Experiencing The Edge at night is magical, as New York’s skyline lights up with glowing skyscrapers and shimmering reflections on the majestic Hudson River.
If you’re looking for stunning views, a quieter atmosphere, or a night out with dinner and drinks high above the city, The Edge at Hudson Yards is the perfect spot.
In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know, from the best times to visit to ticket options and tips for making the most of your night visit to The Edge.
What’s ahead
Why Visit The Edge NYC at Night?
As the sun sets, New York’s skyline lights up, creating a breathtaking display of illuminated skyscrapers.
The atmosphere at night is peaceful and relaxed, with fewer crowds compared to the daytime or sunset hours.
A night visit is a great way to avoid the strong sun and hot temperatures that can make daytime visits less comfortable, especially during the summer months.
After dark, the city’s iconic landmarks, such as the Empire State Building, One World Trade Center, Statue of Liberty, Brooklyn Bridge, and Times Square, are beautifully lit, making the experience even more special and providing excellent photo opportunities.
To enhance your visit, you can enjoy drinks at the Edge Champagne Bar on the 100th floor or have dinner at Peak Restaurant, with late-night cocktails available at Peakaboo on the 101st floor.
Note: City Climb is an adrenaline-pumping experience that takes you above The Edge. It requires a separate ticket and is not included with general admission or the Express Pass.
Ticket Options for Night Visits to The Edge
When planning your night visit to The Edge, you can choose from three ticket options: Standard Admission, Flexible Passes, and Express Passes.
While the Standard ticket (a timed ticket) is the cheapest way to enter The Edge at night, the Flexible Pass gives you the convenience of walking in at a time of your choice, the Express Pass helps you skip all the lines all through the day.
Even though the Standard Admission tickets are timed, once you’re on the observation deck, you can stay as long as you like and enjoy the stunning night views at your own pace.
Since nighttime (and morning) visits are generally less crowded than afternoons or sunset hours, we recommend booking a Standard Admission ticket.
It’s the most cost-effective option, and with shorter lines in the evening, you can enter with minimal wait time – making for a smooth and enjoyable experience.
Best Time to Visit The Edge After Dark
During peak season, The Edge remains open till 12 am, providing ample time to experience the stunning nighttime views.
The best time to visit at night during this period is around 8 pm when the sky is fully dark, and the city lights create a spectacular display so that you can take in the breathtaking scenery without feeling rushed.
During the lean season, The Edge is open from 10 am to 10 pm, with the last entry at 9.10 pm, providing a shorter window to enjoy the nighttime views. To make the most of your visit, it’s best to book a 7 pm slot, allowing you plenty of time to relax and enjoy the deck at night.
While sunset attracts large crowds, the observation deck becomes quieter as the evening progresses.
Compare The Edge with other NYC observation decks!
New York City boasts five observation decks, each providing a unique perspective of the skyline. You can compare The Edge with other iconic decks like the Empire State Building, Summit One Vanderbilt, and One World Observatory to determine which view and atmosphere best suit your visit.
What to Expect During a Night Visit
At night, the New York City skyline, with its towering skyscrapers and the Hudson River, reflects the city’s glow, creating a stunning scene resembling a galaxy of stars stretching across the horizon.
Be sure to look out for the Empire State Building, One World Trade Center, Statue of Liberty, Brooklyn Bridge, and the vibrant lights of Times Square. These famous sights shine brightly, making your nighttime visit to The Edge memorable.
The Empire State Building hosts a stunning nightly light show, with its spire glowing in vibrant colors and effects for five minutes every hour from sunset until 2 am. This captivating display can be admired from various spots around the city, including The Edge observation deck, which provides a unique view of the illuminated skyline.
Tips for visiting the Edge at night
Visiting The Edge at night is a magical experience, but a little preparation can make your visit even better. Here are some useful tips to keep in mind:
Watch your step – The observation deck is dimly lit to enhance the beauty of the glowing city skyline. Be mindful of your footing to avoid any accidental trips or stumbles.
Dress for the weather – It can get windy and chilly at night, especially at the outdoor deck. Avoid wearing loose, flowy clothes, and wear warm, layered outfits to stay comfortable.
Warm up with a drink – Head to the champagne bar on the deck, where you can enjoy hot beverages like hot chocolate, coffee, and tea, along with a selection of warm treats.
Dinner and Drinks at The Edge After Dark
Visiting The Edge at night isn’t just about the views – you can also enjoy dining and drinks at Peak Restaurant and Peakaboo on the 101st floor, right above the deck.
Remember that Peak’s food and beverages cannot be brought to the observation deck, however the restaurant itself offers great views.
Peak serves dinner from 5 pm to 10 pm (Sunday to Wednesday) until 10.30 pm (Thursday to Saturday).
For late-night drinks, Peakaboo is open Fridays and Saturdays from 11 pm to 2 am.
On the 100th floor, the Edge Champagne Bar stays open until 11 PM, providing casual drinks and light bites with a view.
Is The Edge NYC Worth Visiting at Night?
The illuminated skyline, shimmering Hudson River, and iconic landmarks like the Empire State Building and Times Square make visiting The Edge at night worthwhile.
With fewer crowds, cooler temperatures, and options for dinner and drinks at Peak Restaurant and The Edge’s Champagne Bar, a night visit offers unforgettable views and a relaxed atmosphere.
Still have questions about The Edge NYC? Check out our FAQs that answer all your potential doubts about the attraction.
