New York City is a top spot for those who love amazing views. The One World Observatory is a key place, offering views over 1,250 feet high. It’s perfect for seeing the city’s tall buildings or peaceful parks.
This guide will show you the best places to see New York’s beauty. You’ll find everything from famous spots to hidden spots. Get ready to see the Big Apple’s most photogenic spots and make your visit unforgettable.
Key Takeaways
- New York City offers a wealth of breathtaking viewpoints for visitors to enjoy
- From towering observation decks to hidden rooftop bars, the city’s skyline is on full display
- Scenic parks, bridges, and waterfront locations provide alternative perspectives of the Big Apple
- Capturing the city’s iconic vistas is a must for any photographer or sightseeing enthusiast
- Exploring New York’s best views is an essential part of a truly unforgettable visit
Iconic New York Scenic Viewpoints
New York City is famous for its stunning skyline and breathtaking views. It has many iconic spots for capturing the essence of the city. From the high Empire State Building to the wide views from the Top of the Rock, these places offer classic New York City views.
Top of the Rock
The Top of the Rock sits over 850 feet high in Midtown Manhattan. It gives visitors 360-degree views of the city. You can see the Manhattan skyline from midtown, the best views of Central Park, and the Empire State Building far away. This iconic NYC viewpoint is a top spot for those wanting to see classic New York City views.
Empire State Building
A visit to New York isn’t complete without seeing the Empire State Building. This 1,454-foot Art Deco skyscraper has observation decks on the 86th and 102nd floors. The 86th floor deck is more popular for its open-air views of the best skyline views of Manhattan.
One World Observatory
The One World Observatory at the One World Trade Center is over 1,250 feet high. It offers stunning views of Lower Manhattan and the harbor from floors 100 to 102. Visitors can see the views from New York’s tallest building here. For a full experience, consider visiting the 9/11 Memorial and Museum too.
best views in new york
New York City is famous for its stunning skyline and breathtaking views. From the tall skyscrapers of Midtown to the peaceful waterfront parks, it has many scenic overlooks manhattan and top viewing spots nyc. These spots let travelers enjoy the city’s beauty.
Looking for classic views from high places or hidden gems? This guide will show you the best and iconic new york vistas. Get ready to be amazed by the sights that make New York a top destination for views.
Iconic Observation Decks
Visiting New York isn’t complete without seeing its famous observation decks. These spots offer the best views in new york from high up. The Top of the Rock at Rockefeller Center has 360-degree views from the 69th and 70th floors. The Empire State Building has decks on the 86th and 102nd floors, showing off the skyline. The One World Observatory at the One World Trade Center gives you amazing scenic overlooks manhattan and digital experiences.
| Observation Deck | Floor Levels | Ticket Prices | Hours of Operation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Top of the Rock | 67th, 69th, 70th | Starting at $40 | 8 am – 12 am (last entry at 11:10 pm) |
| Empire State Building | 86th, 102nd | Starting at $44 (86th floor), $79 (combo) | 9 am – 1 am |
| One World Observatory | 102nd | Starting at $42 | 9 am – 9 pm (subject to seasonal variations) |
The SUMMIT One Vanderbilt is a new spot that combines great top viewing spots nyc with art on the 91st to 93rd floors. The Edge in Hudson Yards is the highest observation deck, offering a unique glass floor experience.
“The views from the top of the Empire State Building are simply breathtaking. It’s the best way to see the iconic New York City skyline in all its glory.”
NYC’s Scenic Waterfront Lookouts
New York City has many beautiful spots to see the water and the city. You can see the Manhattan skyline, the Brooklyn Bridge, and the calm New York Harbor. Places like Brooklyn Bridge Park and Gantry Plaza State Park are perfect for enjoying these views.
Brooklyn Bridge Park
The 85-acre Brooklyn Bridge Park along the East River is great for seeing the Manhattan skyline and New York Harbor. At Pier 2 and Pier 6, you can see the Brooklyn Bridge, tall skyscrapers, and beautiful water. There’s a waterfront path, the Statue of Liberty, and amazing skyline at sunset to enjoy.
Gantry Plaza State Park
Gantry Plaza State Park in Long Island City is a 12-acre park with great views of the Manhattan skyline. You can see the city’s skyscrapers and the Chrysler Building lights at sunset. It’s near the 7 train, making it easy to visit and see the New York City skyline at its best.
