New York City Places

Union Square

The neighborhood defined as Union Square refers to the few blocks that surround Union Square Park (which is actually more of a square than a park), located between 14th and 17th streets, and Broadway and Park Avenue South. New York University students, nannies with their charges, visitors, and locals alike all gather in this open space that can, at times, feel like an outdoor version of Grand Central Station.

If visiting on Monday, Wednesday, Friday, or Saturday, don't miss one of the best things this 'hood has to offer: the Union Square Greenmarket. Energy here reaches its peak during market days, when more than 25 farms and food purveyors set up shop on the square's north and west sides to peddle everything from produce to meat, fresh fish to baked goods.

The market is a great place to rub elbows with (and get elbowed by) local shoppers and chefs, and a great source for tasty souvenirs (locally produced honeys, jams, and cheeses) and a picnic lunch. But don't despair if you find yourself here on a non-market day. Union Square regularly has vendors of all kinds, selling everything from art to jewelry to T-shirts.