The Vessel at Hudson Yards

The Vessel at Hudson Yards is one of the most distinctive and iconic architectural landmarks in New York City, located in the heart of Hudson Yards on Manhattan’s West Side. Designed by British architect Thomas Heatherwick and opened in 2019, The Vessel has become a must-see attraction for both locals and visitors due to its striking honeycomb-like structure and incredible views of the city and the Hudson River. With 154 interconnected staircases, 80 landings, and 2,500 steps, this interactive piece of public art offers a unique way to experience NYC from different heights and angles.

Key Details About The Vessel

• Location: Hudson Yards, between 30th and 34th Streets, and 10th and 11th Avenues, Manhattan
• Height: 150 feet (46 meters) tall
• Number of Steps: 2,500 steps, 154 flights of stairs
• Design: Designed by architect Thomas Heatherwick and Heatherwick Studio
• Opened: March 2019
• Admission: Free (though advance timed tickets are typically required)

What is The Vessel?

The Vessel is essentially a large public art installation and observation structure, allowing visitors to climb its interconnected staircases to enjoy panoramic views of New York City and the Hudson River. The design of The Vessel is inspired by ancient stepwells in India, though its futuristic and geometric design makes it feel thoroughly modern.

The structure is made from bronzed steel and concrete and consists of multiple landings connected by staircases, creating a visually intricate, honeycomb-like design. While the primary experience at The Vessel is climbing the stairs and exploring different levels, the structure also serves as a social hub in Hudson Yards, where people can gather, take photos, and enjoy the surrounding area.

Key Features of The Vessel

1. Climbing the Stairs

• The Main Attraction: Visitors climb The Vessel’s 2,500 steps, which are arranged in a zig-zagging, interwoven pattern, giving the impression of a spiral that wraps around the structure. As you ascend, each level offers different perspectives of the city, the nearby skyscrapers of Hudson Yards, and the Hudson River.
• 80 Viewing Landings: Along the climb, there are 80 landings or platforms where visitors can stop, rest, and take in the views. Each landing provides a unique angle of the surrounding environment, making it a dynamic and constantly changing experience.

2. Stunning Views

• Hudson River and New Jersey: On the western side, you’ll get sweeping views of the Hudson River and across to New Jersey.
• The High Line: To the south, you can spot the High Line, the elevated park that runs through the West Side.
• Hudson Yards Skyscrapers: The Vessel is surrounded by some of the tallest and newest skyscrapers in NYC, including 30 Hudson Yards (which houses Edge, the highest outdoor sky deck in the Western Hemisphere).
• Midtown Manhattan: Look east to see the sprawling landscape of midtown Manhattan’s skyline, with iconic buildings in the distance.

3. Accessibility

• Elevator: The Vessel is designed to be accessible, with an elevator that runs to certain levels for visitors with limited mobility or those who prefer not to climb the stairs. The elevator stops at various landings to allow everyone to experience the structure.
• Seating Areas: Some of the landings have seating areas, making it easy to pause, take a break, and enjoy the views before continuing your exploration.

4. Public Art Piece

• A Landmark of Modern Design: The Vessel is not just a viewing platform but a massive piece of interactive public art. Its unique shape, which some compare to a honeycomb or a giant vase, has made it an iconic symbol of Hudson Yards and one of the most Instagram-worthy spots in the city.

5. Lighting at Night

• Evening Experience: The Vessel is beautifully illuminated at night, with soft lighting that highlights its bronze-colored panels. Visiting in the evening provides a completely different experience, as the lights create a striking contrast against the night sky and the illuminated Hudson Yards buildings.

Visiting The Vessel

1. Tickets and Admission

• Admission: Tickets to The Vessel are free, but timed entry tickets are required to manage crowds and ensure everyone has a safe and enjoyable experience.
• How to Reserve Tickets: Tickets can be reserved online in advance via the official Hudson Yards website. While same-day tickets may be available, it’s highly recommended to book your tickets ahead of time, especially during peak tourist seasons or weekends.
• Premium Flex Tickets: For visitors who want more flexibility, premium tickets allow you to visit The Vessel at any time on a particular day, without needing to stick to a specific time slot.

2. How Long to Spend

The amount of time you spend at The Vessel depends on how thoroughly you want to explore. Most visitors spend around 30 minutes to an hour walking the staircases, stopping at landings, and taking in the views. You can climb at your own pace and spend more time if you want to take more photos or enjoy the surroundings.

Best Times to Visit

• Early Morning: For fewer crowds and the best lighting for photos, try to visit early in the morning when The Vessel first opens.
• Evening: Visiting during sunset or in the evening provides stunning views of the Hudson River and the city lights, as well as the chance to see The Vessel illuminated.

3. How to Get to The Vessel

• By Subway: Take the 7 train to 34th Street – Hudson Yards station, which is just a short walk from The Vessel.
• By Bus: Several MTA bus routes stop near Hudson Yards, including the M34-SBS and M11.
• Walking: The Vessel is located near the High Line, so you can combine a walk along the High Line with a visit to The Vessel for a full day of exploring the West Side of Manhattan.

4. Amenities Nearby

• Hudson Yards: The Vessel is part of the Hudson Yards development, which includes luxury shopping, dining, and public spaces. After your visit to The Vessel, you can explore high-end retailers, art galleries, and restaurants within the complex.
• The Shops at Hudson Yards: Directly adjacent to The Vessel, this mall offers a range of dining options, including casual eateries and fine dining, as well as shopping at top-tier retailers.
• Edge Observation Deck: For those looking for an additional viewpoint, you can visit Edge, located at 30 Hudson Yards, which offers breathtaking panoramic views from 1,100 feet above the city.

Tips for Visiting The Vessel

• Wear Comfortable Shoes: With 2,500 steps to climb, be sure to wear comfortable walking shoes to make your experience more enjoyable.
• Bring a Camera: The Vessel is one of the most photogenic landmarks in the city, so be sure to bring a camera or smartphone to capture the unique perspectives and views.
• Check the Weather: The Vessel is an outdoor attraction, so it’s best to check the weather forecast before your visit. It may be less enjoyable on rainy or particularly cold days.

Is The Vessel Free?

Yes, general admission tickets to The Vessel are free, but you must reserve a timed ticket in advance. Premium tickets, which allow more flexibility in the time you visit, are available for a fee.

Recent Updates

Due to safety concerns, The Vessel has periodically limited or restricted access to certain areas of the structure. Be sure to check the official Hudson Yards website for the most up-to-date information about access, safety policies, and current ticket availability. The Vessel reopen on Monday, 10/21/2024 with new safety measures

Conclusion

The Vessel is one of New York City’s most striking new landmarks, offering a unique combination of public art, architecture, and scenic views. Whether you’re climbing its intricate staircases, admiring the design from below, or enjoying the surrounding Hudson Yards area, The Vessel is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience modern NYC from a new perspective.