Valentino Pier
Valentino Pier in Brooklyn’s Red Hook offers amazing views of the New York Harbor. The pier sticks out into the East River, giving you panoramic views of the Statue of Liberty, Governor’s Island, and the Lower Manhattan skyline. It’s perfect for a peaceful sunset, with the city skyline against the sky.
“The waterfront parks and piers of New York City offer some of the most breathtaking and iconic views of the Manhattan skyline and the New York Harbor.”
Panoramic Views from Iconic Bridges
New York City’s bridges are not just architectural wonders but also offer stunning views. Walking across the Brooklyn Bridge gives you 360-degree views of Lower Manhattan, the East River, and Brooklyn’s waterfront. The Manhattan Bridge’s pedestrian path shows off the Brooklyn and Manhattan skylines through its steel arches.
The Brooklyn Bridge, opened in 1883, was the longest suspension bridge in the world, with a main span of 1,595 feet. The Williamsburg Bridge, opened in 1903, was just five feet longer, becoming the longest suspension bridge. The Robert F. Kennedy Bridge, known as the Triborough Bridge before, opened in 1936, connecting Manhattan, Queens, and the Bronx over three bridges, a viaduct, and 14 miles of roads.
The George Washington Bridge, opened in 1931, has a 3,500-foot center span and towers that reach 570 feet. The Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge, opened in 1964, held the title of the world’s longest suspension span at 4,260 feet. It had 10,000 cars cross it on its first day. The Bronx-Whitestone Bridge started in 1961, 22 years after the Whitestone Bridge.
| Bridge | Opened | Span | Notable Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Brooklyn Bridge | 1883 | 1,595 feet | Longest suspension bridge at the time |
| Williamsburg Bridge | 1903 | 1,600 feet | Surpassed Brooklyn Bridge’s span |
| Robert F. Kennedy Bridge | 1936 | N/A | Covers three bridges, a viaduct, and 14 miles of approach roads |
| George Washington Bridge | 1931 | 3,500 feet | 570-foot tall towers |
| Verrazzano-Narrows Bridge | 1964 | 4,260 feet | World’s longest suspension span at the time |
| Bronx-Whitestone Bridge | 1961 | N/A | Opened 22 years after the Whitestone Bridge |
DUMBO in Brooklyn offers amazing views of the Manhattan skyline, drawing tourists and photographers. Visit early in the morning to beat the crowds, as it gets busy by 9:30 am. Main Street Park gives a close-up view of the Manhattan Bridge and the Manhattan skyline across the East River.
“The workshop emphasized the importance of seeking out unique perspectives and elements when photographing iconic landmarks like the Brooklyn Bridge.”
In a New York photography workshop, participants were challenged to take 5 different Brooklyn Bridge photos from various angles and focal lengths. They used ND filters for longer exposures to capture the water’s movement and avoid blur from passing boats. Photo walks and workshops help photographers of all levels improve their skills and learn about composition and techniques.
Rooftop Bars with Stunning City Views
New York’s rooftop bars give you a unique chance to see the city from above. You can see the iconic Manhattan bridges and the beautiful Brooklyn skyline. These places let you enjoy amazing views that make your drink even better.
The Crown
The Crown is on the 21st floor of The Crown Hotel 50 Bowery in Chinatown. It has great views of the Manhattan Bridge and Lower Manhattan. It’s a cozy spot where you can enjoy drinks and snacks while looking at the breathtaking panoramas.
Westlight
Westlight is on top of the William Vale hotel in Williamsburg. It’s a trendy bar that shows off the Brooklyn skyline. Inside and outside, you get to see the Williamsburg Bridge, Manhattan, and the East River. Here, you can try creative cocktails and enjoy the sweeping cityscapes. It’s a favorite spot for both visitors and locals.
| Rooftop Bar | Location | View | Unique Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Panorama Room | Roosevelt Island | Stunning views from the 18th floor | Opened in 2021 |
| Nubeluz | Ritz-Carlton Nomad | Sweeping views of Manhattan | Serves classic and signature cocktails |
| Daintree | Midtown | Plush upholstered seats | Dedicated martini menu |
| Jaffa Cocktail and Raw Bar | Hoxton Hotel | Raw bar items, cocktails, beer buckets, and wine | Opened in May 2022 |
“Westlight, standing 22 stories high, offers a marvelous view of the Manhattan skyline from inside the lounge-y space and out on its large terrace.”
