Madison Square Park New York City
A vibrant urban oasis featuring iconic Flatiron Building views, rotating art installations, and the original Shake Shack.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Madison Square Park New York City
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vibrant urban oasis featuring iconic Flatiron Building views, rotating art installations, and the original Shake Shack.
"A perfect blend of iconic architecture, public art, and delicious food in the heart of NYC."
🎯 Beware of Scams
Be cautious of people fundraising for fake teams; report suspicious activity to park staff or NYPD.
👟 Comfortable Shoes
You'll likely do a lot of walking to explore the park and surrounding areas.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Flatiron Building Views
Northern end of the park
Iconic triangular skyscraper offering stunning architectural views, especially with the park in the foreground.
Seasonal Cherry Blossoms
Throughout the park
A beautiful display of pink and white blooms in spring, transforming the park into a picturesque scene.
Public Art Installations
Various locations
Rotating contemporary art exhibits and sculptures that add a dynamic cultural layer to the green space.
Shake Shack Flagship
Southern end of the park
The original location of the popular burger joint, offering a classic NYC food experience.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating the Crowds
Getting There & Around
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Beware of Scams
Be cautious of people fundraising for fake teams; report suspicious activity to park staff or NYPD.
👟 Comfortable Shoes
You'll likely do a lot of walking to explore the park and surrounding areas.
📱 Use Public Transport
Driving and parking near the park are difficult and expensive. Subways are the best option. +1
🌸 Springtime Beauty
Visit in spring to witness the stunning cherry blossoms that dot the park.
Any advice for a first time visitor to MSG?
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Beware of Scams
Be cautious of people fundraising for fake teams; report suspicious activity to park staff or NYPD.
👟 Comfortable Shoes
You'll likely do a lot of walking to explore the park and surrounding areas.
📱 Use Public Transport
Driving and parking near the park are difficult and expensive. Subways are the best option. +1
🌸 Springtime Beauty
Visit in spring to witness the stunning cherry blossoms that dot the park.
🍔 Grab a Burger
Don't miss the original Shake Shack for a classic NYC burger experience.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors love Madison Square Park for its iconic views of the Flatiron Building, vibrant public art, and the original Shake Shack. It's a refreshing green space in a bustling city, perfect for picnics and relaxation. Some caution is advised regarding potential scams targeting park-goers.
"Our Favorite Park in Manhattan!
Madison Square Park is truly our favorite park in the city. We love walking there — it’s always a peaceful, beautiful escape right in the heart of Manhattan. We enjoy it so much that we even decided to start making monthly donations to support the park’s foundation.
It’s always a pleasure to stroll through, whether it’s spring blossoms, summer shade, or crisp autumn air. And during the holidays, watching the Christmas tree lighting there feels absolutely magical — such a warm and festive atmosphere.
A gem of New York!"
Max NoName
"This is probably my favorite smaller but still impressive mid city parks. I walked over from my hotel in the early part of the day and immediately went from smelling the city streets to the scent of freshly cut grass. There's constantly live music and it's just perfectly big enough to feel like you're out of the city, and I absolutely love the large trees Throughout. Definitely worth stopping by"
Fit Gear Hunter
"It is a lovely green space perfect for a peaceful break from the city buzz. Surrounded by iconic buildings like the Flatiron, the park offers well-kept lawns, art installations, and plenty of benches. It’s great for a walk, a quick lunch, or just relaxing under the trees. The atmosphere is calm yet vibrant, with locals and tourists alike enjoying the space."
Gabriele Daverio
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Madison Square Park is easily accessible via multiple subway lines. The 23rd Street station serves the 4, 5, 6, and 7 trains, while the 23rd Street station serves the F and M trains. The PATH train also stops nearby at 23rd Street. +1
Driving and parking in the vicinity of Madison Square Park are generally difficult and expensive. Many visitors and locals strongly advise against it, recommending public transportation instead. +1
The closest subway stations are 23rd Street (4, 5, 6, 7, LIRR, NJ Transit) and 23rd Street (F, M). The 1, 2, 3, N, Q, R, W trains also have stops within walking distance.
Yes, several bus routes stop near Madison Square Park, including the M1, M2, M3, M5, M6, M7, and Q32. Check MTA schedules for specific routes and times.
