Here’s the best way to see Manhattanhenge tonight
Manhattanhenge is that special time every summer when the sunset perfectly aligns with Manhattan’s grid, quite literally looking like it’s tucked between the city’s skyscrapers. The phenomenon typically happens twice a year—a couple of times at end of May and again in mid-July—but the weather doesn’t always cooperate.
Luckily for us, tonight’s celestial event will be met with clear skies.
Here’s everything you need to know to fully enjoy the unique (and downright stunning!) occurrence.
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Where is the best place to catch Manhattanhenge?
The best streets to catch the sunset are 14th, 23rd, 34th, 42nd and 57th Streets, according to Neil deGrasse Tyson, since they are wider and are also home to some of the city’s most iconic buildings, which make for better pictures.
The top views are going to be towards the eastern side of the island.
Other popular places to catch Manhattanhenge include the Tudor City Overpass, which has views of the Chrysler Building, and Hunter’s Point South Park in Long Island City, Queens. Another good place to catch it is the Park Avenue Viaduct near Grand Central Station, per the New York Times.
These are all suggestions, of course. Any cross street with a clear view of the horizon towards New Jersey will be just fine, so don’t be afraid to explore other options.
What is the best time to see Manhattanhenge?
Tonight, Manhattanhenge will reach full effect at 8:13pm, per the American Museum of Natural History.
You’ll probably want to figure out where you’re going to set up shop before then, though, since the peak of the phenomenon only happens for a few minutes and you don’t want to be scrambling to find a good photo op while it’s happening.
What is the weather like tonight for Manhattanhenge?
If you’re planning to go see Manhattanhenge, you should probably choose tonight over tomorrow. Tonight’s forecast is giving clear skies in the mid to high 70s, while scattered thunderstorms are expected tomorrow during sunset.