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Vessel

A visually stunning, 150-foot-tall architectural marvel in Hudson Yards, featuring a complex web of interconnected staircases designed for exploration and panoramic views of the Hudson River.

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Vessel
Epicgenius, CC BY-SA 4.0

What is the Vessel and what is it known for?

The Vessel is an iconic, interactive architectural experience located at Hudson Yards in Manhattan. Designed by Thomas Heatherwick, it is a 150-foot-tall cylindrical structure consisting of 154 interconnected flights of stairs, 2,500 steps, and 80 landings.

Where is the Vessel located?

It is located at 20 Hudson Yards in Manhattan, New York City.

What are the visiting hours?

Hours vary by source: one site lists 11 AM to 5 PM (with a reopening from 7 PM to 9 PM) or 11 AM to 7 PM, while another report stated daily hours from 10 AM to 9 PM starting March 3, 2024.

Is it free to visit?

While it is generally a ticketed experience, New York City residents have been offered free admission on Thursdays.

What can I see from the Vessel?

Visitors can explore the structure to enjoy remarkable views of New York City and the Hudson River.

What should I check before going?

Use Gyde for context, then check official sources for current hours, tickets, construction, and closures.

What to know

Vessel is a striking 16-story structure located at 20 Hudson Yards in Manhattan. Designed by Thomas Heatherwick of the Heatherwick Studio, this architectural marvel is composed of 154 interconnected flights of stairs that form a massive cylindrical shape. The structure is a feat of engineering, containing 2,500 steps and 80 landings, creating an immersive environment where visitors can explore new perspectives of the surrounding city. The attraction first topped out in December 2017 and officially opened to the public on March 15, 2019. While it became an instant tourist icon, the structure faced a period of closure after several suicides occurred in 2021. To ensure visitor safety, full-height steel mesh nets were installed on each level of the structure. Following these safety modifications, Vessel reopened on October 21, 2024. Although it is designed to be entered and explored, some upper areas remained closed initially during the reopening phase. Today, it serves as a centerpiece of the Hudson Yards neighborhood, offering remarkable views of the Hudson River and the Manhattan skyline from its various heights. Visitors can experience the structure from multiple angles, making it a one-of-a-kind visual experience. The design encourages an interactive journey, turning a simple climb into a piece of public art that challenges traditional notions of building utility.

Visitor tips

  • Check for 'Free Thursdays' if you are a New York City resident.
  • Wear comfortable walking shoes, as the structure contains 2,500 steps.
  • Visit during the 11 AM to 7 PM window, but check for specific evening reopening hours from 7 PM to 9 PM.

Nearby context

Vessel is the focal point of Hudson Yards, New York City's newest neighborhood. It is situated near other major attractions including The Edge and the High Line, surrounded by world-class shopping and dining options.

Guided options

Tours that include this stop

Gyde's walks are free and self-guided. If you want a live guide or skip-the-line entry, these cover Vessel:

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Sources

Evidence and links