New York skyscrapers – Which observation deck is best in NYC?

New York is one of the largest cities in the world, with a wealth of programmes and attractions. Some people visit to enjoy Broadway shows, others travel to the Big Apple specifically for the shopping and dining, and many just for the atmosphere and sights. Of course, the list of must-see attractions also includes New York’s skyscrapers and observation decks. 

Each has its own unique attractions, advantages and disadvantages, which I’ll try to summarise in the following post. The Empire State Building and One World Trade Center, for example, are iconic buildings in New York, offering fantastic panoramic views. The Top of the Rock offers excellent views of Central Park and the Empire State Building. The Edge is a little further away, but its height means it offers unrivalled views.

Your final choice will be determined by your personal preferences, your interests and your planned itinerary. It’s important to remember to book your tickets online in advance, as the lookouts are often crowded and you may not be able to buy tickets on the spot or you may have to queue for a long time.

Please note, this post may contain affiliate links.

Points of interest

Which city has the most skyscrapers?

List of cities by number of skyscrapers completed over 150 meters

1. Hong Kong – Hong Kong
2. Shenzhen – China
3. New York – United States
4. Dubai United – United Arab Emirates
5. Guangzhou – China

Why does NYC have so many skyscrapers?

New York is located on a small island with a large population, and as a result developers have tended to build upwards to make the most of the available space.

Explore more New York travel tips on my blog – Check it Now

How many skyscrapers are there in New York?

New York is third on the list, with more than 300 skyscrapers. As the city continues to evolve, the exact number is subject to change over time.

Which is the tallest skyscraper in New York?

The tallest building in New York is One World Trade Center, at 541 meters (2024). The 104-storey skyscraper, colloquially known as the Freedom Tower, is the tallest building in the Western Hemisphere and the seventh-tallest in the world.

Which is the tallest open observation deck in New York?

The Edge is the tallest open-air observation deck, located at 30 Hudson Yards. Although One World Observatory is higher, it is completely enclosed.

From the historic Empire State Building to the modern marvels like One World Trade Center, New York skyscrapers embody the city’s ever-evolving spirit and innovation. The allure of New York skyscrapers extends beyond their sheer height, drawing visitors and residents alike to admire their beauty and engineering ingenuity.

useful information

• To avoid the crowds, it’s best to schedule your visit for early morning or late evening or on a weekday.
• Depending on the view, allow at least 2-3 hours for sightseeing (queuing, exhibitions, attractions, etc.).
• If you want to catch the sunset, arrive early as the hour before sunset is the best time to take photos!
• Be prepared for security checks to speed up the process (e.g. no prohibited items, etc.).
• If you choose an open terrace, dress for the weather and remember that it’s colder and windier upstairs.
• Don’t forget to buy your ticket online in advance, as you may not be able to buy it on the spot or you may have to queue for a long time.

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New York skyscrapers and observation decks

One World Observatory

One World Trade Center – 541 meters

Does the tallest skyscraper offer the best view in New York City? In this case, the answer is definitely NO. Although the One World Trade Center (or Freedom Tower) is the tallest man-made building in the Western Hemisphere (541 meters), the tower is located in Lower Manhattan, so you will feel very far away from the rest of the city.

Despite the beautiful 360-degree views, the observation decks in the centre of Manhattan offer a much better experience, because you can’t see Central Park from here, for example. In addition, it is the only one of the observation decks that is completely enclosed, which definitely spoils the experience. There’s nothing more exciting than feeling the wind at this altitude…

There is a bar/restaurant (One Dine) and a gift shop on site.

Pros:

• The location offers great views of the Statue of Liberty and the Brooklyn Bridge.
• The elevator offers a short film about Manhattan history while you travel.
• From the top, you can see the tiny ferries and cruise boats speeding by below.

Cons: 

• Completely enclosed and far from New York’s iconic buildings.

