Fourteen blocks of Avenue of the Americas go car-free, which is the only time most people get to walk up the middle of it. It is one of the permitted Manhattan street fairs, running the full stretch from the Bryant Park end toward Columbus Circle with vendor tents along both curbs. If you want the standard-issue New York street fair without leaving Midtown, this is the weekend's version.
What to expect
Barricades close Sixth Avenue and vendor tents line both curbs the whole way, leaving the centre of the roadway open for walking. It is busiest between late morning and mid-afternoon. The organizers hold their fairs rain or shine, so it goes ahead regardless of the forecast.
Good to know
- The fair runs along Sixth Avenue from 42nd to 56th Street; Bryant Park and Rockefeller Center stations both put you on the route.
- It is free to walk; bring cash for food carts that skip cards.
- The whole route is flat street pavement, so strollers and wheelchairs are fine.
- Walk one direction and take the subway back rather than doubling the fourteen blocks.
- There is almost no shade on the avenue, so bring water in the heat.
- The organizers run these fairs rain or shine, so a light jacket beats cancelling.
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Common questions
Is there an entry fee?
No. These street fairs are free to walk; you only pay vendors.
What happens if it rains?
The organizers state that all their events are held rain or shine, though vendor turnout can thin out.
How long is the fair?
It spans Sixth Avenue from 42nd to 56th Street, roughly fourteen blocks.
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