NYC from above?

[walbergb]

I will be in NYC (family wedding) for almost 2 weeks later this month. I'd like to take some cityscape shots (35 mm & perhaps 4x5) from above, perhaps at sunrise and/or sunset. Can anyone recommend some publicly accessible vantage points (e.g., roof tops) other than the obvious Empire State building? I don't have any particular scenes in mind; and I'm not adverse to asking for permission. I thought it would be better to plan ahead if possible rather than spend time searching out locations.

 

[pthornto]

I've only been to NYC once but really enjoyed the view from the top of 30 Rockefeller Plaza (Top of the Rock). North offers a nice view of Central Park while south gives a great view of the Empire State building and all of Lower Manhattan. Not an aerial view but you would likely get an awesome cityscape from Staten Island or from Brooklyn. I believe the ferry over to Staten Island from the Battery on Lower Manhattan is free.

 

[Newt_on_Swings]

Besides what was mentioned you can try getting shots from bridges such as the brooklyn manhattan or Williamsburg. There is a cheap tram that goes across the river to Roosevelt island that's elevated. The brooklyn heights promenade is a popular location for skyline shots. You can also do a search for rooftop bars with a view there are many. The standard hotel rooftop has a nice view of lower manhattan from the highline. The highline itself is an elevated park great for photos.

 

[Fotoguy20d]

If governors island is open for the season there are great views of lower Manhattan and the statute of liberty (for that matter ride the Staten island ferry). Not aerial but great cityscapes.

 

[CropDusterMan]

Why not contact a NY locations scout? Someone like this...

http://www.nylocations.com/location-scout/

I'd be willing to bet they know exactly the location and have history with
building supers etc. Sometimes it's easier to drop a few bucks to get exactly
what you need.

 

[Saganich]

About a quarter of the way up the Manhattan bridge from the Brooklyn side there is a somewhat permanent hole where lenses can stick through the fence. The The Roosevelt Island tram is a possibility. Liberty State Park in Jersey City.

 

[walbergb]

Thanks everyone. You have given me lots of leads.