Union Square Park
Union Square Park is much more than just a park in the heart of Manhattan: it’s a vibrant meeting space, history, and community activity hub. Known for its famous Greenmarket 🥕, its legacy as a gathering point for social activism, and its dynamic atmosphere, this park represents an essential green lung and a nerve center of New York life.
Located between Broadway and Fourth Avenue, and 14th and 17th Streets, Union Square Park is a fundamental stop for those looking to experience the city’s authenticity. Whether it’s enjoying a sunny day ☀️, exploring the farmers’ market, or simply watching the hustle and bustle of people, its unique atmosphere makes it an enriching experience that combines nature, culture, and urban life.
Why visit Union Square Park?
Visiting Union Square Park means immersing yourself in a space full of history and local life. It’s an iconic New York location that combines green areas 🌳, local commerce, and a strong sense of community. Here, the famous Greenmarket, historic statues, street performers, and a diverse energy converge, reflecting the spirit of the city.
Its historical and cultural significance is notable: it has been the scene of demonstrations, celebrations, and public events for over a century. Additionally, its strategic location makes it an ideal starting point for exploring nearby neighborhoods like Greenwich Village, the Flatiron District, and the East Village.
Union Square Park is also a symbol of community vitality. What was a neglected space in past decades is now a well-maintained, safe park full of activities that attract New Yorkers and visitors alike. If you want to feel the authentic pulse of the city, this is the place.
How to get to Union Square Park by subway?
Main Stations
The main station providing direct access to Union Square Park is 14 St–Union Sq, located right beneath the park. This station is a major transportation hub, connecting numerous subway lines and facilitating access from virtually anywhere in the city. 🚇
Subway lines that take you to Union Square Park
Union Square Park is exceptionally well-connected by the New York City subway, with several lines stopping at the 14 St–Union Sq station. The lines that take you directly to this destination are:
- L (gray line)
- N, Q, R, W (yellow lines)
- 4, 5, 6 (green lines)
How to get to Union Square Park from:
Central Park / Columbus Circle
If you are near Central Park (east side) or further north, you can take the 4, 5, or 6 lines southbound (Downtown) directly to 14 St–Union Sq. From Columbus Circle, take the N, Q, R, or W lines southbound.
Lower Manhattan (Wall Street / World Trade Center)
From Wall Street or the World Trade Center, you can take the 4 or 5 lines (northbound/Uptown) directly to 14 St–Union Sq. You can also use the N, R, or W lines from stations like Cortlandt St or City Hall.
Brooklyn (DUMBO / Williamsburg)
From Williamsburg in Brooklyn, the L line takes you directly to 14 St–Union Sq in just a few stops. From DUMBO or other areas of Brooklyn, you can take the N, Q, R lines (e.g., from DeKalb Ave) or the 4, 5 lines (from Borough Hall or Atlantic Terminal) towards Manhattan.
Queens (Long Island City / Flushing)
If you’re coming from Long Island City or Astoria in Queens, you can take the N or W lines southbound to 14 St–Union Sq. From Flushing, take the 7 line to Grand Central–42 St and transfer to the 4, 5, or 6 lines southbound.
Harlem
From Harlem, you can take the 4, 5, or 6 lines southbound (Downtown) directly to 14 St–Union Sq.
Airports (JFK / LaGuardia / Newark)
From JFK Airport, take the AirTrain to Jamaica Station and then the E line to Lexington Av/53 St to transfer to the 6 line (southbound), or to Sutphin Blvd–Archer Av to take the J line to Canal St and transfer to the N, Q, R, W, 4, 5, or 6 lines. From LaGuardia (LGA), take the Q70-SBS bus to Jackson Hts–Roosevelt Av and transfer to the N or R lines. From Newark (EWR), take NJ Transit to Penn Station (NY) and then the N, Q, R, or W lines southbound.
What to do in Union Square Park?
Union Square Park is one of New York’s most dynamic parks, appreciated by locals and tourists alike. It offers a unique mix of activities, from buying fresh produce to moments of relaxation and historical contemplation. 🌱 It’s a perfect place to feel the local energy.
