Midtown South, Flatiron and Union Square

Understanding Midtown South, Flatiron and Union Square

The Flatiron Building was completed in 1902 to Daniel Burnham’s design. Its three-sided form and narrow north end respond to the street intersection, which is why a view from the nearby plaza helps explain the building.

Madison Square Park opened as a public park in 1847 and was redesigned in 1870. Its history includes public gathering, monuments and later art installations; the park is distinct from the modern arena called Madison Square Garden.

Places to explore

• Flatiron Building

  Fifth Avenue at West 23rd Street

  View the building from the Flatiron North Plaza, as the neighborhood partnership recommends. Look at its narrow point and widening sides. Plan this as an exterior architectural stop.

  Read the NYFE place guide

• Madison Square Park

  Flatiron area

  Choose the gardens, trees and public art using the conservancy’s current park guide. Lawn access can change with weather, maintenance or events; paths and lawns are different parts of a visit.

• Union Square Park

  14th Street area

  Use the permanent benches or choose the playground. The Greenmarket operates on selected days, and movable chairs have a seasonal arrangement; neither should be promised every day of the year.

Planning a visit

Union Square Partnership lists the 4, 5, 6, L, N, Q and R at 14th Street–Union Square and PATH at 14th Street/Sixth Avenue. These approaches serve the Union Square part of the area; check MTA or PATH service.

Check current lawn conditions, market operating days and the availability of the park feature you want.