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Published: 10 November 2025 | Updated: 21 August 2026
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Just so you know: This post contains affiliate links. If you click through and make a booking or purchase, I may earn a small commission, at no extra cost to you.

Top of the Rock and The Edge represent two completely different visions of what a New York observation deck can be.

Top of the Rock has been at the heart of Midtown since 1933. An Art Deco landmark at Rockefeller Center with open-air terraces, the most iconic Empire State Building view in the city, and a sense of history that newer decks simply don’t have. The Edge opened in 2020 at Hudson Yards. It went in the exact opposite direction. The highest outdoor sky deck in the Western Hemisphere, a triangular glass platform jutting 80 feet from the building, with a glass floor and angled walls designed for people who want to feel genuinely exposed at 1,131 feet.

We visited both in December 2024 during a ten day family trip with our three year old and my aunt, whose partner is a born and bred New Yorker and retired FDNY firefighter. Top of the Rock was the one that felt most like New York. The Empire State Building framed perfectly from the open air 70th floor, the Rockefeller Christmas tree below, the golden hour light over Midtown. The Edge was the one that made our hearts race. Our daughter ran across the glass floor with no fear while I barely put my big toe over it.

Both are worth visiting. This guide breaks down the honest differences to help you decide which one fits your trip.

For a full overview of all five NYC observation decks, head to our best observation deck New York guide. For other comparisons, see our Summit One Vanderbilt vs The Edge and Top of the Rock vs Summit One Vanderbilt guides.

More comparison guides

If you’re also considering The Edge, these guides cover those comparisons in detail too. For a full overview of all five NYC observation decks, read the best observation deck guide.

Top of the Rock vs Summit One Vanderbilt The Edge vs Summit One Vanderbilt Best observation deck New York

Check ticket prices

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Top of the Rock

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Skyscraper icon

The Edge

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Quick comparison table for Top of the Rock vs The Edge

Feature

Top of the Rock

The Edge

Location

Rockefeller Center, Midtown Manhattan

Hudson Yards, West Side Manhattan

Views

Empire State Building, Central Park, Midtown skyline

Downtown skyline, Hudson River, Statue of Liberty

Experience type

Classic open-air terraces on three levels

Outdoor glass floored sky deck

Best for

Classic views, photography, Christmas visits

Thrill-seekers, sunset views, Hudson River views

Child-friendly?

Yes – spacious outdoor terraces, safe railings

Yes, but outdoor heights and glass floor may unsettle some children

Tickets

From $45

From $39

Child tickets

From $36

From $35

Under 5

Free

Free (free ticket still required)

Sunset surcharge

+$12

Included in dynamic pricing

Go City

Included

Included

New York stamp

Doing more than one attraction?

The Edge is included with Go City, so it’s worth comparing the pass price if you’re planning several NYC attractions.

Check Go City passes
Top of the Rock selfie of auther Hayley and partner
The Edge quick comparison on a Polaroid frame
Jump to a section
  • Quick comparison table for Top of the Rock vs The Edge
  • Schedule and times
  • Prices
  • Tips worth knowing before you book
  • Location
  • How to get there:
  • Views and landmarks
  • Other features
  • Practical tips before you visit
  • Signature experiences
  • Facilities
  • Is it suitable for children?
  • Pros and cons
  • Is it worth doing both?
  • Planning a December visit?
  • Final tips
  • Final tips before you book
  • Ready to book?
  • Top of the Rock vs The Edge – FAQs
  • More New York related blog posts:

Schedule and times

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Top of the Rock

> Open daily from 8am to midnight – last entry at 11:10pm
> Dynamic pricing applies – sunset slots cost an additional $12 on top of the standard ticket price
> Unlike many other decks, Top of the Rock is NOT a one-way system – you can move freely between all three floors and revisit levels as many times as you like
> The Weather Room Cafรฉ and Bar on the 67th floor is open until midnight – a good place to have a drink while waiting for sunset or warming up after time on the outdoor deck
> Best time for views: late afternoon into sunset for warm golden light over the Empire State Building

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The Edge

> Open Monday to Thursday 10am to 10pm, Friday to Sunday 10am to 11pm
> Dynamic pricing applies – price changes by time of day, and sunset slots cost more than standard entry
> The indoor journey up to the deck was recently overhauled into a fully immersive, multi-sensory experience featuring seven new installations – Prism, Pulse, Skyrise, Reflections, Kaleidoscope, Crystal Cave, and Infinite City – included with standard admission.
> In winter, the deck is extremely cold and windy – dress accordingly with a proper coat, hat, and gloves
> Best time for views: sunset, when the Hudson River glows gold

