New York is a city that feels just as impressive from above as it does at street level. As I shared in our family guide to New York at Christmas, this trip was about experiencing the city together, mixing the iconic with the moments that felt right for us as a family. One of the highlights was visiting several of New York’s viewpoints, each offering a completely different perspective on the city. From brand-new observation decks to the most classic views in the world, here’s what we visited – and what we’d recommend.
Each one offered something different. Some surprised us, some felt like bucket-list moments, and some we’d happily do again. If you’re trying to decide which viewpoint is worth your time (and money), this is what we learned. Viewpoints are one of those things people overthink (or overpay for), so I’m hoping our real experience angle in this post will land well.
The New York Viewpoints We Visited and What We’d Recommend
The Edge, Hudson Yards – Best for: wow factor, drama, daylight views
The Edge feels modern, bold, and slightly nerve-wracking – in a good way (for the most part). The glass floor definitely raises the heart rate, and the outward-leaning glass walls make you feel like you’re floating above the city. We visited during the day, which worked really well here. The views stretch for miles, and you get a brilliant sense of how vast New York really is.
What stood out: The sheer scale and the thrill of it all. George wasn’t a fan of this one.
Worth it? Yes, especially if you’ve been before and looking for a viewpoint that feels different from the classic decks.
⭐ Rating: 8.5/10
SUMMIT One Vanderbilt – Best for: sunrise or sunset, photos, modern experience
SUMMIT is an experience as much as a viewpoint. Mirrors, reflections, glass floors – it’s immersive and very visually striking. We timed this one for sunset, which was absolutely the right call. Watching the city change from daylight toa dusk glow was magical. It felt energetic and exciting, and very “New York now”.
What stood out: It’s busy, on every level. George had fun.
Worth it? No, not for us. The queuing, cost and overall experience didn’t hit the mark for us. It’s less about the view at SUMMIT.
⭐ Rating: 7/10
Empire State Building – Best for: night-time views, nostalgia, classic NYC
The Empire State is iconic for a reason. We visited at night, and seeing the city lit up like a Christmas tree was genuinely breath-taking. It’s less about thrills and more about atmosphere. There’s something special about standing up there knowing how many people have done the same over the decades.
What stood out: The night-time views and the sense of history. It felt emotional. George loved this one.
Worth it? Yes – especially if it’s your first trip, or if you’re visiting at Christmas. Less queuing than the newer attractions.
⭐ Rating: 9/10
Top of the Rock, Rockerfeller Centre – Best for: balance of views, seeing both Central Park and the Empire State
Top of the Rock feels classic but calm. The layout is spacious, the views are fantastic, and you get that perfect sightline over the Empire State itself. We loved the atmosphere here – grabbing hot chocolates in The Weather Room, taking our time, and soaking it all in. As well as experiencing The Beam and The Skylift – both a must! At Christmas, the location alone makes it feel extra special.
What stood out: The views especially on a bright blue sky day.
Worth it? Absolutely – this felt like one of the most rounded experiences especially at 10am.
⭐ Rating: 9.5/10
If we had to choose, it would be Top of the Rock if you’re only doing one. If you’re doing two, pair Top of the Rock at sunrise/early morning with Empire State at night. If you love views and don’t mind heights? You honestly can’t go wrong with The Edge.
Final thoughts.
Seeing New York from above gave us a completely different perspective on the city. Each viewpoint showed us something new – the grid of streets, the glow at night, the way the city never really sleeps, the sheer size of NYC! They were tiring days, expensive tickets, and a lot of standing – but every single one felt memorable in its own way. And watching George take it all in made it even more special.
If you’re planning a New York trip, especially at Christmas, I’d absolutely recommend building at least one (ideally two) into your itinerary.
SUMMIT One Vanderbilt
The New York Viewpoints We Visited and What We’d Recommend
This post is just one part of our New York story. I’ve also written about our family guide to visiting New York at Christmas, getting from Newark to Lower Manhattan, the places we loved eating at, and the must-do moments that stood out for us as a family. And don’t forget what I wore in and lastly our planning tips for a stress free trip. Taken together, they reflect how we experienced the city, from street level to skyline views and why this trip meant so much to us.
I’m Kerri-Ann or KA as my friends call me, always found with a cup of coffee in one hand and my camera in the other. I have a huge passion for photography, fitness, fashion and family travel. I started this blog in 2014. It began as my creative outlet after becoming a mummy to our little boy George Archie. I started out blogging about parenting and over the years it has evolved into a blog that covers lifestyle, fashion, family and travel. Today TheKAEdit is ultimately a life and style blog. Thank you for reading x x
