Where to Find the Best Views in New York City

One of America's most iconic skyscrapers, the Empire State Building offers 360-degree views from its 86th-floor observatory. Climb to the top to visit its two indoor/outdoor decks, from which you can see Central Park, the Chrysler Building, the Statue of Liberty, and Times Square. Don't miss the art deco lobby at street level or the chance to admire the building itself—some tours offer access at sunrise for ideal lighting or dinnertime for a meal.

If you're looking for an observation deck, you have to catch the views from One World Observatory at One World Trade Center, the Western Hemisphere's tallest building. A Sky Pod zips travelers up to the 102nd floor for views of up to 50 miles away in each direction on a clear day. Pre-book your tickets for priority admission and a direct elevator to the observatory.

From the Top of the Rock's three floors of indoor/outdoor viewing areas, it's possible to see the iconic Freedom Tower, the Empire State Building, the Chrysler Building, and the Brooklyn Bridge. You can also take a Rockefeller Center tour to learn about the building's art and architecture.

There's no better way to get a bird's-eye view of New York City than by flying over it. On a 15-minute helicopter tour, you'll get a look at the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, Central Park, the west side of Manhattan, and more.

Pass by Manhattan and the Statue of Liberty on a river cruise. Daytime sightseeing cruises offer crisp views of the city, while dinner cruises typically include a three-course meal and plenty of time to take in the city skyline at dusk and by night. Ferry tours to the Statue of Liberty also offer opportunities for great photos of the skyline from the water.