WHICH NEW YORK SKYSCRAPER SHOULD YOU VISIT?

NEW YORK CITY TRAVEL GUIDE

There are five skyscrapers in New York City with observation decks you can visit. We lived in New York City for two years and we visited them all. If you have the time and funds to go to all of them, that’s amazing! But if not, you’re probably wondering which Skyscraper is best and how to choose which New York City skyscraper you should visit.

There isn’t a right or wrong to this question and different people will have different opinions. In this post, I’ll be comparing New York City’s top observation decks and tell you about each one, this should help you decide which NYC skyscraper is the perfect one (or two) for you to visit.

SO, WHICH NEW YORK SKYSCRAPER SHOULD YOU VISIT?

THE EMPIRE STATE BUILDING

Quite possibly the most iconic building in New York and 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. With the Empire State Building observation deck views, you get to step outside and see 360-degree views of the city. Although you’re outside there are railings so you cannot fall.

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 2.5 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.

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.

THE EDGE

The Edge, sometimes called Hudson Yards observation deck due to it’s 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 fall/ autumn and they had this beautiful leaf display and swing. I heard at Christmas there is an ice skating rink!

I’m going to be completely honest and say, this was our least favourite skyscraper. We had a great time and I’m pleased to have ticked visiting The Edge NYC off our bucket list but probably wouldn’t go back. The glass floor looks over air vents which isn’t the best view (photo 5) and the rest of the views just aren’t as good as others.

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.

TOP OF THE ROCK

The Rockefeller Building is pretty ugly to look at, but the views from the Rockefeller Center observation deck are incredible. You can see 360 degree views from 70 floors up. In my opinion, this is where to get the best view of Manhattan, including views of the Empire State Building and Central Park.

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 skyscrapers to visit and it’s the one that I would recommend.

Tickets: Prices start from $40 per adult. Ages 6-12 start from $34 and children under 5 visit for free.

BOOK TOP OF THE ROCK TICKETS HERE.

ONE WORLD OBSERVATORY / THE FREEDOM TOWER

One World Trade Center observation deck (also known as The Freedom Tower) is the only observation deck in downtown Manhattan. It was built to watch over New York City after the Twin Tower 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. 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!

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 OBSERVATIORY HERE.

THE SUMMIT

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!

The Summit One Vanderbilt experience is like no other. It’s covered in mirrors making it really unique. There is also a room full of balls that is really fun and interactive for kids (although, there were a lot of grownups 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 most family-friendly observation deck in NYC, then this is the best skyscraper for you!

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!

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 VANDERBUILT HERE.

CONCLUSION

So, which New York Skyscraper should you visit? As I said, there is no right or wrong and different people will have different preferences. If you ask me, I’m going to say Top of the Rock would be my first choice, but if you have kids then The Summit might just take the lead!

Thanks for reading this post. I hope I’ve helped you decide which of the fabulous New York skyscrapers you should visit.