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The Best of New York · See and do · Views

The best observation decks in New York City

Updated September 2026. 5 places.

Visiting an observation deck in New York City is a must for first-time visitors. The city is full of skyscrapers, but the question I always get from friends and family is.which observation deck is actually worth your time?

As a local who’s hosted dozens of friends, and taken all of them to observation decks around NYC, I’ve done my rounds. There are currently five observation decks in New York City to choose from, and in this guide, I’ll rank them based on the views and overall experience. Let’s dive in!

Antonina PattizWriter and photographer · how I decide
Best of New York 2026, New York Dearest

Best observation decks in New York City, 2026

  1. EdgeLandmark · ChelseaEdge is the highest outdoor sky deck in the Western Hemisphere, jutting out 100 stories above Hudson Yards with a glass floor and angled glass walls.
  2. One World ObservatoryLandmark · Financial District
  3. Summit One VanderbiltLandmark · MidtownIt’s the best observation deck restaurant in New York City, and the cocktails are nothing to scoff at, either.
  4. The Empire State BuildingLandmark · MidtownArguably the most famous building in New York City, the Empire State Building offers views so legendary, even King Kong couldn’t resist climbing it for a peek.
  5. Top of the RockLandmark · MidtownTop of the Rock delivers the best views in the city, no contest.

On the map

Where they are

3 neighborhoods, Midtown and Chelsea most of all.

Midtown

Chelsea

Financial District

Best of New York 2026, New York Dearest

The Best of New York 2026

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The full guide, with the ones that didn't make it and why: All 5 Observation Decks in New York City (Ranked by Locals).