Scenic Parks with Skyline Vistas
New York City is full of green spaces with amazing views of the Manhattan skyline. Sunset Park in Brooklyn and Wave Hill in the Bronx are two top spots for enjoying the city’s beauty.
Sunset Park
Sunset Park in Brooklyn lives up to its name with stunning views of the Manhattan skyline and the East River. It has a high spot where you can see the downtown skyscrapers. This is perfect for watching the sunset over the city.
Wave Hill
Wave Hill is in the Bronx’s Riverdale area. It’s a 28-acre garden and cultural center with views of the Hudson River and New Jersey Palisades. The place has a beautiful 19th-century mansion and lovely gardens. Visitors can explore the gardens, see the historic home, and enjoy views of the waterfront and New Jersey.
Looking for the Manhattan skyline from Brooklyn or Hudson River views from the Bronx? These parks are great for enjoying New York’s beauty and architecture.
Cruises and Ferries with Unbeatable Views
One of the best ways to see New York’s skyline is by taking the Staten Island Ferry. This ferry is free and goes between Lower Manhattan and Staten Island. You’ll see the city’s tall buildings, the Statue of Liberty, and Ellis Island. It’s perfect for both locals and tourists wanting to see the city’s beautiful waterfront.
New York’s harbor cruises and boat tours give you amazing views of the skyline. Circle Line Cruises offer tours around Manhattan. They let you see the city’s tall buildings, bridges, and landmarks from the water. These tours are great for both first-timers and those who know the city well.
| Cruise Type | Duration | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| Circle Line Landmarks Cruise | 90 minutes | $59 and up |
| Circle Line Best of NYC Cruise | 2.5 hours | $59 and up |
| Luxury Seastreak Catamaran Cruises | Varies | Varies |
| Classic Harbor Line Cruises | Varies | $108 and up |
Choosing the Staten Island Ferry or a New York sightseeing cruise means seeing the Manhattan skyline from the water. These best harbor tours in NYC give you a special view of the city’s landmarks. They let you see free views of Manhattan and Statue of Liberty sightseeing from a boat.
Helicopter Tours for Bird’s-Eye Views
For the ultimate sky-high view, a New York City helicopter tour is the best choice. These tours give you a thrilling view of the city’s tall buildings, rivers, and parks. You’ll see the city’s size and beauty from above. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime chance to see New York from a unique view.
New York City has helicopter tours for different needs and budgets. You can choose from short 12-15 minute flights or longer 25-30 minute ones. Many tours also offer photography services to capture the stunning views.
Plan your helicopter tour for spring or summer to avoid bad weather. A private tour can give you the best seat and photo spots. With their safety record and skilled pilots, helicopter tours are a fun way to see New York from above.
| Helicopter Tour Company | Rating (out of 5) | Number of Reviews |
|---|---|---|
| Liberty Helicopters | 3.7 | 87 |
| New York Helicopter Tours | 3.3 | 49 |
| Helicopter New York City | 3.7 | 3 |
| HeliNY | 4.2 | 81 |
| Manhattan Helicopters | 3.5 | 35 |
| Wings Air Helicopters | 4.7 | 67 |
| Flynyon | 3.1 | 283 |
| NYONAir | 2.8 | 12 |
| Flying Helicopters Made Easy | 5.0 | 1 |
Soar above the city and witness New York’s iconic sights from a bird’s-eye perspective.
New York City’s helicopter tours offer a unique way to see the aerial views of Manhattan and bird’s eye perspective of NYC. They’re perfect for special occasions or just to admire the city’s beauty. A scenic helicopter ride is an exciting part of any visit to New York City.
Iconic New York City Panoramic Spots
Discover two breathtaking spots in the Big Apple – the Metropolitan Museum of Art Roof Garden and the Edge Observation Deck. These spots offer views that will leave you amazed by New York City’s skyline.
The Metropolitan Museum of Art Roof Garden
At the Met Museum, a remarkable viewpoint awaits. The Roof Garden Café and Martini Bar sits atop the museum. It offers panoramic vistas of Central Park and the Upper East Side skyline.
This open-air terrace is perfect for sipping cocktails while enjoying the New York cityscape. It’s a peaceful spot above the city streets.
Edge Observation Deck
The Edge Observation Deck at Hudson Yards stands 1,100 feet tall. It’s the highest outdoor viewing platform in the Western Hemisphere. The deck extends 65 feet from the building.
