Manhattanhenge: The Ultimate Guide to NYC's Most Stunning Sunset Event

New York City sunsets are a breathtaking sight year-round, but Manhattanhenge offers something uniquely spectacular. Twice a year, the sun aligns perfectly with the city's iconic grid of streets, casting an awe-inspiring beam of light between Manhattan's towering skyscrapers. This rare event draws photographers, locals, and tourists alike, all eager to capture the sun as it sets down the city's streets.

What is Manhattanhenge?

Manhattanhenge occurs when the setting sun aligns perfectly with Manhattan’s east-west streets, creating a spectacular visual effect. The term was coined by astrophysicist Neil deGrasse Tyson, and it takes place twice a year: once in May and again in July. However, the magic isn’t limited to just those two dates. From May through July, the sun crosses low on the horizon, offering stunning golden hour moments nearly every evening.

The Manhattanhenge effect—that golden light streaming down the streets—can be experienced all season long. The sun aligns with streets like 14th Street, 23rd Street, 34th Street, and more, creating an almost cinematic experience as the city is bathed in warm hues of orange, pink, and gold.

When is Manhattanhenge in 2025?

To catch the full Manhattanhenge experience in 2025, mark these important dates on your calendar:

• Manhattanhenge May 2025: May 29th (Sunset at 8:17 PM)

• Manhattanhenge July 2025: July 12th (Sunset at 8:20 PM)

While these dates represent the peak moments when the sun aligns perfectly with the grid, you can witness the "Manhattanhenge effect" for days before and after these dates. Keep an eye on the sunset time to capture the light at its best.

Best Locations to View Manhattanhenge

To get the best view of Manhattanhenge, head to one of these famous east-west streets in Manhattan. These streets offer unobstructed views of the sunset as it aligns with the city grid:

• 14th Street

• 23rd Street

• 34th Street

• 42nd Street (a popular favorite)

• 57th Street

These streets are some of the most photogenic and are known for offering the best vantage points during Manhattanhenge.

What Gear Should You Use to Photograph Manhattanhenge?

The best lens for capturing Manhattanhenge depends on your personal style. Here are some recommendations:

• Wide-Angle Lens (16-35mm or 24mm): Ideal for capturing the expansive view of the sun setting between the skyscrapers and framing the city’s grid.

• Zoom Lens (100-400mm or 24-70mm): Perfect for getting closer shots of the sun itself, especially as it dips lower on the horizon. This also allows you to capture the crowd and the golden light up close.

Experience the Magic of Manhattanhenge

Whether you’re a professional photographer or simply someone who enjoys a beautiful sunset, Manhattanhenge is a must-see event in New York City. With its rare alignment of the sun and the city’s street grid, it’s a sight that everyone should witness at least once in their lifetime.