The Edge vs Top Of The Rock
In the heart of New York City’s concrete jungle, iconic skyscraper observatories offer breathtaking views.
“Top of the Rock” and “Edge,” two renowned decks, rise high amidst the soaring buildings, inviting visitors to experience the sprawling metropolis from astonishing heights.
These architectural marvels provide unparalleled vistas of the bustling city unfolding beneath their feet.
In this in-depth article, we embark on a journey to unravel the distinct characteristics of these two prominent landmarks.
We’ll compare them on various factors such as location, opening hours, view, night view, sunset view, ticket price, accessibility, height, features, floors, and wait time.
Join us to explore the contrasting experiences of Top of the Rock and Edge and find out which one truly reigns as the pinnacle of New York’s sky-high attractions!
Ideal for curious travelers and locals alike.
Location of these NYC Observation Decks
Location of the Edge NYC
The Edge is atop 30 Hudson Yards, one of the city’s newest and most fashionable neighborhoods.
As part of this modern development, The Edge offers visitors a fresh and contemporary experience with its sleek design and impressive architecture.
Its west-side location grants visitors captivating vistas of the Hudson River and the surrounding urban landscape.
Location of Top of the Rock
Top of the Rock is perched at 30 Rockefeller Plaza, Manhattan, right in the heart of New York City.
It benefits from its central location, making it easily accessible to tourists and locals alike.
Being part of the historic Rockefeller Center, visitors not only get to enjoy breathtaking views but also soak in the rich heritage of this iconic landmark.
Comparison
Top of the Rock’s location in the bustling center of Manhattan brings a sense of nostalgia and a deep connection to the city’s history.
On the other hand, The Edge’s location in Hudson Yards provides a modern and stylish atmosphere, reflecting the ever-changing face of New York City.
Whether you prefer the classic charm of Rockefeller Center or the urban chic of Hudson Yards, both locations offer distinct and memorable observation deck experiences with unparalleled views of the city that never sleeps.
The Edge and Top of the Rock both require an admission ticket for visiting. Make sure you book the tickets in advance to avoid any last minute hassle.
Opening Hours of The Edge and Top of the Rock
The Edge Timings
The Edge is open all year from 9 am to 10 pm between Monday and Thursday and 9 am to 12 am between Friday and Sunday.
With its slightly later opening time, visitors can still catch the breathtaking views of New York City during the day and revel in the sparkling cityscape under the night sky.
Top of the Rock Hours
Top of the Rock welcomes visitors daily from 9 am to midnight.
Its extended operating hours allow tourists and locals to visit at their convenience, whether they want to witness the city’s morning hustle, vibrant daytime scenes, or glittering night lights.
Comparison
Both Top of the Rock and The Edge offer extensive opening hours, ensuring visitors can plan their visits according to their preferences.
While Top of the Rock welcomes guests earlier, The Edge’s opening time allows visitors to experience the best daylight and nighttime views.
Whether you’re an early riser or a night owl, both observation decks accommodate various schedules, providing enchanting experiences from sunrise to midnight.
What to Expect – The Edge vs Top of the Rock Features
The Edge
- Skyline Steps: The Edge boasts a one-of-a-kind feature called the “Skyline Steps,” where visitors can stand on a glass floor extending out from the building, offering a thrilling perspective of the city below.
- Highest Outdoor Skydeck: With its unmatched height and open-air environment, The Edge offers an elevated experience as the tallest outdoor sky deck in the Western Hemisphere.
- 360-Degree Panoramic Views: Offering a complete 360-degree view of Manhattan and beyond, The Edge allows visitors to take in the entire cityscape from every angle.
- Champagne Bar: For a touch of luxury, The Edge houses a bar where guests can savor their favorite bubbly while enjoying the breathtaking views.
Top of the Rock
- Art Deco Architecture: One of the notable features of the Top of the Rock is its stunning Art Deco architecture, taking visitors back in time to the golden age of design.
- Sunset and Night Views: The observation deck’s well-positioned viewing platforms provide unforgettable sunset and night views of the city, creating a magical ambiance.
- Three Observation Decks: Top of the Rock offers three distinct observation decks at different heights, allowing visitors to choose their preferred perspective.
- Rockefeller Center Tour: With admission to Top of the Rock, visitors can also explore the Rockefeller Center, including its famous Radio City Music Hall and the Channel Gardens.
Common Features
Both The Edge and Top of the Rock share some essential features that make their visits memorable:
- Interactive Exhibits: Both observatories offer interactive exhibits, providing educational and entertaining experiences about New York City’s history and landmarks.
- Gift Shops: Visitors can browse and purchase souvenirs at gift shops to take home a piece of their experience.
