The Shops at Hudson Yards
The Shops at Hudson Yards are much more than just a shopping center on Manhattan’s modern West Side: they are the epicenter of luxury and innovation in New York, where avant-garde architecture meets commerce and gastronomy. Known for its spectacular design, curated selection of brands, and connection to unique attractions, this place represents the newest and most sophisticated face of the city. 🏙️
Located in the heart of the new Hudson Yards neighborhood, next to the High Line and the Hudson River, The Shops at Hudson Yards are an essential stop for those seeking a top-tier shopping and leisure experience. Whether it’s to enjoy its exclusive stores, its dining options, or simply to admire the architecture, its modern atmosphere makes it a memorable visit that combines style, culture, and contemporary urban life.
Why Visit The Shops at Hudson Yards?
Visiting The Shops at Hudson Yards means immersing yourself in the future of New York. It’s an iconic complex that combines high-end retail, chef-driven dining, and cultural attractions like few others in the world. International designer boutiques, acclaimed restaurants, public art installations, and an innovative energy that defines the new West Side converge here. ✨
Its importance lies in being the commercial core of the largest private real estate development in U.S. history. It’s a symbol of urban transformation and offers an integrated shopping and leisure experience, directly connected to icons like The Vessel and Edge. Furthermore, its climate-controlled interior design makes it a perfect destination year-round.
The Shops at Hudson Yards represent modern luxury and convenience. With over 100 stores ranging from high-fashion brands to more contemporary options, and a culinary offering that includes the famous Mercado Little Spain, this destination provides a complete and exclusive experience for the most discerning visitors. If you want to feel the pulse of the most current New York, this is your place.
How to Get to The Shops at Hudson Yards by Subway?
Main Stations
The main station providing direct access to The Shops at Hudson Yards is 34 St–Hudson Yards, located directly beneath the complex. This modern station is the terminus for one of the newest subway lines and literally drops you off at the doorstep of the shopping center and surrounding attractions. 🚇
Subway Lines Serving The Shops at Hudson Yards
The Shops at Hudson Yards are perfectly connected thanks to the extension of the 7 train line of the New York City Subway. The main line that takes you directly to this destination is:
- 7 (purple line)
Additionally, the 34 St–Penn Station is about a 10-15 minute walk to the east, offering access to more lines:
- A, C, E (blue lines)
- 1, 2, 3 (red lines)
- Also Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) and NJ Transit.
How to Get to The Shops at Hudson Yards From:
Central Park / Columbus Circle
If you are near Central Park or Columbus Circle, you can take the A, C, or 1 trains southbound to 34 St–Penn Station and walk west on 34th Street for about 10-15 minutes. Alternatively, take the B, D, F, or M train to 42 St-Bryant Park or the N, Q, R, or W train to Times Sq-42 St and transfer to the westbound 7 train to the last stop, 34 St–Hudson Yards.
Lower Manhattan (Wall Street / World Trade Center)
From Wall Street or the World Trade Center, you can take the northbound E train to 34 St–Penn Station and walk west. Another option is to take the northbound 2 or 3 train to Times Sq–42 St and transfer to the westbound 7 train to 34 St–Hudson Yards.
Brooklyn (DUMBO / Williamsburg)
From DUMBO in Brooklyn, you can take the Manhattan-bound A or C train to 34 St–Penn Station and walk. If coming from Williamsburg, you can take the L train to Union Square, transfer to the N, Q, R, or W train to Times Sq-42 St, and then switch to the westbound 7 train to 34 St–Hudson Yards.
Queens (Long Island City / Flushing)
If you’re coming from Long Island City or Flushing in Queens, the most direct way is to take the westbound 7 train. This line will take you directly to the 34 St–Hudson Yards station, the last stop. It’s a very convenient and direct route. 👍
Harlem
From Harlem, you can take the southbound A or C trains to 34 St–Penn Station and walk west. You can also take the southbound 2 or 3 trains to Times Sq–42 St and transfer to the westbound 7 train to 34 St–Hudson Yards.
Airports (JFK / LaGuardia / Newark)
From JFK Airport, take the AirTrain to Jamaica Station and then the E subway line to 34 St–Penn Station, from where you can walk. From LaGuardia (LGA), take the free Q70-SBS bus to Jackson Hts–Roosevelt Av and transfer to the Manhattan/westbound 7 subway line to 34 St–Hudson Yards. If arriving at Newark (EWR), take the AirTrain Newark and then NJ Transit to Penn Station New York. From there, walk about 10-15 minutes west. ✈️
What to Do at The Shops at Hudson Yards?
The Shops at Hudson Yards offer a comprehensive experience that goes beyond shopping. It’s a destination in itself, combining fashion, dining, art, and entertainment in a stunning architectural setting. The atmosphere is sophisticated and modern, perfect for spending several hours exploring.
