New York City is known for its bright lights and endless entertainment, so it’s no wonder that it is one of the world’s most visited cities. From landmarks to museums and history, New York City has something for everyone. Some things a vacationer won’t get away from in NYC are the skyscrapers. Menacing as they may seem, they provide an unparalleled view of the city. Whether a visitor is a business professional or just a tourist, there are several observation decks that offer the best view of NYC.
10 Top Of The Rock At Rockefeller Center
Rockefeller Center is located in the Midtown Manhattan area. Home to NBC Studios, the 70th floor offers spectacular views of Times Square and Central Park. Surprisingly, guests can see clear across Manhattan during the day. The deck also has interactive multimedia exhibits that describe landmarks in NYC history. Visitors can also enjoy the famous Rockettes, a top-notch tap and ballet show, which is performed across from the deck.
9 The Skydeck At Willis Tower
One of the most exciting observation decks is the Skydeck at Willis Tower (formerly Sears Tower) in Chicago. With floor-to-ceiling glass windows that allow for a panoramic view of downtown, visitors can see not only Chicago but also some cities such as New York City and Detroit. The glass windows also allow for a clearer view when the weather is not foggy or rainy. The Skydeck offers a moveable glass floor that allows guests to look down at the ground below them.
8 The Empire State Building
The Empire State Building is an iconic and recognizable landmark in New York City. At 103 floors, it is also the second tallest in the world. With nearly three million visitors each year, it would be a shame not to visit this landmark. Visitors can access the observation deck to get the best possible view using several methods. The first way is via the indoor Sky Walk. It is located on the 86th floor of the building. Here, guests can visit two different floors and get a breathtaking view of New York City. The second way to experience the Empire State Building is by going to the top floor and climbing up a stairway that leads to an open platform on top of the building’s antenna mast. This gives guests a great view of the city’s skyline.
7 One World Observatory
One World Trade Center is a 102-story skyscraper in New York City. It was completed in 2013 and is the tallest building in North America. The Observatory at 1WTC offers panoramic views of Manhattan, including Central Park and even Times Square. The observatory has been open since 2014, but it's still a popular attraction for tourists looking to get up close with nature and architecture alike.
6 Top Of The Rock
The Top of the Rock is a tourist attraction in New York City, located on the 70th floor of the General Electric Building (formerly called General Motors Building). It's open between 8:00 AM and 2:00 AM. So, if tourists are planning on visiting during business hours, they should check their website for specific times. This observation deck offers some of the best views over Manhattan and Brooklyn. So for a family vacation, this should be a top destination that shouldn't miss.
5 Vessel
Vessel is a new attraction in New York City. Located on Pier 16, Vessel is a floating platform that offers visitors an aerial view of the city and its waterways. The attraction includes two glass-enclosed walkways that lead one above the water line. Here, guests can see what's going on below while still feeling like they're part of nature.
4 Staten Island Ferry Terminal
If vacationers are looking for a place to chill out, read a book or even do some work while watching the city pass by, Staten Island Ferry Terminal might be it. The view here is beautiful. Guests will have some great views of Manhattan as well as Brooklyn Bridge and Governors Island in the distance. If visitors are feeling adventurous (and have time), they ought to go up on deck where there are benches with tables to enjoy their meals while watching the boats pass by below them.
3 National September 11 Memorial & Museum
The National September 11 Memorial & Museum is located in the lower Manhattan area, on the site of one of New York City’s most famous landmarks: the World Trade Center. It features an observation deck on its highest point, which offers 360-degree views of Lower Manhattan and George Washington Bridge. Vacationers can also visit a memorial museum dedicated to those who died in the 9/11 attacks. The entire facility is open daily from 10 am–5 pm (closed on Christmas Day).
2 Brooklyn Bridge Park
One key thing tourists should consider before planning a visit to New York is checking out Brooklyn Bridge Park in Brooklyn. It's the largest park in Brooklyn that was opened to the public on June 25, 2010. It has a variety of attractions including a carousel and playgrounds. Brooklyn Bridge Park has a roller rink that allows visitors to enjoy themselves while taking in views of the Manhattan skyline.
1 NYC Department Of Environmental Protection's Catskill Water System Observation Deck
The Catskill Water System Observation Deck is a great place to learn about the water system. It's also an awesome place to take photos. The deck overlooks two reservoirs that supply city drinking water: Lake Tappan and Fishkill Creek. Visitors will see some of the city's oldest water treatment facilities including those from the 19th century.