Union Square New York City
A dynamic NYC hub featuring iconic markets, the Climate Clock, and endless dining and shopping.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Support local vendors at the market
Union Square New York City
Best Time
Support local vendors at the market

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A dynamic NYC hub featuring iconic markets, the Climate Clock, and endless dining and shopping.
"Union Square is a vibrant crossroads, buzzing with markets, culture, and a lively spirit."
🛍️ 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!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

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

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
Market Magic & Seasonal Delights
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🛍️ 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!
⏰ Climate Clock Views
See the impactful Climate Clock in Union Square. A reminder of our planet's future.
☕ Cozy Cafe Stops
Grab coffee at Think Coffee or Breads Bakery for a break. Breads babka is a must-try!
Tips
from all over the internet
🛍️ 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!
⏰ Climate Clock Views
See the impactful Climate Clock in Union Square. A reminder of our planet's future.
☕ Cozy Cafe Stops
Grab coffee at Think Coffee or Breads Bakery for a break. Breads babka is a must-try!
📚 Browse The Strand
A legendary bookstore nearby. Perfect for book lovers seeking a quiet escape.
🚇 PATH Train Access
PATH trains connect NJ to Manhattan. Use MetroCard, same cost as subway.
What Travellers Say
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
What People Dislike
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
🎫 🎫 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.
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.
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.
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.
No, the Climate Clock is a public art installation located in Union Square Park and is free for everyone to view.
🍽️ 🛍️ 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.
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.
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.
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.
The Union Square Night Market features over 35 rotating small business food vendors, offering a diverse range of culinary delights.
🎫 🌳 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.
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.
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.
Yes, the Union Square Holiday Market and the regular farmers market are excellent places to find unique, handcrafted gifts from local artisans and vendors.
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.
📸 📸 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.
Absolutely! The Union Square Holiday Market transforms the area into a festive wonderland, offering plenty of opportunities for beautiful holiday-themed photos.
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.
Yes, you are welcome to take photos of the Climate Clock. It's a popular landmark for visitors and locals alike.
Generally, casual photography for personal use is permitted. However, commercial photography or filming may require permits. Always be mindful of others' privacy.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
couples
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Union Square Markets: A Seasonal Guide
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.
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.
The Climate Clock: A Beacon of Awareness
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.
Navigating Union Square: Transit and Beyond
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.
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.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit