Best Time to Visit The Edge NYC

In March 2020, The Edge finally opened its doors to the public, making it one of New York's most sought-after attractions for tourists and locals alike. Its 345-metre-high glass-floored and glass-walled terraces offer a view of the city from the sky like no other observation deck.

If you've already made the decision to visit or are still hesitating, I'll tell you everything you need to know so you can choose when to book your tickets for The Edge, the best time to go up and tour its terraces. I advise you to plan this visit, because it is definitely one of the must-see attractions in NYC.

Without a doubt, sunset is the best time to visit the Edge. You'll get a breathtaking view of New York City as the city lights come to life. Plus, you'll be able to see the city in a thousand colours and hues and take home the most spectacular photos. Watching the lights of the city that never sleeps come to life as the sun sets is something you'll never forget.

To go up at sunset, you should know that if you buy your ticket through the official website, you will be charged an increase of about 9€ for access in this time slot. But in Hellotickets you can buy your ticket for The Edge at the same price, no matter what time you choose to visit.

However, if you prefer to avoid the crowds and have a more relaxed experience, the early hours of the morning are also ideal. This way you can take in the New York skyline in peace and quiet and take pictures without the crowds, making the most of this iconic attraction. The Edge Observatory is open 365 days a year, from 8am to midnight and from 10am to 10pm, depending on the season. And barring extreme weather conditions, the observatory never closes its doors.

On extreme weather days (snow, high winds or heavy rain) you may find that the outside terrace (the one with the glass floor) is closed for security reasons. It would be a shame to miss it because it is the most impressive. That's why I recommend that before you go, check the weather forecast if you are travelling in winter, in case they announce a heavy downpour or a monumental snowfall.

In any case, bear in mind that from the indoor observatory you will also have incredible views and you will be able to observe the city in 360º, rain or shine. This will also allow you to take wonderful photos and experience the adrenaline of this experience in a more conservative way. It is also a good option for people who are not so keen on vertigo (like me!).

As a final tip, I would recommend you to choose a sunny day before buying your ticket for The Edge, as the clouds could also blur your views (and your photos). If you buy your tickets on Hellotickets you will be able to make changes, which gives you more flexibility to choose the best time to go up.

If you're overwhelmed by the crowds and want to have New York at your feet and almost to yourself, the early hours of the morning are ideal for a visit to the Edge. This is the least crowded time of day.

From 8am, the observatory opens its doors, so if you don't mind getting up early, buy your ticket for the Edge at this time of day and you'll have 700 square metres of terrace to fly over the city in freedom. Plus, if it's the winter season, you'll be able to watch the sunrise from Eastern Point! All to yourself.

Ceci's Traveller Tip

If you want to visit The Edge with few people, it's important to buy your tickets in advance. This not only ensures you'll be among the first to get through, but also avoids queues and queueing. You can get your tickets from Hellotickes from €42.

New York is photogenic at any time of the year, but if you're going to climb The Edge, the best time to take a picture of Manhattan from the top is at sunset. If you're lucky and it's a clear day, you'll be able to take thousands of photos and see a myriad of colour palettes. It's a way to make two visits in one and take home a dreamy souvenir with the best views from the Edge

When buying your ticket for The Edge, bear in mind that this time slot is also the busiest, so it won't be easy to find a place to set up your camera without someone crossing in front of you. The same goes for the floor and glass walls. At this time of day it is often difficult to find them spotless and they can affect the sharpness of your photographs.

If you are interested in setting up your travel photography set there and not having to dodge too many tourists with your lens, then I recommend that you go very early in the morning. It's the time of day when it's the least crowded, the facilities are spotless and you'll be able to display your creative talents in peace and quiet.

The Edge offers a different experience depending on the time of day and the season of the year you visit. Choosing the best time to visit depends on whether you prefer to avoid crowds, enjoy romantic scenery or admire the illuminated city.

Morning, a tranquil experience

During the early hours of the day, The Edge offers a quieter atmosphere without the crowds. And the views are crystal clear, perfect for photography. In fact, on clear days, they can be seen from a great distance.

Sunset, the golden hour for the visit

Sunset, due to the golden and pink tones that characterise it, is ideal for those looking for a memorable experience and spectacular views. To do so, it is recommended to arrive at least an hour before sunset, as it is a popular time of day and can be very crowded. It is also one of the most romantic times of the day.

Night, the magic of the illuminated skyline

And at night, the Manhattan skyline illuminated with vibrant lights will dazzle you. If you like illuminated views and urban ambience under the stars, you'll love this experience.

The best time to visit The Edge depends on personal preference. If you value tranquillity and clear photos, opt for the early hours of the morning. On the other hand, if you prefer a romantic experience and dazzling colours, sunset is your best choice. And if you're looking to enjoy the illuminated city, a night-time visit will be unforgettable, although it may incur an additional charge.

If you're concerned about budget and prices at The Edge viewing point, you should know that, unfortunately, it does not offer free days out. And the only visitors who have access to a reduced rate are children between 6 and 12 years old and seniors over 62.

So my best recommendation to save money or get the best rate, is to get your tickets for The Edge in advance through Hellotickets. This way, you will be able to secure the day and time of your choice, paying a single price with no surprises. In addition, by offering free cancellations and exchanges, you will be able to choose the day and time you want to go up.

The most expensive times

By the way! If you want to save money, you should know that access on peak days and at peak times is increased by €1.5 per ticket and the time slot when you can see the sunset costs around €9 more than the price of the ticket you have chosen. So if you buy your ticket at the ticket office or on the viewpoint's website, make sure you go at times that don't have these additional charges.

The most flexible option in terms of time and price: tourist passes

Tourist passes are an excellent option as they allow you to access the visit whenever you want, with no time or date restrictions and at a very competitive price. In addition, many of them have priority access, which will save you a lot of time.

If you're visiting New York with children or older adults, it's best to find a day and time to go up to The Edge when it's less crowded. While the terrace is 700m2 and there is enough room to accommodate a generous capacity, you'll enjoy the ride more if it's not crowded.

Going early in the morning, around noon or even in the last hours before closing may be a good option for you to consider taking this family-friendly ride. Remember that with your ticket to The Edge you will have access to the bar and restaurant, so you can also enjoy lunch or dinner, surrounded by the views.

My advice is spring and autumn, which are also the best times of the year to tour New York City. New York in spring and autumn has pleasant temperatures, reasonable prices and fewer tourists. These are all factors in choosing when to travel and therefore when to visit the Edge.

It is open 365 days a year and does not close for anything in the world (barring an unusual weather event). But climbing 345 metres up a skyscraper is not something you do every day. And to get the most out of the experience, it requires that you pay attention to the weather conditions that will accompany you on your journey before you purchase your ticket for the Edge.

New York can be very extreme in winter and summer. Snow and very cold in winter; hot, rainy and very humid in summer. That's why I recommend the in-between seasons, which are the least likely to condition your visit. On the contrary, they will give you the chance to appreciate the best views of the city at its best.

The best time to buy your tickets to The Edge to maximise your visit is early in the morning and ideally on a weekday if possible. If your New York City getaway is only for a few days or if you're on a tight schedule because you don't want to miss anything, you'll want to make room in your diary for the Edge and leave your visit planned.

Since tickets require a reserved date and time, you'll be sure to be among the first visitors. You'll be able to walk around in a small crowd, take all the photos you want, and maybe even have time for a coffee at the bar on the 101st floor.

However, I recommend you get your tickets in advance to avoid wasting time queuing at the entrance and running the risk of having to go in later than you thought.