New York City’s skyline is iconic, but which skyscraper should you visit? With five skyscrapers with observation decks to choose from, deciding on the best observation deck in NYC to visit can be surprisingly tricky.
Do you go for the glass floor thrill of Edge, the immersive experience at Summit One Vanderbilt, or the classic Empire State Building?
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a returning traveller, this guide compares the top 5 NYC skyscraper observation decks based on what actually matters, including views, experience, crowds, and family-friendliness, to help you decide which one is worth your time (and ticket price).
We spent two years living in New York City, and we visited all five. Which one is best depends on your preferences. Each one offers a different view and experience, so there isn’t a right or wrong answer to this question. Different people will have different opinions.
Below, I’ll break down exactly what each one is like so you can confidently choose the best NYC observation deck for your trip.
NYC OBSERVATION DECK QUICK PLANNING:
Which Observation Deck to Choose:
The best observation deck in NYC really depends on the experience you’re looking for:
🏆 Top of the Rock: best overall skyline views (including the Empire State Building)
✨ SUMMIT One Vanderbilt: best immersive and family-friendly experience
🏛️ Empire State Building: the most iconic NYC landmark experience
🌊 Edge: best for thrill-seekers (glass floor + outdoor sky deck)
🌍 One World Observatory: best downtown skyline and Freedom Tower views
If you plan to visit lots of NYC’s top attractions, you can save big with the New York Pass, which covers 4 out of these 5 skyscrapers.
Which is the Best Observation Deck in NYC for you to visit?
Below, I will list all of the tall buildings in New York with observation decks and include the pros and cons for each. This should help you decide which is the best one (or two) for you! Our 4 days in New York Itinerary is perfect to plan these into your visit. This itinerary is great for a first-time visitor and is also family-friendly.
The Empire State Building
The Empire State Building is quite possibly the most iconic building in New York, famous for having King Kong climb it, amongst other things! It is often considered the top observation deck in NYC. This is certainly something that will be on most people’s first time in New York bucket list.
On arrival, you get to see the history and the construction of the building before taking the elevator (lift) up to the 86th floor observation deck. The Empire State Building has two observation decks. Firstly, the main observation deck on the 86th floor is an outdoor observation deck where you get to step outside and see 360-degree views of the city. Although you’re outside, there are railings so you cannot fall.
Secondly, for an extra cost, you can upgrade your ticket to go to the higher, indoor viewing platform on the 102nd floor, putting you 381 meters in the air!
Looking out from the Empire State Building
We didn’t go higher, but for an extra fee, you can go up to the 102nd floor.
Kid Tip: I don’t feel like the Empire State Building is the best option for little kids. We took our eldest (he was 2 and a half at the time) in a pushchair/stroller. It was very crowded on the observation deck. My husband and I ended up taking turns to go outside, leaving the pushchair inside.
Empire State Building Tickets: Prices start from $44 per adult. Ages 6-12 start from $38, and children under 5 visit for free.
BOOK EMPIRE STATE BUILDING TICKETS HERE.
View from the Empire State Building
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NYC Edge Observation Deck
The Edge, sometimes called the Hudson Yards observation deck due to its location, is the newest and tallest observation deck in NYC. From the glass observation deck, you can look down 100 floors, which is a unique experience. They also have a seasonal setup inside. We visited in the fall/ autumn, and they had this beautiful leaf display and swing. I heard that at Christmas, there is an ice skating rink!
Visiting NYC at Christmas? Read our full guide on that here.
Views from The Edge
If you’re looking for tall buildings in New York to visit, this one is for you! I’m going to be completely honest and say, this was our least favourite NYC skyscraper. We had a great time, and I’m pleased to have ticked visiting The Edge NYC off our bucket list, but I probably wouldn’t go back. The glass floor looks over air vents, which isn’t the best view (photo 1), and the rest of the views just aren’t as good as others.
View Down from Edge’s Glass Floor
Edge Observation Deck Tickets: Prices start from $40 per adult. Ages 6-12 start from $35, and children under 5 visit for free.
BOOK TICKETS FOR THE EDGE HERE.
