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Sunset

Golden Hour at Top of the Rock

Start with a warm drink in the park, catch the sunset from the 70th floor, and end with a quiet walk through Strawberry Fields.

Best time: 15 JanAbout 120 min

Timeline

  1. 15:22

    Le Pain Quotidien

    Grab a coffee and a pastry at Le Pain Quotidien. It is open daily from 7AM to 9PM, so it is ready for you well before the golden light begins.

  2. 16:12

    Top of the Rock Observation Deck

    Walk 19 minutes SSW to the Top of the Rock Observation Deck. The deck is on the 70th floor of the Comcast Building and offers uninterrupted views over Central Park. Arrive here to secure your spot for the sunset.

  3. 16:52

    Top of the Rock Observation Deck

    Watch the sun set toward the WSW. The golden light starts about 16:10, leading into the sunset at 16:52. The view stretches across the city skyline as the light fades.

  4. 17:22

    Strawberry Fields

    Walk 14 minutes NNW to Strawberry Fields. This public art installation is named in memory of John Lennon, who was murdered close by outside his home in the Dakota building. It is a peaceful spot to reflect after the busy observation deck.

Local tip

The walk from the observation deck to Strawberry Fields heads NNW, taking you back into the park. Check the route if you are unfamiliar with the paths.

Check before you go

  • Le Pain Quotidien is open daily 7AM-9PM.
  • Top of the Rock hours vary by season; check current times before you go.

Built from places in the Wikivoyage guide to Manhattan (CC BY-SA 4.0), with open map data from OpenStreetMap contributors (ODbL).

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