Historic architecture, bars, pubs, clubs, theaters and live-music venues – Leidseplein has a bit of everything. The square and its surrounding streets are always busy, especially since several tram lines converge here. After dark, Leidseplein is a major nightlife hub that gets thronged by a mainstream crowd of party lovers (more tourists than locals). Pavement cafes at the northern end are perfect for people-watching.
On the square's eastern side, farmers would once leave their horses and carts at the Leidsepoort (Leiden Gate) before entering town; it was demolished in 1870. The strip of greenery with large chestnut trees on the other side of the Singelgracht is called Leidsebosje (Leiden Wood).