The city’s skyline is a sight to behold, whether you’re looking for a sweeping view of the New York skyline or a vantage point from atop one of the many iconic New York City landmarks.
One of the best ways to enjoy a stunning view of the New York skyline is on Top View NYC bus tours. These tours are available 365 days a year and offer hop on, hop off convenience and GPS triggered narration.
1. Empire State Building
The Empire State Building is a New York City skyscraper and a popular tourist attraction. It is known as the tallest building in the world and features a 102-story Art Deco structure.
The building opened on May 1, 1931 and was designed by architects Shreve, Lamb & Harmon Associates. It is a symbol of New York City, and it has appeared in numerous television series and films.
It is an international cultural icon, and has featured in more than 250 television series and films since it was built. The building is also the tallest structure in Manhattan and can be seen from much of New York.
The Empire State Building is a New York icon that has changed with the times and has been modernized over the years. While some people have protested the overcrowding in the building, it is one of the most popular attractions in New York. The building is open 365 days a year, and the observation decks are accessible to visitors of all ages.
2. Top of the Rock
Top of the Rock offers stunning views of New York City from 70 stories above the iconic Rockefeller Center. It offers 360-degree panoramic views of the Empire State Building, One World Trade Center, the Statue of Liberty, and many more iconic landmarks.
The best time to visit the observation deck is an hour before sunset, which is known as the “golden hour” for photographers. This is when the city lights up and Central Park is illuminated.
Besides being a great spot to take in the panoramic views, the Top of the Rock also has some cool features and art exhibits on display. For example, visitors can visit the New Frontiers installation, which highlights up-and-coming artists from around the city.
Another cool feature of the Top of the Rock is the interactive beam walk, which allows visitors to take a photo of themselves on a steel beam with Central Park in the background. The photo is available for purchase afterward.
3. Sky Portal
The Sky Portal is a 14 foot wide circular window embedded in the floor that gives you the ability to look down on the city below. The Sky Portal offers incredible views of the New York skyline.
This interactive technology experience is an ideal place to take the family for a memorable time together! As the doors open, you’ll first be treated to a short multimedia presentation about the world famous One World Trade Center.
Then, you’ll walk through the foundations room and see the bedrock that allows skyscrapers to rise in New York City. Finally, you’ll ride up to the 102nd floor in 47 seconds through a SkyPod elevator.
4. One World Trade Center
One World Trade Center, also known as Freedom Tower, is the focal point of New York’s skyline. It was built in the aftermath of September 11th and is a memorial to the victims of that tragic event.
It has a cubic base and the edges of the building are chamfered back, forming eight elongated isosceles triangles near the middle. The building is 103 floors high, with 71 floors of office space.
The building is topped by a three-storey public observation deck and there are several below-grade concourses. These include retail spaces, connections to 11 subways and PATH trains, as well as underground access to the ferry terminal on the Hudson River.
The observatory is not just a cool way to see the city; it’s also a place to explore history and technology. Using the technology in Freedom Tower, One World Observatory puts on a time-lapse show and has a portal that allows you to see the street 100 stories below.
5. Top of the Rock Observation Deck
If you’re in New York and want to get the best views of the city, you need to visit the Top of the Rock Observation Deck. This is one of the city’s most popular attractions and features incredible panoramic views.
The observation deck at Rockefeller Center has three different levels to choose from, each with their own unique perspective of the city. The lower two observation decks are enclosed with large glass panels and the highest level is open air, giving you a unobstructed view of Manhattan far below you.
You can purchase tickets for the Top of the Rock online prior to your trip or on site when you arrive at Rockefeller Center. Buying tickets ahead of time means you won’t have to worry about long lines and can get in as soon as possible.
6. The Met
The Met has an incredible collection of art that spans the entire world. It’s one of New York City’s most popular attractions.
The Museum features art ranging from Ancient Egypt to modern art, making it an experience like no other. It also offers a great place to take your kids.
The Met’s extensive collection includes many notable pieces, including the iconic painting of George Washington crossing the Delaware before the Battle of Trenton. In addition, it houses a variety of Greek, Roman, Islamic, Asian, Assyrian, Oceanic, and American works of art.
7. Liberty State Park
Known for its scenic walkways, beautiful waterfront, and green space, Liberty State Park is one of the most popular state parks in New Jersey. Every year, it attracts over five million visitors.
This riverfront promenade offers breathtaking views of Lady Liberty, Ellis Island, and the Freedom Tower. It’s perfect for walkers, bikers, joggers, and rollerbladers who like to take in the scenery.
The 1.5-mile Liberty Walk is a prime attraction for both children and adults. It’s also a great place to picnic and enjoy the water.
For those looking to get in shape, Liberty State Park has a fitness circuit. The park also hosts a number of nature programs for kids throughout the year.
In addition, Liberty State Park is home to a large train shed, which is the site of former Central Railroad of New Jersey operations. The park is currently under review to determine if the shed should be preserved or demolished.
8. Chrysler Building
If you want to experience the best view of New York City, you must check out the Chrysler Building. It is one of the most famous skyscrapers in the city and it is home to a variety of fascinating features.
The Chrysler Building was designed by Architect William Van Alen, and it is considered to be one of the most unique buildings in NYC. It is a great example of Art Deco architecture.
While it is not as tall as the Empire State Building, it still has a lot to offer visitors. Its lobby has a spectacular ceiling mural that pays tribute to the age of industry and innovation.
Its marble flooring is a real testament to its rich history. You can even see the Spirit of Saint Louis, which is a plane that was used by Charles Lindbergh on his first nonstop transatlantic flight.
Another interesting feature of the Chrysler Building is that it is also home to a private club called the Cloud Club, which is situated on floors 66 to 68 of the building. The club is a place where executives can go to relax, and enjoy the stunning views of New York City.
9. Staten Island Ferry
There are a number of ways to get a top view of New York City, but one of the best options is to take the Staten Island Ferry. This is a free service that traverses the five miles between Lower Manhattan and Staten Island in about 25 minutes, and it offers amazing views of both Manhattan and the Statue of Liberty.
The ferry also provides a great way to explore Staten Island and enjoy some of the beautiful scenery that typifies this borough. You can hop off the boat and explore the area on foot, or you can even take a bike on board.
The Staten Island Ferry is a great way to see the sights of NYC, but be aware that it can get crowded during rush hour trips. These boats are packed with commuters going to or from work, so be sure to plan your trip accordingly.