Prices

Ticket type

Top of the Rock

The Edge

Adult (13+)

From $45

From $39

Child (6โ€“12)

From $36

From $35

Senior (62+)

From $40

–

Under 5

Free

Free (free ticket still required)

Sunset surcharge

+$12

Included in dynamic pricing

Go City

Included

Included

Premium options

The Beam (Beam Combo from $73), Skylift ($35), VIP Pass ($207+)

City Climb ($185-205), Flex pass ($64+), Express pass ($88+)

Tips worth knowing before you book

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Skylift and The Beam at Top of the Rock are both separate add-ons
Neither is included in general admission or the express pass.

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The Edge early bird discount
Book 14 or more days in advance and save up to 35% on standard tickets

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Both decks use dynamic pricing
Sunset and peak weekend slots cost more. Book in advance to lock in the best rate

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Top of the Rock sunset surcharge
$12 extra on top of standard ticket price.


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Go City is includes with both Top of the Rock and The Edge. If you’re visiting multiple attractions, Go City can help save. For more ways to save money on NYC attractions, see our NYC on a budget guide.

Location

Two incredible views, two very different neighbourhoods. Here’s where you’ll find each deck.

Map Manhattan showing The Edge and Top of the Rock
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Top of the Rock

๐Ÿ“ Top of the Rock is at 30 Rockefeller Plaza, right in the heart of Midtown. The location is hard to beat. Fifth Avenue shopping, Radio City Music Hall and St Patrick’s Cathedral are all within a few minutes’ walk. In December, the Rockefeller Christmas tree is directly below you, which makes Top of the Rock the essential December observation deck visit. It’s the only deck with a direct view down onto the tree from above. For a full Christmas itinerary showing how we fitted both decks into one trip, see our 4 days in New York at Christmas guide.

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The Edge

๐Ÿ“ The Edge is at 30 Hudson Yards on Manhattanโ€™s far West Side. A completely different part of the city from Top of the Rock. Hudson Yards itself is worth exploring as a destination: the Vessel sculpture, The High Line elevated park and Chelsea Market are all within easy walking distance. The area has a very different feel to Midtown – modern, open and considerably less crowded.

How to get there:

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TOP OF THE ROCK
Subway lines B, D, F and M to 47-50th Streets Rockefeller Center. Two minute walk.

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THE EDGE
Subway line 7 to 34th Street Hudson Yards. Five minute walk. The High Line entrance is a short walk away if you want to combine both.

Views and landmarks

Both observation decks offer unforgettable views, but each gives you a completely different perspective of New York.

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Top of the Rock

Best for classic New York skyline views

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Empire State Building perfectly framed – the most iconic skyline shot in New York. Top of the Rock sits directly north of the Empire State Building, which is why the framing is so symmetrical and clean

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Central Park stretching north – worth noting that the newer Billionaires’ Row skyscrapers have partially obscured this view in recent years, though it remains impressive

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Downtown skyline and One World Trade Center

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Hudson River and New Jersey in the distance

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The Rockefeller Christmas tree directly below in December – the only deck in New York that gives you this view

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The fully open-air 70th floor means no glass between you and the city – a genuine photography advantage over Summit One

Vew from Top of the Rock New York
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The Edge

Best for a wide skyline and sunset views

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Hudson River and New Jersey waterfront

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Downtown skyline and One World Trade Center

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Statue of Liberty in the distance

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Vessel sculpture directly below

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The west-facing position gives you views no other Midtown deck can offer, particularly spectacular at sunset when the Hudson River glows gold.

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The triangular platform jutting 80 feet from the building gives you genuinely unobstructed views in three directions simultaneously

View of Manhattan from The Edge

The key difference between Top of the Rock and The Edge

Top of the Rock gives you the classic postcard Midtown view. The Empire State Building is perfectly framed, Central Park stretching north. The Edge gives you something completely different. The Hudson River, the harbour, and a west-facing perspective that feels like a different city entirely. If you want the iconic New York shot, Top of the Rock. If you want the Hudson River at sunset, The Edge.

