Visiting the Edge NYC at Hudson Yards

Last September, I got to visit one New York’s newest observatories, the Edge NYC at Hudson Yards. Known for its spectacular views, New York City has been a top destination for some of the world’s best observatories. The Edge, which opened its doors during the pandemic, offers a suspended outdoor sky deck with 360-degree views. Before visiting, I already knew this sky-high location was unique to other observatories in the city. Always a sucker for a good view, I couldn’t wait to check it out. Here’s my review of the Edge NYC at Hudson Yards.

Edge Hudson Yards Peak New York skyline restaurant — Peak with Priceless NYC Restaurant & Bar on the 101st floor of Hudson Yards

Visiting the Edge NYC at Hudson Yards

One adult admission ticket to the Edge NYC is priced at $50USD. It’s definitely on the higher end as far observatories go but luckily, there’s a loophole. You can book a reservation at the Peak with Priceless NYC Restaurant & Bar to get FREE admission instead. When dining at their panoramic restaurant, you get automatic access to the sky deck afterwards. For me, this was a win-win. Dining at the restaurant is also on the higher end but if I’m paying that much, I would much rather get a fancy meal out of it.

Where to Dine

Sitting 101 floors up from Manhattan, the Peak with Priceless Restaurant & Bar was nothing short of gorgeous. It was the perfect spot to dine before heading to the observatory. Complete with floor to ceiling windows wrapping around the entirety of the restaurant and a stellar view of New York City down below, it was breathtaking. I made a late lunch reservation so I could pace myself until sunset. They fortunately seated me by the windows with the best view of the World Trade Centre while I dined. My heart was in awe the entire time.

Edge Hudson Yards Peak New York skyline restaurant burger — Black hawk brisket burger from the Peak with Priceless Restaurant & Bar

Offering only a prix-fixe menu, I opted for the two-course dining option with a choice of an entrée and an appetizer or dessert. I went with the dessert and ordered a tea on the side. As for my main course, I ordered the black hawk brisket burger that came with a double patty, cheddar cheese and smoked bacon. It was honestly one of the best burgers I’ve had in a long time. The meat was juicy and tender, and seasoned perfectly with a side of fresh and crispy fries. The whole meal including tip cost me a pretty penny at $99USD, but I’d like to think it was a good investment for a treat-myself-kinda-day.

For dessert, I had the most lavish-looking crunchy toast with chocolate cremeaux and butterscotch ice cream. It was delicious as well but the portion size was a way too large for one person. I’d definitely recommend choosing this one to share with a date. However, it was the most unique-sounding item on the dessert menu so I had to give it a try.

I really enjoyed my entire experience at the Peak. It was great to visit during the day as opposed to peak time at night. For one, there was less traffic so it was more peaceful and two, it would’ve been a shame to miss out on the daytime views from up here. Special thanks to my server, Ben who was my photographer that day.

Edge Hudson Yards Peak New York skyline observatory style — View from the Peak with Priceless Restaurant & Bar at Hudson Yards

What to Expect

After enjoying the view from atop, I ventured to get a closer look down at the Edge down below. Only one floor down from the restaurant, there was easy access to the sky deck making the entire process seamless. I must say the view from the Peak Restaurant is very spectacular, with its wider angle and higher floor viewing. However, being at the Edge, you got to marvel at New York City outdoors while being sky-high. I spent four hours there just soaking it all in.

I used to think the Empire State Building had the best view of New York City until I came to the Edge NYC at Hudson Yards. Known as the highest sky deck in the Western Hemisphere standing at 100 stories, it’s the only structure that’s suspended over the city. I felt as though I was floating on top of Manhattan, complete with 360-degrees views while peeking the Hudson River to the west.

What made it extra special was that you got to experience this outdoors. Most observatories are only indoors, which IMHO never gives you the full viewing experience. There was also an elevated seating area exclusive to those who purchased drinks at the outdoor bar. I didn’t drink so I didn’t get access to it but the view extended one floor up – perfect for an even grander view of the city.

Aside from the wraparound glass windows, there was also a small glass floor viewing area. For those looking for a small thrill, make sure to check it out. I did a couple walks over it while snapping some quick pics of the streets down below. The Edge at Hudson Yards was quite spacious with plenty of room for everyone to move about and take their photos. I never once felt overcrowded or irritated by the amount of people that were there.

This day, I wore my very comfy pair of tan block-heeled sandals with a matching coloured miniskirt. The weather was perfect when I visited, which meant no need for layers. It made for the perfect summer’s day outfit against the backdrop of the city.

The only thing that was a bit of a bummer was the banned used of tripods while visiting the Edge NYC at Hudson Yards. As soon as I set mine up, I was asked to dismantle it. It was apparently a safety hazard for guests who may trip on it. I was quite disappointed as I’d never experienced this at any other tourist attraction. As a solo traveler, a tripod is a must for documenting your trip. Fortunately, I found plenty of guests who were more than willing to help me take photos. That and I took plenty of fire selfies by the end of my visit so not all was lost.

Wearing: Wilfred crop top | Gold layered necklace

Why Visit the Edge NYC?

Something really unique about the Edge compared to other observatories were the slanted glass windows throughout. Slanted outwards, I couldn’t help but feel as though I was suspended over New York City. It only added to the spectacular-ness of the setting. I snapped photos from all viewing angles but the view of the World Trade Centre was by far my favourite. With the beautiful view of the Hudson River to the West, it reminded me why I love New York City so much.

I paired my ombré mini skirt with a v-neck wraparound crop top for an effortless summery look. I finished the outfit with layered gold jewelry and bold hoop earrings. It was a simple look for a day out in NYC, easily elevated with some statement accessories.

Wearing: Wraparound miniskirt | Heeled sandals | Hoop earrings

Edge Hudson Yards Peak New York skyline observatory sunset — Sunset hour over New York City from the Edge NYC

As mentioned earlier, I booked a late lunch reservation at the Peak so I could buy some time before sunset. All later reservation times were already taken so that was my best bet to witness golden hour at the Edge. After four dedicated hours of taking countless photos of New York City, I finally made it. I stayed long enough to slowly watch the colours in the sky turn into the prettiest shades of pastel. The city had simply turned into magic with New York looking like a beautiful dreamscape.

It was incredibly hard to leave this place. Make sure to stay until the sun goes down and not any sooner though, or else your visit will be incomplete. Everyone also have the same idea as the place got super crowded during sunset. I almost had to fight for a spot near the window with the amount of people surrounding me, but it was so worth it.

For anyone looking to visit the Edge NYC at Hudson Yards, I’d highly recommend coming midday to dine at the Peak with Priceless Restaurant & Bar before heading to the observatory. This will give yourself enough time to eat before sunset hour, as well as get FREE admission to the Edge. I would’ve stayed into the night to see all the glittering lights. Looks like I’ll have to save that for my next visit. I absolutely loved it here and I’d come back again and again if I could!