New York acts like a magnet – it attracts tourists, and even if not everyone likes it, most people, want to see this city, to soak up the atmosphere at least for a while. Today we have prepared for you a list of, in our opinion, the best observation decks that allow you to see New York from a height!
New York is a unique place. The city is full of countless attractions, from famous buildings, to world-class museums, to that unique atmosphere that hovers over every corner of this city. Walking through the streets one constantly staggers upward to embrace these tall buildings with one’s eyes, which is often not so easy. Not surprisingly, many people head straight for the higher levels to enjoy the views.
The metropolis can evoke extreme emotions. Some love its relentless momentum, intensity and diversity, while others escape the city’s chaos, noise and the morning sights of bags of garbage on the streets. It is a city of contrasts – on the one hand, the impressive skyscrapers of Lower Manhattan and world-class restaurants, on the other hand, problems such as traffic jams, high cost of living and overcrowding. The city is home to more than 8 million people, and attracts millions of tourists each year to experience its unique atmosphere. It’s a metropolis that fascinates and overwhelms in equal measure, and yet so many people dream of seeing New York!
Viewing the New York City skyline from above is an experience that is difficult to describe in words. This is the moment when the noise of the streets dies down and an amazing view of a city full of energy and life unfolds before your eyes. Each terrace offers something unique, from views of the Empire State Building i Central Park, to sunsets over the Hudson River. These moments at altitude stay in the memory for a long time, reminding us how impressive the place is.
In this article, we will present great viewpoints in New York City that you should consider if you are planning a trip to NYC. These are not only places to take instagram photos, but also allow you to see the city from a whole new perspective. Of course, the post is highly subjective and presents a list of our favorite viewpoints – we did not collect any statistics for the purpose of this post showing which one is actually the most frequently chosen by visitors…. :)
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Are you going to New York City?
Check out this map of attractions!
Planning a trip to New York City and looking for interesting places to visit? This New York attractions map is the perfect solution for you! It features over 80 locations worth considering when organizing your trip:
✅ Viewpoints,
✅ museums,
✅ known buildings,
✅ parks,
✅ …and much more!
Map of attractions – New York City >>>
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Table of contents
The best observation decks in New York
New York City boasts several remarkable observation decks, each offering a different experience and additional attractions. From modern and interactive spaces to classic viewpoints, there is something for everyone here. From some you will see the skyscrapers of Lower Manhattan, Central Park and even the Statue of Liberty.
Below you will not find a list of the top 5 from best to worst observation deck. We decided to point you to a few spots and tell you what makes them stand out and why they are worth visiting. These are great vantage points, although each of them has its pros and cons…. well, you can’t have everything :)
The most beautiful panorama of the city – Top of the Rock
Top of the Rock is a classic among New York’s observation decks. Located on three levels, including the highest, 70. floor of Rockefeller Center, offers the best views of Central Park, the Empire State Building and the entire Manhattan skyline. On the terrace, you’ll find several viewing levels, including a space without glass, making for perfect photos. Of course, hailing it as the best scenic spot is very subjective, but in our opinion it just is ;)
Why choose Top of the Rock?
- A view of the Empire State Building, with Manhattan’s tallest skyscrapers in the background.
- A great 360 panorama so you can see Central Park.
- No glazing on the top level of the terrace.
The newest observation deck – Summit One Vanderbilt
Summit One Vanderbilt is one of the newest attractions in New York City, opening in 2021. This state-of-the-art observation deck offers an extraordinary experience, combining views with interactive art installations. It is here that you can see the city reflected in many mirrors creating an infinity effect!
What sets Summit One Vanderbilt apart?
- Transcendence, or so-called. Infinity Room – a mirrored space that creates an infinity effect.
- Levitation – glass balconies that extend beyond the building’s perimeter.
- Ascent – glass elevators with panoramic views as you ascend to the top (extra charge).
- Affinity – a separate room with inflatable soft silver balls to resemble orbits.
The highest observation deck – Edge
The Edge, located in the Hudson Yards neighborhood, is the highest vantage point in New York City and the highest outdoor observation deck in the Western Hemisphere. This futuristic vantage point features an overhanging balcony with a glass floor and spectacular views of Manhattan, the Hudson River and beyond to New Jersey. On site, you can also climb on the edge of the building, of course, with proper safeguards and under the guidance of instructors (there is an additional fee).
Why visit the Edge?
- Terrace with a unique triangular shape, extending beyond the building.
- A partially transparent floor that provides an amazing experience and allows you to see the city from above.
- A view of the sunset and Hudson Yards skyline.
The most popular observation deck – Empire State Building
The Empire State Building is a legend among observation decks and one of the most visited landmarks in New York. Observatory at 86. The first floor offers classic views of the city, with an additional observatory at 102. The first floor allows you to see even more (there is an additional fee to enter the upper level).
