Best NYC Skyline Views in Long Island City
Long Island City (LIC) is one of New York City’s fastest-growing neighborhoods, and it also happens to offer some of the most stunning skyline views in all of NYC. From its riverfront parks to rooftop bars and public transit spots, LIC gives both locals and visitors plenty of opportunities to soak in breathtaking views of Manhattan. Here are the best spots in LIC to catch a picture-perfect panorama.
1. Gantry Plaza State Park
Located along the East River waterfront, Gantry Plaza State Park is arguably the crown jewel of LIC when it comes to views. This 12-acre park stretches across the neighborhood’s western edge and offers a full-frontal view of the Midtown skyline—including the Empire State Building, Chrysler Building, and United Nations Headquarters.
Originally a dockyard and industrial site, the park has been thoughtfully transformed, preserving historic gantries and combining them with lush landscaping. Visit at sunset to watch the skyline glow with golden hues, or come at night when Manhattan lights up. The piers and wooden boardwalks make this a favorite for runners, photographers, and couples looking for a scenic stroll.
2. Hunter’s Point South Park
Just south of Gantry Plaza, Hunter’s Point South Park offers another stunning viewpoint (and a bit more green space). Opened in phases over the last decade, this park blends natural wetlands, a central green lawn, and picnic areas with unobstructed views of Manhattan’s East Side. The park’s elevated seating steps offer some of the best spots for panoramic skyline photos, while a nearby dog run and playground make it a great family destination.
From here, you can see landmarks like the Empire State Building, 432 Park Avenue, and One Vanderbilt in clear view, framed by the East River and Roosevelt Island.
3. The NYC Ferry
The NYC Ferry’s East River route makes for an unexpectedly great way to view the city skyline. The ferry stop at Hunter’s Point South is one of the most scenic departure points in the system. Whether you’re commuting or just hopping on for a weekend adventure, the ride from LIC to Manhattan (or further along to Brooklyn and Governors Island) delivers 360-degree views.
4. Rooftop Bars and Restaurants
LIC is home to a growing number of rooftop spots that serve up skyline views alongside craft cocktails and tasty bites. Here are a few not to miss:
The Lost in Paradise Rooftop blends lush, tropical aesthetics with city views. Their brunch service includes bottomless mimosas, while the dinner menu showcases Latin-inspired fare like empanadas and tacos. On weekend nights, DJs take over and the space transforms into a high-energy rooftop lounge perfect for dancing under the stars.
The Vista Sky Lounge at the Four Points by Sheraton offers sweeping views of the Manhattan skyline from its sleek rooftop terrace. It's a popular date-night spot and wedding venue, and their weekend brunch comes with a front-row seat to the Empire State Building and beyond.
The Penthouse at the Ravel Hotel is a standout for views of the Queensboro Bridge and the city lights. Currently open for private events only, the venue provides waterside and rooftop dining in a variety of different spaces.
5. Residential High-Rises and Private Views
Many of LIC’s luxury residential towers, including Lumen, offer expansive views from private balconies, rooftop lounges, and floor-to-ceiling windows. The area’s transformation over the last decade means many buildings were designed with skyline visibility in mind.
Residents of Lumen enjoy direct views of the East River and Manhattan skyline from select units and shared amenity spaces. Whether sipping coffee on a private balcony or catching golden hour from the rooftop terrace, it’s a daily reminder of why LIC has become one of NYC’s most sought-after neighborhoods.