There is nothing more exhilarating than the NYC skyline, and what better way to experience it than by finding the best views in NYC.
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New York City, the home of Frank Sinatra, Broadway, the Statue of Liberty and some of the most iconic buildings in the world. It is a magical place packed full of adventure, dreams and one of the most dramatic skylines in the world.
The NYC skyline begs to be seen from the most abstract viewpoints, including some of the most fascinating observation decks. So, where will you get the best views in NYC?
Helicopter Rides in NYC
Manhattan Scenic Helicopter Tour
There is no doubt that the best views in NYC are from the air. Get the perfect birds-eye view of this exceptional city with a helicopter ride. Explore famous landmarks like the Empire State Building and Liberty island without the crowds. Take your time to truly appreciate the cities beauty and enjoy it all from up in the air.
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NYC Skyline at Night
New York City Harbor Lights Cruise
Enjoy the best views of NYC at twilight. There is nothing like a relaxing cruise where you can enjoy the NYC skyline in style. The captain is knowledgeable and will help make the experience informative and fun. You’ll pass by iconic landmarks like the Hudson Bridge and enjoy the perfect city lights without any disturbances.
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New York Skyline Tour
Take the perfect tour to see the NYC skyline at night. There is nothing like seeing the lights of New York glitter; it’s magical. You will leave New York and make your way to Hudson Waterfront in New Jersey for the best views of the city.
On the way, you’ll make a stop at the famous Carlo’s Bakery to taste some of the best-baked goods to come out of New York. Learn more about the gorgeous city and enjoy the perfect views. There’s nothing quite like it.
Top of the Rock Observation Deck
The Rockefeller Centre is one of the most iconic buildings in New York City, and its no wonder that it also offers the most iconic views. Get the best views of New York from the Top of the Rock. Whether it’s during the day when you can pick out stunning landmarks like Central Park or at night when you can enjoy the NYC skyline in its glittering glory.
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Rooftop Restaurants in NYC with the Best Views
Robert
Located on top of the Museum of Arts and Design in Columbus Square, Robert is a modern and charming restaurant. It also offers you some of the best views in NYC. Indulge in exquisite cuisine or pop in for a sundowner; either way, you’ll be treated to one of the most stylish views in the city. This is definitely an Instagram-worthy spot.
New York Rooftop Lounge Experience
Take a tour of some of the best rooftop bars in NYC. You will visit three NYC hotspots where you can enjoy drinks, mingling with the locals and the perfect city views. It is the ultimate bar and lounge experience that is not to be missed. Visit the idyllic Paramount Hotel and make a stop at the iconic Hudson Terrace for the ultimate NYC rooftop experience.
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Sky Room
Probably one of the glitziest rooftop bars in NYC, Sky Room lives up to its reputation. A stop here guarantees you some of the best views in NYC. And while your getting your fill of perfect views, have a cocktail or order something off their menu, it’s the perfect way to soak in some New York glam. If a night club/lounge vibe is your style, then this is a great place to spend some time when in NYC.
Best Views in NYC from High Rises
Empire State Building Sunrise Experience
What better way to experience the city that never sleeps than with a sunrise tour of the Empire State Building. Offering you one of the best views in NYC, you don’t want to miss this golden experience. Make your way to the observation deck before the building opens for the day to enjoy the perfect skyline views of NYC without the usual crowds. It is the perfect opportunity to enjoy the best views of NYC and have an experience like no other.
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Metropolitan New York & The Edge Observation Tour
If you are looking for the best views in NYC and an adrenaline-pumping experience, The Edge is the perfect place to find both. Make your way through the hustle and bustle of midtown Manhattan with a guide to have a full experience and learn all about the best places in the area. You’ll then make your way to one of the most exhilarating observation decks in NYC.
High Line & Hudson Yards Walking Tour
NYC is full of gorgeous attractions and street-inspired art. The High Line is a great place to escape the crazy city and take in the beauty and serenity of this elevated park with well-tended gardens. On your way, you’ll pass by stunning public art, some of the best views of NYC and its skyline, as well as the Hudson River. Make your way past Vessel, an interactive artwork at Hudson Yards and end your tour at the iconic Chelsea Market.
