Sunset in New York City - Top 10 Spots to View The NYC Sunset

Thinking of a bustling cosmopolitan such as New York City, sunsets (or sunrises) aren’t among the first things that come up in one’s mind. But once you’ve experienced the mesmerizing view that nature has to offer even to the busiest of civilized industrialization, you will more than agree that it’s indeed one of the best sights on earth.
Here we take a look at some of the best spots in NYC to catch a glimpse of this natural wonder – from rooftops to helicopters or cruises – as you want it to be, the Sun has got you covered everywhere, quite literally!

 1. The High Line, Chelsea

The elevated walkway along the abandoned railway track on the west side of Manhattan offers a view of the Hudson River on one side and the Lower West Side on the other.
Along with plenty of benches to relax on, this place is perfect to enjoy the beautiful red skies of the sunset spanning over New Jersey.

2. Valentino Pier, Red Hook

Valentino Pier, located at Ferris Street & Coffey Street in Brooklyn, can’t be beaten when it comes to the striking red views of the sunset across the upper bay areas of NYC.
You can take a ferry there and back from Pier 11, Manhattan.

3. The View: Atop the Marriott Marquis Hotel

The Marriott Marquis Hotel sits amidst the Theatre District of NYC, overlooking Times Square. On the top of the hotel is ‘The View’ – a rotating establishment that turns to the view of a glorious sunset, as you sit in comfort and enjoy your fine-dining experience.

4. The Empire State Building

This iconic building is more than famous, and very rightfully so, for its own reasons. But to add to that, you can experience the day wind down standing atop its majesty and watching the sunset into the horizons of the concrete jungle of the Big Apple.
Albeit it may sound cliché, but experiencing the sunset from the viewing deck of the Empire State Building is definitely worth it, at least once in your lifetime.

5. Top of the Rock, Midtown

You can head to the top of the Rockefeller Centre if you want a different view of the sunset – this time, the sun setting down behind the Empire State Building.
30 Rockefeller Plaza by itself is an iconic destination, being NBC’s NYC home, it is also very well positioned for some great sightseeing. The Top of the Rock has “sweeping, unobstructed views” of Central Park, midtown, and downtown skyscrapers, with both indoor and outdoor viewing platforms.
So, if you’re not a fan of heights, you may want to have a drink at the Rainbow Room bar on the 65th floor instead.

6. Helicopter Rides 

Now this one is a rather less sought-after opinion for obvious budget unfriendly reasons but is well worth the experience and price. If you want a view of the sky, one of the best options is to get closer to the sky!
A Heli ride around the city offers just that, veering across the city’s most iconic buildings and a spectacular view of the red skies of the NYC sunset.

7. On the Waters

New York City offers a host of services to enjoy the view of the city from the waters of the Hudson or East rivers, and there’s no doubt that sunset on waters can be magical!

Embark on a boat trip and a variety of vantage points to enjoy the setting sun is assured, along with the beautiful experience you can have on the rivers, as the sun bids its farewell.

8. Brooklyn Bridge

If you don’t want to stop to see the sunset in the NYC skies, you can consider strolling across the famed Brooklyn Bridge and catch the sun go down for the day, as you cross the East River.
No doubt it is one of the most romantic sites in the city, and to add to that, you can take the trip in both directions as you can start at Brooklyn and catch the skylines of Manhattan glowing with the setting sun.

9. Roosevelt Island Aerial Tram

This aerial tram (gondola) runs over the East River, connecting Midtown with Roosevelt Island. With a little timing and planning, riding the gondolas to or from Roosevelt Island while watching the sunset beyond the skylines over Manhattan is a mesmerizing experience. If you’re an early riser, the sunrise is just equally as impressive too!

10. Battery Park

An unforgettable place to watch the sunset in New York City is Battery Park. Looking out over the New York Harbour, you can grab a drink while you enjoy the golden glow of the setting sun sitting on a bench near the water.

This place offers the best “sunset over the water” experience in NYC with the Staten Island Ferry and Lady Liberty in the backdrop and the waters glowing with spectacular red and orange hues as the sun bids farewell for the day.