Manhattanhenge in New York
The Manhattan Solstice, or Manhattanhenge, is a breathtaking urban phenomenon that happens when the sun sets precisely in line with the east-west grid of Manhattan’s streets. The sun’s fiery sphere briefly lingers between the skyscrapers, illuminating the city’s avenues with a dazzling golden glow.
What is Manhattanhenge?
The astrophysicist Neil deGrasse Tyson is credited with coining the term.
Stonehenge, the ancient English monument where the sun aligns with the stones on the summer solstice, is referenced in Neil deGrasse Tyson. In contrast to Stonehenge, Manhattanhenge is a contemporary wonder, a stunning byproduct of astronomical mechanics and urban design.
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Manhattanhenge: Why Does It Happen?
The early 19th-century Manhattan street grid is oriented 29 degrees off of true east-west. Consequently, the alignment takes place on two distinct sets of days every year, typically in late May and mid-July, rather than on the equinoxes (when day and night are equal).
On these days, a magnificent corridor of light is created between buildings as the sun’s path crosses the Manhattan grid’s plane just before it sets.
When Does Manhattanhenge Occur in 2025?
You will have four opportunities to see the event in 2025—two in May and two in July. Two categories of viewings exist:
- Full Sun on the Grid: The most striking effect is produced when the full sun is visible between the buildings.
- Half Sun on the Grid: The view is still stunning, but a little more subdued, as the sun is halfway below the horizon.
Manhattanhenge schedule in 2025
| Date | Time (Approx.) | Type |
|---|---|---|
| May 28, 2025 | 8:13 PM EDT | Half Sun |
| May 29, 2025 | 8:14 PM EDT | Full Sun |
| July 12, 2025 | 8:22 PM EDT | Full Sun |
| July 13, 2025 | 8:21 PM EDT | Half Sun |
Note: Depending on your elevation and location, the precise times may change slightly. For the best view, arrive early!
Where Are the Best Places to See It?
Only from streets that run directly across the island, free of parks or strangely angled buildings, can one truly appreciate the magic of Manhattanhenge. Here are a few of the most advantageous viewpoints:
- 14th Street
- 23rd Street
- 34th Street (Bonus: The Empire State Building lines up beautifully here!)
- 42nd Street (Grand Central Station adds to the drama)
- 57th Street
Try to find a spot as far east as possible while still seeing the New Jersey skyline in the distance. Overpasses, bridges, and crosswalks also offer good perspectives, as long as they’re safe to stand on.
Tips for Capturing the Perfect Shot
- Arrive early. Crowds gather fast — especially on popular streets. Show up at least 30–45 minutes before the listed time to claim a good spot.
- Bring a zoom lens. If you’re using a DSLR or mirrorless camera, a 70–200mm lens can help capture the compressed perspective of the sun between the buildings.
- Use a tripod. Especially helpful in lower light conditions as the sun sets.
- Protect your eyes and gear. Don’t stare at the sun directly for long. Use filters if necessary to prevent lens flare or damage.
- Capture reflections. Puddles, car roofs, and glass windows can add depth to your shot.
Is There a Morning Version of Manhattanhenge?
Indeed! Another, less well-known, is the Manhattanhenge sunrise, which occurs when the sun rises in line with the street grid. Early December and early January are when this happens. Early hours, colder temperatures, and fewer clear days make it harder to capture, but the images can be equally breathtaking.
Why Do New Yorkers Love It So Much?
Manhattanhenge has a certain allure. This instance of celestial symmetry serves as a reminder of people’s connection to the cosmos in a city that is frequently linked to chaos and motion. The world appears to stop for a few minutes, with cameras rising in unison, pedestrians gasping, and taxi drivers stopping.
It has evolved into a community event as well. Individuals exchange locations with strangers, mark their calendars, and post advice online. Some see it as a ritual, while others see it as a picture for their bucket list.
The Science and Serendipity Behind It
In addition to serving as a reminder of the tilt of the Earth, the path of the sun, and our place in the solar system, Manhattanhenge is a result of the way Manhattan was built. It makes astronomy accessible to the general public and envelops science in artistic splendor.
Furthermore, Manhattan’s grid was never intended for this, in contrast to Stonehenge, which was probably constructed for celestial alignment. A happy accident that provides New Yorkers with a front-row seat to the cosmos is part of what makes it feel so serendipitous.
Final Thoughts
Manhattanhenge is more than just a stylish Instagram image, regardless of whether you’re a local, a visitor, or a photographer pursuing the golden hour. In one of the busiest cities on earth, it’s a shared experience of awe, beauty, and connection.
So make a note, get your camera, and go west. Don’t pass up the opportunity to see New York from a completely different perspective as the sun only aligns with the city twice a year.
Read also: Quiet Hours and Noise Laws in New York.
