Vessel at Hudson Yards is no longer closed. The attraction reopened in October 2024 after a long shutdown and major safety changes.
Why did Vessel close?
Vessel opened in 2019 as the centerpiece of Hudson Yards. After multiple suicide deaths at the structure, it closed in January 2021. It later reopened with interim measures, then closed again after another death in July 2021.
The prolonged closure centered on a difficult question: how to make an open, climbable structure safer without completely changing what it was designed to be.
How did Vessel reopen?
Vessel reopened to visitors on October 21, 2024 after new floor-to-ceiling mesh barriers were installed on portions of the upper levels.
The structure is open today, but access is not identical to the original 2019 experience. According to Vessel’s current FAQ, the lowest levels retain a full 360-degree path. On the upper levels, only areas retrofitted with the new mesh are open, including part of the space above level 2 and a single platform at the top.
Do you need a ticket now?
Yes. Vessel currently uses timed or dated ticketing. Current access rules and hours can change, so the official Vessel FAQ is the best place to check before visiting.
The short version
Vessel closed because of repeated deaths and the need for stronger safety protections. It reopened in 2024 with physical barriers and reduced access to some of the upper structure.