New York City becomes a whole other animal at night. Evening brings Manhattan's soaring skyscrapers to life, turning the Big Apple into one of the most dramatic city skylines anywhere. If you're visiting and want to capture the perfect Instagram shot, or you're a local looking to fall back in love with your city, finding the best NYC night view is sure to be an unforgettable experience.
The secret to capturing those stunning night photos of the skyline isn't just the setting - it's the timing, the location, and knowing the insider spots that have unobstructed views of Manhattan's glittering skyline.
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Best Observation Decks For Night Views
Empire State Building Observatory
At 1,050 feet above street level, the Empire State Building is still, of course, the classic for expansive views of the city. The 86th-floor outdoor observatory offers 360-degree views, while the 102nd floor features an enclosed experience.
When to go: Arrive about 30 minutes before sunset to witness the city transform from day to night.
Pro tip: Get advance tickets and save time (and, in some cases, cash).
Top of the Rock at Rockefeller Center
Most photographers consider this the best spot for the ultimate best view of NYC at night. With the city lights surrounding it, the Empire State Building serves as the focal point of the expansive view.
Why it's special:
- Three levels of outdoor viewing.
- Less crowded than the Empire State Building.
- Perfect position for photographing the Empire State Building completely lit up.
One World Observatory
Located at the top of One World Trade Center, this observatory offers panoramic views of Lower Manhattan, the Brooklyn Bridge, and the harbor. The floor-to-ceiling windows are perfect for taking nighttime shots.
Brooklyn's Hidden Gems for Manhattan Views
Brooklyn Bridge Park
This waterfront park is located along the East River and boasts some of Manhattan's most iconic skylines. The park itself boasts numerous vistas, each with its unique charm.
Best areas in the park:
- Pier 1: Classic skyline views of the Brooklyn Bridge.
- Pier 6: Less crowded with family-friendly facilities.
DUMBO Neighborhood: Instagram Hotspot Under the Manhattan Bridge
If you plan to visit multiple locations in one night, having a reliable means of transportation is essential. You can easily travel between each vista with RealCar's NYC rental cars. This is especially true when moving between Brooklyn's waterfront neighborhoods.
Brooklyn Heights Promenade
This elevated walkway offers an unobstructed view of Lower Manhattan and the Financial District. The entire length of the promenade, which is roughly a third of a mile long, offers fantastic photographic opportunities.
Why it's special: The best part is that the elevated vantage point doesn't allow traffic to block your photo, giving you a clear view above FDR Drive.
Roof Top Bars and Restaurants with Irresistible Views
230 Fifth
This Flatiron District rooftop bar has outdoor space with heated igloos during the winter months. The panorama includes the Empire State Building and extends across Midtown Manhattan.
The Press Lounge
Located in Hell's Kitchen, this rooftop bar offers western Hudson River views and northern vistas of Central Park.
Westlight Brooklyn
Westlight, located on the 22nd floor of a tower in Williamsburg, offers a panoramic view of the entire Manhattan skyline and one of the best nighttime views in New York City from Brooklyn.
Special Transportation-Based View Opportunities
Staten Island Ferry
The benefits of this free ferry ride include nostalgic panoramic views of the harbor, the Statue of Liberty, and the Lower Manhattan skyline. The 25-minute trip gives different photographic opportunities.
Photography tip: Take the ferry 30 minutes before sundown for the best light.
Circle Line Harbor Cruise
The cruises are not free, like the Staten Island Ferry, but they provide a closer proximity to landmarks and different perspectives that you cannot get from land.
If you're looking to get to the ferry docks or cruise terminals in style, try out high-end alternatives. Services that let you rent a Range Rover in NYC offer comfort and convenience. You'll enjoy a quality ride while adding an air of sophistication to your evening.
Photography Tips for NYC Night Views
Camera Settings for Beginners
- Use a tripod for sharp photos.
- Set ISO between 800 and 1600.
- Long exposure times (2-8 seconds) for light trails.
- Manual focus on infinity for sharp building details.
Smartphone Photography
- Use night mode if your phone has it.
- Clean your lens before taking a photo.
- Steady your hands against railings for support.
- Take several photos to ensure sharpness.
Planning Your Night View Adventure
The optimal months are October to March, which are great due to the reduced humidity, longer nights, and clearer skies.
Timing considerations:
- Arrive 30 minutes before sunset for the "blue hour."
- Stay 45-60 minutes after sunset to see the city fully lit up.
- Nighttime visits on weekdays tend to have fewer people around.
Weather considerations: Clear nights offer optimal visibility, but don't rule out partially cloudy nights-they can add dramatic qualities to your shots.
Budget Choices
Just because it has a fantastic view doesn't mean it has to cost a lot of money.
Some of the best night views in NYC that are free to enjoy include:
- East River State Park in Brooklyn
- Gantry Plaza State Park in Long Island City
- Liberty State Park in New Jersey
- Central Park's Bow Bridge area
Making the Most of Your Stay
Try to combine multiple locations in a single evening. Begin with an admission-priced observation deck at sunset, and then move to a free area after dark to take pictures of the city's lights. This way, you'll get a variety of images and maximize your experience.
Remember to pack extra batteries for your camera, dress warmly for outdoor viewing locations, and take some time to gaze at the world beyond your lens.
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This story is published in partnership with RealCar.
