6½ Avenue in NYC is a unique pedestrian passageway that runs from West 51st to West 57th Streets between Sixth and Seventh Avenues in Manhattan. The avenue is a hidden gem that cuts across the middle of two avenues dating back to 2012, and is notable for the unusual fraction in its name, which adds to its charm.
The avenue is actually a public walkway that weaves its way through a series of public plazas, open access areas, and building lobbies, with a variety of shops, cafes, restaurants and public art along the way, making it a perfect destination for a leisurely stroll or a quick bite. I tend to walk through it often when I am in this part of town, and have visited for happy hour and to eat its restaurants often.
Background of 6½ Avenue
6½ Avenue was created in 2012 as a six-block pathway to ease pedestrian traffic. The passageway was created by converting privately owned public spaces into a quarter-mile corridor of open-access lobbies and canopied spaces.
The passageway has been named 6½ Avenue since 2012 to reflect the passageway’s location between Sixth and Seventh Avenues and its status as a mid-block pedestrian route. It provides a safe and convenient route for pedestrians to travel between Sixth and Seventh Avenues without having to navigate busy intersections, and has evolved to provide a number of amenities such as bars and restaurants along its way.
Design and Features
Public Spaces and Plazas
6½ Avenue is a unique pedestrian-only passageway in Midtown Manhattan, New York City, that boasts a series of public spaces and plazas. These public spaces are designed to promote pedestrian access and social interaction, and offer benches, trees, and other greenery to provide a comfortable and inviting environment for New Yorkers and visitors alike. These spaces are designed to provide shelter from the elements while still maintaining an open and airy feel.
If you’re ever on the West side between 6th and 7th Avenue in the fifties, it is worth taking a stroll through 6½ Avenue, though keep in mind that some of the blocks are closed off at night.
Art Installations
Public Art installations are a prominent feature of 6½ Avenue, and are located at various points along the avenue . The art installations are typically large-scale and are designed to be interactive, providing a unique and engaging experience for pedestrians.
Restaurants and Bars
The restaurants and bars in this passageway tend to be busy, a couple with an after work crowd for happy hour.
Crosswalks and Pedestrian Passageways
6½ Avenue has several crosswalks and pedestrian passageways that make it easy for pedestrians to cross the street. These crosswalks are well-marked with stop signs, stop ahead signs, and crossings to ensure the safety of pedestrians. The crosswalks are also equipped with sidewalk pedestrian ramps and textured surfaces to make it easier for people with disabilities to cross the street.
Closing Thoughts
6½ Avenue is an unexpected half avenue that is situated between Sixth and Seventh Avenue in Manhattan. It is a pedestrian passageway that runs from 51st to 57th Streets aimed at easing pedestrian congestion. It was developed by combining multiple Privately Owned Public Spaces, which today offer shelter from the elements, public art, and amenities such as restaurants and bars. If makes for a charming walk if you are in the neighborhood. If you do plan to visit, keep in mind that several sections are closed after dark.
