Edge in New York.

Best Time to Visit The Edge

Fearless adrenaline junkies will love this unique observation deck - but when should you visit?
By Stuart Bak

You know you want to visit The Edge in NYC, but will you go at the crack of dawn, watch the sunrise, gaze out at the sunset or take in the glittering late night lights?

Only the highest outdoor observation platform in the Western hemisphere, Edge sits a mind-melting, knee-trembling, stomach-flipping 1,131 feet in the air. Its triangular, glass-floored platform protrudes 80 feet from the facade of the soaring 30 Hudson Yards building, affording epic views of the Manhattan skyline and – for anyone bold enough to look down – the city streets far, far below. One hundred floors not high enough for ya?

Thrillseekers with nerves of absolute steel can also brave the Edge’s City Climb experience, in which participants are harnessed to the building for a vertical stroll to the top of the skyscraper before being invited to lean forward over the apex at a nauseating 1,271 feet. So now you know what it is (and have either opted in or fainted at the very thought, depending on your constitution), read on to find out more, including the best times to visit the Edge NYC.

Opening hours

 

Edge is open 10AM-10PM daily, year-round, with the last elevator going up 50 minutes before closing time, and guests are welcome to stay as long as they like. City Climb closes a little earlier, with latest entry at 8PM in order to accommodate the entire experience which, including check-in, suiting up, safety briefings and the climb itself, lasts around 90 minutes. Note that there are often extended opening hours during high season, from 8AM-midnight. Check the Edge website for information on operating hours on the date of your planned visit.

The New York Pass includes general admission to Edge, and can save you money when visiting multiple attractions in the Big Apple. We’re talking top-tier bucket-listers like MoMA, the Empire State Building and the Statue of Liberty. Note that an extra fee applies for the City Climb experience – you can book tickets for that here.

Best Time to Visit the Edge

 

If you want to beat the crowds, your best bet is to visit in the morning when Edge opens, or after sunset (bearing in mind the last elevator goes up 50 minutes before closing time). This is easily the most hassle-free way of experiencing Edge as you’ll avoid the worst of the lines. Arriving much later than 10AM pretty much guarantees longer waiting times.

Sunset is the busiest time of the day. No surprise there, perhaps, especially in the age of Instagram, when budding photographers are out in force, eager to capture the flaming skyline at its brick-red, flamingo-pink and bruised-purple best. If you can bear the crowds, it’s definitely worth visiting at this time of day. Plan to book your slot around an hour before the sun is due to go down, to make sure you get there in plenty of time. The crowds dissipate fairly rapidly after this, making late evening a fine time to make your visit. What, after all, could be more iconic than Manhattan after dark, with lights all atwinkle across the famous city skyline? Indeed, the relative post-sunset calm may just be the very best time to visit Edge.

Outside of the golden hour, the busiest times of day at Edge tend to be between noon and 5PM – generally best avoided if you can make it there at *literally* any other time of the day or night.

 

Edge Stats

  • Number of floors: 103.
  • Height: The Edge platform is 1,131 feet (345 meters) up, while adventurous types willing to take on the City Climb experience will reach the dizzy heights of 1,271 feet (381 meters).
  • Elevators: 59.
  • Edge platform: the platform protrudes 80 feet from the building’s facade and boasts a transparent nine-foot-high balcony that’s angled outwards at 6.6 degrees, the better to overhang the streets far below.

Getting to Edge

The No.7 Subway provides the most popular and direct route into Hudson Yards, and several bus lines also stop within a few minutes’ walk. Or you could, you know, make like a true Noo Yoiker and pitch up in an iconic yellow NYC cab.

Tickets

 

A New York Pass saves you money by including general admission to Edge as well as many more Big Apple icons. These include the 9/11 Memorial & Museum, One World Observatory and American Museum of Natural History, as well as a number of walking and cycling tours and much more.

You can also book tickets direct via the Edge website, where you can choose from general admission, flexi, skip the line and annual passes. This is also the place to book slots for the epic City Climb experience.

Where to get Refreshments

There’s a champagne bar on the observatory platform terrace, perfect for that romantic selfie moment, or simply to take the edge off your rising panic. Hungry? You don’t have to look far for sustenance in the Hudson Yards development – there are dozens of bars and restaurants to choose from here.

Best Time to Visit The Edge...

In truth, there’s no bad time to visit Edge: the experience of gazing out across Manhattan’s movie-star skyline from way up in the clouds is one that will stick with you far longer than the mild irritation of having to stand in line for 45 minutes. So: if midday is the only time you can make it, we say do it anyway; you won’t regret it. Sunset is hands down the most beautiful time of day to visit and should be experienced at least once – get there early to avoid disappointment. If, however, crowds (or indeed sunsets) ain’t your thing, try early morning or late evening for shorter waiting times and more elbow room.

Get the New York Pass to make great savings when visiting Edge and other popular New York City attractions!

 

Useful links

More info about The Edge

Get the New York Pass

Edge FAQs

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Free Things to Do in New York City
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Free Things to Do in New York City

The City of Dreams - New York City - is the ultimate destination for workers, students, and all of the human folk across the globe. Living in New York can truly be a dream come true and teach you so much about life in a metropolis that it will always be an experience to remember. That being said, it's not the cheapest city in the world. And, with so many things to see in New York, such as museums, restaurants, parks, and iconic attractions, it's easy to lose track of time and expenses while you're there. Lucky for you, there are plenty of free things to do in New York City! Here is a list of the best things you can do for free in the Big Apple. Including: Central Park High Line Staten Island Ferry New York Public Library and more! Free Things to Do in New York City: Central Park Arguably the most famous park on the planet, Central Park needs no introduction. The backdrop for countless movies and TV shows, its 843 acres of verdant delight are enveloped by the towering concrete of Manhattan. For locals, it's a quick escape from the city's hustle and bustle. For you, it's an excellent excuse for some free fun! If you need to burn off some calories from all the food, get your walking boots on and go exploring! There are tons of lakes, ponds, and bridges to explore, as well as trees to sit beneath with a book or picnic. You could also visit the Conservatory Garden, a free garden full of seasonal flora, fountains, and sculptures. Need some holiday snaps? You'll find tons of Grammable things ripe for the taking. You can even hike in Central Park, thanks to the North Woods. This 40-acre stretch of land includes trails, waterfalls, and opportunities to see some birds. Nice. And, if you've got some spare cash, consider taking a guided bike tour of the park's best bits to see it all in one fell swoop. Free Things to Do in New York City: High Line The High Line is a park built on an old elevated train track. And, given it's the former New York Central Railroad track on the west side of Manhattan, it's guaranteed to offer some of the best views in the city. You can walk through the gardens, check out the contemporary art exhibits and performances, and savor delicious food with your friends and family while getting a unique perspective of the city. Free Things to Do in New York City: Staten Island Ferry Staten Island is where the famous rap ensemble Wu-Tang Clan first came together. So, if you're a fan and want to see where the members grew up, why not take the Staten Island Ferry? Not only will you receive a lesson in NY hip hop, but you'll pass the iconic Statue of Liberty, one of the most photographable monuments on the planet. You can board the ferry at the St. George Terminal on Staten Island or the Whitehall Terminal in Lower Manhattan. The ferry ride takes approximately 25 minutes and operates every day of the week. Free Things to Do in New York City: New York Public Library Bookworms and students rejoice! The New York Public Library is free to visit! And yes, most libraries do offer free entry. While the NYPL name encompasses over 90 libraries in the city's limits, we're talking about its most famous location - the Stephen A. Schwarzman Building. And oh my, is it grandiose. Each room and floor has unique architectural features and many activities besides reading. For students living or studying in NYC, it can get a little mundane to work and hit the books at home. That's why the Rose Reading Room is so popular. This peaceful and spacious area allows anyone to set up shop and study to their brain's content. Image courtesy of legacy1995/Shutterstock Free Things to Do in New York City: Museums No good city would be complete without a comprehensive list of museums, and New York is no different. And if you're looking for free things to do in the Big Apple, some of the best are free too! The American Museum of Natural History is arguably the best of its kind on the planet. Featuring 28 interconnected buildings housing 45 permanent exhibition halls, a planetarium, and a library, you can spend literal hours wandering around. And, with recent additions like the gargantuan Titanosaur to eye up, it'll delight both kids and grown-ups alike. If you're interested in more recent history, learn all about New York at the Museum of the City of New York. It's a mouthful, but there's no better place to chart the city's rise from settlement to metropolis. Free Things to Do in New York City: Times Square Times Square is one of the most iconic spots in New York; with bright lights, street art, and performances, you can take in the true blue New York energy at Times Square. It is also one of the best places to take pictures and indulge in some good food from across the globe. Or, if you want to upgrade your experience, take a guided tour and get the low down on the area's history. New York - a city so nice they named it twice; it is hands-down one of the best cities in the world, and getting the chance to live and study there is truly a dream come true. Make sure to make the most of your time and save some money by exploring these free things to do in New York City. If you are in New York for a longer stay, consider your accommodation options. AmberStudent is an online student accommodation that helps you secure a home of choice on your study abroad journey. This is a great choice for international student housing. And, if you're looking for things to do in New York City that aren't free, the New York Pass has got you covered. Featuring all of the city's best bits, including entry to the Empire State Building, the Statue of Liberty, and the Guggenheim, it's the best way to see it all for one low price!
Dom Bewley
Aerial view of Central Park, New York.
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Things to do in Central Park New York

