Best observation deck New York: Which NYC viewing platform is worth it?
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New York’s skyline is one of the most famous in the world and getting above it is a non-negotiable first visit experience. But with five NYC observation decks now competing for your time and money, working out which one is actually worth it isn’t straightforward.
When we visited New York for 10 days in late November with our three year old, we ended up visiting three of them. I’d already decided on Top of the Rock over the Empire State Building. The view of the Empire State from Top of the Rock is the one you see on every postcard and I wanted that rather than being on it. Summit One Vanderbilt caught my attention through Instagram and I knew immediately it would be something our daughter would love. The Edge came up repeatedly in conversation with people who’d been, so we added it on. Three decks, three very different experiences, and a clear favourite by the end.
This guide compares all five observation decks in New York. The three we visited personally and two we researched thoroughly, to help you work out which one is right for your trip.
Our quick verdict: Summit One Vanderbilt for the best overall experience and the best observation deck in NYC for kids. Top of the Rock for the most iconic views. Read on for the full breakdown.
If you’re still in the planning stages, our New York travel guide covers everything in one place. Visiting with young children? Our NYC with kids guide is worth a read before you book. For detailed head to head comparisons of specific decks, our New York observation deck comparison guide breaks each one down side by side.
If you’re planning to visit multiple attractions, it’s also worth looking at the Go City New York Pass, which includes several observation decks and can save a lot of money.
👉 Check the latest Go City New York Pass prices here
Our free editable itinerary planner will also help, it’s the same one I used to organise our trip in December! It’s a Google Sheets template you can customise to fit your own New York trip.
👇 Drop your email below and I’ll send it straight to you!
Observation deck comparison: Which viewing platform is best?
Before diving into each deck individually, here’s a quick comparison of the main observation towers in New York. Prices vary depending on time of day for most decks, with sunset slots being the most expensive.
Children under 5, and some 6 visit free at all five decks.
Every visitor ranks these differently depending on what they’re looking for, and you’ll find plenty of conflicting opinions online. Here’s our honest ranking based on visiting three of them personally with a three year old, and thoroughly researching the other two.
|
Observation deck |
Height |
Indoor/Outdoor |
Best time to visit |
Unique features |
Optional extras extras |
Go City included |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
Summit One Vanderbilt |
1,100ft |
Mostly indoor |
Sunset/night |
Mirror rooms, balloon room |
Ascent glass elevator reaches 1,120ft |
No |
|
Top of the Rock |
850ft |
Outdoor terraces |
Day/sunset |
The Beam, Skylift |
VIP experience, The Beam, Skylift |
Yes |
|
The Edge |
1,131ft |
Outdoor platform |
Sunset |
Glass door, angled deck |
Champagne experience, City Climb |
Yes |
|
Empire State Building |
1,250ft 102nd floor |
Indoor and outdoor |
Night |
Iconic landmark |
Premium and photo packages |
Yes |
|
One World Observatory |
1,268ft |
Indoor |
Day |
Tallest indoor deck |
VIP and dining packages |
No |
Prices vary depending on time of day for most observation decks, especially sunset tickets. The only exception is One World Observatory, which typically keeps consistent pricing.
The 5 best observation decks in New York ranked
If you’re short on time, here are the best observation decks in New York ranked based on views, experience and overall value.
Every visitor ranks these differently depending on what they’re looking for, and you’ll find plenty of conflicting opinions online. Here’s our honest ranking based on visiting three of them personally with a three year old, and thoroughly researching the other two.
1️⃣ Summit One Vanderbilt – Best overall observation deck in NYC
The most immersive viewing platform in New York, with mirror rooms, glass skyboxes and incredible skyline reflections. Our daughter’s absolute favourite and our top pick for families specifically, though it’s worth knowing experiences vary. Some visitors find it overwhelming, we loved every minute.
👉 Check Summit One Vanderbilt tickets on Viator
2️⃣ Top of the Rock – Best iconic skyline view
The classic New York viewpoint with a perfect view of the Empire State Building from the centre of Midtown. The only deck that gives you a direct view down onto the Rockefeller tree at Christmas, which for a December visit makes it one to prioritise.
👉 Check Top of the Rock tickets on Viator
3️⃣ The Edge – Best outdoor observation platform
The highest outdoor deck in New York with a thrilling glass floor and spectacular Hudson River views. Our least favourite of the three we visited personally, but the west facing views are unlike anything the other decks offer.
