Claire, I LOVE the location of the Washington Square hotel but the reviews on tripadvisor are really very mixed. I found one particular review interesting in which the poster said you really want a DELUXE room rather than a superior. Here's what he says

http://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowUserR..._New_York.html

At 1 Fifth Ave. you'll find Otto's, a good pizza place in nice surroundings. You're right at Washington Square Park. Can't help on the comedy club.

thanks mclaurie--i read the reviews and got a good laugh out of the last one. wash square hotel will be splendid compared to where we stayed 2 years ago--amsterdam inn--in a "converted" brownstone--staff very helpful, but the place was kind of a dump.

not planning on spending a lot of time in the room--so don't really care as long as it's clean, safe and in a good location.

just checked on comedy clubs--no one under 18 admitted, so my son will be disappointed..trying to find another show--or go for the cheap tickets at the booth where you buy tickets for shows that same day.

I was fine with the Washington Sq. Hotel the few nights I stayed there awhile back. It's funky but clean. Location is great, much better than the Gershwin location.

As for a show, how about the Blue Man Group? Or have you seen it?

There have been several previous discussions here about comedy clubs that allow kids/teens. I seem to recall the Comedy Cellar (which is not far from your hotel) does allow teens. Here's the website. Give them a call.

http://www.comedycellar.com/

The Upright Citizens Brigade is another that might allow teens.

I wish I could find some of those older threads.