Things To Do in Gramercy NYC
What to do in Gramercy NYC?
The Gramercy neighborhood in New York has a lot to offer, from Union Square and Gramercy Park to the many bars, restaurants and shopping spots. This makes it one of the most important areas of the city that you should definitely visit during your New York vacation.
What you have to do, see and eat in Gramercy NYC, we tell you here in our ultimate guide!
By the way: you’ll find many more New York City spots in our Loving New York travel guides!
My TOP 5 Things To Do in Gramercy
- Flatiron Building – It’s arguably the most recognizable building in the city. You can’t miss it because of its triangular shape. The building was meant to attract artists and was built in 1902.
- Relax near Gramercy Park
- Visit the Union Square Greenmarket or Union Square Holiday Market
- Watch a show at Gramercy Theatre
- Go Shopping on Broadway
Where is the Gramercy NYC located?
Gramercy is located in the heart of Midtown Manhattan and is bounded by Chelsea to the west (6th Avenue), Midtown to the north (starting from 26th Street) and the East Village and Greenwich Village to the south. The eastern boundary is 1 Ave.
How to Get To Gramercy
- Metro: Getting to these two neighborhoods is pretty easy. There are a bunch of trains in the area which makes it accessible to commuters. Here, you’ll find the subways at 23rd Street and 5th Ave. On 23rd Street and 6th Ave, you can access the and the Path Train. If you want to go directly to Union Square take the or and get off at, you guessed it, 14th Street-Union Square Station.
- Hop on Hop Off Bus: The closest stop is Stop 6 of the downtown loop of BIG BUS (“Union Square”) or stop 7 of the downtown loop of Gray Line Sightseeing (“Union Square”). Here you find more about Hop on Hop off in NYC.
My tip: the tickets for the buses are included in many of the New York City passes – which one is the best for you, you can see in my Pass Comparison for New York!
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The 12 Best Things To Do in Gramercy NYC
When you walk through this neighborhood, make sure to check out the Flatiron Building first. It’s arguably the most recognizable building in all of Manhattan!
Wondering what to do in the Gramercy NYC? Here’s my list of things I personally recommend you do!
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01
Union Square
Park in GramercyOur Highlight
New York City is full of diversity and variety. Union Square is a great example of this, as it is here that businessmen, creative freelancers, such as writers and artists, as well as demonstrators and the residents of the area meet. Here, the suit sits next to the hippie on the park bench. Many of the city’s most famous restaurants are located in Union Square. But it’s the theaters and cultural venues, as well as weekly markets like the Union Square Green Market, that give this part of the city its special hardship.
Residents of the Big Apple come here for first-class dining, or to enjoy the entertainment. Especially popular is the Union Square Theatre, where mainly off-Broadway plays are shown.
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02
Gramercy Park
Park in Gramercy
This green idyll is a park surrounded by expensive brownstone houses. Access is only granted with a key, which is only given to residents living directly at the park. But it is still worthwhile to look over or through the fence. The park is simply enchanting and beautiful.
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03
Union Square Greenmarket
Food Market in Gramercy
The Union Square Greenmarket in Manhattan is home to numerous local vendors where you can purchase fresh produce, meats and seafoods.
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04
Metronome
Building in Gramercy
As a symbol of the passing of time of life, an art installation “Metronome” by Kristin Jones and Andrew Ginzel was placed at the southern edge of Union Square in 1999, which in any case causes two impressions: complete perplexity and confusion. What exactly does this clock want to tell us? First, let’s explain, it consists of two parts: a digital clock with an initially incomprehensible string of digits and a sculpture reminiscent of a magic wand.
The orange 15 digits are divided into two groups. The 7 left digits indicate the current time (hour, minute, second, tenth of a second). The 8 right digits must be read from right to left to find out how much time is left until midnight.
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05
Take photos of the famous Flatiron Building
Building in Flatiron District
The Flatiron Building is one of the most popular, beautiful and iconic buildings in NYC. The triangle shaped building likens the shape of a iron, hence the name. As one of the most photogenic spots in NYC this is definitely worth the visit for every tourist.
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06
Visit the nearby Birthplace of Theodore Roosevelt
Museum in Flatiron District
Gramercy Park is famous for its special, ancient Brownstone Houses. But one thing stands out: the birthplace of the former President of the United States: Theodore Roosevelt. He was born in this house in 1858 and lived there until the age of fourteen. Today it is a museum that offers guided tours.
