We attended the grand opening party at the new Hudson Yards this week. And it was so much fun! In a night that felt like a Hollywood film premiere, we saw the Vessel, New York City’s first Neiman Marcus, and more. Have a look at our photos of this newest mecca for modern luxury, including after-dark party pictures of the Hudson Yards grand opening.
celebrating at the new hudson yards grand opening party
We were invited to the grand opening preview party for the ultra-luxurious Hudson Yards on Thursday, March 14, 2019. On a clear moonlit night in Manhattan, here’s what we saw.
Hudson Yards, New York. Photo Credit: Dandelion Chandelier.
The setting was like a red-carpet movie premier: dancing spotlights, velvet ropes and all. It felt like a Happening.
So. Much. Fun.
Hudson Yards, New York. Photo Credit: Dandelion Chandelier.
Some entered from Tenth Avenue, where Neiman Marcus takes pride of place.
Hudson Yards, New York. Photo Credit: Dandelion Chandelier.
We took the more dramatic route, entering from the Hudson River side of the complex, on Eleventh Avenue. We recommend coming in this way for your first visit. It’s a spectacular approach, day or night.
Hudson Yards, New York. Photo Credit: Dandelion Chandelier.
the vessel
By now you’ve read about the public artwork called “The Vessel” (which may be renamed after the public has a chance to experience it fully).
The official opening of the massive public art installation was to occur the following morning. Still, we got to see it up close in all of its burnished copper glory.
Hudson Yards, New York. Photo Credit: Dandelion Chandelier.
Copper and blue is one of our favorite color combinations, so we could have happily circled this structure, snapping pictures, for much longer.
Hudson Yards, New York. Photo Credit: Dandelion Chandelier.
But there was a party to get to!
Hudson Yards, New York. Photo Credit: Dandelion Chandelier.
the shops and restaurants
The locus of the grand opening party was the Shops and Restaurants complex.
the lobby
Entering the towering atrium at the ground-level entrance to the Shops and Restaurants feels like walking onto a movie set.
Hudson Yards, New York. Photo Credit: Dandelion Chandelier.
The magical effect was amplified by the grand opening music (we hope this is a permanent soundtrack): groovy tunes from Motown wafted overhead, and a couple of spontaneous dance parties broke out. Not saying if we were part of one of them.
As you ascend through the 7-story complex, the ever-changing view of this atrium and the scene outside is part of the fun.
Hudson Yards, New York. Photo Credit: Dandelion Chandelier.
Hudson Yards, New York. Photo Credit: Dandelion Chandelier.
neiman marcus
We were guests of the new Neiman Marcus, and the party there was superb for exploring and people-watching.
The entrance to the store was decked out in taxi cab yellow and the theme of the night was a homage to New York City (Liza Minelli performed live during the evening). This is the luxury brand’s first store in Gotham.
Hudson Yards, New York. Photo Credit: Dandelion Chandelier.
The store is chic and sleek, and so was the VIP crowd.
Hudson Yards, New York. Photo Credit: Dandelion Chandelier.
Among other celebrities, we caught a glimpse of Katie Holmes and Joan Smalls.
Hudson Yards, New York. Photo Credit: Dandelion Chandelier.
The store design of the new Neiman Marcus is crisp, clean and modern. Contemporary art fills the walls.
Neiman Marcus Hudson Yards. Photo Credit: Dandelion Chandelier.
There are extensive shoe and handbag departments, as well as a state-of-the-art beauty area. There’s a full-service beauty salon, plus three restaurants.
In addition, there are numerous services and exclusives not usually seen at luxury department stores. They include a florist, a custom hat shop, a vintage clothing section, a custom cowboy boot salon, and a shave bar.
There are arcade games, a demonstration kitchen, and “smart” mirrors and dressing rooms. Plus loads of personalization services. It’s a new era for this iconic luxury brand. Welcome to New York! It’s been waiting for you.
the vibe
The overall vibe of the night was playful, noisy, and happy. There were stylish people of all types. Friends out together, people on dates. Some chilling, and others in full party mode.
Hudson Yards, New York. Photo Credit: Dandelion Chandelier.
Hudson Yards, New York. Photo Credit: Dandelion Chandelier.
Hudson Yards, New York. Photo Credit: Dandelion Chandelier.
more to come
There are still several elements of Hudson Yards that are not open yet: the Shed, the Equinox Hotel, and several of the condominium complexes. So stay tuned.
For now, though, that’s our report. What say you? Does this look like a place you’ll be spending some time in? Where are you going to start?
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