Other features

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Top of the Rock

The Beam Top of the Rock New York
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Swarovski Joie Chandelier – 14,000 crystals in 450 cascading strands rising three stories through the Grand Atrium lobby. Free to see on your way in and genuinely spectacular.

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Welcome Gallery – a newly reimagined entry experience with murals, projection-mapped models, interactive exhibits and a theatre show about Rockefeller Centre’s history. Included in all tickets.

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Three observation levels – 67th floor indoor with frameless glass, 69th floor outdoor with frameless safety glass, 70th floor fully open air with no glass at all.

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The Beam – a replica steel beam on the 69th floor that lifts you 12 feet into the air and rotates 180 degrees, recreating the famous 1932 Lunch Atop a Skyscraper photograph. Included in Beam Combo ticket from $73. Children must be at least 42 inches tall with an adult or 52 inches to ride alone. No phones, cameras or bags permitted on The Beam.

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Skylift – a rotating open air glass platform that rises 30 feet above the 70th floor for 360 degree unobstructed views. $35 add-on, available separately or as part of the VIP Pass.

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The Weather Room Cafรฉ and Bar – on the 67th floor, open daily until midnight. Named after the Doppler radar that sat on the 70th floor from 1960 to 1995. Artisanal sandwiches, cocktails, pastries and New York bagels. Terrace seating with Central Park views

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RockMoMA combo – bundles Top of the Rock with MoMA general admission from $63, saving 14% versus buying separately. Worth considering if you’re planning to visit MoMA on the same trip.

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The Edge

The Edge outdoor deck Manhattan New York
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Outdoor sky deck – the triangular platform juts 80 feet beyond the building facade at 1,131 feet. No glass between you and the open air.

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Glass floor – look straight down 100 floors to the streets below.

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Angled glass walls – lean outward over the city for dramatic photos.

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Skyline Seats – suspended seats facing outward over the city.

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Eastern Point – the furthest point of the deck, extending furthest from the building.

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Champagne Bar – drinks on the deck, available to all visitors.

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Seven immersive installations โ€“ Prism, Pulse, Skyrise, Reflections, Kaleidoscope, Crystal Cave, and Infinite City guide you from the Level 4 entrance up to the deck. Included with standard admission, not an add-on. Expect colour-changing light rooms, a 200-mirror kaleidoscope, and a cinematic 100-floor elevator ride before you even reach the view.

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City Climb – an optional upgrade where you climb the exterior crown of the building to approximately 1,271 feet via a guided, harnessed ascent. The highest open-air point available to visitors anywhere in the Western Hemisphere. Costs around $185-205, takes 90-120 minutes. Booked separately.

Practical tips before you visit

A few practical things to know that can make or break your experience.

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Top of the Rock

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Not a one way system – unlike Summit One you can move freely between all three floors and revisit levels as many times as you like. No time limit on your visit.

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The Beam restrictions – no phones, cameras, bags or loose items permitted on The Beam. All belongings go in cubbies next to it. Maximum weight 300lbs.

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Book The Beam in advance – walk-up upgrades are frequently unavailable, especially at sunset. Book the Beam Combo ticket online rather than hoping to add it on arrival.

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Skylift is weather dependent – the platform can close in high winds or adverse conditions.

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Free Wi-Fi throughout the observation deck.

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Strollers permitted – must be collapsible. Wheelchair accessible throughout except The Beam.

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The Edge

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No time limit – unlike Summit One, you can stay as long as you like once you’re up there.

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Free concessions – Edge ticket holders receive a free chocolate bar and brownie at Hudson Yards. Worth collecting on your way out.

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Fear of heights – The Edge is not recommended for anyone with a serious fear of heights. The outdoor deck, glass floor, and angled walls are genuinely exposed. Summit One is considerably more manageable for nervous visitors.

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Weather – the outdoor deck may close in extreme weather. The Sky Assurance weather guarantee gives you either 20% off at the bar on the day or a free rebook.

Signature experiences

Both decks offer a few fun add-ons that add to the whole experience, and theyโ€™re great for first time visitors looking for something memorable.

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Top of the Rock

The Beam – the most personal experience of any observation deck in New York. On the 69th floor, the exact floor where the original photograph was taken, you’re seated on a replica steel beam, lifted 12 feet into the air and rotated 180 degrees with the Manhattan skyline behind you. A professional photo is taken. The result is your own version of the most iconic construction photograph ever taken.

We had the express pass, which meant skipping the main entry queues. On a busy December day, it saved a significant amount of time, particularly for getting to and from the deck quickly. The Beam photo is a brilliant keepsake and worth having done once. Minimum height 42 inches with an adult. I actually found it to be quite a thrill too, as it tilts slightly and you literally feel like you’re floating in the air.

Skylift – an open-air rotating platform that rises 30 feet above the 70th floor for 360 degree panoramic views. Costs $35 as an add-on. No height restriction; children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Weather dependent. It’s worth knowing the floor is clear, so trousers or shorts are recommended. I did enjoy this, but if I am completely honest, I preferred The Beam.

Our honest take – The Beam is the one worth prioritising. The Skylift is interesting, but the photo opportunity from the ground looking up at it is arguably better than being on it. If budget is tight, do The Beam and skip the Skylift.

Top of the Rock inc Skylift and The Beam with Viator Top of the Rock inc The Beam only with Viator Top of the Rock inc Skylift only with Viator VIP Top of the Rock inc The Beam, Skylift, guided tour, plus skip the line with Viator
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The Edge

Glass floor – look straight down 100 floors to the streets below through the triangular glass platform. Our daughter planted herself on it immediately with no fear. I barely put my big toe over it. It’s one of those experiences where how you react tells you something about yourself.

City Climb – a guided harnessed ascent up the exterior crown of 30 Hudson Yards to approximately 1,271 feet – 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, takes 90-120 minutes. Booked separately from the standard deck ticket. It’s not something we did. Our three year old made that an easy decision, but it comes up consistently as one of the most extraordinary experiences in New York.

Champagne Bar – drinks available on the deck throughout your visit. A good way to mark the occasion, particularly at sunset.

Facilities

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Top of the Rock

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The Weather Room Cafรฉ and Bar – on the 67th floor, open daily from 9am to midnight. Named after the Doppler radar that sat on the 70th floor from 1960 to 1995. Artisanal sandwiches, mezze plates, cocktails, coffee and pastries. Terrace seating with Central Park views. Also hosts late night DJ events, so it’s worth checking the schedule if you’re visiting in the evening.

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Gift shop – located on the concourse level as you exit, not on the observation deck itself. Top of the Rock branded merchandise, NYC souvenirs and exclusive Rockefeller Center items.

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Restrooms – on the 66th floor, including baby changing facilities, which is useful if you’re visiting with young children.

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Free Wi-Fi throughout the observation deck.

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No outside food or drink permitted on the observation decks.

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No tripods permitted – personal photography and video allowed, commercial photography strictly prohibited.

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Wheelchair accessible throughout, except The Beam experience.

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The Edge

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Champagne Bar – drinks available on the deck itself, open to all visitors. Cocktails, champagne and non-alcoholic options.

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Gift shop – The Edge, branded merchandise, and New York souvenirs on Level 100.

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Indoor observation lounge – a warm up space on Level 100 with panoramic floor to ceiling windows before stepping outside.

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Free lockers – available for bags and belongings, unlike Summit One Wheelchair accessible throughout.

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Wheelchair accessible throughout.

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No outside food or drink is permitted beyond the entrance.

Is it suitable for children?

The Beam and Skylift Top of the Rock New York
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Top of the Rock

Yes, and one of the more relaxed observation deck experiences for families. The spacious outdoor terraces have high, secure railings throughout. There’s plenty of room to move around, and the not one-way system means you can revisit floors at your own pace rather than being pushed through. We didn’t take the pram, but saw other families with them. Strollers are permitted but must be collapsible.

For the add-on experiences:

The Beam – children must be at least 42 inches tall to ride with an adult, or 52 inches to ride alone. Not suitable for young toddlers. No phones, cameras or bags on the ride. Older children who are confident with heights would enjoy it. Ours was too young, and we wouldn’t have put her on it.

Skylift – no height restriction; children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. More suitable for older children and confident families. It’s worth knowing that the floor is clear, so trousers or shorts are recommended.

Hudson River view from The Edge New York
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The Edge

It’s suitable for children, but the experience depends entirely on how your child responds to heights. The glass floor is the talking point, and our daughter loved it. Children who are confident with heights will love it. Children who are nervous may find the fully outdoor exposed deck and angled walls genuinely unsettling.

