Columbus Circle
A dynamic urban plaza and shopping hub, serving as a gateway to Central Park and a vibrant holiday market destination.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Festive lights & market buzz
Columbus Circle
Best Time
Festive lights & market buzz
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A dynamic urban plaza and shopping hub, serving as a gateway to Central Park and a vibrant holiday market destination.
"Amazing architecture work on buildings surrounding Columbus Circle. Great place to have lunch."
🎯 Holiday Market Must-Dos
Don't miss Tanghulu, Truffle Fries, and Czech Eggs at the holiday market!
👟 Comfortable Shoes Essential
You'll be doing a lot of walking, especially if exploring Central Park.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Columbus Circle Holiday Market
Columbus Circle
A festive winter wonderland with unique crafts, gifts, and delicious food from local vendors.
The Shops at Columbus Circle
Time Warner Center
Upscale shopping and dining with stunning views of Central Park and the city skyline.
Columbus Monument
Center of Columbus Circle
A prominent landmark honoring Christopher Columbus, surrounded by a beautiful fountain.
Central Park South Entrance
Adjacent to Columbus Circle
Direct access to iconic Central Park attractions like Wollman Rink and The Pond.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating Columbus Circle
Beyond the Monument
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Holiday Market Must-Dos
Don't miss Tanghulu, Truffle Fries, and Czech Eggs at the holiday market!
👟 Comfortable Shoes Essential
You'll be doing a lot of walking, especially if exploring Central Park.
📱 Capture the Views
The Mandarin Oriental offers incredible golden hour views of Central Park.
🚗 Public Transport Recommended
Parking is tough; the subway is your best bet for easy access.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Holiday Market Must-Dos
Don't miss Tanghulu, Truffle Fries, and Czech Eggs at the holiday market!
👟 Comfortable Shoes Essential
You'll be doing a lot of walking, especially if exploring Central Park.
📱 Capture the Views
The Mandarin Oriental offers incredible golden hour views of Central Park.
🚗 Public Transport Recommended
Parking is tough; the subway is your best bet for easy access.
🛍️ Shop 'til You Drop
The Shops at Columbus Circle offer a wide range of stores for all your shopping needs.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Columbus Circle is praised for its stunning architecture, vibrant holiday market, and convenient access to Central Park. Visitors appreciate the upscale shopping and diverse dining options. However, some reviews mention the controversial nature of the Columbus monument and the potential for high crowds during peak times.
"The statue has to come down. Saw the documentary where you all were defending it like he was your grandfather, even if he were he was a genocidal tyrant so maybe stop being such snowflakes and learn to respect other people without feeling attacked by the truth."
Tess Dornfeld
"Amazing architecture work on buildings surrounding Columbus Circle.great place to have lunch if working downtown, or just want a little visual stimulation. The water fountain is very nice and bench around it makes for a nice viewing of the surrounding buildings."
Timothy Taber
"Syracuse Arts & Crafts Festival
July 25 - 27, 2025"
Donna M Gullotto LMT
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Columbus Circle is easily accessible by subway. The 1, A, B, C, and D trains all stop at the 59th Street-Columbus Circle station. Buses also serve the area frequently.
Parking is available in garages around Columbus Circle, but it can be expensive and fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons. The Shops at Columbus Circle offer parking for shoppers.
From JFK or LGA, you can take a taxi, rideshare, or public transport. The subway is often the most cost-effective option, involving a transfer to reach the 59th Street-Columbus Circle station.
If you're staying in Midtown Manhattan, Columbus Circle is within walking distance. It's also a great starting point for exploring Central Park on foot.
Yes, there are bike lanes in the vicinity, and Citi Bike stations are available, making it a bike-friendly area for exploring.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Columbus Circle itself is a public plaza and monument, so no tickets are required to visit. Entry to The Shops at Columbus Circle is also free.
Columbus Circle is accessible 24/7 as a public space. The Shops at Columbus Circle have specific operating hours, typically from 10 AM to 9 PM daily, but it's best to check their official website for the most current times.
Entry to the Columbus Circle Holiday Market is free. You only pay for any purchases you make from the vendors. 
Yes, Columbus Circle hosts various events, most notably the popular Columbus Circle Holiday Market during the winter.
