The Edge in NYC

The Edge is a new observation outdoor deck that provides the experience of overlooking New York City. With 360-degree views, it feels like you are floating 100 floors from the ground. This is the highest outdoor sky decks in the western hemisphere! The sky-high view of the Edge makes the city look like an urbanism model especially when the sun sets.

It opened two days before the city went on lockdown in March. I remember passing by the West Side of Manhattan daily during construction . Seeing the development of this observatory was thrilling and I could not wait to enter once it was completed.

It has been open for only a few months due to COVID-19. Visiting this observatory has a few restrictions. These include. limited visitors, the requirement of wearing a mask, and social distancing similar to all other buildings and stores. However, that does not disturb the breathtaking view that the Edge has. It was designed to see the city uniquely; on an edge.

Once you are in the observatory, you can walk on a triangular-shaped glass floor to look down at the city. There is also a higher view one flight upstairs. The Peak restaurant provides a unique dining experience on the 101st floor.

Note: You also get spectacular views from the inside of the building, so do not underestimate it.

In essence, this place is worth visiting. The Edge provides a certain feeling of freedom, an escape from reality, and a wonderful view of one of the most important cities in the world.

My Tips/information when visiting the Edge:

Buy the tickets online to secure your visit, since only 25 percent of capacity is permitted
Tickets are $36 for adults, $31 for children (ages 6-12), and $34 for seniors (ages 62 and older).
Staff will be taking the temperature of every guest and employee before entering the Edge.
If you want to sit, have a higher view, and have a glass of champagne, add it to the ticket online, (purchasing it in person will be 20% more).
You can also buy snacks and less expensive drinks, and have access to sit on the stairs.
Visualize where you want to take pictures because sometimes there are lines to do so.
You must wear a mask except when taking a picture, while still social distancing.
Make sure to enjoy going up the elevator and the small installation they have along the way.
Check Instagram to get inspired by other people’s photos and take similar shots.
Think about what time you prefer going, and the weather that day. Most people prefer the golden hour (when the sun sets).

Facts about the space:

It is a 7,500-square-foot outdoor viewing
The elevator goes up to the 100th floor in under a minute.
It has 79 glass panels, each weighing 1,400 pounds
The 765,000-pound observation deck comprises of 15 sections, each weighing between 35,000 and 100,000 pounds, all bolted together and anchored to the east and south sides of the building, making it a triangular cantilever.

Best Spot for pictures:

The 3 corners of the floating triangle, you will get different views of New York City and New Jersey.
Take pictures from the inside of the building, through the corners, which will create interesting pictures.
Take pictures from the highest point of the stairs that leads to the restaurant.

See examples below :