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Manhattanhenge 2025 continues tonight in NYC. Here's where to watch for the best view.

Manhattanhenge is back
Manhattanhenge is back 03:49

One of New York City's coolest views, Manhattanhenge, will be on display again tonight. 

Here's everything to know for the best view of Manhattanhenge 2025.

What is Manhattanhenge?

Manhattanhenge happens when the sunset aligns with NYC's street grid. The sun appears to set perfectly between buildings in the city skyline. 

The phenomenon takes place on four days a year -- two in the spring, and two in the summer. This year, those dates are May 28 and 29, then July 11 and 12. 

The scene typically draws a large crowd of photographers and spectators hoping to snap the perfect shot. 

"Reverse Manhattanhenge" happens in the winter months when the sunrise lines up with the grid.

Best places to see Manhattanhenge

The following Manhattan streets are said to have the best view if you look west at sunset: 

  • 14th Street
  • 23rd Street
  • 34th Street
  • 42nd Street
  • 57th Street

It's also possible to see Manhattanhenge across the East River in Long Island City, Queens.

Thursday's best time to watch will be at 8:12 p.m.

Manhattanhenge weather tonight

jl-fa-manhattanhenge.png
CBS News New York

Viewing conditions were far from ideal Wednesday. Not only was it cloudy, but there were rain showers in the vicinity.

Thursday offers a little bit of hope, with partial clearing on the back edge of a departing weather system. Unfortunately, there will still be a low-end chance of showers in the forecast.

Temperature-wise, expect the upper 60s.

Photos of Manhattanhenge

Check out these photos from the past few years, and share yours with CBS New York using this link here. 

Manhattanhenge in New York City
A view of the sunset from 42nd street during the 'Manhattanhenge' on May 29, 2023 in New York, United States. Lokman Vural Elibol/Anadolu Agency via Getty Images
2022 Manhattanhenge
Two birds fly through the middle of the street as people gather around to watch the sun set during Manhattanhenge in Times Square on July 11, 2022 in New York City. Alexi Rosenfeld / Getty Images
Sunset In New York City
Pedestrians cross a street during a Manhattanhenge on June 4, 2021 in New York City. Liao Pan/China News Service via Getty Images
Sunset Along 42nd Street in New York City
The sun sets along 42nd Street on July 9, 2020 in New York City.  Gary Hershorn / Getty Images
Sunset in New York "Manhattanhenge"
A view of the sunset from 42nd street is seen during the 'Manhattanhenge' on July 12, 2019 in New York, United States. Atilgan Ozdil/Anadolu Agency/Getty Images
A partially cloud obscured Manhattanhenge sun set.
A partially cloud obscured Manhattanhenge sun set. Manhattanhenge is where the rising or setting sun aligns with the street grid in Manhattan, New York City.  Michael Brochstein/SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty Images
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