The Manhattan skyline might be one of the most recognizable views in the world, with its soaring skyscrapers and iconic spires. In the fall, when the burnished number of changing leaves contrasts the modish chrome of the city’s buildings, the views are especially stunning.

Whether you are taking in the city from a rooftop bar, a riverside park, or an awe-inspiringly high observation deck, Manhattan views are the stuff of dreams. From various angles, high and low, the city changes – just as the leaves do, cast in a new, sun-dappled light.

Continue reading to discover the 12 most beautiful views in Manhattan this fall.

 

1. Manhattan Bridge


Connecting Lower Manhattan to downtown Brooklyn, the Manhattan Bridge offers sweeping vistas of the city. As you walk along its more than 6,800 feet, you will see the calm tides of the East River, buffeted by autumn leaves, as well as iconic buildings such as the UN Headquarters and the Central Park Tower.

 

 

2. Cantor Roof Garden at the Met


One of the most elegant locations on this list, with lush views of Central Park and beyond, the Cantor Roof Garden is a must-visit. This garden-cum-bar is located on the top floor of the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Set against a phantasmagoric fall sunset, it is perfect for an afternoon cocktail after a day at the museum.

 

3. Tudor City Bridge


A slightly lesser-known scenic overlook, the Tudor City Bridge looks out over 42nd Street, with a direct view of the Chrysler Building. It offers a celebrated perspective of New York City’s bustling streets, and – on certain dates – a sunset within the grid of the city (popularly known as Manhattanhenge).

 

 

4. The High Line


One of the city’s most unique public parks, The High Line winds through the west side of Manhattan. It was formerly an elevated railway track; now, it is part garden, part community space, and part walking path. The park cuts across some of the best views of Manhattan: Hudson Yards, Chelsea Piers, the Hudson River, and much more.


5. Edge NYC


100 stories above the ground in Hudson Yards, New York City’s newest neighborhood on Manhattan’s West Side, Edge is truly one-of-a-kind. The sky deck juts out into the city, in a marvel of engineering and architecture. During a visit to Edge, you can become one with the sky while enjoying a classic panoramic view of New York City.

 

 

6. Empire State Building


One of the most well-known viewpoints on this list, the Empire State Building remains a must-visit destination. With two observation decks on the 86th and 102nd floors, the views from the building are absolutely breathtaking. The top deck boasts floor-to-ceiling windows and 360 degrees of access, offering visitors unforgettably stunning vistas of the city.

 

7. One World Observatory

 

Located at the World Trade Center (also known as the Freedom Tower) in Lower Manhattan, the One World Observatory has views to rival those of the Empire State Building. From its 102nd floors, you can see a spectacular birds-eye cityscape. In addition to the gorgeous view, visitors can enjoy the observatory’s New York-inspired cocktails and gourmet fare at its restaurant and bar. 

 

8. The Press Lounge


One of the world’s best rooftop bars, the Press Lounge is an unparalleled location from sunset onwards. Located in Hell’s Kitchen, this bar is intimate yet chic, dramatic and well-appointed. No reservations are necessary for a visit to the Press Lounge, where you’ll be able to choose from an extensive list of cocktails and wine while enjoying incredible views of Manhattan.

 

9. Central Park (Belvedere Castle)


Central Park is a vast green space sandwiched between the Upper East and the Upper West Sides; many of the park’s meadows and terraces offer beautiful views of the city. However, especially during the romantic Eastern Seaboard fall, the best sights of Central Park can be seen from Belvedere Castle. A miniature castle with an observation deck, it is an iconic lookout spot.

 

10. Daintree


Another rooftop lounge and bar, Daintree is unique for its up-close view of the Empire State Building. Located on top of Hotel Hendricks in Midtown, it is one of the hottest new rooftop bars in the city. It offers a classic cocktail menu with an Australian flair; its sparkling lights are the perfect accent to autumn evenings in the city.


11. Top of the Rock


An observatory on top of Rockefeller Center – hence ‘Top of the Rock,’ this deck offers unobstructed views of everything from Central Park to the World Trade Center to the East and Hudson Rivers. Located in Midtown, the Rockefeller Center and its observation deck are both iconic New York City institutions.


12. The Whitney Museum


Home to beautiful exhibits of American Art, the Whitney Museum also offers stunning views of the city from its terraces. From its vantage point in Lower Manhattan, you can see the area’s brick buildings, the skyscrapers of uptown, and the fall nature hidden in the streets.