New York City from above: a review of The Edge NYC

The Edge NYC is one of the most unique and iconic attractions in New York City. Offering a breathtaking 360-degree view of the city skyline, The Edge NYC observation deck is the perfect spot to take in the beauty of the Big Apple. It also offers the so-called City Climb, where visitors can test their bravery by scaling the outside of the tower. From the Empire State Building to the Statue of Liberty, this attraction provides unparalleled views of the city and its many landmarks.

The new, glistening skyscraper – 30 Hudson Yards - opened in early-2020 and stands 1,131 feet tall, making its observation deck the tallest outdoor one in the Western Hemisphere. In this blog post, we'll discuss the view from Edge NYC, reviews, ticket prices, when to visit, and extra services offered at the venue. Not only that, but also a few Viewnary private spaces to rent in NYC as alternatives.

The Edge NYC view

The Edge NYC Observation Deck offers a stunning 360-degree panorama of Manhattan, with unbeatable views of the Hudson and East Rivers, the Empire State Building, One World Trade Center, and more. With floor-to-ceiling glass walls and ceilings, you can take in the incredible beauty of the city from over 1,000 feet up.

The Edge's one-of-a-kind design also allows visitors to get up close and personal with these iconic landmarks like never before - truly an experience that’s distinct from the other observation decks in New York City.

The outdoor, triangular deck actually sticks out of the building itself and is surrounded by glass on all sides, including the floor. This makes you feel totally immersed and aware of the fact that you’re standing at a dizzying height above the bustling streets below. Whether you're admiring the New York skyline during the day or the sparkling lights at night, there's something magical about being able to see so much of New York City at once.

First things first: how to get to the Edge NYC? The Edge NYC location is convenient; it’s in the namesake Hudson Yards, right between Chelsea and Midtown West, and only a few blocks west of the Empire State Building. Simply enter The Shops at 30 Hudson Yards and take the elevator to the 4th floor. There will be signs directing you to the Edge.

Once you arrive, you may be bummed out by the long lines and large crowd. If you’re open to trying a similar experience without those downsides, visit this private outdoor terrace with direct views of the Empire State Building and Manhattan skyline. It’s located on the 22nd floor of a skyscraper in Union Square, giving you unparalleled vistas during both daylight and nighttime hours. Best of all: when you reserve this terrace on Viewnary, you won’t face any long lines or crowds.

Curious to know more about this space and the unique and private experience that awaits you? Simply message the Host on Viewnary Chat or reach out to us – we’re here to help you find the right place for your next romantic date, get-together with friends or creative photoshoot.

The Edge NYC reviews

The Edge NYC observation deck has been a huge hit among visitors to New York City, and for good reason. From the moment you step out onto the deck, the breathtaking views of the city and the Hudson River will hit you. The fact that it has both an indoor and outdoor deck is widely regarded as a positive feature, too.

However, as with all observation decks in NYC, there are mixed reviews of the Edge. Some of the cons include frustrating crowds, views of major landmarks being obstructed, and the glass panels limiting image quality. Other criticisms are that the timed entry tickets for sunset are sold out extremely quickly. Additionally, the attached Champagne Bar is considered to be overpriced – but more on that later.

So, is the Edge NYC worth it? Compare it with this spacious, open rooftop with expansive views of the NYC skyline available on Viewnary, and let us know your thoughts. Situated in the heart of Chelsea, the collection of rooftops, entirely available to yourself once you book your experience on Viewnary, ironically overlook Hudson Yards and the Empire State Building. With 1,500 square feet of photoshoot and video production space, as well as amenities like a dressing room and elevators, you can rest assured that you’ll capture some stunning pictures that few others have.

