The New York City skyline is one of the most iconic elements of city. Most guides will tell you that you can see the best views of the city from observatories like One World Trade Observatory or the top of the Empire State Building. But you can see amazing city lights for free all over the city – and across the Hudson River in Jersey City.

One of the best spots to see the NYC skyline is across the Hudson River in Jersey City. Liberty State Park offers a sweeping view of the Hudson River, the Statue of Liberty, and Lower Manhattan.

Also located in Jersey City is the Hudson River Waterfront Walkway, a paved riverside cycling & walking path offering dramatic views of the Manhattan skyline. It is the perfect place to watch the sunset and catch a nighttime view of the Manhattan skyline. The Waterfront Walkway lets you see both Midtown Manhattan with views of the Empire State as well as Lower Manhattan with views of One World Trade Center.

Pier 57 is a long pier located in the Hudson River on 15th Street and Hudson River Park in New York City. It is home to one of New York City’s largest public rooftop parks, which is open to the general public daily all year from 7 AM – 10 PM. The Rooftop Park offers a gorgeous view of Little Island, as well as views of Lower Manhattan and Midtown Manhattan.

The Rooftop Park also offers fantastic views of Jersey City.