When asking yourself about something to do near me in New York with a group of friends or family, consider
79th Street Greenmarket
Why 79th Street Greenmarket is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
79th Street Greenmarket is a vibrant, year-round farmers market located just behind the American Museum of Natural History on Columbus Avenue, spanning from 78th to 81st Streets in New York City’s Upper West Side. This lively outdoor market offers a wonderful meeting place for friends, families, and food enthusiasts to enjoy fresh, locally sourced, and sustainably produced foods. Open every Sunday from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, the market provides an impressive variety of goods including grass-fed beef, fresh fish, poultry like duck and chicken, artisanal cheeses such as goat cheese, fresh flowers, eggs, honey, baked goods, and apple cider. Seasonal highlights include wild foraged greens like ramps in spring and abundant corn and berries in summer, with winter offerings focusing on proteins, preserves, and storage crops, ensuring the neighborhood is well supplied all year round. The greenmarket’s welcoming and community-centric atmosphere makes it an ideal spot to connect with local farmers and producers, learn about sustainable agriculture, and enjoy quality organic and farm-raised products at reasonable prices. Its picturesque tree-lined location near a major cultural landmark enhances the experience, making it much more than just a shopping destination — it’s a celebration of food, nature, and culture in New York City.
Here's what people think of 79th Street Greenmarket
As of recent, 79th Street Greenmarket holds a 4.6-star rating based on 208 reviews.
With an impressive 4.6-star rating from over 200 reviews, the 79th Street Greenmarket is highly regarded by visitors and locals alike. Reviewers consistently praise the market for its rich diversity of fresh and high-quality products, including a remarkable selection of meats, dairy, vegetables, and baked goods. Positive reviews highlight the friendly and knowledgeable vendors, the ease of access, and the vibrant market atmosphere that encourages socializing and community interaction. Many appreciate the year-round operation of the market, which ensures fresh local food is always available regardless of season. Customers also commend the affordability and reasonable pricing considering the quality of the produce and artisanal items. On the other hand, some negative reviews mention occasional crowding on busy Sundays and limited parking availability nearby, which can make the visit slightly challenging during peak times. A few note variable vendor presence on certain dates or slight fluctuations in product variety, but these do not overshadow the overall positive experience. In conclusion, the 79th Street Greenmarket is widely recognized as a reliable and enjoyable farmers market that successfully blends urban convenience with farm-fresh authenticity, fostering a strong community bond in the heart of Manhattan.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Matt B
A vast multi-block farmer’s market with dozens of vendors hocking their wares from plants to vegetables and meats.
Noah Henyon
The 79th Street Greenmarket by GrowNYC is in the upper west side by Columbus Ave on Sundays from 9am-4pm, with some vendors packing up earlier. It is in a nice, shady space next to the Natural History Museum, and has a long line of vendors. A few of my favorite vendors include Lavender by The Bay for local soaps, Ronnybrook for returnable glass bottle dairy, Gajeski and John Madura and Wood Thrush and D&V Organics for mostly no-spray organic practice farming of fruits and vegetables, and She-Wolf, Lost Bread, and Francesca's Bakery for many whole grain options of breads and baked goods. There are many other great farms and vendors of all types including maple syrup and honey.
Stephanie Froelich
Tons of variety, beautiful produce, flowers, baked goods, meat, eggs and even alcohol! Something for everyone. On the sidewalk, so be aware of your surroundings, and some booths have an "entrance" and "exit" to be aware of.
A.L. Harris
Love this market!!! 3 blocks of fresh local fruits, vegetables, baked goods and more. You can find everything here from grass fed beef to the freshest seafood, chicken and duck. Beautiful booths with fresh flowers and try to pass the baked goods without buying something.
Shlomi Birenbaom
Open Sundays from 9-6 pm A must! it’s so beautiful especially during Christmas with cool Sellers
How to reach 79th Street Greenmarket
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Why 79th Street Greenmarket may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at 79th Street Greenmarket with your friends? This vibrant, year-round farmers market on the Upper West Side offers more than just shopping; it’s a lively social and culinary experience perfect for groups. Meeting up here means immersing in the fresh air and the bustling energy of local vendors selling organic, sustainable produce, meats, cheeses, baked goods, and flowers. The market, stretching along Columbus Avenue from 77th to 81st Street, invites visitors to explore a rich variety of farm-raised and artisanal foods sourced from nearby counties. It’s a great place to connect with the community, share new tastes, and support local agriculture. Pair that with engaging cooking demonstrations and family-friendly activities hosted regularly, and you have an outing that’s both fun and educational. Whether your group loves food adventures, outdoor strolls, or just catching up in a lively yet welcoming setting, 79th Street Greenmarket hits all the right notes as a Sunday destination that naturally fosters conversation, exploration, and memorable moments together.
What activities can groups enjoy at 79th Street Greenmarket? The market features an extensive range of interactive and sensory experiences. Start with strolling the rows of vendors offering everything from artisanal cheeses like those from Valley Shepherd to fresh seafood from Suffolk County's American Pride Seafood. Groups can sample unique products such as pickled goods from Divine Brine or mushrooms cultivated by Big Apple Fungi. Seasonal cooking demonstrations are a highlight, where market chefs showcase recipes using fresh ingredients on-site, providing tasty inspiration and healthy eating tips that your group can try later. The market also organizes family-friendly events, including food-related crafts and educational activities that engage kids, making it ideal for mixed-age gatherings. Beyond shopping and eating, visitors can enjoy the vibrant street atmosphere, find beautiful seasonal flowers, and participate in community events such as clothing collection drives. All these activities create a multifaceted day out that’s perfect for friends and families looking for wholesome entertainment combined with quality food experiences.
