When and how to see Manhattanhenge in New York?
Have you heard of Manhattanhenge? This natural phenomenon lights up New York's streets! Here are my tips for being in the right place at the right time.
What is Manhattanhenge?
- If you love sunsets, you’ll love Manhattanhenge! Manhattanhenge is a natural phenomenon when the sun sets in perfect alignment with Manhattan‘s street grid, creating a brilliant beam of light that travels across the city from west to east. It’s a rare and magical moment.
- The name combines Manhattan with Stonehenge, the famous megalithic site in the United Kingdom known for its mysterious stone alignments.
- This phenomenon occurs four times each year, in late May and mid-July. The chief astronomer at the American Museum of Natural History calculates the exact times and updates the schedule annually.
Upcoming Manhattanhenge dates in 2026 and 2027
There are two types of Manhattanhenge: one where half the sun touches the horizon, and a more dramatic version where the entire sun touches the horizon. Here are the dates and times for 2026 and 2027, along with diagrams of both phenomena:
- Half-sun Manhattanhenge:
- May 28, 2027 at 8:14 pm.
- July 12, 2026 at 8:21 pm.
- Full-sun Manhattanhenge, with the entire sun touching the horizon:
- May 29, 2027 at 8:13 pm.
- July 11, 2026 at 8:20 pm.
These dates and times come from the American Museum of Natural History. We update this page each year based on the museum’s announcement.
Where to see Manhattanhenge in New York
- You must be on an east-west street with a clear, unobstructed horizon to see Manhattanhenge. The American Museum of Natural History particularly recommends 14th, 23rd, 34th, 42nd, and 57th Streets.
- Two streets stand out: 34th Street for its view of the Empire State Building, and 42nd Street for its perspective on the Chrysler Building. Another excellent spot is Gantry Plaza State Park in Queens, directly across from 42nd Street.
- You won’t see the phenomenon south of 14th Street, such as in SoHo or the Financial District. Similarly, the effect is much less impressive north of 57th Street due to Columbus Circle and Central Park.
- Tip: Arrive about 30 minutes before the time listed by the American Museum of Natural History. The times given mark when the sun actually touches the horizon, but the phenomenon begins earlier as the sun appears between the buildings. Also, thousands of people gather in the streets, and police manage the crowds.
Manhattanhenge in New York: Photo Gallery
