Union Square Park

One of my favorite places in the city. It’s always alive with people, food, music, markets, artists, art, skateboarders, commuters, musicians, color, movement and life! The markets tend to the pricey side, but I still love to wander around and look at everything. It look at these gorgeous floral arrangements from a winter market day! Makes me so happy just to wander around.

Union Square is beautiful and full of prospering small businesses. Had a wonderful day today supporting the local craftsmen & women. Beautiful arts and crafts on display everywhere.

I’ve always loved Union Square and the unique vendors who bring life to the area. I shop here often, and it’s wonderful to find such reasonably priced items—from paintings and jewelry to scarves and little art pieces. I love the atmosphere, especially in the late afternoon when there’s music and everything feels so peaceful and perfect. I live nearby and often pass by to see if there’s anything new, and I’m proud of the culture and community that this place brings. Every time friends visit me in New York, Union Square is a must-stop to show them this vibrant part of the city. But recently, things have changed. One day, while browsing, I suddenly saw vendors packing up as a group of officers in green suits were moving through, telling everyone to leave and saying they couldn’t come back. It was shocking to see the space empty out so suddenly. Now, instead of the community I love, there’s construction noise from the Christmas market. I feel so disappointed, and I’m not sure if this is the new policy from the new president, but Union Square has changed. It’s not a place for all the people and culture anymore. Don’t come.

### Review of Union Square Park, NYC Union Square Park, nestled in the heart of Manhattan at the intersection of 14th Street, Union Square East, and Broadway, is a quintessential New York City landmark that embodies the city’s vibrant energy and cultural diversity. As one of the oldest public spaces in NYC, it has evolved into a hub for recreation, commerce, and activism, offering something for everyone. #### **Design and Layout** The park’s design strikes a balance between urban functionality and natural beauty. Lush greenery, well-maintained flower beds, and iconic statues such as the equestrian George Washington statue make it a visual delight. Benches line the walkways, offering visitors places to relax while shaded by mature trees, especially during warmer months. The park’s layout, although compact, is thoughtfully designed to accommodate diverse activities, from leisurely strolls to lively public gatherings. #### **Cultural Significance** Union Square is not just a park; it is a cultural and historical landmark. It has been a center for political activism since the 19th century and remains a space for protests, rallies, and community events. Its location also connects several neighborhoods, making it a melting pot of people from all walks of life. This blend of historic gravitas and modern relevance gives the park a unique character, reflective of New York City itself. #### **Activities and Attractions** Union Square Park is bustling with activity throughout the day. One of its most notable features is the Union Square Greenmarket, held multiple times a week. Farmers, bakers, and artisans from across the region offer fresh produce, flowers, and handcrafted goods, making it a haven for foodies and eco-conscious shoppers. The seasonal Holiday Market is another highlight, attracting locals and tourists alike with its festive atmosphere and unique gifts. For families, the park offers a well-designed playground, while fitness enthusiasts make use of its open spaces for yoga, tai chi, or impromptu workouts. Chess players can be seen engrossed in games at the tables near the northern end, adding a touch of intellectual charm to the park’s dynamic ambiance. #### **Accessibility and Surroundings** Union Square Park is exceptionally accessible, served by multiple subway lines and bus routes. Its proximity to retail stores, restaurants, and cafes makes it a convenient spot for a break during a busy day in Manhattan. The surrounding area is dotted with attractions such as the Strand Bookstore, a favorite for book lovers, and multiple theaters and performance venues. #### **Challenges** While the park is generally well-maintained, its popularity can lead to overcrowding, especially during peak hours and events. Noise from the surrounding streets can sometimes disrupt the tranquility, although it is an intrinsic part of the urban experience. #### **Conclusion** Union Square Park is a microcosm of New York City, blending history, culture, and daily life into a vibrant urban oasis. Whether you’re looking to relax, shop at the Greenmarket, or experience NYC’s community spirit, Union Square Park offers an enriching experience. Despite minor challenges, it stands as a testament to the city’s enduring charm and dynamism. A visit here isn’t just a stroll in the park—it’s an immersion into the soul of Manhattan.

I went to Farmers Market on Saturday, October 12th. The area around Union Square is always full of vitality.

Park in a central location, not maintained. There are shaded seating areas with chairs and tables. There is a playground for children including a small splash pad. A great place to refresh in the summer.

Absolutely stunning on Christmas eve with the snow & holiday market. Great place to visit for free!

