Union Square
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About
Union Square has long been a hub for social activism and community gathering. Today, it is best known for the Union Square Greenmarket, where regional farmers sell fresh produce, artisanal cheeses, and flowers. The park also features statues of Abraham Lincoln and Mahatma Gandhi. The atmosphere is a chaotic but pleasant mix of skateboarders, street artists, and shoppers. Expert recommendation: Visit on a Monday, Wednesday, Friday, or Saturday to experience the full Greenmarket at its peak. Pro tip: During the winter holidays, the square hosts a massive European-style Christmas market. For foodies, the surrounding blocks contain some of the city's best casual dining and the famous Strand Bookstore is just two blocks south.
Highlights
- Famous Greenmarket farmers market
- George Washington statue
- Subway transit crossroads
- Bustling political activism site
Amenities
Nearby Attractions
Gramercy Tavern
A pioneer of the farm-to-table movement, Gramercy Tavern has been a beloved NYC institution for decades. It is divided into two distinct spaces: the casual, walk-in 'Tavern' with its wood-fired oven and the more formal 'Dining Room.' The decor is rustic yet sophisticated, featuring American folk art and incredible seasonal floral displays. The service is famously warm and unpretentious. The sensory experience is defined by the scent of roasting wood and the vibrant flavors of the Union Square Greenmarket. Expert recommendation: The 'Gramercy Tavern Burger' (available in the Tavern) is a contender for the city's best. Pro tip: The Tavern section is great for solo travelers; you can often find a spot at the bar for a world-class meal without a reservation.
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Flatiron Building
Designed by Daniel Burnham and completed in 1902, the Flatiron Building is one of the world's most recognizable skyscrapers due to its triangular wedge shape. Built to fit the intersection of Broadway and Fifth Avenue, its Renaissance Revival facade is covered in limestone and terra cotta. While the interior is currently undergoing renovations and is not typically open to the public, the exterior remains a pilgrimage site for photographers. The surrounding 'Flatiron District' offers a vibrant mix of tech offices and upscale dining. Expert recommendation: The best photo angle is from the traffic island on 23rd Street. Pro tip: After viewing the building, head across the street to the original Shake Shack in Madison Square Park for a classic New York experience.
Ippudo NY
Ippudo brought the 'ramen revolution' to New York with its sleek, high-energy East Village flagship. The experience begins with a loud greeting from the staff and continues with bowls of rich, tonkotsu (pork bone) broth. The decor is modern and woody, with a vibe that feels more like a trendy lounge than a noodle shop. The sensory experience is defined by the aroma of simmering broth and the sound of slurping noodles. Expert recommendation: The 'Akamaru Shinaji' ramen with its signature umami dama paste is essential. Pro tip: They do not take reservations and the wait can be legendary (often 90+ minutes). Go at 5:00 PM or during a late lunch to minimize the wait. Their 'Hirata Buns' (pork buns) are some of the best in the city and are the perfect appetizer while you wait for your ramen.
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Shake Shack (Madison Square Park)
This is the original Shack, born from a hot dog cart in 2001. Located in the middle of Madison Square Park, it offers an 'al fresco' dining experience where you eat your burgers under the trees with a view of the Flatiron Building. The sensory experience is defined by the buzzing 'pager' in your hand and the classic park atmosphere. It remains a pilgrimage site for burger enthusiasts despite its global expansion. Expert recommendation: The 'ShackBurger' and a 'Shroom Burger' (for vegetarians or as an extra) are the go-to orders. Pro tip: Use the 'Shack App' to order ahead and skip the notoriously long line. In the winter, they have heaters, but it’s best enjoyed on a sunny spring afternoon.
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