New York Skyline

travel wonder in America

Why the
New York Skyline
is special

New York City has the world's most recognized and inspiring skyline. Its buildings soar upward, as if sprouting. This occurs in two Manhattan clusters, midtown and downtown, with a "valley" of low buildings in between.

Viewing tips

To enjoy the New York skyline view at its spine-tingling best, you must know both the best times and vantage points.

During the day

The most sensational daytime views occur on sunny days, particularly in the morning (when looking west) and late afternoon (east).

At night

However, the best evening viewing time is not so obvious. It's incredibly romantic on workday nights but rather humdrum on Saturday, Sunday and holiday nights. Reason: When the New York office workers go home, the lights are kept on for the evening cleaning crews. On non-work nights, the crews stay home and you cannot see the fabled New York curtain of diamonds.

New York's best skyline vantages

They are on top of the 102-story Empire State Building and aboard the Circle Line excursion boats, Staten Island Ferry and sightseeing helicopters. The view from the Brooklyn Heights' Promenade (also called  the Esplanade) is a close runner-up.

World Trade

Center Tragedy

September 11, 2001

The New York skyline drastically changed that day as the twin 110-floor towers of the World Trade Center collapsed as a result of terrorist attacks. Loss of life was staggering.

Freedom Tower

A new, higher, and more dramatic structure for the World Trade Center site is in the beginning construction stage.

  

View my 15-page
Best of New York guide

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silver & bronze medal

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I hope your America travel dreams come true - and that 

my New York skyline page helps you enjoy your vacation, tour or trip

©2008 HQP / Hillman Quality Publications