Tompkins Square Park has evolved substantially since the city took control of the 10.5-acre Alphabet City fixture in 1991, by evicting squatters and closing the park altogether while giving it a giant clean sweep in an effort to shore up the rampant crime and drug problem. In the process, the decision was made to tear-down one of the East Village’s most iconic ode to its gritty punk roots – The Bandshell, former host to rocker Jimi Hendrix and the Grateful Dead. Once a forum for political activists to engage in soapbox debates, the rebellious atmosphere of the space still lingers, but the park now appeals to a broader subset of eclectic locals, featuring street artists, radicals, fashionistas and those simply looking to use a sunny afternoon to engage in a spot of people watching. As the neighborhood has gentrified around it over time, many of the resident shady characters have been replaced by Russian models and young, stroller-pushing hipsters, but a suite of the original cast remain. Be sure to check out the events calendar over summer for info on the park’s music line up – the Charlie Parker Jazz Festival is a must-see in August. It’s still probably smart to steer clear of the inner workings of the square once the sun goes down, but there’s enough bars lining the perimeter to allow you to grab a window seat and still get a slice of the action. The park is decked-out with two playgrounds, handball and basketball courts and chess tables. Challenge one of the resident champions to a round for a few dollars if you’re up to it, and, win or lose, you’ll walk away with a fresh perspective on life.
