When you picture New York, you often link it to: tall buildings, observation decks, and iconic skylines.
One of the popular activities for tourists visiting New York is getting on top of the observatory decks.
These decks offer the city’s best views at lower and more affordable prices.
If we could recommend any worthwhile activity in New York, visiting an observation deck would be one of them.
But, deciding on one perfect observation deck to witness most of the city’s iconic skyline can be a little tricky, as the city houses many of them.
Here’s a detailed comparison of NYC’s two most famous observatories, “the Edge vs Top of the Rock.”
The Edge vs Top of the Rock Highlights:
Edge NYC
Highlights
– 100th floor observation deck
– 360-degree views of the City Skyline
– Virtual reality experience
– Cafe with seating area and refreshments
– Time capsule over Hudson Yards
Top of the Rock Highlights
– 70th-floor open-air roof deck
– Indoor and outdoor views
– Virtual sky experience
– Indoor café and bar
– Time capsule over Manhattan
The Edge NYC: Overview
Height: 1,131 feet – Tallest Observatory Deck in Western Hemisphere
Ticket Price: Adults (12 to 61) – $45 Child (6 to 11) – $37 Senior (62+)- $41 Infants – Free
Location: 30 Hudson Yards, Manhattan
Indoor or Outdoor: Both
The Edge NYC is the newcomer to the best observation decks in New York and is part of the Hudson Yards development.
The Edge, a 100th-floor open deck over Manhattan, offers incredible views of the city from Central Park to the Statue of Liberty.
It promises the best views and experiences with its glass floors and the incredible feeling of being alone at the top of Manhattan.
You can stand at the tip of the deck and have a 360 degrees viewpoint to get some fantastic shots of the city that never sleeps.
Another best part of the deck is the Champagne Bar, where you can enjoy beverages while seeing some of the best sights from the top.
Top of the Rock – Overview
Height: 850 feet (260 m)
Ticket Price: Adult (13 to 61) – $44 Child (6 to 12) – $37 Senior (62+) – $41 Infants – Free
Location: 30 Rockefeller Plaza, Central Park, Mid-Downtown Manhattan
Indoor or Outdoor: Both
The Top of the Rock observation deck is located right at Rockefeller’s Center, making it a great spot to view some spectacular landmarks in the city.
This iconic deck in New York offers some of the city’s most stunning views from 70 floors up.
With the fantastic views, you also get a lot of different exhibits and attractions right on the Top of the Rock NYC.
On a clear day, you can see landmarks such as the Empire State Building, Central Park and the Statue of Liberty.
Regarding the Top of the Rock vs The Edge, the first deck offers an unobstructed view of the Empire State Building.
Location and Accessibility
Edge is on the 100th floor of 30 Hudson Yards, while Top of the Rock is on the 70th floor of 30 Rockefeller Plaza.
With close subway stations, both destinations are easily reachable by public transit.
Edge New York is situated in the Hudson Yards district on the west side of Manhattan, whereas Top of the Rock is more centrally placed in Midtown Manhattan.
Because it is closer to many well-known places like Times Square and the Vessel, these sights are a great stop for those exploring multiple things in a single day.
The Edge NYC Location
Visitors can take train no. 7 to the 34th Street-Hudson Yards station, only a few blocks away, to go to Edge NYC. Directions to Edge NYC.
Additionally, the nearby 34th Street-Penn Station station also serves as a stop for the A, C and E lines.
Also, the Hudson Yards shuttle bus connects the Hudson Yards neighborhood with other city sections for free and is available to visitors.
Top of the Rock Location
Top of the Rock NYC is near the Rockefeller Center subway station (47-50 Streets), accessible by the B, D, F and M trains. Direction to Top of the Rock.
Alternatively, you can take train No. 1 to 50th Street or train No. 6 to 51st Street within walking distance.
Views and Panoramas
Both the Edge vs Top of the Rock offers stunning views of the New York City skyline.
However, there are some differences in the views each observation deck offers.
Top of the Rock provides 360-degree views of the city from its three observation decks, including views of Central Park and the Empire State Building.