Large park right as you exit the subway. Lots of trees and benches. Lots of welcome shade if you’re in the city on a hot summer’s day. A daily market with booths on the Broadway side. Benches surround the perimeter of the park. Nice place, but I never feel very safe here. Lots of teens smoking, plus some homeless

One of my favorite places in the city. It’s always alive with people, food, music, markets, artists, art, skateboarders, commuters, musicians, color, movement and life! The markets tend to the pricey side, but I still love to wander around and look at everything. It look at these gorgeous floral arrangements from a winter market day! Makes me so happy just to wander around.

Union Square is beautiful and full of prospering small businesses. Had a wonderful day today supporting the local craftsmen & women. Beautiful arts and crafts on display everywhere.

I’ve always loved Union Square and the unique vendors who bring life to the area. I shop here often, and it’s wonderful to find such reasonably priced items—from paintings and jewelry to scarves and little art pieces. I love the atmosphere, especially in the late afternoon when there’s music and everything feels so peaceful and perfect. I live nearby and often pass by to see if there’s anything new, and I’m proud of the culture and community that this place brings. Every time friends visit me in New York, Union Square is a must-stop to show them this vibrant part of the city. But recently, things have changed. One day, while browsing, I suddenly saw vendors packing up as a group of officers in green suits were moving through, telling everyone to leave and saying they couldn’t come back. It was shocking to see the space empty out so suddenly. Now, instead of the community I love, there’s construction noise from the Christmas market. I feel so disappointed, and I’m not sure if this is the new policy from the new president, but Union Square has changed. It’s not a place for all the people and culture anymore. Don’t come.

### Review of Union Square Park, NYC Union Square Park, nestled in the heart of Manhattan at the intersection of 14th Street, Union Square East, and Broadway, is a quintessential New York City landmark that embodies the city’s vibrant energy and cultural diversity. As one of the oldest public spaces in NYC, it has evolved into a hub for recreation, commerce, and activism, offering something for everyone. #### **Design and Layout** The park’s design strikes a balance between urban functionality and natural beauty. Lush greenery, well-maintained flower beds, and iconic statues such as the equestrian George Washington statue make it a visual delight. Benches line the walkways, offering visitors places to relax while shaded by mature trees, especially during warmer months. The park’s layout, although compact, is thoughtfully designed to accommodate diverse activities, from leisurely strolls to lively public gatherings. #### **Cultural Significance** Union Square is not just a park; it is a cultural and historical landmark. It has been a center for political activism since the 19th century and remains a space for protests, rallies, and community events. Its location also connects several neighborhoods, making it a melting pot of people from all walks of life. This blend of historic gravitas and modern relevance gives the park a unique character, reflective of New York City itself. #### **Activities and Attractions** Union Square Park is bustling with activity throughout the day. One of its most notable features is the Union Square Greenmarket, held multiple times a week. Farmers, bakers, and artisans from across the region offer fresh produce, flowers, and handcrafted goods, making it a haven for foodies and eco-conscious shoppers. The seasonal Holiday Market is another highlight, attracting locals and tourists alike with its festive atmosphere and unique gifts. For families, the park offers a well-designed playground, while fitness enthusiasts make use of its open spaces for yoga, tai chi, or impromptu workouts. Chess players can be seen engrossed in games at the tables near the northern end, adding a touch of intellectual charm to the park’s dynamic ambiance. #### **Accessibility and Surroundings** Union Square Park is exceptionally accessible, served by multiple subway lines and bus routes. Its proximity to retail stores, restaurants, and cafes makes it a convenient spot for a break during a busy day in Manhattan. The surrounding area is dotted with attractions such as the Strand Bookstore, a favorite for book lovers, and multiple theaters and performance venues. #### **Challenges** While the park is generally well-maintained, its popularity can lead to overcrowding, especially during peak hours and events. Noise from the surrounding streets can sometimes disrupt the tranquility, although it is an intrinsic part of the urban experience. #### **Conclusion** Union Square Park is a microcosm of New York City, blending history, culture, and daily life into a vibrant urban oasis. Whether you’re looking to relax, shop at the Greenmarket, or experience NYC’s community spirit, Union Square Park offers an enriching experience. Despite minor challenges, it stands as a testament to the city’s enduring charm and dynamism. A visit here isn’t just a stroll in the park—it’s an immersion into the soul of Manhattan.

