Union Square

The Basics

As one of New York’s most frequented landmarks, Union Square is a stop on most hop-on hop-off bus tours, which allow visitors to explore at their own pace without the hassle of navigating. Walking tours offer an in-depth look at the area’s history and architecture and often include Gramercy Park, Madison Square Park, and the Flatiron District.

Food tours reveal Union Square’s hidden gems and popular establishments and typically include a range of food tastings. In addition to the area’s famous pizza joints, the year-round farmers market is a popular stop on Union Square food tours.

Things to Know Before You Go

• Union Square is a must for people watchers and history buffs.

• Public restrooms are located on the northeast side of the park.

• The area offers plenty of food options, from takeaway cafés to upscale restaurants.

• Wear comfortable walking shoes, as the park and surrounding neighborhoods are best explored on foot.

• Visit the MTA’s website for updates on subway detours and schedule changes.

How to Get There

Union Square is easily accessible using New York City’s comprehensive public transit system. Subway trains 4, 5, 6, N, Q, R, W, and L all stop at Union Square, unless specified otherwise by the Metropolitan Transit Authority. If traveling by car, a garage is located on 14th Street between 5th Avenue and University Place, and street parking is metered.

When to Get There

Union Square is busiest May to September, when locals and visitors take to the park’s green spaces and benches to eat, chat, and people watch. On Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays, the park teems with shoppers at the Union Square Greenmarket, where small vendors sell fresh cheese, bread, produce, baked goods, and flowers. The annual Holiday Market, from mid-November to late December, offers a range of unique gifts made by local artisans and food vendors.

Lunch at the Farmers Market

The longest-standing farmers market in the city, Union Square Greenmarket offers plenty of options for lunch in the park. It can be overwhelming to navigate the 70 or so vendors that set up shop every Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday. Here’s a sample of treats to pick up for your picnic lunch (varies seasonally): sourdough baguettes, fresh creamy goat cheese, homemade fig jam, heirloom tomatoes, sweet berries, and local wine.

Ways to explore

As one of New York’s most frequented landmarks, Union Square is a stop on many hop-on hop-off bus tours, which allow you to explore the city at your own pace without the hassle of navigating. Walking tours offer an in-depth look at the area’s history and architecture, and often include Gramercy Park, Madison Square Park, and the Flatiron District. Another great way to explore is on a food tour that highlights Union Square’s top culinary spots; tours often include tastings of local favorites such as pizza, bagels, and grilled sandwiches.

Accessibility

Union Square is wheelchair-accessible with wide and flat paths.

Age limits

None

What to pack

Contactless payment, refillable water bottle, sun protection in warmer months

What to wear

Comfortable footwear, hat in warm weather, layers

Not allowed

Littering, drinking in parks and public spaces, feeding wildlife

Amenities

Market stalls, dog park, shops, public restroom

Address

Union Square is in Lower Manhattan at 14th Street, where Broadway and Park Avenue South meet. It’s easily reached by subway, bus, bike, or on foot, and many guided walking tours include it as a key stop.

Driving

Driving to Union Square is possible, with a parking garage available on 14th Street between 5th Avenue and University Place, plus metered street parking nearby. However, driving isn’t recommended due to heavy traffic and limited spaces—public transport is easier.

Public transportation

Union Square is easily accessible via the subway, served by the 4, 5, 6, N, Q, R, W, and L trains, making it convenient to reach from many parts of the city.

Best times to visit

Arrive in the morning near market opening time for the freshest produce, smaller crowds, and the best chance to explore stalls before they get busy.

Best days to visit

Plan your trip to coincide with the Union Square Greenmarket, which takes place on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays. Vendors sell everything from fresh produce to cheese, bread, baked goods, and flowers.

Best months to visit

Union Square is busiest from May to September, when locals and visitors enjoy the park’s green spaces, benches, and lively atmosphere for eating, chatting, and people-watching.

Special events

The Holiday Market is held from mid-November to late December, featuring delicious food, gifts, and plenty of festive spirit.