The Edge NYC and 29 Other Amazing Observation Decks, Ranked by Height
/granite-web-prod/6c/38/6c386bb981434960b9b840c9aa60da9a.jpeg)
Seeing the world from new heights always brings about new perspectives. By climbing high to one of the tallest observation decks in the world, you can bet you’ll be in awe of your surroundings below.
From platforms jutting out of national park cliffs to multilevel decks featuring revolving panoramic views of an urban oasis, we ranked 29 amazing observation decks by height to inspire you to take your adventures to the next level.
29. Coiling Dragon Cliff
/granite-web-prod/15/e2/15e2e26ea31f45af8411218360e19d24.jpeg)
Location: Zhangjiajie, China
Observation deck height: 590 feet
Visit:Coiling Dragon Cliff
Why Coiling Dragon Cliff is one of the best: An observation deck like no other, Tianmen Skywalk, or “heavenly gate,” is located 4,600 feet up the side of Tianmen Mountain and hovers 590 feet above the ground in the Zhangjiajie National Forest Park. The observation deck features a stomach-turning, crystal-clear glass walkway that winds 99 times around vertical cliffs on the mountain.
28. Skywalk at Sky Tower
/granite-web-prod/60/d8/60d8141db75540028c13318406a545af.jpeg)
Location: Auckland, New Zealand
Observation deck height: 630 feet
Visit:Skywalk at Sky Tower
Why Skywalk at Sky Tower is one of the best: Located in the magnificent Sky Tower, a 1,076-foot-high structure, the observation deck takes you 610 feet up for panoramic views of Auckland. Enjoy a glimpse of iconic landmarks, 63 volcanoes and other historical locations within the greater Tamaki Makaurau area. Thrill-seekers can leap off the tower, falling 302 feet straight down via the Skyjump (base jumping by wire) or strap into a full body harness and walk around the tower’s outside ring 630 feet up.
27. Berlin TV Tower Observation Deck
/granite-web-prod/72/ad/72adb125b723473bb8be5f2a73b3d3ea.jpeg)
Location: Berlin, Germany
Observation deck height: 666 feet
Visit:Berlin TV Tower Observation Deck
Why Berlin TV Tower Observation Deck is one of the best: Centrally located in Berlin Mitte, the Berlin TV Tower’s observation deck reveals 360-degree panoramic views over the skyline of Germany’s capital city. The indoor observation deck, which hovers 666 feet above the city, offers a revolving restaurant and bar as well.
26. Grand Canyon Skywalk
/granite-web-prod/a2/c4/a2c4b2fb8f9e4893bcc79da922cb3da4.jpeg)
Location: Peach Springs, Arizona
Observation deck height: 720 feet
Visit:Grand Canyon Skywalk
Why Grand Canyon Skywalk is one of the best: As if the Grand Canyon isn’t mesmerizing enough, it also has a commanding observation deck. The Grand Canyon Skywalk is a glass-floored, 10-foot wide, horseshoe-shaped walkway. Here, visitors are given unparalleled views of one of the world's Seven Natural Wonders, specifically overlooking Grand Canyon West.
25. Central Radio & TV Tower Observation Deck
/granite-web-prod/7f/32/7f3284ca19464437bb3b28edced5ff2a.jpeg)
Location: Beijing, China
Observation deck height: 781 feet
Visit:Central Radio & TV Tower
Why Central Radio & TV Tower is one of the best: The Chinese broadcasting tower is known for its annual race to the top of the tower, involving two laps around the base followed by a climb of the 1,484 steps leading up to the deck. The tower features a noteworthy revolving restaurant as well at the observation level, where visitors can take in the panoramic views of the city.
24. The View from The Shard
/granite-web-prod/24/6d/246de34e3727437bb4ca5de73de4006a.jpeg)
Location: London, United Kingdom
Observation deck height: 801 feet
Visit:The View From The Shard
Why The View from The Shard is one of the best: You won’t find a better view in London than at The Shard, a 72-story, glass-clad pyramidal tower. Shoot up to the 68th floor in 60 seconds, then head to the 69th floor for panoramic views of the capital while sipping on Champagne. Finally, head to the 72nd floor, where an open-air observation deck offers a breath of fresh air 801 feet above the city.