While from the Edge, you can gaze upon the Hudson River and the Statue of Liberty from its tallest outdoor sky deck.
Hence, Edge’s outdoor sky deck may appeal more to those who want to enjoy the city’s fresh air while sipping a glass of wine.
Edge NYC Views
Unlike other observation decks, Edge New York is a triangular wedge that extends 80 feet from the building’s side, giving the impression that it is floating in midair.
You can get a 360° view of New York and the most famous landmarks, such as the Empire State Building, the Statue of Liberty, and much more.
On a clear day, it is possible to see 80 miles (128 km) to the surrounding areas of New York.
Also, it is perfect for those who enjoy heights and fancy themselves as thrill-seekers to try walking across the glass floor.
Top of the Rock NYC Views
You must see it to believe it!
Top of the Rock has three indoor and outdoor observation decks that present stunning, unrestricted views of New York City.
It is the best observation platform in the city because of the sweeping views from its terraces facing east, west, north, and south.
Top of the Rock is renovating, with exciting new features soon coming to the observation decks.
Some portions may be off-limits while it is being built, but you may still enjoy the breathtaking vistas.
Is it worth visiting the Edge?
Visiting the Edge can be worth it for several reasons:
Whether you’re looking out over the skyline or watching the sunset over the city, the views from the Edge can be memorable.
Edge New York is known for its innovative and unique design.
The building is a modern landmark that sets itself apart from other buildings.
The Edge offers a selection of high-end amenities, including a pool, fitness center, lounge areas, and more, for those who enjoy luxurious experiences.
Whether visiting the Edge New York with friends, family, or on your own, the views and atmosphere of the deck can make for a memorable outing.
Is it worth visiting Top of the Rock?
Top of the Rock NYC is worth visiting if you enjoy scenic views and are interested in seeing iconic landmarks from above.
It’s a unique way to experience the city and get a different perspective on the bustling metropolis.
Along with other features that can improve the experience, this observation deck in New York also provides a range of extras like interactive exhibits and food and beverage options.
Top of the Rock has a unique facility for getting fantastic photos with no glass panels on the 70th floor.
But what makes the Top of the Rock deck even more worth it is the affordable and reasonable price it offers to its visitors.
Which New York Observatory is best? The Edge vs Top of the Rock
Edge New York City
Edge New York holds the upper hand because of its height.
You can access this place at the lowest possible price and during the most convenient times. So, don’t waste your time and get tickets online!
With both decks offering stunning panoramic views, Edge New York holds the upper hand because of its views.
At the Top of the Rock, its observation deck is located on the 70th floor of the building, offering a unique perspective of the city’s skyline.
Meanwhile, Edge NYC is on the 100th floor of 30 Hudson Yards and is the highest outdoor observation deck in the Western Hemisphere.
It features floor-to-ceiling glass walls and an adventurous activity called City Climb, where you can lean forward and feel the city below you.
Visitors can enjoy the skyline from the two-leveled glass ceiling and open-air deck.
Hence, book tickets to the Edge New York deck for something unique and feel the thrill of leaning out from the top.
Know Some of The Best Edge New York Ticket Options:
Skip-the-line Edge ticket: Reach the observation deck by avoiding lines and get priority access to the Edge.
Hudson Yards + Edge New York: Enjoy two attractions at the price of one, Hudson Yards and Edge.
The Museum of Modern Art + Edge tickets: Get a guided tour of MoMA and Edge and see the classic works at pocket-friendly prices.
Madame Tussauds New York + Edge NYC: Get fast-track admission to Madame Tussauds and Edge and save up to 10%.
Edge New York+ American Museum of Natural History: Visit one of the world’s largest natural history museums and the tallest observation deck.
Empire State Building tickets + Edge at Hudson Yards: Enjoy two of New York City’s most popular decks simultaneously.
Go City New York Explorer Pass: Create your own itinerary by choosing upto 10 attractions and save up to 40%.
New York Sightseeing Pass: Enjoy New York City’s 100+ attractions and museums with this pass.
Featured Image: Edgenyc.com, Rockefellercenter.com
