Union Square

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Union Square is a vibrant and iconic neighborhood nestled in the heart of Manhattan, New York City. Known for its bustling energy, diverse culture, and central location, Union Square is a magnet for locals and tourists alike. The neighborhood is characterized by its historic public square, Union Square Park, which serves as a communal hub for various activities.

Surrounded by a mix of commercial and residential spaces, Union Square boasts an eclectic atmosphere with a rich blend of retail shops, restaurants, and cultural venues. The area is a shopper's paradise, featuring flagship stores, boutiques, and specialty shops that cater to a wide range of tastes and preferences.

Culturally, Union Square is a melting pot, hosting numerous events, art installations, and performances throughout the year. The Union Square Greenmarket, a renowned farmers' market, draws crowds seeking fresh produce and artisanal goods. The neighborhood's proximity to renowned institutions like New York University contributes to its dynamic and youthful ambiance.

Transportation is convenient, with multiple subway lines converging at the Union Square subway station, providing easy access to other parts of the city. The Union Square neighborhood strikes a balance between the contemporary and the historic, with its architecture reflecting a mix of old and new.

In essence, Union Square is a dynamic urban oasis, offering a blend of commerce, culture, and community in the heart of one of the world's most iconic cities.


Image Credits Photo by Isabella Martine on Unsplash , Photo by Magnus Andersson on Unsplash

Neighborhood Snapshot


train

Transit Score:

100/100

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Walk Score:

100/100

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Bike Score:

92/100


Commute Times


to Penn Station

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16.5 min

local_taxi

22 min

to Grand Central Terminal

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21.6 min

local_taxi

20.7 min

to Columbus Cir

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12.1 min

local_taxi

11.2 min

to Financial District

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34.5 min

local_taxi

29.4 min

to Union Square

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25.1 min

local_taxi

28.1 min

to Downtown Brooklyn

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45.4 min

local_taxi

30.2 min

to Long Island City

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31.7 min

local_taxi

25.6 min


Buildings Fun Facts


Oldest Building in Union Square

Built in 1800

30 EAST 13 STREET

Cheapest Building in Union Square (sold, p/sqft)

$17

1708 Summerfield Street

Most Expensive Building in Union Square (sold, p/sqft)

$2,752

21 EAST 12 STREET

Biggest Building in Union Square (total FAR)

471,633 ft

10 UNION SQUARE EAST


Subway Lines

Map of the neighborhood location

New Developments

Photo for  12 East 13th Street  - 12 East 13th Street Condominium in Union Square, Manhattan
12 East 13th Street, New York, NY 10003 Condominium in Union Square
Photo for  Zeckendorf Towers  - 10 UNION SQUARE EAST Condominium in Union Square, Manhattan
Zeckendorf Towers 1 Irving Place, New York, NY 10003 Condominium in Union Square
Photo for  15 Union Square West  - 15 UNION SQUARE WEST Condominium in Union Square, Manhattan
15 Union Square West 15 Union Square West, New York, NY 10003 Condominium in Union Square
Photo for  University Mews  - 39 EAST 12 STREET Cooperative in Union Square, Manhattan
University Mews 39 East 12th Street, New York, NY 10003 Cooperative in Union Square
Photo for  The Victoria  - 7 EAST 14 STREET Cooperative in Union Square, Manhattan
The Victoria 7 East 14th Street, New York, NY 10003 Cooperative in Union Square
Photo for  The Wedgwood House  - 69 5 AVENUE Condominium in Union Square, Manhattan
The Wedgwood House 69 Fifth Avenue, New York, NY 10003 Condominium in Union Square

Popular Buildings

History of Neighborhood

photo of Union Square Union Square has a rich history that reflects the evolution of New York City itself. Established in 1839, Union Square Park initially served as a public space designed by visionary city planner Andrew Jackson Downing. Originally named Union Place, it quickly became a focal point for civic gatherings and political rallies.

Throughout the 19th century, Union Square evolved into a cultural and commercial hub. In the mid-1800s, it became a center for the arts, housing theaters and attracting writers, artists, and intellectuals. As the city expanded, the neighborhood around Union Square transformed into a bustling commercial district, featuring department stores and upscale residences.

The late 19th and early 20th centuries witnessed the park's central role in labor movements, as it became a gathering place for workers advocating for fair labor practices. The area's historical significance was further solidified when the first Labor Day parade took place in Union Square in 1882.

In the latter half of the 20th century, Union Square experienced periods of decline and revitalization. The park underwent renovations in the 1980s, and the surrounding neighborhood saw a resurgence in the 1990s, becoming a hotspot for shopping, dining, and cultural events.

Today, Union Square stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of New York City, blending its historical legacy with a modern, vibrant atmosphere that continues to draw residents and visitors alike.