Get a thrilling behind the scenes look of a real New York Brownstone home that dates back to Roosevelt’s childhood, including original furniture and personal belongings from the former US president.
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07
Explore the FRIENDS Experience
Other Attraction in Flatiron District
If you’re reading this, there’s a good chance you’ve heard of the show Friends, and if you’re a fan like me, then this Friends experience is most likely for you.
After a Friends pop-up store successfully ran in Soho in 2019 to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the series, they decided to make it permanent. Now you can find “The FRIENDS™ Experience New York” in the Flatiron District.
On two floors you can take your picture in front of the famous Central Perk café or the orange couch, see many original props worth seeing and store to your heart’s content in the FRIENDS store. It’s a great place to bring your family, kids and/or friends!
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08
Watch a show at the Gramercy Theatre
Other Art & Culture in Flatiron DistrictThe Gramercy Theatre is located right on the border of the Flatiron District and the namesake Gramercy. It opened in 1937 and was a movie theater for more than 60 years until 1998, when it was converted as a venue for off-Broadway shows.
In 2004 it closed and then two years later was converted into a small and intimate concert venue. To this day, it hosts concerts that are especially popular for New Yorkers.
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09
Go Shopping at Broadway
Other Attraction in SoHo
Broadway is probably the most famous street in New York City and SoHo’s main shopping street. It is not only the longest shopping street, but also a commercial heart of the city.
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10
Visit the Union Square Holiday Market at Christmas
Christmas Market in Gramercy
Union Square Park turns into a holiday market which is very similar to the Bryant Park holiday market during the winter. Here you can buy food, small gifts and souvenirs. It’s a great place to do some holiday shopping and just to have good times with friends and family. The market’s layout was initially modeled after European Christmas markets and despite some changes since its original inception, the Union Square Holiday Market still mirrors its cousins across the Atlantic pretty closely. It is one of the largest Christmas markets in New York and a holiday tradition for any visitor.
ENJOY A MULLED WINE HERE – IT’S A GERMAN STAPLE!
At Union Square, you can browse through winding rows of stalls with live music playing in the background. A total of 100 red-and-wite-striped booths display their unique wares and artisanal foods at this Christmas market in NYC. The Union Square Market boats more than 150 registered vendors, both local and international, that are carefully selected. That’s not all, however. Union Square Holiday Market has grown significantly over the years and now also features a kid’s art studio and a warming station for the frostbitten among you. There’s no way you will leave this holiday market without a full belly and a happy smile.
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11
The perfect staycation getaway in NYC: The W New York
Hotels & Accommodations in Gramercy
5 Stars | For me, the W Hotel on Union Square is one of the best hotels in the city, because it combines a relaxed atmosphere, cool design and a sensational location. You really can’t go wrong with this one!
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12
Try one of more then 40 gins at The Winslow Gin House and Eatery
Bar in East Village
This bar in the East Village is madness: it is completely dedicated to gin. It has its own gin club and its “Ginventory” contains over 40 types of gin.
Best Attractions in Gramercy NYC
Many of New York’s major New York attractions are located in this part of Manhattan so make sure to add them to you travel itinerary:
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01 Union Square
New York City is full of diversity and variety. Union Square is a great example of this, as it is here that businessmen, creative freelancers, such as writers and artists, as well as demonstrators and the residents of the area meet. Here, the suit sits next to the hippie on the park bench. Many of the city’s most famous restaurants are located in Union Square. But it’s the theaters and cultural venues, as well as weekly markets like the Union Square Green Market, that give this part of the city its special hardship.
Residents of the Big Apple come here for first-class dining, or to enjoy the entertainment. Especially popular is the Union Square Theatre, where mainly off-Broadway plays are shown.
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02 Fotografiska New York
Fotografiska New York is a wonderful museum in NYC for all art and especially photo art enthusiasts. Originally founded in Stockholm in 2010, the museum also exists in Tallinn (Estonia) and since 2019 in New York.
It is located in a beautiful building from 1892 and extends over 6 floors. In addition to changing exhibitions, there is a restaurant and cocktail bar to round out your visit.
Note: Fotografiska will only be in its current location until September 29!
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03 Gramercy Park
This green idyll is a park surrounded by expensive brownstone houses. Access is only granted with a key, which is only given to residents living directly at the park. But it is still worthwhile to look over or through the fence. The park is simply enchanting and beautiful.