Since June 2026, The Edge also has seven new immersive indoor installations on the way up, giving younger children more to engage with than before – though Top of the Rock’s spacious open-air terraces are still the easier, more relaxed option for very young children.

One practical note – the deck is extremely cold and windy in winter. Factor that in with young children and dress accordingly.

For a full guide to visiting New York with young children, head to our NYC with kids guide.

Pros and cons

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Top of the Rock

WHAT WE LOVED

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Best view of the Empire State Building from any deck – perfectly framed from the open air 70th floor

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The only deck with Central Park AND the Empire State Building visible in the same sweep

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Fully open air 70th floor – no glass between you and the city, best for photography

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Not a one way system – revisit all three floors as many times as you like

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No time limit on your visit

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Only deck with a direct view down onto the Rockefeller Christmas tree in December

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Included in Go City

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The Beam – the most iconic photo experience of any NYC observation deck

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The Weather Room Cafรฉ open until midnight

WHAT TO KNOW

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Lowest of the five observation decks at 850ft

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Billionaires’ Row has partially obscured the Central Park view in recent years

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The Beam and Skylift are separate add-ons – budget accordingly

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Dynamic pricing – sunset slots cost $12 more

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Can feel crowded particularly at weekends and sunset

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Cold and windy on the outdoor decks in winter – dress accordingly

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The Edge

WHAT WE LOVED

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Highest outdoor observation deck in the Western Hemisphere

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Spectacular Hudson River and west-facing views unavailable at any other Midtown deck

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Glass floor – a genuinely thrilling experience

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No time limit – stay as long as you like

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Included in Go City

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Free lockers available for bags

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Early bird discount – up to 35% off when booked 14+ days ahead

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Seven new immersive light and art installations are included with admission

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City Climb is available for the seriously adventurous

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Free chocolate bar and brownie with a ticket at Hudson Yards

WHAT TO KNOW

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Entirely outdoors – cold and very windy in winter

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Not recommended for anyone with a serious fear of heights

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Indoor space under renovation until June 2026

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Smallest deck of the five – can feel crowded

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Dynamic pricing – sunset slots cost significantly more

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Indoor space under renovation until June 2026

Is it worth doing both?

If your budget and time allow, yes. They offer genuinely different experiences that complement rather than duplicate each other. Top of the Rock gives you the classic Midtown experience. The Empire State Building perfectly framed, the open air photography, The Beam and the only December view of the Rockefeller tree from above. The Edge gives you something no other deck can. The Hudson River at sunset, the glass floor and the feeling of being fully exposed at 1,100 feet.

We did both during our ten day trip. Top of the Rock was the more iconic experience. It felt quintessentially New York. The Edge was the more thrilling one. It had the glass floor moment, the wind, the west-facing views. They’re different enough that doing both is genuinely worthwhile rather than repetitive.

If you have to pick just one:

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Choose Top of the Rock if…

> Classic Empire State Building shot
> Prefer open-air photography
> Visiting at Christmas for the Rockefeller tree view
> You’re on a budget and want to use your Go City Pass

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Choose The Edge if…

> You want outdoor thrills
> You want the glass floor experience
> You want spectacular Hudson River sunset views
> You want immersive light/art installations as well as the view
> You’re on a budget and want to use your Go City Pass

Still deciding?

Top of the Rock vs Summit One Vanderbilt โ†’
The Edge vs Summit One Vanderbilt โ†’
Best observation deck New York โ†’

Planning a December visit?

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Both decks are worth visiting in December, but they offer very different experiences in winter conditions.

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Top of the Rock

Skylift Top of the Rock New York

Top of the Rock in December is the essential Christmas visit. It’s the only observation deck in New York with a direct view down onto the Rockefeller Christmas tree, and standing on the 70th floor looking down at the tree lit up below, with the Midtown skyline stretching in every direction, is one of those genuinely special New York moments. The tree is lit from mid-November through to early January. Go at sunset and stay for the city lights, but bring a proper coat, hat and gloves because the temperature drops sharply once the sun goes down on the open air deck.

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The Edge

Hudson Yards Christmas lights New York

The Edge in December is a different proposition entirely. The outdoor deck is fully exposed to the elements, and in winter, the wind up there is significant, so go prepared with a proper coat, hat, and gloves. That said, a clear winter day gives you exceptional visibility, and the Hudson River in the cold light of December has its own atmosphere.