👉 Check The Edge tickets on Viator
4️⃣ Empire State Building – Most historic observatory
The most famous observation tower in NYC, built in just 11 months during the Great Depression and featuring in over 250 films. We didn’t go up on this trip but walked through the extraordinary Art Deco foyer before 9am, which is worth doing even if you don’t buy a ticket.
👉 Check Empire State Building tickets on Viator here
5️⃣ One World Observatory – Highest indoor observation deck
The tallest observation point in New York with sweeping harbour views and a location that gives you perspectives none of the Midtown decks can. The Statue of Liberty, Brooklyn Bridge and the whole of lower Manhattan. We didn’t visit on this trip but it’s on the list for next time.
👉 Check One World Observatory tickets on Viator here
What is the best observation deck in new York?
The best observation deck in NYC depends on what type of experience you’re looking for.
Best overall experience: Summit One Vanderbilt
Most iconic views: Top of the Rock
Highest outdoor platform: The Edge
Most famous building: Empire State Building
Highest indoor observation deck: One World Observatory
A couple of things worth knowing before you book any of them. All five use timed entry and so your ticket gives you a check in time, not the time you’ll actually reach the deck, so always allow extra time. Children under 5 visit free at all five decks.
Below is a full breakdown of each observation deck in New York, including our personal experience where relevant.
Summit One Vanderbilt
Why Summit is the most immersive observation experience in NYC.
📍 Location: Midtown Manhattan (next to Grand Central)
📏 Height: 1,100 ft (1,210ft via the Ascent glass elevator)
🏙️ Mostly indoor experience
🎫 Tickets: from ~$43 | Closed on Tuesdays
🚸 Children: Under 6 go free
Summit One Vanderbilt is the newest observation deck in New York and quickly became our favourite viewing platform in the city. Unlike traditional observatories, Summit is designed as an immersive experience with multiple themed floors. Part art installation, part observation deck, part experience you genuinely can’t compare to anything else.
Levels at Summit One Vanderbilt
Transcendence – mirror rooms reflecting the skyline across two floors
Levitation – glass skyboxes extending from the building, 1,063ft above Madison Avenue
Affinity – the famous silver balloon room
Unity – digital cloud room featuring your entrance photo projected into the clouds
Après Summit – café and bar area with indoor and outdoor terrace
Pros
✅ Most immersive observatory experience in NYC
✅ Incredible photo opportunities throughout
✅ Central Midtown location with views of Central Park, Chrysler Building and Empire State
✅ Mostly indoor which is great for winter visits
✅ Best observation deck in NYC for kids in our experience
Cons
❌ Not included in Go City
❌ Can be crowded during sunset slots
❌ Mostly indoors – no open air section until the terrace
❌ Some families find it overwhelming, experiences vary
❌ Closed on Tuesdays
Our experience
Summit One was both my favourite observation deck in New York and our daughter’s favourite, and for completely different reasons.
For her it was the balloon room, which she refused to leave. For me it was the views, and being right in the centre of Midtown means you get Central Park stretching north, the Chrysler Building almost at eye level, and the Empire State clearly visible. The windows are genuinely spotless, something I was worried about before we went.
A few practical things worth knowing. The experience is a one way system so make sure you’re done with each room before moving on. There’s a dark queue before you enter the main rooms, we think this is deliberate to make the first mirrored room hit harder, but our daughter got a little worried in there so worth knowing if you’re visiting with young children. Wear trousers rather than a skirt as the floors are mirrored throughout. On a sunny day bring sunglasses as it can be blinding. And one insider tip, the bathrooms apparently have some of the best views in the building.
Worth knowing that experiences vary. Some families find it overwhelming. Too bright, too busy in the balloon room. Ours loved every minute. It depends entirely on what your children respond to. For the full room by room breakdown of our visit, head to our 4 days in New York at Christmas itinerary.
If you’re choosing between the newer observation decks, read my full comparison of Summit One Vanderbilt vs The Edge.
