Every observation deck claims the best view. In reality they show you quite different things, and which one is right depends on what you actually want to look at.
The paid decks
Top of the Rock
The only major deck that puts the Empire State Building in your photograph, which makes it the first choice for the classic skyline shot. It also looks north across the whole of Central Park.
Empire State Building
The strongest sense of history, but standing on it means you cannot photograph it. Best for people who want the building itself as the experience.
One World Observatory
The highest point in the city, taking in the whole harbor and both bridges. The drawback is distance from midtown — Central Park is barely visible.
The free angles
- Brooklyn Bridge Park: the best position for the downtown skyline, and exceptional at sunset.
- The AirTrain toward JFK: one stretch has a superb view, for the price of a transit fare.
- Staten Island Ferry: completely free, about an hour round trip, and it passes the Statue of Liberty.
- Gantry Plaza State Park, Long Island City: directly facing midtown, and home to the famous Pepsi-Cola sign.
What we would do
If you are paying for exactly one, make it Top of the Rock. If you would rather pay for none, go to Brooklyn Bridge Park or ride the Staten Island Ferry — honestly, the value there is unbeatable.
Timing
Going up an hour before sunset gets you three versions for one ticket: daylight, blue hour and full night. It is also the most popular slot, so book ahead.
