Empire State Building. The best observation decks in NYC are ones that offer a bit of history, and few are more well-known than the Empire State Building observation deck.

In 2023, the choice of observation deck was often a battle between the "classics" and the "moderns." Summit One Vanderbilt became the standout choice for many due to its immersive art installations, mirrored rooms, and panoramic views of the Chrysler Building. It offered a multi-sensory experience that felt more like a gallery than just a viewpoint. For those seeking the most iconic, timeless view of the Empire State Building, Top of the Rock remained the gold standard because its open-air decks provide an unobstructed "front-row seat" to the Midtown skyline. The Edge at Hudson Yards appealed to thrill-seekers with its glass floor and outdoor sky deck that juts out 100 feet into the air. Meanwhile, One World Observatory provided the highest vantage point in the city and a powerful historical context. While the Empire State Building itself is the most famous, it is often better to look at it from another deck rather than be inside it, though its 102nd-floor renovation has kept it highly competitive for those wanting the traditional "King Kong" experience.