The Vessel
The Vessel
4.5
Points of Interest & LandmarksArchitectural BuildingsObservation Decks & Towers
10:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Monday
10:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Tuesday
10:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Wednesday
10:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Thursday
10:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Friday
10:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Saturday
10:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Sunday
10:00 AM - 8:00 PM
About
This bold, beehive-looking structure is one of the most iconic buildings in Midtown Manhattan and the centerpiece of Hudson Yards. This spiral staircase has 154 interconnecting flights of stairs, and together with its reflective copper metal exterior, creates a surreal appearance and unique photo op. It also offers amazing views of the city and river from different vantage points. Although the upper floors are currently closed to the public, you can access the ground level for free.
It's a great stop to make if you're heading to Bella Abzug Park, or on a tour of Hudson Yards and The High Line. – Tripadvisor
Duration: < 1 hour
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Top ways to experience The Vessel
The area
Address
Neighborhood: Hudson Yards
How to get there
- 34th St – Hudson Yards • 3 min walk
- 34th St – Penn Station • 10 min walk
Reach out directly
Best nearby
Restaurants
10,000 within 5 kms
Attractions
1,617 within 10 kms
See what travelers are saying
- Rene CLong Beach, California19 contributionsReally CoolWent to meet some friends for dinner and didn't even know this was there. How cool to just run into an amazing architectural structure. Definitely cooler to see at night, but still cool to look at during the day.Visited December 2022Written December 16, 2022
- holidayhoney65Chessington, United Kingdom1,192 contributionsThe Vessel , pretty impressiveWe saw The Vessel as soon as we came up from the subway, you just can't miss it, its HUGE. I understand you used to be able to walk up to the top but this is no longer an option, its a shame as I would imagine the view from the top is spectacular. We saw it during the day but I bet it looks very pretty at night. Its nearly really an attraction you would go out of your way to see but if you are going to The Yard for shopping or The Edge you can't fail to see it.Visited December 2022Written January 2, 2023
- BronteBucketHarrogate, United Kingdom646 contributionsImpressive sculpture at the end of the High LineGosh, what a sculpture! It is a stunning building/piece of art comprised of numerous walkways which you can normally walk up to get to the top. Gives off a bee hive vibe - sadly currently closed whilst they work ok safety elements. You can however walk into the base of the sculpture to view it from below which is worth doing (free of charge).Visited February 2023Traveled with familyWritten March 4, 2023
- Mich Herondale99 contributionsStunningThis building is absolutely stunning and it's really worth paying it a visit. We were in awe watching it. Also, the day we visited there was a huge screen in which you could see a football game, there were also some chairs and many people gathered watching. Really cool!Visited October 2022Written March 7, 2023
- PrincessWashington DC, District of Columbia200 contributionsEye catchingStunning building! Even on a rainy day there were quite a number of people taking photos. Wish it was still an option to go inside the building.. maybe it’ll reopen one day, let’s hope so!Visited December 2022Traveled as a coupleWritten March 22, 2023
- natters14Portsmouth, United Kingdom2,537 contributionsStunning!I visited here with my two friends, who are locals, after we had brunch with a fantastic view overlooking the building. It was great to then visit the structure and ground level and look up at it. It’s a shame you’re unable to now to go up the building but it’s still an interesting piece of architecture to admire. Well worth a visit if you’re nearby particularly as it’s in such a convenient location.Visited February 2023Traveled with friendsWritten April 10, 2023
- Arthur MHamilton, Canada1,038 contributionsCan't climb to the top, but the structure itself was stunning enough to be appreciated from below.Definitely Hudson Yard's icon, and one of NYC's modern day icons too. The structure was insanely well-designed. While we can't climb to the top, it was enough to be appreciated from the ground level.Visited April 2023Written April 20, 2023
- zombie_nurseHastings, United Kingdom73 contributionsMore like the hive from Resident EvilOn our way to the High Line we came upon the Vessel. And Art installation which is very photogenic and in a nice area. Unfortunately we were unable to get to the top so could only stay at the bottom. I was please we saw it but I wouldn’t go out of my way.Visited April 2023Traveled as a coupleWritten April 29, 2023
- Went To AmericaLondon, United Kingdom55 contributionsGood for InstagramCan’t really comment on it as an experience or what it’s like to go inside as it’s been closed every time I’ve visited. However it is great to look at from the outside, it’s a fantastic sculpture to look at and is very popular for instagram photos. Hudson Yards in general is worth a visit for The Edge and the Shops, so makes sense to take a look at the Vessel while you’re there.Visited July 2023Traveled as a coupleWritten July 13, 2023
- digdeep0169New Mexico289 contributionsThe Vessel is an interesting ArchitectureUnfortunately my visit was Sept 2023, it's closed off. I've come to find out of the horror stories that have happened, therefore for everyone's safety, it's blocked. you can stand near it, but can't traverse the stair/pathways. It is along the Hudson Yards, so definitely worth taking it in.Visited September 2023Written September 15, 2023
These reviews are the subjective opinion of Tripadvisor members and not of TripAdvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Contribute
Detailed Reviews: Reviews order informed by descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as cleanliness, atmosphere, general tips and location information.
