
Experience the pinnacle of American fine dining at Gotham Restaurant in Manhattan, where culinary artistry meets elegance.
Pera Soho
0.8 km
Discover Pera Soho: A delightful Mediterranean dining experience offering exquisite Greek and Turkish dishes amidst the vibrant energy of New York City.
Balthazar
0.8 km
Experience authentic French cuisine at Balthazar - where Parisian charm meets New York City vibrancy.
Duane Park
0.9 km
Experience the allure of Duane Park: where gourmet dining meets captivating live performances in the heart of Manhattan.
The Musket Room
0.9 km
Experience exquisite New American cuisine amidst a tranquil garden setting at The Musket Room in Manhattan.
Cathédrale Restaurant
1.0 km
Experience exquisite French-Mediterranean cuisine at Cathédrale Restaurant in Manhattan's East Village - where every meal is a culinary journey.
The Black Ant
1.0 km
Discover The Black Ant: A unique fusion of authentic Mexican flavors and creative cocktails in the heart of Manhattan.
Beetle House
1.1 km
Discover Beetle House: A Tim Burton-inspired restaurant blending steakhouse classics with innovative vegan cuisine in NYC's East Village.
La Mercerie
1.1 km
Experience exquisite French cuisine at La Mercerie – Manhattan's top destination for brunch, cocktails, and fine dining.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Shop Untitled NYC
0.4 km
Discover unique and trendy fashion pieces at Shop Untitled NYC, a must-visit destination for style aficionados in New York City.
The Evolution Store
0.5 km
Explore The Evolution Store in Manhattan for unique gifts, natural wonders, and a perfect blend of art and science.
MoMA Design Store
0.8 km
Explore the MoMA Design Store in Manhattan for unique gifts, art books, and modern home goods inspired by contemporary design.
What Goes Around Comes Around
0.8 km
Explore timeless fashion at What Goes Around Comes Around, a vintage clothing store in Manhattan offering curated pieces for passionate shoppers.
Mystique Boutique NYC
0.9 km
Explore a unique selection of women's fashion at Mystique Boutique NYC, where style meets individuality in the heart of Manhattan.
Forbidden Planet
0.9 km
Explore Forbidden Planet, New York's premier comic book store, featuring an extensive selection of comics, collectibles, toys, and pop culture treasures.
IF SOHO NEW YORK
1.0 km
Explore high-end fashion at IF SOHO NEW YORK, where luxury meets the vibrant spirit of downtown Manhattan's retail scene.
Random Accessories
1.0 km
Explore Random Accessories - a unique gift shop in Manhattan filled with distinctive treasures, jewelry, and baby items for every traveler.
Angela's Vintage Boutique
1.1 km
Explore Angela's Vintage Boutique in Manhattan for unique vintage apparel and sustainable fashion treasures that tell a story.
NY Fashion & Gift
1.2 km
Explore the unique blend of fashion and gifts at NY Fashion & Gift, a must-visit destination in the heart of Manhattan.
SEPHORA
1.2 km
Explore beauty and luxury at SEPHORA in New York's Meatpacking District—your destination for cosmetics, skincare, and personalized services.
Cloak & Dagger
1.2 km
Discover unique vintage fashion, jewelry, and accessories at Cloak & Dagger, the must-visit boutique in Manhattan's vibrant shopping scene.
Assembly New York
1.5 km
Explore Assembly New York, a vibrant boutique offering unique clothing, accessories, and local designer finds in the heart of Manhattan.
Exit9 Gift Emporium
1.5 km
Discover unique gifts and souvenirs at Exit9 Gift Emporium, a must-visit shop in Manhattan for all your shopping needs.
Niu Shop
1.5 km
Discover unique gifts and local artistry at Niu Shop, a hidden gem in Manhattan's vibrant streets.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Up & Up
0.0 km
Discover The Up & Up, Manhattan's stylish cocktail bar offering inventive drinks in a chic and inviting atmosphere, perfect for any night out.
Little Branch
0.4 km
Experience the charm of Little Branch, Manhattan's upscale cocktail bar offering exquisite drinks and an intimate ambiance perfect for nightlife lovers.
Employees Only
0.6 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Employees Only, Manhattan's premier cocktail bar and lounge, renowned for its innovative drinks and delicious cuisine.
KGB Bar
1.0 km
Experience KGB Bar in Manhattan - a cultural haven blending art, literature, and vibrant nightlife with affordable drinks.
Burp Castle
1.0 km
Discover Burp Castle in Manhattan, a whimsical bar with a medieval theme offering an extensive selection of beers in a cozy atmosphere.
Mother's Ruin
1.1 km
Discover the lively atmosphere and creative cocktails at Mother's Ruin, a must-visit cocktail bar in the heart of Manhattan, NYC.
Sweet & Vicious
1.1 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Sweet & Vicious, a lively bar in Manhattan offering creative cocktails and a welcoming atmosphere.
Hidden Lane Bar
1.2 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Hidden Lane Bar in Manhattan, where crafted cocktails and lively events create unforgettable memories.
Juke Bar
1.3 km
Discover the lively Juke Bar in Manhattan, NYC, a must-visit cocktail bar offering expertly crafted drinks and a unique underground atmosphere.
Old Town Bar
1.3 km
Experience the charm of Old Town Bar, a historic gastropub in Manhattan offering delicious food, craft beers, and a lively atmosphere.
Death & Co East Village
1.4 km
Experience the finest in cocktail craftsmanship at Death & Co East Village, a cocktail bar that redefines nightlife in Manhattan.
Please Don't Tell
1.5 km
Explore the secretive allure of Please Don't Tell, a premier cocktail bar in New York City's East Village, renowned for its artisanal drinks and intimate ambiance.
Attaboy
1.5 km
Experience the art of cocktail crafting at Attaboy, Manhattan's premier cocktail bar known for its bespoke drinks and intimate ambiance.
Kind Regards
1.5 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at Kind Regards, a unique bar in Manhattan offering creative cocktails and an eclectic atmosphere.
The Copper Still Chelsea
1.5 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and exquisite cocktails at The Copper Still, Chelsea's premier bar and restaurant destination.
