The competition is fierce when it comes to crowing a winner in the battle of the best observation decks in New York City. There are 5 major NYC viewing platforms and each observation deck offers different experiences along with epic views.
But which observation deck should you visit during your time in NYC?
We have personally summited all 5 of New York City's popular observation decks multiple times during different times of the day. So you can consider us experts when it comes to helping you find the best observation deck in the city for your needs.
Our goal is to use our personal experience at each location to help you make an informed decision about which observation deck is the best for you. We want you to have the best time possible in New York City.
Below is exactly what you can expect from this guide comparing the best observation decks in New York City:
Now, let's find the best observation deck in NYC!
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A trip to New York City is not complete without seeing the famous NYC skyline from above. We recommend you consider visiting at least one observation deck if this is your first time to New York City.
If you are a returning visitor to NYC, use this guide to figure out which observation deck you should visit next.
There are currently 5 major observation decks in New York City:
But there are two additional NYC viewing platforms we want to briefly discuss.
If you plan to visit the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island, your general admission ticket will grant you access to the pedestal. But did you know you can also visit the crown of the Statue of Liberty by purchasing an extra ticket?
The viewing platform in the crown is unique because you will climb an additional 270ft inside this iconic statue. From the top, there are 25 different windows rewarding you with views of Manhattan from across the Hudson River.
Unfortunately, the Statue of Liberty crown was closed for several years during the pandemic, but it has recently reopened for tourists. Visit the NPS website for more information about prices and official reopening plans.
The Chrysler Building is an easily recognizable art deco skyscraper found on the east side of Manhattan. When it was completed in 1930, it held the title as the world's tallest building until the Empire Building surpassed this record just a year later in 1931.
But in 2020, the Landmarks Preservation Commission approved plans for a new observation deck in the Chrysler Building from the 61st floor. You can see the plans and news article here.
While this observation deck has not been completed yet, it is certainly one to keep on your radar.
Edge at Hudson Yards is one of the newer observation decks in New York City. Opened in 2020, this is the highest outdoor sky deck sitting 1,131ft above Manhattan.
The sky deck at Edge is located on the 100th floor and features a large triangular open air viewing platform. You can also opt for the City Climb experience which we will discuss later in this guide.
Location: West side of Midtown Manhattan
Address: 30 Hudson Yards, New York, NY 10001
Click here for the Google Maps location.
Hours of Operation: 10:00am - 10:00pm daily
Height of Observation Deck: Sky deck on 100th floor (1,131ft or 345m), City Climb (1,271ft or 387)
Exhibits: Informational displays about sustainability and history of Edge plus light display
Elevator Experience: 4th to 100th floor in 52 seconds
New York Attraction Pass: New York C3 Pass, NY Sightseeing Pass, Go City New York, New York Pass
You will need a ticket to visit Edge and sunset is the best time to visit this observation deck.
There are five tickets types you can purchase at Edge. But keep in mind you will pay $10 more for a sunset time slot unless booking the flex pass option.
Compare ticket prices on the official Edge website or Get Your Guide to find the best price for your needs.
Edge at Hudson yards is located inside the shops at Hudson Yards. In order to reach the entrance for Edge observation deck, you must enter Hudson Yards on the ground floor.
Once inside, take the elevator (or escalator) to the 4th floor. From here, follow the signs directing you to Edge Observation Deck.
If using the subway to get to Edge, take the 7 line subway to 34th street. The entrance to Hudson Yards is just a few minutes walk after exiting the subway platform.
You can also walk the High Line (beginning on the corner of Gansevoort St and Washington St in the Meatpacking District), which ends at the Vessel and Hudson Yards Shops.
Or you can take an Uber, Lyft to taxi directly to Hudson Yards.
Edge at Hudson Yards is unique because the sky deck on the 100th floor is currently New York City's highest outdoor viewing platform.
From Edge sky deck, this is what you can see:
But there are a few experiences at Edge also worth mentioning. These are the best things to do at Edge:
There are many reasons to visit Edge at Hudson Yards. This is what we like and why you should visit about Edge:
But there are also a few cons to visiting Edge at Hudson Yards. This is what we don't like about Edge:
Want to know more about Edge? Don't miss our complete guide to visiting Edge at Hudson Yards in New York City.