Why the Empire State Building?
- An iconic viewpoint with an interesting history.
- Views familiar from movies and TV series.
- Evening visits are magical thanks to the city’s illumination.
Other points and attractions with views
Here are a few more points of interest, although not all offer views from dozens of floors, but are still worth considering when planning a visit to NYC.
One World Observatory
Located on top of One World Trade Center, One World Observatory is a place that offers views of Lower Manhattan, the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, Staten Island, Governors Island or the Brooklyn Bridge. Thanks to modern technology, such as virtual presentations of the city’s history, a visit here is not just a sight to behold, but also an educational experience. One World Trade Center is located at so-called Ground Zero, the site where the WTC towers once stood. You can read more about Ground Zero and the memorial located here in a dedicated post about the WTC »
The Vessel
Although The Vessel is more of an art installation than an observation deck, its height and location in Hudson Yards offer a unique view of the city. A spiral staircase leads to different levels, from where you can admire the surrounding buildings and the Hudson River. It is worth mentioning that The Vessel was closed for a long time because many people made suicide attempts here.
Roosevelt Island Tramway
For those looking for a more unusual experience, a rope streetcar ride on Roosevelt Island can be an unforgettable experience. The Roosevelt Island Tramway offers panoramic views of the city and the Queensboro Bridge.
Brooklyn Heights Promenade and Brooklyn Bridge Park
If you prefer to stay on the ground but still want to enjoy the views, the Brooklyn Heights Promenade and Brooklyn Bridge Park are ideal places. They are located on the East River and offer a great perspective to see Manhattan and the Brooklyn Bridge. And while you’re in Brookline, be sure to head to DUMBO, where iconic views of the Manhattan Bridge await with… Empire State Building in the background!
The view from New Jersey
As an alternative to Brooklyn, you can go to Pier A Park, Pier C Park in Hoboken or Weehawken Waterfront Park in New Jersey – from here you also get one of the best free views of Manhattan, albeit from a greater distance. In New Jersey, another place that offers views of Manhattan is at the elevated Hamilton Park or Liberty State Park just off the Empty Sky Memorial.
230 Fifth Rooftop Bar
It’s a place where you can combine the pleasant with the useful. This popular rooftop bar offers views of the Empire State Building. It’s the perfect place to enjoy the view while relaxing over dinner, especially in the evening when the city lights up with thousands of lights.
Helicopter flight
Finally, one more idea, completely different from all of them and definitely more expensive, but in our opinion, it is one of those experiences on which there is no need to save. Flying over Manhattan in a helicopter, and even more so in a helicopter without doors, is an absolutely unique experience. These amazing views stay forever! Depending on the company you choose and the length of your flight, you have the opportunity to see New York City from a bird’s eye view and take a look at such places and attractions as the Statue of Liberty on Liberty Island, Ellis Island, the Brooklyn Bridge, you can see Central Park and the skyscrapers of Manhattan. You can read more about the helicopter flight over New York in this post »
Viewpoints in New York – which one to choose?
The decision to choose an observation deck in New York depends on several factors, such as your budget, your preference for views, or your desire for history and additional experiences. Each of the described points offers a view of Manhattan, but also has its own unique features that are worth considering before booking and buying a ticket. We chose several, because we didn’t want to limit ourselves to just one observation deck. Many of the points offer a view of Manhattan, but some of them give something more – additional attractions, multimedia, take a closer look at history, architecture, etc.
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Are you going to New York City?
Check out this map of attractions!
Planning a trip to New York City and looking for interesting places to visit? This New York attractions map is the perfect solution for you! It features over 80 locations worth considering when organizing your trip:
✅ Viewpoints,
✅ museums,
✅ known buildings,
✅ parks,
✅ …and much more!
Map of attractions – New York City >>>
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So what should guide your choice?
- View – If you want to admire Central Park, the best choice is Top of the Rock. Do you dream of Hudson River views and sunsets? Select Edge. A classic view of Downtown Manhattan? Choose the Empire State Building, and if you want to see the Statue of Liberty on Liberty Island or Ellis Island then One World Observatory at One World Trade Center is a good destination.
- Experience – Summit One Vanderbilt offers state-of-the-art art installations, an infinity room and glass floors that will make you feel like New York City from every angle. If you appreciate classics and history, the Empire State Building is a must-see.
- Time of visit – Some terraces are more crowded at certain times of the day. For example, the Empire State Building is popular in the evenings, so plan your visit in advance and expect crowds at the top.
What are the prices?
