Sky-High Views and City Strolls: Edge NYC, the Vessel and the High Line

A Perfect September Day at Edge NYC, Hudson Yards and the High Line

On a beautiful mid-September day, we set out for an adventure in Manhattan that blended incredible views, modern architecture, art, and a relaxing walk in the city. Our destination: Edge NYC at Hudson Yards followed by a stroll along the High Line.  Just a one hour bus ride from Monroe, New York to Port Authority and then a five minute subway ride on the 7 train and you will find yourself transported to Hudson Yards!

The Vessel in Hudson Yards

Finding the Best Ticket Deal

Before heading out, we compared ticket options online. Surprisingly, Groupon was more expensive than buying tickets directly through the Edge NYC website. Even better—we managed to snag a special deal and got two tickets for the price of one. That made the experience not just memorable, but affordable too.

Edge NYC - 100th floor  

Exploring Hudson Yards and the Vessel

Hudson Yards itself is stunning. The centerpiece is the Vessel, a striking honeycomb-shaped structure that immediately draws your eye. The exciting news is that it has recently reopened to visitors, so if you want to climb its winding staircases and take in unique views of the city from different angles, you can do that too. Even just admiring it from the ground is worthwhile—the whole area feels fresh, modern, and full of energy, with shops, restaurants, and open-air spaces to enjoy.

If you’re trying to save on dining out, there’s even a giant Whole Foods located right behind Hudson Yards, perfect for grabbing quick bites or some “grab n go” food to enjoy outside.

A view of the Vessel with the bright September sun behind it

The Vessel’s honeycomb design has quickly become one of NYC’s most iconic structures.

Views of NYC as far as the eye can see

The Edge Experience

Taking the elevator up to the Edge is a thrill in itself. At over 1,000 feet high, Edge NYC is the highest outdoor sky deck in the Western Hemisphere. Once you step outside onto the platform, the views are breathtaking—stretching across the Hudson River, the skyline, and well into New Jersey.

What surprised us most was how peaceful it felt up there. Even with others around, it’s a space where you can slow down, soak in the scenery, and stay as long as you like.

Jessica posing on the clear glass panel

One of the highlights is the glass floor panel, where you can look straight down 1,131 feet below to the bustling streets of Manhattan.  It's perfect for a dramatic photo (Jessica really got into the spirit) and a little adrenaline rush.

Looking down 1,131 feet through the glass floor—it’s both thrilling and surreal.

City Climb - a $200 photo op

We also watched someone participate in the City Climb, where you strap in and “climb” down the side of the building. At $200, it seemed like a steep price for a staged photo op, so we were happy just observing from the safety of the deck.

Walking the High Line with Edge in the background

Onto the High Line

The great thing about Hudson Yards is that you can walk right onto the High Line from there. This elevated park, built on old rail tracks, is full of charm and creativity. One of the most unique aspects is the rotating art installations. Last year, we saw a giant pink tree sculpture, and this year it’s an enormous pigeon perched along the path. The art always makes the walk feel new and surprising.

The giant pigeon sculpture in 2025

The High Line always surprises with its art installations—this year, an enormous pigeon.

As we strolled, the September weather was perfect—warm with a crisp breeze, the kind of day that makes being outside in the city an absolute pleasure.

The High Line is a public park built on a 1.45 mile long elevated rail structure that runs from 34th Street down to 14th Street on the West Side.

The bright pink tree art installation in 2024

Last year we saw this gigantic hot pink tree art installation, which has since been replaced with the pigeon.

Wrapping Up the Day

Between the sky-high serenity of the Edge, the architectural beauty of the Vessel, and the artistic, nature-filled walk along the High Line, our day was a perfect mix of adventure and relaxation. Hudson Yards has so much to offer, and combining it with the High Line made for an unforgettable outing.

If you’re looking for a quintessential New York experience that blends modern marvels with creative outdoor spaces, a day at Edge NYC and the High Line is hard to beat.

Mural along the High Line

A view of the Chrysler Building from Edge

A stunning view of the West Side of Manhattan

Mom and Daughter pose on the Edge

Who's Afraid of Heights? Not Me!

Cristina Kiesel posing on the glass floor of Edge NYC