New York Photo Gallery - One World Observatory

While there are number of observation decks in various parts of Manhattan, the newly-built Freedom Tower's One World Observatory is iconic, especially since I had visited the old World Trade Center's observation deck before 9/11. The $35 general admission is a bit pricey to get to the 102/F though, so look around for discount codes and pre-purchase your ticket.

There are a number of experiences available at the tower, but all I wanted was just the view, plain and simple.

Looking north, the Midtown skyline shone against the blue sky, bounded by the Hudson and East Rivers.

The Hudson Yards redevelopment is creating a miniature skyline already.

The Midtown skyline has significantly changed with many new pencil towers appearing in recent years. The Empire State Building no longer dominates the city.

Both the Brooklyn and Manhattan Bridges have pedestrian walkways and offer a wonderful photo-taking experience, in addition to getting good exercise.

Brooklyn is also getting some attention as well, being so close to the offices downtown and hence a convenient residential area.

As I visited in the morning, the sunlight was against me looking east towards Lower Manhattan.

Although space is limited and sells at a premium on Manhattan, there is plenty of land west of the Hudson in New Jersey. Yet, the cityscape isn't so dense over there despite a short train ride away.

The Statue of Liberty looks tiny from up here.

The big price tag was worth it!