Discover everything you need to know about Manhattan Skyline, New York City including history, facts, how to get there and the best time to visit.

The Basics

From land, water, and air, there are plenty of ways to admire the Manhattan skyline. Take a cruise on the Hudson River, East River, or New York Harbor for views of the city skyline and other landmarks including the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island, or walk across the Brooklyn Bridge or Manhattan Bridge, an activity that provides the chance to see the skyline at your own pace. For aerial views, head to the top of Rockefeller Center, the Empire State Building, or One World Observatory, or opt for a helicopter tour for a VIP-style experience in the Big Apple.

Things to Know Before You Go

The skyline is broken into two notable sections—Midtown Manhattan and Lower Manhattan.
The walk from One World Trade Center to the Empire State Building is about three miles (five kilometers).
If you want to visit a skyscraper observatory such as that at the Empire State Building, consider a skip-the-line ticket to avoid the typically long wait.
For water views without booking a cruise, hop on the free Staten Island Ferry.

When to Get There

Consider the time of day for your viewing based on what you're looking for. If you want great photos, avoid the middle of the day, when the sun is high; for a romantic atmosphere, opt for a dinner cruise or nighttime stroll. Go during the holidays for the chance to admire the skyline in the snow and see the landmark buildings decked out in seasonal decorations.

Trip ideas

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A Tour Guide's New York City

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How to Spend 2 Days in NYC

If you’re spending just two days in New York City, you have enough time to explore Manhattan, visit an outer borough, and take in a Broadway show. To help you make the most of your short city break in the Big Apple, here’s our perfect 2-day itinerary.

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Essential information for acing your winter trip—snow and all.

Famous Buildings in the Manhattan Skyline

The 102-story Empire State Building is possibly the most iconic piece of architecture on the planet, built in 1931 in Art Deco style. The Chrysler Building and Rockefeller Center offer more Art Deco examples, while the Time Warner Center, 4 Times Square, and One World Trade Center (aka Freedom Tower) feature modern architecture.

Recent reviews from experiences in New York City

New York Mini-Vacation 2021

Amoles-28, May 2021

NYC Skyline Tour

Very good, I felt safe and the tour was Great! The pilot was very informative. I was glad to see the city clean and free from smog.

Great experience.

Charles_H, May 2021

New York Helicopter Tour: Manhattan Highlights

Amazing views of the West Side of Manhattan and New Jersey. Pilot and staff were friendly. All COVID-19 protocols were followed to ensure a safe and fun experience.

Amazing cruise

Malba_W, Apr 2021

Statue of Liberty and New York City Skyline Sightseeing Cruise

Very clean and Covid safe. Elegant cruise with great city views. Cocktails were delicious. Enjoyable!

This is by far the best NY cruise

Brenda_Q, Mar 2021

The best experience 100% recommended ! Loved the experience, social distancing, private cruise, no big lineups. Family friendly

Excellent

Keith, Jun 2021

3 1/2-Hour NYC Skyline Dinner & Sightseeing Cruise - World's Fair Marina Queens

The patients and courtesy of you’re crew members was so good so on point. I had a little frustrated moment and they stuck with me through it, the manager she’s fabulous and her team I salute you all!!!!!

Spectacular

Vanincia_W, Jun 2021

Amazing experience from beginning to end. Crew is organized. Sunset over La Guardia Airport, watching the planes ascent and descent. The stop at the Statue of Liberty was remarkable, the lights under the starts were so dreamy. Food was delish, and service was impeccable. Staff always made sure that you were satisfied!

Tour with the best

Edwin_J, May 2021

It was a wonderful experience. Josephine let us feel at home immediately. The check in and boarding went smooth and the tour was fantastic. I will for sure recommend NYC Skyline Tour.

The experience was great and the employees are fantastic!

Paula_E, May 2021

New York Helicopter Services is a fantastic business! The employees are fabulous. They are very kind, helpful, professional, hard-working and very safe. This tour is worth the money and very cool. Special thanks to Jose Acosta, Magnus, Brian and Roberto!!!

Surprise Birthday Gift

Shirley_R, Dec 2020

New York Manhattan Scenic Helicopter Tour

Beautiful day for a sightseeing trip and surprise for my husband. My husband was so excited. Clear skies and perfect for taking pictures of Manhattan.

Great experience

Sabrina_B, Jun 2021

Sitting outdoors and taking in the city. I could hear the announcer talk about the sites better than indoors

Amazing experience

Joaquin_R, Nov 2020

Staff/ Ground crew and pilot were AMAZING! It was my daughter’s birthday and they all went above and beyond to treat her special Thank you

Best day of my life

Steve, Sep 2020

Manhattan Sky Tour: New York Helicopter Flight

I was very pleased with my tour, the day was beautiful for flying, the views were stunning to view all of Manhattan. I would definitely recommend anyone to fly on a helicopter. Definitely a wonderful opportunity. The staff and the pilot very helpful and friendly.

Manhattan Skyline