A Seasonal Display at Edge Observation Deck
Top of The Rock
The Rockefeller Building is pretty ugly to look at, but the views from the Top of the Rock observation deck in Rockefeller Centre are incredible. You can see 360-degree views from 70 floors up. In my opinion, this is the best observation deck in NYC to get the best view of Manhattan. Including views of the Empire State Building and Central Park.
It is located a short walk from Times Square, in the middle of Rockefeller Centre at Rockefeller Plaza. As this is so Central in Manhattan, you’re sure to get the best views.
Looking out from the Top of The Rock
Just remembering it gives me chills. It was much quieter than the top of the Empire State and felt much more relaxed. They’ve recently added a construction-style beam ‘ride’ which looks pretty spectacular!
Top of the Rock is my absolute favourite. I think it’s the best NYC skyscraper to visit, and it’s the one that I would recommend.
Top of the Rock Tickets: Prices start from $40 per adult. Ages 6-12 start from $34 and children under 5 visit for free. The observation deck is included in general admission, but there are optional add-ons, such as the Skylift, which are changed periodically.
BOOK TOP OF THE ROCK TICKETS HERE.
Incredible View from the Top of The Rock
The Freedom Tower / One World Observatory
One World Observatory observation deck (also known as The Freedom Tower and One World Trade Center) is the only observation deck in downtown Manhattan. It is one of NYC’s tallest buildings, and the tallest of the observation decks open to the public.
It was built to watch over New York City after the Twin Towers tragedy. This building is sleek and iconic and gives you a different view from the others. Here, you’ll be behind glass the whole time – there is no outdoor area.
The overall experience is modern and interactive, showcasing incredible views from the huge glass windows. We visited here without kids, but I think it would be good for them as well.
Sadly, my husband had his phone stolen and we lost many of our photos, including the ones from here. Remember, always back up your devices!
Freedom Tower Tickets: Prices start from $39 per adult. Ages 6-12 start from $33 and children under 5 visit for free.
BUY TICKETS FOR ONE WORLD OBSERVATORY HERE.
Summit One Vanderbilt
This was my children’s favourite. He chose to go back on our last day in New York, which shows how much he loved it!
Inside Summit One Vanderbilt
The Summit One Vanderbilt experience is like no other. Visitors will experience views from the floor to the ceiling glass walls. It’s also covered in mirrors, making it really unique. There is also a room full of giant silver balloons that is really fun and interactive for kids (although there were a lot of grown-ups enjoying it without kids as well). But are the views good? Yes! You get great views of the Empire State, the Chrysler Building and Central Park.
If you’re looking for something truly unique or if you’re looking for the best observation deck in NYC for kids, then this is the skyscraper for you!
Views from Sumit One Vanderbilt
Tip: on sunny days it is blinding. If possible, go when it’s overcast or remember to take sunglasses.
Mum Tip: everywhere is mirrors. If you wear a dress/ skirt, people will be able to see up it, so plan trousers!
Summit One Vanderbilt Tickets: Prices start from $43 per adult. Ages 6-12 start from $37, and children under 5 visit for free.
BUY TICKETS TO SUMMIT ONE VANDERBILT HERE.
More Views from Summit One Vanderbilt
So, Which is the Best Observation Deck in NYC for You?
There’s no single “best” observation deck in NYC for everyone — it really depends on the kind of experience you’re looking for.
If you want my honest recommendation, Top of the Rock is the best overall observation deck in NYC. It offers unbeatable views of the Empire State Building and Central Park, without the glass reflections you get at some newer decks. It’s the most balanced option for first-time visitors and anyone wanting that classic New York skyline experience.
However, SUMMIT One Vanderbilt is the best choice if you’re visiting NYC with kids (or want something more immersive). It’s interactive, fun, and feels like an experience in itself, not just a viewing platform.
Of course, each observation deck in NYC has something unique to offer. Edge is incredible for thrill-seekers, the Empire State Building is iconic, and One World Observatory gives you amazing downtown views.
If you can only choose one, I would go with Top of the Rock. If you have time for two, pair it with SUMMIT for a completely different experience.
Thanks for reading this post. I hope I’ve helped you decide which of the fabulous New York skyscrapers you should visit, and you enjoy your trip!
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Thank you so much for reading this post on comparing NYC’s observation decks. I hope I’ve helped you make your decision, and you have an amazing time in New York City!
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