The Six Best 360-Degree Observation Decks in New York City

Any view of New York is wonderful in itself, but perhaps the observation decks offer the most breathtaking experience. SecretNYC tells about the best places to get a 360° view of New York City.

New observation decks and observatories offer unforgettable views of the New York City skyline.

1. One World Trade Observatory, Lower Manhattan

• Opening hours: Monday - Sunday, from 9:00 to 21:00.
• Price: $ 44.
• Height: 386 meters.
• Area: Financial District.
• bonus: SkyPod elevators, Global Welcome Center, Horizon Grid, See Forever® Theater, ONE Dine.
• Nearby attractions: 9/11 Memorial & Museum, Ellis Island, Wall Street, Brookfield Place.
• Билеты: you can buy here.
• Address: 117 West St.

One World Observatory offers a unique view of the center cities, including Brooklyn and the East River, as well as the chance to stand on top of an iconic building: One World Trade Center (or Freedom Tower). This observation deck is entirely indoors with floor-to-ceiling windows, making it ideal for any time of year. This location is the highest point in the city. It is also the tallest building in the Western Hemisphere.

Before heading to One World Observatory, be sure to book your tickets in advance to avoid waiting in line. Get an all-inclusive ticket that includes stunning views, priority entry, access to the One World Explorer (their digital guide), flexible hours, and $15 to spend on shopping, drinks, or food at OWO. It’s also recommended to book a spot at ONE Dine, the rooftop restaurant. It’s perfect for a date or special occasion.

2. EDGE, Hudson Yards

• Opening hours: Monday - Sunday, from 8:00 to 23:00.
• Price: $40+.
• Height: 344 meters.
• Area: Hudson Yards
• bonus: City Climb Experience, SHADES installation, Fitness in the Sky.
• Nearby attractions: The Vessel, The Shed, The High Line, Empire State Building, Madison Square Garden.
• Билеты: you can buy here.
• Address: 30 Hudson Yards, West Side.

The highest outdoor observation deck in the Western Hemisphere is located at EDGE in Hudson Yards. The 344-foot-tall wonder juts out from the building by about 24 feet. The deck is surrounded by a 2,7-foot-tall glass wall.

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In the same Hudson Yards building is the Peak restaurant. It is technically higher than EDGE, so views could be even better! The spacious bar overlooks the city. It's especially beautiful at sunset and when the buildings are lit up at night. And don't forget: after 22:30 p.m. the place turns into a bar with live DJs!

Be sure to bring a windbreaker, as the EDGE observation deck is located near the wind-swept Hudson River on the west side.

3. Empire State Building Observation Deck, Midtown

• Opening hours: Monday – Sunday, 10:00 – 23:00.
• Price: $44+.
• Height: 381 meters.
• Area: Midtown.
• bonus: several observation decks (86th main floor, 102nd top floor), historical exhibitions, museum.
• Nearby attractions: Rockefeller Center, Madison Square Garden, Bryant Park, Top of the Strand.
• Билеты: you can buy here.
• Address:: 20 W 34th St.

The Empire State Building opened in 1931 and was at one point the tallest building in the world. Head to the iconic 86th floor observation deck, where many movies and TV shows have been filmed.

Spend extra time during your visit to the Empire State Building to view the exhibits and installations that tell the story of the famous building.

4. SUMMIT One Vanderbilt, Grand Central

• Opening hours: Monday - Sunday (closed Tuesdays), 9:00am - 12:00pm.
• Price: $43+.
• Height: 427 meters.
• Area: Midtown.
• bonus: Ascent (glass bottom elevator), immersive art installations
• Nearest attractions: Grand Central Terminal, Grand Central Market, New York Public Library, Chrysler Building.
• Билеты: you can buy here.
• Address: 45 E 42nd St.

SUMMIT is New York City's newest observatory. It boasts many unique features and stunning views. It features Levitation Skyboxes, which are completely transparent and glass. They allow you to "step out" into the city. The Ascent elevators, which are all glass, will take you 110 meters up the side of the building.

If you are looking for something more than a traditional observation deck, this is the place to go. There are so many art installations that add to the experience. There are rooms filled with reflective surfaces, floating balls, and glass canopies that add to the viewing experience.

5. Top of the Rock Observation Deck, Midtown

• Opening hours: Monday - Sunday, from 8:00 to 12:00.
• Price: $34+.
• Height: 259 meters.
• Area: Midtown.
• bonus: The Beam.
• Nearby attractions: Rockefeller Center, St. Patrick's Cathedral, Bryant Park, The Museum of Modern Art.
• Билеты: you can buy here.
• Address: 30 Rockefeller Plaza.

Situated atop Rockefeller Center, this famous observatory spans three floors of both indoor and outdoor observation decks. Various terraces face east, west, north, and south, making it a true panoramic paradise. The Beam recently opened here.

It allows guests to recreate the famous 1932 photograph "Lunch atop a Skyscraper."

Combine your trip to Top of the Rock with a visit to Rockefeller Plaza below, where seasonal events are often held, including ice skating, the Rockefeller Christmas tree, sales, and more.

6. Statue of Liberty Crown

• Price: $25+.
• Height: 80 meters.
• Area: Downtown Manhattan.
• Nearby Attractions: Ellis Island.
• Билеты: you can buy here.
• Address: Liberty Island.

See the New York City skyline through the eyes of Lady Liberty. Here, visitors can climb to the top of one of the most famous statues in the world! You'll take a ferry to Liberty Island, then climb 162 steps to the top of the landmark. It's important to note that this walk is strenuous. There are no elevators at the Statue of Liberty.

The number of tickets per day is limited. Reservations are required. If you plan to visit this observation deck, be sure to book your tickets at least a month in advance.

Visiting the Statue of Liberty requires a ferry ride, and Statue City Cruises is the official ticket provider for the tours. Beware of unauthorized third-party ticket sellers and stick with Statue City Cruises. Also, be sure to wear comfortable shoes if you're heading to the observation deck.