Best Places to Watch the Sunset in NYC: Five Unforgettable Views
Find the best places to watch the sunset in NYC, from the Empire State Building Observation Deck to waterfront parks with memorable skyline views.
No New York City itinerary is complete without a dedicated evening to catch the sunset over the skyline. Whether you want a panoramic view from above or a place to pause beside the water, these five spots offer a memorable end to your NYC day.
Sunset in NYC: At a Glance
- For a 360-degree view: Empire State Building Observation Deck, Manhattan
- For Lower Manhattan and the Brooklyn Bridge: Pier 1 at Brooklyn Bridge Park
- For a Midtown skyline photo: Gantry Plaza State Park, Queens
- For a Hudson River rooftop: Pier 57, Manhattan
- For a Brooklyn neighborhood favorite: Sunset Park
- For a quieter river view: Fort Tryon Park, Manhattan
Where Are the Best Places to Watch the Sunset in NYC?
1.The Empire State Building Observation Deck, Midtown Manhattan
See sunset from the heart of the city on the Empire State Building’s open-air 86th Floor Observation Deck. Look west as the sun descends beyond the Hudson River, then circle the deck for colorful NYC skyline views in every direction.
Every Empire State Building ticket includes the immersive museum, where exhibits explore its construction, history, and place in pop culture. Reserve a timed ticket for a slot before sunset, and allow time to enjoy the exhibits before you head to the 86th Floor. Check the ticket page for the sunset time on your visit date.
2. Pier 1 at Brooklyn Bridge Park, Brooklyn
For a classic view of Lower Manhattan across the water, head to Pier 1 at Brooklyn Bridge Park. The waterfront promenade frames the skyline and the Brooklyn Bridge, while the lawns offer room to sit and take it all in. Pier 1 suits visitors who want to turn a sunset stop into a longer Brooklyn outing. From here, New York’s skyline becomes the centerpiece of the scene.
3. Gantry Plaza State Park, Long Island City
Cross the East River to Gantry Plaza State Park in Queens for stunning views of the Midtown Manhattan skyline, with the Empire State Building among the landmarks in view. Walk along the river to try a few photo angles before the light changes. You can frame the skyline between the gantries, focus on the towers across the water, or simply enjoy the broad view from a bench. The park is open daily until 10 p.m., so there is time to see the skyline after sunset, too.
4. Sunset Park, Brooklyn
It’s all in the name. From the high point of Sunset Park, visitors can see the Manhattan skyline, New York Harbor, the Statue of Liberty, and parts of Staten Island and New Jersey. The elevated westward view makes it a strong choice for anyone who wants a broad city scene at sunset.
5. Fort Tryon Park, Upper Manhattan
For a sunset with more trees and river than skyscrapers, visit Fort Tryon Park. Its elevated paths offer views over the Hudson River, and the park’s gardens make the walk part of the experience. This is the spot for visitors who want a slower close to a full day in NYC.
How to Plan Your NYC Sunset
Sunset time changes throughout the year, so check it for your specific date before you set out. Aim to reach your chosen spot early enough to find a view before the sun reaches the horizon. A partly cloudy sky can add color, but clear visibility will help you see more of the skyline.
For the Empire State Building Observation Deck, book a timed ticket ahead of your visit and leave time for the museum. At parks and waterfronts, check current access information and bring an extra layer if you plan to stay after dark.