Building height: 546 meters
Observation deck height: 386.5 meters (102nd floor)
Opened: 2014
Address: 285 Fulton St, New York, NY 10007, United States
Access: by subway E Line (World Trade Center stop), A, C Lines (Chambers St. stop), R and W Lines (Cortland St. stop), 1 Line (WTC Cortlandt St.), 2, 3, 4 and 5 Lines (Fulton St. stop) – Subway map
Website: One World Observatory
Booking: Get Your Guide (Official ticketing partner)

Top of the Rock

Rockefeller Center – 260 meters

Located on the 70th floor of Rockefeller Center, Top of the Rock is one of New York’s oldest observation decks in the heart of bustling Midtown. The three-level indoor and outdoor observation decks offer spectacular panoramic views of the city. The view is unobstructed, so you don’t have to deal with glare or spots on the glass when taking photos.

Rockefeller Center, home of the Top of the Rock, is one of New York’s most beautiful buildings. An informative section in front of the terrace guides us through the fascinating history of the Art Deco complex, built during the Great Depression. For visitors who want a great view, this is one of the best choices.

Pros:

• Great views of Central Park, the Empire State Building and downtown Manhattan, one of the best photo locations.  
• The outdoor observation decks  offer spectacular panoramic view of the city.

Cons: 

• If you want to visit a modern skyscraper, don’t choose this one.
• Although there’s no bar on the observation deck, you’ll find bars and restaurants throughout Rockefeller Plaza.

Building height: 260 meters
Observation deck height: 260 meters (floors 67-69)
Opened: 1933 
Address: 30 Rockefeller Plaza, New York, NY 10112, United States
Access: subway B, D, F and M (Rockefeller Center stop) – Subway map
Website: Top of The Rock
Booking: Get Your Guide (Official ticketing partner)

Edge

Hudson Yards – 395 meters

If you’re looking for an adrenaline rush, the choice is clear. City Climb takes participants up the outside of the skyscraper to the top. To ensure safety, climbers wear special equipment as they make their way up a series of stairs. It is perhaps one of the most frightening and exciting activities in New York. Did you know? It’s the tallest outdoor building climb in the Western Hemisphere.

Of course, you don’t have to climb the side of the skyscraper to enjoy the beautiful views. The “sky deck” is special in that it is not located on top of the building, but extends out from the building’s facade. The unique construction gives you the feeling of floating in the air. The triangular glass panel is around 100 storeys high, making it the second highest open-air observation deck with a transparent floor in the world (the first is on Madeira Island).

Pros:

• It offers spectacular views of the Empire State Building and the George Washington Bridge from the highest observation deck.
• The City Climb is by far the most enticing activity on the observation deck.

Cons: 

• The view is nice, although it is a little further from the more exciting part of the city center.
• In bad weather, the indoor observation deck is not as great as the open one.

Building height: 395 meters
Observation deck height: 336 meters (100th floor)
Opened: 2020 
Address: 30 Hudson Yards, New York, NY 10001, United States
Access: by subway Line 7 (Hudson Yards stop) – Subway map
Website: Edge NYC
Booking: Get Your Guide 

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Why do I recommend Get Your Guide website or app? Because it offers free cancellation. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund!

SUMMIT One Vanderbilt

One Vanderbilt – 427 meters

Located at the top of Midtown’s tallest skyscraper, SUMMIT One Vanderbilt combines elements of art, technology, architecture and excitement, taking the concept of New York’s “observation deck” to a new level.

While the Edge is a breathtaking experience for adrenaline junkies, the three-level Summit is a dream for photographers, influencers and art lovers. It is undoubtedly one of New York’s most surreal landmarks, with a great view of the heart of Midtown.

Special installations, spectacular visual effects, glass platforms and an open viewing terrace await visitors.

Pros:

• Great views of the Chrysler Building (right next to it), the Empire State Building and the rest of Midtown.
• An exciting environment that will appeal to children and art lovers.

Cons: 

• Relatively new attraction, so it’s very crowded, almost impossible to get a good picture.
• The all-glass elevator on the side of the building is not included in the general admission, but it may not be worth the price of the 3-minute ride.

Building height: 427 meters
Observation deck height: 311 meters (floors 91-93)
Opened: 2021
Address: 45 E 42nd St, New York, NY 10017, United States
Access: subway lines 4, 5, 6 and 7 (Grand Central stop) – Subway map
Website: SUMMIT One Vanderbilt homepage
Booking: Get Your Guide 

Empire State Building

Empire State Building – 381 meters

The Empire State Building is a symbol of New York and was the tallest building in the US for 42 years.
Even after all these years, the terrace at the top of the Empire State Building is still one of the observation deck in the city, thanks to the panoramic views.

The skyscraper is at the heart of Manhattan, and the exterior, which is enclosed by a metal security fence, has no glass covering, making it a perfect place for photography. The trip to the top includes an exciting and entertaining film about the building’s history, its place in pop culture and its big-name visitors.

Pros:

• Great views of the Chrysler Building, Flatiron Building, Bryant Park and other downtown attractions.

Cons: 

• While the view from the 102nd floor is truly spectacular, most visitors only go up to the 86th floor (the Main Deck) because admission to the top floor is more expensive.
• The view is really spectacular, but the Empire State Building will not be in your pictures (because that’s where you’re staying).

Building height: 381 meters
Observation deck height: the observation decks are located on floors 86 and 102
Opened: 1931
Address: 20 W 34th St., New York, NY 10001, United States
Access: nearest metro stop: 34 St-Herald Sq – Subway map
Website: Empire State Building
Booking: Get Your Guide 

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Other viewpoints in New York

• The Statue of Liberty’s crown is very popular with tourists, but the long lines and narrow viewing area at the crown make it a poor choice. The view from the top of the Statue of Liberty is not that great, as it is quite far from Manhattan.
• Take a sightseeing helicopter ride! See the sights of the city in a specially designed helicopter that offers a 180-degree view of the city. Not cheap, but guaranteed to be an unforgettable experience – Book a helicopter tour
• Another option is to visit one of the city’s rooftop bars. The rooftop bars at 230 Fifth and Spyglass offer stunning views of the Empire State Building.
• There’s no feeling more exhilarating than relaxing in your own hotel room and admiring New York’s famous skyscrapers. Hotels in Manhattan are not cheap, but if you choose to stay in the centre, it’s worth booking a room with a view.

10 Unmissable Things to Do in New York City

Hotels with a view

The Cloud One New York-Downtown, by the Motel One Group****
Wingate by Wyndham New York Midtown South/5th Ave***
citizenM New York Bowery****
citizenM New York Times Square****
Arlo NoMad****

New York skyscrapers not only reach for the clouds but also serve as hubs of commerce, culture, and community life within the bustling metropolis.

Frequently asked questions and useful information

Which skyscraper offers the best view?

Each observation deck offers a different experience. The biggest difference is in the view from the buildings. For example, if you want to see the Empire State Building or Central Park, go to the Top of the Rock, but if you are interested in the panorama of Rockefeller Plaza, choose the Empire State Building. The One World Observatory in Lower Manhattan offers a superb view of the Statue of Liberty.

Which is the highest observation deck in New York?

One World Trade Center (or Freedom Tower) is the tallest man-made building in New York (541 meters). If you choose this observation deck, you can say that you have been to the tallest building in the Western Hemisphere. You can’t get any higher than this in the Big Apple. Given that it is located in lower Manhattan, it will not offer the same experience as the other buildings.

Which observation deck is open?

If it’s important to you to be able to take photos without any obstacles and without reflections from the glass, choose an open observation deck! For example, Top of the Rock, the Empire State Building, or The Edge.

Do city cards provide free admission to any of the observation decks?

Yes, you can visit several observation decks with the following city cards: New York City Pass, New York Pass or New York Explorer Pass

Which historic building should we choose? The Empire State Building or Top of the Rock?

If price is important to you, then Top of the Rock is definitely the right choice.
In terms of height, the Empire State Building’s observation deck is slightly higher than Top of the Rock, but that’s not the main difference. If you only have time for one and want the most iconic view of New York, go to Top of the Rock, because then you’ll have the Empire State Building in your photos. However, if you’d rather check the Empire State Building off your bucket list, then there’s no question which one to choose.

Want more than just breathtaking views?

Many New York skyscrapers offer various programs and attractions in addition to spectacular views. For example, the main attractions of The Edge are the City Climb and the transparent glass floor. SUMMIT One Vanderbilt is a dream come true for photographers and influencers, as it welcomes visitors with unique installations and spectacular visual effects.

Source: Wandering Lind
Photos: Wandering Linda
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