The Edge NYC ticket price

Now we can look at how much the Edge costs. As of now, they are as follows if you buy them online (they are slightly pricier if you buy them on-site):

General Admission:

• Adults (ages 13-61): from $40

• Children (ages 6-12): from $35

• Seniors (age 62+): from $38

Flex Pass (visit any time of day):

• Adults (ages 13-61): from $60

• Children (ages 6-12): from $55

• Seniors (age 62+): from $58

Express Admission (visit any time of day, includes priority lanes and priority elevator access):

• Adults (ages 13-61): from $88

• Children (ages 6-12): from $83

• Seniors (age 62+): from $86

City Climb (climbers aged 13-17 must be accompanied by an adult aged 18+):

• From $185

When is the best time to visit the Edge NYC?

When it comes to planning, the best time to visit the Edge NYC is in the early evening when the sun is setting and the lights of the city start to twinkle. If you’re looking for things to do in NYC on New Year’s Eve, it's also the perfect place to watch the New Year's Eve ball drop if you plan ahead. Disclaimer: these are also some of the busiest times!

During the summer, the best time to visit is typically during sunrise or sunset for the most stunning views of New York City. That way, you can get a great view of the city skyline without it being too hot. Additionally, since the Edge NYC observation deck is open from 9am to 11pm, you can also plan a night visit to see the glittering city lights.

If you’re visiting during the winter months, the best time to visit is usually midday for the clearest views. No matter what time of year you visit, be sure to plan your trip accordingly as it can get quite crowded. Consider visiting on weekdays as opposed to weekends and holidays if possible. Also, check out their website or social media pages to stay up-to-date with their latest promotions and discounts.

Extra services: the Edge NYC Champagne Bar

The Edge also features an impressive Champagne Bar. Located on the 100th floor, this bar offers sweeping views of the New York skyline. Visitors can order a variety of champagne varieties, as well as wines, craft cocktails and beers.

The bar also features light fare, such as caviar, truffle flatbread and more. It’s a great spot for visitors to take a break from their sightseeing experience and enjoy a drink while looking out over the skyline of NYC.

One thing to keep in mind is their prices. A flute of champagne can set you back over $20, a beer is $9, coffee is $5, and a Coke goes for $5. This rivals and sometimes even exceeds what you’ll find at NYC rooftop bars like Refinery Rooftop, The Roof at Park South, and  Magic Hour Rooftop Bar & Lounge. Another tip: save a drink at the bar for after the City Climb, since you won’t be allowed to take part if you fail the breathalyzer test.

This is not the only cool spot in New York where you can enjoy a drink with a fabulous setting in the background. How about a drink with a view in NYC in a completely private setting? You can reserve such a moment on Viewnary with your loved one or sip refreshing cocktails with friends at this exclusive rooftop garden with spectacular NYC skyline views.

Take a few friends along for a drink or private rooftop dinner in New York; you can bring your own or communicate with the Host through Viewnary Chat to explore catering options. It doesn’t get more personalized than this, and no champagne bar will be able to top that.

In a nutshell: why it’s worth choosing Viewnary’s private spaces

The Edge is one of the latest things to see in NYC. When it comes to the best observation decks in New York City, this one is already up there. The fact that it’s the highest outdoor observation deck in the Western Hemisphere is a statement in and of itself. With that said, if you vale comfort and privacy, and you want to try a private, personalized, and premium experience with amazing views, it may not be ideal.

Consider a private rooftop rental in NYC instead. There are no long waits, boisterous crowds, or a lack of privacy because these are private spaces that you reserve just for yourself and anybody you’d like to bring along. Not to mention the irritable staff one often encounters at mainstream, public venues like observation decks.

A Viewnary experience, on the other hand, is customized to your precise needs, from the amount of time you want to spend to the included services you wish to have. There is a private space perfect for you, whether it's for a laid-back get-together with friends, a romantic date, a photoshoot, or other creative endeavor.

If you’re a fan of observation decks in New York, check out our review of Summit One Vanderbilt. Last but not least, feel free to contact us for personal advice so that we can guide you through your perfect Viewnary experience.