Vessel, Architectural structure in Hudson Yards, Manhattan, United States
Vessel is a walkable sculpture in Hudson Yards, Manhattan, shaped like a honeycomb structure made of copper. It rises to a height of roughly 46 meters and consists of 154 interconnected staircases with a total of 2500 steps and 80 platforms.
British designer Thomas Heatherwick conceived this structure as part of the Hudson Yards development, and it opened in March 2019. The construction emerged as part of a large redevelopment project on the western edge of Manhattan.
Visitors come mainly to take photographs and find viewpoints, with some seeing it as a symbol of modern urban development. The staircases encourage a slow climb upward while experiencing the city from shifting angles.
Visitors enter through timed admission tickets, and up to 1000 people can explore the different levels at once. Comfortable shoes are recommended since the stairs can be demanding.
The framework was manufactured in Italy and kept hidden behind a tall fence under strict secrecy before being shipped to New York. Each platform offers a different viewpoint, as no two levels allow exactly the same view.
Location: New York City
Inception: 2019
Architects: Thomas Heatherwick
Creator: Thomas Heatherwick
Official opening: March 15, 2019
Height: 45.7 m
Accessibility: Wheelchair accessible
Made from material: steel
Website: https://hudsonyardsnewyork.com/discover/vessel
GPS coordinates: 40.75381,-74.00217
Latest update: December 12, 2025 16:45
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magnificent, seen from the outside
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