The Manhattan skyline is the most recognizable silhouette, with the best observation decks in NYC, if not the world. It is a living museum of ambition, representing over a century of architectural “one-upmanship.” For a visitor, the skyline isn’t just something to look at—it’s something to experience. This comprehensive guide covers everything from the “Big Five” observation decks to the hidden history of the city’s most famous spires. You might not see them all. Personally, I would visit the iconic Empire State Building for great views and an amazing tour of one of the oldest observation decks in NYC. BUT there are so many more new ones; here is a list. Make sure you visit their websites to confirm the times are right, as they do change with the weather and holidays!
To appreciate the observation decks, you have to understand the “Race to the Sky.”
One World ObservatoryLocation: One World Trade Center, 117 West Street, NYC 10007Hours: Daily, 9:00 AM – 9:00 PMTicket Prices: Starting at $39; All-Inclusive Experience at $59 (oneworldobservatory.com)Description: Located atop the tallest building in the Western Hemisphere, the One World Observatory offers breathtaking panoramic views of New York City. The experience includes a high-speed elevator ride with a virtual time-lapse of NYC’s history and interactive exhibits. Height: 1,268 ft (The building is a symbolic 1,776 ft) The Experience: Located in the Financial District. The elevator (SkyPod) shows a time-lapse of NYC’s growth since the 1500s. The view is entirely indoors behind floor-to-ceiling glass. Best For: Seeing the harbor, the Statue of Liberty, and the Brooklyn Bridge.
Empire State BuildingLocation: 350 5th Ave, NYC 10118Hours: Open daily; hours varyTicket Prices: $49 for the 86th-floor observatory; $84 for both 86th and 102nd floors (esbnyc.com) The Vibe: Pure nostalgia and Art Deco glamour. What Makes it Unique: It is the only deck that puts you in the middle of a historic museum experience before you reach the top. The 86th-floor open-air deck is iconic for its 360-degree “wind-in-your-hair” views. Height: 1,250 ft (1,454 ft to tip) The Experience: You enter through a multi-million dollar museum on the 2nd and 80th floors. The 86th floor is the famous open-air observatory. Best For: First-time visitors who want to feel like they are in a movie (Sleepless in Seattle, King Kong). Pro Tip: Go late at night (it’s often open until midnight) to see the city lights without the midday crowds.
Top of the Rock (Rockefeller Center)Location: 30 Rockefeller Plaza, NYC 10112Hours: 8:00 AM – Midnight (last elevator at 11:00 PM)Ticket Prices: Adults $42–$66; Seniors $40–$64; Children $36–$60 (rockefellercenter.com)Description: Top of the Rock provides unobstructed views of Central Park, the Empire State Building, and beyond. The recently introduced Skylift ride lifts visitors 900 feet for a unique perspective of the city. The Vibe: The best “balanced” view in New York. What Makes it Unique: Because it sits in Midtown, it offers the absolute best view of the Empire State Building to the south and Central Park to the north. Best For: Photographers who want the Empire State Building in their photos.
Edge at Hudson YardsLocation: 30 Hudson Yards, NYC 10001Hours: 9:00 AM – 10:00 PMTicket Prices: General Admission from $34; Champagne Experience from $55; Sunset VIP Experience from $109 (edgenyc.com)Description: As the highest outdoor sky deck in the Western Hemisphere, Edge offers a thrilling glass floor and angled glass walls for panoramic views. The Sunset VIP Experience includes champagne and priority entry. Height: 1,131 ft. The Experience: A massive triangular platform that juts out from the building. It features a glass floor and angled glass walls that allow you to lean out over the city. Best For: Thrill-seekers. If you’re really brave, you can try “City Climb,” where you scale the outside of the skyscraper.
SUMMIT One VanderbiltLocation: 45 E 42nd St, NYC 10017Hours: 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM (last entry at 8:30 PM)Ticket Prices: General Admission starting at $44 (summitov.com)Description: Located above Grand Central Terminal, SUMMIT offers an immersive experience with glass-floored observation decks, mirrored rooms, and interactive art installations. The Experience: This is an art installation by Kenzo Digital. You walk through rooms of mirrors, silver balloons, and glass ledges. Best For: Younger crowds, families, and those looking for the most “Instagrammable” experience in the city.
