Atly Logo
New Yorkers 1st Choice
Local picks

Historical market sites in New York

Made for those who prefer to weave their grocery shopping into a day spent exploring the city's past.

Based on 641 Opinions
+638
User
User
User
Updated June 2026
01
Chelsea Market image 1
Chelsea Market image 2
Chelsea Market image 3
View all

Large covered market inside a restored industrial factory blends historic architecture with modern culinary culture. Vibrant atmosphere fills the space with diverse shops and food stalls, attracting many visitors. Outdoor heated booths offer comfortable spots to eat despite the busy, sometimes warm environment.

Offers a wide range of unique and creative food vendors that attract food lovers and curious wanderers alike. Serves as a vibrant spot to explore diverse culinary options and enjoy memorable food experiences.

Historical architecture blends with a picturesque, evocative atmosphere. The site offers a cozy, relaxing vibe rich in history and charm.

People are saying

"This market has endless food options and great shopping."

"This place has a cool, different vibe and atmosphere."

"It's a historic building with a cool industrial vibe."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers half price on oysters and beers/wine.

2

Chelsea Market hosts various events, including cooking classes and pop-up shops.

3

Expect a 20-minute queue outside every restaurant during peak hours.

02
Essex Market image 1
Produce market

Spanning over three floors with a vibrant upstairs and a quieter lower level, the market offers a beautiful space filled with diverse food stalls and seating areas. The atmosphere blends authentic NYC energy with a lively bar scene and quality sound, creating a dynamic place to eat and explore.

Offers a wide variety of food vendors with international cuisines and local delicacies. Features many options for grab-and-go, fast casual, and sit-down dining, plus shops showcasing local artisans and producers.

The market honors the area's history of Jewish immigrant tenements from the early 1900s. It dates back over 100 years as one of the original thirteen markets in the city.

People are saying

"This market has so many delicious food options to explore."

"I found the vibe here to be really cool and artsy."

"This bustling marketplace is a must-see for exploring NYC's flavors."

Good to know

1

Restaurants close at 7 PM on Saturday night.

2

The market gets crowded during the lunchtime rush.

3

Management frequently closes the seating area for events, disrupting diners.

03
Zabar's image 1
Gourmet grocery store

Gourmet grocery store with old-world charm and an edgy omni-deli ambiance filled with the aroma of specialty cheeses and coffee. Crowded with serious shoppers, the atmosphere can feel tense but remains a local institution known for its unique bakery and extensive gourmet cookwear upstairs.

An incredible selection of European food and unique products fills the market. The aroma is comforting, and the market includes a kitchen and cooking store alongside classic deli offerings.

A classic Upper West Side landmark that feels like a piece of New York history. It serves as a monument to gourmet deliciousness and offers a chance to connect with a rich family legacy.

People are saying

"I thought the bagels here were the greatest ever."

"I found this market has a huge variety of food."

"It's a historical site that feels like stepping into a movie."

Good to know

1

Parking is abysmal, so plan accordingly.

2

There is no restroom available for customers.

3

The #1 subway stop is right next to Zabar's for easy access.

04
Pier 17 image 1
Event venue

Rooftop venue offers phenomenal views of the Brooklyn Bridge and city skyline, creating a romantic atmosphere especially at sunset. Outdoor spaces provide ample seating and a calm, vibrant vibe during live music events. The setting combines urban charm with serene waterfront outlooks.

A food market sits right on the pier with a mix of bars and restaurants nearby. The roof terrace hosts a winter market with an ice skating area during colder months.

Historical structures stand out at Pier 17, where history is visible everywhere. The rooftop offers a panoramic view of landmarks like the Brooklyn Bridge and Statue of Liberty. The maritime museum showcases the city's maritime heritage and history.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the spectacular view of the Brooklyn Bridge."

"The market here has stunning views of the Brooklyn Bridge."

"The historical sites offer breathtaking views of the river and city."

Good to know

1

The concert venue ends shows by 10 PM sharp due to a noise ordinance.

2

Reservations are recommended at the Fulton Restaurant for great views.

3

Visitors should arrive early for a closer view of the concert.

05
Old Stone House of Brooklyn image 1
Historical place museum

Reconstructed 1699 house sits amid playground and green turf, creating a cozy, lively historic atmosphere. Exhibits offer rich local history with honest narratives, while outdoor spaces include water play and sports areas for children.

A regular farmers market runs here with a focus on artisan goods. Composting takes place during the Sunday market, showing an eco-friendly approach.

