With City Climb, You Can Scale a Manhattan Skyscraper

If you think looking down at Manhattan’s concrete jungle through the glass floor at the Edge is thrilling, get this: starting on November 9, you’ll be able to climb up the side of the building on which it stands. At 1,131 feet high, the Edge at Hudson Yards is the highest outdoor observation deck in the Western Hemisphere. City Climb claims to be the highest open-air building ascent in the world.

Those who dare to do the climb will be suited up with a harness for the 90-minute adventure. “Everyone gets a thorough briefing, and our guides harness them onto the course with two cables that are attached to a trolley,” Cassie Davidson, the vice president of marketing at Hudson Yards Experiences, told Architectural Digest. “Climbers are very secure.”

Climbers start at Base Camp and climb 32 steps up to the Cliff, which is 1,190 high, before continuing their ascent on the Stair, a series of 161 steps on a nearly 45-degree incline. Upon reaching the Apex, climbers can actually lean out over the platform for death-defying views. Upon completion of the climb, participants can celebrate with a glass of Champagne at the Champagne bar and linger at the Edge to soak in the panoramic views.

“The architectural details in New York City’s buildings make our skyline one of the most instantly recognizable in the world, but until now the views from these iconic capstones have been reserved for cinematic superheroes,” Michael Gilbane, Senior Vice President of Related Companies, said in a statement. “We are exceedingly proud of the team who master-minded this entertainment marvel offering the world an unparalleled perspective of the City.”

Though City Climb is sure to be the most adrenaline-pumping ascent in New York City, it’s not the only building you can scale for panoramic views. There are a handful of historic buildings you can legally climb, including the Empire State Building and the Cathedral of Saint John the Divine in Morningside Heights. There are also a number of sky-high observation decks, including the just-opened SUMMIT at One Vanderbilt.

City Climb costs $185 and includes entry to the Edge and a video of the climb. Participants must present proof of Covid-19 vaccination (at least one shot).

Next, read about the best observation decks in NYC!