-
04 Metronome
As a symbol of the passing of time of life, an art installation “Metronome” by Kristin Jones and Andrew Ginzel was placed at the southern edge of Union Square in 1999, which in any case causes two impressions: complete perplexity and confusion. What exactly does this clock want to tell us? First, let’s explain, it consists of two parts: a digital clock with an initially incomprehensible string of digits and a sculpture reminiscent of a magic wand.
The orange 15 digits are divided into two groups. The 7 left digits indicate the current time (hour, minute, second, tenth of a second). The 8 right digits must be read from right to left to find out how much time is left until midnight.
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05 Titanique
Have you ever wondered what would happen if the Celine Dion soundtrack played throughout the sinking of the Titanic? Well, we have your answer! This hilarious rendition of a classic has Celine Dion hijacking a Titanic Museum tour explaining what she believes happened. And frankly, you wouldn’t guess what she believes.
Budget Tip
Many of the attractions and tours in Gramercy and the surrounding neighborhoods are included in one of the New York City passes. So you can easily and quickly save up to 70% – how does it work?
You can see that in my ultimate 👉 New York Pass comparison, here you can see my personal 👉 New York Pass Reviews after more than 20 visits to New York and our free New York Pass Advisor answers the question: “Which New York Pass is the best?”
Best Guided Tours in Gramercy
There are a lot of very popular tours where New York guides show you the best parts and the history of this neighborhood:
If guided tours interest you, be sure to check out the Best Walking Tours NYC!
Get personal tips & tricks, specifically tailored to your trip!
We will provide you with individual tips & tricks as you prepare for your trip. How to plan, save money and make sure you experience the most of NYC are only some of the topics covered!
Best Restaurants in Gramercy NYC
Here are some of our recommendations in terms of restaurants, clubs and bars in Flatiron and Gramercy Park. Check out our favorite places:
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01 ABC Kitchen
The ABC Kitchen serves Slow Food – the opposite of fast food and a declaration of love for our planet. Only the freshest ingredients, supplied by local farmers, are put on the plate. The dishes change seasonally and are free of pesticides, antibiotics, hormones and genetic engineering. The prices are more than reasonable for the quality of the ingredients and the service.
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02 ABCV
ABCV is a plant-based restaurant that features many vegan dishes, in addition to being fully vegetarian. The spot is decorated elegantly but with a modern twist. There are golden chandeliers, among other handing lights, that provide lighting from above. And the space features many light, pastel colors.
Although ABCV serves everything from ice cream to tomato soup, they’re often praised for their dips. Their green hummus, in particular, seems to be a fan favorite and it is served with whole-grain pita.
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Spaghetti pasta inside a cheese wheel. Close-up.03 Basta Pasta
The restaurant is clean and elegant in style, has an open kitchen and offers a relaxed atmosphere. As the name suggests, they serve great pasta dishes – excitingly combined with Japanese cuisine (for example, pasta with shitake mushrooms) and with great sauces. All organic and homemade, of course.
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04 Cote
New York City is home to so many great Michelin-starred restaurants. Another such place is Cote which is a Korean steakhouse that will offer a tasty meaty feast for just $85 per person. Included in the meal are four cuts of USDA Prime and American Wagyu beef with traditional Korean sides such as spicy kimchi stew, savory egg souffle, and sticky rice stuffing with shiitake mushrooms and Chinese sausage.
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05 Eataly Flatiron
In 2010, Eataly was opened in New York by master chef Mario Batali. The pizza is very remeniscent of pizza and the wine selection is huge. You will also find a large selection of ecellent pasta, salads, and sandwiches. In terms of price, it has to be said in advance that a pizza starts at $15 and can cost $25.
Best Bars in Gramercy NYC
These are our favorite bars in Gramercy:
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01 Bounce Sporting Club
Anyone looking for a more swanky spot to watch March Madness in NYC should check out the Bounce Sporting Club. Located on W 21st Street, this venue is home to 30 HD flatscreen TVs and a 4,000-square-feet lounge area. So, if you’re looking for a larger place to watch the games during the pandemic, consider this spacious sports bar that offers creative cocktails and pub foods with a twist.
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02 Dear Irving
Dear Irving on Hudson is an absolute secret in the city located on the 40th & 41st floor inside the Aliz Hotel. In the middle of Times Square, this bar pairs the glimpse of the city lights and skyline views with the best cocktails in town.
