Twice a year, the setting sun aligns perfectly with Manhattan’s streets, creating an awe-inspiring sunset known as Manhattanhenge. This phenomenon occurs when the sun sets directly in line with the Manhattan street grid, casting a radiant glow through the city’s canyons of brick and steel. This event illuminates both the north and south sides of every cross street in Manhattan.
This year, viewers have four opportunities to catch this spectacle:
Wednesday, May 28 at 8:13 pm ET
Thursday, May 29 at 8:12 pm ET
Friday, July 11 at 8:20 pm ET
Saturday, July 12 at 8:22 pm ET
Chief Meteorologist Lee Goldberg notes that clouds and rain might obscure Wednesday’s event, though late breaks in the weather on Thursday could allow for glimpses. For those planning to capture this stunning event, it’s essential to stake out a good spot well before sunset, as Manhattanhenge attracts large crowds.
Best spots for Manhattanhenge
The best streets to witness Manhattanhenge are:
14th Street
23rd Street
34th Street
42nd Street
79th Street
Additionally, two popular viewing spots outside of Manhattan are:
Tudor City Overpass in Manhattan
Hunter’s Point South Park in Long Island City, Queens
To make the most of capturing Manhattanhenge, consider the following tips:
Bring a tripod and a quality camera to manage the low-light conditions effectively. Use a high aperture setting, such as F/16, and the lowest possible ISO setting for your camera. Including a foreground subject, such as a person watching the sunset or a fountain, can create a compelling silhouette and enhance your photograph.
Manhattanhenge offers a unique opportunity to experience New York City in a new light. Plan ahead, choose your vantage point carefully, and enjoy the beautiful alignment of nature with urban sprawl.