Popular mentions
4.5
1,416 reviews
Excellent
862
Very good
424
Average
98
Poor
23
Terrible
9
hsasmith
Newcastle upon Tyne, UK854 contributions
Nov 2023 • Solo
Very interesting Shape which you can walk around and through the middle but unfortunately you aren't able to climb at present. Pretty at night with the lights reflecting off it
Written 29 November 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Gino K
Amsterdam, The Netherlands1,124 contributions
Apr 2023 • Couples
The vessel is a beautiful piece of modern architecture. Unfortunately it is closed due to some incidents, but it is a sight you should visit!
Written 18 November 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Adam
Vilnius, Lithuania37 contributions
Aug 2023 • Couples
Very accessible all around for wheelchair users. Of course it is closed for entrance which is a shame, but can roll around it like everyone else, no barriers, steps or anything like that.
Written 4 November 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
AZoratti
Ribeirao Preto, SP251 contributions
Oct 2023 • Couples
Very different construction, I think you have to see it if you are in NY, take advantage and go to Electric Lemmon on the roof top of the Hotel Equinox
Written 31 October 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
D P
Wellington, New Zealand6,692 contributions
Oct 2023 • Friends
What a shame that this amazing structure/building has been temporarily closed. They are currently looking at ways to enclose the structure without compromising the beauty of it.
Still it is fascinating to see and you can go inside to look up through the structure with its shiny copper exterior
Still it is fascinating to see and you can go inside to look up through the structure with its shiny copper exterior
Written 21 October 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
The Trusty Trip Gal!
England, UK114 contributions
Sep 2023 • Couples
I first saw the Vessel when passing on one of the ferries!
Later on in the week we was having a walk on the High Line and came across the Vessel! Sadly it wasn’t possible to go up but I felt like the futuristic looking design fitted so well into its surroundings!
Great to see!
Later on in the week we was having a walk on the High Line and came across the Vessel! Sadly it wasn’t possible to go up but I felt like the futuristic looking design fitted so well into its surroundings!
Great to see!
Written 18 October 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Edd1981
Abingdon, UK97 contributions
Oct 2023 • Couples
Very cool structure. You can go into the bottom and look up but can’t go up to the top as sadly it’s closed due to suicide attempts. Very unique structure, and worth having a look after doing another tourist thing in the area 👍
Written 16 October 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
StephenCross
Dublin, Ireland18,410 contributions
Oct 2023 • Solo
The Vessel is an incredible structure and located at Hudson Yards. Unfortunately it’s not possible to get to the top! Disappointing.
Written 9 October 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Aldo Viktor Gal...
10 contributions
Jul 2023 • Family
Interesting but not fantastic. go if its on your way but is for sure something very different than usual
Written 8 October 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
644AndreaC
179 contributions
Sep 2023 • Couples
Amazing structure. I was here with my hubby last 2018 and was able to up and down the vessel. Too bad wasn’t able to go up this time because it was temporarily closed,but was still able to enter only the ground floor. Took a lot of pictures. Very Instagrammable.