Top of the Rock
Is Top of the Rock the most iconic viewing deck in New York
📍 Location: Rockefeller Center, 30 Rockefeller Plaza
📏 Height: 850 ft
🏙️ Outdoor terraces
🎫 Tickets: from ~$45 | Open daily 8am to midnight
🚸 Children: Under 5 go free
✅ Included in Go City
Top of the Rock is widely considered the best viewing deck in New York for classic skyline views. From here you can see the Empire State Building perfectly framed against Midtown Manhattan, the iconic shot you see on every postcard, which is something you simply cannot get from the Empire State Building itself. Being in the dead centre of Midtown also means Central Park stretches out clearly to the north, and on a clear day you can see as far as Connecticut.
Deck levels at Top of the Rock
67th floor – indoor viewing area with exhibits on the history of Rockefeller Center, plus The Weather Room Café & Bar
69th floor – outdoor terrace with frameless safety glass
70th floor – fully open air platform with no glass and no barriers, the most photography friendly deck in New York
Additional experiences
The Beam – recreation of the famous 1932 ‘Lunch Atop a Skyscraper’ photograph, where you’re strapped to a steel beam that rotates 180 degrees above the city. Costs extra and must be booked in advance, sunset sessions fill up weeks ahead.
Skylift – an open air rotating platform that rises 30 feet above the 70th floor for a 3.5 minute experience with 360 degree views. Costs $35 per person, purchased on the day rather than booked in advance. Can only be pre-booked as part of the VIP Pass.
VIP Pass – from $207, includes priority arrival, private guide, private Beam session, Skylift access, photo pass and champagne at The Weather Room. Worth it for special occasions.
Pros
✅ Most iconic skyline views in New York
✅ Only deck with a direct view of the Rockefeller Christmas tree from above
✅ Largest outdoor viewing area of any NYC observation deck
✅ Open air 70th floor, best for photography
✅ Included in Go City
✅ Open until midnight daily
Cons
❌ Lower height than newer decks
❌ Beam and sunset slots sell out and so book well in advance
❌ Temperature drops dramatically in the evening in winter
Our experience
Out of the three decks we visited, Top of the Rock felt the most iconic, and for a Christmas visit specifically it’s the one I’d prioritise, because it’s the only deck that gives you a direct view down onto the Rockefeller tree from above.
We did both The Beam and the Skylift. The Beam wins easily. Recreating that famous Lunch atop a Skyscraper photograph is considerably more satisfying than anything the Skylift produces, and the photo you get is a genuinely brilliant keepsake. The Skylift is interesting but the photos are actually better from the ground looking up at it than from being on it. Budget around £70 for the two if you’re planning to do both.
We bought the VIP pass which was worth every penny, not just for skipping the first outdoor queue but inside they told us to wave it like a golden ticket, and we skipped every single lift queue too. On a busy December day that’s a significant time saving.
We sat inside and had a drink while waiting for sunset, which was a lovely way to rest. One important warning – the temperature drops dramatically once the sun goes down. Even if it’s mild during the day, bring a proper coat, hat and gloves for the evening deck. We weren’t quite prepared and felt it.
Budget alternative: If you want similar views without the observation deck price, Bar SixtyFive sits on the 65th floor of the same building. It’s a paid cocktail bar and so drinks rather than a ticket, but there’s no observation deck admission fee. Open weeknights from 4:30pm and Sundays from 4pm. Smart casual dress code, collared shirts or jackets for men. Reservation recommended, particularly for sunset slots.
For the full detail of our Top of the Rock visit, head to our 4 days in New York at Christmas itinerary.
If you’re deciding between the Midtown observation decks, see my comparison of Top of the Rock vs Summit One Vanderbilt.
The Edge
The highest outdoor sky deck in New York
📍 Location: Hudson Yards, 30 Hudson Yards
📏 Height: 1,131 ft
🏙️ Outdoor sky deck
🎫 Tickets: from ~$39 | Open 9am to 10pm
🚸 Children: Under 5 go free, and under 16 must be accompanied by an adult
The Edge is currently the highest outdoor observation deck in the Western Hemisphere. The viewing platform extends dramatically out of the building on a cantilevered triangular deck, with angled glass walls and a glass floor, putting you genuinely outside at 1,131ft with the city spread out below you in every direction.