New York CityPASS
If you would rather explore NYC and all the excellent locations it has to offer on your own, why not invest in the New York CityPass. It is expensive, but if you are on an extended trip and want to see as much as possible, then this is the way to go. One of the best things about the CityPass is that you’ll have access to The Rock, so you can visit it multiple times, day and night and really get to appreciate the best views in NYC.
NYC Ground Zero & One World Observatory
No visit to NYC is complete without a stop at Ground Zero and the 9/11 Memorial. Take a tour through the space where the World Trade Centre once stood and learn more about the events of that tragic day. Wander through the 9/11 Museum and make your way past the Delta Fountains. End the tour with the best views of NYC from the One World Observatory, where you will ride up to the top in the fastest elevator in the world.
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Best Views in NYC from the Water
Manhattan Architecture Yacht Cruise
It’s no secret that New York City is home to some of the most inspiring architecture in the world. If you’re not one for crowds and prefer a classier way of experiencing the best views in NYC then why not hop aboard a 1920’s style yacht for an epic sightseeing tour. The tour takes you around Manhattan island and showcases some of the most magnificent feats of architecture that the city has to offer.
Manhattan Adventure Boat Ride
Take an adventure boat trip and check out some of the most iconic sites and best views of NYC. The boat is the same one used by journalists and photographers as they cover breaking news. Your captain is well-versed in all things NYC and will give you the best commentary on some of the landmarks you will pass while on the tour. It is a unique and wonderful way to explore the NYC skyline and more.
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Best Free Views in NYC
Brooklyn Bridge
The Brooklyn Bridge is a must-see in New York City. If you are looking for the perfect way to stretch your legs and get the best free views of NYC, then taking a walk across the bridge is exactly what you should be doing. The views from the bridge are magnificent and you won’t have to pay any entrance fees or stand in any lines. Walk from the Brooklyn side of the bridge to the Manhattan side for the best views.
Roosevelt Island
The Roosevelt Island sky tram is one of the best ways to get stunning New York City views. There are other ways to reach the island, but this way, you will get the best views of NYC, and you’ll have the opportunity to try something completely different. It isn’t exactly free, but it will only set you back around $2.50, which is much less than most of the other attractions around the city.
Gantry Plaza State Park
With amazing green gardens and exquisite skyline views of Midtown Manhattan, Gantry Plaza State Park is perfect. This 12-acre park has 4 piers that can be explored. Escape the craziness of the city to enjoy a serene walk and some downtime in nature. And as a perk, you’ll get to sit in a picturesque place with the best views of NYC.
NYC Luxury Hotels with Views
Four Seasons Hotel New York
Enjoy a luxurious stay at the infamous Four Seasons. With amazing style, a full-service spa and some of the best views in NYC, it’s not to be missed. Live it up like a celebrity at this one of a kind luxury hotel.
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The Ritz-Carlton New York, Central Park
Overlooking Central Park, the Ritz-Carlton offers you some of the best views of the NYC skyline. Enjoy 5-star style and luxury with an elegant design and rooms with amazing views. You can also enjoy the onsite spa and fitness centre that offers state of the art equipment.
The Dominick Hotel
With 46 stories and floor-to-ceiling windows, The Dominick is a luxurious hotel that offers you some of the best views of Manhattan. The hotel offers a full-service spa and 4 restaurants. The outdoor pool is the show stopper; it overlooks the NYC skyline. Enjoy a quick swim or a drink at the bar for a truly relaxing stay.
Equinox Hotel Hudson Yards
Created with the idea of mental rest and restoration in mind, Equinox Hotel offers you a unique and beautiful setting. The hotel features soundproofed rooms with integrated technology and a peaceful ambience. Top floor rooms also offer the best views of NYC which can be enjoyed in the most serene setting.
New York EDITION
Offering luxury and style, the New York EDITION offers you celebrity treatment. With oversized windows that offer you the best views of NYC, this hotel is the perfect city stay. You can enjoy luxurious rooms, Michelin-star dining and a unique bar made entirely of gold leaf.
Search by location and find your perfect hotel or VRBO vacation rental in NYC:
The best views in NYC can be found in the most extraordinary places, you just have to know where to look.
