Union Square in New York

Union Square in New York is a lively square in Manhattan, situated at the intersection of Broadway and Fourth Avenue. The square lies at the heart of Greenwich Village, the Flatiron District, the East Village and Gramercy Park. Union Square is a central hub in the city where there is always something to see or do, from New York’s most famous farmers’ market to buskers and demonstrations.

What to see and do in Union Square

Union Square does not owe its name to trade unions, as is often thought, but to the junction of two major roads: Broadway and the former Bowery Road, now known as Fourth Avenue. Ever since it opened in 1839, literally everything has converged here: roads, underground lines, neighbourhoods and, above all, huge numbers of New Yorkers.

The square also has a long tradition as a venue for demonstrations and speeches. The first-ever Labor Day parade set off from here in 1882, and that history has never quite faded away. You can still sense that free-spirited, independent atmosphere as you walk across the square.

These days, Union Square is primarily a meeting place where the city can take a breather. The green heart of the square is officially called Union Square Park, featuring lawns, trees and a children’s playground. You’ll always spot students here, skaters practising their tricks, music playing somewhere, and chess players often enjoying a game. As so many subway lines converge beneath the square, virtually every New Yorker passes through here at some point.

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Eric’s Tip: “You can discover the square on my East Village walking route, which you can find in the Eric’s New York app. Explore not only Union Square but also the rest of the neighbourhood.”

Union Square Greenmarket

Four days a week, on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays, the north side of the square is transformed into the Union Square Greenmarket. Farmers from the New York area sell fresh vegetables, fruit, cheese, bread and flowers here. It is the city’s most famous farmers’ market, and even chefs from top restaurants come here to stock up.

Shopping around Union Square

Union Square is a great starting or finishing point for a day’s shopping in New York. Book lovers will be in their element here: on the north side of the square is a large Barnes & Noble, and just a few minutes’ walk away on Broadway you’ll find The Strand, an iconic bookshop with miles of books.

Fancy a bite to eat after all that shopping? There’s a Whole Foods on the south side of the square, which is ideal for picking up a snack or lunch to eat there. Afterwards, pop along to Fish’s Eddy, just a little further down Broadway; it’s a wonderfully quirky shop full of New York-themed crockery, glasses and mugs. Perfect for an original souvenir.

Union Square Holiday Market

Are you visiting New York between mid-November and Christmas? If so, the Union Square Holiday Market is well worth a visit. The square is filled with stalls where you can buy handmade gifts, jewellery, art and treats. With a hot chocolate in hand, this is one of the cosiest Christmas markets in the city.

Practical Information

• Location: Union Square Park is situated between 14th Street and 17th Street in Manhattan, where Broadway and Fourth Avenue meet.
• Opening hours: daily 06:00 – 01.00
• How to get there: Take subway lines 456LNQRW to 14 St-Union Sq Station.
• Accessibility:  The square is wheelchair accessible