Features:
> Glass floor panels – look straight down 100 floors to the streets below
> Angled glass walls leaning outward – lean into the skyline for dramatic photos
> Triangular outdoor platform jutting 80 feet beyond the building’s edge
> Champagne bar on the deck
> Peak Restaurant on Level 101 – full fine dining with floor to ceiling skyline views
City Climb
For the genuinely adventurous, City Climb takes you beyond the sky deck onto the exterior crown of 30 Hudson Yards via a guided, harnessed group ascent to approximately 1,271ft – the highest open-air point available to visitors anywhere in the Western Hemisphere. You lean out over Manhattan hands free at the apex. Costs around $185-205 and takes 90-120 minutes. Booked separately from the standard deck ticket.
Pros
✅ Highest outdoor observation deck in the Western Hemisphere
✅ Spectacular Hudson River and west-facing views
✅ Dramatic architecture – genuinely unlike any other deck
✅ Included in Go City
✅ City Climb for thrill seekers
Cons
❌ Can be very windy – dress accordingly
❌ Smallest of the five decks – can feel crowded
❌ Less immersive than Summit One
❌ Views are west facing – less central Manhattan than Top of the Rock or Summit
Our experience
The Edge was our least favourite of the three we visited, though the Hudson River views are genuinely unlike anything the other decks offer, if that’s specifically what you want to see, this is your deck.
The glass floor is the talking point, and our daughter planted herself on it with no fear, while I barely put my big toe over it. The wind up there is something else in winter, go prepared with a proper coat, hat and gloves, it was noticeably colder and windier than Top of the Rock. The deck itself is also the smallest of the five, which means it can feel crowded quickly and views can get blocked.
One practical note – the indoor space is currently undergoing renovation with a new experience launching June 2026, so if you’re visiting before then expect some temporary restrictions. For the full detail of our Edge visit, head to our 4 days in New York at Christmas itinerary.
If you’re choosing between classic skyline views and a more thrilling experience, see my full comparison of Top of the Rock vs The Edge.
Empire State Building
The most famous observation tower in New York
📍 Location: Midtown Manhattan, entrance on 34th Street
📏 Height: 1,050ft (86th floor) | 1,250ft (102nd floor)
🏙️ Indoor and outdoor decks
🎫 Tickets: from ~$44 (86th floor) | from ~$79 (both floors)
🚸 Children under 6 free
✅ Included in Go City
The Empire State Building is the most famous observatory experience in NYC and one of the most recognisable buildings on earth. Built in just 410 days during the Great Depression, completing ahead of schedule and under budget, it held the record as the world’s tallest building for 40 years until the World Trade Center was completed in 1970. It has its own zip code, has featured in over 250 films, and draws over 3.5 million visitors every year. There is nothing quite like standing at the base of it.
Two viewing levels are available:
86th floor – the classic Empire State Building experience. An open air deck that wraps around the entire building with 360 degree views of Manhattan. This is the deck from the films, the postcards and the cultural imagination. Wind and weather are real factors up here.
102nd floor – an enclosed observatory reached via a dedicated glass elevator from the 86th floor. Floor to ceiling glass panels, quieter and less crowded than the deck below. Requires a combo ticket. Worth adding on in cold or wet weather.
Pros
✅ Most iconic building in New York
✅ Both indoor and outdoor viewing options
✅ Open air 86th floor for photography
✅ Rich history and Art Deco interior worth seeing even without going up
✅ Included in Go City
✅ Interactive museum included with all tickets
Pros
❌ You cannot see the Empire State Building from the Empire State Building – the most iconic figure in the skyline is missing from all your photos
❌ Often the busiest deck – long queues particularly in the afternoon
❌ Higher price than some competitors for a comparable view
Our experience
We didn’t go up the Empire State Building on this trip. With three observation decks already booked and a packed itinerary, something had to give. But we did walk through the Art Deco foyer before 9am one morning while it was quiet, which is worth doing even if you’re not buying a ticket. At that hour you almost have it to yourself.
If you’re choosing between the Empire State and Top of the Rock and can only do one, we’d point you to Top of the Rock, the view of the Empire State from there is the iconic one. That said, the history, the building and the 86th floor experience make it genuinely worth visiting if you have time. It has appeared in over 250 films, was built in 410 days during the Great Depression, and has its own zip code. There is nothing quite like being inside it.
One World Observatory
The highest indoor observation deck in New York
📍 Location: One World Trade Center, Lower Manhattan
📏 Height: 1,268 ft (floors 100-102)
🏙️ Indoor observatory
🎫 Tickets: from ~$23 | Open daily 9am to 9pm
🚸 Children: Under 6 go free
✅ Included in Go City. Note – you cannot pre-book a time slot with the pass and may wait over an hour. Paying extra for immediate access is around $15-20 per person.
👉 Check One World Observatory ticket availability here
One World Observatory is the tallest observation deck in New York and sits at the top of the tallest building in the Western Hemisphere. The building’s height is deliberately significant, it measures 1,362 feet, the exact height of the original South Tower, and 1,776 feet including the spire, the year of American independence. Standing at the base of it, knowing what stood here before, is a powerful experience before you’ve even gone up.
The SkyPod elevator takes 47 seconds to reach the top, with a floor to ceiling LED time lapse showing 500 years of New York’s history on the way up. The observatory covers three floors with 360 degree floor to ceiling glass views, entirely indoors with no outdoor space.
The location downtown gives completely different views to the Midtown decks. The harbour, the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, the Brooklyn Bridge and the whole of Lower Manhattan all clearly visible. On a clear day visibility stretches up to 45 miles.
Worth checking for Groupon deals before booking, One World Observatory regularly offers discounts through there.
Pros
✅ Highest observation deck in New York
✅ Only deck with unobstructed harbour views including Statue of Liberty
✅ Historically significant location
✅ Fully climate controlled – ideal in bad weather
✅ Included in Go City
✅ SkyPod elevator experience worth seeing in itself
Cons
❌ Entirely indoors – no outdoor space
❌ Glass can be very reflective making photography difficult, particularly at night
❌ Downtown location means a separate journey from the Midtown decks
❌ Go City pass holders cannot pre-book – may face waits of over an hour
Our experience
We didn’t visit One World Observatory on this trip. Of the five decks it’s the one that comes up least in conversation and recommendations, so when time was tight it was the natural one to leave off. It’s firmly on the list for next time.
The elevator ride to the top is apparently the most impressive of any deck, we’ve heard it described as genuinely mind blowing and worth experiencing for that alone. The one downside consistently mentioned is that being entirely indoors limits photos significantly, particularly at night when the glass becomes very reflective.
Best observation deck in NYC for kids
Visiting with a three year old gave us a genuinely different perspective on these decks, and the ranking looks different when you’re thinking about keeping a young child engaged rather than just the views.
🥇 Summit One Vanderbilt
Our daughter’s clear favourite. The immersive rooms give children something to actually do rather than just look at views through glass. The balloon room kept her occupied far longer than any other part of any deck we visited. Worth knowing that experiences vary, as some families find it overwhelming and too busy. Ours loved every minute. Go in with realistic expectations and it’s the best observation deck in NYC for kids by some distance. Remember it’s closed on Tuesdays.
🥈 Top of the Rock
Spacious outdoor terraces give children room to move around, and the views of the Rockefeller tree at Christmas make this the most festive option for a December visit. The Beam Experience is genuinely exciting for older children. The temperature drops sharply in the evening so dress warmly.
🥉 The Edge
The glass floor is an instant hit with children who have no fear of heights, ours walked across it no problem. The wind can be strong so factor that in with young children. The deck is the smallest of the five which can feel crowded.
Empire State Building
Worth noting that the 86th floor outdoor deck can get very busy, which makes it more challenging with young children. The indoor 102nd floor is quieter and more manageable in cold weather.
One World Observatory
The interactive Sky Portal and City Pulse screens are specifically designed to engage children, and the SkyPod elevator with its LED time-lapse is a genuine highlight for young ones. The downtown location makes it a separate trip but worth considering as a family friendly option.
Practical notes for families:
> Children under 6 free at Summit One Vanderbilt, Top of the Rock and One World Observatory
> Children under 5 free at The Edge
> Children under 6 free at Empire State Building
> Summit One is closed on Tuesdays
> All five use timed entry and so book in advance
Best observation deck in NYC at night
New York after dark is a completely different experience to daytime. The city lights come on, the skyline transforms and the observation decks take on a different atmosphere entirely.
🥇 Summit One Vanderbilt
The mirrored rooms at night are genuinely extraordinary. The reflections of the city lights multiply across every surface in a way that daytime visits simply don’t replicate. The balloon room after dark is particularly atmospheric. Summit also stays open until 10pm daily which gives you plenty of flexibility.
🥈 Empire State Building
Open until midnight (and later in summer), making it the best option for a late night visit with minimal crowds. The Art Deco building itself is beautifully lit at night and the views from the open air 86th floor deck after dark are classic New York.