Architectural Style

Architectural style of Art Deco
Art Deco Art Deco architecture, prominent during the 1920s and 1930s, is known for its bold geometric shapes, vibrant colors, and lavish ornamentation. Characterized by sleek lines and the use of materials like chrome, glass, and terracotta, Art Deco buildings exude a sense of modern sophistication and glamour.
Architectural style of Art Nouveau
Art Nouveau Art Nouveau architecture, prevalent in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, embraces organic and curvilinear forms inspired by nature. Buildings in this style feature flowing lines, floral motifs, and intricate decorative elements, creating a sense of artistic whimsy and elegance.
Architectural style of Beaux-Arts
Beaux-Arts Beaux-Arts architecture, rooted in the academic tradition of the Ecole des Beaux-Arts in Paris, emphasizes grandeur, symmetry, and classical ornamentation. Buildings in this style often boast elaborate sculptures, decorative friezes, and monumental entrances, conveying a sense of opulence and sophistication.
Architectural style of Gothic Revival
Gothic Revival Gothic Revival architecture, popular in the 19th century, mimics medieval Gothic designs with pointed arches, intricate tracery, and decorative gargoyles. Buildings in this style evoke a sense of medieval grandeur, often featuring dramatic vaulted ceilings and ornate stained glass windows.
Architectural style of Greek Revival
Greek Revival Greek Revival architecture, inspired by ancient Greek designs, is characterized by grand columns, pediments, and balanced proportions. This style, popular in the early 19th century, exudes a sense of classical beauty and order, with buildings often adorned with ornate friezes and intricate detailing.
Architectural style of Italianate
Italianate Italianate architecture draws inspiration from Italian Renaissance designs. Buildings in this style feature decorative brackets, arched windows, and elaborate cornices. This architectural style is elegant and timeless, often seen in both residential and commercial buildings, adding a touch of Mediterranean charm to New York's streets.
Architectural style of Modern & Contemporary
Modern & Contemporary Modern and Contemporary architecture focuses on simplicity, clean lines, and open spaces. Contemporary designs often incorporate cutting-edge materials and technologies, emphasizing functionality and environmental sustainability. These buildings represent the evolution of architectural styles, reflecting the spirit of the present era.

Landmarks and Cultural Institutions

photo of Union Square Park
Union Square Park
photo of Metronome
Metronome
photo of Union Square Greenmarket
Union Square Greenmarket
photo of NYU (New York University)
NYU (New York University)

Landmarks and Cultural Institutions Image Credits Jan Ainali, CC BY-SA 3.0 , via Wikimedia Commons , Alex Lozupone, CC BY-SA 4.0 , via Wikimedia Commons , Jazz Guy from New Jersey, United States, CC BY 2.0 , via Wikimedia Commons , Tdorante10, CC BY-SA 4.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

Entertainment

photo of Live Performances
Live Performances Venues like Webster Hall and Irving Plaza often host live music performances spanning various genres.
photo of Seasonal Events
Seasonal Events Union Square hosts various seasonal events, including holiday markets, art installations, and community gatherings.
photo of Statues and Monuments
Statues and Monuments Union Square Park features several statues, including the iconic statue of George Washington.

Entertainment Image Credits Beyond My Ken, CC BY-SA 4.0 , via Wikimedia Commons , KumarNeelamegam, CC BY-SA 4.0 , via Wikimedia Commons , Another Believer, CC BY-SA 4.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

Popular Restaurants

photo of Union Square Cafe
Union Square Cafe A classic American restaurant known for its warm hospitality and seasonal, locally sourced menu.
photo of Gramercy Tavern
Gramercy Tavern A critically acclaimed restaurant with a menu focused on contemporary American cuisine, offering both a casual tavern and a more formal dining room experience.
photo of Dos Caminos
Dos Caminos A vibrant Mexican restaurant with a lively atmosphere, offering a menu featuring traditional Mexican flavors and a variety of tequilas.

Restaurants Image Credits Peter Bond from USA, CC BY-SA 2.0 , via Wikimedia Commons , Billie Grace Ward from New York, USA, CC BY 2.0 , via Wikimedia Commons , Eden, Janine and Jim from New York City, CC BY 2.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

Famous people connected to Union Square

photo of Emma Goldman Emma Goldman
photo of George Washington George Washington
photo of Jimi Hendrix Jimi Hendrix
photo of Harry Houdini Harry Houdini

People Image Credits T. Kajiwara (1876–1960), Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons , Gilbert Stuart, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons , Warner/Reprise RecordsUploaded by We hope at en.wikipedia, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons , LaPine Studios, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

Movies

photo of movie Hitch

Hitch

photo of movie American Hustle

American Hustle

photo of movie Mr. Robot

Mr. Robot


Movies Image Credits Schreibwerkzeug, CC BY-SA 4.0 , via Wikimedia Commons , Schreibwerkzeug, CC BY-SA 4.0 , via Wikimedia Commons , SVG: STVN Logo: Sony Pictures, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons , USA Network, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

Statistics for Union Square

Recent Sales Activity
Date Unit Action
11/05/2025 69 Fifth Avenue 5A Listed for sale at $599,000
10/30/2025 8 Union Square West 7B Listed for sale at $2,995,000
10/29/2025 7 East 14th Street 1115 Listed for sale at $750,000
10/27/2025 1 Irving Place U8L Listed for sale at $1,250,000
10/08/2025 7 East 14th Street 1625 Sold for $530,000
10/07/2025 7 East 14th Street 1528 Sold for $887,500
10/03/2025 49 East 12th Street 2C Listed for sale at $895,000
09/30/2025 15 Union Square West 5B Listed for sale at $8,495,000
09/30/2025 15 Union Square West 16 Listed for sale at $8,495,000
09/22/2025 1 Irving Place V12BC Listed for sale at $3,000,000