I went to Farmers Market on Saturday, October 12th. The area around Union Square is always full of vitality.

Park in a central location, not maintained. There are shaded seating areas with chairs and tables. There is a playground for children including a small splash pad. A great place to refresh in the summer.

Absolutely stunning on Christmas eve with the snow & holiday market. Great place to visit for free!

Large park right as you exit the subway. Lots of trees and benches. Lots of welcome shade if you’re in the city on a hot summer’s day. A daily market with booths on the Broadway side. Benches surround the perimeter of the park. Nice place, but I never feel very safe here. Lots of teens smoking, plus some homeless

I love Union Square, everytime I go there. Wether it's just browsing through the vegetables, fruits, breads, honey or herbs markets, it's a delight to see the freshness of it all. The wonderful Whole Food is across the street from the park along with amazing stores that everyone loves. Union Square is always crowded. I've gone to see the Thai Monks for a couple of Saturdays with my aunt Sue, who had invited me to go with her. They were situated behind the small gate that gave them space in the park, on the west side. These Thai Monks has a title "Walk for World Peace." They had walked from Miami, Florida to Niagra Falls already and are planning to walk in the Scandinavian countries. So, around 11:00 am, the 6 Monks would line up to received food from the attendees. It was put in the large bowls that they carried. Then they can eat after the prayers. After that, the attendees may eat. Omg!! So much Thai food, that was brought by each attendees, were delicious. Everyone relaxed and chatted with one another after the meals. Funds were raised by the attendees for the Monks. It was a great event.

I stopped by Union Square for the first time in years when I traveled to NYC for a spontaneous solo weekend for Labor Day last weekend. The Union Square Greenmarket is open Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays year-round from 8am to 6pm, and it's definitely worth checking out. Great produce, beautiful flowers, and delicious food (if you're there for a meal rather than shopping). A great selection of vendors and you can find so much. I think it was one of the first farmers markets I ever visited when I attended college in New York years ago, and I still love it today. I definitely recommend checking out the market at Union Square if you're in the area on a Monday, Wednesday, Friday, or Saturday!

MANHATTAN/Flatiron: Union Square is a public park with walking paths, sculptures, a dog park, home to pop-up shopping markets, events, and is surrounded by dining and shopping. Leashed dogs are allowed in the park and can be off-leash at the dog run.

PUBLIC PARK: A Park which opened in 1839 and features a Statue of GEORGE WASHINGTON, the first President of the UNITED STATES (1789-1797). Growing up this Park was a mess before renovations improved the area drastically. Attended a few HEAVY METAL concerts in my youth at the PALLADIUM (1927-1997) which was down the block from UNION SQUARE. The GREENMARKET where Produce, Baked Goods and other items are sold is located in the Park. WORTH VISITING.

Not a true New Yorker if you don't love this park!!! It's a nice mini oasis and gives you a little escape from the world. The chess players playing speed chess, the crisp morning air... So many wonderful stores nearby to check out too! + Whole Foods + Trader Joe's + Breads + Gorgeous Flower shops Don't forget their farmer's markets and also the Holiday market every year! IG: QueenOfAdventureNYC

We stayed at a hotel in the Flatiron District and wandered over here several times, once on a walking tour and then on our own. There was a wonderful farmers market and art market going on, one day we accessed the subway stop to get on a line we needed, and there always seems to be a protest or gathering going on. This is what a public space should be.

An enjoyable park smack dab in Manhattan with a lot of foot traffic. I like coming here to walk with friends, or just passing by here when we're on the way to something, or chilling here and eating outside on the benches.

Opened in 1839 and redesigned in 1872 by Frederick Law Olmsted and Calvert Vaux to accommodate mass congregations of New Yorkers, Union Square Park has served as home base for countless community events and festivals-from the first Labor Day parade in 1882 to workers' rallies in the 1930s to the first Earth Day in 1970 to the current, wildly popular Greenmarket. This former burial ground has seamlessly transitioned from a town square to a bustling City park, and as such, it is the deserved home of statues depicting distinguished men like George Washington, Abraham Lincoln, Mohandas Gandhi, and Marquis de Lafayette. We enjoy sitting and watching the city unfold in front of our eyes, minute by minute....people rushing to work, people ready to exercise, people going shopping....it's just a nice busy place.....

I went down to the Community Protest against Monsanto/GMO poisoning our foods.