🥉 Top of the Rock
Open daily until midnight. The view of the Empire State Building lit up against the Midtown skyline is at its best after dark, and if you’re visiting at Christmas the Rockefeller tree below is lit from 5:30am to midnight. Go for sunset and stay for the city lights. One warning – the temperature drops dramatically once the sun goes down, so bring a proper coat.
One World Observatory
Worth mentioning that the entirely indoor setting makes night visits tricky for photography since the glass becomes very reflective after dark. The views are still spectacular but photos are harder to get right than at the outdoor decks.
Best observation deck for photography
Each deck offers something completely different for photography, here’s how they compare.
Best skyline photography: Top of the Rock
The fully open air 70th floor with no glass means nothing between your lens and the city. The view of the Empire State Building perfectly framed against Midtown is the most iconic skyline shot available from any deck. Central Park stretches north, the Chrysler Building sits to the right. The only deck where you get genuinely unobstructed 360 degree shots.
Best immersive photos: Summit One Vanderbilt
The mirror rooms create photo opportunities unlike anything at the other decks, your reflection multiplied across every surface with the Manhattan skyline visible through floor to ceiling windows. The balloon room in particular produces some extraordinary shots. Worth bringing sunglasses on a sunny day as the reflections can be blinding. The windows are spotlessly clean which makes a real difference.
Best dramatic shots: The Edge
The glass floor, the angled walls leaning outward, the triangular platform jutting 80 feet from the building, all create dramatic angles you can’t replicate elsewhere. The west facing position gives you Hudson River shots that no other deck can offer. Wind can be strong so factor that in when shooting.
Best historical photos: Empire State Building
Walking through the Art Deco interior and the 86th floor deck puts you in the frame of over 250 films. The building itself is the most photographed in the world. Great for that classic New York shot even before you reach the deck.
Best harbour photography: One World Observatory
The only deck that gives you the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island and the Brooklyn Bridge all in the same view. The entirely indoor setting means reflections can be an issue particularly at night. Visit during the day for the clearest shots.
General photography tips for all decks:
> Book sunset slots well in advance – they sell out at all five decks
> Arrive slightly before your slot to allow time through security
> Bring sunglasses for Summit One on sunny days
> Wrap up for evening visits – the temperature drops significantly at outdoor decks
> Check the weather before you go – cloud cover affects views at all five
Which NYC observation deck is best for…
> Best observation deck for families: Summit One Vanderbilt – immersive rooms keep young children genuinely engaged. Closed Tuesdays.
> Best observation deck for classic NYC views: Top of the Rock – the Empire State Building and Central Park in one unobstructed frame from the open air 70th floor.
> Best observation deck for thrills: The Edge – glass floor, angled walls and City Climb for the genuinely adventurous.
> Best observation deck for sunset: Top of the Rock or Summit One Vanderbilt – both offer spectacular sunset views. Book well in advance as sunset slots sell out at all five decks.
> Best observation deck for history: Empire State Building – built in 410 days during the Great Depression, featured in over 250 films, and the most recognisable building in New York.
> Best observation deck for photography: Top of the Rock for skyline shots, Summit One for immersive photos, The Edge for dramatic angles.
> Best observation deck for Christmas visits: Top of the Rock – the only deck with a direct view down onto the Rockefeller tree.
> Best observation deck at night: Summit One Vanderbilt – the mirrored rooms after dark are extraordinary. Empire State Building for the latest closing time.
> Best observation deck on a budget: The Edge – from ~$39, included in Go City. Bar SixtyFive at Rockefeller Center is a paid cocktail bar alternative on the 65th floor with no observation deck admission fee.
> Best observation deck for harbour views: One World Observatory – the only deck where you can see the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island and Brooklyn Bridge in the same view.
> Best observation deck for a rainy day: Summit One Vanderbilt or One World Observatory – both mostly or entirely indoor.
Best free viewing points in New York
Not ready to spend $40-$80 on an observation deck ticket? These are the best free viewpoints in the city. Some are genuinely as good as the paid options for certain shots.
🪨 Pebble Beach, DUMBO
One of the most photographed spots in New York, the Manhattan Bridge framing the Empire State Building in the distance. Free, accessible any time, and particularly spectacular at sunrise before the crowds arrive. We came back here after Dyker Heights at night and got some of our best photos of the whole trip with the city lights reflected on the water.
