The Inside Scoop: Best Free Viewpoints in NYC

New York City Skyline
New York City Skyline. Photo by Siegfried Poepperl on Unsplash

Is there any skyline more iconic than the New York skyline? Catching beautiful views of the city is a must for any New York visit. But locals know you don’t need to pay $50 and stand in long lines just to see the sunset over the skyscrapers. Here are 3 beautiful viewpoints that are completely free. 

Staten Island and IKEA Ferries

Both the Staten Island and IKEA ferries provide a free and scenic way to get a close-up view of the Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, and the Manhattan skyline. Check the schedule beforehand, but both run regularly and dock from Lower Manhattan, near Wall Street. 

DUMBO (Down Under the Manhattan Bridge Overpass)

DUMBO is a trendy neighborhood in Brooklyn known for its cobblestone streets and stunning views of Manhattan. Head to the area under the Manhattan Bridge for some of the most iconic photo spots, with the bridge framing the cityscape perfectly.

The Met Cloisters

For a less touristy experience, consider visiting The Met Cloisters. The Cloisters are a branch of the Metropolitan Museum of Art which showcases the art, architecture, and gardens of medieval Europe. From Fort Tryon Park you’ll have a beautiful view of the Hudson River and the George Washington Bridge.