23. Top of the Rock
/granite-web-prod/8b/52/8b5264a4f1974f00910910f66a79c34b.jpeg)
Location: New York, New York
Observation deck height: 850 feet
Visit:Top of the Rock
Why Top of the Rock is one of the best: Enjoy a bird’s eye view of the Big Apple from the Top of the Rock Observation Deck, located atop the Comcast Building in Rockefeller Center Plaza. The highest point of the multilevel observation deck is the 70th Floor Open Air Roof Deck. The deck has no metal or glass enclosures, making it a perfect place to take in the skyline and snap some crystal-clear photos.
22. SkyPoint Observation Deck
/granite-web-prod/11/82/11829c56e2a84d1b971d85c68e4036d5.jpeg)
Location: Surfers Paradise, Australia
Observation deck height: 886 feet
Visit:SkyPoint Observation Deck
Why SkyPoint Observation Deck is one of the best: The Gold Coast’s highest attraction, SkyPoint Observation Deck can be found on the 77th level of the iconic Q1 building. Hovering a lofty 886 feet above sea level, the deck showcases 360-degree views of the glittering, golden beaches, sweeping city skyline and lush greenery of the Gold Coast region. Enjoy the views while dining at the Bistro+Bar.
21. Top of the Eiffel Tower
/granite-web-prod/4c/b2/4cb21ee09d824783aa9a05d0b2e60f84.jpeg)
Location: Paris, France
Observation deck height: 906 feet
Visit:Top of the Eiffel Tower
Why Top of the Eiffel Tower is one of the best: Paris has a way of making you feel like you’re on top of the world, and you’ll really feel that vibe with a climb up the Eiffel Tower. Glass-walled lifts zip you up 906 feet, where unrivaled views of the City of Lights await. The observation deck consists of an indoor and outdoor space, along with a Champagne bar, which feels fitting for the glamor of the city.
20. KL Tower Observation Deck
/granite-web-prod/9f/c4/9fc4df54225f4b3c991e3efe4249f4cb.jpeg)
Location: Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Observation deck height: 984 feet
Visit:KL Tower Observation Deck
Why KL Tower Observation Deck is one of the best: Located 984 feet above Kuala Lumpur, the observation deck within KL Tower features a series of interactive experiences that will have you in awe. The Sky Deck provides an al fresco experience for viewing the city, while the Sky Box takes visitors into a glass box that extends from the Sky Deck.
19. Jin Mao Tower Observation Deck
/granite-web-prod/a5/b2/a5b23fd27775495b8b09ca6579b81e52.jpeg)
Location: Shanghai, China
Observation deck height: 1116 feet
Visit:Jin Mao Tower
Why Jin Mao Tower is one of the best: Take the express elevator up 88 flights in just 45 seconds. Here, you’ll reach the observation deck, where panoramic views of Shanghai await. Another fun attraction is the Skywalk, which gives visitors the opportunity to strap into a harness and walk along a 66-yard-long and 1.3-yard-wide glass skywalk without rails on the 88th floor.
18. Edge NYC
/granite-web-prod/63/1a/631a7eb9f5af4e5f897ed7ea529feb52.jpeg)
Location: New York, New York
Observation deck height: 1,131 feet
Visit:Edge NYC
Why Edge NYC is one of the best: Having opened in early 2020, Edge NYC resides on the 100th floor of the 30 Hudson Yards skyscraper. Begin the journey with an immersive multimedia experience, then head up 1,131 feet to the outdoor sky deck. The deck features 7,500 feet of outdoor space, spanning 80 feet straight out into the air. Frameless glass panels are angled to allow you to feel the thrill of suspension, while the glass floor deck allows you to see the world below in a whole new way.
17. The Strat Observation Deck
/granite-web-prod/5a/8f/5a8f6fd58cd44d89b532f6f4ae711a01.jpeg)
Location: Las Vegas, Nevada
Observation deck height: 1,149 feet
Visit:The Strat Observation Deck
Why The Strat Observation Deck is one of the best: Located on levels 108 and 109 of The Strat Hotel & Casino in Sin City, The Strat Observation Tower is the tallest freestanding observation tower in the U.S. The observation deck is a two-level indoor and outdoor space offering unobstructed views of Las Vegas as well as a bar and thrill-seeking rides, including the Big Shot, Insanity, X-Scream and the controlled free-fall SkyJump.
16. Top Deck Observatory, Empire State Building
/granite-web-prod/3c/d3/3cd36205ce4b4d92a73000a9e9ed39ac.jpeg)
Location: New York, New York
Observation deck height: 1,211 feet
Visit:Top Deck Observatory, Empire State Building
Why Top Deck Observatory, Empire State Building is one of the best: At 102 floors above the Big Apple, the Top Deck Observatory is accessed through a unique glass elevator. Floor-to-ceiling windows in the observatory reveal 360-degree views of the entire city, including some of the most iconic landmarks in the world, like the Statue of Liberty. On clear days, expect to see 80 miles into the distance, with six states visible.
15. Petronas Twin Towers Observation Deck
/granite-web-prod/8c/09/8c092817131441ba86d5f357e6a33e3d.jpeg)
Location: Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Observation deck height: 1,214 feet
Visit:Petronas Twin Towers Observation Deck
Why Petronas Twin Towers Observation Deck is one of the best: Located on the 86th floor of the Petronas Twin Towers, the observation deck puts you up close to the towers’ magnificent spires and the entire city of Kuala Lumpur below. You can also see the Titiwangsa range, KLCC Park and the King’s Palace. Meanwhile, the 86th floor features interactive screens to learn more about the building and scale models that share the latest updates on Kuala Lumpur’s city development in a bird’s eye view.
14. One World Observatory
/granite-web-prod/69/33/69335444e5f74831b07f4d8c879710e5.jpeg)
Location: New York, New York
Observation deck height: 1,268 feet
Visit:One World Observatory
Why One World Observatory is one of the best: Located on floors 100 to 102 of One World Trade Center, the One World Observatory features various exhibits and restaurants. The elevators will climb you to the top in an astonishing 47 seconds, where you’ll be greeted by 360-degree views of the New York City skyline.
13. Sky100
/granite-web-prod/66/ab/66ab2eea89b742e783b8c36d799969df.jpeg)
Location: Hong Kong
Observation deck height: 1,289 feet
Visit:Sky100
Why Sky100 is one of the best: Located on the 100th floor of the International Commerce Center, Sky100 is a 360-degree indoor observation deck. Here, you can take in expansive views of Hong Kong Island, Victoria Harbor, the Kowloon Peninsula and Tai Mo Shan.
12. Dachstein Stairway to Nothingness
/granite-web-prod/a3/1c/a31c24137b2549f4b72b015ced8721c2.jpeg)
Location: Schladming, Austria
Observation deck height: 1,300 feet
Visit:Dachstein Stairway to Nothingness
Why Dachstein Stairway to Nothingness is one of the best: This suspension bridge and viewing platform will take your bravery to new heights. A walk down 14 narrow steps will lead you down to a glass platform, which juts away from the glacier’s cliff face, offering commanding views of the Australian Alps.
11. The Ledge Chicago
/granite-web-prod/82/c1/82c14a079ad2411a8b3d7e57e770cc52.jpeg)
Location: Chicago, Illinois
Observation deck height: 1,353 feet
Visit:The Ledge Chicago
Why The Ledge Chicago is one of the best: Overlooking the shores of Lake Michigan and offering views spanning up to four states, The Ledge Chicago features all-glass boxes extending 4 feet out from the Willis Tower. Located on the 103rd floor of the famous building, The Ledge is part of the Skydeck observatory.
10. SkyPod CN Tower
/granite-web-prod/e9/24/e924b9cf9e5d472e963073bf89af270a.jpeg)
Location: Toronto, Canada
Observation deck height: 1,466 feet
Visit:SkyPod CN Tower
Why SkyPod CN Tower is one of the best: Located within the CN Tower, which stands at 1,815 feet tall, Skypod offers 100-mile views, revealing Niagara Falls on a clear day. The entirety of the tower sways in the wind, while the observation deck can sway by almost 1.5 feet (yikes!). The antennae on top of SkyPod is longer than a football field and gets struck by lightning an average of 75 times per year.
9. Tokyo Skytree Observation Decks
/granite-web-prod/75/e4/75e457ad35df4f249a434cd0be41706d.jpeg)
Location: Tokyo, Japan
Observation deck height: 1,476 feet
Visit:Tokyo Skytree
Why Tokyo Skytree is one of the best: Standing at 2,080 feet tall, Tokyo Skytree is home to the two highest observation decks in Japan. The decks offer breathtaking, 360-degree views of Tokyo, including a glimpse of Mount Fuji. The Tokyo Skytree Tembo Deck is covered in a massive 16-foot-high glass, while the Tokyo Skytree Tembo Galleria is situated another five floors up and can be accessed via a glass tube that will make you feel like you’re walking in the sky.
8. Skyline460 at Taipei 101
/granite-web-prod/dd/0d/dd0da676a0b94b83831c34ba9de17946.jpeg)
Location: Taipei City, Taiwan
Observation deck height: 1,509 feet
Visit:Skyline460 at Taipei 101
Why Skyline460 at Taipei 101 is one of the best: The tallest and largest LEED-certified building in the world, Taipei 101 features a series of observation decks accessed via pressurized elevators that climb from the fifth floor to the 89th floor in just 37 seconds. Previously closed to the public, the tallest observation deck in the building, Skyline460, can now be enjoyed by all who dare to step onto the outdoor platform for unobstructed 360-degree views of Taipei.
7. SWFC Observatory
/granite-web-prod/87/75/877567e5afbe4fd196881a789d4857ae.jpeg)
Location: Shanghai, China
Observation deck height: 1,555 feet
Visit:SWFC Observatory
Why SWFC Observatory is one of the best: The unique shape of the 1,622-feet-tall Shanghai World Financial Center resembles a bottle opener. The observation deck features a fun observation bridge on the 97th floor, which gives visitors the feeling of floating in midair thanks to its open design roofed with glass.
6. Canton Tower Observation Decks
/granite-web-prod/c4/d7/c4d7bacb70304c979fb6ab845e2d7011.jpeg)
Location: Guangzhou, China
Observation deck height: 1,601 feet
Visit:Canton Tower
Why Canton Tower is one of the best: The 1,982-foot-tall Canton Tower is home to a series of interactive observation decks, including an indoor observatory occupying the top two floors of the tower. Above the indoor observatory is a large, open-air observatory, where the highest Ferris wheel in the world resides, featuring 16 glass bubble gondola-like compartments. Above that, the highest accessible point for tourists is a smaller observation deck that's 1,601 feet high. The deck is set on a ring structure that’s attached to the lower section of the tower's antenna.
5. At the Top, Burj Khalifa
/granite-web-prod/2e/f0/2ef0b3f7039a4b5ca8c82bc86eae7bc1.jpeg)
Location: Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Observation deck height: 1,823 feet
Visit:At the Top, Burj Khalifa
Why At the Top, Burj Khalifa is one of the best: See Dubai from a whole new perspective as you climb up the tallest building in the world at 2,723 feet. The observation deck is perched at 1,823 feet and features top-of-the-line telescopes, Arabic mashrabiya decor and an immersive experience that allows you to feel the glass crack underneath your feet.
4. Zhangjiajie Glass Bridge
/granite-web-prod/a5/f9/a5f9c97b5a9c463383e97771d0c8cb50.jpeg)
Location: Zhangjiajie, China
Observation deck height: 1,180 feet
Visit:Zhangjiajie Glass Bridge
Why Zhangjiajie Glass Bridge is one of the best: Zhangjiajie Glass Bridge is a skywalk bridge that is glass-bottomed and entirely transparent. The deck offers panoramic views of the stunning Zhangjiajie Grand Canyon. Visitors can also go bungee jumping and zip-lining off of it.
3. Top of Shanghai Observatory
/granite-web-prod/71/aa/71aa3d1ddca541cca54733407631cafc.jpeg)
Location: Shanghai, China
Observation deck height: 1,844 feet
Visit:Top of Shanghai Observatory
Why Top of Shanghai Observatory is one of the best: The Top of Shanghai Observatory is located at the Shanghai Tower, the second-tallest building in the world and the tallest in Asia at 2,073 feet. Take the world’s fastest elevator to reach the observation deck, which is located on the 118th floor and offers 360-degree views of the city.
2. Stegastein Viewpoint
/granite-web-prod/17/2f/172f99680e4645d69f767ca92c23a2ad.jpeg)
Location: Flåm, Norway
Observation deck height: 2,133 feet
Visit:Stegastein Viewpoint
Why Stegastein Viewpoint is one of the best: A stunning viewpoint that features panoramic views 2,133 feet above the Aurland Fjord, Stegastein Viewpoint juts out nearly 100 feet from the mountainside. Views offer a gorgeous glimpse of UNESCO World Heritage Site of Næøyfjord.
1. Yuanduan Skywalk
/granite-web-prod/47/06/4706fdfc3d9d43a6874c92d45dad19b6.jpeg)
Location: Chongqing, China
Observation deck height: 2,356 feet
Visit:Yuanduan Skywalk
Why Yuanduan Skywalk is one of the best: Yuanduan, which means “at the end of the clouds,” is an observation deck arching nearly 90 feet out from a cliff's edge in southwestern China's Longgang National Geological Park. Peer down at the glass floor beneath your feet for a view down 2,356 feet to the valley floor. The magnificent construction is designed to withstand an 8.0 magnitude earthquake and a level-14 typhoon.