Why is 79th Street Greenmarket perfect for a group meetup? First, the market’s expansive layout allows plenty of space for people to spread out and browse at their own pace without feeling cramped. Located just behind the American Museum of Natural History, it offers a convenient and central meeting point easily accessible by public transport or foot. The variety of vendors ensures that every group member finds something to delight in, from organic vegetables and farm-fresh eggs to gourmet baked treats and local maple syrup. The market operates from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sundays, making it a perfect morning or afternoon outing that can seamlessly lead into lunch at nearby eateries or a picnic in Central Park. Furthermore, the diverse vendors and GrowNYC’s mission to provide affordable, sustainable food make this not just a shopping trip but a purposeful outing that supports local farms and ethical food practices. This combination of accessibility, variety, space, and values makes 79th Street Greenmarket an outstanding venue for social gatherings centered around discovery and community spirit.
What makes the food and vendor selection special at 79th Street Greenmarket? The market features over two dozen local farms and small producers offering fresh, often organic, and sustainably grown products. For meat lovers, providers like Walnut Hill Farm and Dipaola Turkeys serve high-quality heritage pork and turkey products. Cheese connoisseurs will appreciate the artisan selections from Valley Shepherd and Ardith Mae Farm, which include sheep, goat, and cow milk cheeses. Vegetable lovers can delight in offerings from several farms such as D & V Organics and Down Home Acres, whose products change seasonally to bring the freshest fruits, herbs, and veggies from nearby counties in New York, New Jersey, Massachusetts, and Vermont. The freshness and traceability of these products elevate the shopping experience and invite friends to experiment with new recipes together. Additionally, the selection of preserves, honey, maple syrup, and pickled goods adds rich flavors and unique finds that make each visit feel special and tailored to discover new tastes.
How does 79th Street Greenmarket foster community and sustainability? Operated by GrowNYC, a nonprofit dedicated to urban sustainability, the market emphasizes affordable access to wholesome food and environmentally conscious farming practices. Customers can use SNAP/EBT benefits and other programs, making healthy eating more accessible to diverse populations. The Greenmarket also hosts educational initiatives such as composting information and cooking demonstrations, empowering visitors to make eco-friendly choices in their daily lives. Events like clothing collection drives show the market’s commitment to community-wide sustainability beyond food. The market’s roots in the local agricultural network reduce the carbon footprint normally associated with long-distance food transport, making it a practical choice for environmentally minded groups. Visiting the 79th Street Greenmarket thus becomes not just an outing but a meaningful way to contribute to a healthier neighborhood and planet while enjoying quality time with friends or family.
What nearby attractions complement a visit to the Greenmarket? After enjoying the Greenmarket’s offerings, groups can extend their day with visits to iconic nearby sites. The American Museum of Natural History, just a stone’s throw away, offers world-class exhibits for art and science lovers of all ages. Central Park’s vast green space nearby is perfect for a casual picnic, leisurely walk, or even a small group yoga session amidst nature. For families, the Diana Ross Playground in Central Park offers a playful environment to unwind. Numerous cafes and restaurants on Columbus Avenue provide enticing options for brunch or coffee afterward, allowing groups to relax and chat in a comfortable setting. These attractions add layers of cultural and recreational diversity to the day, making the 79th Street Greenmarket experience part of a larger, enriching urban adventure.
How accessible and convenient is 79th Street Greenmarket for group meetups? The market’s location on Columbus Avenue between 77th and 81st Streets is centrally positioned within Manhattan’s Upper West Side, making it highly accessible via several subway lines and bus routes. This accessibility ensures ease of travel for locals and visitors alike. Ample pedestrian pathways along Columbus Avenue allow for safe and comfortable movement even when the market is busy. The space is wheelchair accessible, and vendors are experienced in accommodating diverse needs, making it inclusive for all group members. Operating hours from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sundays provide a generous window for anyone to drop by or plan a full day around the market visit. These conveniences give groups the flexibility to gather casually, avoid the crowds if desired, and coordinate their schedules seamlessly, enhancing the overall meetup experience.
What tips can help groups make the most of their visit? Arriving early in the day boosts your chances to score the freshest produce and avoid peak crowds, allowing for a more relaxed shopping and social experience. Bring reusable bags to carry your purchases sustainably and share snacks or beverages to enjoy together as you explore. Designate a central meeting spot within the market in case members want to browse different vendors individually before regrouping. Participating in a scheduled cooking demonstration can provide both entertainment and a new culinary skill to share later. Lastly, consider combining your market visit with a stroll or picnic in nearby Central Park or a visit to a local café to round out the outing with a comfortable place to sit down and enjoy each other’s company after shopping. These simple strategies help transform a regular market day into a memorable social event tailored for groups.
In summary, 79th Street Greenmarket is an ideal venue for group meetups because it blends fresh, local food shopping with community activities, educational programs, and cultural proximity. Its lively yet accessible atmosphere invites friends and families to gather, explore new tastes, and support sustainable food systems together. From diverse vendor offerings to engaging cooking demos and adjacent cultural attractions, the market fosters social connection and discovery in an urban outdoor setting. Whether you are planning a casual Sunday stroll or a full day of food and fun, rallying your group here guarantees a meaningful and enjoyable experience that nourishes both body and spirit.