Yes, Madison Square Park is within walking distance of many popular attractions, including the Flatiron Building, Koreatown, and the southern end of the High Line.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Madison Square Park is a public park and does not require tickets for entry. It is free to visit and enjoy.
Madison Square Park is generally open from 6:00 AM to midnight daily. However, specific hours can vary, so it's always a good idea to check the official NYC Parks website for the most up-to-date information.
There is no admission fee to enter Madison Square Park. It is a public green space for everyone to enjoy.
Yes, you are welcome to bring your own food and drinks into Madison Square Park. It's a great spot for a picnic.
Yes, public restrooms are available within Madison Square Park. They are typically located near the center of the park.
📸 📸 Photography
The northern end offers iconic views of the Flatiron Building, especially with the park's greenery. In spring, the cherry blossoms provide beautiful backdrops. Look for interesting public art installations for unique shots.
Golden hour, shortly after sunrise or before sunset, offers the most flattering light for photographing the Flatiron Building. Weekday mornings can also provide fewer crowds for unobstructed shots.
For casual personal photography, there are no restrictions. However, if you plan to conduct professional photo shoots, especially for commercial purposes, you may need to obtain a permit from NYC Parks.
Madison Square Park features a rotating schedule of contemporary art installations. These can range from large-scale sculptures to interactive pieces, offering diverse photographic opportunities.
Yes, drone usage is generally prohibited in all NYC Parks, including Madison Square Park, for safety and privacy reasons.
🍽️ 🍔 Food & Dining
The original Shake Shack is located right in the park and is a must-try for burgers. The surrounding area, especially Koreatown on 32nd Street, offers a vast array of dining options from Korean BBQ to diverse Asian cuisines.
The most famous food option within Madison Square Park is the flagship Shake Shack. There are also often seasonal food vendors or carts present.
Yes, while Shake Shack can be a bit pricey, exploring Koreatown or grabbing a quick bite from street vendors can offer more budget-friendly choices. Many visitors recommend eating before heading to nearby Madison Square Garden events to save money.
Absolutely! Madison Square Park is a perfect spot for a picnic. You can bring your own food or grab takeout from nearby eateries.
The area around Madison Square Park is incredibly diverse. You'll find everything from classic American burgers at Shake Shack to Korean, Italian, Mexican, and various international cuisines in the nearby neighborhoods.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
When visiting, consider bringing a blanket for a picnic on the grass or letting the kids explore the various art installations. Be mindful of potential crowds during peak times, and keep an eye out for any fundraising solicitations that have been reported as scams.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers
Be aware of your surroundings, especially regarding potential scams targeting visitors. Utilizing public transport is highly recommended for easy navigation.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Don't forget to explore the public art installations, which are constantly changing and provide unique photographic opportunities. The interplay of light, architecture, and art makes this park a dynamic location for capturing memorable images of New York City.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Iconic Flatiron Building
When visiting Madison Square Park, make sure to position yourself for the best views of the Flatiron. The park offers several vantage points, with the northern end providing the most direct and unobstructed perspectives. Capturing the building against the backdrop of the park's greenery or the vibrant city skyline is a quintessential New York City photo opportunity.
While you can't typically go inside the Flatiron Building for tours (it's primarily office space), its exterior beauty and historical significance are well worth appreciating from the park. It's a constant reminder of the city's architectural evolution and a testament to innovative design.
Art in the Park
Past installations have included works by renowned artists such as Maya Lin, Tony Smith, and Sarah Sze, each leaving their distinct mark on the park. The ever-changing nature of the art means that each visit can offer something new and surprising. Exploring these installations is an integral part of the Madison Square Park experience, encouraging contemplation and interaction with art in an accessible, public setting.
When planning your visit, it's worth checking the Madison Square Park Conservancy's website for information on the current exhibition. This will help you know what to expect and perhaps even plan your visit around a particular piece that interests you. The art adds an extra layer of engagement to the park, making it a destination for both relaxation and cultural enrichment.
The Original Shake Shack
Expect a lively atmosphere and, often, a line, especially during peak hours. However, many visitors find the wait to be well worth it for the quality of the food and the experience of dining at the very first Shack. Grabbing a ShackBurger and enjoying it at one of the park's picnic tables is a quintessential New York City experience.
While the menu has expanded over the years, the original location maintains a special charm. It's a popular spot for both locals and tourists, offering a delicious and casual dining option right in the heart of the city.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit