The Vessel
A climbable honeycomb structure in Hudson Yards offering unique city views and an interactive architectural experience.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
The Vessel
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A climbable honeycomb structure in Hudson Yards offering unique city views and an interactive architectural experience.
"A truly unique climbable structure with breathtaking views, a must-see in NYC!"
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be climbing many stairs! Comfortable footwear is essential for enjoying the experience.
📸 Capture Unique Angles
The Vessel's design offers endless photo opportunities. Experiment with different perspectives.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Honeycomb Structure
Hudson Yards
An intricate climbable structure of interconnected staircases offering unique perspectives of the city.
Panoramic City Views
Various levels of The Vessel
Ascend for breathtaking, ever-changing views of Manhattan and the surrounding cityscape.
Architectural Marvel
Hudson Yards Plaza
A striking piece of modern architecture by Thomas Heatherwick, a must-see for design enthusiasts.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Reopening and Safety Measures
Navigating the Structure
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be climbing many stairs! Comfortable footwear is essential for enjoying the experience.
📸 Capture Unique Angles
The Vessel's design offers endless photo opportunities. Experiment with different perspectives.
Help getting to the vessel
⏳ Allow Ample Time
Don't rush your visit. Take your time to explore the different levels and enjoy the views.
📱 Check for Updates
Hours and access can change. Always check the official website before your visit.
Dark Bramble tips
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be climbing many stairs! Comfortable footwear is essential for enjoying the experience.
📸 Capture Unique Angles
The Vessel's design offers endless photo opportunities. Experiment with different perspectives.
⏳ Allow Ample Time
Don't rush your visit. Take your time to explore the different levels and enjoy the views.
📱 Check for Updates
Hours and access can change. Always check the official website before your visit.
🌬️ Be Prepared for Wind
It can get breezy at higher levels, especially on windy days. A light jacket might be useful.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors are captivated by The Vessel's unique, climbable architecture and the stunning city views it offers. While some find the safety enclosures a bit intrusive, most appreciate the enhanced security. The experience is physically engaging and visually rewarding, making it a memorable stop in Hudson Yards.
"This is a fun activity for all ages. Wear comfortable shoes and appropriate clothing. Nice views and a cool breeze. The cost is reasonable. Unfortunately you cannot go to the top and some of the better viewing areas are covered in netting."
JOSEPH P.
"Such an awesome experience! If you're like me and don't really want to spend a lot on seeing NYC from higher buildings, this is a great alternative! Even though it's a couple of stairs there's also elevators, thr view is amazing from the top and the staff was organized and kind. The tickets were affordable for $10 each. Come visit!"
a
"Great design.
Beautiful honeycomb-shaped design structure that you can admire either at a distance or up close.
Lots of stairs and sometimes you gotta go down first before you go up.
Book your tickets in advance, slightly more by the gate and dynamic pricing in effect. (Time of day.)"
Jack Hung
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Vessel is located at Hudson Yards. You can reach it via the 7 train to the 34th Street-Hudson Yards station. Several bus lines also stop nearby.
Yes, there is parking available at Hudson Yards, but it can be expensive. Public transportation is often recommended.
It's a significant walk, about 20-30 minutes. You can also incorporate it with a walk along the High Line for a scenic route.
The most convenient way is often the 7 train. If you're coming from other parts of Manhattan, consider a subway transfer to connect to the 7 train.
Yes, ride-sharing services can drop you off at Hudson Yards, with designated areas for pick-up and drop-off.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, timed-entry tickets are required for The Vessel. While some are free, booking in advance is highly recommended, especially for peak times.
Tickets for The Vessel are often free, but there might be a small booking fee. It's best to check the official Hudson Yards website for the most current pricing and availability.
Tickets can be purchased online through the official Hudson Yards website. It's advisable to book in advance to secure your preferred time slot.
The Vessel's hours can vary seasonally and are subject to change. Always check the official Hudson Yards website for the most up-to-date opening and closing times.
Historically, The Vessel has offered free admission, though a small booking fee may apply. Check the official website for current ticketing policies.
📸 📸 Photography
Weekday mornings offer fewer crowds for unobstructed shots. Late afternoons provide beautiful golden hour light, and evenings showcase the city's illuminated skyline.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, commercial photography may require special permits. Always check the latest guidelines.
The intricate staircases, the views from the top levels, and the structure's unique geometric patterns are all highly photogenic.
Drone usage is typically prohibited in and around The Vessel and Hudson Yards due to safety and privacy regulations.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the scale of the structure. A telephoto lens can be useful for cityscapes from the top.
🎫 🚶 Onsite Experience
Most visitors spend about 1 to 1.5 hours exploring The Vessel, allowing time to climb, take photos, and enjoy the views.
The Vessel's design primarily involves stairs. While there are resting spots, it may not be fully accessible for all mobility challenges. Check official accessibility info.
The Vessel now features full-height mesh enclosures on all levels to enhance visitor safety.
Food and drinks are generally not permitted inside The Vessel itself to maintain its cleanliness and structural integrity.
Yes, Hudson Yards offers a vibrant shopping mall, diverse dining options, The Edge observation deck, and public art installations.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting during less crowded times to allow children more freedom to explore without feeling rushed. Pack snacks and water, as these are not permitted inside The Vessel itself. The surrounding Hudson Yards area also offers family-friendly dining and shopping options to round out your visit.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
For the best light, aim for weekday mornings to avoid crowds or visit during the golden hour before sunset. The city skyline at night from the upper levels is also spectacular. Be mindful of the mesh enclosures, which can sometimes affect shots, but they also offer a unique framing element.
🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
Combine your visit with exploring the free public spaces at Hudson Yards and walking the High Line, which offers fantastic city views without any cost. Pack your own snacks and water to save money on food and drinks within the complex.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Vessel's Unique Design and History
Opened in March 2019, The Vessel quickly became an iconic symbol of Hudson Yards. However, its history has also been marked by tragedy, leading to temporary closures for safety reviews. Following the implementation of enhanced safety measures, including full-height mesh enclosures, The Vessel has since reopened, allowing the public to once again climb and explore its captivating form.
The structure stands at 150 feet tall and offers a unique, interactive experience for visitors. Despite its controversial past, The Vessel remains a popular destination for its innovative architecture and the panoramic views it provides. It's a testament to modern design and a significant addition to the New York City skyline, inviting visitors to engage with art and architecture in a truly immersive way.
Navigating The Vessel: Tips for a Smooth Visit
Many visitors recommend visiting during off-peak hours, such as weekday mornings, to avoid large crowds and get the best photo opportunities. The late afternoon offers beautiful golden hour lighting, while evenings provide a dazzling view of the city lights.
While The Vessel itself is the main attraction, it's part of the larger Hudson Yards development, which includes shopping, dining, and other attractions like The Edge observation deck. Plan your visit to include these nearby amenities for a fuller experience of the area.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit