'The Empire State Building is the closest thing to heaven in this city.'
One of the most asked questions I get is: ‘which observatory should we book?’
I know! It can be hard to choose only one. So don’t! Pick 2; 1 Uptown & 1 Downtown.
What can I say? I’m a Libra. Making choices is hard.
Anyway, back to the views.
I’ve been in the city numerous times and I never get bored of the views. The thrill of the elevator ride. The excitement when you get out and walk towards the floor to ceiling windows. Take your time. Enjoy the view. Don’t forget to breath.
Here is an overview of the 5 observatories and my opinion on them…
1 + 2: The Classics
They’ve been around way longer than their fancy friends. They’ve stood the test of time and will keep conquering your hearts for years to come.
Empire State Building a.k.a ESB – sounds pretty cool for an oldie no? Another oldie, but goodie is Top of the Rock @Rockefeller.
Make sure to add one of these two on your itinerary.
Travelling with childeren? Choose ESB and visit King Kong.
Want a complete experience around the observatory? Go to Top of the Rock and enjoy all the stores and restaurants around Rockefeller Centre.
3: Is there an Edge at the Edge?
I’ll admit this is my least favorite observatory (don’t tell them). It’s rather small outside. Although it’s the highest outdoor sky deck in the Western Hemisphere. Nothing is really going on.
I know I sound like a spoiled brat. But let’s be honest the competitors are raising the standards and the Edge is not following.
Are you visiting Hudson Yards and don’t have too much time? This one is for you.
The city view is stunning!! The outside experience makes you feel alive and full of energy. And no side tracking by fringes cause there aren’t any…
Don’t get blindsided by the influencers pictures of the glass floor, by now it’s scratched super hard (no protective shoe covers here) and the Eastern Point (the line takes forever). It will not make up for the lack of experience and the little outside platform it really is.
But hold your horses…it does have a major card hidden in his sleeves: The City Climb.
'City Climb is the highest open-air building ascent in the world. Climbers scale the outside of a skyscraper more than 1,200 feet above the ground, then lean out and look down from the highest outdoor platform in New York City. It’s an adventure unlike any other in the world and an achievement that you will remember for the rest of your life.'
Not afraid of heights and in for the experience of a lifetime? This one is for you! Buckle up and enjoy!
4 + 5: The New Kids On the Block
Okay, One World Observatory is not new new. But it is on the same level as The Summit One Vanderbilt.
Both make your visit a true magical experience. Much more than just view gazing. But experiencing the city through your visit. I will not say too much about it.
Don’t want to spoil the magic. Just know there is a lot of pixie dust in the air at both observatories.
Specially at One World. I didn’t see it coming (my friend was like: ‘seriously? You didn’t see it coming??). So I hope you are like me and get blown away. But even if you know, you will still get goosebumps!
Decision Time My loves...
If you have time visit 2 observatories.
One World Observatory will give you the Downtown vibes. The Oculus, 9/11 Memorial, Lady Liberty, Wall Street and much more.
But the 2nd one is slightly more difficult.
Focus Birgit. Forget the Libra in you.
Okay here we go:
Are you a Classic babe who loves King Kong? Go for the Empire State Building. Classic New York!
Are you looking for Central Park views, and want to stay close to your shopping plan? Go for Top of the Rock at Rockefeller.
Are you dressed up and ready to explode your Instagram? Book the Summit. Thank me later!
Let me know in the comments which one you are visiting!
Always in an Empire State of Mind,
xoxo,
B
PS: Keep your eye on the blog, cause I have 2 more posts coming up.
Extra tips on how to get the most out of your observatory visit and alternatives that will give you the same skyline views.
IN A RUSH? PIN IT FOR LATER!
IN A RUSH? PIN IT FOR LATER!
