See and do · Views · 2026
The best observation decks in New York.
Every one from my own visits, updated September 2026. 5 places.
Visiting an observation deck in New York City is a must for first-time visitors. After living in NYC for years, I’ve put together this guide to observation decks in NYC to save you time and help you make the most of your visit. 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!
- 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.
- One World ObservatoryLandmark · Financial DistrictI’ve sent dozens of friends here. Not one has complained.
- Summit One VanderbiltLandmark · MidtownIt’s the best observation deck restaurant in New York City, and the cocktails are nothing to scoff at, either.
- 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.
- Top of the RockLandmark · MidtownTop of the Rock delivers the best views in the city, no contest.
Edge
Landmark · Chelsea · 30 Hudson Yards, New York, NY 10001
Edge 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.
One World Observatory
Landmark · Financial District · 117 West St, New York, NY 10007
I’ve sent dozens of friends here. Not one has complained.
Summit One Vanderbilt
Landmark · Midtown · 45 E 42nd St, New York, NY 10017
It’s the best observation deck restaurant in New York City, and the cocktails are nothing to scoff at, either.
The Empire State Building
Landmark · Midtown · 20 W 34th St., New York, NY 10001
Arguably 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.
Top of the Rock
Landmark · Midtown · 30 Rockefeller Plaza, New York, NY 10112
Top of the Rock delivers the best views in the city, no contest.
Best observation decks in 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).