New York City is a world-renowned tourist hotspot known for its magnificent skyscrapers and unique observation decks.
These observation decks in New York City offer stunning views of the city’s famous skyline dotted with numerous attractions.
Two of the city’s most visited observatory decks are Top of the Rock and the Edge.
This article will examine these two observatory decks, highlighting their similarities and differences to help you determine which one is the best option for you.
Top of the Rock vs the Edge Highlights
| Top of the rock Highlights | Edge Highlights |
|---|---|
| 3-storeyed observatory deck | Sky Deck |
| Indoor and outdoor observation decks | Mid-air suspended observation deck |
| The Virtual Sky-High Experience | City climb experience |
| Buy Top of the Rock Tickets | Buy The Edge Tickets |
About the Top of the Rock
Top of the Rock is an observation deck located on the top of 30 Rockefeller Plaza in New York City.
It provides breathtaking views of the NYC skyline, including some of the famous landmarks such as the Empire State Building, Central Park, and the Hudson River.
Visitors can reach the Observation deck via elevators and enjoy the views from indoor and outdoor observatory platforms.
The deck also has a gift shop and restaurant where visitors can enjoy a bite while taking in the views.
Top of the Rock is a popular tourist destination, attracting millions of visitors annually. It is open seven days a week and is easily accessible via public transportation.
Visitors can purchase tickets in advance to avoid long lines, and various tours and packages are available to enhance the experience.
In conclusion, Top of the Rock offers an unparalleled perspective of New York City and is a must-visit for anyone traveling to the city.
With its stunning views and convenient location, it is no wonder why it is one of the city’s most popular tourist attractions.
About the Edge
Edge is the highest sky deck in the Western Hemisphere located at 30 Hudson Yards.
It offers 360-degree views of the city and the surrounding area, including landmarks such as the Statue of Liberty, the Hudson River, and the Brooklyn Bridge.
Visitors can reach Edge via elevators, which take them to the top of the building in under a minute.
At the observation deck, there are multiple indoor and outdoor areas where visitors can take in the views, as well as a gift shop and a café.
Edge is open year-round and is a popular tourist destination, attracting millions of visitors each year.
Visitors can purchase tickets in advance to avoid long lines and enjoy various tours and packages to enhance the NYC sightseeing experience.
The observation deck is easily accessible via public transportation and is located in the heart of Lower Manhattan.
Overall, The Edge is a must-see attraction in New York City offering one of the best bird’s eye view of the city’s iconic skyline.
What to expect at the Top of the Rock
Top of the Rock is a popular observation deck located on the 67th, 69th, and 70th floors of 30 Rockefeller Plaza in New York City that offers breathtaking views of the city.
The panoramic views from the deck showcase the city skyline, landmarks, and neighborhoods, including the famous Central Park, Empire State Building, and Chrysler Building.
Visitors can also find a gift shop, a café, and time-lapse technology.
Additionally, Top of the Rock frequently hosts special events and exhibitions that change periodically.
What to expect at the Edge
Visitors to Edge, the observation deck at Hudson Yards in New York City, can expect to experience a unique and breathtaking view of the city.
At Edge, visitors will be treated to panoramic views of famous landmarks such as the Hudson River, the Empire State Building, and Central Park.
The observation deck also features interactive exhibits that provide visitors with an immersive experience.
In addition, Edge offers virtual reality tours that allow visitors to experience the city from a different perspective.
For those who want to enjoy a meal with a view, Edge’s restaurant provides the perfect opportunity.
What to do at the Top of the Rock
Top of the Rock is a renowned observation deck situated on the 67th, 69th, and 70th floors of 30 Rockefeller Plaza in New York City.
It is a popular tourist destination that provides visitors with stunning views of the city.
Here are some of the highlights of what one can do at the Top of the Rock:
- Observation Deck: Visitors can take an elevator to the top and admire panoramic views of the city from the outdoor observation deck, which is enclosed in glass for a clear and uninterrupted view of the city and its landmarks.
- Sun and Stars: A special option is available for visitors to experience the observation deck both during the day and at night.
- Rockefeller Center Tour: Visitors can take a guided tour of Rockefeller Center, which includes a visit to the Top of the Rock observation deck, NBC Studios, the Rink at Rockefeller Center, and the Channel Gardens.
- Time-Lapse Technology: The observatory is equipped with time-lapse technology, which condenses an entire day’s activities into a short video that can be watched while taking in the views.
- Shopping and Dining: Top of the Rock has a gift shop and a café where visitors can purchase souvenirs or grab a bite to eat.
- Special Events and Exhibitions: Top of the Rock also hosts events and exhibitions that change periodically, such as photography exhibits or holiday-themed light displays.
What to do at the Edge
The Edge provides a lot of things to do that visitors of every age group can enjoy.
From enjoying the panoramic views of NYC Skyline to having a delicious treat at the cafe, there is a whole lot of wonderful things to do at the Edge.
- Enjoy panoramic views: Edge offers 360-degree views of New York City and the surrounding area, including landmarks such as the Statue of Liberty, the Hudson River, and the Brooklyn Bridge.
- Explore indoor and outdoor observation areas: Visitors can take in the views from indoor and outdoor areas, allowing them to enjoy the city skyline in all types of weather.
- Shop at the gift shop: Edge has a gift shop where visitors can purchase souvenirs and memorabilia to commemorate their visit.
- Dine at the café: Visitors can grab a bite to eat at the café while taking in the views.
- Participate in tours and packages: Various tours and packages are available, offering unique and interactive experiences for visitors.
How to reach the Top of the Rock
Top of the Rock is located at 30 Rockefeller Plaza, New York, NY 10112, United States.
There are various transportation options to reach the Top of the Rock. You can choose any one of them as per your preference and convenience.
Via Public Transportation
The easiest way to get to the Top of the Rock building is to take public transportation.
The building is conveniently located near several subway lines, including the B, D, F, and M
Via Taxi/Ride-Sharing Service:
If public transportation isn’t your thing, you can always take a taxi or ride-sharing service to the Top of the Rock building.
Just make sure to provide the driver with the full address: 30 Rockefeller Plaza, New York, NY 10112.
Via Bus
To get to Rockefeller Center from Broadway, board the M7 bus and exit at 50th Street.
Then, head east on foot.
Note: The bus operates in both northbound and southbound directions.
How to reach the Edge
Edge is located in Hudson Yards in New York City, on the west side of Manhattan.
It is an observation deck and can be reached via several convenient ways:
Via Subway
The number 7 Subway is the primary route to reach Hudson Yards, and it connects to Times Square.
Via Bus
The M34-SBS, M12, and M11 bus lines have stops that are just a short walk away.
Via Taxi/rideshare
Hailing a taxi or using a rideshare service like Uber or Lyft is another convenient way to reach Edge.
Via Car
If you plan to come via car, you will have the option to park at three locations along West 30th Street between 10th and 11th Avenues: 10 Hudson Yards, Abington House, and One Hudson Yards.
Via Ferry
The ferry terminal for Midtown is located at the intersection of West 39th Street and the West Side Highway.
Featured Image: Rockefellercenter.com, Hudsonyardsnewyork.com