How to skip the queues & get the most out of your viewpoint tickets

Everyone wants what is worth their money. When you are in New York City, you must ensure that you get exactly what you pay for. New York City could get expensive, so you must plan your tour to make the most out of your money. Failure to do so could result in you spending more than expected in NYC. Read on to learn how to skip the queues and get the most out of your viewpoint tickets.

How to skip the queues & get the most out of your viewpoint tickets

Here are a few things to consider to skip the queues and get the most out of your viewpoint tickets.

Book in advance online

All of the top viewpoints in NYC use timed entry tickets; you can book these tickets online. Booking a certain time slot online in advance is important to avoid the long queues at the entrances. You may have to go throuhg the required security checks and wait for the elevator. However, it significantly reduces the total wait time to go to the viewpoint.

Opt for “Fast-Track” or “Skip-the-Line” tickets

If possible, always go for a “fast-track” or “skip-the-line” ticket. It means that you don’t have to wait with the other tourists to get in. Therefore, you can skip the line and go straight to the viewpoint to enjoy the view.

Purchase “VIP” or “Express” passes

“Express” or “VIP” passes are the ultimate option for queue-jumping. Almost all viewpoint attractions offer various premium options for these ticket holders. Below are the premium options you get at some of the best viewpoint attractions in NYC.

• The Edge offers “Priority Access” and “Sunset VIP Experience”, both of which include priority entry.
• The Empire State Building offers an “Express Ticket” that lets you bypass the security lines.
• One World Observatory offers combo tickets that grant access to priority security and elevators.

Use a CityPassone

NYC Tourist Passes offer value when visiting viewpoints in the city. Examples are the New York Pass or CityPass. Check the terms and conditions of each pass to ensure that you will get the most out of your viewpoint tickets. Some passes may require you to book a time slot online. You’ll be able to skip the ticket queue. However, you may still be required to go through the queue for security and elevators, as part of the protocol.

How to get the most out of your viewpoint tickets

Avoid sunset and holidays

Sunset is a peak time for visitors in almost every viewpoint in the world. So, it’s best to avoid visiting these attractions at this time. Instead, opt to go one hour before sunset and stay until the city lights turn on. Most viewpoints allow you to stay as long as you want once you are up there. The exception is the One World Observatory, where there might be a time limit for visitors.

Go early

Going early, as soon as an attraction opens, is usually recommended for the least crowded experience. If an attraction opens at 9:00 AM, be there at that time to avoid the crowds that come in later on. Moreover, for visiting viewpoints, you can also go in the late evening, about an hour before it closes.

Be mindful of the day you are visiting

Most of the attractions are less crowded on weekdays than on the weekend. Therefore, opt to go on a weekend to get the most out of your viewpoint tickets. It’s the time you can enjoy the view leisurely without worrying about the crowds.

Check the Weather

You must go on a clear day for the best views. The best viewpoint tickets allow for flexible entry on another day if the weather is bad on your scheduled day. Moreover, if that is not the case, they may allow for re-booking of the ticket.

The Best Viewpoints in NYC

The Edge

The Edge is one of the best viewpoints in New York City. It has a unique outdoor glass floor that provides a thrilling experience for visitors. The Edge provides excellent views of the Statue of Liberty and the Hudson River.

Top of the Rock

Top of the Rock offers unobstructed views of Central Park and the Empire State Building. Therefore, this is an excellent spot to capture amazing views of the other side of NYC.

SUMMIT One Vanderbilt

SUMMIT One Vanderbilt provides a unique view of NYC. It provides a multi-sensory experience with mirrored floors. Furthermore, this observatory provides stunning views of the Empire State Building and the Chrysler Building.

Empire State Building

The Empire State Building is another excellent viewpoint in NYC. It has two observation decks, one on the 86^th floor and the other on the 102^nd floor.

Tips to get the most out of your viewpoint tickets and your trip to NYC

Start planning to make sure you don’t miss anything

You must start planning early in order to make the most out of your viewpoint tickets. It is general advice you’ll get from anyone regarding travel planning. Everything is huge in NYC, so ensure you make a list of the top 10 must-dos and must-sees.

Use public transportation

Using public transportation helps you save a lot of money when you are in NYC. The metro is the most efficient and cost-effective way to move around the city. You may purchase a 7-day or 30-day MetroCard based on the length of your stay in NYC.

Stay informed of the New York way of living

You must be aware of how things work in NYC when you are staying there for a while. For example, you must carry your international driving license, a copy of your ID and passport, travel adaptors, etc. Winter in NYC is extremely cold, while summer is very hot. So pack your clothes accordingly.

Use discount websites to purchase tickets

Make use of discount websites to purchase tickets for visiting typical tourist attractions. The New York Pass is a popular option that lets you visit many famous attractions in the city. It allows for completely cash-free entry to over 80 attractions at discount prices.

Locate Fifth Avenue to get about anywhere in NYC

Getting around New York could be complicated due to the many streets crisscrossing each other. However, it becomes easy to figure out where you are and how to go somewhere once you are on Fifth Avenue.

Know what is free in NYC

Not everything in NYC comes with a price tag. Some things are free to do, and it is important that you know what these are prior to your NYC tour. The following are some of the things you can experience for free in NYC.

• Grand Central Partnership Walking Tours
• Federal Reserve Bank of New York
• High Line
• State Island Ferry
• New York Public Library

Final Thoughts

These are the best ways that you can skip the queues and get the most out of your viewpoint tickets. Make sure you use these tips to your advantage to have a great vacation in New York City. This way, you will get to enjoy the best of NYC without breaking the bank.