After a three-year hiatus, the iconic New York City landmark, The Vessel, is set to reopen its doors on October 21st (Monday). Often referred to as the “Giant Pine Cone” by Chinese tourists, this architectural marvel was closed following several tragic incidents involving suicides. Now, after nearly 1,200 days out of operation, The Vessel will welcome visitors again, enhanced with safety measures including protective barriers to ensure a safer experience for both New Yorkers and tourists.
The owners of The Vessel expressed great confidence in their new “safety assurance plan,” vowing that no safety hazards leading to suicides will arise again. Tickets are available for purchase online, with operating hours from 10 AM to 9 PM daily. General admission is priced at $10, with advance reservation required, while a flexible entry ticket costs $15, allowing access at any time. Notably, New York residents can visit for free every Thursday. Additional details can be found on the website: hudsonyardsnewyork.com/discover/vessel.
The reopening of The Vessel not only attracts tourists but also brings significant benefits to the local businesses in Hudson Yards. Isabella Arra, a coffee vendor in Hudson Yards, shared her excitement during an interview with ABC News, stating that the reopening will bring in more visitors and boost commercial activity. “We vendors are really looking forward to its return,” she said.
During the past three years, The Vessel has only allowed access to its ground level. Starting this week, visitors will be able to climb some of the stairs and enjoy views of the plaza. For safety reasons, safety mesh will be fixed from the uppermost level to the bottom, so the top level will remain temporarily closed to the public.
A spokesperson for Hudson Yards revealed that they have coordinated with the original designers and architectural studio to develop a renovation plan that includes installing floor-to-ceiling wire mesh barriers at The Vessel. “But we will also preserve the unique experience that attracts millions of visitors from around the world,” the spokesperson emphasized, noting that the protective mesh will be extremely secure and cannot be cut or removed by visitors.
Located by the Hudson River in Hudson Yards, The Vessel has been a popular attraction since its completion in 2019, drawing both locals and international tourists eager to explore its intricate staircases. However, the lack of protective measures made it dangerously easy for individuals to jump over the low railings. In just 18 months, there were four suicide incidents, with the youngest victim being only 14 years old, leading to The Vessel’s closure in 2021.
