Smorgasburg
Smorgasburg is much more than an open-air food market in Brooklyn and Manhattan: it’s the gastronomic epicenter of New York on weekends, where culinary creativity seems boundless. Known worldwide for its huge selection of food vendors, vibrant energy, and the influx of thousands of food lovers every weekend, this place represents the diverse and delicious soul of New York. 🍔🌮🍜
Located primarily in Williamsburg (Saturdays) and Prospect Park (Sundays), with an additional edition at the World Trade Center (Fridays), Smorgasburg is a must-visit stop for anyone wanting to sample the city’s emerging culinary scene. Whether enjoying the skyline views from Williamsburg or relaxing on the grass in Prospect Park, its unique atmosphere makes it an unforgettable experience that combines innovative food, local culture, and pure urban life.
Why Visit Smorgasburg?
Visiting Smorgasburg means diving directly into the pulsating heart of New York’s food scene. It’s an iconic spot for foodies that combines culinary innovation, a festive atmosphere, and spectacular views like few others in the world. Dozens of local vendors converge here, offering everything from reinvented classics to entirely new creations, all in a lively outdoor setting.
Its cultural importance is undeniable: it has served as a launching pad for many successful food businesses and reflects the city’s incredible diversity through its gastronomic offerings. It’s the perfect place to discover new flavors, support small entrepreneurs, and enjoy an authentic New York weekend plan.
Smorgasburg is also a symbol of New York’s vibrant open-air market culture. What began as a spin-off market from the Brooklyn Flea is now a massive event attracting thousands of locals and tourists every weekend. If you want to taste the true culinary and social essence of the city, this is the place. 🤤
How to Get to Smorgasburg by Subway?
Main Stations
The main stations vary by location: for Williamsburg (Saturdays), the key station is Bedford Ave (L). For Prospect Park (Sundays), the closest stations are Prospect Park (B, Q, S) or 7th Ave (F, G). For World Trade Center (Fridays), the World Trade Center (various lines) station is the one.
Subway Lines That Take You to Smorgasburg
Smorgasburg is well-connected by the New York City subway. The lines that take you to its main locations are:
- Williamsburg (Marsha P. Johnson State Park): L (Bedford Ave), G (Nassau Ave or Metropolitan Ave, requires a short walk), East River Ferry (North Williamsburg).
- Prospect Park (Breeze Hill): B, Q, S (Prospect Park), F, G (7th Ave).
- World Trade Center (Oculus Plaza): A, C, E, 1, 2, 3, R, W, PATH (World Trade Center).
How to get to Smorgasburg from:
Central Park / Columbus Circle
For Williamsburg: Take the A, C, or E line southbound to 14th St, and transfer to the L line towards Brooklyn to Bedford Ave. For Prospect Park: Take the B or Q line southbound from 57th St-7th Ave or nearby stations directly to Prospect Park.
Lower Manhattan (Wall Street / World Trade Center)
For Williamsburg: Take the A, C, or E line northbound to 14th St, and transfer to the L line towards Brooklyn to Bedford Ave. For Prospect Park: Take the 2 or 3 line northbound to Atlantic Terminal-Barclays Ctr and transfer to the B or Q line to Prospect Park. For Smorgasburg WTC: Just walk! Or take local lines like the R or W.
Brooklyn (DUMBO / Williamsburg)
From DUMBO to Williamsburg: Take the East River Ferry or the F line to Jay St-MetroTech, transfer to the A or C to Hoyt-Schermerhorn, and then the G to Metropolitan Ave. From Williamsburg to Prospect Park: Take the G line southbound to 7th Ave (F/G) or to Hoyt-Schermerhorn to transfer to the B or Q.
Queens (Long Island City / Flushing)
From Long Island City to Williamsburg: Take the G line southbound to Nassau Ave or Metropolitan Ave. From Flushing: Take the 7 line to Court Sq and transfer to the G line. For Prospect Park: Take the G line southbound to 7th Ave (F/G).
Harlem
For Williamsburg: Take the A, C, or E line southbound to 14th St and transfer to the L line towards Brooklyn. For Prospect Park: Take the B or Q line southbound directly to the Prospect Park station.
Airports (JFK / LaGuardia / Newark)
From JFK: AirTrain to Howard Beach, then the A line to Hoyt-Schermerhorn, transfer to G (for Williamsburg) or transfer to B/Q/S at Atlantic Terminal (for Prospect Park). From LaGuardia: Q70 SBS Bus to Roosevelt Ave, then F (for Prospect Park) or E/M/R to Court Sq and transfer to G (for Williamsburg). From Newark: NJ Transit to Penn Station, then subway A/C/E to 14th St and transfer to L (for Williamsburg); or subway B/Q/S from Times Square/Herald Square (for Prospect Park).
What to Do at Smorgasburg?