Beautiful scenery here surrounding the whole entire area and everywhere you look there's something to see that's just stunning and I know it sounds a little bit over-the-top, but if you've never been here before, you would think this, especially with Central Park. I believe this is the fountain area where Bill Murray is filmed in Ghostbusters two where he's mimicking the guy on rollerblades and start spinning around after walking away from a conversation With Sigourney Weaver.

A nice park. It is a busy park. In the spring time, they have the farmer market happening here. It is a great place to chill. I came here because it was one of the listed tourist spots to visit. There is a nice play area for kids at the end of the park. The park itself is located in the center of the NYC Manhattan. The park itself is huge. At the park, you will find the entrance to the Subway station. Yes the park has a lot of open space.

The dog run is always dirty with poop all over the place. Never maintained and smell terribl.

when I walked by today there was a little farmers market going on. It's nice to pick up some fruit and some baked goods and a little lavender gifts. I was beyond thrilled to have this icy cold mint lemonade drink that was sweetened with fresh maple syrup. Gently!! I didn't catch any bands playing today but they're usually is a band or musical artist.

Union Square is a park that has a good amount of foot traffic as it's near a lot of shops and some metro stations. The Greenmarket is a farmers market that occurs four days a week all year round. It's one of the many nice parks in New York that make for great people watching and sitting around.

Another National Historic Monument in NYC and another quintessential NYC in the fall location. It's a great people-watching spot..beautiful statues and walkways lined with trees. There's a dog park in the middle as well. My heart goes out to the homeless people in the area.

Happy Earth Day! Today's review is park focused. Pen a review on a park today! Spread the Earth Day love! I just returned from a work trip to the Big Apple and what can I say except, "I love New York." There's just something about a park in the midst of a city you have to appreciate. There are vendors here and musicians and protests and runners and chess....It's spring, so plenty of fresh colors are popping and trees are budding. It was warmer in the morning and the temperature was comfortable to walk around without a coat. I'll take all of that! You can get from A to Z here via subway and everything is pretty much at your fingertips surrounding this park. The best of both worlds. A park in a city. I'm not in Kansas anymore, am I? Cheers to you, Big Apple!

Beautiful park along 14th street... there are plenty of nice restaurants and street markets to make for fun fanfare for everybody. The magnanimous statues around the park add to its appeal to make it more than just a tiny city park. It is also in a nice part of the city. Expensive, but nice. Gramercy and Chelsea are close by if you are looking for quaintness. Summer times make for fun times here if you are looking for that. I look forward to spending some more time here once Covid eases up.

This is a great place to come and stop by when you want to enjoy the weather, go out for a walk, and check out the local market! Great atmosphere, people watching, and always a good time out in Union Square!

I find myself here quite often these days. It's a great spot to meet up with friends, have a protest, attend random events that occasionally pops up. Remember when Pokemon Go first came out? Yeah I was there standing with the thousands of others. There's nothing quite like people watching and maybe witness some awkward dates. Besides that, the greenmarket is hosted here where you can get some fresh produce from local farms and other businesses. You can try to out hustle a chess hustler. There doesn't appear to be a dog park, but looks like they're in the middle of finally constructing one. There's even a kids playground in the North. So this place will have it all. Also on 14th street a great photo spot to capture Manhattanhenge.

Union Square Park is a small park that is pretty close to a lot of different shops. We walked to this park because we wanted to check it out before we headed to the Flat Iron Building. There is also a Nordstrom Rack quite close to this park. Whole Foods, Vans and even SEPHORA. Plenty of shops and cafes as well. So overall if you want you'll be able to walk around the area and find something to do. The park itself does have benches and you can see plenty of people passing through it. Having parks in the cities are wonderful and also just feels nicer. Even though this park is small I think it's still good that they have it here. You can't have too many parks in a city. Tip- There is a subway stop here called Union Square.

Definitely a happenin' spot in Manhattan! Union Square is filled with tons of eateries, shopping, and bright city lights. There's a subway station that will take you right into the park. The park itself isn't anything to gloat about, but it's a popular hangout and meeting point amongst locals and tourists alike. The courtyard has lots of benches and wide open spaces for lounging. During the summertime, the farmer's market is huge here! It's a bustling area that stays busy from morning until night. During the night time, this part of the city really glows. You'll have some great views of many of the NYC landmarks, The Empire State Building being one of the most prominent. It's a gorgeous area that's worth visiting if you're hanging out in the Downtown Manhattan area.

