Shake Shack (Madison Square Park)
Shake Shack in Madison Square Park is much more than just a burger joint in the heart of Manhattan: it’s the birthplace of a New York icon, right where it all began, in a vibrant public park. Known worldwide for its delicious burgers, shakes, and relaxed atmosphere, this stand represents the innovative and community spirit of New York 🌳.
Located within the historic Madison Square Park, overlooking the Flatiron Building, the original Shake Shack is a must-visit for both locals and tourists. Whether for a quick lunch or dinner under the park lights, its unique atmosphere makes it a quintessential New York experience that combines good food, urban nature, and pure neighborhood life.
Why Visit Shake Shack (Madison Square Park)?
Visiting the original Shake Shack means connecting directly with a New York success story and enjoying fast food elevated to an art form. It’s an iconic spot that combines quality cuisine, a charming park setting, and the energy of the Flatiron District. Here you’ll taste the burgers 🍔 and shakes 🍦 that started a culinary revolution.
Its cultural significance is undeniable: it started as a simple hot dog cart for a park art project and transformed into a global chain. It’s a symbol of entrepreneurship and how a public space can be revitalized with a great idea. Furthermore, its location makes it a perfect spot to relax while exploring the area.
This Shake Shack is also a testament to consistent quality and community atmosphere. Despite the brand’s growth, this original stand in Madison Square Park remains a beloved spot, always bustling with people enjoying good food outdoors. If you want to taste the true origin of Shake Shack, this is the place.
How to Get to Shake Shack (Madison Square Park) by Subway?
Main Stations
The main subway stations providing direct access to Madison Square Park, where the original Shake Shack is located, are the 23 St stations. These stations are conveniently located at various points around the park, making access easy from different lines.
Subway Lines That Take You to Shake Shack (Madison Square Park)
Madison Square Park is very well connected by the New York City subway. The lines that take you directly to the 23 St stations near the park are:
- N, R, W (yellow lines) – stop at 23 St at Broadway/Fifth Avenue
- 6 (green line) – stops at 23 St at Park Avenue South
- F, M (orange lines) – stop at 23 St at Sixth Avenue
How to Get to Shake Shack (Madison Square Park) from:
Central Park / Columbus Circle
If you are near Central Park or Columbus Circle, you can take the N, R, or W lines southbound (‘downtown’) directly to the 23 St station on Broadway. The park is right there.
Lower Manhattan (Wall Street / World Trade Center)
From Lower Manhattan, you can take the N, R, or W lines northbound (‘uptown’) to the 23 St station. Alternatively, you can take the 6 line (northbound) to 23 St at Park Avenue South.
Brooklyn (DUMBO / Williamsburg)
From DUMBO, take the F line (northbound) to the 23 St station on Sixth Avenue. From Williamsburg, you can take the L line to Union Square (14 St) and then transfer to the northbound N, R, W, or 6 lines to 23 St.
Queens (Long Island City / Flushing)
If coming from Long Island City, you can take the N or W lines (southbound) to 23 St. From Flushing, you can take the 7 line to Grand Central–42 St and transfer to the 6 line (southbound) to 23 St.
Harlem
From Harlem, you can take the 6 line (southbound) directly to the 23 St station at Park Avenue South.
Airports (JFK / LaGuardia / Newark)
From JFK Airport, take the AirTrain to Jamaica Station and transfer to the E line (Manhattan-bound) to Lexington Av/53 St, then switch to the 6 line (southbound) to 23 St. From LaGuardia (LGA), take the Q70-SBS bus to Jackson Hts-Roosevelt Av and switch to the F or R line (Manhattan-bound) to 23 St. From Newark (EWR), take NJ Transit to Penn Station, and from there walk east or take the N, R, W lines (southbound) one stop to 23 St.
What to Do at Shake Shack (Madison Square Park)?
The original Shake Shack in Madison Square Park is one of New York’s most authentic dining experiences, not just because of the food, but because of the setting. It offers the perfect opportunity to enjoy gourmet burgers, fries, and shakes while relaxing in one of the city’s most beautiful parks. The line, the string lights at night, and the buzz create a unique atmosphere ✨.
Enjoy the Food and Atmosphere 🍔
The main thing is, of course, to eat! Order a classic ShackBurger®, some Crinkle-Cut Fries (maybe with cheese 🧀), and one of their famous hand-spun shakes or a ‘concrete’ (frozen custard ice cream). Finding a spot at the communal tables or simply sitting on the lawn and enjoying your food outdoors is an essential part of the experience.
Relax in the Park 🌳
Once you have your order, find a place to sit and enjoy the surroundings. Madison Square Park offers a green respite in the middle of the city, with beautiful gardens, temporary public art sculptures, and stunning views of the iconic Flatiron Building. It’s perfect for people-watching and unwinding.
Try the Classics and Specialties 🍦
Although the ShackBurger® is the star, be sure to try other options like the SmokeShack® (with smoked bacon and cherry peppers) or the vegetarian ‘Shroom Burger (a fried portobello mushroom filled with melted cheese). Also, keep an eye out for seasonal shakes and location-specific ‘concretes,’ which often pay homage to its park origins.
Observe the Art and Park Life 🐕
Madison Square Park is known for its contemporary art program, so you might encounter interesting sculptural installations during your visit. Additionally, the park is a popular spot for dog walking (there’s even a dog run!), which adds a lively, local touch to the atmosphere. It’s a great place to see New York life in action.
Capture the Perfect Moment 📸
This Shake Shack is incredibly photogenic. Take photos of your food tray with the park and the Flatiron Building in the background, capture the atmosphere under the lights at night, or simply document the experience of waiting in line and enjoying one of NYC’s most iconic meals at its original location. It’s a must-have memory!
Attractions Near Shake Shack (Madison Square Park)
The original Shake Shack enjoys a prime location in the Flatiron District, surrounded by historic architecture, interesting shops, and other points of interest. If you decide to explore the area after your meal, you’ll find a wide variety of fascinating places within easy walking distance.
The Flatiron Building
Just south of Madison Square Park stands the iconic Flatiron Building. This early 20th-century architectural marvel, with its characteristic triangular shape, is one of the most photographed buildings in New York City. You can’t miss the chance to admire it up close.
Eataly Flatiron
Across Fifth Avenue from the park, you’ll find Eataly, a massive high-end Italian marketplace. Explore its counters of fresh pasta, cheeses, cured meats, breads, and pastries, or sit down at one of its restaurants or cafes. It’s a paradise for lovers of Italian food.
Union Square Park and Greenmarket
A short walk south (about 10 blocks), you’ll reach Union Square Park. It’s another vibrant green space known for its historic Greenmarket (farmers market, on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays), its street performers, and its lively atmosphere.
The National Museum of Mathematics (MoMath)
Just north of Madison Square Park, on East 26th Street, you’ll find MoMath. It’s the only museum in North America dedicated to mathematics, offering interactive and fun exhibits for all ages. A surprising and educational visit.
The Ladies’ Mile Historic District
The area west and south of Madison Square Park is part of the Ladies’ Mile Historic District, known for its magnificent late 19th-century commercial buildings with cast-iron facades. Strolling along Broadway, Fifth, and Sixth Avenues in this area is an architectural pleasure.
Gramercy Park
East of Madison Square Park lies the exclusive neighborhood of Gramercy Park. Although the park itself is private (only residents with keys can enter), strolling through the quiet surrounding streets, admiring the beautiful townhouses and serene atmosphere, is a charming experience.
Tips for Visiting Shake Shack (Madison Square Park)
While visiting the original Shake Shack is a fantastic experience, there are a few things to keep in mind to make the most of your visit to this popular outdoor stand.
Best Time of Day to Go
This Shake Shack is very popular, and the lines can be long, especially during lunchtime (12 pm – 2 pm) and on pleasant evenings. To avoid the biggest crowds, try going a bit before noon, mid-afternoon (3 pm – 5 pm), or later in the evening. You can check the ‘Shack Cam’ on their website to see the line in real-time before you go. 🕒
Avoiding Crowds
If the line is very long and you’re in a hurry, consider visiting on a weekday instead of the weekend, or during less ideal weather (though it remains popular). Sometimes, the line moves faster than it looks. Consider it part of the experience! Be patient; the reward is worth it.
Managing the Wait and Space 🧍🧍♀️
Be prepared to wait in line, which often snakes through the park. Once you have your food, finding a table can be challenging during peak hours. Be patient and keep an eye out for tables becoming free, or consider taking your food to a bench or the park lawn for an impromptu picnic. Watch your belongings while waiting or eating.
What to Expect (and What to Bring) ☀️
Remember that it’s an outdoor stand with open seating. Check the weather forecast. On sunny days, bring sunscreen and perhaps a hat 👒. If the tables are full, a small blanket might be useful for sitting comfortably on the grass. Bring a payment method (they accept cards and mobile payments) and a big appetite! 😉
