4 Union Square is a 206,000-square-foot street-retail property at 40 E 14th St, New York, NY 10003, on the southeast edge of Union Square in Manhattan. Managed within Vornado Realty Trust’s New York street-retail portfolio, it is a practical stop for browsing major retailers and picking up everyday goods while exploring Union Square Park, the Greenmarket, and the 14th Street shopping corridor.
What to Expect at 4 Union Square
This is not an enclosed mall with a central atrium or visitor-ticketed attraction; it is a large, multi-level commercial building with retail accessed from the Union Square/14th Street streetscape. Its real advantage is location: Broadway, Fourth Avenue, East 14th Street, University Place, and the park all converge within a block. Shoppers can use it as an efficient anchor between the department-store and fashion retail concentration around 14th Street and the independent bookstores, cafes, and specialty shops spreading south toward Greenwich Village.
The building’s scale distinguishes it from the smaller storefronts around the square, and its street-facing setting makes it easy to combine errands with a park break. Whole Foods Market Union Square has long made the address a useful grocery and prepared-food stop, particularly for picnic supplies before heading into the park. Retail occupancies and individual store hours can change, so check the relevant retailer directly before making a special trip; the official property page is the best starting point for building information and availability.
- 206,000 square feet: A substantial Manhattan street-retail property rather than a single boutique.
- Union Square setting: Steps from the park’s central lawn, public art, chess tables, and seasonal community activity.
- 14th Street frontage: Direct access to one of downtown Manhattan’s busiest east-west shopping and transit corridors.
- Whole Foods Market nearby: A convenient stop for groceries, prepared foods, snacks, and park-picnic provisions.
- Retail-walk access: An easy link between Flatiron, Greenwich Village, NYU, and the Broadway retail corridor.
4 Union Square at a Glance
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Address | 40 E 14th St, New York, NY 10003 |
| Neighborhood / Area | Union Square, at the meeting point of Greenwich Village, Flatiron, and the East Village |
| Operating Hours | Listed hours: Mon 10am–8pm; Tue 7:30am–8pm; Wed 10am–8pm; Thu 11am–8pm; Fri 10am–9pm; Sat 11am–9pm; Sun 11am–6pm. Individual retailers keep their own schedules. |
| Admission / Price Range | No admission; shopping and food purchases are pay-as-you-go. Typical spend: $$. |
| Recommended Visit Duration | 30 to 60 minutes for a focused shopping stop; longer when paired with Union Square Park. |
| Nearest Transit / Parking | 14 St–Union Sq station for the 4, 5, 6, L, N, Q, R, and W trains; paid garages are available in the surrounding Union Square/Flatiron area. |
| Official Website & Phone | Vornado Realty Trust: 4 Union Square; 212-894-7000 |
Visiting Tips, Getting There & Nearby Pairings
Arrive soon after opening on weekdays for the least crowded sidewalks and quicker service at food retailers; the square and 14th Street become especially busy at lunch, after work, and on weekends. The 14 St–Union Sq subway complex is the simplest arrival point, with exits around Broadway, East 14th Street, and Union Square East. Driving is rarely the easy option in this part of Manhattan: use a paid garage only if necessary and expect local traffic, limited curb space, and delivery activity.
The surrounding public sidewalks have curb cuts and broad crossings, but this is a dense, high-footfall district; allow extra time when navigating with a wheelchair, stroller, or luggage. Retail accessibility, elevator access, restrooms, and seating are controlled by each individual business, so call ahead for a particular need. Pair the stop with Union Square Park, immediately across the street; the Union Square Greenmarket, generally held Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays; and the Strand Book Store at Broadway and East 12th Street, about a five-minute walk south. Madison Square Park and the Flatiron Building are roughly 12 to 15 minutes north on foot.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best hours to visit 4 Union Square?
Listed building hours run from morning through evening, with Sunday closing at 6pm; individual retailers may open and close differently. Weekday mornings are best for a more manageable shopping stop, while Greenmarket days and weekend afternoons bring heavier pedestrian traffic.
Is there an admission fee or do I need a reservation?
There is no admission charge and no reservation is required to enter this retail property. Budget depends entirely on the stores and food purchased; it is best treated as a $$ shopping stop rather than a ticketed destination.
How long should I allow for a visit?
Allow 30 to 60 minutes for a specific purchase, grocery run, or quick browse. Add an hour or more if you plan to eat, visit the Greenmarket, or explore Union Square Park and nearby Broadway shops.
Is 4 Union Square suitable for families and wheelchair users?
Its central location, nearby park, and subway connections make it convenient for families, though the surrounding sidewalks can be crowded. Street crossings have curb cuts; contact a chosen retailer in advance to confirm step-free entry, elevators, accessible restrooms, and stroller storage policies.
When planning your New York travel guide or browsing verified shopping in New York, pair this stop with standout local spots including One Direction World, Evan's Place, The Museum of Modern Art, and Union Square Park (0.1 km away).