The Empire State Building is easily the most recognizable and famous building in New York City. At the time of completion in 1931, it officially became the tallest building in the world.
Today, the Empire State Building (ESB) now ranks as the 4th tallest building in New York City, but it certainly rivals other observation decks in the city just by history, reputation and fame alone.
At the Empire State Building, there are two observation decks you can visit. One deck is on the 86th floor and the other deck is located on the 102nd floor, but costs an additional fee.
Location: Midtown Manhattan
Address: 20 W 34th St., New York, NY 10001
Click here for the Google Maps location.
Hours of Operation: 10:00am - 12:00am daily
Height of Observation Deck: 86th floor (1,050ft or 320m), 102nd floor (1,250ft or 381m)
Exhibits: Two complete floors of exhibits on 2nd and 80th floor
Elevator Experience: 2nd to 80th floor in less than a minute and basic ride from 80th to 86th floor
New York Attraction Pass: New York CityPASS, NY Sightseeing Pass, Go City New York, New York Pass
The New York CityPASS truly shines at this observation deck because this pass allows you to visit the Empire State Building both during the day and at night on the same day without an extra cost.
There are two main ticket options for the Empire State Building.
Compare ticket prices on the official Empire State Building website or Get Your Guide to find the best price for your needs.
The Empire State Building is located at the heart of Manhattan on 34th St and 5th Ave.
Head southwest through Manhattan, passing Times Square and Bryant Park as far as W 34th Street to find New York City's historic landmark and centerpiece.
The enormous Empire State Building is squashed tightly between 34th and 33rd streets / 5th and 6th avenues, close to several of the best hotels in NYC.
Access to the building entrance is on W 34th Street, half way between 5th and 6th avenues. Make sure to look up when you arrive and take in the looming views of the Empire State Building from the street.
The Empire State Building is unique because this was New York City's first observation deck.
We can also tell you from experience the exhibits at the Empire State Building are the best out of all New York City's observation decks.
From the Empire State Building, this is what you can see:
If you are interesting in learning about the history of New York as well as this iconic structure, this is certainly the observation deck for you.
These are the exhibits at the Empire State Building spread out amongst the 2nd and 80th floors:
There are many reasons to visit the ESB. This is what we like about the Empire State Building and why you should visit:
But there are also a few cons to visiting the ESB. This is what we don't like about the Empire State Building:
Want to learn more about the Empire State Building? Read our detailed guide to visiting the Empire State Building in New York City.
The One World Trade Center was completed in 2012 as a tribute of remembrance to those who lost their lives in the terrorist attacks of September 11th, 2001.
The One World Observatory observation deck sits on top of One World Trade Center which was built on the original site of 6 World Trade Center.
This building is more than just an observation deck because it resembles strength and resilience for the people of NYC as well as the United States of America.
At the time of completion, One World Trade Center surpassed the Empire State Building as the tallest structure in New York City.
The One World Trade Center has 94 floors with One World Observatory located on the 100th, 101st and 102nd floors featuring a panoramic 360 degree view.
Location: Lower Manhattan
Address: 117 West St, New York, NY 10006
Click here for the Google Maps location.
Hours of Operation: 9:00am - 9:00pm, daily.
Height of Observation Deck: 102nd floor (1,268ft or 386m)
Exhibits: Horizon Grid featuring Voices and the Foundations Room
Elevator Experience: One of the fastest elevators in the western hemisphere (102 stories in 47 seconds)
New York Attraction Pass: NY Sightseeing Pass, Go City New York, New York Pass
There are four main ticket options and unlike many other of the NYC observation decks, there is no additional fee to visit during sunset.
Compare ticket prices on the official One World Observatory or Get Your Guide to find the best price for your needs.
Travel Tip: Get Your Guide tends to be the cheapest option for One World Observatory.
The One World Observatory observation deck is located inside the One World Trade Center at the corner of West and Vesey Streets in lower Manhattan.
The use of public transportation is highly recommended to visit One World Observatory because there is no on site parking and on-street parking is extremely limited.
The closest subway stop is the World Trade Center station along the E line.
One World Observatory is unique because it is the tallest building in the western hemisphere. It is also the only observation deck in the city located in Lower Manhattan.
