# Best viewpoints and observation decks in New York City

Skyscraper decks, rooftops and waterfront parks: the best places to see the New York skyline according to travel guides and New Yorkers.

- 68 votes · 12 items
- Dec 15, 2025 · Matthew R.
- https://even.best/en/l/1673/best-viewpoints-and-observation-decks-in-new-york-city

## Top 10

1. **Top of the Rock** (7 · ▲7 ▼0) — Rockefeller Center deck with the best view of the Empire State.
2. **The Met Cantor Roof Garden** (7 · ▲7 ▼0) — Seasonal rooftop above Central Park.
3. **Empire State Building** (5 · ▲6 ▼1) — The classic 86th-floor open-air deck.
4. **DUMBO – Washington Street** (5 · ▲6 ▼1) — The famous view of the Manhattan Bridge framing the Empire State.
5. **Roosevelt Island Tramway** (5 · ▲6 ▼1) — Aerial tram over the East River.
6. **Edge at Hudson Yards** (5 · ▲5 ▼0) — Glass-floored outdoor sky deck jutting from the 100th floor.
7. **SUMMIT One Vanderbilt** (4 · ▲6 ▼2) — Mirrored rooms and glass ledges next to Grand Central.
8. **One World Observatory** (4 · ▲4 ▼0) — The highest deck in the Western Hemisphere's tallest building.
9. **Gantry Plaza State Park** (3 · ▲4 ▼1) — Long Island City park facing Midtown.
10. **Staten Island Ferry** (2 · ▲2 ▼0) — Free harbour crossing with skyline views.
11. **Brooklyn Bridge Park** (1 · ▲3 ▼2) — Waterfront park facing Lower Manhattan.
12. **Top of the Strand** (0 · ▲2 ▼2) — Rooftop bar with Empire State views.

How is this ranking ordered? By people's votes: each ▲ adds a point and each ▼ takes one away. Anyone can vote and add what is missing.