It gives you 360-degree views of the iconic New York skyline. You can even stand on a transparent glass floor. This offers a thrilling view straight down at the city.
“The Met’s Roof Garden offers one of the most breathtaking vantage points in the city, with unparalleled views of Central Park and the iconic Manhattan skyline.”
| Viewpoint | Height | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Met Museum Roof Garden | Elevated above the city streets | Panoramic vistas of Central Park and Upper East Side skyline |
| Edge Observation Deck | 1,100 feet above Manhattan | Highest outdoor viewing platform in the Western Hemisphere, 360-degree views, glass floor |
Discovering Hidden Gems with Spectacular Views
New York City is famous for its iconic spots like the Empire State Building and the Brooklyn Bridge. But there’s more to see beyond these well-known places. Hidden spots like Gantry Plaza State Park and rooftop bars in boutique hotels offer unique views away from the crowds.
Exploring these hidden viewpoints lets you see New York in a new way. These lesser known viewpoints nyc and hidden scenic spots manhattan are underrated vantage points new york. They give you a special and memorable experience.
- Admire the glittering Manhattan skyline from the serene waterfront promenade of Gantry Plaza State Park in Long Island City.
- Sip cocktails while taking in the panoramic views from the rooftop bar at The High Line Hotel in Chelsea.
- Discover the stunning vistas of the Brooklyn Bridge and East River from the pedestrian walkway of the Manhattan Bridge.
- Explore the historic Roosevelt Island Lighthouse Park, featuring a lighthouse overlooking the East River, built in 1872.
- Enjoy the tranquility and scenic beauty of Pier 17 on the Lower Manhattan waterfront.
| Scenic Spot | Location | Unique Feature |
|---|---|---|
| Gantry Plaza State Park | Long Island City, Queens | Serene waterfront promenade with stunning Manhattan skyline views |
| The High Line Hotel | Chelsea, Manhattan | Rooftop bar with panoramic city vistas |
| Manhattan Bridge | Connects Manhattan and Brooklyn | Pedestrian walkway offering views of the Brooklyn Bridge and East River |
| Roosevelt Island Lighthouse Park | Roosevelt Island | Historic lighthouse overlooking the East River, built in 1872 |
| Pier 17 | Lower Manhattan | Tranquil waterfront with scenic views |
By exploring beyond the usual tourist spots, you can discover a different side of New York City. These hidden gems let you escape the crowds and see the city from a new angle.
Capturing New York’s Best Views on Camera
New York City is full of iconic skyscrapers, bridges, and waterfront scenes. It’s perfect for photography, whether you’re an expert or just taking photos with your phone. The city has many Instagram worthy viewpoints to explore. This guide will show you the best places to photograph nyc and share your adventures online.
Manhattanhenge is a natural wonder in the city. It happens twice a year, lighting up the streets with a warm glow. The best spots for this event are on 14th, 23rd, 34th, 42nd, and 57th Streets. These streets offer wide views of the Manhattan skyline.
For a different view, try Weehawken, New Jersey. It gives you a great look at the Manhattan skyline from the Hudson River. Closer to the city, Brooklyn Bridge Park and the DUMBO waterfront are great for photos. They show off the Brooklyn Bridge and Manhattan skyline beautifully.
Don’t miss the observation decks of the Empire State Building, One World Observatory, and the Metropolitan Museum of Art’s Roof Garden. The Oculus train station and the Brooklyn Bridge also offer great city views. These spots are perfect for capturing the city’s beauty.
New York has many places for photographers to explore. Whether you want a wide shot or a special view of a landmark, you’ll find inspiration here. So, take your camera and go out to capture the beauty of the Big Apple.
Conclusion
New York City’s skyline and scenic spots have always drawn people from all over the world. They come to capture the city’s beauty with their cameras. This guide has shown you the best places to see the city, from high-rise buildings to quiet waterfront spots. You can find everything from wide city views to peaceful nature scenes in New York.
From the stunning views at the Rockefeller Center to the old charm of Greenwich Village, each spot has its own magic. These places are perfect for anyone visiting New York for the first time or for those who know the city well. You’ll find new york city’s best scenic viewpoints, top places to see the manhattan skyline, and breathtaking views in the big apple here.
So, grab your camera and get ready to explore the most stunning new york city’s best scenic viewpoints, top places to see the manhattan skyline, and breathtaking views in the big apple. Discover hidden spots, famous landmarks, and everything in between. Dive into the unique and amazing views that make New York City special.