If you choose New York as your vacation destination (landing at one of three airports: JFK, La Guardia, or Newark), don’t limit yourself to following the “usual” itineraries. New York’s great monuments are certainly worth seeing, but to avoid getting stuck in the endless lines of mass tourism, find an “alternative” and special way to admire this city. An alternative that’s all yours. For example, have you ever thought about taking a tour of New York… from above? Here are some stops on a truly spectacular sightseeing tour, during which the great metropolis will be right beneath your feet! Study them carefully, as athletic ability is often required to complete the tour, and not all stops have an elevator.
Empire State Building: the classic “postcard” from above
Standing 443 meters high, with 102 total floors, this skyscraper built in the 1930s is one of New York’s enduring symbols. Since the 1950s, it has been a symbol of “postcards from above.” In fact, you can visit the observation deck, allowing you to take stunning photos of the city below. Climbing the Empire State Building is actually part of the classic New York tour. But if you include it in an itinerary that will literally take you soaring over the city… then it becomes the first of a series of breathtaking steps.
Tickets can be purchased on site, by patiently waiting in line, or online through various apps that also offer discounts and “privileged passes,” depending on the number and price.
Statue of Liberty: from the Crown to the sea
Since it was transported in pieces from France in 1870, the Statue of Liberty—then built on the tip of Liberty Island in New York—has become the true face of the “Big Apple.” It represents not only the city, but the entire nation of the United States and the values its people embrace. “Lady Liberty,” as it is also known, was the welcome to the many migrants when they landed on American shores.
Today, this enormous bronze statue (93 meters) is a monument of global importance. And because it is empty inside, you can climb it to the top. Tourists can look out either from the top of the pedestal, about 50 meters above street level, or from the statue’s crown. The view extends from the skyscraper-filled coastline to the sea, with arriving ships, making for a truly complete panorama.
To secure a ticket to the Statue of Liberty, you better book well in advance (meaning: months!) at the dedicated website: https://www.statueoflibertytickets.com/ , but don’t forget that to reach the top, you’ll need to climb 350 steps inside a metal structure that’s cold in winter and hot in summer.
Hudson Yards Edge: suspended in the air
One of the latest additions to New York’s panoramic views is the rooftop terrace of the skyscraper located at 30 Hudson Yards. Called “The Edge,” the rooftop terrace features glass panels that allow you to see the entire space around you. You’ll be 1,150 feet in the air, with the whole New York skyline at your feet, barely separated from the view by a single pane of transparent glass! A section of the floor is also transparent—made of thick, shatterproof glass—and you’ll feel like you’re walking on air, above the rooftops and spires of the metropolis!
Tickets can be purchased on-site or at The Edge’s official website: https://www.edgenyc.com/get-tickets/.
Top of the Rock
At the top of one of the famous Rockefeller Center buildings, you can both eat and admire the view from the Top of the Rock terrace (where “Rock” actually stands for “Rockefeller” ). Here too, the terrace is surrounded by glass railings that make you feel suspended in mid-air. Adding to the thrill, a rotating seat raises just enough to allow you to admire the 360-degree view of the city while remaining safe.
Tickets and restaurant reservations are available on the official Rockefeller Center website: https://www.rockefellercenter.com, as well as at kiosks located along the surrounding streets.
One World Observatory: where the towers once stood
Where the Twin Towers once stood, today stands the beautiful and proud One World Trade Center (Freedom Tower). You’ll be on the one hundredth floor, on a terrace completely open to the New York skyline.
To add to the thrill, try walking on the floor of the Sky Portal, a 4-meter-diameter disc that lets you “fly” over the city, aided by real-time video. On the terrace of the One World Observatory, you can enjoy delicious cocktails with a sunset view!
There are several apps and ways to book tickets for the observatory. Check with your hotel or tour operator to find the best solution for your needs.