- Dining Options: Both locations offer dining opportunities, allowing guests to enjoy a meal or snack while gazing at the stunning cityscape.
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Comparison
Choosing The Edge and Top of the Rock ultimately concerns personal preferences.
Those seeking a heart-pounding adventure with a glass-floor experience might lean towards The Edge.
At the same time, those captivated by Art Deco’s charm and multiple viewing platforms might find Top of the Rock more appealing.
Whichever option visitors choose, both attractions promise unforgettable moments high above the bustling streets of New York City.
Tickets for the Edge and Top of the Rock
The Edge NYC Tickets Price
The Edge observation deck has multiple ticket variations that you can explore.
- The Edge Admission Ticket: This skip-the-line ticket allows you direct entry to the attraction. The entry with this ticket is timed. The Edge NYC admission ticket costs $34 for children(6-11), $40 for seniors(62-99) and $41 for adults(12-61).
- The Edge Flex Pass: The Edge Flex Pass allows you to visit the Edge any time on the chosen day. You won’t have to book a fixed slot. The Flex pass costs $78 for adults(12-61), $76 for seniors(62-99) and $71(6-11) for children.
- City Climb at Edge NYC: This ticket is for the ultimate skyscraping adventure at Edge Nyc. Here you get to climb to the top of Edge and lean out over the NYC skyline. City Climb is only available for ages 13 and above and costs $201. You’ll also get access to the observation deck.
Top of the Rock Tickets Price
- Top of the Rock Admission Ticket: Top of the Rock offers a single admission ticket for visitors. This ticket gives you skip-the-line access to the three floors of indoor and outdoor viewing decks. The ticket price for Top of the Rock is $43 for adults(13-61), $41 for seniors(62-99) and $37 for children(6-12).
Comparison
If you’re asking for Top of the Rock vs the Edge on the basis of price then there is no great difference.
The Edge admission ticket for adults costs $41 whereas the admission ticket for Top of the Rock costs $43.
In terms of ticket variations the Edge offers more variety with its Flex Pass and City Climb experience.
View From the Observation Decks – Best View of NYC Skyline
Top of the Rock View
Top of the Rock boasts stunning 360-degree views of New York City’s skyline, offering a captivating vantage point to see iconic landmarks such as the Empire State Building, One World Trade Center, and Central Park.
The observation decks on the 67th and 69th floors provide a mix of indoor and outdoor perspectives, allowing visitors to view the city from different angles.
The Edge View NYC
The Edge offers unparalleled 360-degree vistas encompassing Manhattan’s entire skyline, allowing visitors to marvel at the city’s grandeur from its glass floor and angled glass walls on the 100th floor.
This unique vantage point also provides clear views of the Statue of Liberty and the Hudson River.
Comparison
Both Top of the Rock and The Edge provide breathtaking views, allowing visitors to soak in the beauty of New York City from impressive heights.
While Top of the Rock showcases iconic landmarks like the Empire State Building and Central Park, The Edge provides a more panoramic view that spans the entire cityscape, including the Statue of Liberty.
Whether you prefer a mix of indoor and outdoor viewpoints or a sweeping perspective from an entirely outdoor deck, both observation decks offer unforgettable views that showcase the city’s grandeur that never sleeps.
The tickets for these observation decks sell out quickly and admissions are also timed. So make sure you book your tickets now to save your spot!
The Edge vs Top of the Rock Floors
The Edge
- Main Sky Deck: The Edge features the primary and highest outdoor sky deck, offering unobstructed city views from its highest point.
Top of the Rock
- Lower Deck: At the Top of the Rock, visitors can start their journey on the lower observation deck, which provides a fantastic introduction to the cityscape.
- Middle Deck: The middle observation deck offers a higher vantage point, allowing guests to see more of the city’s iconic landmarks in greater detail.
- Top Deck: The topmost observation deck at the Top of the Rock stands at the pinnacle of this attraction, delivering the most stunning and panoramic views of New York City.
Comparison – Edge vs Top of the Rock difference
Choosing between The Edge and Top of the Rock’s floors depends on personal preferences.
The Edge and Top of the Rock have observation decks featuring floor-to-ceiling windows, ensuring an unobstructed view of the city’s skyline.
Visitors seeking the highest and most open vantage point prefer The Edge, while those looking for multiple viewpoints and a well-distributed crowd experience lean towards Top of the Rock.
Regardless of the choice, both observation decks promise an extraordinary journey to the Top, providing unforgettable vistas of New York City’s majestic skyline.
The Edge vs Top of the Rock Night View
The Edge NYC View at Night
The Edge provides a mesmerizing night view of New York City’s lights, showcasing the city’s vibrant energy after dark.
From its sky-high perch, visitors can take in the glimmering cityscape, offering a unique and awe-inspiring perspective of the city that never sleeps.
Top of the Rock at Night
Top of the Rock offers an equally captivating night view of the New York City skyline.
As the sun sets, the city comes alive with a dazzling display of twinkling lights, creating a magical and romantic atmosphere.
Visitors can admire iconic landmarks such as the Empire State Building and Times Square as they shimmer in the darkness, making it a truly unforgettable experience.
Comparison
Both Top of the Rock and The Edge offer spectacular night views of New York City’s illuminated skyline.
Top of the Rock provides a classic and iconic perspective, with its central location offering views of renowned landmarks.
On the other hand, The Edge’s modern setting and unique vantage point deliver a fresh and contemporary experience of the city lights.
Whether you prefer a classic view with historic charm or a modern view with contemporary flair, both observation decks promise to leave you spellbound as you witness the city’s radiant beauty after dark.
The View during Sunset
Top of the Rock Sunset
Top of the Rock offers a breathtaking sunset view over the Hudson River, providing a picture-perfect moment as the sun dips below the horizon.
Visitors can witness the sky painted in a mesmerizing array of warm colors, creating a romantic and magical ambiance.
The sunset views from the outdoor observation decks on the 67th and 69th floors offer a unique perspective of the city’s skyline bathed in golden hues.
The Edge NYC Sunset View
The Edge also provides an equally stunning sunset view, allowing visitors to witness the sun setting over the city from its lofty height.
The glass floor and angled glass walls on the 100th floor offers uninterrupted views of the horizon, making it an exceptional spot to capture the beauty of the sun’s descent and the city’s transformation during golden hour.
Comparison – Best Sunset View in NYC?
The Edge and Top of the Rock offer unforgettable sunset views that showcase New York City’s beauty in a magical light.
Top of the Rock’s outdoor observation decks on lower floors provide a closer view of the Hudson River and Central Park during the sunset.
At the same time, The Edge’s higher vantage point offers an expansive and panoramic view of the skyline.
Whether you choose to witness the sunset from the classic elegance of Top of the Rock or the contemporary luxury of The Edge, both observation decks promise a genuinely fantastic experience that captures the essence of New York City’s mesmerizing sunsets.
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How to Reach The Edge and Top of the Rock
How to Reach the Edge NYC
The Edge is situated atop 30 Hudson Yards on the west side of Manhattan.
Like Top of the Rock, reaching The Edge is straightforward and accessible via public transportation.
Visitors can take the New York City subway and arrive at the 34th Street-Hudson Yards station, a short walk from the observation deck.
Several bus routes also pass through Hudson Yards, providing additional transportation options.
How to Reach Top of the Rock
Top of the Rock is conveniently located in the heart of Manhattan at 30 Rockefeller Plaza.
Getting it is easy and accessible through various modes of transportation.
Visitors can use the New York City subway system and the B, D, F, or M trains to the 47-50 Streets Rockefeller Center station.
Several bus routes also serve the area, making it a convenient choice for locals and tourists.
Comparison
Both The Edge and Top of the Rock are easily reachable by public transportation in Manhattan, making them convenient destinations for visitors to explore.
Top of the Rock’s location in the city’s bustling center at Rockefeller Plaza allows for easy access via various subway lines and buses.
Similarly, The Edge’s location in Hudson Yards provides accessibility through the subway and buses, making it a convenient destination.
Whether you’re a local or a tourist, both observation decks offer seamless access, allowing you to experience the sweeping views of New York City easily.
The Edge vs Top of the Rock Comparison – Height
The Edge NYC Height
The Edge takes visitors to even greater heights, soaring to an astonishing 1,131 feet (345 meters) above street level.
This remarkable height makes The Edge the highest outdoor sky deck in the Western Hemisphere.
Top of the Rock Height
The Top of the Rock stands 850 feet (260 meters) above street level.
This elevation offers visitors breathtaking and expansive views of the New York City skyline from observation decks on the 67th and 69th floors.
Comparison
When it comes to height, the battle of Top of the Rock vs the Edge is won by the Edge, making it the ultimate choice for visitors seeking unparalleled views.
The Edge’s elevation of 1,131 feet offers visitors an even more elevated perspective of the city’s skyline, giving a sense of being on top of the world.
On the other hand, Top of the Rock’s height of 850 feet still provides remarkable views of Manhattan.
Still, it does not reach the extraordinary height achieved by The Edge.
Whether you prefer a high-altitude adventure or want to admire the city from an impressive elevation, both observation decks offer incredible vistas, each with unique heights and perspectives of the magnificent New York City skyline.
