Union Square, New York City - New York in the snow.
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Union Square New York City

4.6
·491k reviews·New York, United States

A dynamic NYC hub featuring iconic markets, the Climate Clock, and endless dining and shopping.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Thursdays & Fridays (Daytime)

Support local vendors at the market

CrowdMedium
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Union Square, New York City - New York in the snow.

Union Square New York City

Best Time

Thursdays & Fridays (Daytime)

Support local vendors at the market

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A dynamic NYC hub featuring iconic markets, the Climate Clock, and endless dining and shopping.

4.6
(491k reviews)

"Union Square is a vibrant crossroads, buzzing with markets, culture, and a lively spirit."

Vertical photo
TIP

🛍️ Explore the Markets

Check @urbanspacemarkets for Union Square Night Market dates (Thurs/Fri, summer/fall). Great for foodies!

❄️ Holiday Market Magic

The Union Square Holiday Market usually opens mid-November. Perfect for festive shopping and gifts!

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Union Square Farmers Market

Union Square Farmers Market

Union Square Park

A vibrant hub for fresh produce, artisanal foods, and local crafts. A true taste of New York's bounty.

Union Square Holiday Market

Union Square Holiday Market

Union Square Park

Experience festive cheer with unique gifts, crafts, and delicious treats from local vendors.

The Climate Clock

The Climate Clock

North side of Union Square Park

A striking public art installation tracking climate change progress and solutions. A thought-provoking landmark.

Planning Your Visit

Navigating Union Square's Buzz

Union Square is a vibrant hub, especially during its popular markets. Expect crowds, particularly on weekends and during holiday seasons. Plan your visit to avoid peak times if you prefer a more relaxed experience. Consider checking event schedules beforehand to make the most of your visit.

Market Magic & Seasonal Delights

Union Square is renowned for its seasonal markets, from the bustling farmers market to the enchanting holiday market. These are prime spots for unique finds and local flavors. Keep an eye on the @urbanspacemarkets schedule for specific dates and vendor lineups to plan your shopping and dining.

Best Times

When
Thursdays & Fridays (Daytime)
Why
Support local vendors at the market
Crowd
Medium
When
Holiday Season Evenings
Why
Festive atmosphere and unique gifts
Crowd
High
When
Weekday Mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, relaxed park stroll
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

indecisive and now my hands are cold and need a little drink so I’ll decide in a cafe #nyc #newyork
@annabarger
145.9K likes • 929.9K views

🛍️ Explore the Markets

Check @urbanspacemarkets for Union Square Night Market dates (Thurs/Fri, summer/fall). Great for foodies! TikTok+1

❄️ Holiday Market Magic

The Union Square Holiday Market usually opens mid-November. Perfect for festive shopping and gifts! TikTok

What do you think about the massive climate clock in union square? #climateclock #unionsquare #climatesolutions #fifthwall #climatecountdown
@fifthwallvc
26.2K likes • 1M views
‼️CitizenCam live from Union Square, NY. Thousands of people swarm the area as #NYPD dispatches more officers. #newyork #nyc #newyorkcity #unionsquare #kaicenat
citizen
47.7K likes • 4.4M views

⏰ Climate Clock Views

See the impactful Climate Clock in Union Square. A reminder of our planet's future. TikTok

☕ Cozy Cafe Stops

Grab coffee at Think Coffee or Breads Bakery for a break. Breads babka is a must-try! Reddit

NYC NIGHT MAKRET! 🎉 🍴 @urbanspacemarkets is back with their Union Square Night Markets happening every Thursday and Friday this summer and you need to come out and support! not only is it a fun place ...
@lindanguyenlee
17.8K likes • 177.5K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🛍️ Explore the Markets

Check @urbanspacemarkets for Union Square Night Market dates (Thurs/Fri, summer/fall). Great for foodies! TikTok+1

❄️ Holiday Market Magic

The Union Square Holiday Market usually opens mid-November. Perfect for festive shopping and gifts! TikTok

