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Touching the Sky: The Best Observation Decks in New York
New York’s skyline is famous around the world. Its energy and style make it instantly recognisable. The city’s towers have inspired movies, postcards, and travel dreams for years. But there’s more to New York than just tall buildings. When you visit an observation deck in New York, you get to see the city’s history, creativity, and innovation from a new perspective.
The Empire State Building has a classic charm. Edge NYC lets you walk on glass floors high above the city. SUMMIT One Vanderbilt mixes art with modern design. One World Observatory gives you wide views of Lower Manhattan. Top of the Rock is perfect for seeing Central Park. Each New York observation deck lets you experience the city’s energy from above. This guide will help you choose the best observation deck, plan your visit, take great photos, and book your tickets easily with MakeMyTrip.
List of the Most Popular New York Observation Decks
With so many famous viewpoints, choosing where to start can be tough. To help, here’s a quick comparison of the five most popular observation decks in New York. The table shows their locations, top features, and what makes each one special, so you can find the best fit for your trip.
| Name of Observation Deck | Location | How to Reach | Opening Hours & Best Time to Visit | Unique Experiences | Ticket & Pricing | Amenities |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Empire State Building | 20 West 34th Street, New York, NY 10118. Offers sweeping views of Central Park, Statue of Liberty and Brooklyn Bridge. | Metro: 34th Street - Herald Square (B, D, F, M, N, Q, R, W) | 10:00 AM - 11:30 PM (last entry 10:45 PM). Sunset offers golden skies while mornings are quieter. | 86th-floor open-air deck and 102nd-floor enclosed gallery. Historic Art Deco interiors and engaging exhibits. | From INR 4,200 onwards. | Gift shops, exhibitions, wheelchair access, and dining options. |
| Top of the Rock | 30 Rockefeller Plaza, New York, NY 10112. Provides iconic angles of the Empire State Building and Central Park. | Metro: 47-50 Streets Rockefeller Center (B, D, F, M) | 08:00 AM - 12:00 AM (last entry 11:10 PM). Sunset ideal for dramatic photos. | Outdoor decks on floors 67-70. Unique Skylift ride for elevated glass viewing. | From INR 5,200 onwards. | Lounge, gift shop, accessible facilities. |
| SUMMIT One Vanderbilt | 45 East 42nd Street, New York, NY 10017. Enjoy panoramic Midtown views including Chrysler Building and Empire State Building. | Direct access via Grand Central Terminal. | 09:00 AM - 10:30 PM (closed Tuesdays). Evenings are especially scenic with city lights. | Immersive mirrored rooms, glass skyboxes, external glass elevator. A blend of art and thrill. | From INR 4,200 onwards. | Apres cafe and cocktail bar, interactive art spaces. |
| One World Observatory | One World Trade Center, 117 West Street, New York, NY 10007. Views span Statue of Liberty, Brooklyn, and beyond. | Metro: Fulton Street (A, C, J, Z, 2, 3, 4, 5). | 09:00 AM - 09:00 PM. Mornings are calmer while evenings showcase a glowing skyline. | Sky Pod lift reaching 102nd floor in 47 seconds. Glass Sky Portal adds immersive drama. | From INR 2,700 onwards. | Restaurant, cafe, shop, accessibility features. |
| Edge NYC | 30 Hudson Yards, New York, NY 10001. Open-air deck with views of the Hudson River and Midtown. | Metro: 34th Street - Hudson Yards (7). | 10:00 AM - 09:00 PM (last entry 08:10 PM). Sunset and night visits are especially striking. | Glass-floored platform on the 100th floor, angled glass walls, outdoor terrace. Thrilling city perspective. | From INR 3,400 onwards. | Bar, heated outdoor deck, gift shop. |
Top Tips for Visiting Observation Deck New York
Book Online in Advance
Save time by booking your tickets online before you go. With MakeMyTrip, you can easily reserve your spot, purchase tickets in INR, and get quick confirmation. This way, you spend less time on logistics and more time enjoying your visit.
Check the Weather
A clear day makes your visit much more memorable, but fog or rain can spoil the view. Check the weather forecast before booking. Some decks let you reschedule if the weather is bad, so you won’t lose your money.
Choose Combination Passes
If you want to see more than one attraction, look for combo tickets. MakeMyTrip offers packages that cover several top spots, so you can save money and make your sightseeing easier.
Photograph at Golden Hour
For the best photos, visit at sunrise or sunset when the light is especially beautiful. If you plan to bring professional camera gear, check the rules first since some places don’t allow tripods or big equipment.
Look for Unique Experiences
Every deck offers experiences that set it apart. From SUMMIT’s mirrored rooms to Edge’s glass floor and Empire State’s historic aura, choosing based on these highlights ensures your visit matches your personality and travel goals.
Visit During Quieter Hours
If you are someone who loves peace and quiet, plan visits during weekday mornings or late evenings because the crowds are minimal at these hours. Avoid peak sunset slots if you want space to walk without struggling to get the views.
Accessibility Considerations
New York’s decks are made for all visitors, including those with strollers or mobility challenges. Several offer lifts, ramps, and even AR apps for richer experiences. Always check accessibility features when planning with children or elderly travellers.
Expect Additional Costs
Premium experiences come at an extra charge. For things like Ascent, SUMMIT’s all-glass elevator or VIP skip-the-line tickets, you need to have extra budget. This would help avoid surprises enjoy add-ons that can enrich your visit further.
Explore Dining Options
New York observation decks are not just platforms to view the city from above. A lot of these have options for a meal or drinks so you can have the full experience. SUMMIT has Apres cafe, One World has a restaurant, and Edge has a stylish bar.
Don’t Skip Souvenirs
Observation decks often have exclusive merchandise you won’t find in normal street shops. From miniature skyline models to quirky mugs, these items make excellent keepsakes. Spend some time to browse gift shops before heading back down.