The Edge and Top of the Rock are both very popular observatories. Especially during peak seasons tickets sell out quickly. So make sure you book your tickets in advance to save a spot1
Wait Time at these Observatories
Top of the Rock Wait Time
Top of the Rock generally experiences moderate crowds, especially during peak hours and busy tourist seasons.
However, the wait times are usually manageable, and visitors can plan their visit strategically by choosing less busy times or booking tickets in advance to minimize waiting.
Wait Time at the Edge NYC
Due to its immense popularity and being one of the newest attractions in the city, The Edge can have longer wait times, especially during peak tourist seasons.
To ensure a smoother experience and avoid disappointment, booking tickets in advance or visiting during less busy hours is highly recommended.
Comparison
In terms of wait time, Top of the Rock generally offers a more manageable experience with moderate crowds.
However, The Edge’s popularity as the highest outdoor sky deck in the Western Hemisphere can lead to longer wait times, especially during peak periods.
To make the most of your visit to The Edge, plan, book tickets in advance, or visit during less busy hours.
Both observation decks promise incredible views, but being prepared for wait times can enhance your overall experience and ensure ample time to enjoy the stunning vistas without unnecessary delays.
FAQs
Is Edge or Top of the Rock better?
Both the observation decks offer great views, so in the battle of the Edge vs Top of the Rock which one should you visit? If you want to get the city views from the highest point accessible visit the Edge. If you want to have a classic historical experience with great view you should visit Top of the Rock.
What are The Edge and Top of the Rock, and where are they located in New York City?
The Edge and Top of the Rock are must-visit observation decks in New York City, offering breathtaking views of the city’s skyline. The Edge is situated atop 30 Hudson Yards on the west side of Manhattan. At the same time, Top of the Rock is perched at 30 Rockefeller Plaza in the heart of Manhattan.
Which observation deck offers a higher vantage point, The Edge or Top of the Rock?
The Edge provides a higher vantage point, soaring to an astonishing 1,131 feet (345 meters) above street level, making it the highest outdoor sky deck in the Western Hemisphere. In contrast, Top of the Rock stands 850 feet (260 meters) above street level.
What unique features does The Edge have, and how do they differ from Top of the Rock’s features?
The Edge offers unique features such as the “Skyline Steps,” a glass floor extending from the building, and the highest outdoor sky deck in the Western Hemisphere. Top of the Rock, on the other hand, is known for its stunning Art Deco architecture, three observation decks at different heights, and offering a Rockefeller Center tour.
Which observation deck provides the best views of the New York City skyline at night?
Both The Edge and Top of the Rock offer stunning night views of the New York City skyline. The Edge allows visitors to marvel at the city’s vibrant energy after dark. At the same time, Top of the Rock showcases iconic landmarks like the Empire State Building and Times Square shimmering in the darkness.
What are the opening hours of The Edge and Top of the Rock?
The Edge is open daily from 10:00 AM to midnight, while Top of the Rock welcomes visitors daily from 8:00 AM to midnight. Both observation decks provide extended operating hours, accommodating various schedules.
Can I buy tickets for The Edge and Top of the Rock online?
Yes, visitors can purchase tickets for both The Edge and Top of the Rock online, offering convenience and the opportunity to plan their visit.
How can I reach The Edge and Top of the Rock using public transportation?
The Edge and Top of the Rock are easily accessible via public transportation. Visitors can take the New York City subway and arrive at the nearest stations to both observatories. The Edge is near the 34th Street-Hudson Yards station, while Top of the Rock is near the 47-50 Street Rockefeller Center station.
Do either observation decks have dining options or places to grab a snack?
Yes, both The Edge and Top of the Rock offer dining options and places to grab a snack, allowing visitors to enjoy refreshments while enjoying the New York City skyline views.
What is the average time to access the observation decks during peak tourist seasons?
During peak tourist seasons, The Edge may experience longer wait times due to its immense popularity as one of the newest attractions in the city. Visitors can consider booking tickets in advance or visiting during less busy hours to minimize waiting.
Can I visit The Edge and Top of the Rock in one day?
Yes, visiting The Edge and Top of the Rock in one day is possible, depending on your schedule and preferences. Top of the Rock is just a 12-minute drive from The Edge. Considering the time needed to experience each observation deck fully, visitors may want to plan accordingly to make the most of their visit.
Is photography allowed at The Edge and Top of the Rock?
Yes, photography is generally allowed at both observation decks, allowing visitors to capture their memorable experiences and stunning city views at two top NYC landmarks.
Featured Image: Nyctourism.com, Latimes.com