The Vessel

Entry is free, but you still need a ticket. If you arrive early morning you can usually grab a ticket for a time slot within the hour. Later in the day you may have to wait much longer for a time slot. Of course, you can still check it out from the outside. If you want more flexibility you can order a Flex Pass for $10.00 that permits entry at anytime on the day you choose. This can be ordered on the official Hudson Yards website linked to above.

So what is there to do here other than climbing the 2500 steps, or getting some great pictures for your instagram feed? Not so much to be honest, but again it is free and there is a view of the Hudson Yards from the top. The downward view of the inside is probably more interesting though. If you are looking for city views there are much better options available, both free and paid.

Both a ramp and an elevator to the top do make the vessel fully accessible, but for those who are able, it really is designed to be climbed.

Opinions about the vessel vary widely. People love it, hate it, or anywhere in between. Some compare it to the beloved Eiffel Tower in Paris, noteing that people where very critical of it at first too, but honestly, comparing this to the Eiffel Tower is like comparing fast food to fine dining. Having said that, the overall reviews are positive. It certainly is an interesting subject for photographs.

Some wonder about the reasoning behind this attraction. From a commercial perspective, it was probably intended to draw people to the upscale shopping centre, luxury real estate, and The Shed Performing Arts Theatre that are part of the same development.

We don't suggest putting the Vessel on your must see list, but if you have the time, or happen to stumble across it, you may want to take a look.

Questions and Answers about the Vessel

When did the Vessel open? The Vessel opened on March 15, 2019.

How high is the Vessel? The Vessel is 150 feet high.

How wide is the Vessel? The Vessel is 50 feet wide at the base and 150 feet wide at the top making the top as wide as it is tall.

How many flights of stairs are in the Vessel? The Vessel has 154 flights of stairs and nearly 2500 steps.

Who designed the Vessel? The Vessel was designed by Thomas Heatherwick.

Accommodations near The Vessel: