The Edge & Top of The Rock
Two of the most magical experiences in New York City are seeing Top of the Rock at sunset and The Edge NYC at night. Both of these New York City observation decks allow you to get a birds-eye view of the New York City skyline at night. Gazing down from the top of the world upon the 8.5 million New Yorkers below you is an experience you must not miss!
TOP OF THE ROCK
As far as New York City observation decks go, Top of the Rock(opens in a new tab) is pretty small. The highest floor is “only” 850 feet tall. That sounds impressive until you consider that the 102nd floor of the Empire State Building is 1250 feet, The Edge in New York is 1131 feet, and One World Observatory 1254 feet. But what Top of the Rock lacks in height, it certainly makes up for in charm.
Some describe the Top of the Rock experience as feeling like New York City is hugging you. Because you are lower, you can really see and appreciate the detail of our buildings and streets. You may even see a few socialites sipping cocktails on rooftop bars sparkling in the New York City skyline at night.
You will be hard-pressed to find a better view of Manhattan than that at Top of the Rock. Top of the Rock, like the Empire State Building, is located in the center of Manhattan. What it has that the Empire State Building does not is a direct view of…the Empire State Building. Visit Top of the Rock at sunset and you will find yourself face to face with the Empire State Building lighting up the New York City skyline at night.
Top of the Rock is located in Rockefeller Center and it’s the perfect way to cap off your evening after a Broadway show or visiting the MoMA Museum(opens in a new tab) (The Museum of Modern Art(opens in a new tab)).
THE EDGE
The Edge(opens in a new tab) in New York is the Big Apple’s new kid on the block. The Edge opened up in March of 2020, just a few days before the Covid-19 pandemic essentially shut down the whole country. Now that tourism is bouncing back, so is the Edge.
The Edge is super trendy and possibly the best observation deck NYC has to offer when it comes to taking photos! The Edge is surrounded by towering glass windows with no ceiling! This creates the feeling that you are flying in the sky! The Edge is the highest outdoor observation deck in the Western Hemisphere and to add to the thrill, the windows are slightly tilted. Lean forward on the glass and you feel like you are about to freefall! Brave visitors will enjoy walking on the glass floor and after a few intrepid steps onto this glass floor, you be staring 1131 feet down to the city below you!
The Edge NYC at night is a truly magical experience. Millions of city lights will twinkle and surround you. Up in the sky, a dome of stars will smile down at you. Inside the observation deck, you can visit the champagne bar and toast to your time in New York City. If you’re feeling decadent, have a bite at their restaurant, Peak(opens in a new tab). Tip: advance reservations are strongly recommended.
The Edge is located inside Hudson Yards, an upscale shopping mall. From The Edge, you can visit the famous Vessel(opens in a new tab) and The High Line(opens in a new tab).
BEST OBSERVATION DECK IN NYC
The best observatory in NYC will be different for everyone. If you’re looking for an educational experience, we suggest One World Observatory(opens in a new tab). One World Observatory features live tour guides walking around and answering questions while putting on shows and giving tours. If you want an iconic New York City experience, you can’t beat the Empire State Building(opens in a new tab). The Empire State Building is instantly recognizable thanks to its turn in movies ranging from King Kong to Sleepless in Seattle.
For stunning views of the Empire State Building and New York City skyline at night, visit Top of the Rock at sunset. For the trendy bunch that wants the newest hot experience, you can’t beat The Edge. The photos will make your social media feeds pop and the outdoor experience is thrilling. Check out our part 1 post(opens in a new tab) to get a more in-depth look and let us know which one you think is the best!
For the best New York City experience, make sure you book a tour with one of our local tour guides today!(opens in a new tab)