Twice a year, New Yorkers and visitors alike gather in the streets to witness one of the city’s most stunning natural spectacles—Manhattanhenge. This rare event occurs when the setting sun perfectly aligns with Manhattan’s street grid, creating a breathtaking glow between the towering skyscrapers.

What is Manhattanhenge?

Coined by astrophysicist Neil deGrasse Tyson, Manhattanhenge is similar to Stonehenge’s solar alignments, except it happens right in the heart of the city. The sun sets directly in line with Manhattan’s east-west streets, illuminating them in golden light.

When & Where to Watch

Manhattanhenge occurs twice a year, typically in May and July, with two types of views:

Full Sun Manhattanhenge: The entire sun is visible on the horizon between buildings.
Half Sun Manhattanhenge: The sun appears partially above the horizon as it aligns with the grid.

Best Viewing Spots

For the most dramatic view, head to wide cross streets with an unobstructed westward view, such as:

  • 42nd Street (Tudor City Overpass, Grand Central)

  • 34th Street (Empire State Building in frame)

  • 57th Street (Broad intersection for a great perspective)

  • 14th & 23rd Streets (Less crowded but still stunning)

For these photos, I started at 72nd Street (at Columbus Avenue) and then walked up the hill at 79th Street to capture silhouettes of people watching the sunset.

Photography Tips for Capturing Manhattanhenge

  • Arrive early to secure a good spot—crowds gather fast.

  • Use a tripod for steady long-exposure shots.

  • Try different focal lengths to frame the sun against iconic landmarks.

  • Use HDR or bracketing to balance exposure between bright skies and dark streets.

  • Try capturing the viewers’ silhouettes to create a different perspective that tells a story.

Why Manhattanhenge is Special

Beyond its visual beauty, Manhattanhenge is a reminder of how urban design and nature can align in extraordinary ways. It’s a fleeting yet magical moment where New York City’s rigid grid system meets the grandeur of the cosmos. As a New Yorker and sunset chaser, I always look forward to experiencing this twice-yearly event.

If you’re in NYC during Manhattanhenge, don’t miss the chance to witness this urban sunset spectacle. Whether you’re a photographer, a nature lover, or just someone who enjoys breathtaking city views, it’s an event that showcases the magic of New York in a whole new light.