Vintage Neon Signs of the West Village Walking Tour

Walking through Greenwich Village in the evening, the neon signs give the streetscape an unmistakable ambiance. These vintage neon signs have advertised businesses since the 1920’s. Some have been beautifully restored; all are in perpetual danger, as are their small business homes. We will explore the signs of the West Village, where the streets and their displays are denser than in other neighborhoods, atmospherically heralding some of the most stalwart restaurants, bars, and small businesses. Our walk will take place at dusk when the signs look their best. We will learn about the signs’ histories, materials, designs, origins, and futures.

Thomas Rinaldi, our guide, is the author of New York Neon and co-author of Hudson Valley Ruins: Forgotten Landmarks of an American Landscape. His photos have been exhibited and published broadly, including the New York Times, Wall Street Journal, CNN Online, Municipal Art Society, and more. With degrees are from Georgetown University and Columbia University, Tom has worked for the National Park Service, the New York State Office of Parks, Recreation & Historic Preservation, and more. He now works as an architectural designer.

This event is outdoors and sidewalk accessible