🌉 Brooklyn Bridge
Walking across gives you incredible views of Lower Manhattan in one direction and Brooklyn in the other. Go at sunrise for the best light and fewest people. Takes around 20 minutes to walk across and costs nothing.
🚲 Brooklyn Heights Promenade
A dedicated waterfront walkway with unobstructed views of the Lower Manhattan skyline across the East River. One of the best free viewpoints in New York and consistently overlooked by first time visitors.
🚢 Staten Island Ferry
Completely free and runs 24 hours a day. You pass the Statue of Liberty on the way and get the Manhattan skyline from the water. Be wary of people near Battery Park selling ‘tickets’ when the ferry is free.
🪨 Umpire Rock, Central Park
A large natural rock outcrop near the West 62nd Street entrance to Central Park that gives you elevated views over the park and Midtown skyline for free. Considerably less effort than an observation deck and a genuinely lovely spot.
🚡 Roosevelt Island Tram
Not quite free. It costs a standard subway fare of $2.90 each way via OMNY, but the aerial cable car ride across the East River gives you elevated views of the Midtown skyline and the river below. A well known low cost alternative that most first time visitors miss entirely.
🌿 The High Line
An elevated public park built on a disused freight rail line running from Chelsea to Hudson Yards. Free to walk, open daily, and gives you a genuinely different elevated perspective on the West Side and Hudson River. Worth combining with a visit to The Edge or Chelsea Market.
🍸 Bar SixtyFive and other rooftop bars
Bar SixtyFive sits on the 65th floor of 30 Rockefeller Plaza, a paid cocktail bar with no observation deck admission fee. Views of the Empire State Building, Chrysler Building and Central Park. Open weeknights from 4:30pm and Sundays from 4pm. Smart casual – collared shirts or jackets for men. Reservation recommended.
The Standard Hotel rooftop in the Meatpacking District is another option along similar lines, with good views of the Hudson River and West Village skyline, paid cocktails but no entry fee.
Both are worth knowing about if you want elevated views without the full observation deck price.
👉 For more ways to save money, see our New York on a budget guide
Which observation deck should you choose?
Choose Summit One Vanderbilt if:
You want the most immersive experience
You’re travelling with kids
You want the best photos
You’re visiting in winter – mostly indoor
Choose Top of the Rock if:
You want classic iconic skyline views
You want to see the Empire State Building perfectly framed
You’re visiting at Christmas – the only deck with a view of the Rockefeller tree from above
You want outdoor terraces
Choose The Edge if:
You want the highest outdoor deck
You enjoy thrill experiences
You specifically want Hudson River and west facing views
You want to do City Climb
Choose Empire State Building if:
History and iconic status matter most to you You want the most famous building in the world You want both indoor and outdoor viewing options
Choose One World Observatory if:
You want the highest deck in New York
Harbour views including the Statue of Liberty are a priority
You’re visiting in bad weather – fully climate controlled
Still deciding which observation deck to visit?
If you’re comparing specific decks, these guides may help:
👉 Top of the Rock vs The Edge
👉 Summit One Vanderbilt vs The Edge
👉 Top of the Rock vs Summit One Vanderbilt
Final verdict: Best observation deck in New York
If you only visit one observation deck in New York, our recommendation is Summit One Vanderbilt. It offers the most immersive experience of any deck in the city, the photo opportunities are unlike anything at the other four, and it was the clear highlight for our family, particularly for our three year old. Just go on a weekday that isn’t Tuesday, wear trousers rather than a skirt, and bring sunglasses on a sunny day.
If classic views are what you’re after rather than an immersive experience, Top of the Rock is the one. The open air 70th floor with the Empire State Building perfectly framed is the most iconic skyline shot in New York. And if you’re visiting at Christmas specifically, it’s the only deck with a direct view down onto the Rockefeller tree, which for us made it the essential December visit.
The Edge is worth doing if Hudson River views are a priority, or if you want the glass floor experience. We visited all three and it was our least favourite, but the west facing views are genuinely different to anything the other decks offer.
For a full account of how we visited all three in one trip, head to our 4 days in New York at Christmas itinerary. And if you’re visiting in December, don’t miss our guide to the Dyker Heights Christmas lights, one of the most extraordinary Christmas experiences in the city.
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