Four times a year, everything comes into alignment—literally—when the setting sun lines up perfectly with the east-west corridors in Manhattan. This phenomenon, dubbed Manhattanhenge, produces some of the most breathtaking sunsets in New York, or anywhere for that matter, all thanks to the city’s grid system!

Unlike Stonehenge, the ancient wonder of the world, New York wasn’t built around the cycles of the sun. Manhattanhenge is simply a magical accident. The event will occur for the first time this year on Memorial Day! Read on to find out when and where to catch it in 2023.

Everything to Know About Manhattanhenge 2023

When to See Manhattanhenge 2023

Manhattanhenge typically happens four times between May and July each year.

May Dates
Monday, May 29, 2023: Catch a half sun view at 8:13 pm
Tuesday, May 30, 2023: Catch a full sun view at 8:12 pm

July Dates
Wednesday, July 12, 2023: Catch a half sun view at 8:20 pm
Thursday, July 13, 2023: Catch a full sun view at 8:21 pm

Pro-tip: both evenings during the spring and summer events will produce gorgeous sunsets, but the half sun view is recommended for better photographs!

The Best Viewing Spots to See Manhattanhenge 2023

Any east-west corridor above 14th Street and below 155th Street in Manhattan will give you a good glimpse, but the following locations have optimal sightlines:

• 14th Street
• 23rd Street
• 34th Street
• 42nd Street
• 57th Street
• Tudor City Overpass, Manhattan
• Hunter's Point South Park in Long Island City, Queens

Pro-tip: 42nd Street is the most popular viewing location. If you want a bit of a thinner crowd, head up to 72nd Street.

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