Written 7 October 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Fonseca R
Nantes, France81 contributions
Bonjour, nous y allons début février. Je vais bientôt réserver (14 jours avant).
Selon vous quel est le meilleur créneau horaire. Nombreux parlent du coucher du soleil. Du coup selon vous quelle est la meilleure heure en février.
Merci infiniment pour votre aide précieuse 👍
Daniel F
Buenos Aires, Argentina169 contributions
Nous sommes allés à midi à 13h30 en hiver, il est préférable de s'abriter car il est à côté de la rivière. Et soyez ponctuel. ils ne vous laissent pas entrer avant votre horaire
lili1915
Aix-en-Provence, France2 contributions
Bonjour est ce que le vessel est ouvert le 25 decembre
rosina de leon
Buenos Aires, Argentina153 contributions
Je ne sais pas
donnariccio
Avalon, NJ3 contributions
How do you get free tickets to view
Patricia S
New York City, NY15 contributions
You can check the Hudson Yards website for free reservations. I recommend that you try to book it in advance if you have a particular time/day you'd like go. Otherwise, it can be hit or miss as to how crowded it is and whether you'll be able to get free tickets if you show up and use the kiosks at the Vessel. (The "Flexipass" is the one that costs $10, so if you are looking for free viewing--and no reason not to--then don't choose the Flexipass.)
שני ב
1 contribution
aIs there an elvator for a stroller?
HeatherDublinOH
Dublin, OH116 contributions
yes
Alexandra C
San Antonio, TX
My family will be visiting in a few days. Do we have to reserve tickets in advance? What is the best time to visit – in the morning, or in the evening?
Francesca90277
San Sebastian - Donostia, Spain134 contributions
Given that you'll be arriving within this week, you will have to obtain your tickets there at the kiosk. Expect to enjoy other activities after you've gotten your tickets since more likely than not; your time slot will be several hours later. You've got the beautiful mall in the same complex; TimeSquare not very far, or take the High Line to the Whitney Museum; among other things. Morning hours are less congested but night time is truly special for the sunset and the magnificent night-time views. If you're averse to the heat, nighttime hours are also more comfortable. Enjoy!
Vicky
Chicago, IL
The date we want to go no longer have free tickets online. There are 8 of us and we’re planning to be there Tuesday evening. Will it be busy at that time and do you think we can get free tickets when we get there?
Natalia T
Athens, Greece281 contributions
Honestly, when we visited it was almost empty! i think that if you are on site and still want to take the stairs it is possible. You can have the same view from the green line and the beautiful malls around the Vessel.
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Claim your listingTHE VESSEL: All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (with Photos)
Frequently Asked Questions about The Vessel
- According to Tripadvisor travelers, these are the best ways to experience The Vessel:
- Hudson Yards, HighLine Tour with Optional Edge Entry (From ₱2,165.10)
- Secrets of the High Line (From ₱2,498.20)
- Cycle To NYC's Top Sites In One Day (From ₱8,327.32)
- NYC Must-See Highlights of Manhattan Bus Tour (From ₱4,940.88)
- Boat Tour NYC Skyline, Statue of Liberty, Private Yacht Tour (From ₱133,237.11)
- Hotels near The Vessel:
- (0.09 km) Equinox Hotel New York
- (0.33 km) Pendry Manhattan West
- (0.35 km) Four Points by Sheraton Manhattan Midtown West
- (0.27 km) Courtyard New York Manhattan/Midtown west
- (0.69 km) Even Hotel New York - Times Square South, an IHG Hotel
- Restaurants near The Vessel:
- (0.00 km) Verano
- (0.02 km) Rainbow Produce Nyc
- (0.02 km) Milo's Cafe
- (0.05 km) NutriDrip
- (0.12 km) Peak Restaurant & Bar
- Attractions near The Vessel:
- (0.02 km) Hudson Yards, Rockefeller Center, Lincoln Harbor NY Hop On,Hop Off Private Tour
- (0.03 km) The Shed
- (0.08 km) The Shops & Restaurants at Hudson Yards
- (0.18 km) Edge NYC
- (0.11 km) Sundays Hudson Yards Studio