This hotel has been a haven for writers and artists for more than a century. Dylan Thomas lived here for a while and Joan Baez and Bob Dylan – then the “king and queen of folk music” – lived together in Room 305, as immortalized by Baez in her 1975 song Diamonds and Rust, in which she recalls Dylan: smiling out the window Of that crummy hotel Over Washington Square.
Bo Diddley stayed here every time he played in New York City. He even did a live set in the lobby for their 100th anniversary.
In 1963, 18 year old Michelle Phillips co-wrote California Dreamin’ and Creeque Alley with her then husband John while living here.
In 1964, when they came to the U.S. for their first U.S.tour, The Rolling Stones used Washington Square Hotel as their home base.
Before forming the Byrds, Roger McGuinn was living in room 707 here while working as a back-up singer/musician for Bobby Darin and writing songs at the famous Brill Building.
Canadian folkies Ian & Sylvia take up residence at the hotel and write the hits Four Strong Winds and You Were On My Mind.
Washington Square Hotel
103 Waverly Place
New York NY 10111
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