Good place to come to enjoy and relax. You will see a younger crowd in here. University crowd. Perhaps in combination of NYU and Baruch crowd and with other crowd. There are a lot of skaters and street performers here performing. It has its weekly organic market during the weekends. Great place to come to chill and relax!

Union Square is a vital piece of New York's infrastructure. Numerous trains transfer to the L here and it's an easy destination for meeting people. The shopping options are robust and feature many big name stores, while the farmer's market allows you to bring fresh goods right to your table. Bike paths run through the area but be careful biking on Broadway due to all the roadwork, vehicles, pedestrians, and wrong-way deliveristas. The park is a classic New York space where people from all walks of life converge to hang out, perform, work a trade, take a break, or simply pass the time. The benches lining the central pathway are prime real estate. Seated among the trees, on a warm day, when the noise of the city briefly fades, it's one of the most tranquil places this side of Central Park. The Square also serves as a gateway between neighborhoods. Going from Kips Bay to Greenwich Village? NoHo to Flatiron? East Village to Chelsea? There's a good chance you'll pass through Union Square, making use of the many route options it provides. Union Square is an integral and resilient part of New York's landscape. 5 big ol' stars on the Yelp app. Well deserved.

It was a chill park that I met up with my friend. We sat and chatted but it was hard to find setting. There was live music which was cool to sit and listen to. It's a huge park so good for families or a date at the park.

If you like live free style. Fridays until November. Nice crowd. No beat is missed with a lyricist. There are rules and respect. Very organized. Good. Very good energy.

Union Square is a pretty cool part of the city, although it seems to have never-ending construction work which still seems to be going on now, which appears in photos from even five years prior, it is a rather nice place to spend some time and is also home to some big brands including Whole Foods and Vapiano, although the latter really is pretty poor compared to branches across Europe in Netherlands and Germany for example. A rather small park right in the centre with a statue too, which is still a pretty nice area despite it lacking anything too special which gives it a USP to stand out compared to the vast number of parks around the city. It does have its' own subway station, sharing its' name which makes it pretty easy to get to from around the city. A small park which is central to public transit and a load of shops and restaurants, it does get busy, however (but where doesn't in New York City?!) 3*

Making my way to the strand bookstore I hoped on the subway and this station was the closest to that area. As I exited the train there was a young band playing music inside the station. It was nice to listen to and you couldn't help but to hear it as it echoes throughout the station. They gathered up a nice size crowed and many people listening along--some were dancing. Everyone had a smile on their faces--perhaps it's true that music heals all. While all of that was going on inside there was more entertainment just outside the station. Another large crowd of people watch a man put on a show with help from the audience. There were about five people in the middle and I presume he was going to attempt to jump over all of them. I missed that part as I didn't stay too long in one place. Although it can get crowded it is a very nice and clean place to be. There are also steps that anyone can sit down and have a picnic as there is a whole foods directly across the street.

Union Square is a great park along Broadway. It's located away from the craziness of Times Square. This is the part of Broadway before it gets to Tribeca. It still can get crowded. There's a market usually on weekends. A lot is happening in and around. It's located above the train station. This makes it pretty easy to get to. Broadway runs along the east. There's usually some kind of artistic performance going on. It's free entertainment. There's usually good places to sit. Be sure to go to the market. This is usually on the weekends. It has many great independent businesses. There's a good amount of organic and vegetarian friendly options. It may not be as hip as Greenwich. It still draws quite the artistic crowd. There's a whole bunch of shopping options along Broadway and other streets.

Love love love Union Square. I really enjoyed spending some time here last weekend while in the city visiting a friend. There was a farmers market when I visited, which was delightful. The vendors were all so nice and clearly passionate about what they do. I purchased some mask refresher spray from the vendor "Zaddy Earth," such a fun purchase! It seemed like there was always something going on here as I passed through and it's such a nice part of town. If you're in the area, I'd definitely recommend rolling through, especially if it's on the weekend when the farmers market is there. There's plenty of good food and drinks in this area. I love how all the neighborhoods of New York feel like their own unique cities with lots of personality. Union Square definitely gives a lot of charm to this area!

Well I was justa walkin' down the street just havin' a think & envisioning Androids fighting as my tendancy is to swing a right outta the train & drop in at Forbidden Planet. But before Flash Gordon there was George Washington whose bronze statue stands proudly in the very center of the park. The first statue erected in New York City, the 14th Street viewing point is clearly the best option. As you approach, look just beyond the statue to the horseshoe run of trees as they provide our first President with shelter, replanted just a few years after the statues inception. Planted by --- Olmstead himself, the architect of Central Park in roughly 1845. So much more history surrounds Union Square with four too five towns all converging expanses ending here.

Excellent park, lots of shaded benches, a dog run, and a thriving market where you can buy fresh produce and other comestibles, as well as art, jewelry, etc. You might see a political action or Hare Krishna chanting. Play chess if you dare!

So, what is Union Square you may ask? Well, I wasn't really sure either, so with a little google investigation here is what I found: This is a historic intersection as well as a neighborhood in Manhattan (NYC). Located where Broadway and Fourth Avenue (previously Bowery) - came together in the early 19th century. It's name means "here was the union of the two principal thoroughfares of the island". There is more, but in a nut shell that's what this is about. When I arrived it was a rainy afternoon and I was on my way to Irving Plaza. There are sculptures and grass areas (currently unavailable for reseeding) as well as train (subway) access. I'd like to return when it's a little nicer outside and they don't have so much construction. It's really kind of cool that you can be in the middle of such a massive city and they have places like this for people to get out of the crazy for a few minutes. Nice space, would recommend swinging by if you're in the area.

New York city's park that is always filled with artists, local merchants. Great place to people watch. It also hosts on Monday's Wednesday's Friday's and on Saturday's the biggest and most popular farmers market is still open. Come support your local merchants and farmers. Prices are reasonable and not inflated. Fresh produce as the spring season continues to roll in. Ramps, baby potatoes, baby carrots galore

I love walking through here when the markets are open. They have year round markets. Today the holiday one was set up so in addition to the farm stands there were lots of booths to Christmas Shop. A lot of fun to walk through.

I forgot how cool this spot in Manhattan is, Union Square is filled with tons of eateries, shopping, and bright city lights. I walk here but there's a subway station that will take you right into the park. The park itself isn't anything to super, but it's a popular hangout and meeting point for locals and tourists alike. I found out the during the summertime, the farmer's market is huge here! It's a bustling area that stays busy from morning until night.

This has been, and always will be once of my favorite places in the city. Whether you're a teenager skateboarding or a corporate exec sitting on a bench and eating your lunch, Union Square is a place where people from all walks of life congregate to be themselves. In the summer it serves as a place with everything from chess tournaments to food festivals. You may get some random music popping up by a musician or you may see a pop up protest for any given issue. Regardless, it's place that is never the same twice, if you like surprises. In the winter it's beautiful around Christmas time. When the booths set up with various holiday foods, trinkets and music, it's one of the best places to be in the city. Ask any New Yorker and they'll tell you this area is a must at least once during the holiday season. In addition to that, there are lots of good surrounding restaurants in case you want to tie it all together.

Lovely market with the thrills of fresh produce, lavender pillows and succulents as samples when walking through this place during farmer's market. I got my sun in for the day. Convenient spot for meet ups and pretty central to a lot of things.

What draws me here is the hodgepodge of culture and creativity. Hustlers allll over whether chess playing, dancing harikrishnas, street art vendors or ladies w/ fresh mango. Dope place to people watch and shop, just very busy- There are stampedes of people and nonstop traffic but many places to sit and watch it all unfold

Union Square. I spent so many afternoons here after school let out back in my high school days. This was our preferred hang spot. Why? Because of the massive Barnes and Noble behind us, Whole Foods in front of us and all the shopping store around. The fact that so many trains come here and it's a great people watching spot was unimportant to us. Now as an adult, those are some of the reasons why I love coming here. I love to come here for the Farmer's Market to scope out all the lovely veggies and fruits and cheeses and the like for sale in the fall. In the summer I like to come here for the art for sale everywhere and the holiday market is also a gem. The bathrooms seem to have been replaced with loads of port-a-potties around the perimeter of the park. Not a big deal since I make it a point not to use public restrooms if I can help it. (I'm easily grossed out by even the most minor of offenses.) It's really fun to overlook the whole park from the cafe on the third floor of B&N and see what everyone else is doing. You run into lots of protesting being done here and really it's the perfect spot for it because of it's visibility and location. (Graduated from a school who believed in letting us out of class to go protest and more often than not, it was always happening here.) For some people the crowds would be irritating but for me it isn't. Being in introvert, I like being lost in a crowd in park/marketplace because it allows me to be around others without having to really interact. Best of both worlds really.

