The Vessel, New York City’s newest interactive landmark. The purpose of this structure is to be able to enjoy the city from new perspectives and angles, it definitely succeeds on its mission. It’s an amazing futuristic experience and the best part is that it’s free!
Related posts: Best places to eat and drink and a 2 day guide to exploring NYC!
How to get tickets:
1. Go on their website and select the desired date.
2. Select the preferred time you want to visit and fill out all your information and the e-ticket will be sent to your email. Download the ticket onto your phone so it can be scanned at the entrance.
You don’t need to pay anything to reserve the tickets, it’s purely so they can regulate the crowds. If you didn’t get tickets online and just happen to walk by and want to visit than there are a few kiosks outside the vessel where you can get tickets but be aware that the times you probably want won’t be available so it’s best to book online at least 2-3 days in advance in high season.
Best time to visit:
We went right at sunset and it was beautiful and well worth it! The reflection from the structure is beautiful in photos and you can usually get cool sun flares! Of course, sunset times are the hardest times to get, so book your tickets a couple days ahead!
Blue hour is another time right after the sun sets that would be pretty to photograph and with less crowds.
If you want photos of the exterior of the Vessel than I suggest coming around 7am-9am to avoid crowds.
How to get here:
The closest subway station is the 7 train and the stop is 34th St. Hudson Yards.
If you are going to the Chelsea market first take the A,C,E, or L train to 8th Ave. Station and then walk West to 9th Ave. and 15th Street.
The entrance to the highline from the Chelsea market is at 10th Ave. and 16th street.
Things to know before going:
- You need to book tickets in advance even though they are free, they are on a first come first serve basis
- Can only enter in your designated time slot and if you are early, they will let you enter 15 mins before the initial entry time
- Can spend as much time as you want but only need about 30-45min if taking photos
- There are a lot of stairs to climb to reach the top so wear good shoes
- For people with mobility issues you can take the elevator to the top but there is a long wait
- Can book tickets up to 2 weeks in advance
- Cannot bring tripods
What to do besides the Vessel:
Hudson Yards is a huge space that houses not only the Vessel but also The Edge which is an outdoor sky deck and The Shed showcases artists work.
The Highline
The Highline is an innovative public space above the hustle and bustle of NYC. The newly built 2.3km pathway bring tourists and locals a like along an immersive walk full of greenery and unique apartment buildings. It’s a great spot for photos, enjoying a cup of coffee on one of the many benches or just taking a nice walk.
Note: Don’t come in the afternoon, it’s very busy and the pathways are small.
Chelsea Market
An amazing indoor food market located in the heart of the meatpacking district. It’s the perfect place to grab a bite to eat and explore all the local stalls and international products.
Tip: I have heard great things about Los Mariscos for a budget friendly delicious meal!
The Vessel is such cool edition to NYC and such a unique spot in the city! I hope you found this guide helpful and put the Vessel on the top of your NYC list!
Wow, right from the very first picture I wanted to know where it was and how to visit it. I had no idea that New York had this! It looks very neat and makes for great photos. It really reminds me of a honeycomb.
Right, it looks so futuristic and intriguing. Totally looks like a honeycomb and the photos options are endless!!
Thank you for all the tips! I’m adding the Vessel to my travel plans for sure! Good to know I cannot bring my tripod.
Thank you Diana, happy to help! I definitely wish they allowed tripods but there are lots of people there that i’m sure would be happy to help!
I love your photos and how you captured the vessel in that lighting! I used to live in NYC and feel like I’ve done everything except this! It was built after I moved and would love to see it on a visit. Great tips about how to book tickets and when to go!
Thank you Vanessa! Hope you can visit again soon, it’s such a cool attraction!
I am planning to visit NYC soon and this is so helpful! This has been on my list!
So glad I could help! I will have a couple more blog posts about NYC soon!
The Vessel is such an interesting concept! I would love to go back to New York and well, checking out the Vessel sounds like a good excuse to do so asap 🙂 Btw, your pictures are beautiful.
I agree, it’s such a cool futuristic building! Thank you soo much!!
That’s such a cool building! Can’t believe I have never been to NYC before 😀
It’s a fun one to explore and take photos with! Maybe in 2020 you’ll get a chance!