From One World Observatory, this is what you can see:
But there are a few experiences at One World Observatory worth mentioning. These are the best things to do at One World Observatory:
There are many reasons to visit One World Observatory. This is what we like about One World Observatory and why you should visit:
But there are also a few cons to visiting One World Observatory. This is what we don't like about One World Observatory:
Interested in the One World Trade Center? You might like our guide to visiting One World Observatory in Lower Manhattan.
SUMMIT One Vanderbilt is New York City's newest observation deck. Completed in 2021, this deck also features the ascent elevator, which has the largest glass floor elevators in the world.
The SUMMIT observation deck is located between the 91st and 93rd floors of One Vanderbilt. The 91st and 92nd floors are completely enclosed while the 93rd floor showcases an outdoor viewing platform.
Location: Midtown Manhattan
Address: 5 E 42nd St, New York, NY 10017
Click here for the Google Maps location.
Hours of Operation: 9:00am - 12:00pm everyday except Tuesday
Height of Observation Deck: 91st - 93rd floor, Ascent elevator (1,210ft or 269m)
Exhibits: Many interactive art installations (see more details below)
Elevator Experience: Ascent (extra cost) features largest glass floor elevators in the world
New York Attraction Pass: None
There are three main ticket options with both day, sunset and evening price categories. You will pay about $10 more for a sunset or night time visit time.
New York City residents also receive a small discount on SUMMIT observation deck tickets.
Compare ticket prices on the official SUMMIT One Vanderbilt website or Get Your Guide to find the best price for your needs.
There are two ways to enter One Vanderbilt.
You can enter through 45 East 42nd St between Madison and Vanderbilt Ave. Look for the black SUMMIT One Vanderbilt signs, take the escalator down and follow the arrows pointing you to the "observation deck." This is how we entered the SUMMIT observation deck.
The second entrance can be found directly inside Grand Central Terminal on the main concourse level. Once inside Grand Central Station, look southwest for the "ticket machines, subway and 42nd St" sign and take this passage.
You then want to continue to the "subway shuttle passage" and "Vanderbilt Ave 42nd & 43rd St" signs which will lead you to the basement of One Vanderbilt. From here, look for the black SUMMIT One Vanderbilt signs and follow the arrows for "observation deck."
SUMMIT One Vanderbilt is more than just an observation deck, it is an entire experience. The reflective art installations provide views you won't get anywhere else in the city.
From SUMMIT One Vanderbilt, this is what you can see:
If you are interested in photography and unique perspective views of New York City, this is a great observation deck for you to visit because of the exhibits.
These are the exhibits at SUMMIT One Vanderbilt:
There are many reasons to visit SUMMIT One Vanderbilt. This is what we like about SUMMIT One Vanderbilt and why you should visit:
But there are also a few cons to visiting SUMMIT One Vanderbilt. This is what we don't like about SUMMIT One Vanderbilt:
Want to visit SUMMIT One Vanderbilt? Don't miss our guide to visiting SUMMIT One Vanderbilt observation deck so you know exactly what to expect.
The Top of the Rock observation deck is located at the top of 30 Rockefeller Plaza.
This Rockefeller building is one of the 14 original art deco structures within the Rockefeller Center complex. These buildings were commissioned in the 1930s by the Rockefeller family between 5th and 6th Avenue.
The Top of the Rock observation deck can be found at the top 3 floors featuring a panoramic 360-degree unobstructed view from the 70th floor.
Location: Upper Midtown Manhattan
Address: 30 Rockefeller Plaza, New York, NY 10112
Click here for the Google Maps location.
Hours of Operation: 9:00am-11:00pm, daily
Height of Observation Deck: 67th floor (820ft or 250m) and 70th floor (850ft or 259m)
Exhibits: Mezzanine exhibit and optional 4 small films in theater
Elevator Experience: 850 feet in 42 seconds plus a light show
New York Attraction Pass: New York CityPASS, NY Sightseeing Pass, Go City New York, New York Pass
There are three main ticket options, but if you choose to visit during the sunset slot, you will pay $10 more for your ticket.
Compare ticket prices on the official Top of the Rock website or Get Your Guide to find the best price for your needs.
If you are looking at a map of Manhattan, 30 Rockefeller Center is between Times Square and Central Park.
Top of the Rock is in Rockefeller Plaza on 5th and 6th Avenue or 49th and 50th Street. You will most likely recognize the prominent building from the street before heading to the entrance.
Access to the building entrance is on W 50th Street, closer to 6th avenue and opposite Radio City. Look for a bright red carpet with "Top of the Rock" in huge letters.
Top of the Rock is a unique observation deck because it was one of the two originals. The views from Top of the Rock are exceptional with a close view of the Empire State Building as well as Central Park.
From Top of the Rock, this is what you can see:
Each of the three floors at Top of the Rock have both indoor and outdoor viewing platforms. The top 70th floor is where this observation shines because you are rewarded with unobstructed and 360 degree views of Manhattan.
Be sure to visit the 67th, 69th and 70th floors of Top of the Rock observation deck.
There are many reasons to visit Top of the Rock. This is what we like about Top of the Rock and why you should visit:
But there are also a few cons to visiting Top of the Rock. This is what we don't like about Top of the Rock:
Want to see Central Park and the Empire State Building close up? This is everything you need to know when visiting Top of the Rock observation deck.
The best time to visit any observation deck in New York City is about an hour before sunset. But unfortunately, this is also the most popular time to visit.
So if you want to avoid the crowds, reserve one of the first time slots of the day (usually around 9 or 10am) or wait several hours until the sun has fully set.
We have visited various observation decks in New York City at all times of the day. From our experience, we can tell you there are pros and cons to each time of day.
If your schedule allows and to get the most out of your experience, reserve a time slot about an hour before sunset. But then wait at the top of the observation deck for the sun to fully set.
All 5 of NYC's observation decks do not have a time limit to how long you can remain at the top. This is how you can take advantage of seeing the NYC skyline during the day, at sunset and at night on the same day.
The summer months of June, July and August are peak visiting times for tourism in New York City and this is when observations decks are busiest.
To avoid the peak, either visit New York City in Winter or plan your trip in an off season month such as visiting NYC in April.
Here's a link to our interactive Google Map for the best NYC observation decks.
Click or touch the map to open in a new window, zoom in and out, scroll around and familiarize yourself with the area. Alternatively, you can click any observation deck you are interested in via the left column.
You will find icons at the exact location for each NYC observation deck mentioned in this guide.
There are many variables when it comes to selecting the best observation deck in New York City. The answer is not a one size fits all type of situation.
So we are going to break down each NYC Observation deck by specific category.
The highest observation deck in NYC is One World Observatory at One World Trade Center.
Below we have listed each New York City observation deck ranked by height.
These are the highest points you can reach at each observation deck. But the asterisk (*) means you will have to pay more than the general admission or basic ticket price to reach that height.
Keep in mind the City Climb experience at Edge, which is technically not an 'observation deck' because it is classified as an experience, will allow you to reach the highest point in New York City at 1,271 ft (387m).
This is an additional 3ft more than the One World Observatory and you will be suspended outside of the building. But the City Climb experience costs a whopping $185 per person.
There is a tie for the cheapest observation deck in NYC: One World Observatory and Edge at Hudson Yards.
But the official winner for the cheapest NYC observation deck is One World Observatory because there is no extra $10 fee for the popular sunset time slot. However, there is a $5 processing fee if booked on the official One World Observatory website.
Below we have listed each New York City observation deck ranked by price from cheapest to most expensive.
These first lot of prices includes only the basic general admission ticket, but the second lot of prices includes most expensive add ons for each observation deck.
Please also keep in mind the asterisk (*) means you will have to pay an additional $10 if visiting that observation deck at the peak sunset time slot.
The most expensive NYC observation decks ranked for most expensive add ons include:
The newest observation deck in New York City is SUMMIT One Vanderbilt.
Below we have listed the 5 NYC observation decks in order of age from youngest to oldest.
This last criteria is sure to spark some debate because everyone is bound to have different opinions about the best views in New York City.
Best view for photographers: Top of the Rock
Unobstructed views from the 70th floor giving you the ability to take great photos with no glare.
Best view for Influencers: SUMMIT One Vanderbilt
With sensory overload in almost every room, there is no such thing as a bad photo at this observation deck.
Best view of Lower Manhattan: One World Observatory
If you would like to see the Brooklyn Bridge and the State of Liberty, this is the observation deck for you.
Best view for sunset: Top of the Rock (completely unobstructed)
With a location on the east side of Manhattan, you will experience sunset with a view of One World Observatory, the Empire State Building, Edge and SUMMIT One Vanderbilt as the sun sets to the west.