Admire the Architecture and Design
The building housing The Shops at Hudson Yards is itself an architectural work of art. Enjoy its elegant and bright interior design, open spaces, and views of the exterior, including the public square and The Vessel. You’ll often find contemporary art installations scattered throughout the center. 🖼️
Go Shopping 🛍️
Explore seven levels of shops including luxury department stores like Neiman Marcus, international designer brands such as Dior, Fendi, and Cartier, contemporary labels like Zara and H&M, and unique concept stores. It’s the ideal place to find the latest trends or treat yourself.
Enjoy the Gastronomy 🍽️
The culinary offering is one of Hudson Yards’ strong points. From the vibrant Mercado Little Spain by José Andrés, celebrating Spanish cuisine, to restaurants by renowned chefs like Thomas Keller (TAK Room) or David Chang (Momofuku). There are also more casual options and cafes for all tastes and budgets. Enjoy your meal!
Visit Nearby Attractions
The Shops are integrated with some of NYC’s newest attractions. You can climb The Vessel (check availability and reservations) for unique views from its intricate structure, or ascend to the Edge observation deck for a dizzying perspective of the city. Additionally, the start (or end) of the High Line park is right next door.
Capture Unique Moments 📸
Hudson Yards is incredibly photogenic. Find the perfect angle for a photo with The Vessel in the background, capture the modernity of the shopping center’s interior, or take a selfie with the stunning views from one of the upper levels or restaurants. The connection with the plaza and The Shed also offers excellent photo opportunities.
Attractions in and Around Hudson Yards
The Shops at Hudson Yards are just one part of a vibrant new district full of attractions. Explore beyond the boutiques and restaurants to discover some of the most innovative and exciting experiences New York has to offer, all just steps away.
The Vessel
This spectacular interactive structure designed by Thomas Heatherwick is the visual icon of Hudson Yards. Composed of 154 interconnected flights of stairs, it offers changing perspectives of the city and the plaza. Although access to climb may be limited, admiring it from below is already impressive. ✨
Edge Observation Deck
Located on the 100th floor of 30 Hudson Yards (accessible from The Shops), Edge is the highest outdoor observation deck in the Western Hemisphere. It offers 360-degree panoramic views of New York and features a glass floor for the more daring. An unforgettable experience! 😮
The High Line
Just south of The Shops at Hudson Yards begins (or ends) the famous High Line, an elevated park built on former railway lines. Stroll through its gardens, enjoy the urban views, admire the art installations, and relax in this unique green oasis that winds south through Chelsea and the Meatpacking District. 🌳
The Shed
Next to The Shops and the public plaza is The Shed, an innovative cultural and artistic center. Its most striking feature is its retractable outer shell, which allows the space to adapt for different types of events, from concerts and exhibitions to performances and theater. Check its schedule to see what’s on during your visit. 🎭
Mercado Little Spain
Located on the ground floor of The Shops at Hudson Yards, this bustling Spanish food market, created by chef José Andrés and the Adrià brothers, is an attraction in itself. Explore its different stalls offering tapas, paellas, hams, churros, and Spanish wines, or sit down at one of its restaurants. A delight! 🇪🇸
Public Square and Gardens
The heart of Hudson Yards is its large public plaza, surrounded by skyscrapers, The Shops, The Shed, and The Vessel. This open space hosts seasonal events (like Christmas markets or summer screenings), public art installations, and is a pleasant place to sit and observe the dynamism of the new neighborhood. ⛲
Tips for Visiting The Shops at Hudson Yards
Visiting The Shops at Hudson Yards is a modern and pleasant experience. To make the most of your visit to this state-of-the-art shopping and leisure complex, keep some practical tips in mind.
Best Time of Day to Go
If you prefer to avoid the biggest crowds, try visiting The Shops on weekday mornings or early afternoons. Weekends tend to be busier. At night, the atmosphere is very special, with the buildings lit up and the option to dine at one of its excellent restaurants. As it’s an indoor space, it’s ideal for any weather. ☀️❄️
Managing Crowds
Although the shopping center’s design is spacious, it can get quite crowded, especially on weekends and during special events or holiday periods. If you’re looking for a quieter experience, avoid peak hours (midday and late afternoon on weekends). Explore the upper levels, which are sometimes less crowded.
Safety and Comfort
Hudson Yards is a very modern and generally safe area. However, as in any crowded place, keep an eye on your belongings. The complex has excellent facilities, including numerous restrooms, seating areas, and is fully accessible for people with reduced mobility. Enjoy the comfort of a climate-controlled space year-round. 👍
What to Bring
Wear comfortable shoes 👟, as the shopping center is large and you’ll likely want to explore the surrounding area as well (High Line, The Vessel). Dress appropriately if you plan to visit upscale restaurants or luxury stores. You don’t need to bring anything special, but a reusable water bottle and your camera or phone are always a good idea.