Explore the Union Square Greenmarket
The main attraction is the Union Square Greenmarket 🧑🌾 (Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays). Local farmers and producers sell fresh fruits, vegetables, cheeses, artisanal breads, flowers, and much more. It’s ideal for buying quality products and enjoying the lively atmosphere.
Admire the statues and monuments
The park houses important statues, such as the equestrian statue of George Washington, one of Abraham Lincoln, and one of the Marquis de Lafayette. More recently, a statue of Mahatma Gandhi was added. Strolling through the park allows you to discover these pieces of history.
Relax and enjoy the atmosphere
Union Square Park offers ample lawn areas (in season), benches, and spaces to sit and relax. It’s a perfect place to read a book 📖, have a picnic, or simply people-watch: students, office workers, street performers, chess players, and families.
Visit the playground and the dog run
For families, the park features a popular and renovated children’s playground (Evelyn’s Playground). There is also a designated area for dogs (Union Square Dog Run 🐕), which is very popular with local pet owners.
Enjoy events and performances
Union Square Park is often the setting for public events, small musical performances 🎶, skateboarding demonstrations 🛹, and other spontaneous activities. There’s always something happening, giving the park a very lively atmosphere.
Attractions near Union Square Park
Union Square Park is situated in a prime location, surrounded by interesting neighborhoods and cultural attractions. Exploring the surroundings will allow you to discover more about the diversity and history of this part of Manhattan.
Strand Bookstore
Just one block from the park, on Broadway, lies the legendary Strand Bookstore 📚. With its ’18 miles of books,’ it’s a paradise for book lovers, offering new, used, and rare books. It’s a must-visit.
Flatiron Building
Walking a few minutes north on Broadway, you’ll reach the iconic Flatiron Building. Its unique triangular architecture makes it one of the most photographed buildings in New York. The surrounding area (Flatiron District) is also worth a stroll.
Greenwich Village
To the west and southwest of Union Square lies the historic neighborhood of Greenwich Village. Known for its bohemian past, tree-lined streets, brownstones, and iconic spots like Washington Square Park, it’s ideal for getting lost while walking.
Shopping and dining area
The area around Union Square is packed with shops 🛍️, from large chains to independent boutiques. There is also a huge variety of restaurants, cafes, and bars for all tastes and budgets, reflecting the city’s culinary diversity.
Forbidden Planet
For fans of comics, science fiction, and pop culture, the Forbidden Planet store, located near the park, is an essential stop. It offers a large selection of comics, graphic novels, toys, and merchandise.
New York University (NYU)
The campus of New York University (NYU) extends south and west of Union Square. Walking through the area allows you to feel the student atmosphere and discover some of the university’s academic and cultural buildings.
Tips for visiting Union Square Park
Although Union Square Park is a welcoming and easy place to visit, here are some tips to make your experience even better and allow you to fully enjoy this green space in the middle of the city. 📝
Best time of day to go
If you want to experience the bustle of the Greenmarket, visit the park on Monday, Wednesday, Friday, or Saturday mornings or midday. For a quieter visit, weekday mornings (Tuesdays and Thursdays) or late afternoons are usually less crowded. Summer evenings are also pleasant for a stroll.
Avoiding crowds
On market days (especially Saturdays) and weekends with good weather, the park can get quite crowded. If you prefer fewer people, look for quieter corners on the edges of the park or visit during off-peak hours. Weekdays are generally more relaxed than weekends.
Safety
Union Square Park is generally a safe area, well-patrolled, and busy with people day and night. However, as in any crowded public place, it’s important to be aware of your personal belongings. Keep an eye on your bag and wallet, especially in crowded areas like the market or near subway exits.
What to bring and what not to bring
Wear comfortable shoes 👟, as you will likely do a lot of walking in and around the park. If visiting on a market day, a reusable bag is useful for your purchases. In summer, consider bringing water and sunscreen if you plan to spend time on the lawn. You can bring food for a picnic, but remember to clean up after yourself. Avoid bringing unnecessary valuables.