Now that we have covered the basic categories for the best NYC observation decks, we believe there are a few other factors you need to consider.
Best NYC observation deck elevator experience: One World Observatory
There is no competition when it comes to the One World Observatory elevator experience.
Not only will you ascend to the 102nd floor in 47 seconds, making this the fastest elevator in the world, but the short film played inside the elevator showcases 300 years of history in NYC.
Best NYC observation deck for exhibits: Empire State Building
Of course, the oldest and most iconic observation deck in NYC also has the best exhibits. While the views from the Empire State Building are stunning, we believe the exhibits are the best part on the 2nd and 80th floor.
If you are interested in learning about the history of New York City, this is the observation deck for you.
Best NYC observation deck location: Top of the Rock
All 5 of New York City's observation decks are located in Manhattan. Four of the observation decks are in Midtown while just one is located in Lower Manhattan.
We believe Top of the Rock has the best view of the other NYC observation decks as well as the only location on this list to have a clear view of Central Park.
Top of the Rock is our favorite observation deck in New York City.
While Top of the Rock is not the most impressive building when standing on the streets of Manhattan, we personally think this observation deck has the best views in all of New York City.
As professional photographers, we love the unobstructed views on the 70th floor and the extremely close view of the iconic Empire State Building.
A general admission ticket to Top of the Rock gives you access to all three floors and you can revisit any floor you visit. Overall, this is the best observation deck in NYC if you want a no frills experience with amazing views.
However, SUMMIT One Vanderbilt comes as a close second for us because this observation deck is an extremely photogenic place.
But it is difficult to take photos at SUMMIT due to all the people and the large glass windows. However, SUMMIT One Vanderbilt is an experience you won't find anywhere else in the world.
If this is your first time to New York City, we would recommend you visit two observation decks.
1). One of the originals - Empire State Building or Top of the Rock
2). Then choose one of the modern options - One World Observatory, Edge at Hudson Yards or SUMMIT One Vanderbilt
All of the New York City observation decks are included on NYC attractions passes with the exception of SUMMIT One Vanderbilt.
We visited every observation deck in New York with attraction passes so we can speak directly from experience.
You should consider purchasing a New York attractions pass if you plan to visit more than one NYC observation deck as well as several of the top attractions in New York City.
Buying a New York attractions pass will give you instant access to the most iconic NYC museums, landmarks and observation decks at a discounted price.
The idea is simple in that the more attractions you visit, the more discount you will recieve and the more money you save. It's very similar to buying in bulk.
Here are the 4 NY attraction pass competitors:
Having used the NYC attraction passes ourselves when we lived in New York, we recommend the New York Sightseeing Pass because its extremely easy to use while offering both flexibility and big savings.
However, the New York CityPASS has a unique option giving you two separate entries to Empire State Building, once during the day and once during the night within 24 hours.
As we mentioned, every observation deck is included on the NY Sightseeing Pass with the exception of SUMMIT One Vanderbilt and we have an exclusive 10% discount just for our readers.
Want To Save Money In NYC?
Use the button below to claim 10% off any NY Sightseeing Pass.
You can also read our detailed comparison to the New York attractions passes to help you decide which New York pass you should purchase for your visit to the Big Apple.
Below you can find the observation decks participating on each New York pass:
Let's take a quick look at some of the most frequently asked questions about the best observation decks in New York City.
Top of the Rock is the best observation deck in New York City because you have unobstructed views, it's one of the cheapest options, it's one of the original viewing platforms from the 1930s and you can see Central Park as well as the Empire State Building.
However, SUMMIT One Vanderbilt, NYC's newest observation deck, is an experience itself offering endless photo opportunities and interactive exhibits with stunning views.
An visit to a NYC observation deck will cost you anywhere from $38 to $185 per person.
The Top of the Rock or Edge at Hudson Yards has the best NYC view. At Top of the Rock, you can see Central Park as well as the Empire State Building. While from Edge, you can see the Hudson River, New Jersey, Midtown and Lower Manhattan as well as the Empire State Building and Chrysler Building.
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Want more New York content? Head over to our New York travel guides to explore the Finger Lakes, Adirondacks and the best of NYC.
Please let us know if you have any questions about any NYC observation decks or New York City in the comment below.
Happy Travels,
Mark and Kristen
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