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03 Fitzgerald's Pub
Fitzgerald’s pub is one of the most popular Irish pubs in NYC and is known for having a great atmosphere to watch sports, listen to music or have a pint with friends. The menu features all of your favorite pub foods like wings, burgers and fries. But, if you’re looking for something different, they also offer a great selection of salads and sandwiches. Also, don’t forget to try their famous fish and chips!
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04 Keybar
Here you can enjoy a 2-for-1 offer of a special kind: buy a drink during the happy hour and receive a voucher for an equivalent drink as a gift. You don’t have to redeem this voucher immediately, but whenever you want, as long as the expiry date has not passed.
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05 Molly's Pub
Only three blocks from Madison Square Park towards the East Village you will find Molly’s Pub, which is one of our absolute favourites. We have been fans of this pub for a long time, we have been coming here regularly since our first visits to New York. It is super-authentic and radiates everything you would expect from a real Irish Pub (including sawdust on the floor!).
Looking for more recommendations? We’ve got you covered! Here you find the Best Bars in the Flatiron District NYC.
Shopping in Gramercy
In Gramercy you’ll find a bunch of stores. On 5th Ave, you’ll find stores like H&M, Banana Republic, J. Crew, Nike and a women’s fitness store called Bandier. There’s also a lot of cafe’s and restaurants that are lined up here as well.
If you walk south towards Union Square, you’ll find a Whole Foods and even a Nordstrom Rack. Since it’s in the city and pretty close to Midtown, a lot of mainstream stores have built there stores here.
Best Hotels in Gramercy NYC
Staying in Gramercy and Gramercy Park has many advantages. You’ll always be surrounded by some of the best atmosphere, bars, restaurants, and shops in NYC!
If you decide to stay in the neighborhood please check out these amazing hotels:
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01 Freehand Hotel New York
4 stars | Freehand New York is situated in Manhattan’s Flat Iron District and offers amenities such as a fitness center, sun terrace, concierge service, private check-in and check-out, and a lounge. The hotel also features a coffee shop, outdoor seating, and child-friendly facilities. As a former residence of numerous writers, musicians, and creatives Freehand New York aims to revive the artistic spirit in this neighborhood.
All air-conditioned, allergy-free units provide city views and include everything that you need for your stay. Some units are wheelchair accessible and have a walk-in shower, seating area, extra-long beds, and a sofa.
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02 Heritage Hotel New York City
3 Stars | The Heritage Hotel New York City is a budget insider tip in the Flatiron District. The rooms are clean (though small) – but you’re right in the middle of the action. It’s perfect for anyone looking for an affordable hotel in a good location. If you are just looking for a room to sleep, so to speak, this is the one for you.
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03 Sonder Flatiron
4 stars | The Sonder Flatiron Hotel, built in 2021, is located in New York, just 0.2 miles meters from the Flatiron Building and 0.4 miles from the Empire State Building. It offers air-conditioned rooms with free WiFi, a desk, flat-screen TV, private bathroom, bed linen, towels, wardrobe, and coffee machine.
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04 The Marcel at Gramercy
4 stars | The Marcel is one of the best and most popular hotels in Gramercy Park of New York. The rooms are super-beautiful and stylishly decorated and it almost feels like a boutique hotel. A special highlight is the small but nice roof terrace, from which you can even see the Empire State Building.
The location in Gramercy NYC is ideal for those who are looking for a central but quiet hotel. Important attractions are within walking distance, Union Square and Madison Square Park with the Flatiron Building are just 3 blocks away.
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05 W New York - Union Square
5 Stars | For me, the W Hotel on Union Square is one of the best hotels in the city, because it combines a relaxed atmosphere, cool design and a sensational location. You really can’t go wrong with this one!
Recommended article: The Best Hotels in the Flatiron District NYC.
Neighborhoods Nearby
If you liked Gramercy, make sure to check out the surrounding neighborhoods as well:
The 12 Best Things To Do in the Flatiron District NYC
The 19 Best Things to Do in Greenwich Village NYC
The 15 Best Things To Do in the East Village NYC
The 29 Best Things to Do in Midtown Manhattan
Neighborhoods that are Similar to Gramercy
Below are similar neighborhoods that we think you’ll enjoy:
There are a lot of neighborhoods in Manhattan worth visiting. We highly recommend Midtown and SoHo. There’s a lot of things to do in New York City and those surrounding areas have a similar vibe to the Flatiron District.
The 29 Best Things to Do in Midtown Manhattan
Theater District in New York
Things to do in Hell’s Kitchen