One of the most unforgettable ways to experience New York is from above, surrounded by the iconic skyline of towering skyscrapers. Whether it’s sipping cocktails at a rooftop bar or soaking in the sights from an observation deck, these elevated spots capture the city at its best.

Many of these locations are pretty relaxed about photography, but it’s always smart to check ahead—especially with rooftop bars, if you plan on bringing a larger camera. And don’t worry if that’s not an option: the views are just as stunning through your phone lens, perfect for Instagram or TikTok.

Edge Observation Deck

📍 30 Hudson Yards, New York, NY (Chelsea)

Soaring 100 stories above the city, Edge is the tallest outdoor sky deck in the Western Hemisphere. With its glass floor, angled walls, and wraparound views, it delivers a thrill like no other. Add in a champagne bar and sweeping, unobstructed panoramas of Manhattan, and you’ve got one of NYC’s most unforgettable vantage points.

Top of the Rock

📍 30 Rockefeller Plaza, New York, NY (Midtown)

When it comes to classic NYC views, Top of the Rock is a must. Unlike the Empire State Building’s deck, this vantage point lets you capture the Empire State itself in all its glory—because what’s a New York skyline without it?

Pro Tip: After soaking in the outdoor views, head inside for striking photo ops framed by the observation deck’s iconic rectangular windows. For the best experience (and fewer crowds), plan your visit on a weekday right at opening time.

The Press Lounge at Ink 48 Hotel

📍 16th Floor, 653 11th Ave, New York, NY (Hell’s Kitchen)

For skyline views with a side of sophistication, The Press Lounge delivers. Perched atop Ink 48 Hotel, this rooftop bar serves up sweeping vistas of the Hudson River to the west and Midtown’s glittering skyscrapers to the east. Come for golden-hour shots of the city, stay for the expertly crafted cocktails and chic atmosphere.

Jimmy at the James

📍 18th Floor, 15 Thompson St, New York, NY (SoHo)

If The Press Lounge is all about Midtown, Jimmy at the James is your go-to for sweeping views of Lower Manhattan. Set in SoHo, this rooftop pairs a sleek, contemporary lounge with a stunning deck overlooking the Freedom Tower. And yes—there’s even a rooftop pool, perfect for a summer dip with a skyline backdrop.

The Roof at PUBLIC Hotel

📍 Top Floor, 215 Chrystie Street, New York, NY (SoHo)

After grabbing your signature escalator shot in PUBLIC Hotel’s lobby, ride up to The Roof for one of the city’s most photogenic skyline views. This chic rooftop blends earthy design details and greenery with sweeping panoramas stretching from Lower Manhattan up to Midtown. Pair the scenery with a cocktail or two, and you’ve got the perfect spot to watch the sun dip behind the skyline.

Capture the City With Intention

New York is visual poetry, but only if you plan well. A rooftop shoot can give you unforgettable frames, but it's the logistics that let you focus on the art.
Look for spaces that offer more than just height. Think access, safety, flexibility, and visual continuity. Whether you're shooting solo or managing a full crew, the goal is the same: creative control, minimal stress.

Need a venue that gets the balance right? Explore rooftop-adjacent creative shoot options at Maxwell Social's Tribeca location and discover spaces built for visionaries.