Union Square Greenmarket

What to expect

Rows of open-air stalls packed with seasonal produce, baked goods, cheese, honey, flowers and prepared snacks, plus chefs and shoppers weaving through with totes and carts. Vendors are happy to talk about how things are grown, samples appear at many tables, and the surrounding park buzzes with street life, performers and people taking a break in the sun.

Good to know

• Union Square is a major transit hub—take the 4/5/6, N/Q/R/W or L to 14th St-Union Square
• Bring a reusable tote or cart; popular items and peak-summer produce sell out by midday
• Many vendors take cards, but carry some cash for smaller stands and tips
• Mornings are calmest; midday on market days gets crowded
• Free to browse, and a great low-cost outing even if you're just sampling and people-watching
• GrowNYC runs food-scrap and textile recycling drop-offs nearby—worth combining with your visit

Common questions