10 places to see the New York skyline

I don’t know about you, but there’s something magical about seeing city skylines from a distance, especially when that city is the one you love so much. And that’s exactly how it is for me, even though I’ve been living here in New York for over 10 years, whenever I see the Manhattan skyline from anywhere, I can’t help but stop and take a thousand photos. That’s why I’ve put together this post with 10 of my favorite places to take photos and admire this incredible sight! Let me know which one is your favorite!

Oh, before I forget…To see more of my day to day life in NYC and get the hottest tips, join my NYC tips Facebook group HERE,  follow me on Instagram (@marthasachser or @blognyandabout) and subscribe to my YouTube channel! And click HERE for my NYC complete guide with step-to-step itineraries!

1- Gantry Plaza State Park

The first one on this list is one of my favorites, Gantry Plaza State Park. It offers an incredibly beautiful sunset and is the perfect spot for a summer day – or any time of the year, just dress warmer in winter because it tends to be quite windy. I’m always there, whether it’s to take photos or have a picnic overlooking the skyline.

2- Roosevelt Island

This small island located in the East River between Queens and Manhattan has history and beautiful landscapes on both sides of the city, Manhattan and Queens. The island has a tranquil and family-friendly atmosphere, quite different from the hustle and bustle of Midtown on the other side of the river. The view becomes even more charming with the Queensborough Bridge connecting Manhattan to Queens. To get there, I recommend taking the Roosevelt Island Tram or the F train (Roosevelt Island stop).

3- Staten Island Ferry

The Staten Island Ferry is free and it’s a great option for those who want views of the city without spending any money. The ferry ride itself is not glamorous, but it’s a great tip for those who want to save. Other ferries that offer beautiful views of the skyline are the NYC Ferry and the Governors Island ferry (seasonal). And of course, there are other boat tours as well that I’ve mentioned here on the blog. Check out other free tours and attractions in New York by clicking HERE!

4 – Exchange Place

Exchange Place is located across the river, in New Jersey, on the other side of the Hudson River, and as you can see, it offers a privileged view of the southern part of the island as well. Despite being in different state, it’s not far or difficult to get to. The most convenient way is to take the Path Train at the World Trade Center and get off at Exchange Place. The trip costs only $2.75. If you’re going in winter, make sure to dress warmly as it can get windy. Actually, I’ll stop repeating this tip since most waterfront locations tend to be windy, so if possible, try to visit during a period of the day with milder temperatures, so you can enjoy the experience to the fullest.

5- Hoboken

Also located in New Jersey, Hoboken is a charming city full of history, and it’s no wonder it has an entire day itinerary in my New York guide. This way, you can make your trip there even more complete by knowing where to go, where to eat, and more. The most convenient way to get there is by taking the Path Train ($2.75) and getting off at Hoboken station.

6- Central Park

Central Park is surrounded by buildings, but despite being in the midst of so much concrete, the park is tranquil and full of nature, almost making us forget that we are in a big city. These are three of my favorite spots to appreciate the architecture of NYC around Central Park: Cat Rock, Sheep Meadow, and Bow Bridge.

7 and 8- Brooklyn Bridge Park/Pier 1 & DUMBO

I placed these in the same category because they are all very close to each other. The photo below (left side) was taken from the fifth floor of Empire Stores. And in the photo on the right, from Pier 1, on the other side of the bridge.

I love this area and I photograph many of my clients’ sessions there with the New York skyline in the background! By the way, if you want to book a photo shoot in New York with me, just DM me at @fotografaemnovayork!

9- Liberty State Park

I visited this park only once when I photographed a maternity session there, but it was love at first sight! The park is located in New Jersey and has a beautiful view of Downtown Manhattan! You can get there by taking the Path Train + Light Rail or the Liberty Landing Ferry but I went by car when I visited the park.

10- Domino Park

Another spot in Brooklyn that you can’t miss. The view itself is not the closest to Manhattan, but the whole experience is delightful and I highly recommended! To get to Domino Park, I recommend taking the NYC Ferry, the experience is really cool and costs only $2.75. By the way, it’s worth mentioning again that you can find all the amazing places to visit, shops, and must-try restaurants in Brooklyn in my New York guide! Click HERE to download the blog’s New York guide and make your trip more complete, affordable, and easy, with the blog’s itinerary that includes step-by-step instructions for all the main areas of NYC!

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What’s inside?

• 16 detailed step-by-step itineraries to explore NYC from morning to evening with all the attractions, shops, spots you can’t miss and restaurants I recommend in each area (organization is key when exploring NYC so don’t worry, I got you!) and much much more. PLUS:
• Travel to and from the airports
• How to use the NYC subway (metro)
• Budget friendly hotels and hostels
• Weather in NYC
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Oh, before I forget…To see more of my day to day life in NYC and get the hottest tips, join my NYC tips Facebook group HERE,  follow me on Instagram (@marthasachser or @blognyandabout) and subscribe to my YouTube channel! And click HERE for my NYC complete guide with step-to-step itineraries!