Pier 1 · Brooklyn Bridge Park
Start on the waterfront for Lower Manhattan and the Brooklyn Bridge. If you’re walking over the bridge, leave time to reach the water after you come off the pedestrian path. Pier 1 park map
Sightseeing / Skyline views
Where to see the New York City skyline
Compare free NYC skyline views from Brooklyn, Queens and the Staten Island Ferry with ticketed observation decks in Manhattan.
Which skyline view should you pick?
For the Brooklyn Bridge and Lower Manhattan in the same view, start at Pier 1 in Brooklyn Bridge Park. For the Midtown skyline across the East River, go to Gantry Plaza State Park in Queens. If you want to see the city from above, choose a deck based on the buildings you want in the frame.
Three free places to start
Gantry Plaza State Park · Long Island City
Pick this stop for Midtown and the East River. Walk the waterfront paths for different angles and use the park’s site for facilities and access information. Gantry Plaza visitor information
Staten Island Ferry · New York Harbor
The city ferry is free and takes about 25 minutes each way. Board at Whitehall in Manhattan or St. George in Staten Island. Plan for time to disembark and reboard if you’re making the round trip. Ferry rider information
Choose an observation deck
Top of the Rock is a Midtown choice if the Empire State Building or Central Park matters to your view. One World Observatory puts you above Lower Manhattan and the harbor. For a sunset booking, check the local sunset time and the venue’s admission window. If visibility looks poor, a waterfront walk can be easier to move to another day.
Top of the Rock tickets One World Observatory visitor information
Plan for the light
Try daytime for detail in the buildings, or stay through dusk if you want to see windows and bridges light up. Bring a layer for the waterfront and check park or ferry service advisories before you go.
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