Ticket prices for the observation decks vary depending on the day and time of the visit and any additional packages. Unfortunately, none of these above-described places offer free views, but New York is teeming with other places that are free and, although definitely lower, offer great perspective and even panoramic views.
But how are the prices of our favorite viewpoints? In general, it can be written that prices start at $40 per person, although, as a rule, it will be a few or even tens of dollars more. Remember that there are taxes and booking fees on top of the quoted amounts (including on websites).
- Top of the Rock: from $40 per adult.
- Summit One Vanderbilt: from $39, with additional fees for attractions such as Ascent elevators.
- Edge: from $40, with the option to purchase Climb City or VIP packages.
- Empire State Building: from $44 for a standard ticket, additional fees for access to 102. floors.
What else should you pay attention to when wanting to see Manhattan from above?
- Opening hours – it’s always a good idea to check opening hours, and the times when ticket prices are most expensive, to avoid crowds and not go bankrupt ;)
- Weather – Views may be limited during fog or rain, so check the forecast before visiting. Admittedly, we often recommend booking tickets in advance, but sometimes it’s worth waiting until the last minute if the weather is expected to be inclement.
- Ticket availability – Some terraces are so popular that it can be difficult to purchase tickets for not only a specific time, but even a day.
Each of the observation decks offers an unforgettable experience. The choice depends on your expectations and what sights or attractions you want to see. With this variety, you are sure to find a place that will fulfill your dreams and choose great viewpoints.
Map of the best observation decks in Manhattan
To help you plan your trip around New York, we have prepared a map with the locations of all the described viewpoints. This way you can easily plan your route and make the most of your time to see Manhattan. We’ve highlighted the places that offer the best views, but we’ve only focused on those at altitude – time will come for the others in a dedicated post (coming soon) :)
And if you are looking for a ready-made New York City itinerary and ideas for exploring the city, be sure to check out the 7-day itinerary we have prepared.
New York – where to stay overnight?
When visiting New York, you don’t have to choose accommodation near the observation decks. You are unlikely to have a problem getting around the city by subway, so it is more important to have a hotel near the station.
For us, it was equally important to have a hotel WITH A VIEW. We agonized looking for it, but we managed to find a tall hotel and on top of that we got the 46th floor! We had a fantastic view, almost like from an observation deck :) We woke up looking at the skyscrapers of Manhattan in the distance, and with good visibility you could even see the Statue of Liberty. Amazing views accompanied us all the time, although, of course, it would have been a shame to sit in the hotel all day.
Below is a list of some of our recommended accommodations, including, of course, the one we stayed at:
- SpringHill Suites by Marriott New York Manhattan Chelsea
Address: 140 West 28th Street, Chelsea, New York, 10001
Prices: from 1800 PLN for a 2-bed room per night (breakfast included)
Link: http://r4b.link/booking-nyc
- M Social Hotel Times Square New York
Address: 226 West 52nd Street, New York, NY 10019
Prices: from 2100 PLN for a 2-bed room per night
Link: http://r4b.link/nyc-msocial
- Doubletree By Hilton New York Times Square West
Address: 350 West 40th Street, Hell’s Kitchen, New York, NY 10018
Prices: from 1500 PLN for a 2-bed room per night
Link: http://r4b.link/nyc-doubletree-by-hilton
- Millennium Downtown New York
Address: 55 Church Street, Wall Street – Financial District, New York, NY 10007
Prices: from 1750 PLN for a 2-bed room per night
Link: http://r4b.link/nyc-millenium
It is worth booking in advance, especially during the tourist season.
Our opinion – where to admire New York from above?
New York offers many opportunities to enjoy the city’s skyline, with each observation deck providing an unforgettable experience. Whether you opt for classic views or modern attractions, one thing is for sure – seeing New York from above is a must on any trip.
As you might have read above, there is no single point that offers the best views. From one you can see Central Park in all its glory, and from another you can see Lower Manhattan. Some are higher and some are lower, but all offer unforgettable views.
And let’s not forget that New York City is full of beautiful and famous frames from the one from DUMBO on the Manhattan Bridge, which in our opinion is the best vantage point in Brooklyn, with views from the Manhattan Bridge through the holes in the fence to Manhattan and the Brooklyn Bridge, through the High Line, to the many views of the Statue of Liberty (for example, during the Staten Island Ferry cruise). There are really many ways to see Manhattan, and it’s hard to choose the best views.
See more posts about United States »
--- self-promotion ---
Are you going to New York City?
Check out this map of attractions!
Planning a trip to New York City and looking for interesting places to visit? This New York attractions map is the perfect solution for you! It features over 80 locations worth considering when organizing your trip:
✅ Viewpoints,
✅ museums,
✅ known buildings,
✅ parks,
✅ …and much more!
Map of attractions – New York City >>>
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