Chrysler BuildingLocation: 405 Lexington Ave, NYC 10174Hours: Not open to the publicTicket Prices: Not applicableDescription: The Chrysler Building doesn’t have public observatories, but its Art Deco spire and architectural details make it a must-see from the outside.
Bank of America TowerLocation: One Bryant Park, NYC 10036Hours: Not open to the publicTicket Prices: Not applicableDescription: This LEED Platinum-certified skyscraper is notable for its eco-friendly design and unique triangular shape.
Woolworth BuildingLocation: 233 Broadway, NYC 10279Hours: Not open to the publicTicket Prices: Not applicableDescription: Once the tallest building in the world, the Woolworth Building is a Gothic Revival masterpiece. Its exterior remains a stunning example of early 20th-century architecture.
MetLife BuildingLocation: 200 Park Ave, NYC 10166Hours: Not open to the publicTicket Prices: Not applicableDescription: Formerly the Pan Am Building, the MetLife Building is an iconic part of the Midtown skyline. Its distinctive design makes it a notable landmark.
One57Location: 157 W 57th St, NYC 10019Hours: Not open to the publicTicket Prices: Not applicableDescription: One of the tallest residential buildings in New York, One57 offers luxury living with panoramic views. Its height and design contribute prominently to the city skyline.
Some of the tallest buildings with observation decks include One World Observatory, Empire State Building, Top of the Rock (Rockefeller Center), Edge at Hudson Yards, and SUMMIT One Vanderbilt. Other iconic skyscrapers like the Chrysler Building and Woolworth Building are not open for public access.
One World Observatory: Starting at $39, All-Inclusive $59
Empire State Building: $49 for 86th floor, $84 for 86th + 102nd floors
Top of the Rock: Adults $42–$66, Seniors $40–$64, Children $36–$60
Edge at Hudson Yards: General $34, Champagne Experience $55, Sunset VIP $109
SUMMIT One Vanderbilt: Starting at $44
Early morning is ideal to avoid crowds and see the sunrise. Late afternoon or sunset provides beautiful city views and great photo opportunities. Night visits offer city lights and a unique perspective.
Empire State Building: Indoor 102nd floor, partially open-air 86th floor
Top of the Rock: Indoor and outdoor viewing decks
Edge at Hudson Yards: Outdoor deck with angled glass walls and glass floor
SUMMIT One Vanderbilt: Indoor/outdoor immersive experience
One World Observatory: Indoor, fully enclosed
Plan 1–2 hours for most observation decks, including time for lines, security, elevators, and taking photos.
Outside food and drinks are generally not allowed. Some locations, like Edge or One World Observatory, offer food and beverages for purchase, including champagne or snacks for VIP experiences.
Yes, most of the major observation decks are wheelchair accessible, including One World Observatory, Empire State Building, Top of the Rock, Edge, and SUMMIT One Vanderbilt.
Yes, photography and video recording are allowed. However, drones are prohibited. Some locations provide interactive photo opportunities.
It’s highly recommended, especially for sunset times or weekends. Online reservations often allow for skip-the-line access.
Some buildings, like the Empire State Building and One World Observatory, offer guided tours or multimedia experiences explaining the building’s history and city views.
No formal dress code, but comfortable shoes are recommended. Security screenings require that bags be small enough for inspection.
Most skyscrapers are accessible by subway or bus. One World Observatory: subway to WTC, Empire State: 34th Street Herald Square, Top of the Rock: 47–50th St Rockefeller Center, Edge: 34th Street Hudson Yards, SUMMIT: Grand Central Terminal.
Yes, some offer combination tickets, like Top of the Rock + Empire State Building, or One World Observatory + ferry passes to Statue of Liberty. These are usually sold online.
Yes, most observation decks are open at night, though closing hours vary. Night visits provide stunning views of the city lights.
Yes, all observation decks allow children. Some offer discounted tickets for ages 6–12, while children under 6 are often free.
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