Best time to visit One World Observatory 

Climbing the One World Observatory is always a good idea, but timing is everything. 

The city’s color and the Manhattan lights change throughout the day. What should one do? 

After purchasing One World Observatory tickets, the next step is determining the best time to visit One World Observatory and take in the splendor of the New York skyline.

When it comes time to go up to the observation deck in New York, remember the following depending on when you visit, the season, or the time of day.

The Observation Deck provides panoramic views of New York City’s landmarks, surrounding waterways, and famous skyline.

Best time to go

Are you visiting New York for the first time and want to be amazed by the city’s skyline?    

The best thing to go up to One World Observatory is during the late afternoon.

You will be able to see how the last rays of sunset gradually fade over Manhattan while the darkness gives way to the lighting of the tiny lights that decorate the monuments and buildings.

You will always remember this magical moment! Furthermore, it will allow you to enjoy city views day and night. 

Undoubtedly, it is the best way to cap off an exhausting day of sightseeing in New York before heading out for dinner and resting up for the next day.

Best time of year to visit 

Another best time to visit One World Observatory according to the season is the Summer and Autumn seasons. 

The likelihood of rain is lower, the days have more hours of sunlight, and the sunrise is usually straightforward. 

However, if you visit New York during the cold and windy season or if a rainy day occurs, be reassured because the skyscraper’s observation deck is covered.

Instead of purchasing tickets to the One World Observatory months in advance, purchase them one or two weeks before your trip to New York.

This allows you to check the weather forecast and choose a day with clear skies and plenty of sunshine to enjoy the city views.

Best time to go to avoid crowds

The One World Observatory is most crowded between 4 and 5 pm, when visitors arrive intending to watch the sunset and the city lights turn on.

We recommend getting up early and going to the observation deck early (around 8 or 9 am), as the views of the sky and New York at first light are also breathtaking. 

Even if seeing the city lit up at night isn’t your thing, you won’t have to dodge tourists in your photos. 

You can always enjoy the illuminated skyline from nearby locations, such as the Brooklyn Bridge, at dusk.

Plus, if you go up to the observation deck in the morning, you’ll have the rest of the day free to explore Ground Zero and the rest of New York City and make other plans on your bucket list. 

For example, you could have lunch at One Dine restaurant and then go deeper into the Financial District or visit the 9/11 Memorial and Museum.

The best time for a photograph 

Enjoying New York from the heights is another world, a unique sensation you will undoubtedly want to record with your camera for posterity. 

If you are new to photography, playing it safe and using daylight to capture the New York skyline is best. The monuments that can be seen from here are:

• The skyline of downtown Manhattan
• Hudson River 
• Statue of Liberty
• Brooklyn Bridge 
• East River 
• Manhattan Bridge 
• Empire State Building

The morning light will help you avoid out-of-focus images, and if you use an APP on your phone, you will undoubtedly get heart-stopping photos.

Another option is to visit the One World Observatory just before sunset to capture the beautiful play of orange, pink, and blue lights in the New York sunset sky.

Best time of day to visit One World Observatory with children

If you’re visiting One World Observatory with your family, the best time to visit One World Observatory is early morning.

At that time, the kids will have more energy and be more awake to this fantastic viewpoint in New York. 

You will also avoid the crowds that form in the afternoon, which can make the kids nervous.

Most visitors to the One World Observatory stay for about an hour, though tickets do not specify a time limit. 

However, it is an ideal time to do this activity with children because they will have a great time without becoming overtired.

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Featured Image: Gustavo Nava / 500px