It’s worth knowing for December

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Top of the Rock is the only deck with a direct view down onto the Rockefeller Christmas tree. It’s worth factoring in if that’s a priority.

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Top of the Rock’s open air deck is considerably colder in December than The Edge’s indoor lounge, but The Edge’s outdoor platform is more exposed to wind.

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Both decks get significantly busier around Thanksgiving and Christmas week – book well in advance.

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Sunset comes early in December, around 4:30pm, which means sunset slots fill up quickly.

Dyker Heights Brooklyn on a polaroid frame

Make a day of it

If you’re building a full December day around an observation deck visit, pair it with a trip to Dyker Heights Christmas lights in Brooklyn, one of the most extraordinary free experiences in New York in December. And if you’re planning a longer Christmas trip, our 4 days in New York at Christmas itinerary shows exactly how we fitted both decks into a full festive trip.

Final tips

> Book in advance – both decks sell out regularly, particularly at sunset and on weekends. The Edge early bird discount saves up to 35% when booked 14 or more days ahead. Top of the Rock’s Beam sessions fill up days or weeks ahead – book the Beam Combo online rather than hoping to add it on arrival.

> Go on a clear day – both decks are weather dependent. Check the forecast before you go. The Edge has a Sky Assurance weather guarantee if the outdoor deck closes. Top of the Rock’s open air 70th floor is also affected by cloud cover and rain.

> Dress for the weather – both decks have fully outdoor elements. In winter particularly, the temperature on the open air decks drops significantly. Proper coat, hat and gloves are essential for both – The Edge is the more exposed of the two.

> Combine with the neighbourhood – Top of the Rock is steps from Fifth Avenue, Radio City Music Hall and the Rockefeller Christmas tree. The Edge is a short walk from The High Line, Chelsea Market and The Vessel. Neither needs to be a standalone visit.

> The Beam at Top of the Rock – book as part of the Beam Combo from $73. Walk-up upgrades are frequently unavailable, especially at sunset.

> The Edge free concessions – collect your free chocolate bar and brownie at Hudson Yards on the way out. Easy to forget but worth knowing about.

๐Ÿ‘‰ Check Top of the Rock tickets on Viator
๐Ÿ‘‰ Check The Edge tickets on Viator
๐Ÿ‘‰ Or save with a Go City Pass

Final tips before you book

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Book in advance
Both decks sell out regularly, particularly at sunset and on weekends. The Edge early bird discount saves up to 35% when booked 14 or more days ahead. Top of the Rock’s Beam sessions fill up days or weeks ahead – book the Beam Combo online rather than hoping to add it on arrival.

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Go on a clear day
Both decks are weather dependent. Check the forecast before you go. The Edge has a Sky Assurance weather guarantee if the outdoor deck closes. Top of the Rock’s open-air 70th floor is also affected by cloud cover and rain.

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The Beam at Top of the Rock
Book as part of the Beam Combo from $73 rather than hoping to add it on arrival. Walk-up upgrades are frequently unavailable, especially at sunset.

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Combine with the neighbourhood
Top of the Rock is steps from Fifth Avenue, Radio City Music Hall, and the Rockefeller Christmas tree. The Edge is a short walk from The High Line, Chelsea Market, and The Vessel. Neither needs to be a standalone visit.

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The Edge free concessions
Collect your free chocolate bar and brownie at Hudson Yards on the way out. Easy to forget but worth knowing about.

Ready to book?

Top of the Rock

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Use a sightseeing pass?

Check Go City options โ†’

Includes both Top of the Rock and The Edge + other top attractions

The Edge

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Still planning the rest of your trip?

Head over to our New York Travel Guide for all of our guides, itineraries, and local tips to help you plan an unforgettable trip.

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Top of the Rock vs The Edge – FAQs

It depends on what you’re looking for. Top of the Rock is the classic New York experience – the Empire State Building perfectly framed from the open air 70th floor, a heritage Art Deco building with history on every level, and the only deck with a direct view of the Rockefeller Christmas tree in December. The Edge is the modern thrill experience – the highest outdoor sky deck in the Western Hemisphere, a glass floor that looks straight down 100 floors, and west-facing Hudson River views that no other Midtown deck can match. We visited both and Top of the Rock felt more quintessentially New York. The Edge felt more genuinely thrilling. For a full breakdown of all five NYC observation decks, head to our best observation deck New York guide.