Reconstruction brings history to life with an outdoor hearth cooking ancient ingredients. The first floor offers an in-depth look into Brooklyn's role in the US Revolutionary War and local history.

People are saying

"I loved the community events and celebrations at these historical sites."

"I found the playground beautifully landscaped with a water play area."

"I loved the creative programming and cultural activities at the market."

Good to know

1

Outdoor theater nights occur during summer, providing a unique experience.

2

The site hosts cultural and horticultural events throughout the year.

3

The park is dog-friendly, but dogs must be on a leash.

06
Macy's image 1
Department store

Nine-story department store spans a city block with original wooden escalators dating back to the 1920s, creating a unique historical feature. Bright lighting and large seasonal displays contribute to a grand and welcoming atmosphere. Families frequent the spacious playroom, while shoppers enjoy convenient amenities like an on-site pub and quick-service food options.

A professional market manager and marketing director run the market. Prices stay at market standard. The Holiday Market has limited stores, many also found at other holiday markets.

Wooden escalators remain in motion as an iconic piece of retail history. The building's sheer scale and elegance showcase its historical charm and status as a true landmark.

People are saying

"I found Macy's to be a huge department store selling just about everything."

"I loved seeing the historic building and its charming wooden escalators."

"I loved walking around the magical holiday market inside."

Good to know

1

Macy's hosts seasonal events and the famous Thanksgiving Day Parade.

2

Students should carry their student ID to receive discounts.

3

Reservations are now required to enter Macy's.

07
Times Square image 1

Plaza buzzes with bright lights and massive digital billboards that create a unique vibe day and night. Crowds gather around live street performances and entertainers, filling the space with constant energy and diverse languages. A large staircase offers a spot to rest and take in the vibrant scene.

Street closures create space for a market on one of the streets. The market offers a variety of stalls and a lively atmosphere. Exact days for the market vary and are not specified.

A global landmark known for its iconic lights, colors, and sounds that stimulate the senses. The area features the famous ball drop building, a symbol of its historical significance.

People are saying

"It's so lively with all the bright lights and hustle and bustle."

"Times Square is a historic landmark, full of energy and lights."

"I found the market thrilling and exciting to see so busy again."

Good to know

1

Expect large crowds during the New Year's celebration in Times Square.

2

Avoid visiting Times Square on weekends due to heavy foot traffic.

3

Be cautious of costumed characters asking for money after taking photos.

08
Westfield World Trade Center image 1

Soaring white ribs and abundant natural light create a stunning architectural marvel with a spacious, brightly lit environment. Activities like rollerskating and ice skating add family-friendly energy, while the rooftop terrace offers a peaceful city atmosphere.

A large food market offers a wide variety of options, including everything needed for meals. Prices tend to be on the higher side, but the selection is extensive and convenient.

A powerful symbol of renewal, the Oculus stands next to the 9/11 Memorial with stunning architecture. It offers a rich history and memorable moments, easily accessible by subway near major landmarks.

People are saying

"The mall's architecture is an extraordinary, futuristic wonder."

"It's a historic site, a powerful symbol of renewal."

"You have to check out the market; there's so much great food to choose from."

Good to know

1

The event occurs every Friday from March to September.

2

In the summer, there is a food festival every Friday.

3

Restrooms close at 7 PM, and all are closed by 9 PM.

09
Brooklyn Museum image 1
Art museum

Imposing neoclassical building with a modern glass entrance creates a grand and welcoming space filled with natural light. Atmosphere stays relaxed and intimate, inviting quiet art appreciation amid spacious galleries and visible storage showcasing behind-the-scenes art. African music and live bands add a distinctive cultural layer to the experience.

Local farmers and artisans sell fresh goods at a weekend farmers market nearby. Small street markets and pop-ups feature talented local creators and art exhibits outside the building.

An impressive facade introduces a place where ancient Egypt, Mesopotamia, and Native American artifacts fill five floors. Cultural monuments and history exhibits create a space where history and culture come alive through stories and echoes.

People are saying

"The museum's exhibits are amazing and surprisingly huge."

"I loved visiting the historical sites here; they felt like pages from a living book."

"I loved the street market with local creators selling their stuff."

Good to know

1

First Saturday events occur monthly with live music and pop-up activities.

2

The Thierry Mugler exhibit is available until May 2023.

3

Admission is pay-what-you-wish, but online reservations are recommended.

Discover more

New York, New York

Area guide
Loading Map...