⏰ Climate Clock Views

See the impactful Climate Clock in Union Square. A reminder of our planet's future. TikTok

☕ Cozy Cafe Stops

Grab coffee at Think Coffee or Breads Bakery for a break. Breads babka is a must-try! Reddit

📚 Browse The Strand

A legendary bookstore nearby. Perfect for book lovers seeking a quiet escape. Reddit

🚇 PATH Train Access

PATH trains connect NJ to Manhattan. Use MetroCard, same cost as subway. TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.6
(491k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Union Square is celebrated as a vibrant, central hub with a fantastic array of markets and dining options. Visitors love its lively atmosphere, diverse vendors, and convenient transit access. Some find it can get very crowded, especially during peak market times and holidays.

What People Like

Bustling markets
Great food variety
Central location

What People Dislike

Can be crowded

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Union Square is a major transit hub. You can easily reach it via multiple subway lines (L, N, Q, R, W, 4, 5, 6) which all stop at the Union Square-14th Street station. The PATH train also serves Union Square, connecting New Jersey to Manhattan, and accepts MetroCards just like the subway. TikTokReddit

Absolutely! Union Square is one of NYC's most accessible areas, served by numerous subway lines and the PATH train, making it a convenient destination from various parts of the city and New Jersey. Reddit

The best commute depends on your starting point. Subways are generally the most efficient. If coming from New Jersey, the PATH train is a great option. Buses also serve the area. Reddit

While there isn't a direct ferry to Union Square itself, you can take ferries to nearby piers and then connect via subway or a short walk. For example, NY Waterway ferries can take you to locations from which you can reach Union Square. Reddit

The main intersection for Union Square Park is 14th Street and Union Square West/East, New York, NY. It's a central point in Manhattan. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Union Square Park itself is a public space and does not require tickets for entry. You can freely explore the park and its amenities. Reddit

Entry to the Union Square Farmers Market and the Holiday Market is generally free. You only pay for any purchases you make from the vendors. TikTok+1

Market hours vary seasonally. The Farmers Market typically runs year-round on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays. The Holiday Market is a seasonal event, usually running from mid-November through Christmas Eve. The Night Market often operates on Thursdays and Fridays during warmer months. Always check @urbanspacemarkets for current schedules. TikTok+1

While the park is free, specific events held within or around Union Square might require tickets. It's best to check the official Union Square Partnership website or event organizers for details on ticketed events. Reddit

No, the Climate Clock is a public art installation located in Union Square Park and is free for everyone to view. TikTok

🍽️ 🛍️ Shopping & Dining

Union Square offers a mix of retail options. You'll find popular chains, department stores like Nordstrom Rack, and unique boutiques. The surrounding streets also host a variety of shops catering to different tastes. Reddit

Union Square boasts a fantastic food scene. From the farmers market's fresh produce to diverse restaurants like Gramercy Tavern, ABCv, and casual spots like Breads Bakery for babka, there are options for every craving. Reddit+1

Yes, shopping near Union Square is excellent. Beyond the markets, you can explore stores like Nordstrom Rack and various boutiques. The area is well-connected for exploring further shopping districts. Reddit

For quick bites, consider Capital One Cafe, Think Coffee, or Breads Bakery for their famous babka. Whole Foods on Houston Street is also a popular choice for grab-and-go meals. Reddit

The Union Square Night Market features over 35 rotating small business food vendors, offering a diverse range of culinary delights. TikTok

🎫 🌳 Onsite Experience

Union Square Park is a lively public space perfect for people-watching, enjoying street performers, visiting the farmers market, or simply relaxing. It's also home to the Climate Clock. TikTokReddit

Definitely! You can browse The Strand bookstore, explore the farmers market, shop at Fishs Eddy, or enjoy a coffee and stroll through nearby Gramercy Park. Reddit

The Climate Clock is a prominent public art installation in Union Square that tracks humanity's progress on key climate solutions and highlights the urgency of the climate crisis. TikTok

Yes, the Union Square Holiday Market and the regular farmers market are excellent places to find unique, handcrafted gifts from local artisans and vendors. TikTok

Union Square is a prime spot for people-watching, with a constant flow of diverse individuals, street performers, and market-goers creating a dynamic atmosphere. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

Iconic spots include the Climate Clock, the bustling farmers market stalls, the historic arch, and the general vibrant street life. Capture the energy of the park and its surroundings. TikTok

Absolutely! The Union Square Holiday Market transforms the area into a festive wonderland, offering plenty of opportunities for beautiful holiday-themed photos. TikTok

Golden hour (shortly after sunrise or before sunset) can offer beautiful light. However, the park's energy is often best captured during bustling market hours or lively evenings. TikTok

Yes, you are welcome to take photos of the Climate Clock. It's a popular landmark for visitors and locals alike. TikTok

Generally, casual photography for personal use is permitted. However, commercial photography or filming may require permits. Always be mindful of others' privacy. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Union Square offers a family-friendly atmosphere with plenty to engage children. The Farmers Market is a great place for kids to discover new fruits and vegetables, and the Holiday Market provides a magical experience with festive decorations and unique toys. TikTok The park itself offers open space for them to run around, and street performers often capture their attention. Consider a visit to The Strand bookstore for a quiet, engaging activity. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

Union Square is a transit hub, making it an excellent base for budget travelers as it reduces transportation costs. You can find affordable eats at places like Think Coffee or Breads Bakery. Reddit Exploring the Farmers Market and the Climate Clock are free activities. For accommodation, staying near a major transit hub like Union Square can save money on daily travel. Reddit+1

couples

Union Square offers a romantic backdrop, especially during the Holiday Market or a leisurely stroll through the park. Enjoy a delightful dining experience at acclaimed restaurants like Gramercy Tavern or ABCv. Reddit For a unique date, consider browsing the shelves at The Strand bookstore or enjoying a coffee at a cozy cafe before exploring the vibrant neighborhood. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Union Square Markets: A Seasonal Guide

Union Square is a magnet for market lovers, especially thanks to @urbanspacemarkets. The Union Square Farmers Market is a year-round institution, offering fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, baked goods, and more every Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday. It's a fantastic place to sample local flavors and support regional farmers. TikTok

During the holiday season, the Union Square Holiday Market transforms the park into a festive wonderland. Typically opening around mid-November, it features a curated selection of over 150 vendors selling unique gifts, handmade crafts, jewelry, and delicious seasonal treats. It's a prime spot for finding one-of-a-kind presents and soaking in the holiday spirit. TikTok

For a more contemporary vibe, the Union Square Night Market (often held on Thursdays and Fridays during warmer months) showcases over 35 rotating small business food vendors. This market is perfect for a casual evening out, offering a diverse array of culinary options from local entrepreneurs. TikTok+1

The Climate Clock: A Beacon of Awareness

Dominating the north side of Union Square Park is the Climate Clock, a powerful public art installation that serves as a constant reminder of the urgency of the climate crisis. This dynamic display tracks two key metrics: the remaining time we have to transition to renewable energy and the progress made on critical climate solutions. TikTok

More than just a countdown, the Climate Clock aims to inspire action and foster dialogue about climate change. It's a thought-provoking landmark that encourages visitors to consider their role in creating a sustainable future. Seeing it in the heart of Manhattan adds a significant layer of civic engagement to the bustling square. TikTok

Navigating Union Square: Transit and Beyond

Union Square is a major transportation nexus in Manhattan, making it incredibly accessible. The Union Square-14th Street subway station is a hub for numerous lines, including the L, N, Q, R, W, 4, 5, and 6 trains, connecting you to virtually every corner of the city. Reddit

For those traveling from New Jersey, the PATH train offers a convenient and affordable link to Manhattan, with a station directly serving Union Square. The PATH fare is comparable to a subway ride, and you can use your MetroCard. TikTokReddit

Beyond public transit, Union Square is a great starting point for exploring nearby neighborhoods. It's within walking distance of Greenwich Village, the East Village, and Gramercy Park, offering endless opportunities for discovery. Reddit

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