Absolutely! Columbus Circle is a major gateway to Central Park, offering direct access to its southern paths and attractions.
🍽️ 🛍️ Shopping & Dining
The Shops at Columbus Circle, located in the Time Warner Center, feature a mix of high-end and popular retailers, including fashion, home goods, and specialty stores.
Yes, Columbus Circle offers a range of dining options, from casual eateries to upscale restaurants within The Shops at Columbus Circle, including Masa and Porterhouse.
The holiday market boasts a diverse culinary selection, with vendors offering everything from truffle fries and tanghulu to bao buns and waffles.
Yes, Shake Shack has a location at Columbus Circle, making it a popular spot for a quick and delicious meal.
You'll find several coffee options, including Starbucks and a Capital One Cafe which offers free drinks and events.
📸 📸 Photography & Views
Capture the Columbus Monument with the fountain, the impressive architecture of the Time Warner Center, and the entrance to Central Park. Golden hour offers particularly beautiful light.
Yes, Columbus Circle provides direct views and access to the southern end of Central Park. The Mandarin Oriental hotel offers panoramic views from its lobby lounge.
Columbus Circle is beautifully lit at night, especially during the holiday season with the market stalls and surrounding buildings illuminated.
Golden hour (shortly after sunrise or before sunset) provides stunning light for photos of the circle, the park, and the city skyline.
Generally, photography is allowed in public spaces like Columbus Circle. However, be mindful of private property within The Shops at Columbus Circle and any specific event rules.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Within The Shops at Columbus Circle, you can find casual dining options like Shake Shack that are generally kid-approved. Consider a visit to the Central Park Zoo, which is a short walk from the circle, for an engaging animal encounter. The open space of the circle itself allows kids to move around safely, and the fountain can be a point of interest.
🛍️ Shoppers & Foodies
+2Beyond the market, the Time Warner Center houses some of NYC's most acclaimed restaurants, including Masa and Porterhouse, perfect for a special meal. Casual favorites like Shake Shack and various cafes ensure there's something for every palate and budget. Don't miss the opportunity to explore the culinary offerings that make this area a gastronomic hub.
📸 Photographers & View Seekers
+1During the holiday season, the illuminated market stalls create a magical ambiance perfect for evening photography. The direct access to Central Park also allows for capturing the contrast between the urban environment and the natural beauty of the park. Remember to visit during different times of day to experience the changing light and moods of the area.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Columbus Circle Holiday Market Experience
+1Foodies will rejoice with a diverse array of culinary delights. Popular vendors often include those selling truffle fries, tanghulu, bao buns, and waffles. It's a great spot to grab a warm drink and a bite while browsing the stalls. The market's central location makes it an easy stop before or after exploring Central Park or nearby Fifth Avenue shopping.
+1While the market is a major draw, remember it can get quite crowded, especially on weekends and evenings. For a more relaxed experience, consider visiting on a weekday morning. The market's charm lies in its intimate scale compared to larger holiday markets, offering a more personal shopping experience.
Shopping and Dining at The Shops at Columbus Circle
The dining scene at Columbus Circle is equally impressive, with renowned restaurants offering diverse cuisines and spectacular views. Masa, a high-end sushi restaurant, and Porterhouse, known for its steaks, are among the notable establishments. For more casual options, Shake Shack is a popular choice, and various cafes provide spots to relax and refuel.
+1Beyond shopping and dining, the Time Warner Center itself is an architectural marvel. Its design offers stunning panoramic views of Central Park and the city skyline, particularly from the upper floors and the Mandarin Oriental hotel's lobby lounge. This makes it a destination not just for consumption, but also for appreciating the urban landscape.
Columbus Circle as a Gateway to Central Park
+1The transition from the bustling city streets of Columbus Circle into the serene landscapes of Central Park is quite striking. The park offers a welcome respite with its walking paths, green spaces, and opportunities for people-watching. Whether you're looking for a quiet moment of reflection or an active afternoon, Central Park provides a diverse range of experiences accessible directly from Columbus Circle.
For those looking to explore further into the park, consider renting a bike or using a Citi Bike, as stations are readily available. The proximity of Columbus Circle to other Midtown attractions also makes it convenient to combine a park visit with other sightseeing activities.
Social
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