Best Time to Visit The Edge NYC

In March 2020, The Edge finally opened its doors to the public, becoming one of New York's most sought-after attractions for tourists and locals alike. Its 345 metres in height and glass-floored and walled terraces offer the chance to see the city from the sky like no other viewpoint.

If you've already decided to visit or are still undecided, here's everything you need to know to choose when to book your tickets for The Edge and the best time to go up and explore its terraces. I recommend planning this visit, because it's definitely one of the must-see attractions in NYC.

Without a doubt, sunset is the best time to visit The Edge. You'll have breathtaking views of New York as the city lights come to life. You'll also be able to see the city in a thousand colours and shades and take home the most spectacular photos. Seeing 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 additional €9 for access during this time slot. But at Hellotickets, you can buy your ticket for The Edge at the same price, whatever time you choose to visit.

However, if you prefer to avoid crowds and have a more relaxed experience, the early morning hours are also ideal. This way, you can contemplate the New York skyline in peace and take photos without so many people around, enjoying this iconic attraction to the fullest. The Edge observatory is open 365 days a year, from 8 a.m. to midnight and from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m., depending on the season. Except in very extreme weather conditions, the viewpoint never closes its doors.

On days with extreme weather (snow, strong winds or heavy rain), you may find that the outdoor terrace (the glass floor) is closed for safety reasons. It would be a shame to miss it because it is the most impressive part. That's why I recommend checking the weather forecast before you go if you're travelling in winter, in case heavy rain or snow is forecast.

In any case, bear in mind that you'll also have incredible views from the indoor observatory and you'll be able to see the city in 360º, come rain or shine. This will still allow you to take wonderful photos and experience the adrenaline rush in a more conservative way. It's also a good option for people who don't like heights (like me!).

As a final tip, I would recommend choosing a sunny day before buying your ticket for The Edge, as clouds could also spoil your views (and your photos). If you buy your tickets at Hellotickets, you can make changes, giving you more flexibility to choose the best time to go up.

If you don't like crowds and want to have New York at your feet and almost all to yourself, the early hours of the morning are ideal for visiting The Edge. This is the time of day when there are fewer visitors.

The observatory opens at 8 a.m., 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. What's more, if you visit during the winter season, you'll be able to see the sunrise from Eastern Point! All to yourself.

Ceci's Traveller Tip

If you want to visit The Edge when it's not too crowded, it's important to buy your tickets in advance. This will ensure you're among the first to get in and avoid queues and unexpected delays. You can get your tickets at Hellotickets from £42.

New York is photogenic at any time of day and any time of year, but if you're going up to The Edge, the best time to photograph Manhattan from above is at sunset. If you're lucky and it's a clear day, you'll be able to take thousands of photos and see an infinite number of colour palettes. It's a way of getting two visits in one and taking home a dreamlike memory 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 getting in the way. The same goes for the floor and glass walls. At that time of day, it is usually 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 camera, I recommend going early in the morning. This is the time of day when there are far fewer people, the facilities are spotless and you will be able to unleash your creative talent in peace.

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

Morning, an experience full of tranquillity

During the early hours of the day, The Edge offers a quieter atmosphere without large crowds. In addition, the views are very clear, perfect for taking photographs. In fact, on clear days, you can see for miles.

Sunset, the golden hour for visiting

Sunset, with its characteristic golden and pink tones, is ideal for those seeking a memorable experience and spectacular views. We recommend arriving at least an hour before sunset, as it is a popular time and there may be large crowds. It is also one of the most romantic moments 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 the urban atmosphere under the stars, you will love this experience.

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

If you're concerned about the budget and prices at The Edge, you should know that, unfortunately, there are no free days. The only visitors who get a reduced rate are children between the ages of 6 and 12 and seniors over 62.

So, my best recommendation to save money or get the best rate is to buy your tickets for The Edge in advance through Hellotickets. This way, you can secure your preferred day and time, paying a single price with no surprises. Plus, with free cancellation and changes, you can choose the day and time that suits you best.

The most expensive times

By the way! If you want to save money, you should know that access on peak days and times costs an additional £1.50 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 when there are no additional charges.

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

Tourist passes are an excellent option as they allow you to visit whenever you want, with no restrictions on dates or times, and at a very competitive price. What's more, many of them offer priority access, which will save you a lot of time.

If you are visiting New York with children or older adults, it is best to choose a day and time to visit The Edge when there are fewer people. Although the terrace is 700 m2 and can accommodate a large number of people, you will enjoy the experience more if it is not crowded.

Going early in the morning, around midday or even in the last few hours before closing time are good options to consider for a peaceful family outing. Remember that your ticket to The Edge includes access to the bar and restaurant, so you can also enjoy lunch or dinner surrounded by movie-like views.

My advice is to go in spring or autumn, which are also the best times of year to visit New York City. New York in spring and autumn has pleasant temperatures, reasonable prices and fewer tourists. All of these factors should be taken into account when choosing when to travel and, therefore, when to visit The Edge.

It is open 365 days a year and never closes (except in the event of extreme weather conditions). But climbing 345 metres above a skyscraper is not something you do every day. And to get the most out of the experience, you need to pay attention to the weather conditions that will accompany you during your trip before purchasing your ticket for The Edge.

New York can be very extreme in winter and summer. Snow and very cold in winter; heat, rain and high humidity in summer. Therefore, I recommend the intermediate seasons, which are less likely to affect your visit. On the contrary, they will give you the chance to appreciate the best views of the city in all its splendour.

The best time to buy your tickets for The Edge and make the most of your visit is first thing in the morning and, if possible, during the week. If your trip to New York is only for a few days or if you're short on time because you don't want to miss anything, you need to make room for The Edge in your schedule and plan your visit.

As tickets require a date and time reservation, you can be sure of being one of the first visitors. You'll be able to explore with few other people around, take all the photos you want, and maybe even have time for a coffee in the bar on the 101st floor.

However, I recommend that you buy your tickets in advance to avoid wasting time queuing at the entrance and running the risk of having to enter later than planned.