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These are the best places to watch Manhattanhenge in NYC today

Where (and when) to catch NYC’s most dazzling sunset moment of the summer this weekend

Laura Ratliff
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Laura Ratliff
New Yorkers taking pictures of Manhattanhenge
Shutterstock | New Yorkers taking pictures of Manhattanhenge
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Sunset hits different in New York—but twice a year, it hits just right. We’re talking about Manhattanhenge, the magical moment when the setting sun aligns perfectly with Manhattan’s east-west street grid, turning the city into a cinematic light tunnel of gold. This rare celestial show returns for its second round this year on today, July 11 (full sun) and tomorrow, July 12 (half sun) and, yes, it’s worth elbowing your way to the front of the crowd for that perfect shot.

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Named by none other than Neil deGrasse Tyson, Manhattanhenge is NYC’s answer to the summer solstice at Stonehenge—only with more cab horns and fewer druids. Want to catch the glow? Aim to be in position by 8:15 p.m. on both nights and look west across the avenues.

The best places to watch Manhattanhenge in NYC on July 11 and 12:

  • 42nd Street: The classic shot. Chrysler Building to one side, Madame Tussauds to the other, and the blazing sun smack in the middle. Bring patience and a crowd-tolerant attitude.
  • 34th Street: A favorite for a reason, since the Empire State Building makes a strong cameo if you frame it right. Bonus points if you’re shooting from Park Avenue or further east.
  • 57th Street: Here you have a wide street and clean sightlines—just be sure to stand on the west side of Madison to avoid a glass monstrosity blocking your shot.
  • 14th Street: Less crowded, still dramatic. Snap it near Tenth Avenue for a High Line silhouette moment.
  • Tudor City Overpass (at 42nd Street and 1st Avenue): One of the most photogenic (and popular) perches. Come early for this one.
  • Hunter’s Point South Park, Long Island City: For a panoramic, lower-stress view, head across the river. LIC offers a full-frontal view of Manhattanhenge with skyline drama and more breathing room.

A few pro tips: Turn off your flash, resist the zoom and skip the filters. Mother Nature’s lighting is doing the heavy lifting. Oh, and don’t look directly at the sun—your retinas will thank you. Manhattanhenge happens only four times a year (twice in May and twice in July) so don’t miss your shot. Literally.

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