Discover the Edge observation deck in New York City with this comprehensive guide.

The Edge — a striking cantilevered viewing platform on the 100th floor of a sleek new skyscraper in New York City — welcomed visitors for the first time in March 2020, only to close shortly after due to the pandemic.

Since reopening, Edge has quickly become a top attraction in the city, introducing exciting new experiences like the seasonal "sky skating" activity and a permanent climbing adventure that allows you to ascend even higher — secured by a harness.

If you're considering a visit to New York City, here’s everything you should know about Edge.

Edge Observation Deck

Rising over 1,130 feet high, the outdoor sky deck juts nearly 80 feet from the building's edge. On a clear day, it provides breathtaking panoramas of Manhattan, the Hudson River, and stretches into New Jersey and the neighboring boroughs.

For comparison, the observation deck at One World Trade Center reaches 1,368 feet in height but is located indoors, just like the highest level of the Empire State Building, which stands at 1,250 feet. The outdoor observation deck on the 86th floor of the Empire State Building, at 1,050 feet, is about 80 feet lower than Edge. From Edge, you can also enjoy impressive views of both these iconic structures.

If you're accustomed to the observation decks at One World Trade and the Empire State Building, your experience at Edge may feel quite similar.

You will most likely enter through 20 Hudson Yards, which serves as one of the main access points to the retail, dining, and office complex across from the Vessel, before making your way up to the fourth floor.

As you make your way to Edge after passing through security, you'll encounter a series of multimedia rooms designed to make the wait more enjoyable.

You'll find a photo spot (imagine a step-and-repeat backdrop, minus the red carpet) along with informative exhibits that highlight the neighborhood's clean energy projects and innovative engineering. Notably, the entire area is built on a platform elevated above active railyards.

However, the main attraction is undoubtedly the outdoor observation deck. An elevator whisks you up to the 100th floor in less than a minute, accompanied by a video showcasing the transformation of Hudson Yards from initial blueprints into a thriving community.

The spacious interior, designed by Rockwell Group, boasts neutral marbles and metals that subtly shift colors with the changing light throughout the day. A stunning staircase with seemingly floating steps leads you to the 101st-floor restaurant, Peak.

Alternatively, you can remain on the 100th floor and step out onto Edge.

You’ll be instantly captivated by the 225-square-foot triangular glass cutout in the floor.

Edge showcases enormous 9-foot glass panels that lean outward at a slight angle, enhancing the, well, edgeless feeling of the platform. There are no metal supports obstructing your view of the city; in fact, each of the 79 glass panels is separated by an open edge, allowing for an unobstructed vista — no glass, no glare, just sky — theoretically perfect for smartphone photography.

(In reality, that hasn’t quite worked for me; perhaps my iPhone photography skills need improvement.) However, I can confirm that to the naked eye, the view is nothing short of spectacular, free from reflections or barriers.

At the far eastern point, visitors can lean back and take in the skyline. This corner is designed for just one person at a time, making it ideal for memorable photos.

The wind can really whip around at Edge — the height is palpable due to the lack of barriers against the breeze. However, as you climb the grandstand-style staircase (likely the tallest in the hemisphere), the building shields you from the wind, allowing for a surprisingly tranquil moment — well, except for the multitude of people around you snapping selfies.

I must admit, I have a soft spot for attractions like this. Whenever I explore a new city, my first stop is always the highest viewpoint available. It’s an excellent way to familiarize myself with the area — and an even better way to capture stunning aerial photos of the skyline.

Yet, Edge truly impresses as soon as you step through the revolving glass doors. Perhaps it's the sudden rush of wind that greets you, or maybe it's the remarkably clear view, free from glare and reflections. With its glass floor and sloped walls, Edge feels like a subtle thrill ride.

For those seeking an adrenaline rush, there’s the option to ascend even higher by actually climbing up the outside of the skyscraper.

City Climb

In November 2021, Edge introduced City Climb, an exhilarating opportunity for thrill-seekers to ascend even higher on the glass tower. It’s recognized as the highest outdoor building climb in the world. Participants can wear blue jumpsuits, go through a series of harness inspections and safety briefings, and then tackle a 45-degree staircase before leaning out over the edge and waving to those on the observation deck below.

From putting on your jumpsuit and harness to climbing the stairs and learning to lean back toward Manhattan, the entire adventure lasts around 2 hours. While it's not the most budget-friendly way to spend an afternoon, it offers serious bragging rights for conquering the most thrilling observation deck experience in the city.

Most recently, in January of this year, Edge unveiled a seasonal 1,024-square-foot ice skating rink, which proudly claims the title of the highest in New York City. From now until March 14, you can glide across the ice while enjoying stunning skyline views, and on Thursday and Friday nights, there will even be a live DJ spinning tracks as you skate.

Hours and admission

Adult general admission to Edge starts at $40 when you book your visit online with a specific date and time. Tickets for children aged 6 to 12 begin at $35, while senior tickets start at $38.

Flex Passes need to be reserved for a specific date, but they allow visitors to access Edge at any time. Each adult, child, and senior should plan for an extra $20 per person for this flexibility.

Admission to City Climb is priced at $185, and participants must be at least 13 years old (a responsible adult aged 18 or older must accompany any minors). City Climb tickets also grant access to Edge, plus a medal for bragging rights and a video documenting your ascent.

For those who wish to lace up their skates before (or after) enjoying the view, Sky Skate costs an additional $10 on top of the standard admission to Edge ($50 for adults), which includes 30 minutes on the rink and skate rentals.

While Edge continues to raise the bar, it is no longer the latest observation deck in New York City. That title now belongs to Summit, which debuted in Midtown above Grand Central in October 2021.