Smorgasburg is one of New York’s most popular plans, not just for its food, but for the unique atmosphere it offers. It’s a feast for the senses where you can explore dozens of food stalls, discover new flavors, and enjoy the outdoors in iconic locations. Get ready to eat! 😋
Try the Vendors’ Food
The main activity is, without a doubt, eating! Stroll among the stalls and let yourself be tempted by the incredible variety: from gourmet burgers and creative tacos to exotic desserts and refreshing drinks. It’s the ideal place to try several things and share with friends. You won’t know where to start!
Enjoy the Views and Atmosphere
Each location offers a different setting. In Williamsburg, enjoy the stunning views of the Manhattan skyline from Marsha P. Johnson State Park. In Prospect Park, relax on the grass under the trees. At the WTC, feel the energy of the financial district. The atmosphere is always lively, with music, people chatting, and a general good vibe. 🌳🌇
Discover New Flavors and Trends
Smorgasburg is famous for being a showcase of culinary trends. Here you can try innovative dishes you might not find elsewhere, like the famous Ramen Burger that debuted here, or unique desserts and unexpected fusions. Open your mind and your palate! 🍜🍦
Socialize and Relax
It’s a perfect place to meet up with friends, enjoy a weekend afternoon in the sun (weather permitting!), and simply relax. Find a spot to sit (on the grass in Prospect Park, on benches or walls in Williamsburg) and enjoy the atmosphere while savoring your culinary finds.
Take Food Photos
The food at Smorgasburg isn’t just delicious, it’s also very photogenic! It’s a paradise for Instagram lovers and food photography enthusiasts. Capture the colors, textures, and creative presentation of the dishes, with the vibrant market atmosphere or city views as a backdrop. 📸✨
Attractions Near Smorgasburg
Smorgasburg’s locations are in interesting areas of New York, allowing you to combine your food visit with exploring the surroundings. Take the opportunity to discover parks, charming neighborhoods, and other nearby cultural attractions.
Marsha P. Johnson State Park (Williamsburg)
Smorgasburg’s Saturday location is this riverfront park. Before or after eating, you can stroll through the park, enjoy the panoramic views of Manhattan, and relax by the East River. It’s a perfect place to disconnect from the hustle and bustle.
Williamsburg Neighborhood
Explore the streets of Williamsburg, known for its independent shops, fashion boutiques, art galleries, charming cafes, lively bars, and abundant street art. Bedford Avenue is the main artery, but get lost in the side streets to discover hidden treasures.
Prospect Park
The Sunday location is inside this huge and beautiful park, designed by the same architects as Central Park. You can spend hours exploring its meadows (like Long Meadow), the lake, the carousel, or simply enjoy a peaceful walk along its wooded paths. It’s Brooklyn’s green lung.
Brooklyn Museum
Located on the eastern edge of Prospect Park, the Brooklyn Museum is one of the largest and most important art museums in the country. It houses extensive collections ranging from ancient Egypt to contemporary art. A perfect cultural visit to complement the day.
Brooklyn Botanic Garden
Also next to Prospect Park and the museum, this botanical garden is an oasis of beauty with various themed sections, such as the famous Japanese Garden or the Steinhardt Conservatory greenhouse. It is especially spectacular during the cherry blossom season in spring. 🌸
Oculus and World Trade Center Memorial & Museum (near Smorgasburg WTC)
If you visit the Friday edition at the WTC, you’ll be surrounded by significant points of interest. Admire the impressive architecture of the Oculus, visit the moving 9/11 Memorial & Museum, or go up the One World Observatory for unparalleled views.
Tips for Visiting Smorgasburg
Although Smorgasburg is a fantastic experience, there are a few things worth knowing to make the most of your visit and enjoy the incredible gastronomic offerings and unique atmosphere this market provides.
Best Time of Day to Go
To avoid the biggest crowds and ensure your favorite stalls haven’t run out of stock, it’s advisable to arrive relatively early, perhaps around opening time or shortly after (it usually opens at 11:00 AM). Peak hours are typically between 1:00 PM and 3:00 PM.
Dealing with Crowds and Lines
Smorgasburg is very popular, so expect to find quite a few people and lines at the most famous stalls. Be patient, it’s part of the experience! If you go in a group, a good strategy is for each person to queue at a different stall and then share the food.
Cash and Payments
Although many vendors accept cards and mobile payments, it’s a good idea to bring some cash 💵. Some stalls might have connection issues, prefer cash, or have a minimum for card payments. There are ATMs nearby, but they might have lines or charge fees. Keep an eye on your belongings in crowded areas.
What to Bring and What Not To
Wear comfortable shoes, as you’ll be standing and walking quite a bit. If it’s sunny, don’t forget sunscreen, sunglasses, and maybe a hat ☀️. A reusable water bottle is useful for staying hydrated. In Prospect Park, a picnic blanket can be great for sitting on the grass. Avoid bringing your own food or drinks; the idea is to support the local vendors. And come hungry! 😉