Central Park is the largest green space in Manhattan, attracting millions of visitors each year. Situated in the heart of the city, this public park serves as a meeting area for visitors and locals alike and stands as an emblem of New York City culture. Whether you’re looking to catch a rowboat on the lake, visit your favorite furry friends at the zoo, or watch classical theater in the great outdoors, you’ll find plenty of reasons to love this urban oasis. So, if you’re thinking about exploring this area of the city, have a read through our comprehensive list of things to do whilst you’re there! Hit the Classics One of our favorite things to do in Central Park is taking a horse-and-carriage tour. A classic New York activity and total crowd-pleaser, the carriage rides at Central Park provide a great way to get to know the city. Along the way, you’ll pass by famous landmarks, beautiful greenery and movie sites. In addition, your tour guide will take you through the unique history, culture and architecture which makes New York New York. Don’t forget to bring your phone so you can capture the magnificent towering structures and interesting statues! To appreciate the natural beauty of the park in all its glory, head over to the Conservatory Garden. Since its opening in 1937, the enclosure has been delighting visitors and locals alike with its spectacular floral displays and gleaming water lily ponds. The garden is made up of three areas, each with a distinct design: the French-style North Garden, the Italianate Center Garden, and the English-style South Garden. Take your time exploring and stop to check out the Vanderbilt Gate and Untermeyer Fountain. Those travelling with family might want to check out Central Park Zoo. Since its opening in 1864, the institute has grown to become one of the most popular destinations of its kind in the city. Situated at the southeast corner of the park, the zoo seeks to provide an engaging and educational experience, with a focus on the restoration of endangered species populations. Upon entrance, you’ll be able to view over 130 species of animals and learn more about where they come from. Before you go, make sure that you check the schedule for penguin and sea lion feedings! Take in the Views Though Central Park is recognized as one of New York’s most beloved outdoor attractions, it’s home to many impressive and unique architectural marvels. Located at Vista Rock, Belvedere Castle is a total must-see for architecture buffs and history geeks alike. Visitors can take tours to view its stunning interiors, as well as an expansive collection of historic artefacts. In addition, this beautiful folly grants stunning views of Turtle Pond and Great Lawn, the Ramble, and the bordering cityscape. See Central Park from a whole new perspective with the next item on our list. From April through to November, visitors can catch a rowboat to admire some of the park’s most picturesque sights. On the ride, you’ll be able to get a closeup of the gorgeous greenery, birds and butterflies, all flourishing in this unique manmade living system. Afterwards, why not grab a bite at the Loeb Boathouse restaurant whilst admiring the beautiful scenery? We couldn’t think of a better way to spend the afternoon! If you’re visiting New York in the springtime, you might want to check out the cherry blossom trees, which should be in full bloom around this time of the year. The best place for cherry blossom peeping runs from 72nd street right through to 96th street, with the biggest clusters around the Reservoir, Cherry Hill and Pilgrim Hill. Try Something New After a long day of exploring, you’ll probably need to stop for some sustenance. Luckily for you, Central Park’s culinary offerings are next to none. Nestled in a quiet idyllic setting, Tavern on the Green serves as the perfect spot for visitors to enjoy a bite whilst taking in those captivating views. But what supports the restaurant’s popularity is the delicious food: grilled lobster and sweet pea risotto, roasted garlic shrimp, and oysters with Asian pear mignonette sauce. With its warm atmosphere, beautiful décor, and breathtaking scenery, this place is well worth the stop. Central Park isn’t just a pretty face; in fact, it serves as a host to a wide variety of interesting and exciting activities. All throughout the summertime, Shakespeare in the Park works to bring first-class productions to a broad audience. Presenting classical theater against the wondrous backdrop of Central Park, this longstanding tradition provides a unique cultural experience to remember. A thoroughly remarkable and captivating experience, this one should be in everyone’s itineraries! Another one of our favorite events held in Central Park is the New York Philharmonic. Each year, the event brings people together from all walks of life to enjoy live classical music right in the heart of the city. Whether you’re a classic music maestro or a casual listener, the experience of one of America's most revered symphony orchestras playing against the backdrop of the starry night sky is a magical experience you won’t want to miss out on. We recommend taking your own food and drink, as well as a waterproof liner to sit on, since there is no official seating. As one of the top New York attractions, Central Park perfectly embodies the city with its bustling atmosphere, historic architecture, and picturesque landscapes as far as the eye can see. The area itself is home to some one-of-a-kind structures, hidden treasures, and exciting activities which can be enjoyed all year round. In addition, you can find seasonal events and programs which are sure to blow your mind. During the springtime, check out the cherry blossom trees, and in the height of summer, enjoy classic music under the sparkling night sky. To make the best out of your vacation, check out the New York Pass. For more information, connect with us on Instagram.
Stuart Bak

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