The Best Iconic Skyscrapers to Visit in New York City

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From Impressive Architecture to Breathtaking Views - These are the Skyscrapers of NYC

The many blocks of New York City are filled with high rise buildings that seem to touch the sky. There are several that spent years at the top of the world's tallest buildings list. Some are notable for their impressive architecture and are others offer observation decks that look out over this beautiful city. These are the skyscrapers of New York.
Edge Observation Deck
Edge Observation Deck
Located at Hudson Yards, this viewpoint sticks out from the 100th floor of one of the tallest buildings in New York, and offers views of all of Manhattan, as well as a glass floor area so you can look down at the streets below (if you have the courage). Enter on the 4th floor of the shops and restaurants at Hudson Yards opposite of the Vessel. And don't forget your camera!
Hudson Boulevard at Hudson Yards, Manhattan, New York City, New York
Website
The Rockefeller Center
The Rockefeller Center
New York's iconic Rockefeller Center is a must-see for visitors. It is a large complex that includes 19 commercial buildings and spreads out over 22 acres in Midtown Manhattan. There's an observation deck called Top of the Rock that offers beautiful views from a tower that stands 70 floors high. It has been the home of NBC Studios since 1933 and is open for public tours.

The Rockefeller Center is a quintessential destination during the Christmas season when the iconic Christmas tree is lit and the ice skating rink is opened in the plaza.
45 Rockefeller Plaza, New York, NY, 10111
Website
New York City has plenty more to offer, so see also our other articles: The Best Parks, Gardens, and Things to Do Outdoors in New York City and Famous Squares and Plazas to Visit in New York City.
One World Observatory
One World Observatory
One World Observatory is located at the top of the One World Trade Center building. It is an observation deck that makes up the 100, 101, and 102nd floors, 1776 feet above the city. The glass building is a beautiful sight and the elevator ride to the top offers a changing scene of how New York City has changed and grown over the years.
NYC, New York, 10048
Website
The Flatiron Building
The Flatiron Building
This triangular shaped building received its name because it looks like an iron. The surrounding area is named the Flatiron District, after this iconic building.
Empire State Building
Empire State Building
The iconic Empire State Building has long been a symbol of New York City. It's one of the most famous skyscrapers in the world and the Art-Deco tower has been called one of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World by the American Society of Civil Engineers. The Empire State Building was the tallest building in the world from 1931 to 1970 and, at 102 stories, it is currently the 2nd tallest in New York City.

A highlight for many visitors to New York is the ride and view from the Top Deck observatory, which offers breathtaking views in every direction.
20 W 34th St, New York, NY, 10001
Website
The Chrysler Building
The Chrysler Building
This Art-Deco skyscraper continues to be considered one of the New York City's greatest sites. It has 77 floors and a beautiful lobby that is open to the public, although there is no public observation deck.
405 Lexington Ave, New York, NY, 10174
40 Wall Street
This is a 71 floor tower that has also been called the Trump Building and the Bank of Manhattan Building. It opened in 1930 and many New York City walking tours include this skyscraper. Donald Trump's The Apprentice was also filmed here.
Gehry New York
This is the tallest all-residential building in North America. It has 900 rental units and stands 76 stories tall. While the building is closed to the public, it is included in many walking tours of Lower Manhattan and it can be seen as you cross the Brooklyn Bridge.
8 Spruce Street Tower
If you're looking for more information about New York City, read The Best Neighborhoods in Manhattan and A Fashion-Lovers Guide To New York City.
Metropolitan Life Tower
Don't confuse this building with the MetLife Building at Grand Central Terminal. This tower faces Madison Square Park and has 50 floors. A premiere feature of the tower is the clocks on all fours sides of the tower. Each clock has a face that's 27 feet and each number is four feet tall.
New York Life Building
This Gothic Revival style building serves as the headquarters for the New York Life Insurance Company.
Trump Tower
This 58 story tower serves as the central headquarters for The Trump Organization.
725 5th Ave, New York, NY, 10022
Website
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Prices for activities, things to do, and tours range from $33 to $200. The average cost for a tour or tickets is $122. A few of the best options are below.

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