Whenever I find myself leading out of town guests around in the city, I always bring them to Union Square. Union Square to me is the crossroads of the city. Eight of the subway trains that weave throughout the city each day, make a stop in union square. Its spacious grounds allow you to escape the tight busy streets. The square exhibits some of the great characteristics of the city. It has culture, character, and diversity.

It seems like everywhere you turn in the city, there are more options for becoming greener. Since 1976 the council on the Environment of New York City established the greenmarket program. This program allows local farmers and distributors to sell fruits, vegetables and farm goods in open air markets around the city. Union Square is home to one of the most famous green markets in the city. It is open Monday, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays between 8am and 6pm. It’s a great alternative to skip the small aisled grocery stores.

Forget Macy’s department store or radio city music hall during the holidays. The Union Square holiday market is by far one of the best holiday experiences in the city. The market is open daily from November 23rd – December 24th. Over 100 kiosks create a scenic maze throughout the square. The market has artisans selling homemade jewelry, candles, art work, and baked goods. Nothing says holidays in the city like purchasing a monogram ornament while enjoying a piping hot cup of apple cider.

This summer the Union Square partnership has created a weekly program held on Thursdays until August 13th. Summer in the Square is a free program offering yoga, fitness classes, music, and theatrical performances for New Yorkers. At noon on Thursdays, there are children performances and activities.

Union Square is great place to grab a seat on one of the many benches and people watch. And that is great activity for any time of year.

---

Add this page to your favorite Social Bookmarking websites