Looking for the best things to do in Hudson Yards? From exploring the Vessel and visiting The Shed to shopping, skyline views, rooftop bars, and food markets, this sleek and modern district in New York City has plenty to offer.

The skyline of the city at sunset showcases modern skyscrapers with sleek glass exteriors, complemented by construction cranes in the vibrant district of Hudson Yards.
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I’m Hazel, a British travel blogger based just outside London. I walked here from Chelsea Market along the High Line and spent a full day soaking up the vibes, views, and vino. It’s the kind of place that surprises you in all the best ways.

You can read more about my walk along the High Line here, and don’t forget to check out my full review of the Edge too.

Let’s dive into 12 cool things to do in Hudson Yards!

1. Head Up to Edge Observation Deck 🌇

Sky-high and seriously thrilling, Edge is the highest outdoor sky deck in the Western Hemisphere. Located at 30 Hudson Yards, this platform juts out into thin air with glass floors, angled walls, and 360-degree views of NYC.

A modern skyscraper with an angled roof hosts The Edge Platform, an external observation deck where a group of people marvels at the city view.
Aerial cityscape view of a bustling city at dusk with Edge NYC towering above the river on the left, tall buildings, and illuminated streets.
The Edge platform, and the view from the Edge

You can see the Empire State Building, the Statue of Liberty, and all five boroughs on a clear day.

Brave enough? Book the City Climb to scale the outside of the skyscraper! (No drinks beforehand – they’ll check.)

Read more in my Edge NYC guide.

Aerial view of Hudson River New York City at sunset

2. Gawk at The Vessel 🌀

This honeycomb-style art installation is one of NYC’s most iconic photo ops. It’s 16 stories tall, made up of 154 staircases, and stands proudly at the heart of Hudson Yards.

A multi-tiered, honeycomb-like structure with staircases, the Vessel at Hudson Yards rises grandly, surrounded by trees and set against a clear sky.
The Vessel at Hudson Yards

📍 Good news: After being closed for a few years, The Vessel is now open in 2026 with enhanced safety measures in place.

Whether you choose to climb part of it or admire those looping staircases from the plaza, it’s a must‑see photo stop while you’re in Hudson Yards.

3. Shop (or Window Shop) the Hudson Yards Mall 💼

Inside The Shops at Hudson Yards, you’ll find big-name luxury brands like Dior, Gucci, and Louis Vuitton, plus high-street staples like Zara and H&M.

The bustling shopping mall, featuring glass storefronts such as Neiman Marcus, is reminiscent of the vibrant Hudson Yards shops. Shoppers leisurely stroll along the pathways outside.
Hudson Yards shops

There’s also Magnolia Bakery, Shake Shack, and Blue Bottle Coffee for tasty pit stops.

Fancy chocolates? La Maison du Chocolat is a sweet treat.

4. See a Show at The Shed 🎭

This futuristic cultural hub has a roof that slides open and closed, transforming the space for concerts, plays, exhibitions, and more. It’s one of the coolest venues in NYC for art lovers and curious travellers alike.

A modern building with a geometric facade stands amid the skyscrapers at Hudson Yards, surrounded by greenery and a walkway lined with black bollards, with The Shed's striking architectural style.
The Shed

Check their calendar for live music, installations, and offbeat workshops.

5. Relax in the Gardens 🌿

Need a break from skyscrapers and shops? The public square and gardens at Hudson Yards offer leafy seating areas, playgrounds, fountains, and sculptures.

Bring a coffee and people-watch, or sip a craft beer in the sun.

A hand holds a plastic cup of beer in an urban oasis at Hudson Yards, with trees and sleek buildings framing the background.
The image captures a modern architectural structure with geometric panels next to a tall, honeycomb-like building in Hudson Yards. Greenery flourishes in the foreground, offering a serene complement to one of the many things to explore in this vibrant area.

6. Gallery Hop 🎨

Hudson Yards is home to several contemporary art galleries worth checking out:

A gallery room in Hudson Yards NYC displays three abstract paintings on white walls. A black cushioned chair and a small round table are situated in the corner. Text on the wall reads "MARCOS ANZIANI STORYTELLING.
A gallery corner in Hudson Yards NYC with abstract paintings on the walls, featuring a small round table and two modern chairs. An indoor plant sits on the table. Artwork by Daniel Adel is displayed.

Plus, keep an eye out for public art and pop-up installations across the plaza.

7. Eat Your Way Through Mercado Little Spain 🇪🇸

This bustling Spanish market hall is packed with tapas, paella, churros, and sangria. It’s the culinary creation of chef José Andrés, and it’s heaven for foodies.

Grab a seat at one of the bars or graze from vendor to vendor.

The entrance to Mercado Little Spain, featuring large red signage and glass doors with decorative patterns.

8. Walk the High Line 🏞️

Start (or end) your Hudson Yards adventure with a stroll on the High Line – a leafy, elevated park built on old railway tracks. There are benches, skyline views, wildflowers, and pop-up art to enjoy along the way.

A modern building with curved glass balconies stands elegantly beside sculptures in a landscaped area, on the Highline Park NYC, under a clear blue sky.
The High Line

👉 Read my full guide to walking the High Line from Chelsea to Hudson Yards.

9. Sip Cocktails With a View 🍻

Hudson Yards is rooftop central. Try these for a drink with a backdrop:

  • Edge Bar: Sip your spritz at the top of the world.
  • Electric Lemon: Chic rooftop with sunset views and seasonal bites.
  • Peak: On the 101st floor, it’s got full-on drama with skyline cocktails.

Here are some of the rooftop bars you can check out in Hudson Yards:

10. Admire the Architecture 🏛️

The skyscrapers in Hudson Yards are an architect’s dream. Marvel at 30 Hudson Yards (home to Edge), the swooping glass of 35 Hudson Yards, or the angular beauty of 10 and 55 Hudson Yards.

A person with long hair gazes at the Hudson Yards skyline, where tall, modern glass skyscrapers cut into a partly cloudy sky.
Hudson Yards

Each building has a story, and a striking look. Bring your wide-angle lens.

11. Try a Fancy Dinner 🍽️

Book a table at:

  • The Peak: For dinner with a view.
  • Estiatorio Milos: Mediterranean seafood perfection.
  • Wild Ink: Inventive Asian fusion.
  • Electric Lemon: Modern American with a seasonal focus.

Or just grab something casual downstairs at Mercado Little Spain.

12. Join a Tour 🌎

A guided tour helps you see Hudson Yards from a whole new angle. Here are a few to try:

Tall modern skyscrapers of Edge NYC peek through lush green foliage and a wire fence, as railway tracks lead the way towards the vibrant city.
Hudson Yards

Helpful Tips for Visiting Hudson Yards 📝

🗺️ Getting There: Take the 7 train to 34th Street-Hudson Yards. You can also walk from Penn Station or stroll up the High Line from Chelsea.

🕒 Best Time to Visit: Late afternoon into evening for fewer crowds and golden hour views from Edge.

🎟️ Book Ahead: If you’re planning to visit Edge or The Shed, booking tickets online in advance can save time and hassle.

🥾 Wear Comfy Shoes: You’ll be walking a lot, especially if you’re tackling the High Line too.

📷 Charge Your Phone: So many good photo spots, from skyscrapers and street art to that epic Edge view.

🍴 Hungry? Grab casual eats at Mercado Little Spain or treat yourself to fine dining at Peak.

Where to stay at Hudson Yards.

Here are my top picks in or near Hudson Yards on Booking.com:

Alternatively you could check out the current deals on all NYC hotels on Booking.com here. I recommend reserving your room immediately to get the best price. It’s usually free to reserve, and you can always cancel later on. Most properties on Booking.com allow free cancellation up to the day before the booking date.

Map: Things to Do in Hudson Yards NYC 📍

Check out this custom Google Map with all the attractions listed above. Click the blue icons for info and tap the star to save it for later!

FAQs About Visiting Hudson Yards 💡

Q: Is Hudson Yards worth visiting?

Yes! Whether you’re into skyline views, shopping, food, or art, Hudson Yards has something cool for everyone, and it’s a lot more fun than you’d expect.

Q: Do you need tickets to visit Hudson Yards?

Nope! It’s a public area, so you can stroll around, visit shops, and enjoy the outdoor spaces for free. Only attractions like Edge or certain shows at The Shed require tickets.

Q: What’s the best time to go to Hudson Yards?

Late afternoon into evening is perfect. Shop or explore while it’s light, then watch sunset from Edge or enjoy dinner with city views.

Q: Can you walk from the High Line to Hudson Yards?

Yes, the High Line leads directly into Hudson Yards. It’s a scenic, easy walk and one of the best ways to arrive.

Q: Is The Vessel open to climb?

Yes, ticket reservations have reopened for 2026. You can also just admire it from the plaza (and yes, it’s still very Instagrammable).

Q: Are there good spots to visit alone in Hudson Yards?

Yes! Hudson Yards is great for solo travellers – you can take in views from Edge, enjoy art at The Shed, or explore the High Line on your own schedule.

Q: Is it safe to visit Hudson Yards solo?

Definitely. Hudson Yards is a well-lit, modern, and busy part of NYC with lots of foot traffic. Just follow usual big city safety tips and you’ll be fine.

  • Get your Edge tickets here.
  • Get your NYC Go City passes here.
  • This is the best mid-range hotel in Manhattan.
  • Looking for SUMMIT One Vanderbilt? Read my post here or get SUMMIT tickets here.
  • Try booking a Hudson Yards Tour to learn about this inventive new area of NYC.

Close-up of a modern building facade with glass windows and angular, The Vessel, copper-colored metalwork.
The glass skyscrapers surround a unique, tiered structure with a honeycomb design, reminiscent of the Vessel's architectural charm.

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