Better Together Here: Exploring NYC

Best Observations Decks in NYC: Pros & Cons of Each + Best Pick

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Choosing the best observation deck in NYC doesn't have to be complicated. In this simple guide, we'll provide some guiding factors on how to choose the best observation deck and some pros and cons of each of the five most popular decks.

And, of course, we'll provide our choice for the best overall observation deck in New York City!

One World Trade Observation Deck Review: Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Most unique viewpoint since the rest of them are in Midtown
  • Best views of the Statue of Liberty & Ellis Island

    • Cons

    • Indoors means less quality pictures and being indoors takes away from the feeling of being "outside" that high up
    • No views of Central Park and uptown areas

      • Get tickets via Viator here.

      Or, via Get Your Guide here.

      One Vanderbilt Observation Deck Review: Pros & Cons

      We haven't been here yet... Good Instagrammable parts, but not much better views than other more iconic options!

      Get tickets via Viator here.

      Or, via Get Your Guide here.

      Top of the Rock Observation Deck Review: Pros & Cons

      Pros:

      • Very central location with immersive views on all sides of the heart of the city
      • Unique view of Empire State Building and One Vanderbilt
      • There is lots to do right around it: ice skating, lots of shops, being close to Times Square, 5th Ave shopping, etc.

        • Cons:

        • Smaller view platform than some of the others and feels more crowded

          • Get tickets via Viator here.

          Or, via Get Your Guide here.

          Empire State Building Observation Deck Review: Pros & Cons

          Pros:

          • Cool educational experience about the building of the Empire State (built in 410 days), at one time the tallest building in the world
          • Iconic, original lookout spot with lots of history

            • Cons:

            • The views and pictures are diminished because of the grating and metal around the edge
            • The area doesn't have as much right near it to do and isn't the best place to visit at night, Herald Square

              • Get tickets via Viator here.

              Or, via Get Your Guide here.

              The Edge Observation Deck with Glass Floor Review: The Best Option

              Pros:

              • The glass floor is a completely unique experience
              • Our favorite panoramic views of all directions from a central location: downtown, Central Park, New Jersey/Hudson, uptown. Especially with the glass walls you get views of the city, park, and water of NYC all in one spot
              • Interesting educational experience about Hudson Yards as you go into the experience
              • The tallest outdoor observation deck in the Western Hemisphere

                • Cons:

                • It can be confusing to find since it's inside of a mall
                • It can be extremely crowded depending on the time of year, with lines for the best picture spots
                • Food and drink options are extremely expensive, even for NYC standards

                  • Get tickets via Viator here.

                  Or, via Get Your Guide here.

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                  Better Together Here: Exploring NYCBy Ashley and Devin Stagg from Better Together Here
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