The Vessel NYC

The Vessel NYC finally opened in 2019. The original concept for Vessel was revealed in 2016. Now tourists, as well as locals, are now able to climb the 2,500 stairs to the 150-foot-tall, honeycomb-shaped public art installation at Hudson Yards.

What is the Vessel in NYC?

Comprised of 154 intricately interconnecting flights of stairs – almost 2,500 individual steps and 80 landings – the vertical climb offers remarkable views of the city, the river and beyond.

NEW: Both the Sightseeing Flex Pass and the Sightseeing Day Pass now include tickets for the Vessel and the Edge! 

Sightseeing Flex Pass

The construction started in April 2017 and the structure was revealed for the first time in December 2017. Beautifully sitting right in the middle of the Hudson Yards Plaza the area is also connected to the nearby High Line Park that will probably lead over 8 Million tourists per year to see the newest attraction in New York City. You’ll get to the Vessel in NYC with the 7 Train. The subway stop Hudson Yards is only a 5-minute walk away.

The Vessel is probably one of the most unusual buildings you will ever see. It’s part structure, part sculpture, part giant staircase that could’ve straight come out of a M.C. Escher painting.

It’s advisable to choose a flexible pass or one of the sightseeing passes we mentioned, if you want to visit The Vessel. The problem with general attendance is that there is a very limited number of free tickets that can be reserved online. Also, when you reserve in advance through the official website, you will have to pick a specific date and time.

You can only visit The Vessel in that window. With a sightseeing pass, you can just show up any time, any day. We all know how hectic a touristy day in New York City can get. So I wouldn’t tie myself down like that. A Sightseeing Pass in New York, even if you are not interested in visiting the Vessel, is more than worth it anyway.

Sightseeing Flex Pass Sightseeing Pass

Walking tours at The Vessel NYC

If you would like to explore the area with a special tour guide during a walking tour there is a great tour that we highly recommend. The two-hour tour takes you to the Vessel in NYC and the close by High Line and offers a great overview of the neighborhood, its architecture, and the art scene. This way you’ll make the most of your visit to this mesmerizing area.

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Is there an elevator inside the Vessel?

If you’re wondering if the Vessel in NYC is wheelchair accessible, we can assure you that it is. The structure also has ramps and elevators to make it easier for people with disabilities or other health conditions. Anyone is able to enjoy the experience of the Vessel.

Views from the Vessel in NYC

People climbing the Vessel get to see different perspectives of the city from different heights, angles and vantage points. But don’t expect too much, because the Vessel doesn’t offer stunning city views like one of the observation decks in New York. You get to see an overview of the Hudson Yards, New Jersey and the adjacent High Line.

By visiting the Vessel at Hudson Yards your main focus should be the design aspect of the sculpture and its beautiful colors when the sun hits the bronze steel. Amazing photos are guaranteed.

Sightseeing Pass

Tickets for the Vessel at Hudson Yards

If you want to climb the Vessel in New York City, make sure to reserve your tickets in advance online. The tickets for the Vessel NYC are free of charge – if you book your time slot in advance.

The Sightseeing Pass is the only New York attraction pass to include admission to the Vessel. It includes a flex ticket, allowing you to visit the Vessel whenever you like without reservation!

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The Vessel in New York – FAQ’s

Do you still have questions regarding your visit to The Vessel? Not a problem. I will try my luck as a medium and try to guess the questions that might be running through your mind right now. Oh, and as always: is there anything else you’re not sure about involving your trip to New York, questions or otherwise, just drop us a comment, and we’ll get back to you asap.

Where is the Vessel of New York located?

Hudson Yards is on the west side of Midtown Manhattan at 10th Avenue and 33rd Street, just near the Hudson River. The Vessel is located all the way on the west side of New York City between 10th and 11th Ave, located right by the Shops and Restaurants at the Hudson Yards. You can get off at Penn Station and walk a few avenues west, or get off the Q or 7 train. The Vessel is located in the center of Hudson Yards a large complex of includes shops, residential flat buildings, public green space, and commercial space.

When is The Vessel open?

The Vessel is open every day from 11 AM and closes at 7 PM.

When is the best time to visit The Vessel in New York City?

That’s easy: The best time to visit The Vessel NYC is during sunset. In that light the bronze structure really comes to life. Make sure to google ahead of your visit when the sun will approximately set. Just get there an hour beforehand to really soak it all in. That will give you more than enough time to truly enjoy the view and take a lot of pictures.

Do you need tickets for the Vessel in NYC? Is entrance to the Vessel free of charge?

Yes, it’s one of the best free tourist attractions the city has to offer. What you will need to do is book your tickets in advance. Don’t just how up there on a whim. Unless you’re content with just admiring from the outside. But, as you can tell, the real architectural treasures are found on a walk inside. And for that you’ll need to book in advance.

Mind that it’s only free if you pick a certain time. You can also get a so-called flexi-ticket which will cost you $10 – but is included in the Sightseeing Flex Pass and the Sightseeing Day Pass. Which is why we recommend picking up one of those.

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