Best Views in NYC: Observation Decks Compared (2026 Guide)

30.06.26

The rooftop observation decks in New York City are some of the most popular attractions in the city for visitors who want to snap that perfect photo of some of the best views in NYC and soak in the unique urban energy from high above the bustling streets.

If you’re traveling to Manhattan and want an up-close-and-personal experience of the city’s world famous architecture and energy, then read on for a full guide on booking a day at one of New York’s best observation decks, and don’t forget to bring a pair of sunglasses!

NYC OBSERVATION DECKS

Empire State Building: Standing at 1,454 feet (443.2 meters) tall as one of the most famous and iconic buildings in the city since its completion in 1931, this art deco architectural masterpiece has great interactive history and art exhibits to explore on your way to the observation decks where you can look through and be treated to a professional photo taken by a member of staff. The outdoor areas are also heated during the colder months, so this is a great pick year round.

Edge NYC: For thrill-seekers who are looking for a different kind of observation deck experience, Edge lets you lean out over the edge of their outdoor deck made of frameless glass panels that angles outward 1,100 feet above the city streets. If you’re brave enough to stand on top of the glass floor, you can also see a view straight down 100 stories.

One World Observatory: Coming in at 1,776 feet (541.3 meters), One World Trade is the tallest building in the United States. From the top of One World Observatory in the heart of Manhattan’s Financial District, you’ll be able to take in some seriously unforgettable views of views of the Hudson River, the East River, the harbour and the whole of Lower Manhattan. During your visit, you can also ride to the top of the building in the ultra-fast Skypod Elevator (the journey only takes 47 seconds!) enjoy a cocktail or a meal at ONE Dine, and sip a coffee at Illy Caffé and Gelateria.

SUMMIT One Vanderbilt: This is the tallest building in Midtown, clocking in at 1,401 feet (427 meters), and it has 3 different floors of unique lookout points and observation decks. Guests will feel like they’re floating through the all-glass skyboxes 1,100 feet over Madison Avenue and can expect to see art installations from Yayoi Kusama and impressive viewpoints along with a wraparound terrace, restaurant, and take a ride on the world’s tallest external all-glass elevator.

Top of the Rock at Rockefeller Center: An under 20-minute walk from either of our Fitzpatrick Hotels, the Rockefeller Plaza rooftop treats visitors to 360-degree views of Manhattan skyline. There are multiple floors to explore on your journey to the top: On the 67th story, you can enjoy sky-high drinks and light bites at The Weather Room, and enjoy the indoor and outdoor viewing areas on the 69th and 70th floors. Top of the Rock is a favorite with visitors who want photos of the skyline featuring a great view of the Empire State Building.

BEST OF NYC OBSERVATION DECKS

Best for photos: Top of the Rock
Inspired by the famous 1932 photograph Lunch Atop a Skyscraper, the Rockefeller Center’s Beam Experience offers one of the most unique and pulse-pounding photo opportunities in the city. For the slightly less daring, there’s the SKYLIFT glass platform that stretches up past the roof for a truly birds-eye view.
Honorable mention: You can also take a photo inside of King Kong’s hand at the top of the Empire State Building!

Best for couples: One World Observatory
With the most extensive cocktail and dinner menus of the city’s observatories, ONE Mix and ONE Dine at One World Observatory are a great date night pick.

Best for families: Empire State Building
There’s a lot of fun interactive history in the experience of visiting the observation deck at the Empire State Building. Younger visitors will enjoy learning all about the building’s construction with interesting videos and on-site guides.

Best views of iconic landmarks: Top of the Rock
From the 86th floor, you’ll have 360 degree views with key landmarks like the Brooklyn Bridge, Central Park, the Statue of Liberty and the Empire State Building.

Best skyline views: Empire State Building
This original New York skyscraper sits on a piece of prime real estate and is one of the best places to look out over the NYC skyline. You’ll have 360-degree views where you can spot the Statue of Liberty, the Brooklyn Bridge, and more, plus you can use the mounted binoculars to get a close-up.

Accessibility

Empire State Building

  • The observatory and outdoor viewing areas are wheelchair accessible
  • There are wheelchair accessible restrooms on the 80th and 86th floors, and seating areas are available on the 2nd, 80th, and 86th floors
  • Guide dogs are welcome

Edge NYC

  • Both of the observatory floors are accessible via elevator and wheelchair
  • Guide dogs are welcome
  • Skyline seating is available
  • An assertive listening and handheld captioning device are available at guest services, but visitors are encouraged to bring their own headphones

One World Observatory

  • The observation area, restaurant, café, and shop are all wheelchair accessible
  • Guide dogs are welcome
  • ASL interpreters are available with a 2-week advance notice, and braille materials are available at guest services

SUMMIT One Vanderbilt

  • Wheelchair accessible in all observation deck areas including the mirrored floors and outdoor terraces
  • ASL tours and sighted guides are available, but need to be requested at least 3 weeks in advance
  • This observation deck has a heavy focus on sensory experiences, but sensory kits are available upon arrival with headphones, earplugs, and sunglasses. The flashing lights in the elevator can be turned off upon request
  • Guide dogs are welcome, although the large mirrors and art installations may be very disorienting to animals

Top of the Rock

  • The three floors that make up the observatory are all wheelchair accessible
  • Accessible restrooms are available on the mezzanine and 66th floor
  • Guide dogs are welcome
  • Mobility aids such as wheelchairs, walkers, canes, and scooters are permitted on the Skylift viewing platform

 

Our Fitzpatrick Manhattan and Fitzpatrick Grand Central Midtown Manhattan hotels are within easy walking distance to some of the best observation decks in NYC. Fitzpatrick Manhattan is just a 14-minute walk from Rockefeller Center and a 20-minute walk away from SUMMIT One Vanderbilt. Fitzpatrick Grand Central is incredibly well-connected, taking you to SUMMIT One Vanderbilt in 7-minutes, Rockefeller Center in 12 minutes, and the Empire State Building in 20 minutes by foot.

Book your comfortable and convenient stay in Midtown Manhattan today.

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