Yes – particularly if Hudson River views and outdoor thrills are what you’re after. The glass floor is a genuinely memorable experience and the west-facing sunset views over the Hudson are spectacular. The early bird discount of up to 35% when booked 14 or more days ahead makes it considerably better value than buying on the day. It’s included in Go City which can make it effectively free if you’re using a pass for multiple attractions. See our NYC on a budget guide for more on passes and saving money on NYC attractions.

Absolutely. It remains one of the best observation deck experiences in New York despite newer competitors. The open air 70th floor with no glass between you and the city is genuinely rare, and the Empire State Building view from here is the most iconic skyline shot available from any deck. The addition of The Beam and Skylift in recent years has added further reasons to visit. At $45 for general admission it’s competitively priced and included in Go City.

Different views rather than better or worse. Top of the Rock faces east and north – the Empire State Building perfectly framed, Central Park stretching north, the classic Midtown skyline. The Edge faces west – the Hudson River, the New Jersey waterfront, the Statue of Liberty in the distance and spectacular sunsets over the water. If you want the classic New York postcard shot, Top of the Rock. If you want the Hudson River at golden hour, The Edge. For a full comparison of views across all five decks, see our New York observation decks hub.

Both are excellent at sunset but for different reasons. The Edge faces west which means the Hudson River glows gold as the sun goes down – a genuinely extraordinary view that Top of the Rock cannot match for pure sunset drama. Top of the Rock at sunset gives you warm golden light over the Empire State Building and Midtown skyline – the more classic and recognisable shot. Both add a sunset surcharge – $12 at Top of the Rock, included in dynamic pricing at The Edge – and both sell out quickly. Book well in advance for either.

No – The Edge is not recommended for anyone with a serious fear of heights. The entirely outdoor deck, the glass floor looking straight down 100 floors, and the angled walls leaning outward are genuinely exposed in a way that most other decks aren’t. Top of the Rock is considerably more manageable for nervous visitors โ€” the open air 70th floor has solid railings and feels considerably less exposed than The Edge. If heights are a concern, Top of the Rock is the better choice of the two. For a fully indoor option, Summit One Vanderbilt is the most manageable for nervous visitors โ€” see our Summit One vs The Edge guide for more detail.

Top of the Rock for most families – spacious outdoor terraces, high secure railings, strollers permitted and a more relaxed atmosphere. The Edge is suitable for families with older confident children but the glass floor and fully exposed outdoor deck can unsettle younger children. Neither has the immersive family friendly experience of Summit One Vanderbilt – if you’re visiting with young children, see our Top of the Rock vs Summit One guide for a comparison that specifically addresses the family angle. For more on visiting New York with young children, see our NYC with kids guide.

Yes if your budget allows – they offer genuinely different experiences that complement rather than duplicate each other. Top of the Rock gives you the classic Midtown heritage experience and the Empire State Building view. The Edge gives you the outdoor thrill and the Hudson River sunset. Doing both means you’ve seen New York from two completely different perspectives – east-facing classic Midtown and west-facing modern Hudson Yards. Both are included in Go City which makes combining them considerably more affordable.

Top of the Rock starts from $45 for adults with a $12 sunset surcharge. The Edge starts from $39 with an early bird discount of up to 35% when booked 14 or more days ahead. Both are included in Go City. The Beam at Top of the Rock requires the Beam Combo from $73 – it’s not included in general admission. City Climb at The Edge costs $185-205 and is booked separately. For a full price comparison of all five NYC observation decks, see our best observation deck New York guide.

City Climb is a guided harnessed ascent up the exterior crown of 30 Hudson Yards to approximately 1,271 feet – the highest open air point available to visitors anywhere in the Western Hemisphere. You climb the outside of the building in a small group with a guide, culminating in a moment where you lean out over Manhattan hands-free at the apex. It costs around $185-205 per person and takes 90-120 minutes. It’s booked separately from the standard Edge deck ticket and is completely optional. We didn’t do it – our three year old made that an easy decision – but it comes up consistently as one of the most extraordinary experiences in New York for those with a head for heights.


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I'm Hayley, mum of two, based in Liverpool, and the voice behind Tiny Toes Big Trails.

I commute to London fortnightly for work, so I know it like a local. And some of our best guides come from deeper trips, like ten days in New York guided by a retired FDNY firefighter, and Gozo, where family ties show us the side most visitors never see.

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