Washington Square Park in the Spring

Grab a bench and take a load off. You're in Washington Square Park.

It's barely a park -- don't expect too much grass here! -- and the ample construction fences mean it's not quite as relaxing as, say, Central Park or Madison Square Park. But take a seat, and then take a look around. It's a public park, but it is to New York University what the Oval is to Ohio State. And remember to stay til sunset, when the Washington Square Park Arch is all lit up.