I've Been to Every NYC Observation Deck — Here's Why the Newest One Is My Favorite

"Rebranded in 2005, Top of the Rock lifts visitors via a 45-second elevator to open-air observation decks on the 67th, 69th and 70th floors in the heart of midtown Manhattan; I went up for a private event in 2008 and, after decades of familiarity with the area, only returned recently when the modernization was completed with new experiences like The Beam, The Weather Room and Skylift. From the 69th-floor outdoor deck I felt squarely in the epicenter of the city—able to see from the Hudson to the East River and down to Lady Liberty—and the attraction now offers a range of admission options ($40–$61 for ages 13+, $34–$55 for children 6–12, $38–$59 for seniors 65+), with The Beam as a $25 add-on, Skylift a $35 add-on and a VIP Pass (including private access to both) starting at $190." - Rachel Chang Rachel Chang Rachel Chang is a travel and pop culture journalist who contributes to Travel + Leisure, Condé Nast Traveler, Lonely Planet, and more. Travel + Leisure Editorial Guidelines