Union Square is a few blocks downtown Manhatten that has everything. Shopping and restaurants everywhere. You can probably eat every meal for weeks at a different place each meal. There's a big park here too. Plenty of subways and buses closeby.

Friday and Saturday farmers market, go once or twice, just GO!!! Don't miss the best assortment of food wine and cheese from the best New York State agriculture and farms have to offer right here in NYC- No tolls required !! Beautiful spring flowers and quite an arrangement of fungi ! Go next weekend and grab some local love from the hard working NYS farming families! Don't forget a tasting of Moonshine, bootlegged from Connecticut-

Yuppies, hipsters and tourists, OH MY! Crazy section of the city that has tons of stores and people. There is a nice park in the middle of the chaos. When people say "let's brunch", this is where most people end up. I feel as though I am too old for this area...

Five enthusiastic stars for this lively, happening park. Not to dis any other parks, but Union has its own unique history, culture and atmosphere. I love it because of all these things and more. This is not a park where you come to meditate, but it is the park where you can meet up with a friend, sit on a bench and have a coffee and even bring your baby (I'm referring, of course, to dogs. There is a dog park here, but that is a separate review). Union Square has so much life - like the Greenmarket (another, separate review), charity functions like dog rescue fund raisers, protests/demonstrations and just the daily passersby that make this park wonderful. This park is special because of all these things. You can bring a blanket to sit on the grass or sit on a bench. Great spot to meet friends/make friends. Conveniently located where east meets west. I've loved this park for years and will never stop.

Quite nice square to hang out at! Went here for the first time with my cousin and we just chilled here while waiting for some other friends. I loved the atmosphere of the park. The atmosphere was so welcoming and the attitude here is to soak in each minute at a time with those around you. Citi bank was hosting bubble mania for those at the park, and the little kids went crazy over the bubbles...I partook somewhat in bubble making ;)

Another favorite place to hang out on a sunny day! I love to go to the Green Market! There are plenty of food places and shopping in the neighborhood. The artists sell their goods. People play chess. It's a typical NYC experience. This is another park that has a ton of history behind it. Read the plaques along the perimeter. You can spend hours soaking up the history of this city!! I intend to return to get pictures of the plaques.

We've walked through this square during the market on several visits to NYC. There are many stands with lots of good looking fruits and vegetables, food, and craft items. We enjoy looking at the all the vendors' products but don't buy anything since we are just visiting the city and don't want the burden of carrying any purchases. Nevertheless, we do enjoy looking around.

Do you ever feel like the city has died for you? That all the business vacancies are like the dormant accounts of your long lost Yelp friends? Everybody has just "moved on". Well, Union Square is the salve for those memories and can be a place to build new ones. There is always something new to do there within walking distance. You can always squeeze onto an overcrowded bench because it's necessary. Hit the farmer's market. See some sand art. Eat your lunch in the park and people watch. Make an easy connection to a number of subway lines. Union Square is the quad (even though no one says that anymore) of your imaginary campus that is New York City. In a city is reborn again and again, this is always a great place to start.

When my son was younger, he would practice his Diabolos (also called Chinese Yo-Yos), in the middle of Union Square Park. He was so good that he would draw large crowds! He flip them in mid air, I just hung in the background watching him do his thing. While my son was doing his thing, there are others with the same agenda. Some folks would talk about the US bank failure and have pamphlets to back up their theories, chess players, but the best are the folks giving free hugs. Now, anything for free I question. I'd walk up to them and mess with them: If I get a free hug are you gonna put a sign on my back saying KICK ME (I took a free hug from a 20 year old girl, no sign was on my back) Over the years I've seen movies being filmed, the famous Farmers Market, Big Gay Ice Cream truck got its start here and if you can believe it, the subway is here! Union Square Park - Its a small but always active and fun park

This is a square in a busy area in Manhattan. People hangout here a lot or have their lunches. There's a George Washington statue here. You can see the art installation Metronome from here. There's a subway line in the middle of this square as well. Squares are important because it breaks up all of the close buildings and allows for a space where people can chill, rest, or hangout within the city. There are small markets like farmer's market that take place here too. The square isn't as beautiful as I expected it to be. It's also a refuge where homeless people sometimes hangout. I crossed paths with the square when going to Strands bookstore.