New York City is set to witness one of its greatest natural wonders — Manhattanhenge — when the sun sets perfectly along the city’s street grid, casting golden hues through its steel-and-concrete canyons.
For just a handful of evenings each year, Manhattan’s inflexible grid is transforms into the stage for an awe-inspiring union of architecture and celestial activity that draws photographers, stargazers, and curious onlookers to the sidewalks.
Dates to Watch in 2025
According to Associated Press, this year, the initial Manhattanhenge will occur on Wednesday, May 28 at 8:13 p.m., and then another sunset on Thursday, May 29 at 8:12 p.m. The spectacle will recur again on July 11 and 12, offering another opportunity to witness the legendary glow.
The Origin of ‘Manhattanhenge’
The term was coined by renowned astrophysicist Neil deGrasse Tyson in 1997. After visiting England’s Stonehenge as a teenager, Tyson noticed a similar solar alignment in his native city — only this time, it was framed by skyscrapers instead of ancient stones.
On May 28 and July 12, half of the sun will be visible on the horizon at alignment. On May 29 and July 11, the full sun will be framed by the skyscrapers before disappearing behind the Hudson River.
Where to Watch
The most frequented locations include the eastern ends of 14th, 23rd, 34th, 42nd, and 57th Streets. Spectators can also enjoy the view from Long Island City, Queens adds to the experience.
Cities like Chicago, Baltimore, and Toronto have similar events, but Manhattanhenge remains the most iconic.
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