Some of the most breathtaking and best views in NYC aren't from the top of an observation deck.

While those views are epic, there are some amazing views that aren't only free, but give you a unique slice of all that New York City has to offer.

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1- The Great Lawn (Free)

The Great Lawn offers views of the Midtown skyline that are unbeatable. You get completely unobstructed views of the iconic mega skyscrapers!

2- MET Cloisters Garden (Paid)

The MET Cloisters has unbelievable gardens and life-changing views of the Hudson River and surrounding area.

3- Top of Forest Hills Stadium (Paid)

Forest Hills Stadium is an old tennis stadium now converted into a phenomenal music venue. If you go to the very top of the stadium seating, you get unreal views of the Manhattan skyline in the distance, coupled with the lights, vibes, and music down on the stage.

4- Edge Observation Deck or Any Observation Deck (Paid)

Observation decks are arguably the best way to get sweeping views of NYC. We recommend the Edge, but check out our breakdown of the best observation decks in NYC here.

5- Governor's Island (Free)

It is a beautiful spot that offers amazing views of the Statue of Liberty and Manhattan's lower skyline. Even the views from the ferry are iconic!

6- Brooklyn Bridge Park & Brooklyn Heights Promenade (Free)

Near the water in Dumbo is the Brooklyn Bridge Park. The park boasts phenomenal views of downtown Manhattan!

7- Newport Green Park (Free)

It isn't in NYC, but right across the Hudson River in New Jersey. Newport Green Park provides stunning views of downtown Manhattan & Midtown skyline.

8- Brooklyn Botanic Garden (Paid)

NYC's best views aren't just skyscrapers and expansive cityscapes. The Brooklyn Botanic Garden is a 52-acre space featuring cherry blossoms, rose gardens, Japanese gardens, & much more.

9- Times Square at Night

Times Square is one of the most iconic landmarks in NYC, and for good reason. The first time you step out of the Times Square subway at night and into the flood of bright lights, screens, & energy, it can be awe-inspiring.

10- Flying In & Out of LGA (Paid, Duh)

While we believe La Guardia is the best airport in New York City for many reasons, one of those reasons is the epic views you get at takeoff and landing.

11- Beaches (Free)

Rarely do travelers think of lying on the beach when planning their NYC adventures, but the city has some top-notch beachfront areas in the summer.

The best part? Most of the best NYC beaches are accessible via public transportation. Explore great beach options in NYC here.

12- Biking or Walking Down the Hudson River Parkway (Free-ish)

The Hudson River Parkway is one of our favorite spots in all of NYC. On the far west side of Manhattan, along the water, is a picturesque walkway and bike path with unbeatable views of the Hudson River & the surrounding city.

13- Little Island & Top of Pier 57 (Free)

Little Island provides beautiful views of downtown Manhattan, and you're literally on top of the Hudson River. Right next door, you'll find Pier 57 with its food hall and rooftop park.

14- Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir (Free)

While similar-ish to the Great Lawn mentioned in this article, the Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis Reservoir in Central Park has unobstructed views of ALL sides of the surrounding skyline.

What I love most about the reservoir is that it is typically pretty quiet and serene.

15- Any Ferry - Sound View, Staten Island, Rockaway Beach (Paid & Free)

One of the easiest ways to get amazing views of NYC is to get out on the water near the city via the NYC Ferry system.

You'll Have to Check It Out Segment - Russian Vodka Room

Their daily happy hour from 4-7 pm includes their vast array of flavored vodkas for only $7. Check out the Russian Vodka Room in Midtown here.